Tolerance ring assembly

Abstract

To provide a tolerance ring assembly working as a torque limiter having high abrasion resistance.SOLUTION: A tolerance ring assembly 1 includes a tolerance ring 2 including projections 5 projecting in a radial direction. The tolerance ring assembly 1 includes a slide ring 6 opposite to the tolerance ring 2 in the radial direction on a radially opposite side of the projections 5. The tolerance ring assembly 1 includes an engagement part 9 engaging two components of the tolerance ring 2 with the slide ring 6 to regulate movement of the two components in a circumferential direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tolerance ring assembly that is disposed, for example, between a shaft member and an outer circumferential member that surrounds the shaft member in the circumferential direction. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there has been provided a tolerance ring that is press-fitted between a shaft member and an outer peripheral member that surrounds the shaft member in the circumferential direction. The tolerance ring has a ring body formed from a strip member in a ring shape. The tolerance ring has a plurality of protrusions that protrude radially from the ring body. The tolerance ring is made of a material having spring properties, for example, a metal material such as carbon steel. When the tolerance ring is press-fitted between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member, the protrusions are deformed. Therefore, the tolerance ring is tightly fitted between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member. This allows torque to be transmitted between the parts of the shaft member and the outer peripheral member via the tolerance ring. When the torque to be transmitted exceeds a predetermined threshold value (slip torque), slip occurs in the tolerance ring. Therefore, the tolerance ring acts as a torque limiter.

[0003] For example, tolerance rings may be used in environments with high torque loads and high rotational speeds. Furthermore, when there are large torque fluctuations, the torque repeatedly rises and falls above and below the threshold value. This causes intermittent slippage in the tolerance ring. Even if the time for a single slippage is short, for example 1 to 2 seconds, the accumulated time becomes long, resulting in a long total sliding distance. To maintain the function of the torque limiter even after a long accumulated slippage, there is a demand for tolerance rings with high wear resistance.

[0004] Patent Document 1 describes a torque limiting assembly in which a polymer layer is laminated on the inner peripheral side of the ring body of a tolerance ring. Further improvement in wear resistance is required for the tolerance ring to be used under conditions of high load and large torque fluctuation, or in environments of high speed rotation and other conditions in which slippage occurs for a long period of time.

[0005] To improve the wear resistance of tolerance rings, for example, nitriding or plating can be used. However, the treated surface after nitriding or plating becomes hard. Therefore, when the tolerance ring is press-fitted for assembly, there is a risk that the treated surface may crack or chip due to deformation of the protrusions. Therefore, there is room for improvement in order to improve the wear resistance of tolerance rings.

[0006] Patent Document 2 describes a tolerance ring having a ring body in the shape of a single long strip member wound approximately twice. A protrusion protruding radially outward is provided on the outer periphery of the ring body. No protrusion is provided on the inner periphery of the ring body. It is conceivable to improve wear resistance by subjecting only the inner periphery of this ring body to nitriding or plating. However, when a strip member has both a treated surface and an untreated surface that is not nitrided or plated, there is a boundary between the treated surfaces. There is a risk of cracks or chips occurring from the boundary between these treated surfaces. Therefore, it is difficult to maintain wear resistance even if nitriding or plating is performed only on the inner periphery of the ring body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6561094 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5177825 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a tolerance ring assembly as a torque limiter that is highly resistant to wear. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one feature of the present disclosure, a tolerance ring assembly includes a tolerance ring having a projection protruding in a radial direction. The tolerance ring assembly includes a sliding ring radially facing the tolerance ring on the radially opposite side of the projection. The tolerance ring assembly includes an engagement portion that engages two components, the tolerance ring and the sliding ring, to restrict circumferential movement of the two components.

[0010] Therefore, the sliding ring is provided as a separate part from the tolerance ring. This allows the sliding ring to be subjected to a treatment to increase the wear resistance of its surface, such as nitriding or plating. Therefore, when a tolerance ring having protrusions is press-fitted, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of cracks or chips around the deformed protrusions. The sliding ring can maintain high wear resistance. The deformation of the protrusions suppresses the tolerance ring from slipping against the mating member. Thus, a tolerance ring assembly having a highly wear-resistant sliding ring can be made to function as a torque limiter by sliding the sliding ring against the mating member. Moreover, the engagement portion can suppress relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the tolerance ring from sliding against the sliding ring having a hard treated surface and becoming worn. This makes it possible to suppress the decrease in slip torque when slip occurs as a torque limiter. This allows a highly wear-resistant tolerance ring assembly to function as a torque limiter with high slip torque.

[0011] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaging portion protrudes in the radial direction from one of the two components. The other of the two components is provided with an engaged portion into which the engaging portion is inserted. Thus, the engaging portion and the engaged portion engage with each other in a concave-convex manner in the radial direction. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the tolerance ring and the sliding ring from sliding relative to each other in the circumferential direction.

[0012] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body. The tolerance ring has a joint formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body. The engagement portion is inserted into the joint. Therefore, a tolerance ring with an existing structure can be used to suppress relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring. Therefore, a tolerance ring assembly with high wear resistance can be provided by reducing the number of newly designed parts.

[0013] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the tolerance ring has protrusions on both circumferential ends of the ring body. At least a portion of the engagement portion is provided at a position that avoids the protrusions in the axial direction. Therefore, the protrusions are deformed when the tolerance ring assembly is press-fitted. By providing at least a portion of the engagement portion at a position that avoids the protrusions, deformation of the engagement portion during press-fitting can be suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress relative sliding between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring in the circumferential direction even after press-fitting.

[0014] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body. The tolerance ring has a joint formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body. The sliding ring has a cylindrical ring body. The sliding ring has a joint formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body. The two parts are engaged by an engagement portion such that the joint of the tolerance ring and the joint of the sliding ring are adjacent in the radial direction. Therefore, both joints can be opened simultaneously in a state where the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are assembled to each other. Therefore, the tolerance ring and the sliding ring can be press-fitted together in a state where they are assembled to each other. This reduces the number of steps during press-fitting assembly, and improves workability.

[0015] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaged portion is a hole or a recess formed in the other of the two components. Therefore, the engaged portion can be provided with a simple structure. Therefore, the engaged portion can be provided at low manufacturing cost without making a major design change.

[0016] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaging portion is inserted into the engaged portion in the axial direction. Therefore, when the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are assembled in the axial direction, the engaging portion is inserted into the engaged portion. This allows the tolerance ring and the sliding ring to be assembled smoothly in the axial direction. For example, a tolerance ring assembly may be assembled while the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are slid axially relative to a shaft member or the like. Therefore, by making the axial assembly of the two parts smoother, the workability of assembling the tolerance ring assembly can be improved.

[0017] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engagement portion is a separate part from the two parts and is attached to one of the two parts. Therefore, for example, after the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are slid axially relative to a shaft member or the like to be assembled, the engagement portion of the separate part can be attached to suppress relative circumferential movement of the tolerance ring and the sliding ring. This makes it possible to assemble a tolerance ring assembly as a torque limiter with high wear resistance that can be adapted to the assembly target in various working environments.

[0018] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the surface of the sliding ring is nitrided or plated. This makes it possible to increase the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring. The sliding ring having a highly wear-resistant treated surface and the tolerance ring having protrusions that deform during press-fit assembly are made as separate parts. This makes it possible to prevent cracks or chips from occurring on the hard treated surface of the sliding ring during press-fit assembly. Therefore, the high wear resistance of the sliding ring can be maintained even after press-fit assembly.

[0019] According to another feature of the present disclosure, a solid lubricant coating is provided to cover the surface of the sliding ring. This can increase the lubricity of the surface of the sliding ring. This improves the initial compatibility with the mating member, and can suppress wear of the surface of the sliding ring from the initial stage of sliding. This can further increase the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a tolerance ring assembly includes a tolerance ring having a projection protruding in a radial direction, a sliding ring radially opposed to the tolerance ring on a radially opposite side of the projection, and a surface of the sliding ring in the tolerance ring assembly is nitrided or plated.

