Spring device

Abstract

To provide a spring device which can receive torque around an axis with a simple structure.SOLUTION: A spring device is disposed between two members which enable relative displacement in a direction in which the two members move close to or separate from each other and elastically expands or contracts through relative displacement occurring between the two members. The spring device includes: a cylinder element; a rod element which is inserted into the cylinder element so as to enable relative displacement in an axial direction relative to the cylinder element; a spring element assembled to the tip pf the rod element and housed in the cylinder element; and a limiter element which is disposed between the cylinder element and the rod element, allows relative displacement of the rod element in the axial direction relative to the cylinder element, and limits relative displacement of the rod element in a circumferential direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a spring device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a vibration reduction mechanism for reducing the vibration of a multilayer structure. This vibration reduction mechanism installs a rotational inertia mass damper that operates by interlayer deformation and generates a rotational inertia mass by the rotation of a weight in an arbitrary layer of the multilayer structure, and installs an additional spring in series with this rotational inertia mass damper, and synchronizes the natural frequency determined by the rotational inertia mass and the additional spring with the natural frequency of the structure. Patent Document 2 discloses, as a rotational inertia mass damper, a screw conversion mechanism that converts the relative displacement between connecting portions generated by the vibration of a structure into rotational motion, a rotating cylinder as an inertia mass element to which the rotational motion generated by the screw conversion mechanism is transmitted, and an additional weight provided around the rotating cylinder and rotating together with the rotating cylinder 6. Patent Document 3 relates to a spring device configured with a plurality of disc springs, and discloses a spring device that can cope with both tensile force and compressive force generated between two members.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the case of a rotary inertia mass damper that rotates a weight in the axial direction (circumferential direction) using the screw conversion mechanism shown in Patent Document 2, when relative deformation of a building or the like is input to one end of the rotary inertia mass damper, the weight rotates by the screw conversion mechanism. When the weight rotates, a resistance force is generated in the axial direction, and a torque around the axis is also generated accordingly. When a spring device is connected in series to the rotary inertia mass damper, torque is also transmitted to the spring device. When a structure (for example, a rotation prevention mechanism) for receiving this torque is provided, the structure becomes complicated.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a spring device that can receive torque around an axis with a simple structure.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A spring device according to an aspect of the present invention is a spring device interposed between two members that can be relatively displaced in a direction of approaching and separating from each other, and that elastically expands and contracts due to the relative displacement generated between the two members. The spring device includes a cylinder element, a rod element inserted into the cylinder element so as to be relatively displaceable in the axial direction, a spring element assembled to the tip of the rod element and housed in the cylinder element, and a limiter element disposed between the cylinder element and the rod element, allowing the axial relative displacement of the rod element with respect to the cylinder element and restricting the circumferential relative displacement of the rod element.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the above aspect, it is possible to provide a spring device that can receive torque around an axis with a simple structure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

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Figure 6

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Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements such as "parallel", "orthogonal", "center", "coaxial", etc. not only strictly mean such arrangements and states, but also include arrangements and states that are relatively displaced with tolerances and angles and distances that can obtain the same function. In the drawings used in the following description, in order to make each member recognizable in size, the scale of each member may be appropriately changed and shown.

[0010] <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a spring device 1 according to the first embodiment, and is a view including the I-I cross-section of FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a view of the spring device 1 according to the first embodiment as seen from one axial direction (arrow II in FIG. 1). FIG. 3 is a view including the III-III cross-section of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a view including the IV-IV cross-section of FIG. 1. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4 together, the spring device 1 is interposed between two members (not shown) that can be relatively displaced in the direction of approaching and separating from each other, and elastically expands and contracts due to the relative displacement generated between the two members. For example, the spring device 1 functions as a spring element as a component of a vibration damping device.

[0011] The spring device 1 includes a cylinder element 2, a rod element 3 inserted into the cylinder element 2 so as to be axially relatively displaceable, a spring element 4 assembled to the tip of the rod element 3 and housed in the cylinder element 2, and disposed between the cylinder element 2 and the rod element 3, allowing axial relative displacement of the rod element 3 with respect to the cylinder element 2, and a limiter element 5 that restricts circumferential relative displacement of the rod element 3.

[0012] The axial direction is the direction along the central axis CL of the rod element 3, and the circumferential direction is the direction of orbiting around the central axis CL (direction around the axis). Hereinafter, the direction orthogonal to the central axis CL is referred to as the "radial direction".

[0013] In the example of FIG. 1, the spring device 1 is arranged horizontally so that the central axis CL is along the horizontal direction, but it is not limited to this. For example, the spring device 1 may be arranged vertically so that the central axis CL is along the vertical direction. For example, the spring device 1 may be arranged so that the central axis CL intersects each of the horizontal direction and the vertical direction. The arrangement mode of the spring device 1 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0014] The cylinder element 2 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape. The cylinder element 2 includes an outer cylinder 10 formed in a cylindrical shape along the axial direction, a lid body 11 formed in an annular shape that opens at one axial end side of the outer cylinder 10 and is fixed to one axial end portion of the outer cylinder 10, and a first end plate 12 formed in a disk shape that closes the other axial end side of the outer cylinder 10 and is fixed to the other axial end portion of the outer cylinder 10. An opening for maintenance or the like may be provided in the first end plate 12.

