Wheel bearing device

Abstract

To provide a wheel bearing device 1 that can easily engaging a fastening bolt by performing temporary assembly with use of a temporary fastening component when supporting a face spline with pressure-welding.SOLUTION: A wheel bearing device 1 comprises an outer ring 2, a hub ring 3 and an inner ring 4, a ball 5, and a constant velocity universal joint 20. An inner side end of the hub ring 3 is provided with a caulking part 11, a face spline 11a, 25a is formed on an inner side end face of the caulking part 11 and a shoulder 25 of the constant velocity universal joint 20, a connection part 26 is provided on an outer side of the constant velocity universal joint 20, and a temporary fastening component 30 is provided between an inner diameter of the caulking part 11 and an outer diameter of the connection part 26 of the constant velocity universal joint 20. Movement of the temporary fastening component 30 in an axial direction is restricted by a first step part 26b having a diameter smaller than a shaft diameter of an outer side end outer diameter of the connection part 26 of the constant velocity universal joint 20, and a second step part 11c having a diameter larger than an inner side end inner diameter of the caulking part 11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a technology for a wheel bearing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, double-row angular contact ball bearings have been commonly used as bearing assemblies for automobile wheels, and include an outer member, an inner member, and balls held in raceways formed on the outer member and the inner member, respectively.

[0003] A flange is formed at one end of the inner member, and a tire wheel, brake disc, etc. (not shown) are attached to the flange. A fixing flange is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer member for attachment to a vehicle body member (not shown) supported by the vehicle suspension system.

[0004] The rotational driving force of the drive shaft is transmitted to the inner member via a constant velocity universal joint. One known method for transmitting the rotational driving force involves forming a spline tooth portion (face spline) on a crimped portion for fixing the inner member, and engaging this spline tooth portion with teeth (face spline) formed on the end face of the outer ring of the constant velocity joint (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The two face splines are assembled by supporting both face splines in a pressure-welded manner with a fastening bolt. While conventional constant velocity universal joints have splines formed on the shank (stem portion), the face spline is formed on the crimped portion of the inner member, eliminating the need for a shank (stem portion) of the constant velocity universal joint. This eliminates the need for a constant velocity universal joint because the length required is only that of the portion where the fastening bolt is threaded, thereby reducing the axial length and weight. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5556509 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when assembling the two face splines, it is necessary to support the constant velocity universal joint with the face spline of the constant velocity universal joint abutting against the face spline of the crimped portion until the fastening bolt is screwed in. In the case of a typical structure in which a spline is formed on the shaft portion (stem portion) of the constant velocity universal joint, temporary assembly is completed when the shaft portion of the constant velocity universal joint fits into the spline on the inner diameter of the hub ring of the inner member, so there is no need to support the constant velocity universal joint itself, and assembly is completed by tightening the spindle nut to the specified torque.