[0021] Therefore, the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring can be increased. The sliding ring having a highly wear-resistant treated surface and the tolerance ring having protrusions that deform during press-fit assembly are made into separate components. This makes it possible to prevent cracks and chips from occurring on the hard treated surface of the sliding ring during press-fit assembly. The deformation of the protrusions prevents the tolerance ring from slipping against the mating member. Thus, while maintaining the high wear resistance of the sliding ring, the sliding ring can be slid against the mating member to cause the tolerance ring assembly to act as a torque limiter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a view of the tolerance ring assembly as viewed from the axial direction. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Diagram 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a view of the tolerance ring assembly as viewed from the axial direction. [Figure 9] 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a view of the tolerance ring assembly as viewed from the axial direction. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a side view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is a view of the tolerance ring assembly as viewed from the axial direction. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 19] FIG. 4 is a view of the tolerance ring assembly as viewed from the axial direction. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a side view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 21] 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a side view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Diagram 25] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a side view of the tolerance ring assembly. [Figure 28] 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXVIII-XXVIII in FIG. 27. [Figure 29] FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to an eighth embodiment. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a ninth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] [First embodiment] A first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. As shown in Figure 1, a tolerance ring assembly 1 has a ring-shaped tolerance ring 2 and a ring-shaped sliding ring 6. The tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 are provided as separate parts. The tolerance ring 2 is disposed on the radially outer side, and the sliding ring 6 is disposed on the radially inner side.

[0024] The tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in FIG. 1 is used by being fitted between a shaft member and an outer peripheral member. The shaft member is, for example, a columnar or cylindrical metal member such as a rotor shaft. The outer peripheral member is, for example, cylindrical with a hole in the center, into which the shaft member is inserted. A cylindrical gap is formed radially between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member. The tolerance ring assembly 1 is press-fitted into the cylindrical gap to be fitted between the two members. This allows torque to be transmitted between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member.

[0025] The outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2 shown in FIG. 1 faces the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral member. The outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2 is prevented from moving relative to the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral member by an interference fit. The inner peripheral surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 faces the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member. When the torque of the shaft member exceeds a threshold value (slip torque), the inner peripheral surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 slides against the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member. This causes the tolerance ring assembly 1 to act as a torque limiter.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the tolerance ring 2 has a cylindrical ring body 3. The ring body 3 has an outer peripheral surface 3a and an inner peripheral surface 3b that are cylindrical and centered on the axial center C. The ring body 3 is provided with a substantially constant thickness. The tolerance ring 2 has a plurality of protrusions 5 that protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 3a of the ring body 3. The ring body 3 is formed into a cylindrical shape by rolling a strip-shaped plate material having spring properties. The tolerance ring 2 is provided with a metal material, for example, iron or alloy steel such as high carbon steel or stainless steel, or non-ferrous metal such as copper or nickel, or a metal alloy thereof. In the present disclosure, the tolerance ring 2 is made of carbon steel, for example, S60CM (JIS G3311).

[0027] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the ring body 3 has a first end 3c at one circumferential end (the end on the left side in the figure). The ring body 3 has a second end 3d at the other circumferential end (the end on the right side in the figure). The first end 3c and the second end 3d are parallel to each other. A joint portion 4 is formed between the first end 3c and the second end 3d. The joint portion 4 is a slit-shaped hole that penetrates the ring body 3 in the radial and axial directions. The ring body 3 has a first edge portion 3e at one axial end (the upper end in the figure). The ring body 3 has a second edge portion 3f at the other axial end (the lower end in the figure). The first edge portion 3e and the second edge portion 3f are parallel to each other. In the following description, the circumferential ends of the components are referred to as "ends" and "end faces". The axial ends of the components are referred to as "edges" to be distinguished from "ends" and "end faces".

[0028] 1 to 4, the protrusion 5 has a pent roof shape with approximately triangular slopes on both axial sides and approximately trapezoidal slopes on both circumferential sides. The protrusion 5 has a rectangular shape that is long in the axial direction of the ring body 3 when viewed from the radial direction. The back side of the protrusion 5 is concave toward the radially outward side on the inner circumferential surface 3b side of the ring body 3.

[0029] 1, 2 and 4, the multiple protrusions 5 have two rows of protrusions spaced apart in the axial direction. The first protrusion row 5b and the second protrusion row 5e are aligned in the circumferential direction of the ring body 3 and are aligned parallel to each other. The first protrusion row 5b and the second protrusion row 5e have the same number of protrusions 5. The protrusions 5 constituting the first protrusion row 5b and the protrusions 5 constituting the second protrusion row 5e are arranged such that the positions of the peaks protruding radially outward are aligned in the axial direction.

[0030] As shown in Figs. 1 to 4, the multiple protrusions 5 include half protrusions 5a arranged at the first end 3c and the second end 3d of the ring body 3. The apex of the half protrusion 5a is arranged at the first end 3c or the second end 3d. A total of four half protrusions 5a are provided at both circumferential ends of the first protrusion row 5b and both circumferential ends of the second protrusion row 5e. The two half protrusions 5a of the first protrusion row 5b face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint portion 4. The two half protrusions 5a of the second protrusion row 5e face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint portion 4. The half protrusions 5a are provided in a shape obtained by dividing the other protrusions 5 in half in the circumferential direction with the apex as a boundary. The circumferential length of the half protrusions 5a is approximately half that of the other protrusions 5. The half protrusions 5a are provided with approximately the same axial length as the other protrusions 5.

[0031] As shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 4, the region between the first edge 3e of the ring body 3 and the first edge 5c of the first protrusion row 5b is provided in a cylindrical surface shape without any unevenness. The axial distance between the first edge 3e and the first edge 5c of the first protrusion row 5b is shorter than the circumferential length of one protrusion 5. The region between the second edge 3f of the ring body 3 and the second edge 5g of the second protrusion row 5e is provided in a cylindrical surface shape without any unevenness. The axial distance between the second edge 3f and the second edge 5g of the second protrusion row 5e is shorter than the circumferential length of one protrusion 5. The intermediate portion 3g between the second edge 5d of the first protrusion row 5b and the first edge 5f of the second protrusion row 5e is provided in a cylindrical surface shape without any unevenness. The axial distance of the intermediate portion 3g is provided to be approximately the same as the circumferential length of one protrusion 5.

[0032] The tolerance ring 2 shown in Fig. 2 is formed, for example, by the following procedure. First, a plurality of protrusions 5 are formed on a rectangular strip of plate material. Next, the strip of plate material is curled in the longitudinal direction to form a ring shape. After being formed into the product shape, the tolerance ring 2 is subjected to a heat treatment such as austempering to remove residual stress. Furthermore, the tolerance ring 2 may be subjected to a surface treatment such as shot blasting, an anti-rust treatment, etc.

[0033] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the sliding ring 6 has a cylindrical ring body 7. The ring body 7 has an outer peripheral surface 7a and an inner peripheral surface 7b that are cylindrical and centered on the axial center C. The ring body 7 is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 3 and with an approximately constant thickness. The ring body 7 is formed into a cylindrical shape by rolling a strip-shaped plate material having spring properties. The sliding ring 6 is provided with a metal material, for example, iron or alloy steel such as high carbon steel or stainless steel, or a non-ferrous metal such as copper or nickel or a metal alloy thereof. In the present disclosure, the sliding ring 6 is made of, for example, stainless steel (SUS). Alternatively, the sliding ring 6 is made of carbon tool steel such as SK85 (JIS G4401). Alternatively, the sliding ring 6 is made of the same carbon steel as the tolerance ring 2, for example, S60CM.

[0034] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the ring body 7 has a first end 7c at one circumferential end (the end on the right side in the back of the figure). The ring body 7 has a second end 7d at the other circumferential end (the end on the left side in the back of the figure). The first end 7c and the second end 7d are parallel to each other. A joint portion 8 is formed between the first end 7c and the second end 7d. The ring body 7 has a first edge portion 7e at one axial end (the upper end in the figure). The ring body 7 has a second edge portion 7f at the other axial end (the lower end in the figure). The first edge portion 7e and the second edge portion 7f are parallel to each other.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the sliding ring 6 has an engagement portion 9 that protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 7a. The engagement portion 9 is provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the joint portion 8. The engagement portion 9 is provided at the center of the ring body 7 in the axial direction. The engagement portion 9 is substantially rectangular when viewed from the radial direction. The engagement portion 9 is provided in an arch shape extending in the axial direction of the ring body 7. The engagement portion 9 is located on the first edge portion 7e side and has a first edge portion 9b that extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 7a. The engagement portion 9 is located on the second edge portion 7f side and has a second edge portion 9c that extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 7a. The engagement portion 9 is provided with a circumferential width that is substantially the same as that of the joint portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0036] As shown in Figs. 1 to 4, the engagement portion 9 has an apex 9a between a first edge 9b and a second edge 9c in the axial direction. The apex 9a extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 7a and generally parallel to the axial direction. Holes 9d, 9e are provided on both sides of the engagement portion 9 in the circumferential direction. The holes 9d, 9e are provided in a generally rectangular shape penetrating the ring body 7 in the radial direction. The holes 9d, 9e overlap with the engagement portion 9 in the axial direction and have generally the same axial length as the engagement portion 9.

