Gear-changing device for a motor vehicle comprising a multi-function component configured to act as a stop for at least one bearing and to allow the circulation of a fluid

Abstract

TITLE: Gear-shifting device for a motor vehicle comprising a multi-function member configured to act as a stop for at least one bearing and to allow the circulation of a fluid. Gear-shifting device (2) for a vehicle comprising a bearing (42) disposed in a housing (31), a lubricating fluid supply device (5) (F1) comprising a cavity (51) disposed in fluidic connection with said housing (31), and a multi-function member (6) configured to close the cavity (51) and comprising at least one orifice (63) for the passage of the lubricating fluid (F1) opening into the cavity (51), said member being disposed so as to act as a stop for the bearing (42) along one direction. Figure of the abstract: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Gear-changing device for a motor vehicle comprising a multi-functional element configured to act as a stop for at least one bearing and to allow the circulation of a fluid

[0001] The invention relates to a gear-changing device, in other words a gearbox or reduction gear, for a motor vehicle comprising a multi-function component configured to act as a thrust bearing for at least one bearing and to allow the circulation of a fluid, in particular a lubricating fluid. The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising said device. The invention further relates to a multi-function component for a gear-changing device and / or for a vehicle according to the invention. Finally, the invention relates to a method for mounting the gear-changing device.

[0002] In the automotive industry, the proper functioning and long-term reliability of gear-changing devices, such as gearboxes or reducers, requires appropriate and controlled lubrication. The components must be lubricated regularly and in a controlled manner. It is known that the distribution of the lubricating fluid in the gear-changing device can be carried out via a collection and distribution trough, allowing the circulation and distribution of the lubricating fluid to various points in the device, particularly at bearings and gears. However, such distribution is achieved without real localized control of the fluid flow rate. An excessive quantity of lubricating fluid can then circulate locally within the gear-changing device, resulting in reduced efficiency or even leaks.

[0003] Furthermore, within the gear-shifting mechanism, the various drive train lines may include different types of bearings depending on the requirements. In particular, the use of bearings, for example cylindrical roller bearings, entails constraints for securing said bearing relative to a housing of the gear-shifting mechanism in order to prevent its movement during vehicle operation. The installation of retaining elements for such a bearing can be complex depending on the available space in its surrounding environment.

[0004] The invention falls within this context and aims to provide a multifunctional component and a gear-changing device comprising such a component enabling the resolution the disadvantages outlined above at a lower cost and in a simpler way of implementation.

[0005] The invention relates to a gear-changing device for a motor vehicle comprising a casing delimiting an internal volume, a transmission system comprising at least one pinion and one bearing, capable of being moved in rotation about a first axis, a lubrication fluid supply device, configured to allow the distribution of said fluid in the casing, and a multi-function component: - the bearing being disposed in a housing and the supply device comprising a cavity disposed in fluidic connection with said housing and open on one side suitable for receiving at least a portion of the lubricating fluid; - the multi-function component comprising a first portion configured to close the open side of the cavity and comprising at least one orifice for the passage of the lubricating fluid opening into the cavity, the first portion being arranged opposite the bearing so as to form a stop for said bearing along one direction of the first axis; - the multi-function component comprising a second portion connected to the first portion and adapted to receive a means for fixing the multi-function component to the housing.

[0006] In particular, the first portion of the multifunction component is disposed in contact with the housing and / or the feeding device. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion is flat or substantially flat.

[0007] Optionally, the multi-function organ includes a metallic material, such as steel or aluminum, or a combination of a metallic material and a plastic material.

[0008] According to exemplary embodiments, the second portion and the first portion: - form a single unit; and / or - are flat or substantially flat and lie within a common plane.

[0009] Optionally, the gear-changing device further includes a means for fixing the multifunction member, the second portion including a hole suitable for receiving said fixing means, said hole being offset along at least one direction relative to the orifice and / or relative to the cavity.