[0007] However, even when both face splines are in contact, they are not pre-assembled in that state, so it is necessary to support the constant velocity universal joint itself while threading the female thread of the shaft portion of the constant velocity universal joint with a fastening bolt.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-described circumstances, and its object is to provide a wheel bearing device that can be temporarily assembled when both face splines are supported by fastening bolts in a pressure-fitted manner, so that the fastening bolts can be easily screwed in without supporting the constant velocity universal joint. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] That is, an outer member having an outer raceway surface on its inner periphery; an inner member having an inner raceway surface facing the outer raceway surface; A wheel bearing device comprising: rolling elements accommodated in a rollable manner between the outer raceway surface and the inner raceway surface; and a constant velocity universal joint connected to the inner member, a crimped portion is provided at an inner end portion of the inner member, a face spline is formed on an inner end surface of the crimped portion and on a shoulder portion of the constant velocity universal joint, a temporary fixing part is provided between an inner diameter of the crimped portion and an outer diameter of a connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint, The temporary fixing part has its axial movement restricted by a first step portion having a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the outer end of the connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint, and a second step portion having a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the inner end of the crimping portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The present invention has the following effects. In other words, according to the wheel bearing device of the present invention, when both face splines are supported by pressure contact with the fastening bolts, temporary assembly is performed using temporary fixing parts, so that the fastening bolts can be easily screwed in without supporting the constant velocity universal joint. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a wheel bearing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a wheel bearing device assembled using assembly bolts according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a caulking portion, a connecting portion, and a temporary fastening part of the wheel bearing device; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a rear view showing the temporary fixing component of the wheel bearing device. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a side view showing a temporary fixing part of the wheel bearing device. [Figure 6] 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a caulking portion, a connecting portion, and a temporary fastening part of the wheel bearing device; FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a wheel bearing device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a caulking portion, a connecting portion, and a temporary fastening part of the wheel bearing device; FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a crimping portion and a temporary fixing component according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a caulking portion, a connecting portion, and a temporary fixing component of a wheel bearing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a caulking portion, a connecting portion, and a temporary fixing component of a wheel support bearing device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a temporary fixing component according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0013] A wheel bearing device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is one embodiment of a wheel bearing device according to the present invention, and supports a wheel rotatably in a suspension system of a vehicle such as an automobile.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the wheel bearing device 1 has a configuration known as a third generation, and includes an outer ring 2 as an outer member, a hub ring 3 and an inner ring 4 as inner members, two rolling rows of inner ball rows 5 and outer ball rows 6, an inner sealing member 9, an outer sealing member 10, and a constant velocity universal joint 20.

[0015] Here, the inner side refers to the vehicle body side of the wheel bearing device 1 when it is attached to the vehicle body, and the outer side refers to the wheel side of the wheel bearing device 1 when it is attached to the vehicle body. The axial direction refers to the direction along the rotation axis X of the wheel bearing device 1, with one axial end side being the outer side and the other axial end side being the inner side. The direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the wheel bearing device 1 is referred to as the radial direction. In the following description, the term "cross section" will be used to refer to a cross section that passes through the rotation axis of the wheel bearing device 1 and is parallel to the rotation axis of the wheel bearing device 1.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 1, an inner-side outer raceway groove 2c and an outer-side outer raceway groove 2d are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring 2. A vehicle body mounting flange 2e for mounting the outer ring 2 to a vehicle body member is integrally formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer ring 2. The vehicle body mounting flange 2e is provided with bolt holes 2f into which fastening members (here, bolts) are inserted to fasten the outer ring 2 to the vehicle body member.

[0017] The inner end of the outer peripheral surface of the hub wheel 3 is formed with a small-diameter step 3a that is smaller in diameter than the outer end. A wheel mounting flange 3b for mounting a wheel is formed integrally with the outer end of the hub wheel 3. A plurality of bolt holes 3d are formed in the wheel mounting flange 3b. Wheel bolts are threaded into the bolt holes 3d from the wheel side to fasten the hub wheel 3 to the wheel or brake component. The wheel mounting flange 3b is an example of a hub flange that extends radially outward. The structure for fastening the hub wheel 3 to the wheel or brake component may also be a hub bolt press-fit and nut fastening.

[0018] An outer-side inner raceway groove 3c is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the hub ring 3 so as to face the outer-side outer raceway groove 2d of the outer ring 2. In other words, the inner raceway groove 3c is defined by the hub ring 3 on the outer side of the inner member. An outer-side opening 2b, which is an annular space, is formed between the outer ring 2 and the hub ring 3. An outer-side seal member 10 is fitted into the outer-side opening 2b and closes the outer-side opening 2b. The outer-side seal member 10 is an example of a sealing device.

[0019] The inner ring 4 is provided on the small diameter step 3a of the hub wheel 3. The inner ring 4 is press-fitted into the small diameter step 3a with a predetermined interference. Furthermore, the hub wheel 3 and the inner ring 4 are integrated by a crimped portion 11, which is plastically deformed by crimping the inner side end of the small diameter step 3a of the hub wheel 3, and prevents the inner ring 4 from slipping out of the hub wheel 3 in the axial direction. The crimped portion 11 is equipped with a face spline 11a. The face spline 11a is formed on the inner side end face of the crimped portion 11.