[0015] The inner peripheral edge (the innermost diameter of the opening) of the lid body 11 is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer cylinder 10 and is sized to be larger than the outer diameter of the inner cylinder 31 so that the inner cylinder 31 of the cylindrical member 30 can enter. An annular portion (hereinafter referred to as "annular portion 11a") where the end portion of the spring element 4 can abut is formed on the surface of the lid body 11 that is inside the inner diameter of the outer cylinder 10 and faces the spring element 4.

[0016] In the example of FIG. 4, the lid body 11 is fastened to one axial end portion of the outer cylinder 10 by six bolts arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but it is not limited to this. For example, the number of bolts may be five or less or seven or more. For example, the lid body 11 may be welded to one axial end portion of the outer cylinder 10. The fixing mode of the lid body 11 to the outer cylinder 10 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0017] Although not shown in the drawings, the first end plate 12 may be provided with a connecting portion so that one of the two members that can be relatively displaced in the direction of approaching and separating from each other can be directly connected or connected via a buffer device such as an oil damper. In the example of FIG. 1, the first end plate 12 is fastened to the other axial end of the outer cylinder 10 with a plurality (only two are shown in the figure) of bolts, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the first end plate 12 may be welded to the other axial end of the outer cylinder 10. The fixing mode of the first end plate 12 to the outer cylinder 10 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0018] The rod element 3 includes a rod body 20 extending in the axial direction, a tip stopper 21 attached to the tip of the rod body 20 and housed in the cylinder element 2, and is housed in a cylindrical member 30 configured to be axially displaceable relative to the cylinder element 2, and is integrally formed of the same member as the rod body 20 and a base end stopper 22 that projects radially outward from the base end of the rod body 20.

[0019] The rod body 20 is formed in a columnar shape along the axial direction. The tip stopper 21 is formed in a disk shape with a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the rod body 20. The outer peripheral edge of the tip stopper 21 is sized to be close to or in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder 10. An annular portion (hereinafter referred to as "annular portion 21a") where the end of the spring element 4 abuts is formed at the portion of the tip stopper 21 facing the spring element 4.

[0020] In the example of FIG. 1, the tip stopper 21 is fastened to the tip of the rod body 20 with a plurality (only two are shown in the figure) of bolts, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the tip stopper 21 may be welded to the tip of the rod body 20. The fixing mode of the tip stopper 21 to the rod body 20 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0021] The base end stopper 22 is formed in an annular shape with a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the rod body 20 and smaller than the inner peripheral edge (the innermost diameter of the opening) of the lid body 11. The outer peripheral edge of the base end stopper 22 is sized to be close to or in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 35 of the inner cylinder 31. In a portion on the inner side in the axial direction of the base end stopper 22 (the portion facing the inner convex portion 36 of the inner cylinder 31), an annular portion (hereinafter referred to as "annular portion 22a") with which the inner convex portion 36 of the inner cylinder 31 abuts is formed.

[0022] The cylindrical member 30 includes an inner cylinder 31 into which the base end stopper 22 is inserted so as to be relatively displaceable in the axial direction, and a second end plate 32 formed in a disc shape for closing one axial end side of the inner cylinder 31 and fixed to one axial end portion of the inner cylinder 31.

[0023] On the surface of the inner cylinder 31 facing the spring element 4, an annular portion (hereinafter referred to as "annular portion 31a") that can abut against the end portion of the spring element 4 when entering the outer cylinder 10 is formed. The inner cylinder 31 includes a cylindrical portion 35 formed in a cylindrical shape along the axial direction, and an inner convex portion 36 that is formed integrally with the same member as the cylindrical portion 35 and protrudes radially inward from the other axial end portion of the cylindrical portion 35 so as to form an annular shape that opens to the other axial end side of the inner cylinder 31.

[0024] The inner peripheral edge (the innermost diameter of the opening) of the inner convex portion 36 is smaller than the outer diameter of the base end stopper 22 so that the base end stopper 22 does not come off, and is sized to be equal to or larger than the outer diameter of the rod body 20 so that the rod body 20 can be inserted therethrough. On the surface of the inner convex portion 36 facing the base end stopper 22, an annular portion (hereinafter referred to as "annular portion 36a") with which the annular portion 22a of the base end stopper 22 can abut is formed.