[0010] In particular, the cavity is delimited by at least one edge, said edge and / or the housing comprising at least one groove delimiting a recess suitable for receiving at least part of the multifunction organ.

[0011] Optionally, the supply device includes a lubrication fluid supply chute, disposed in the internal volume and comprising at least one outlet cannula, configured to be disposed in the orifice of the multifunction organ so as to distribute the lubrication fluid in the cavity.

[0012] The invention also extends to a motor vehicle comprising a gear-changing device according to the invention. For example, such a vehicle comprises a lubrication fluid supply circuit arranged in fluidic connection with the internal volume of the crankcase and arranged in fluidic connection with the cavity via the orifice of the multifunction component.

[0013] The invention further extends to a multifunctional component for a gear-changing device according to the invention, comprising: - a first portion, configured to close a circulation cavity for a lubricating fluid and comprising at least one orifice for the passage of the lubricating fluid opening into said cavity, the first portion being configured to be positioned opposite a bearing so as to form a stop; - a second portion connected to the first portion and suitable for receiving a means of fixing the multifunction component onto a housing.

[0014] The invention also relates to a method for assembling a gear-changing device according to the invention, comprising: - the positioning of the bearing in the housing; then - the positioning and fixing of the multi-function component so that the first portion extends in relation to the bearing in order to form a stop for it along at least one direction and so that the first portion closes the cavity, the opening leading into said cavity; - the positioning of the pinion, a pinion shaft being connected to the bearing and the multi-function component being partly interposed between a part of the bearing and a part of the pinion.

[0015] Other details, features and advantages will become clearer upon reading the detailed description given below, which is by way of example and not limitation, in relation to the various embodiments illustrated in the following figure:

[0016] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an example embodiment of a vehicle comprising a gear-changing device according to the invention.

[0017] Fig. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional representation of the gear-changing device.

[0018] Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective representation of part of a transmission system of the gear-changing device illustrating a fluid supply device and a multi-function component.

[0019] Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective representation of the gear change device illustrated in Fig. 3 in the absence of a chute for the fluid supply device.

[0020] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation illustrating the multifunctional organ within the gear-changing device and relative to a bearing of the transmission system.

[0021] Fig. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional representation of the gear-changing device.

[0022] Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective representation of the multifunctional organ.

[0023] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an example of an embodiment of a motor vehicle 1 comprising a gear-changing device 2, such as a gearbox or a reduction gear. The vehicle 1 considered is, for example, a motor vehicle 1 with a thermal or hybrid engine comprising a thermal powertrain, not detailed. Optionally, the vehicle 1 further comprises a supply circuit Cl for a lubricating fluid Fl, for example an oil, suitable for lubricating and / or providing thermal management for the gear-changing device 2.

[0024] By convention in the description below, the terms "first", "second" are intended to distinguish elements and not to define a hierarchy within said elements.

[0025] Generally, the gear-changing device 2 comprises a housing 3 delimiting an internal volume 30, a transmission system 4, a lubrication fluid supply device 5, and a multi-function component 6 according to the invention. It is understood that the following description applies to a multi-function component 6 included in a gear-changing device 2 according to the invention and to a multi-function component 6 as such, intended for a gear-changing device 2.

[0026] The housing 3 is an enclosure, also referred to as a casing, of the gear-changing device 2, delimiting the internal volume 30. In particular, the housing 3 comprises a metallic material, for example, an alloy based on aluminum, magnesium, and / or steel. Preferably, the housing 3 comprises two half-housings, or half-shells, suitable for being fastened together. In a known manner, the half-housings are fastened to each other by means of a fastening means 7 comprising, for example, a screw-nut system or a screw cooperating with a threaded hole provided in one of the half-housings.