[0020] The face spline 11a has a plurality of protruding portions protruding from the inner end surface of the crimped portion 11 and a plurality of recessed portions provided between the protruding portions. The protruding portions and recessed portions each extend in the radial direction and are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0021] The inner ring 4 applies preload to the inner ball row 5 and outer ball row 6, which are rolling rows. An inner-side inner raceway groove 4a is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring 4 so as to face the inner-side outer raceway groove 2c of the outer ring 2. In other words, the inner ring 4 defines the inner raceway groove 4a on the inner side of the inner member. An inner-side opening 2a, which is an annular space, is formed between the outer ring 2 and the inner ring 4. An inner-side seal member 9 is fitted into the inner-side opening 2a and closes it. The inner-side seal member 9 is an example of a sealing device.

[0022] The inner ball row 5 and outer ball row 6, which are rolling rows, are formed by a plurality of balls 7, which are rolling elements, held in a cage 8. The inner ball row 5 is rollably sandwiched between the inner raceway groove 4a of the inner ring 4 and the inner-side outer raceway groove 2c of the outer ring 2. The outer ball row 6 is rollably sandwiched between the inner raceway groove 3c of the hub ring 3 and the outer raceway groove 2d on the outer side of the outer ring 2. In other words, the inner ball row 5 and the outer ball row 6 are rollably housed between the raceway grooves of the outer member and the inner member. In the wheel bearing device 1, the outer ring 2, the hub ring 3 and the inner ring 4, the inner ball row 5, and the outer ball row 6 form a double-row angular contact ball bearing.

[0023] The constant velocity universal joint 20 is provided at one end of an intermediate shaft (not shown) that constitutes a drive shaft, and is connected to the hub wheel 3. The constant velocity universal joint 20 includes an outer joint member 21, an inner joint member 22 having track grooves formed on its outer peripheral surface that face the track grooves of the outer joint member 21, and balls 23 incorporated between the track grooves of the outer joint member 21 and the track grooves of the inner joint member 22.

[0024] The outer joint member 21 of the constant velocity universal joint 20 comprises a bowl-shaped mouth portion 24 configured to have a diameter that decreases toward the outer side, a shoulder portion 25 that forms the bottom of the mouth portion 24 at the outer side portion of the mouth portion 24, and a cylindrical connecting portion 26 that extends from the shoulder portion 25 toward the outer side.

[0025] The shoulder portion 25 includes a face spline 25a that engages with the face spline 11a of the crimped portion 11 of the hub wheel 3. The face spline 25a is formed on the end surface of the shoulder portion 25 on the outer side.

[0026] The face spline 25a has a plurality of protruding portions protruding from the shoulder portion 25 toward the outer side and a plurality of recessed portions provided between the protruding portions. The protruding portions and recessed portions each extend in the radial direction and are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0027] The connecting portion 26 is inserted into the axial hole 3f of the hub wheel 3. An internal thread is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 26. As shown in Figure 2, a fastening bolt 27 inserted into the axial hole 3f from the outer side is threaded into the internal thread of the connecting portion 26, whereby the face spline 11a of the crimped portion 11 of the hub wheel 3 and the face spline 25a of the shoulder portion 25 of the outer joint member 21 are held in an engaged state, and torque from the drive shaft can be transmitted to the hub wheel 3 via the outer joint member 21.

[0028] That is, the concave and convex portions of the face spline 11a and the concave and convex portions of the face spline 25a are supported in a meshed state, thereby allowing torque from the drive shaft to be transmitted to the hub wheel 3 via the outer joint member 21. By employing such a face spline structure, torque can be transmitted without backlash, and the generation of stick-slip noise between the hub wheel 3 and the mouth portion 24 can be suppressed. Furthermore, compared to a shaft spline structure, the axial arrangement area can be shortened, allowing for size and weight reduction. More specifically, the axial length of the connecting portion 26 can be shortened.