[0037] The sliding ring 6 shown in FIG. 2 is formed, for example, by the following procedure. First, holes 9d, 9e are provided in a rectangular strip-shaped plate material. Next, the engagement portion 9 is formed. Next, the strip-shaped plate material is curled in the longitudinal direction to form a ring shape. After being formed into the product shape, a heat treatment is performed to remove residual stress. For example, if the material of the sliding ring 6 is stainless steel, a heat treatment such as low-temperature annealing is performed. For example, if the material of the sliding ring 6 is carbon tool steel, a heat treatment such as low-temperature annealing or austempering is performed. For example, if the material of the sliding ring 6 is carbon steel, a heat treatment such as austempering or low-temperature annealing is performed.

[0038] Next, the entire surface of the sliding ring 6 is subjected to nitriding or plating. For example, when the material of the sliding ring 6 is stainless steel or carbon tool steel, the sliding ring 6 is subjected to nitriding. Alternatively, the sliding ring 6 may be subjected to plating. For example, when the material of the sliding ring 6 is carbon steel, the sliding ring 6 is subjected to plating. By performing nitriding or plating, the entire surface of the sliding ring 6 becomes hard and the wear resistance is improved.

[0039] Furthermore, a solid lubricant coating may be formed to cover the surface of the sliding ring 6. The solid lubricant coating includes a material with high lubricity, such as molybdenum disulfide. The solid lubricant coating is formed as a thin film of approximately constant thickness on the surface of the sliding ring 6, for example, by dip spinning or spray coating. For example, in the dip spinning method, the solid lubricant coating is formed by centrifugal force, so the thickness of the solid lubricant coating is thin, for example, less than 30 μm, less than 20 μm, or less than 10 μm. The solid lubricant coating is fixed to the surface of the sliding ring 6 by thermal hardening, for example, by heating and baking. By forming a thin solid lubricant coating on the surface of the sliding ring 6, friction between the inner peripheral surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 and the shaft member is reduced, and initial familiarity is improved. Therefore, wear of the inner peripheral surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 can be suppressed, and wear resistance can be improved.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1, 3, 4 and 5, a sliding ring 6 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 are, for example, delivered separately and assembled to each other at the stage of assembly to a shaft member or the like. An engaging portion 9 of the sliding ring 6 protrudes radially outward and enters the abutment portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 9 can be inserted into the abutment portion 4 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the abutment portion 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 9.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1, 3, 4, and 5, the apex 9a of the engagement portion 9 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 9a of the engagement portion 9 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction. The engagement portion 9 abuts against the first end 3c and the second end 3d of the tolerance ring 2 in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length of the engagement portion 9 and the circumferential spacing of the abutment 4 are approximately the same length, and preferably the same length if possible. However, in order to prevent the abutment 4 from riding on the engagement portion 9 when the tolerance ring assembly 1 is assembled to the mating member and to take into account the variation between the tolerance ring assemblies 1, the circumferential length of the engagement portion 9 and the circumferential spacing of the abutment 4 also include a case in which one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm, respectively. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the engagement portion 9 and the abutment portion 4 come into contact during the initial misalignment, and thereafter, relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 can be suppressed. The engagement portion 9 engages with the abutment portion 4 in the radial direction, thereby suppressing relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6. The apex 9a of the engagement portion 9 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5, and is located at least radially inward from the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of the engagement portion 9 can be suppressed.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 4, the top 9a of the engagement portion 9 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 9b of the engagement portion 9 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 9c of the engagement portion 9 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of the engagement portion 9 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak projection 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak projection 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0043] As described above, the tolerance ring assembly 1 has a tolerance ring 2 equipped with a protrusion 5 that protrudes in the radial direction, as shown in Figure 1. The tolerance ring assembly 1 has a sliding ring 6 that faces the tolerance ring 2 in the radial direction on the radially opposite side of the protrusion 5. The tolerance ring assembly 1 has an engagement portion 9 that engages the two parts, the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6, to restrict circumferential movement of the two parts.

[0044] Therefore, the sliding ring 6 is provided as a separate part from the tolerance ring 2. This allows the sliding ring 6 to be subjected to a treatment to increase the wear resistance of its surface, such as nitriding or plating. Therefore, when the tolerance ring 2 having the projections 5 is press-fitted, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of cracks or chips on the surface around the projections 5. The sliding ring 6 can maintain high wear resistance. The tolerance ring 2 is suppressed from slipping against the mating member by the deformation of the projections 5. Thus, the tolerance ring assembly 1 having the highly wear-resistant sliding ring 6 can be made to function as a torque limiter by sliding the sliding ring 6 against the mating member. Moreover, the engagement portion 9 can suppress relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the tolerance ring 2 from sliding against the sliding ring 6 having a hard treated surface and becoming worn. This makes it possible to suppress the decrease in slip torque when slip occurs as a torque limiter. This allows the highly wear-resistant tolerance ring assembly 1 to function as a torque limiter with high slip torque.

[0045] 1 and 3, the engagement portion 9 protrudes radially from the sliding ring 6, which is one of the two components. The tolerance ring 2, which is the other of the two components, is provided with a joint 4 (engaged portion) into which the engagement portion 9 is inserted. Therefore, the engagement portion 9 and the joint 4 engage with each other in a radial concave-convex manner. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 from sliding relative to each other in the circumferential direction.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tolerance ring 2 has a cylindrical ring body 3. The tolerance ring 2 has a joint 4 formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body 3. The engagement portion 9 is inserted into the joint 4. Therefore, by utilizing the tolerance ring 2 with an existing structure, relative circumferential slippage between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 can be suppressed. As a result, the number of newly designed parts can be reduced and a tolerance ring assembly 1 with high wear resistance can be provided.

[0047] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the tolerance ring 2 has protrusions 5 on both circumferential ends of the ring body 3. At least a part of the engagement portion 9 is provided in a position that avoids the protrusions 5 in the axial direction. Therefore, the protrusions 5 are deformed when the tolerance ring assembly 1 is press-fitted. By providing at least a part of the engagement portion 9 in a position that avoids the protrusions 5, deformation of the engagement portion 9 during press-fitting can be suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress relative circumferential slippage between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 even after press-fitting.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 2, the abutment 4 (engaged portion) is a slit-shaped hole formed in the tolerance ring 2, which is the other of the two components. Therefore, the abutment 4 can be provided with a simple structure. As a result, the abutment 4 can be provided as the engaged portion at low manufacturing cost without making major design changes.

[0049] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the engaging portion 9 is inserted into the joint 4 in the axial direction. Therefore, when assembling the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 in the axial direction, the engaging portion 9 is inserted into the joint 4. This allows the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 to be smoothly assembled in the axial direction. For example, the tolerance ring assembly 1 may be assembled to a shaft member, etc. by sliding the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 in the axial direction relative to the shaft member, etc. Therefore, by smoothing the axial assembly of the two parts, the workability of assembling the tolerance ring assembly 1 can be improved.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2, the surface of the sliding ring 6 is nitrided or plated. This makes it possible to increase the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring 6. The sliding ring 6, which has a highly wear-resistant treated surface, and the tolerance ring 2, which has protrusions 5 that deform during press-fit assembly, are made as separate parts. This makes it possible to prevent cracks or chips from occurring in the hard treated surface of the sliding ring 6 during press-fit assembly. Therefore, the high wear resistance of the sliding ring 6 can be maintained even after press-fit assembly.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 2, a solid lubricant coating is provided to cover the surface of the sliding ring 6. This can increase the lubricity of the surface of the sliding ring 6. This improves the initial compatibility with the mating member such as the shaft member, and can suppress wear of the surface of the sliding ring 6 from the initial stage of sliding. This can further increase the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring 6.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 2, the tolerance ring assembly 1 has a tolerance ring 2 equipped with a projection 5 that protrudes in the radial direction. The tolerance ring assembly 1 has a sliding ring 6 that faces the tolerance ring 2 in the radial direction on the radially opposite side of the projection 5. In the tolerance ring assembly 1, the surface of the sliding ring 6 is subjected to nitriding or plating treatment.

[0053] This makes it possible to increase the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring 6. The sliding ring 6, which has a highly wear-resistant treated surface, and the tolerance ring 2, which has protrusions 5 that deform when press-fitted, are made into separate components. This makes it possible to prevent cracks and chips from occurring in the hard treated surface of the sliding ring 6 when press-fitted. The deformation of the protrusions 5 prevents the tolerance ring 2 from slipping against the mating member. In this way, the sliding ring 6 can be slid against the mating member while maintaining the high wear resistance of the sliding ring 6, allowing the tolerance ring assembly 1 to function as a torque limiter.