[0027] The transmission system 4 comprises a pinion 41 and a bearing 42, capable of being rotated about a first axis 400. In particular, the bearing 42 considered is a cylindrical roller bearing, as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. It is understood, however, that the invention can be extended to other types of bearings. Conventionally, the bearing 42 comprises an inner ring 43 and a outer ring outer 44, centered on a common axis, for example centered on the first axis 400. Said bearing 42 is disposed at a first end 40a of the pinion 41 such that said bearing 42 is interposed between at least a portion of the pinion 41 and the housing 3 along at least one direction. In particular, the pinion 41 is connected to the bearing 42 by means of a shaft 45 carrying and / or comprising the pinion 41, said shaft 45 extending through the bearing 42, in particular so as to be connected to the inner ring of the bearing 42.

[0028] In particular, the gear-changing device 2 includes at least one housing 31 configured to receive at least part of the bearing 42. According to an illustrated example, the housing 31 is delimited by edges 32 extending from an internal surface 33 of the casing 3, facing the internal volume 30, such that said edges 32 and the casing 3 are formed from the material. Alternatively, the housing 31 is delimited by edges 32 attached and fixed, for example by welding, to the internal surface 33 of the casing 3.

[0029] It should be noted that the transmission system 4 can conventionally comprise a plurality of kinematic chain lines, additional sprockets, and additional bearings 42', which are not detailed. Also, the sprocket 41 under consideration is connected to the bearing 42 and to at least one of the additional bearings 42'. The bearing 42, also referred to as the first bearing 42, is located at the first end 40a of the sprocket 41, while the additional bearing 42', or second bearing 42', is located at a second end 40b of the sprocket 41, opposite the first end 40a. For example, the second bearing 42' is a ball bearing.

[0030] The supply device 5 is configured to allow the circulation and distribution of the lubricating fluid Fl in the crankcase 3. In particular, it allows the distribution of said fluid to different points in the crankcase 3 and the transmission system 4.

[0031] The supply device 5 comprises a cavity 51 open on one side, adapted to receive at least a portion of the lubricating fluid FL. The open side is, in particular, oriented towards the pinion 41 and towards the internal volume 30 of the housing 3. The cavity 51 is adapted to receive, store, and distribute at least a portion of the lubricating fluid FL. For example, it is delimited by at least one edge 52, in particular a continuous edge. Preferably, said edge 52 originates from the internal surface 33 of the housing 3. Alternatively, said edge 52 is added and fixed, for example by welding, to the internal surface 33 of the housing 3. The cavity 51 is thus delimited by at least one edge 52 and by the internal surface 33 of the housing 3, the latter forming a bottom of the cavity 51. The open edge 52 is then opposite the bottom of the cavity 51 in at least one direction.

[0032] The cavity 51 is also arranged in fluidic connection with the housing 31 configured to receive the bearing 42. At least one edge 52 of the cavity 51 is thus connected to the edges 32 of the housing 31 and the cavity 51 opens onto said housing 31 at the level of at least one opening 53. The lubricating fluid Fl poured into the cavity 51 is thus able to be distributed into the housing 31 so as to allow the lubrication of the bearing 42 over time.

[0033] In particular, the lubrication fluid supply device 5 Fl further comprises a lubrication fluid supply chute 54 Fl disposed within the internal volume 30. The chute 54 is a hollow part delimiting an intermediate volume 540 within the internal volume 30 and forming a conduit suitable for distributing the lubrication fluid Fl to various defined points in the housing 3. For example, the chute 54 is made of a plastic material, in particular a reinforced one, such as polyamide 66 reinforced with 35% glass fibers, known as PA66 GG35, or of a metallic material. The chute 54 comprises at least one outlet nozzle 55, configured to distribute the lubrication fluid Fl into the cavity 51.

[0034] The multi-function member 6 is an added part, for example at least partly made of a metallic material, such as steel or aluminum, so as to withstand repeated stresses and high temperatures within the gear-changing device 2. Alternatively or additionally, the multi-function member 6 may be at least partly made of a plastic material, in particular a plastic material suitable for resisting mechanical stresses or strains, for example related to its fixing, and suitable for withstanding the operating temperatures of the gear-changing device 2.