[0029] [Temporary fastening parts] Next, a description will be given of the temporary fixing part 30 for supporting the constant velocity universal joint 20 during the assembly of the two face splines 11a and 25a. The temporary fixing part 30 is a part for temporary assembly that supports the constant velocity universal joint 20 during the assembly of the two face splines 11a and 25a when the face spline 25a provided on the shoulder portion 25 of the constant velocity universal joint 20 abuts against the face spline 11a of the crimped portion 11 and the fastening bolt is not threaded.

[0030] 3 to 5, the temporary fixing component 30 is composed of a first tubular portion 31 and a second tubular portion 32 having a larger diameter than the first tubular portion 31. In this embodiment, the first tubular portion 31 is arranged on the outer side during temporary assembly, and the second tubular portion 32 is arranged on the inner side during temporary assembly. The first tubular portion 31 and the second tubular portion 32 are continuous via an intermediate portion 33.

[0031] The intermediate portion 33 has an outer surface against which a jig can be pressed when attaching the temporary fixing component 30 to the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26. In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 33 is formed in a curved shape so as to smoothly connect the first tubular portion 31 and the second tubular portion 32 in a cross-sectional view, and is formed in an S-shaped cross-sectional view, but is not limited to an S-shaped shape as long as it is a portion that can connect the first tubular portion 31 and the second tubular portion 32, and can also be formed in a linear shape in a cross-sectional view.

[0032] The temporary fixing part 30 is formed from a metal plate containing iron or resin. When the temporary fixing part 30 is formed from a metal plate, the average plate thickness is preferably 1 mm or less. Furthermore, the plate thickness of the outer end part 30a and the inner end part 30b of the temporary fixing part 30 is preferably 0.8 mm or less. By making the plate thickness of the outer end part 30a and the inner end part 30b 0.8 mm or less, the temporary fixing part 30 becomes more easily deformed when a force is applied in the axial direction, making it easier to remove the constant velocity universal joint 20 after it has been assembled to the hub wheel 3.

[0033] Furthermore, when the temporary fixing component 30 is made of resin, it is molded by extruding or injecting liquid resin. Because resin has lower bending and compressive strength than metal, the average thickness of the resin is preferably 4 mm or less. Furthermore, the thickness of the outer end 30a and inner end 30b of the temporary fixing component 30 is preferably 3 mm or less. More preferably, the thickness of the outer end 30a and inner end 30b of the temporary fixing component 30 is preferably 2 mm or less.

[0034] By making the plate thickness of the outer side end portion 30a and the inner side end portion 30b 3 mm or less, the temporary fixing part 30 becomes more easily deformed when axial force is applied, making it easier to remove the constant velocity universal joint 20 once it has been assembled to the hub wheel 3.

[0035] 4 and 5, the temporary fixing component 30 has a notch 30c extending from one axial end to the other. That is, the notch 30c is provided in a part of the temporary fixing component 30. The notch 30c is cut parallel to the axial direction, and the part opened by plastic deformation is configured to be movable in a direction that opens further.

[0036] Furthermore, at least one axially extending slit 34 is provided in the first tubular portion 31 and the second tubular portion 32 of the temporary fixing component 30. The number of slits 34 is determined based on the material, thickness, and size of the temporary fixing component 30, taking into consideration ease of installation and ease of processing.

[0037] In this embodiment, the slits 34 of the first tubular portion 31 are cut out from the outer end portion 30a toward the intermediate portion 33. No slits 34 are formed in the intermediate portion 33. In addition, the slits 34 of the second tubular portion 32 are cut out from the inner end portion 30b toward the intermediate portion 33. This allows the first tubular portion 31 and the second tubular portion 32 to be deformed when attached to the connecting portion 26 during temporary assembly, while maintaining the strength of the intermediate portion 33.

[0038] The slits 34 of the first tubular portion 31 and the slits 34 of the second tubular portion 32 are alternately arranged so that their phases are different in the circumferential direction. This configuration ensures rigidity during temporary assembly.