[0054] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 6 to 9. The tolerance ring assembly 10 has a tolerance ring 11 and a sliding ring 15 instead of the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 11 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 15 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 15 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following description, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0055] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the tolerance ring 11 and the sliding ring 15 are provided as separate parts. The sliding ring 15 is arranged on the radially outer side, and the tolerance ring 11 is arranged on the radially inner side. The tolerance ring assembly 10 is fitted between a shaft member and an outer peripheral member. The inner circumferential surface 12b of the tolerance ring 11 faces the outer circumferential surface of the shaft member. The outer circumferential surface 16a of the sliding ring 15 faces the inner circumferential surface of the outer peripheral member.

[0056] As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the tolerance ring 11 has a cylindrical ring body 12. The ring body 12 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 12a and an inner peripheral surface 12b, and is provided with a substantially constant thickness. The ring body 12 has a first end 12c and a second end 12d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 13 that is a slit-shaped hole that penetrates the ring body 12 in the radial and axial directions is formed between the first end 12c and the second end 12d. The ring body 12 has a first edge portion 12e and a second edge portion 12f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the tolerance ring 11 has a plurality of protrusions 14 protruding radially inward from the inner peripheral surface 12b. The protrusions 14 are provided in the same shape as the protrusions 5 (see FIG. 2). The protrusions 14 are pent roof shaped and are rectangular in shape elongated in the axial direction of the ring body 12 when viewed from the radial direction. The back side of the protrusions 14 is concave toward the radially inward side on the outer peripheral surface 12a side of the ring body 12. The plurality of protrusions 14 have two protrusion rows arranged at intervals in the axial direction. The first protrusion row 14b and the second protrusion row 14e are arranged in the circumferential direction of the ring body 12 and parallel to each other. The first protrusion row 14b and the second protrusion row 14e have the same number of protrusions 14. The protrusions 14 constituting the first protrusion row 14b and the protrusions 14 constituting the second protrusion row 14e are arranged so that the positions of the peaks protruding radially inward are aligned in the axial direction.

[0058] As shown in Figs. 6 to 9, the multiple protrusions 14 include half protrusions 14a arranged at the first end 12c and the second end 12d of the ring body 12. The half protrusions 14a are provided in the same shape as the half protrusions 5a (see Fig. 2). The tops of the half protrusions 14a are arranged at the first end 12c or the second end 12d. A total of four half protrusions 14a are provided at both circumferential ends of the first protrusion row 14b and both circumferential ends of the second protrusion row 14e. The two half protrusions 14a of the first protrusion row 14b face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint portion 13. The two half protrusions 14a of the second protrusion row 14e face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint portion 13.

[0059] 9, the area between the first edge 12e of the ring body 12 and the first edge 14c of the first protrusion row 14b is formed into a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. The area between the second edge 12f of the ring body 12 and the second edge 14g of the second protrusion row 14e is formed into a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. An intermediate portion 12g between the second edge 14d of the first protrusion row 14b and the first edge 14f of the second protrusion row 14e is formed into a cylindrical surface without any irregularities.

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the sliding ring 15 is provided in the same shape as the sliding ring 6 (see FIG. 2). The sliding ring 15 has a cylindrical ring body 16. The ring body 16 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 16a and an inner peripheral surface 16b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 12 and approximately constant thickness. The ring body 16 has a first end 16c and a second end 16d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 17 is formed between the first end 16c and the second end 16d. The ring body 16 has a first edge portion 16e and a second edge portion 16f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0061] As shown in Figs. 6 to 9, the sliding ring 15 has an engagement portion 18 that protrudes radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 16a. The engagement portion 18 is provided on the opposite side of the joint portion 17 across the axial center C. The engagement portion 18 is provided at the center of the ring body 16 in the axial direction. The engagement portion 18 is substantially rectangular when viewed from the radial direction. The engagement portion 18 is provided in an arch shape extending in the axial direction of the ring body 16. The engagement portion 18 has a first edge portion 18b located on the first edge portion 16e side and extending radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 16a. The engagement portion 18 has a second edge portion 18c located on the second edge portion 16f side and extending radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 16a. The engagement portion 18 is provided with a circumferential width that is substantially the same as that of the joint portion 13 of the tolerance ring 11 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0062] 6, 7, and 9, the engagement portion 18 has an apex 18a between a first edge portion 18b and a second edge portion 18c in the axial direction. The apex portion 18a extends radially inward from the inner peripheral surface 16b and generally parallel to the axial direction. On both sides of the engagement portion 18 in the circumferential direction, substantially rectangular holes 18d and 18e are provided which penetrate the ring body 16 in the radial direction. The holes 18d and 18e overlap the engagement portion 18 in the axial direction and have substantially the same axial length as the engagement portion 18.

[0063] As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the sliding ring 15 is assembled to the radially outer side of the tolerance ring 11. The engaging portion 18 protrudes radially inward and enters the abutment portion 13 of the tolerance ring 11. The engaging portion 18 can be inserted axially into the abutment portion 13. In this embodiment, the abutment portion 13 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 18. The apex 18a of the engaging portion 18 protrudes radially inward from the inner peripheral surface 12b of the tolerance ring 11. However, the apex 18a of the engaging portion 18 does not have to protrude inward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the plate thickness of the ring body 12 in the radial direction. The engaging portion 18 abuts against the first end 12c and the second end 12d of the tolerance ring 11 in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length of the engaging portion 18 and the circumferential interval of the abutment portion 13 are approximately the same length, and preferably the same length if possible. However, in order to prevent the joint 13 from riding on the engagement portion 18 when the tolerance ring assembly 10 is assembled to the mating member and to take into consideration the variation of each tolerance ring assembly 10, the circumferential length of the engagement portion 18 and the circumferential distance of the joint 13 may be set to about 1 mm on one side and the other side. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the engagement portion 18 and the joint 13 come into contact with each other during the initial misalignment, so that the relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 11 and the sliding ring 15 can be suppressed thereafter. Therefore, the relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 11 and the sliding ring 15 can be suppressed. The top 18a of the engagement portion 18 is located radially outward from the top of the projection 14, and is located radially outward from at least the height of the projection 14 at its lowest state due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the projection 14 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, the deformation of the engagement portion 18 can be suppressed.

[0064] As shown in Fig. 9, the top 18a of the engagement portion 18 overlaps with the middle portion 12g of the ring body 12 in the axial direction. The first edge 18b of the engagement portion 18 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 14d of the first protrusion row 14b in the axial direction. The second edge 18c of the engagement portion 18 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 14f of the second protrusion row 14e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of the engagement portion 18 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusion 14a of the first protrusion row 14b and the half-peak protrusion 14a of the second protrusion row 14e in the axial direction.

[0065] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 10 to 13. A tolerance ring assembly 20 has a sliding ring 21 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 21 are similar to those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 21 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, the sliding ring 21 is provided as a separate part that is assembled radially inward of the tolerance ring 2. The sliding ring 21 has a cylindrical ring body 22. The ring body 22 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 22a and an inner peripheral surface 22b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 3 and approximately constant thickness. The ring body 22 has a first end 22c and a second end 22d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 23 that is narrower in the circumferential direction than the joint 4 is formed between the first end 22c and the second end 22d. The ring body 22 has a first edge 22e and a second edge 22f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, the sliding ring 21 has an engagement portion 24 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 22a. The engagement portion 24 includes a first engagement portion 24a provided adjacent to the first end portion 22c and a second engagement portion 24b provided adjacent to the second end portion 22d. The two engagement portions 24 are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction at the center of the ring body 22 in the axial direction. Each engagement portion 24 is substantially rectangular when viewed from the radial direction. Each engagement portion 24 is provided in an arch shape extending in the axial direction of the ring body 22. Each engagement portion 24 has a first edge portion 24d located on the first edge portion 22e side and extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 22a. The engagement portion 24 has a second edge portion 24e located on the second edge portion 22f side and extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 22a. Each engagement portion 24 is provided with a circumferential width that is half or less of the width of the joint portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0068] As shown in Figs. 10, 11, and 13, each engagement portion 24 has a top portion 24c between a first edge portion 24d and a second edge portion 24e in the axial direction. The top portion 24c extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 22a and approximately parallel to the axial direction. A substantially rectangular hole 24f is provided adjacent to the first engagement portion 24a in the circumferential direction and opposite to the first end portion 22c. A substantially rectangular hole 24g is provided adjacent to the second engagement portion 24b in the circumferential direction and opposite to the second end portion 22d in the circumferential direction and radially penetrating the ring body 22. The holes 24f and 24g are provided to overlap each engagement portion 24 in the axial direction and have approximately the same axial length as each engagement portion 24.