[0035] The multi-function member 6 comprises a first portion 61, configured to close the cavity 51. The first portion 61 of the multi-function member 6 is shaped and dimensioned so as to close the open side of the cavity 51. The first portion 61 is configured to extend in relation to the cavity 51 and at least a portion of at least one edge 52 of the cavity 51. It extends in contact with at least a portion of at least one edge 52. The first portion 61 of the multi-function member 6 thus provides at least a partially watertight closure of the cavity 51, thereby limiting, or even preventing, leaks of lubricating fluid Fl during the filling of said cavity 51.

[0036] Optionally, the multifunction member 6 includes a sealing means, not shown. The sealing means is, for example, disposed at the periphery of at least a portion of the multifunction member 6, in particular at the periphery of at least a portion of the first portion 61, and / or at a first face 62 of the multifunction member 6, configured to face the cavity 51 and at least one edge 52 within the gear-changing device 2. The sealing means is, for example, a silicone cord and is configured to extend into contact with at least part of at least one edge 52.

[0037] The first portion 61 of the multi-function organ 6 comprises at least one orifice 63 for the passage of the lubricating fluid Fl opening into the cavity 51. The at least one orifice 63 is through-hole and extends opposite the cavity 51. The at least one orifice 63 is configured to ensure the fluid connection between the intermediate volume 540 of the trough 54 and the cavity 51. To this end, the at least one orifice 63 is adapted to receive the at least one cannula 55 of the trough 54. Said cannula 55 then extends through the at least one orifice 63 and opens into the cavity 51 so as to distribute the lubricating fluid Fl into the cavity 51. Alternatively, the at least one orifice 63 is configured to be positioned opposite said cannula 55.

[0038] The first portion 61 is also arranged so as to extend at least partially opposite the bearing 42, particularly here the first bearing 42, along at least one direction. In this case, the first portion 61 extends opposite the bearing 42, specifically the outer ring 44 of said bearing 42, and is configured to form a stop for said bearing 42 along one direction of the first axis 400. The multi-function member 6 thus ensures that the bearing 42 is properly held in the housing 31 and prevents it from moving during the operation of the gear-changing device 2.

[0039] Optionally but preferably, the first portion 61 of the multifunction organ 6 is flat or substantially flat so as to allow optimized contact between said organ and at least one edge 52 of the cavity 51, and by extension, optimized sealing of the contact interface between at least one edge 52 of the cavity 51 and the first portion 61 of the multifunction organ 6.

[0040] The multifunction component 6 includes a second portion 64 connected to the first portion 61 and adapted to receive at least one fastening means 7 for attaching the multifunction component 6 to the housing 3. The second portion 64 includes, in particular, a through hole 60 adapted to receive said fastening means 7. As indicated above, said fastening means 7 is, for example, a screw. The fastening means 7 advantageously allows the multifunction component 6 to be at least partially pressed against at least one edge 52 of the cavity 51. In particular, the housing 3 includes a threaded hole adapted to receive the fastening means 7. Also, when the multifunction component 6 is arranged in the gear-changing device 2, the hole 60 of the second portion 64 extends opposite said threaded hole.

[0041] The hole 60, and in particular the second portion 64, is offset along at least one direction relative to the cavity 51. In this way, the attachment of the multifunction component 6 is achieved at a distance from the cavity 51 so as not to impede its operation. For example, in order to limit the material required and reduce the costs of the component multifunctional 6, this one has an "L" shape, or substantially an "L" shape, the second portion 64 forming part of the base of said "L".

[0042] Optionally but preferably, the hole 60, and in particular the second portion 64, is offset along at least one direction relative to the at least one orifice 63 of the first portion 61 of the multifunctional organ 6. In particular, the hole 60 is offset along two directions orthogonal to the direction of the first axis 400, so that the fixing means 7 disposed in the hole 60 does not hinder the positioning of the at least one cannula 55 relative to the at least one orifice 63.