[0025] In the example of FIG. 1, the inner cylinder 31 includes the inner convex portion 36 formed integrally with the same member as the cylindrical portion 35, but is not limited thereto. For example, the inner cylinder 31 may include a lid body formed in an annular shape that opens to the other axial end side of the cylindrical portion 35 and fixed to the other axial end portion of the cylindrical portion 35. For example, the configuration mode of the inner cylinder 31 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0026] Although not shown, the second end plate 32 may be provided with a connecting portion so that the other of the two members that can be relatively displaced in the direction of approaching and separating from each other can be directly connected or connected via a buffer device such as an oil damper. For example, the second end plate 32 may be formed with holes (six holes are shown in the figure) for attaching a connecting portion or the like.

[0027] In the example of FIG. 2, the second end plate 32 is fastened to one axial end of the inner cylinder 31 by six bolts arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the number of bolts may be five or less or seven or more. For example, the second end plate 32 may be welded to one axial end of the inner cylinder 31. The fixing mode of the second end plate 32 to the inner cylinder 31 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0028] Note that the second end plate 32 has a function of providing a connecting portion and preventing the intrusion of dust or the like into the inner cylinder 31. When the connecting portion is provided on the inner cylinder 31, the second end plate 32 does not need to be installed. The installation mode of the second end plate 32 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0029] The spring element 4 includes a plurality of disc springs 40 stacked in series. In the example of FIG. 1, the spring element 4 includes 16 disc springs 40 stacked in series, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the number of disc springs 40 may be 15 or less or 17 or more. For example, the spring element 4 may be configured by arranging the disc springs 40 in parallel or in a combination of parallel and series. As in the example of FIG. 1, the deformation characteristics can be increased by adopting a series arrangement in which the disc springs 40 are stacked in opposite directions. On the other hand, the endurance can be increased by adopting a parallel arrangement in which the disc springs 40 are stacked in the same direction. Therefore, in the spring device 1 provided with the disc springs 40, it can be arbitrarily designed so as to obtain desired spring characteristics.

[0030] Pressing plates 41 and 42 may be provided at both ends of the spring element 4 so as to evenly transmit the pressing force applied from the annular portion 21a of the tip stopper 21, the annular portion 11a of the lid body 11, and the annular portion 31a of the inner cylinder 31 to the disc spring 40. Hereinafter, one of the pressing plates 41 and 42 provided at both ends of the spring element 4 (the left side in FIG. 1) is also referred to as the "first pressing plate 41", and the other (the right side in FIG. 1) is also referred to as the "second pressing plate 42".

[0031] The limiter element 5 is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction at the base end portion of the rod element 3. An outer concave portion 11b that is recessed outward in the radial direction is formed in a portion of the cylinder element 2 corresponding to the limiter element 5. The outer surface of the limiter element 5 is arranged so as to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the outer concave portion 11b.

[0032] The outer concave portion 11b is formed in the inner peripheral portion of the lid body 11. The outer concave portion 11b includes a bottom surface along the tangential direction in the circumferential direction as viewed from the axial direction, and two side surfaces along a direction orthogonal to the bottom surface and parallel to each other. The limiter element 5 is a rectangular parallelepiped member having a longitudinal direction in the axial direction. The outer surface of the limiter element 5 is arranged so as to be close to or in contact with the bottom surface and both side surfaces of the outer concave portion 11b.

[0033] An inner concave portion 31b that is recessed inward in the radial direction is formed in a portion of the inner cylinder 31 corresponding to the outer concave portion 11b. In the example of FIG. 4, the combined shape of the inner concave portion 31b and the outer concave portion 11b is a rectangular shape having a longitudinal direction in the tangential direction in the circumferential direction as viewed from the axial direction. The shape of the limiter element 5 as viewed from the axial direction is also a rectangular shape having a longitudinal direction in the tangential direction in the circumferential direction. Note that the shapes of the concave portions 11b and 31b and the limiter element 5 are not limited to the above, and can be changed according to the design specifications. Also, the shape of the concave portion 31b can be a planar shape only in the tangential direction in the circumferential direction.

[0034] The respective recesses 11b, 31b and the limiter elements 5 are arranged in a plurality with circumferential intervals therebetween. In the example of FIG. 4, the respective recesses 11b, 31b and the limiter elements 5 are arranged at equal circumferential intervals, four in number, but not limited thereto. For example, the respective recesses 11b, 31b and the limiter elements 5 may be arranged three or less or five or more in number, or may be arranged in a plurality with unequal circumferential intervals. The arrangement mode of the respective recesses 11b, 31b and the limiter elements 5 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0035] The limiter element 5 is fixed to the inner cylinder 31 in a state where the radially inner portion is accommodated in the inner recess 31b. In the example of FIG. 1, the limiter element 5 is fastened to the inner cylinder 31 by four bolts arranged at equal axial intervals, but not limited thereto. For example, the number of bolts may be three or less or five or more. For example, the limiter element 5 may be welded or adhered to the inner cylinder 31. The fixing mode of the limiter element 5 to the inner cylinder 31 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0036] The material constituting the limiter element 5 can be arbitrarily selected according to the place where the spring device 1 is applied. The limiter element 5 can include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of thermosetting resins such as phenolic resins, fluororesins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), oil-impregnated plastics obtained by dispersing lubricating oil in base polymers such as polyacetal (for example, oil-impregnated polyacetal resin), engineering plastics such as monomer cast nylon, and / or mixtures thereof, and preferably includes a material having excellent wear resistance, strength and rigidity from the viewpoint of allowing the axial relative displacement of the rod element 3 with respect to the cylinder element 2 and restricting the circumferential relative displacement of the rod element 3.