[0069] As shown in Figs. 10 to 12, the sliding ring 21 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 are delivered as a tolerance ring assembly 20 assembled together, and assembled to a shaft member or the like. The engaging portion 24 protrudes radially outward and enters the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 24 can be inserted into the joint 4 in the axial direction. The joint 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 24 in this embodiment. The apex 24c of each engaging portion 24 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 24c of the engaging portion 24 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the plate thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction. The joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 and the joint 23 of the sliding ring 21 are adjacent to each other in the radial direction. The first engaging portion 24a abuts against the first end 3c in the circumferential direction. The second engaging portion 24b abuts against the second end 3d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length from the abutment point of the first engaging portion 24a with the first end 3c to the abutment point of the second engaging portion 24b with the second end 3d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 24) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the joints 4, and preferably the same length if possible. However, in a state in which the tolerance ring assembly 20 is assembled to a mating member, the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 24 and the circumferential spacing of the joints 4 also include a case in which one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm, respectively, so that the joints 4 do not ride up on the first engaging portion 24a or the second engaging portion 24b and in consideration of variations in each tolerance ring assembly 20. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the first engagement portion 24a or the second engagement portion 24b comes into contact with the joint portion 4 during the initial misalignment, and thereafter, relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 can be suppressed. Therefore, relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 can be suppressed. The apex 24c of the engagement portion 24 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5, and is located at least radially inward from the height of the protrusion 5 at its lowest state due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of the engagement portion 24 can be suppressed.

[0070] As shown in Fig. 13, the apex 24c of each engagement portion 24 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 24d of each engagement portion 24 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 24e of each engagement portion 24 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of each engagement portion 24 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak projection 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak projection 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0071] As described above, the tolerance ring 2 has a cylindrical ring body 3 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11. The tolerance ring 2 has a joint 4 formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body 3. The sliding ring 21 has a cylindrical ring body 22. The sliding ring 21 has a joint 23 formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body 22. The two parts are engaged by an engagement portion 24 so that the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 and the joint 23 of the sliding ring 21 are adjacent to each other in the radial direction. Therefore, both joints 4, 23 can be opened simultaneously in a state where the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 are assembled to each other. Therefore, the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 can be press-fitted and assembled in a state where they are assembled to each other. This reduces the number of steps during press-fitting and improves workability.

[0072] [Fourth embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 14 to 16. A tolerance ring assembly 30 has a sliding ring 31 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 31 are similar to those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 31 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the sliding ring 31 is provided as a separate part that is assembled radially inward of the tolerance ring 2. The sliding ring 31 has a cylindrical ring body 32. The ring body 32 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 32a and an inner peripheral surface 32b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 3 and approximately constant thickness. The ring body 32 has a first end 32c and a second end 32d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 33 is formed between the first end 32c and the second end 32d. The ring body 32 has a first edge portion 32e and a second edge portion 32f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the sliding ring 31 has an engagement portion 34 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 32a. The engagement portion 34 is provided adjacent to the first end portion 32c. The engagement portion 34 is provided at the center of the ring body 32 in the axial direction. The engagement portion 34 is substantially rectangular when viewed from the radial direction. The engagement portion 34 is provided in an arch shape extending in the axial direction of the ring body 32. The engagement portion 34 has a first edge portion 34b located on the first edge portion 32e side and extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 32a. The engagement portion 34 has a second edge portion 34c located on the second edge portion 32f side and extending radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 32a. The engagement portion 34 is provided with a circumferential width that is substantially the same as that of the joint portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0075] 14 and 15, the engagement portion 34 has an apex 34a between a first edge 34b and a second edge 34c in the axial direction. The apex 34a extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 32a and generally parallel to the axial direction. Next to the engagement portion 34 in the circumferential direction and opposite the first end 32c, a generally rectangular hole 34d is provided which penetrates the ring body 32 in the radial direction. The hole 34d overlaps with the engagement portion 34 in the axial direction and has generally the same axial length as the engagement portion 34.

[0076] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the sliding ring 31 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 34 protrudes radially outward and enters the abutment portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 34 can be inserted into the abutment portion 4 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the abutment portion 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 34. The apex 34a of the engaging portion 34 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 34a of the engaging portion 34 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the plate thickness of the ring main body 3 in the radial direction. The abutment portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2 and the abutment portion 33 of the sliding ring 31 are arranged with a circumferential offset, but are communicated when the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 31 are expanded in diameter. The engaging portion 34 abuts against the first end 3c and the second end 3d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length of the engaging portion 34 and the circumferential interval of the abutment 4 are approximately the same length, and preferably the same length if possible. However, in a state where the tolerance ring assembly 30 is assembled to a mating member, the circumferential length of the engaging portion 34 and the circumferential interval of the abutment 4 include a case where one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm each so that the abutment 4 does not ride up on the engaging portion 34 and the variation of each tolerance ring assembly 30 is taken into consideration. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the engaging portion 34 and the abutment 4 abut against each other at the first misalignment, so that the relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 31 can be suppressed thereafter. Therefore, the relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 31 can be suppressed. The apex 34a of the engaging portion 34 is located radially inward from the apex of the projection 5, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the projection 5 at its lowest point due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the projection 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of the engaging portion 34 can be suppressed.

[0077] 14, the apex 34a of the engagement portion 34 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 34b of the engagement portion 34 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 34c of the engagement portion 34 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of the engagement portion 34 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak projection 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak projection 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0078] [Fifth embodiment] Next, a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 17 to 21. A tolerance ring assembly 40 has a sliding ring 41 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 41 are similar to those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 41 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 17 to 19, the sliding ring 41 is provided as a separate part that is assembled radially inward of the tolerance ring 2. The sliding ring 41 has a cylindrical ring body 42. The ring body 42 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 42a and an inner peripheral surface 42b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 3 and approximately constant thickness. The ring body 42 has a first end 42c and a second end 42d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 43 is formed between the first end 42c and the second end 42d. The ring body 42 has a first edge portion 42e and a second edge portion 42f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0080] As shown in FIGS. 17 to 20, the sliding ring 41 has an engagement portion 44 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 42a. The engagement portion 44 is provided on the opposite side of the joint portion 43 across the axial center C. The engagement portion 44 is provided at the center of the ring body 42 in the axial direction. The engagement portion 44 includes a first engagement portion 44a and a second engagement portion 44b that are arranged in the circumferential direction. The first engagement portion 44a and the second engagement portion 44b have a radial protruding length that increases in the direction in which they are separated from each other. Each engagement portion 44 has a first edge portion 44d located on the first edge portion 42e side. Each engagement portion 44 has a second edge portion 44e located on the second edge portion 42f side.

[0081] 17, 18, and 20, each engagement portion 44 has an apex 44c extending axially between a first edge 44d and a second edge 44e in the axial direction. The apex 44c of the first engagement portion 44a is provided at a position furthest from the second engagement portion 44b. The apex 44c of the second engagement portion 44b is provided at a position furthest from the first engagement portion 44a. The circumferential distance between the two apexes 44c is approximately the same as the circumferential width of the joint portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0082] As shown in Figs. 17 to 21, the sliding ring 41 is assembled to the radial inside of the tolerance ring 2. Each engaging portion 44 protrudes radially outward and enters the joint portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2. Each engaging portion 44 can be inserted into the joint portion 4 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the joint portion 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 44. The apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the plate thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction. The first engaging portion 44a abuts against the first end portion 3c in the circumferential direction. The second engaging portion 44b abuts against the second end portion 3d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length from the contact point of the first engaging portion 44a with the first end 3c to the contact point of the second engaging portion 44b with the second end 3d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 44) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the joints 4, and preferably the same length if possible. However, in a state where the tolerance ring assembly 40 is assembled to a mating member, the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 44 and the circumferential spacing of the joints 4 also include a case where one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm each, so that the joints 4 do not ride up on the first engaging portion 44a or the second engaging portion 44b and variations in each tolerance ring assembly 40 are taken into consideration. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the first engaging portion 44a or the second engaging portion 44b and the joints 4 come into contact with each other during the initial misalignment, and thereafter, the relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 41 can be suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 41. The apex 44c of each engagement portion 44 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5, and is located at least radially inward from the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. This makes it possible to suppress deformation of each engagement portion 44 even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly.