[0043] Preferably, the second portion 64 and the first portion 61 form a single unit, meaning that they cannot be separated or dissociated without resulting in damage to, or even destruction of, the multifunction component 6. Alternatively, but preferably, the first portion 61 and the second portion 64 of the multifunction component 6 are flat or substantially flat. In particular, the first portion 61 and the second portion 64 lie in the same plane so as to optimize the sealing of the cavity 51 when the fastening means 7 is tightened.

[0044] Optionally, at least one edge 52 and / or the housing 3 includes at least one groove 65 defining a recess suitable for receiving at least part of the multifunction member 6. Said groove 65 is complementary in shape to at least a part of the multifunction member 6, for example to at least a part of the first portion 61 of the multifunction member 6. Such a principle advantageously allows for a reduction in the bulk generated along the direction of the first axis 400 by the stacking of at least one edge 52 of the cavity 51 and the multifunction member 6.

[0045] Thus, when the gear-changing device 2 is in operation and the lubrication of said device is activated, the lubricating fluid Fl circulates in the supply circuit Cl. It is brought to an inlet in the housing 3 (not shown), which is arranged in fluidic connection with the channel 54, particularly the intermediate volume 540 delimited by the channel 54. The lubricating fluid Fl circulates in the channel 54, which is adapted to convey and distribute it to various points of the gear-changing device 2. In particular, the lubricating fluid Fl is brought to at least one cannula 55 arranged in fluidic connection with the cavity 51. The lubricating fluid Fl passes through the cannula 55 and through the multi-function component 6 via the cannula 55 and at least one orifice 63.A portion of the lubricating fluid Fl is poured into and stored in cavity 51, then directed towards housing 31 so as to come into contact with the bearing 42 located therein and thus lubricate it. Specifically, the lubrication of said bearing 42 is then achieved by splashing or at least partial immersion. The multi-functional component 6 advantageously reduces leakage. The lubricating fluid Fl is contained within cavity 51, in particular to reduce the leakage rate of said fluid. Sealing cavity 51 also limits the volume of lubricating fluid Fl that accumulates.

[0046] Furthermore, optionally, a dimension, in particular a diameter of at least one orifice 63 and / or of at least one cannula 55 is adapted according to a desired flow rate of lubricating fluid Fl, for example according to a type of transmission system 4 and / or a model of gear change device 2 considered.

[0047] As indicated above, it is understood that the preceding description extends to a multi-function organ 6 intended for a gear-changing device 2 according to the invention.

[0048] The present invention also extends to a method of assembling the gear-changing device 2. Said method includes positioning the bearing 42, here the first bearing 42, in the housing 3. In particular, said bearing 42 is disposed in the housing 31.

[0049] Next, the method comprises positioning and securing the multifunction member 6. The multifunction member 6 is arranged so that the first portion 61 extends opposite the bearing 42 to form a stop for the bearing along at least one direction, here along the direction defined by the first axis 400, and so that the first portion 61 closes the cavity 51. The bearing 42 is then interposed between the multifunction member 6 and at least a portion of the internal surface 33 of the housing 3. The first portion 61 thus extends opposite the cavity 51, as described above, in particular in contact with at least one edge 52 delimiting the cavity 51. At least one orifice 63 is arranged so as to open into said cavity 51. Optionally, the multifunction member 6 is arranged in the recess when the gear-changing device 2 is equipped with it.In addition, the second portion 64 of the gear-changing member is arranged so as to be offset relative to the first cavity 51 along at least one direction. The multifunction member 6 is fixed by means of the fastening means 7 disposed in the second portion 64, in particular by tightening said means, so that the first portion 61 is pressed against the cavity 51, particularly against at least one edge 52 of the cavity 51, in order to form an interface that is at least partially sealed or substantially sealed, limiting, or even preventing, leakage of the lubricating fluid FL.

[0050] The method then comprises positioning the pinion 41, the shaft 45 comprising and / or carrying the pinion 41 being connected to the bearing 42, here the first bearing 42 being disposed at the first end 40a of the pinion 41, and the multi-function member 6 being partially interposed between a portion of the bearing 42 and a portion of the pinion 41. Optionally, at least one additional bearing 42' may be disposed on the second end 40b of the pinion 41.