[0037] Note that the limiter element 5 is not limited to the above, and may be constituted by a rolling bearing. The configuration mode of the limiter element 5 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0038] Next, the operation of the spring device 1 when a compressive force and a tensile force act on the spring device 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the spring device 1 according to the first embodiment, and shows the normal state (the state at the neutral position). FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the spring device 1 according to the first embodiment, and shows the case where a compressive force is generated between the two members. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of the spring device 1 according to the first embodiment, and shows the case where a tensile force is generated between the two members.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7 together, among the pressing plates 41 and 42 provided at both ends of the spring element 4, the first pressing plate 41 is always in contact with the annular portion 21a of the tip stopper 21. Referring to FIG. 5, in a state where there is no displacement between the two members in which the spring device 1 is interposed, the annular portion 11a of the lid body 11 and the annular portion 31a of the inner cylinder 31 are in contact with the second pressing plate 42. In this state, the annular portion 22a of the base end stopper 22 is in contact with the annular portion 36a of the inner convex portion 36, so that the inner convex portion 36 is sandwiched between the spring element 4 and the base end stopper 22. As a result, the spring device 1 is maintained in a stable state without rattling as a whole.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 6, when the two members are relatively displaced in the approaching direction, the inner cylinder 31 enters the outer cylinder 10, and the annular portion 21a of the tip stopper 21 compresses the spring element 4 via the first pressing plate 41 via the second pressing plate 42.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 7, when the two members are relatively displaced in the separating direction, the annular portion 36a of the inner convex portion 36 engages with the annular portion 22a of the base end stopper 22, so that the annular portion 21a of the tip stopper 21 connected to the rod body 20 integrated with the base end stopper 22 compresses the spring element 4 via the first pressing plate 41, and the annular portion 11a of the lid body 11 compresses the spring element 4 via the second pressing plate 42.

[0042] In this way, when the inner cylinder 31 enters the outer cylinder 10, the spring element 4 is pressed, and the annular portion 36a of the inner convex portion 36 engages with the annular portion 22a of the base end stopper 22, so that the tip stopper 21 presses the spring element 4.

[0043] Next, an installation example of the spring device 1 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an installation example of the spring device 1 according to the first embodiment. Referring also to FIG. 8, a plurality of spring devices 1 may be arranged side by side in a predetermined installation area. In the example of the figure, when viewed from the axial direction, four spring devices 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4 each having a cylindrical outer cylinder 10 are arranged in two rows and two columns in a rectangular installation area, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the shape of the installation area may be circular or annular. For example, the number of installed spring devices 1 may be three or less, or five or more. The installation mode of the spring device 1 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0044] <Operational Effect> As described above, the spring device 1 of the present embodiment is a spring device that is interposed between two members that can be relatively displaced in the direction of approaching and separating from each other, and elastically expands and contracts due to the relative displacement generated between the two members. The spring device 1 includes a cylinder element 2, a rod element 3 inserted into the cylinder element 2 so as to be axially relatively displaceable, a spring element 4 assembled to the tip of the rod element 3 and housed in the cylinder element 2, and a limiter element 5 disposed between the cylinder element 2 and the rod element 3, which allows the axial relative displacement of the rod element 3 with respect to the cylinder element 2 and restricts the circumferential relative displacement of the rod element 3. According to this configuration, by providing the limiter element 5 that restricts the circumferential relative displacement of the rod element 3, even when torque around the axis is generated due to relative deformation occurring between the two members, this torque can be received by the spring device 1 (limiter element 5). In addition, since a new structure for receiving this torque (for example, an anti-rotation mechanism provided separately from the spring device 1) is not required, simplification is possible. Therefore, it is possible to provide a spring device 1 that can receive torque around the axis with a simple structure.

[0045] In this embodiment, the limiter element 5 is provided only at a part in the circumferential direction at the base end portion of the rod element 3. An outer concave portion 11b that is recessed outward in the radial direction is formed in a portion of the cylinder element 2 corresponding to the limiter element 5. The outer surface of the limiter element 5 is disposed so as to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the outer concave portion 11b. According to this configuration, even when torque about the axis is received, the outer surface of the limiter element 5 and the inner surface of the outer concave portion 11b come into contact with each other, so that rotation can be prevented. In addition, compared with the case where the limiter element 5 is provided over the entire circumferential direction of the base end portion of the rod element 3, since the installation location of the limiter element 5 is less, it contributes to cost reduction. Further, even when the limiter element 5 is repaired, it suffices to repair only a part in the circumferential direction, so that it can be easily dealt with.