[0083] 20 and 21, the apex 44c of the engagement portion 44 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 44d of the engagement portion 44 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 44e of the engagement portion 44 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of each engagement portion 44 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak projection 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak projection 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0084] [Sixth embodiment] Next, a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figs. 22 to 24. The tolerance ring assembly 50 has a tolerance ring 51 and a sliding ring 55 instead of the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The tolerance ring 51 and the sliding ring 55 are provided as separate parts. The sliding ring 55 is disposed on the radially inner side, and the tolerance ring 51 is disposed on the radially outer side. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 51 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 55 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 55 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant film, etc. In the following description, only the parts different from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0085] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the tolerance ring 51 has a cylindrical ring body 52. ​​The ring body 52 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 52a and an inner peripheral surface 52b, and is provided with a substantially constant thickness. The ring body 52 has a first end 52c and a second end 52d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 53 that is a slit-shaped hole that penetrates the ring body 52 in the radial and axial directions is formed between the first end 52c and the second end 52d. The ring body 52 has a first edge portion 52e and a second edge portion 52f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0086] As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the tolerance ring 51 has multiple protrusions 54 that protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 52a. The protrusions 54 are provided in the same shape as the protrusions 5 (see Figure 2). The protrusions 54 are pent roof shaped and have a rectangular shape that is long in the axial direction of the ring body 52 when viewed from the radial direction. The back side of the protrusions 54 on the inner circumferential surface 52b side is concave radially outward. The multiple protrusions 54 are lined up at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction to form a single row of protrusions.

[0087] As shown in FIGS. 22 to 24, the multiple protrusions 54 include half-peak protrusions 54a arranged at the first end 52c and the second end 52d of the ring body 52. ​​The half-peak protrusions 54a are provided in the same shape as the half-peak protrusions 5a (see FIG. 2). The tops of the half-peak protrusions 54a are arranged at the first end 52c and the second end 52d, respectively, and face each other in the circumferential direction via the joint portion 53. The area between the first edge portion 52e of the ring body 52 and the first edge portions 54b of the multiple protrusions 54 is provided in a cylindrical surface shape without any unevenness. The area between the second edge portion 52f of the ring body 52 and the second edge portions 54c of the multiple protrusions 54 is provided in a cylindrical surface shape without any unevenness.

[0088] As shown in Figs. 22 to 24, the sliding ring 55 has a cylindrical ring body 56. The ring body 56 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 56a and an inner peripheral surface 56b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 52 and with an approximately constant thickness. The ring body 56 has a first end 56c and a second end 56d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 57 is formed between the first end 56c and the second end 56d. The ring body 56 has a first edge portion 56e and a second edge portion 56f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0089] As shown in FIGS. 22 to 24, the sliding ring 55 has an engagement portion 58 protruding radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 56a. The engagement portion 58 is provided on the opposite side of the joint portion 57 across the axial center C. The engagement portion 58 includes a first engagement portion 58a and a second engagement portion 58b provided on the first edge portion 56e side in the axial direction, and a third engagement portion 58c and a fourth engagement portion 58d provided on the second edge portion 56f side in the axial direction, for a total of four engagement portions. The first engagement portion 58a and the second engagement portion 58b are aligned in the circumferential direction. The first engagement portion 58a and the second engagement portion 58b have radially longer protruding lengths in the direction in which they are spaced apart from each other. The third engagement portion 58c and the fourth engagement portion 58d are aligned in the circumferential direction. The third engagement portion 58c and the fourth engagement portion 58d have radially longer protruding lengths in the direction in which they are spaced apart from each other.

[0090] As shown in FIGS. 22 to 24, each of the engagement portions 58 has a first edge 58f located on the first edge 56e side. Each of the engagement portions 58 has a second edge 58g located on the second edge 56f side. Each of the engagement portions 58 has an apex 58e extending in the axial direction between the first edge 58f and the second edge 58g in the axial direction. The apex 58e of the first engagement portion 58a and the apex 58e of the second engagement portion 58b are provided at positions furthest apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The apex 58e of the third engagement portion 58c and the apex 58e of the fourth engagement portion 58d are provided at positions furthest apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The circumferential distance between the apex 58e of the first engagement portion 58a and the apex 58e of the second engagement portion 58b is approximately the same as the circumferential distance between the apex 58e of the third engagement portion 58c and the apex 58e of the fourth engagement portion 58d. This distance is approximately the same as the circumferential width of the joint portion 53 of the tolerance ring 51 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0091] As shown in Figs. 22 to 24, the sliding ring 55 is assembled to the radial inside of the tolerance ring 51. Each of the engaging portions 58 protrudes radially outward and enters the joint portion 53 of the tolerance ring 51. Each of the engaging portions 58 can be inserted into the joint portion 53 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the joint portion 53 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 58. The apex 58e of each of the engaging portions 58 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 52a of the tolerance ring 51. However, the apex 58e of each of the engaging portions 58 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the plate thickness of the ring main body 52 in the radial direction. The first engaging portion 58a and the third engaging portion 58c abut against the first end portion 52c in the circumferential direction. The second engaging portion 58b and the fourth engaging portion 58d abut against the second end portion 52d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length from the contact point of the first engaging portion 58a with the first end 52c to the contact point of the second engaging portion 58b with the second end 52d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 58) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the joints 53, and preferably the same length if possible. The circumferential length from the contact point of the third engaging portion 58c with the first end 52c to the contact point of the fourth engaging portion 58d with the second end 52d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 58) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the joints 53, and preferably the same length if possible. However, in order to prevent the joints 53 from riding on each engaging portion 58 when the tolerance ring assembly 50 is assembled to the mating member and to take into consideration variations among the tolerance ring assemblies 50, the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 58 and the circumferential spacing of the joints 53 also include a case in which one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm, respectively. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the initial misalignment causes one of the engaging portions 58 to come into contact with the joint portion 53, and thereafter, the relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 51 and the sliding ring 55 can be suppressed. Therefore, the relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 51 and the sliding ring 55 can be suppressed. The apex 58e of each engaging portion 58 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 54, and is located at least radially inward from the height of the protrusion 54 in its lowest state due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 54 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of each engaging portion 58 can be suppressed.

[0092] 24, approximately half of the apex 58e of the first engagement portion 58a and the second engagement portion 58b in the axial direction is located closer to the first edge portion 52e of the ring main body 52 than the first edge portion 54b of the protrusion 54. Approximately half of the apex 58e of the third engagement portion 58c and the fourth engagement portion 58d in the axial direction is located closer to the second edge portion 52f of the ring main body 52 than the second edge portion 54c of the protrusion 54. Thus, at least a portion of each engagement portion 58 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusion 54a in the axial direction.

[0093] [Seventh embodiment] Next, a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 25 to 28. A tolerance ring assembly 60 has a tolerance ring 61 instead of the tolerance ring 2 of the tolerance ring assembly 40 shown in Figure 17. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 61 are similar to those of the tolerance ring 2. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first and fifth embodiments will be described in detail.

[0094] As shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, the tolerance ring 61 is provided by forming through holes 62, 63 in the tolerance ring 2 shown in FIG. 2. The through holes 62, 63 are provided on the opposite side of the joint portion 4 across the axial center C. The through hole 62 is provided in the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3. The through hole 62 does not overlap the protrusion 5 in the axial direction. The through hole 62 is provided in a rectangular shape having a first end face 62a and a second end face 62b at both ends in the circumferential direction. The circumferential distance between the first end face 62a and the second end face 62b is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the circumferential distance between the apex 44c of the first engagement portion 44a and the apex 44c of the second engagement portion 44b. The axial length of the through hole 62 is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the axial length of the engagement portion 44.

[0095] 25 to 27, the through hole 63 is provided between the first edge portion 3e of the ring body 3 and the first edge portion 5c of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The through hole 63 is provided with approximately the same circumferential width as the through hole 62 and is aligned with the through hole 62 in the axial direction. The through hole 63 does not overlap with the projections 5 or the through hole 62 in the axial direction.

[0096] As shown in Figs. 25 to 28, the sliding ring 41 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 61. Each of the engaging portions 44 protrudes radially outward and enters a through hole 62 of the tolerance ring 61. In this embodiment, the through hole 62 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 44. The apex 44c of each of the engaging portions 44 protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 3a of the tolerance ring 61. However, the apex 44c of each of the engaging portions 44 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict the relative movement in the circumferential direction, and may be, for example, approximately the same as or within the plate thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction. The first engaging portion 44a abuts against the first end face 62a of the through hole 62 in the circumferential direction. The second engaging portion 44b abuts against the second end face 62b of the through hole 62 in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the relative movement in the circumferential direction between the tolerance ring 61 and the sliding ring 41 can be suppressed. The apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5, and is located at least radially inward from the height of the protrusion 5 when it is lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of each engaging portion 44 can be suppressed. Each engaging portion 44 is located within the through hole 62. Therefore, each engaging portion 44 is provided at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusion 5a of the first protrusion row 5b and the half-peak protrusion 5a of the second protrusion row 5e in the axial direction.