[0051] The present invention thus proposes a gear-changing device comprising a multi-functional component capable of supporting a bearing and allowing at least partial regulation of the flow of a lubricating fluid around said bearing. The invention advantageously optimizes the lubrication of the transmission system while preventing the bearing from shifting, and at a lower cost.

[0052] The present invention cannot, however, be limited to the means and methods described and illustrated herein and it also extends to any equivalent means or method and to any technically operative combination of such means insofar as they ultimately fulfill the functionalities described and illustrated in this document.

Claims

Demands

1. Gear-changing device (2) for a motor vehicle (1) comprising a housing (3) delimiting an internal volume (30), a transmission system (4) comprising at least one pinion (41) and a bearing (42), capable of being moved in rotation about a first axis (400), a lubrication fluid (Fl) supply device (5), configured to allow the distribution of said fluid in the housing (3), and a multi-function element (6): - the bearing (42) being disposed in a housing (31) and the supply device (5) comprising a cavity (51) disposed in fluidic connection with said housing (31) and open on one side capable of receiving at least a portion of the lubrication fluid (Fl);- the multi-function member (6) comprising a first portion (61) configured to close the open side of the cavity (51) and comprising at least one orifice (63) for the passage of the lubricating fluid (Fl) opening into the cavity (51), the first portion (61) being disposed opposite the bearing (42) so as to form a stop for said bearing (42) along one direction of the first axis (400); - the multi-function member (6) comprising a second portion (64) connected to the first portion (61) and adapted to receive a means for fixing (7) the multi-function member (6) to the housing (3).

2. Gear-changing device (2) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first portion (61) of the multifunction member (6): - is disposed in contact with the housing (3) and / or the supply device (5); and / or - is flat or substantially flat.

3. Gear-changing device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the multi-function member (6) comprises a metallic material, such as steel or aluminum, or a combination of a metallic material and a plastic material.

4. Gear-changing device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion (64) and the first portion (61): - form a single unit; and / or - are flat or substantially flat and lie within a common plane.

5. Gear-changing device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a means for fixing (7) the multifunction member (6), the second portion (64) comprising a hole (60) adapted to receive said fixing means (7), said hole (60) being offset along at least one direction relative to the orifice (63) and / or relative to the cavity (51).

6. Gear-changing device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cavity (51) is delimited by at least one edge (52), said edge (52) and / or the housing (3) comprising at least one groove (65) delimiting a recess suitable for receiving at least part of the multifunction member (6).

7. Gear change device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the supply device (5) comprises a lubrication fluid (Fl) supply chute (54), disposed in the internal volume (30) and comprising at least one outlet cannula (55), configured to be disposed in the orifice (63) of the multifunction member (6) so as to distribute the lubrication fluid (Fl) into the cavity (51).

8. Motor vehicle (1) comprising a gear-changing device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

9. Multifunctional member (6) for a gear-changing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: - a first portion (61), configured to close a cavity (51) for the circulation of a lubricating fluid (Fl) and comprising at least one orifice (63) for the passage of the lubricating fluid (Fl) opening into said cavity (51), the first portion (61) being configured to be disposed opposite a bearing (42) so as to form a stop thereon, - a second portion (64) connected to the first portion (61) and adapted to receive a means for fixing (7) the multifunctional member (6) to a housing (3).

10. A method for assembling a gear-changing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: - positioning the bearing (42) in the housing (3); then - positioning and securing the multifunction component (6) so that the first portion (61) extends opposite the bearing (42) in order to form a stop for it along at least one direction and so that the first portion (61) closes the cavity (51), the orifice (63) opening into said cavity (51); - the positioning of the pinion (41), a shaft (45) of the pinion (41) being connected to the bearing (42) and the multi-function element (6) being partly interposed between a part of the bearing (42) and a part of the pinion (41).

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