[0046] In this embodiment, the rod element 3 includes a rod main body 20 that extends in the axial direction, a tip stopper 21 that is attached to the tip end portion of the rod main body 20 and is housed in the cylinder element 2, and a base end stopper 22 that is housed in a cylindrical member 30 configured to be axially relatively displaceable with respect to the cylinder element 2, is integrally formed of the same member as the rod main body 20, and projects radially outward from the base end portion of the rod main body 20. According to this configuration, compared with the case where a stopper is attached to the base end portion of the rod main body 20 (the case where a stopper is provided as a separate member from the rod main body 20), the number of components can be reduced, which contributes to cost reduction. Further, since the work of attaching the stopper to the base end portion of the rod main body 20 is not required, the work efficiency can be improved.

[0047] <Second Embodiment> Hereinafter, the spring device 201 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 13. In the configurations shown in FIGS. 9 to 13, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the above-described embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the spring device 201 according to the second embodiment and includes the IX-IX cross-section of FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a view of the spring device 201 according to the second embodiment as seen from one axial direction (arrow X in FIG. 9). FIG. 11 is a view including the XI-XI cross-section of FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a view including the XII-XII cross-section of FIG. 9.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12 together, the spring device 201 includes a cylinder element 202, a rod element 3, a spring element 4, and a limiter element 5. The cylinder element 202 includes a columnar member 210 provided only in a part of the circumferential direction and extending parallel to the axial direction.

[0049] When viewed from the axial direction of FIG. 11, the columnar member 210 includes a first surface (radially inner surface, hereinafter also simply referred to as "inner surface") along the tangential direction of the circumferential direction, a second surface (radially outer surface) parallel to the first surface and shorter than the first surface, a third surface and a fourth surface along a direction orthogonal to the first surface and parallel to each other, and a fifth surface and a sixth surface inclined with respect to the third surface and the fourth surface, respectively. The columnar member 210 is a hexagonal columnar member having a longitudinal direction in the axial direction.

[0050] The cylinder element 202 includes a plurality of columnar members 210, a lid body 211 that opens annularly at one axial end side and has a rectangular outer shape (square shown in FIG. 12) when viewed from the axial direction and is fixed to one axial end portion of the columnar member 210, and a first end plate 212 formed in a rectangular plate shape (square shown in FIG. 11) that closes the other axial end side and is fixed to the other axial end portion of the columnar member 210.

[0051] When viewed from the axial direction shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the columnar members 210 are arranged at the four corners of each of the lid body 211 and the first end plate 212 so that the fifth surface and the sixth surface that are inclined respectively are along two sides of each of the rectangular lid body 211 and the first end plate 212. In the example of the figure, four columnar members 210 are provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the number of columnar members 210 may be 3 or less, or may be 5 or more. The shape and number of the columnar members 210 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0052] In the example of FIG. 12, the lid body 211 is fastened to one axial end of the column member 210 with one bolt for each of the four column members 210 arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the number of bolts may be two or more for one column member 210. For example, the lid body 211 may be welded to one axial end of the column member 210. The fixing mode of the lid body 211 to the column member 210 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0053] Although not shown, the first end plate 212 may be provided with a connecting portion so that one of the two members that can be relatively displaced in the direction of approaching and separating from each other can be directly connected or connected via a buffer device such as an oil damper. In the example of FIG. 9, the first end plate 212 is fastened to the other axial end of the column member 210 with one bolt for each of the four column members 210 arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the number of bolts may be two or more for one column member 210. For example, the first end plate 212 may be welded to the other axial end of the column member 210. The fixing mode of the first end plate 212 to the column member 210 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 together, the cylindrical member 230 includes an inner cylinder 31 into which the base end stopper 22 is inserted so as to be axially relatively displaceable, and a second end plate 232 formed in a rectangular plate shape (square shown in FIG. 10) that closes one axial end side of the inner cylinder 31 and fixed to one axial end of the inner cylinder 31.

[0055] Although not shown, the second end plate 232 may be provided with a connecting portion so that the other of the two members that can be relatively displaced in the direction of approaching and separating from each other can be directly connected or connected via a buffer device such as an oil damper. For example, holes (four holes are shown in FIG. 10) for attaching a connecting portion or the like may be formed in the second end plate 232.