[0097] [Eighth embodiment] Next, an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 29. The tolerance ring assembly 70 has a tolerance ring 71 and a sliding ring 73 instead of the tolerance ring 2 and sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 71 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 73 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 73 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be explained in detail.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 29, the tolerance ring 71 is provided by forming two through holes 72 in the tolerance ring 2 shown in FIG. 2. The through holes 72 are circular holes that penetrate the ring body 3 in the plate thickness direction. The two through holes 72 are provided on the opposite side of the joint portion 4 across the axial center C. The first through hole 72a is provided at the circumferential middle of the first protrusion row 5b. The first through hole 72a is provided between the first edge portion 5c and the second edge portion 5d of the first protrusion row 5b in the axial direction. The second through hole 72b is provided at the circumferential middle of the second protrusion row 5e. The second through hole 72b is provided between the first edge portion 5f and the second edge portion 5g of the second protrusion row 5e in the axial direction. The first through hole 72a and the second through hole 72b are aligned in the axial direction. In addition, in the area where the through holes 72 are provided, no protrusions 5 are provided and the circumferential interval between adjacent protrusions 5 is wide.

[0099] As shown in Fig. 29, the sliding ring 73 has a cylindrical ring body 74. The ring body 74 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 74a and an inner peripheral surface 74b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 3 and approximately constant thickness. The ring body 74 has a first end 74c and a second end 74d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 75 is formed between the first end 74c and the second end 74d. The ring body 74 has a first edge portion 74e and a second edge portion 74f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 29, the sliding ring 73 has two through holes 76. The through holes 76 are circular holes that penetrate the ring body 74 in the plate thickness direction. The two through holes 76 are provided on the opposite side of the joint portion 75 across the axial center C. The first through hole 76a is provided at an axial position that radially communicates with the first through hole 72a of the tolerance ring 71 when the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 are assembled. The first through hole 76a is provided with approximately the same diameter as the first through hole 72a. The second through hole 76b is provided at an axial position that radially communicates with the second through hole 72b of the tolerance ring 71 when the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 are assembled. The second through hole 76b is provided with approximately the same diameter as the second through hole 72b. The axial distance between the first through hole 76a and the second through hole 76b is approximately the same as the axial distance between the first through hole 72a and the second through hole 72b on the tolerance ring 71 side.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 29, the tolerance ring assembly 70 has an engagement portion 77 that is a separate part from the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73. The engagement portion 77 is a cylindrical pin shape that is inserted into the through holes 72 and 76. The engagement portion 77 is made of, for example, the same material as the sliding ring 73. The engagement portion 77 may be subjected to surface treatment such as heat treatment, nitriding treatment, plating treatment, and application of a solid lubricant film, as with the sliding ring 73. The engagement portion 77 is provided with approximately the same diameter as the through holes 72 and 76. The engagement portion 77 includes a first engagement portion 77a that is inserted into the first through hole 72a and the first through hole 76a, and a second engagement portion 77b that is inserted into the second through hole 72b and the second through hole 76b. The length 77c of each engagement portion 77 is approximately the same as the sum of the radial thickness of the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 71 and the radial thickness of the ring body 74 of the sliding ring 73.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 29, the sliding ring 73 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 71. Each of the engagement portions 77 is inserted into the through holes 72 and 76 that communicate with each other in the radial direction. In this embodiment, the through holes 72 and 76 are engaged portions that engage with the engagement portions 77. Each of the engagement portions 77 enters both the through holes 72 and the through holes 76. This makes it possible to suppress relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73. The radially inner end of each of the engagement portions 77 is located at approximately the same radial position as the inner peripheral surface 74b of the sliding ring 73 or radially outward from the inner peripheral surface 74b. The radially outer end of each of the engagement portions 77 is located at approximately the same radial position as the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 71. This makes it possible to suppress wear of the engagement portions 77 due to contact with the shaft member or the outer peripheral member. The engagement portions 77 are attached to either one or both of the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 and are held so as not to fall off.

[0103] As described above, the engaging portion 77 is a separate part from the two parts, the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73, and is attached to one of the two parts, as shown in Fig. 29. Therefore, for example, after the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 are assembled by sliding them in the axial direction relative to a shaft member or the like, the engaging portion 77, which is a separate part, can be attached to suppress relative circumferential movement of the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73. The tolerance ring assembly 70 can be assembled as a torque limiter with high wear resistance in accordance with the assembly objects (shaft members and outer peripheral members) in various work environments.

[0104] [Ninth embodiment] Next, a ninth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 30. A tolerance ring assembly 80 has a sliding ring 81 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 81 are similar to those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 81 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0105] As shown in Fig. 30, the sliding ring 81 has a cylindrical ring body 82. The ring body 82 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 82a and an inner peripheral surface 82b, and is provided with approximately the same thickness as the ring body 3 and approximately constant thickness. The ring body 82 has a first end 82c and a second end 82d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 83 is formed between the first end 82c and the second end 82d. The ring body 82 has a first edge portion 82e and a second edge portion 82f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 30, an outer peripheral surface 82a of the sliding ring 81 is provided with one key groove 84 as a recess extending in the axial direction. The key groove 84 is provided on the opposite side of the joint 83 across the axial center C. The key groove 84 is provided over the entire axial length of the ring body 82. The key groove 84 is rectangular when viewed from the radial direction. The key groove 84 is provided with approximately the same circumferential width as the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted. The key groove 84 has a first end face 84a and a second end face 84b that extend parallel to each other in the axial direction at both ends in the circumferential direction. The radial depth of the key groove 84 is, for example, half or less of the radial thickness of the ring body 82.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 30, the tolerance ring assembly 80 has an engagement portion 85 that is a separate part from the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 81. The engagement portion 85 is provided as a rectangular key that is inserted into the key groove 84 and the joint portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engagement portion 85 is made of, for example, the same material as the sliding ring 81. The engagement portion 85 may be subjected to surface treatment such as heat treatment, nitriding treatment, plating treatment, and application of a solid lubricant coating, as with the sliding ring 81. The engagement portion 85 is provided with approximately the same circumferential width and approximately the same axial length as the key groove 84 and the joint portion 4. The radial thickness 85a of the engagement portion 85 is approximately the same length as the sum of the radial thickness of the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2 and the radial depth of the key groove 84 of the sliding ring 81.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 30, the sliding ring 81 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The key groove 84 is aligned radially and communicates with the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 85 is inserted into the joint 4 and the key groove 84, which are radially communicated. The engaging portion 85 can be axially inserted into the joint 4 and the key groove 84. In this embodiment, the joint 4 and the key groove 84 are engaged portions that engage with the engaging portion 85. The engaging portion 85 enters both the joint 4 and the key groove 84. Therefore, the relative circumferential movement of the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 81 can be suppressed. The radial outer end of the engaging portion 85 is at approximately the same radial position as the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2, and is located radially inward from the top of the projection 5, and is located at least radially inward from the height of the projection 5 at its lowest state due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the projection 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly, it is possible to suppress deformation of the engagement portion 85. The engagement portion 85 is fitted into the key groove 84 and held so as not to fall off.

[0109] As described above, the key groove 84 (engaged portion) is a recess formed in the sliding ring 81, which is the other of the two components. Therefore, the key groove 84 can be provided with a simple structure. Therefore, the key groove 84 can be provided at low manufacturing cost without making major design changes.

[0110] Various modifications can be made to the tolerance ring assemblies of the first to ninth embodiments described above. For example, a configuration has been exemplified in which an engaging portion is provided on the sliding ring side, and an abutment or the like on the tolerance ring side serves as the engaged portion. Alternatively, an engaging portion may be provided on the tolerance ring side, and an abutment or the like on the sliding ring side or a hole or recess provided on the sliding ring may serve as the engaged portion. In the second embodiment, a tolerance ring assembly 10 has been exemplified in which the tolerance ring 11 is located radially inward and the sliding ring 15 is located radially outward. For example, the structures of the third to ninth embodiments may be applied to a tolerance ring assembly in which the tolerance ring is located radially inward of the sliding ring.

[0111] The tolerance ring 2 has two projection rows arranged in the axial direction. The tolerance ring 51 has one projection row in which multiple projections 54 are arranged. Alternatively, for example, the tolerance ring may have three or more projection rows. The tolerance ring has a first end and a second end provided with a half-peak projection. Alternatively, the tolerance ring may have a structure in which no projections including a half-peak projection are provided at the first end and the second end. Alternatively, the tolerance ring may have a structure in which a projection including a half-peak projection is provided at only one of the first end or the second end.

[0112] The sliding ring 6 is exemplified in which substantially the entire engaging portion 9 is provided at a position that avoids the projections 5 in the axial direction. The engaging portion 9 may be disposed so as not to overlap in the axial direction with the tops of the projections 5 that are crushed during press-fit assembly. Therefore, for example, the engaging portion 9 may partially overlap in the axial direction with the second edge portion 5d of the first projection row 5b or the first edge portion 5f of the second projection row 5e.