[0039] The temporary fixing component 30 is attached between the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 and the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 of the constant velocity universal joint 20. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 of the constant velocity universal joint 20 is formed substantially parallel to the axial direction in a cross-sectional view, and a first step portion 26b having a diameter smaller than the shaft diameter around the outer diameter surface 26a is provided on a portion of the outer side of the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26. A restricting step portion 26c having a diameter smaller than the shaft diameter around the outer diameter surface 26a is also provided on a portion of the outer side of the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26.

[0040] The restricting step 26c restricts the movement of the temporary fixing component 30 toward the inner side by contacting the inner surface of the intermediate portion 33 of the temporary fixing component 30. The contact surface of the restricting step 26c is gently curved in cross section. That is, it is formed so that the resistance when the temporary fixing component 30 contacts it is smaller than that of the first step 26b.

[0041] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 is inclined in cross section so that the diameter decreases toward the outer side, and a second step portion 11c having a diameter larger than the inner diameter around the crimped portion 11 is provided on a part of the inner diameter surface 11b.

[0042] The outer end 30a of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the first step portion 26b, and the inner end 30b of the second tubular portion 32 of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the second step portion 11c. Note that the first step portion 26b and the outer end 30a of the first tubular portion 31 do not have to be in constant abutment; for example, a configuration may be adopted in which there is a predetermined gap between the first step portion 26b and the outer end 30a of the first tubular portion 31.

[0043] Furthermore, the temporary fixing part 30 may be partially fixed to the hub wheel 3 or the constant velocity universal joint 20 by welding or the like.

[0044] [Temporary fastening method using temporary fastening parts] Next, a temporary fixing method using the temporary fixing part 30 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 3. First, the temporary fixing part 30 is fitted onto the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting part 26 of the constant velocity universal joint 20. At this time, the outer end part 30a of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the first step part 26b of the outer diameter surface 26a. Therefore, movement of the temporary fixing part 30 toward the outer side is restricted. Furthermore, when the temporary fixing part 30 moves a predetermined amount toward the inner side, it abuts against the restricting step part 26c. This restricts excessive movement of the temporary fixing part 30 toward the inner side.

[0045] Next, with the temporary fixing component 30 attached, the connecting portion 26 is inserted into the axial hole 3f of the hub wheel 3. When the connecting portion 26 is inserted into the axial hole 3f of the hub wheel 3, the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second tubular portion 32, so the second tubular portion 32 moves while changing its diameter in the direction of decreasing.

[0046] With the connecting portion 26 inserted into the axial hole 3f of the hub wheel 3, the face spline 25a provided on the shoulder portion 25 of the constant velocity universal joint 20 abuts against the face spline 11a of the crimped portion 11. Next, the two face splines 25a are fitted together by aligning the phases of the face splines 25a and 11a. When the two face splines 25a are fitted together with the phases of the two face splines 25a aligned, the connecting portion 26 can move a predetermined amount in the outer direction.

[0047] When the connecting portion 26 is inserted a predetermined distance in the outer direction, the inner end 30b of the temporary fixing part 30 is released and expands in diameter to abut against the second step 11c. As a result, the outer end 30a of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the first step 26b, and the inner end 30b of the second tubular portion 32 of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the second step 11c. Note that the second step 11c and the inner end 30b of the second tubular portion 32 do not necessarily have to abut against each other all the time; for example, a predetermined gap may be provided between the second step 11c and the inner end 30b of the second tubular portion 32.

[0048] Using Figure 6, various diameter lengths will be explained when the outer end 30a of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the first step portion 26b and the inner end 30b of the second tubular portion 32 of the temporary fixing part 30 abuts against the second step portion 11c.

[0049] The inner diameter B of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing part 30 is larger than the outer diameter A of the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting part 26. Here, the inner diameter B of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing part 30 is the inner diameter of the boundary between the first tubular portion 31 and the intermediate part 33.

[0050] This configuration makes it possible to prevent contact when attaching the first tubular portion 31 to the connecting portion 26. If the slits 34 of the first tubular portion 31 interfere with the outer diameter A at a certain position, the slits 34 allow the first tubular portion 31 to be attached while expanding the diameter toward the outer diameter side. Furthermore, by providing the cutouts 30c in part of the temporary fixing component 30, the entire temporary fixing component 30 is more likely to deform toward the expanding diameter side than if only the slits 34 were formed.