[0056] In the example of FIG. 10, the second end plate 232 is fastened to one axial end of the inner cylinder 31 by six bolts arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but it is not limited to this. For example, the number of bolts may be five or less, or seven or more. For example, the second end plate 232 may be welded to one axial end of the inner cylinder 31. The fixing mode of the second end plate 232 to the inner cylinder 31 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0057] Note that the second end plate 232 is provided with a connecting portion and functions to prevent the intrusion of dust and the like into the inner cylinder 31. When the connecting portion is provided on the inner cylinder 31 for the second end plate 232, etc., it is not necessary to install it. The installation mode of the second end plate 232 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0058] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 11 together, the spring device 201 further includes a slider element 206 fixed to a portion facing the column member 210 at the tip of the rod element 3. The outer surface of the slider element 206 is slidable with respect to the inner surface of the column member 210.

[0059] The slider element 206 is fixed to the outer periphery of the tip stopper 21. The slider element 206 includes an inner surface along the outer periphery of the tip stopper 21 as viewed in the axial direction, an outer surface along the inner surface of the column member 210, and two side surfaces along a direction orthogonal to the outer surface and parallel to each other. The outer surface of the slider element 206 is arranged to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the column member 210.

[0060] The outer surface of the slider element 206 is smaller than the inner surface of the column member 210 as viewed in the axial direction. Both ends of the outer surface of the slider element 206 are located inside both ends of the inner surface of the column member 210 as viewed in the axial direction. For example, it is preferable to arrange the outer surface of the slider element 206 within the range of the inner surface of the column member 210 so as to allow dimensional errors and assembly variations of the slider element 206. Note that the outer surface of the slider element 206 may be larger than or equal to the inner surface of the column member 210 as viewed in the axial direction. The shape and the like of the slider element 206 are not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0061] The slider elements 206 are arranged in a plurality at circumferentially spaced intervals corresponding to the column members 210. In the example of FIG. 11, four slider elements 206 are arranged at equal circumferential intervals, but the number is not limited to this. For example, three or less or five or more slider elements 206 may be arranged, or a plurality of slider elements 206 may be arranged at unequal circumferential intervals. The arrangement mode of the slider elements 206 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0062] The slider element 206 is fastened to the tip stopper 21 with bolts (not shown), but is not limited to this. For example, the slider element 206 may be welded or adhered to the tip stopper 21. The fixing mode of the slider element 206 to the tip stopper 21 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0063] The material constituting the slider element 206 can be arbitrarily selected according to the place where the spring device 201 is applied. For example, the slider element 206 may be composed of the same member as the limiter element 5. The slider element 206 can include one or more materials selected from the group consisting of thermosetting resins such as phenolic resins, fluororesins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), oil-impregnated plastics obtained by dispersing lubricating oil in base polymers such as polyacetal (for example, oil-impregnated polyacetal resin), engineering plastics such as monomer cast nylon, and / or mixtures thereof, and preferably includes a material having excellent wear resistance and excellent strength and rigidity from the viewpoint of sliding against the inner surface of the column member 210.

[0064] In addition, the slider element 206 is not limited to the above, and may be composed of a rolling bearing. The configuration mode of the slider element 206 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0065] Next, an installation example of the spring device 201 will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an installation example of the spring device 201 according to the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 13 together, a plurality of spring devices 201 may be arranged side by side in a predetermined installation area. In the example of the figure, when viewed from the axial direction, four spring devices 201-1, 201-2, 201-3, and 201-4 having a rectangular outer shape are arranged in two rows and two columns in a rectangular installation area, but it is not limited to this. For example, the shape of the installation area may be circular or annular. For example, the number of installed spring devices 201 may be three or less, or five or more. The installation mode of the spring device 201 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0066] <Function and effect> As described above, in this embodiment, the cylinder element 202 is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction and includes a columnar member 210 extending parallel to the axial direction. According to this configuration, compared with the case where a cylindrical portion is provided in the entire circumferential direction (when the periphery of the spring element 4 is covered with a cylindrical portion), the installation area of the spring device 201 can be reduced, which contributes to space saving. For example, when the required spring constant is large and a plurality of spring devices 201 are to be installed, it is preferable because the installation area can be reduced.

[0067] In this embodiment, the spring device 201 further includes a slider element 206 fixed to a portion facing the columnar member 210 at the tip of the rod element 3. The outer surface of the slider element 206 is slidable with respect to the inner surface of the columnar member 210. According to this configuration, compared with the case where the slider element 206 is provided in the entire circumferential direction at the tip of the rod element 3, the installation location of the slider element 206 is less, which contributes to cost reduction. Also, even when repairing the slider element 206, it is only necessary to deal with a part of the circumferential direction, so it can be easily handled.

[0068] <Third Embodiment> Hereinafter, the spring device 301 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 16. In the configurations shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the same components as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the detailed description thereof is omitted. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the spring device 301 according to the third embodiment, and is a view including a cross-section corresponding to FIG. 3.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 14, the spring device 301 includes a cylinder element 302, a rod element 3, a spring element 4, and a limiter element 5 (not shown). The spring device 301 has a hexagonal outer shape when viewed from the axial direction. The cylinder element 302 includes a columnar member 310 provided only in a part of the circumferential direction and extending parallel to the axial direction.