[0113] The sliding ring 6 is exemplified as being provided with one engagement portion 9 in the axial direction. Alternatively, for example, two or more engagement portions aligned in the axial direction may be provided on the sliding ring or the tolerance ring. Even when multiple engagement portions are provided, it is preferable that at least a portion of each of the engagement portions is provided at a position that avoids the protrusion 5 in the axial direction.

[0114] The tolerance ring assembly 1 is exemplified in which the sliding ring 6 is assembled with the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 at a 0° position and the engagement portion 9 also at a 0° position. The tolerance ring assembly 40 is exemplified in which the sliding ring 41 is assembled at a 180° position in which the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 is at a 0° position and the engagement portion 44 faces each other with the axial center C in between. The positional relationship between the joint (engaged portion) and the engagement portion of the tolerance ring is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a positional relationship spaced apart by an angle of 90°, 120°, or the like in the circumferential direction around the axial center C. The positional relationship disclosed herein is more preferable because it improves symmetry around the axial center C.

[0115] The tolerance ring and the sliding ring are exemplified in which the joints are normally open in the circumferential direction. Alternatively, either or both of the tolerance ring and the sliding ring may have a structure in which the joints are normally closed in the circumferential direction.

[0116] The materials of the tolerance ring, the sliding ring, and the engaging portion are not limited to those exemplified above and may be changed as appropriate. The surface of the sliding ring may or may not be coated with a solid lubricant coating, but coating with a solid lubricant coating can further enhance lubricity.

[0117] A configuration has been exemplified in which the ring body of the tolerance ring and the ring body of the sliding ring have approximately the same thickness. Alternatively, for example, the ring body of one of the tolerance ring or the sliding ring may be thicker than the other ring body. A configuration has been exemplified in which the ring body of the tolerance ring and the ring body of the sliding ring have approximately constant thickness. Alternatively, for example, the thickness of the ring body of the tolerance ring or the ring body of the sliding ring, or both, may vary in the circumferential direction or the axial direction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 1...Tolerance ring assembly (first embodiment) 2…Tolerance ring 3...Ring body, 3a...Outer circumferential surface, 3b...Inner circumferential surface, 3c...First end, 3d...Second end 3e...first edge, 3f...second edge, 3g...middle part 4…Abutment part (engaged part) 5...protrusion, 5a...half-mounted protrusion 5b...first projection row, 5c...first edge, 5d...second edge 5e...Second projection row, 5f...First edge, 5g...Second edge 6...Sliding ring 7...Ring body, 7a...Outer circumferential surface, 7b...Inner circumferential surface, 7c...First end, 7d...Second end 7e...first edge, 7f...second edge 8...Join section 9...Engagement part, 9a...Top part, 9b...First edge, 9c...Second edge 9d, 9e...hole 10...Tolerance ring assembly (second embodiment) 11…Tolerance ring 12: Ring body, 12a: Outer circumferential surface, 12b: Inner circumferential surface, 12c: First end 12d...second end, 12e...first edge, 12f...second edge, 12g...middle part 13...Abutment part (engaged part) 14...protrusion, 14a...half-mounted protrusion 14b...first projection row, 14c...first edge, 14d...second edge 14e...second projection row, 14f...first edge, 14g...second edge 15...Sliding ring 16: Ring body, 16a: Outer circumferential surface, 16b: Inner circumferential surface, 16c: First end 16d...second end, 16e...first edge, 16f...second edge 17...Abutment part 18...Engaging part, 18a...Top part, 18b...First edge part, 18c...Second edge part 18d, 18e...hole 20...Tolerance ring assembly (third embodiment) 21...Sliding ring 22... ring body, 22a... outer peripheral surface, 22b... inner peripheral surface, 22c... first end portion 22d... second end portion, 22e... first edge portion, 22f... second edge portion 23…Abutment part 24...Engaging part, 24a...First engaging part, 24b...Second engaging part, 24c...Top part 24d...first edge, 24e...second edge, 24f, 24g...hole 30... Tolerance ring assembly (fourth embodiment) 31...Sliding ring 32: Ring body, 32a: Outer circumferential surface, 32b: Inner circumferential surface, 32c: First end 32d...second end, 32e...first edge, 32f...second edge 33…Abutment part 34...engaging portion, 34a...top, 34b...first edge, 34c...second edge 34d…hole 40...Tolerance ring assembly (fifth embodiment) 41...Sliding ring 42: Ring body, 42a: Outer circumferential surface, 42b: Inner circumferential surface, 42c: First end 42d... second end portion, 42e... first edge portion, 42f... second edge portion 43...Abutment part 44...Engaging part, 44a...First engaging part, 44b...Second engaging part, 44c...Top part 44d...first edge portion, 44e...second edge portion 50...Tolerance ring assembly (sixth embodiment) 51…Tolerance ring 52: Ring body, 52a: Outer circumferential surface, 52b: Inner circumferential surface, 52c: First end 52d: second end portion, 52e: first edge portion, 52f: second edge portion 53...Abutment part (engaged part) 54...protrusion, 54a...half-mounted protrusion, 54b...first edge, 54c...second edge 55...Sliding ring 56: Ring body, 56a: Outer circumferential surface, 56b: Inner circumferential surface, 56c: First end 56d... second end portion, 56e... first edge portion, 56f... second edge portion 57...Abutment part 58...Engaging part, 58a...First engaging part, 58b...Second engaging part, 58c...Third engaging part 58d...Fourth engaging part, 58e...Top, 58f...First edge, 58g...Second edge 60... Tolerance ring assembly (seventh embodiment) 61…Tolerance ring 62...Through hole (engaged part), 62a...First end surface, 62b...Second end surface 63...Through hole 70... Tolerance ring assembly (eighth embodiment) 71…Tolerance Ring 72...Through hole (engaged part), 72a...First through hole, 72b...Second through hole 73...Sliding ring 74: Ring body, 74a: Outer circumferential surface, 74b: Inner circumferential surface, 74c: First end 74d...second end, 74e...first edge, 74f...second edge 75...Abutment part 76...Through hole (engaged part), 76a...First through hole, 76b...Second through hole 77: engagement portion, 77a: first engagement portion, 77b: second engagement portion, 77c: length 80... Tolerance ring assembly (ninth embodiment) 81...Sliding ring 82: Ring body, 82a: Outer circumferential surface, 82b: Inner circumferential surface, 82c: First end 82d... second end portion, 82e... first edge portion, 82f... second edge portion 83...Abutment part 84... key groove (recess, engaged portion), 84a... first end surface, 84b... second end surface 85: engagement portion, 85a: thickness C…Axis center

Claims

1. 1. A tolerance ring assembly, comprising: a tolerance ring having a protrusion protruding in a radial direction; a sliding ring radially opposed to the tolerance ring on a radially opposite side of the protrusion; A tolerance ring assembly having an engagement portion that engages two parts, the tolerance ring and the sliding ring, to restrict circumferential movement of the two parts.

2. 2. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 1, The engagement portion protrudes radially from one of the two components, The other of the two components is provided with an engaged portion into which the engaging portion is inserted.

3. 3. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 1 or 2, The tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body and a joint portion formed between both ends of the ring body in a circumferential direction, A tolerance ring assembly in which the engaging portion is inserted into the joint portion.

4. 4. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 3, the tolerance ring has the protrusions on both circumferential ends of the ring body, A tolerance ring assembly, wherein at least a portion of the engagement portion is provided at a position that avoids the protrusion in the axial direction.

5. 3. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 1 or 2, The tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body and a joint portion formed between both ends of the ring body in a circumferential direction, The sliding ring also has a cylindrical ring body and a joint portion formed between both ends of the ring body in the circumferential direction, A tolerance ring assembly in which the two parts are engaged by the engaging portion so that the joint portion of the tolerance ring and the joint portion of the sliding ring are adjacent in the radial direction.

6. 3. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 2, A tolerance ring assembly, wherein the engaged portion is a hole or recess formed in the other one of the two components.

7. 3. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 2, A tolerance ring assembly in which the engaging portion is inserted axially into the engaged portion.

8. 2. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 1, The engagement portion is a separate part from the two parts and is attached to one of the two parts.

9. 9. A tolerance ring assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8, A tolerance ring assembly, wherein the surface of the sliding ring is nitrided or plated.

10. 10. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 9, A tolerance ring assembly comprising: a solid lubricant coating covering the surface of the sliding ring.

11. 1. A tolerance ring assembly, comprising: a tolerance ring having a protrusion protruding in a radial direction; a sliding ring that faces the tolerance ring in the radial direction on the radially opposite side of the projection, A tolerance ring assembly, wherein the surface of the sliding ring is nitrided or plated.

12. 12. The tolerance ring assembly of claim 11, A tolerance ring assembly comprising: a solid lubricant coating covering the surface of the sliding ring.

Images