[0051] Although the inner diameter B of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing component 30 is configured to be larger than the outer diameter A of the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26, a part of the inner diameter of the first tubular portion 31 may have an interference. If the connecting portion rotates with the temporary fixing component 30 attached, a large gap can cause abnormal noise. Therefore, by providing an interference, the occurrence of the gap can be reduced, and the generation of abnormal noise can be prevented.

[0052] Furthermore, the relationship B>C>A holds true for the diameter C of the slit 34 formed in the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing component 30. Here, the diameter C of the slit 34 formed in the first tubular portion 31 is the diameter on the inner circumferential side at the inner end of the slit 34. That is, the diameter C of the slit 34 is larger than the outer diameter A of the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 and extends to the inner diameter B of the first tubular portion 31 of the temporary fixing component 30. Therefore, even if the slit 34 of the first tubular portion 31 interferes with the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 at a certain position, the slit 34 allows the first tubular portion 31 to be attached while expanding in the outer diameter direction due to the effect of the slit 34.

[0053] Furthermore, the inner diameter E of the second step portion 11c of the crimped portion 11 is larger than the outer diameter D of the second tubular portion 32. Here, the outer diameter D of the second tubular portion 32 is the outer diameter of the boundary portion between the second tubular portion 32 and the intermediate portion 33. Therefore, the inner-side end portion 30b always abuts against the end face of the second step portion 11c, thereby restricting movement of the second tubular portion 32 toward the inner side.

[0054] Furthermore, the relationship E>F>D holds true for the diameter F of the slit 34 provided in the second tubular portion 32 that is attached to the inner diameter of the crimped portion 11 of the temporary fixing component 30. Here, the diameter F of the slit 34 provided in the second tubular portion 32 is the diameter on the outer peripheral side of the outer end of the slit 34. That is, the diameter F of the slit 34 is larger than the outer diameter D of the second tubular portion 32 and smaller than the inner diameter E of the second stepped portion 11c of the crimped portion 11. Therefore, when the slit 34 of the second tubular portion 32 interferes with the second stepped portion 11c at a certain position, the slit 34 allows the second tubular portion 32 to be attached while being reduced in diameter toward the inner diameter side due to the effect of the slit 34.

[0055] This restricts movement of the connecting portion 26 toward the inner side, preventing the connecting portion 26 from coming loose. Furthermore, since the load of the constant velocity universal joint 20 is supported by the crimped portion 11 and the inner diameter surface of the axial hole 3f via the temporary fixing part 30, the constant velocity universal joint 20 is supported even if the worker lets go of it.

[0056] With this configuration, the constant velocity universal joint 20 can be moved to the next process in a temporary assembled state to the hub wheel 3. In the next process, the constant velocity universal joint 20 can be fixed to the hub wheel 3 by screwing a fastening bolt into the female thread of the connecting portion 26. For example, since mass production is carried out on a vehicle assembly line, by moving the constant velocity universal joint 20 to the next process in a temporary assembled state to the hub wheel 3, the assembly cycle time can be shortened and daily production volume can be improved.

[0057] [Second embodiment] Next, the configuration of the temporary fixing component 30 and the connecting portion 26 according to the second embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than the temporary fixing component 30 and the connecting portion 26 is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0058] 7 and 8, in the second embodiment, the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 is inclined with respect to the axial direction. The inner diameter surface of the first tubular portion 31 is also inclined with respect to the axial direction so as to follow the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26. The inclination angle θ of the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 in a cross-sectional view is preferably 15° or less. Setting the inclination angle θ to 15° or less makes it easier to form the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 by cutting.

[0059] As a result, the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26 decreases in diameter toward the outer side, making it easier to process the first step portion 26b on the outer diameter surface 26a of the connecting portion 26.