[0070] The columnar member 310 includes an inner surface along the tangential direction of the circumferential direction when viewed from the axial direction, an outer surface parallel to and having the same length as the inner surface, and two side surfaces along a direction orthogonal to the inner surface and parallel to each other. The columnar member 310 is a rectangular parallelepiped member having a longitudinal direction in the axial direction.

[0071] The cylinder element 302 includes a plurality of columnar members 310, a lid body (not shown) that opens annularly at one end side in the axial direction, has a hexagonal outer shape when viewed from the axial direction, and is fixed to one axial end portion of the columnar member 310, and a first end plate 312 formed in a hexagonal plate shape that closes the other end side in the axial direction and is fixed to the other axial end portion of the columnar member 310. Although not shown, a second end plate that closes one axial end side of the inner cylinder of the cylindrical member is also formed in a hexagonal plate shape.

[0072] The columnar member 310 is arranged at three side portions of each of the lid body and the first end plate 312 so that the outer surface is along one side of each of the hexagonal lid body and the first end plate 312 when viewed from the axial direction. In the example of the figure, three columnar members 310 are provided, but it is not limited to this. For example, the number of columnar members 310 may be two or less, or four or more. The shape and number of columnar members 310 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0073] The spring device 301 further includes a slider element 306 fixed to a portion facing the columnar member 310 at the tip of the rod element 3. The outer surface of the slider element 306 is slidable with respect to the inner surface of the columnar member 310.

[0074] The slider element 306 is fixed to the outer peripheral portion of a tip stopper 21 (not shown). The slider element 306 includes, when viewed in the axial direction, an inner surface along the outer periphery of the tip stopper 21, an outer surface along the inner surface of the column member 310, and two side surfaces that extend along a direction orthogonal to the outer surface and are parallel to each other. The outer surface of the slider element 306 is arranged so as to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the column member 310.

[0075] The outer surface of the slider element 306 is smaller than the inner surface of the column member 310 when viewed in the axial direction. Both ends of the outer surface of the slider element 306 are located inside both ends of the inner surface of the column member 310 when viewed in the axial direction. For example, it is preferable to arrange the outer surface of the slider element 306 within the range of the inner surface of the column member 310 so as to allow for dimensional errors, assembly variations, etc. of the slider element 306. Note that the outer surface of the slider element 306 may be larger than or equal to the inner surface of the column member 310 when viewed in the axial direction. The shape, etc. of the slider element 306 is not limited to the above and can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0076] A plurality of slider elements 306 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction corresponding to the column member 310. In the example of the figure, three slider elements 306 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, but it is not limited to this. For example, two or less or four or more slider elements 306 may be arranged, or a plurality of slider elements 306 may be arranged at unequal intervals in the circumferential direction. The arrangement mode of the slider elements 306 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0077] Next, an installation example of the spring device 301 will be described. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a first installation example of the spring device 301 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a second installation example of the spring device 301 according to the third embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16 together, a plurality of spring devices 301 may be arranged side by side in a predetermined installation area. In the example of FIG. 15, when there is an obstacle at the central portion (the portion indicated by the dashed circle) in a rectangular installation area when viewed in the axial direction, four spring devices 301-1, 301-2, 301-3, and 301-4 having a hexagonal outer shape are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction.

[0078] In the example of FIG. 16, when viewed from the axial direction, six spring devices 301, 301-2, 301-3, 301-4, 301-5, 301-6 having a hexagonal outer shape are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction in a circular installation area. By installing a plurality of spring devices 301 in this way, even when there is an obstacle or the like at the center of the installation area, it can be installed in a space-saving manner, which is preferable.

[0079] Note that the shape of the installation area is not limited to the above, and it may be annular. For example, the number of spring devices 301 installed may be 3 or less, 5, or 7 or more. The installation mode of the spring device 301 can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0080] <Function and effect> As described above, in the present embodiment, the cylinder element 302 is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction and includes a columnar member 310 extending parallel to the axial direction. According to this configuration, compared with the case where a cylindrical portion is provided in the entire circumferential direction (when the periphery of the spring element 4 is covered by the cylindrical portion), not only does it contribute to space saving when a plurality are installed, but also compared with the case where a plurality are installed as shown in FIG. 13, the shape of the required space, for example, when there is an obstacle at the center in a rectangular shape as shown in FIG. 15, or when it is a circular shape as shown in FIG. 16, or when there is an obstacle at the center in a circular shape, a plurality of them can be suitably arranged according to various space requirements.

[0081] In the present embodiment, the spring device 301 further includes a slider element 306 fixed to a portion facing the columnar member 310 at the tip of the rod element 3. The outer surface of the slider element 306 is slidable with respect to the inner surface of the columnar member 310. According to this configuration, compared with the case where the slider element 306 is provided in the entire circumferential direction at the tip of the rod element 3, since the installation location of the slider element 306 is small, it contributes to cost reduction. Also, even when repairing the slider element 306, it is only necessary for a part of the circumferential direction, so it can be easily dealt with.

[0082] <Modification Example> In the above-described embodiment, the limiter element is provided only at a part in the circumferential direction at the base end portion of the rod element, and an outer concave portion that is recessed outward in the radial direction is formed in a portion of the cylinder element corresponding to the limiter element, and the outer surface of the limiter element is arranged so as to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the outer concave portion. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the limiter element may be provided only at a part in the circumferential direction at the opening portion of the cylinder element, and an inner concave portion that is recessed inward in the radial direction may be formed in a portion of the rod element corresponding to the limiter element, and the inner surface of the limiter element may be arranged so as to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the inner concave portion. For example, the limiter element may be provided so as to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of a concave portion formed in one of the rod element and / or the cylinder element. The installation mode of the limiter element can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0083] In the above-described embodiment, the rod element includes a rod body extending in the axial direction, a tip stopper attached to the tip end portion of the rod body and housed in the cylinder element, and a base end stopper that is housed in a cylindrical member configured to be axially displaceable relative to the cylinder element and is integrally formed of the same member as the rod body and projects radially outward from the base end portion of the rod body. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the rod element may not include a cylindrical member. For example, the other of the two members may be directly or indirectly connected to the base end portion of the rod element. The configuration mode of the rod element can be changed according to the design specifications.

[0084] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these, and additions, omissions, substitutions, and other changes of the configuration are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and it is also possible to appropriately combine the above-described embodiments.

[0085] (Appendix 1) A spring device interposed between two members that are relatively displaceable in a direction of approaching and separating from each other and that elastically expands and contracts due to the relative displacement occurring between the two members, a cylinder element, a rod element inserted axially displaceably relative to the cylinder element, a spring element assembled to the tip of the rod element and housed in the cylinder element, and a limiter element disposed between the cylinder element and the rod element, allowing the axial relative displacement of the rod element with respect to the cylinder element and restricting the circumferential relative displacement of the rod element. A spring device.

[0086] (Appendix 2) The limiter element is provided only at a part of the circumferential direction at the base end of the rod element, and an outer concave portion recessed radially outward is formed in a portion of the cylinder element corresponding to the limiter element. The outer surface of the limiter element is arranged to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the outer concave portion. The spring device according to Appendix 1.

[0087] (Appendix 3) The cylinder element includes a columnar member provided only at a part of the circumferential direction and extending parallel to the axial direction. The spring device according to Appendix 1 or 2.

[0088] (Appendix 4) The spring device further includes a slider element fixed to a portion of the tip of the rod element facing the columnar member, and the outer surface of the slider element is slidable with respect to the inner surface of the columnar member. The spring device according to Appendix 3.

[0089] (Appendix 5) The rod element includes a rod body extending in the axial direction, and a tip stopper attached to the tip of the rod body and housed in the cylinder element. It is housed in a cylindrical member configured to be relatively displaceable in the axial direction with respect to the cylinder element, and is integrally formed of the same member as the rod body and projects radially outward from the base end portion of the rod body, and includes a base end stopper. The spring device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 4.

Explanation of symbols

[0090] 1,201,301... spring device, 2,202,302... cylinder element, 3... rod element, 4... spring element, 5... limiter element, 11b... outer recess, 20... rod body, 21... tip stopper, 22... base end stopper, 30,230... cylindrical member, 210,310... column material, 206,306... slider element

Claims

1. A spring device interposed between two members that can be relatively displaced in a direction of approaching and separating from each other, and elastically expanding and contracting due to the relative displacement occurring between the two members, a cylinder element, a rod element inserted axially displaceably relative to the cylinder element, a spring element assembled to the tip of the rod element and housed in the cylinder element, and a limiter element disposed between the cylinder element and the rod element, allowing the axial relative displacement of the rod element with respect to the cylinder element and restricting the circumferential relative displacement of the rod element. The spring device.

2. The limiter element is provided only at a part of the circumferential direction at the base end portion of the rod element, an outer concave portion that is recessed radially outward is formed in a portion of the cylinder element corresponding to the limiter element, The outer surface of the limiter element is arranged to be close to or in contact with the inner surface of the outer concave portion. The spring device according to claim 1.

3. The cylinder element is provided only at a part of the circumferential direction and includes a columnar member extending parallel to the axial direction. The spring device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. Further comprising a slider element fixed to a portion of the tip of the rod element facing the columnar member, The outer surface of the slider element is made slidable with respect to the inner surface of the columnar member. The spring device according to claim 3.

5. The rod element a rod body extending in the axial direction, a tip stopper attached to the tip of the rod body and housed in the cylinder element, housed in a cylindrical member configured to be relatively displaceable in the axial direction with respect to the cylinder element, and integrally formed of the same member as the rod body and projecting radially outward from the base end portion of the rod body, and a base end stopper, The spring device according to claim 1 or 2.

Images