[0060] An inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 is inclined with respect to the axial direction. An outer diameter surface of the second tubular portion 32 is also inclined with respect to the axial direction so as to follow the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11.

[0061] As a result, the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 decreases in diameter toward the outer side, making it easier to form the second step portion 11c on the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11.

[0062] [Third embodiment] Next, the configuration of the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 according to the third embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimped portion 11 is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 9, a restricting step 11d is provided on a portion of the outer side of the inner diameter surface 11b of the crimping portion 11. The restricting step 11d has a diameter larger than the shaft diameter around the inner diameter surface 11b. The restricting step 11d restricts movement of the temporary fixing component 30 toward the outer side by abutting against the middle portion 33 of the temporary fixing component 30. The abutment surface of the restricting step 11d is gently curved in cross section. In other words, it is formed so that the resistance when the temporary fixing component 30 abuts against it is smaller than that of the second step 11c.

[0064] When the temporary fixing component 30 moves a predetermined amount toward the outer side, the middle portion 33 comes into contact with the restricting step portion 11d, thereby restricting excessive movement of the temporary fixing component 30 toward the outer side.

[0065] [Fourth embodiment] Next, the configuration of the temporary fixing component 30 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than the temporary fixing component 30 is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0066] 10, the outer end 30a and inner end 30b of the temporary fixing part 30 are configured to be thinner than other parts. By configuring it in this way, the temporary fixing part 30 is more likely to deform when a force is applied in the axial direction, making it easier to remove the constant velocity universal joint 20 once it has been assembled to the hub wheel 3. For example, when repairing the wheel bearing device 1, it becomes easier to remove the wheel bearing device 1 from the vehicle body side during maintenance. Furthermore, when repairing the wheel bearing device 1 and reassembling it, mass production is not necessary, so it is possible to assemble it without using the temporary fixing parts 30.

[0067] [Fifth embodiment] Next, the configuration of the temporary fixing component 30 according to the fifth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than the temporary fixing component 30 is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0068] 11, the outer end 30a and inner end 30b of the temporary fixing part 30 are configured to be thicker than other parts. By configuring it in this way, the temporary fixing part 30 is more likely to deform when an axial force is applied, making it easier to remove the constant velocity universal joint 20 once it has been assembled to the hub wheel 3. For example, when repairing the wheel bearing device 1, it becomes easier to remove the wheel bearing device 1 from the vehicle body side during maintenance. Furthermore, when repairing the wheel bearing device 1 and reassembling it, mass production is not necessary, so it is possible to assemble it without using the temporary fixing parts 30.

[0069] Next, the configuration of the temporary fixing component 30 according to the fifth embodiment will be described. Note that the configuration other than the temporary fixing component 30 is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, and the same components will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0070] 12, the slits 34 of the first tubular portion 31 and the slits 34 of the second tubular portion 32 are arranged so that their phases match in the circumferential direction. This configuration facilitates deformation, improving workability during temporary assembly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] 1 Wheel bearing device 2 Outer ring (outer member) 2c・2d Outer raceway groove (outer raceway surface) 3 Hub ring (inner part) 3c・Inner raceway groove (inner raceway surface) 4 Inner ring (inner part) 4a Inner raceway groove (inner raceway surface) 5 Inner ball row 6 Outer ball row 7 Ball 8 Cage 9 Inner seal member 10 Outer seal member 11 Fastening part 11a Face Spline 11b Inner surface 11c Second step 20 Constant velocity universal joint 21 Outer joint member 22 Inner joint member 23 ball 24 Mouse section 25 Shoulder 25a Face Spline 26 Connecting part 26a Outer diameter surface 26b First step 30 Temporary fastening parts 31 First cylindrical part 32 Second cylindrical section 33 Middle section 34 Slit

Claims

1. an outer member having an outer raceway surface on its inner periphery; an inner member having an inner raceway surface facing the outer raceway surface; A wheel bearing device comprising: rolling elements accommodated in a rollable manner between the outer raceway surface and the inner raceway surface; and a constant velocity universal joint connected to the inner member, a crimped portion is provided at an inner end portion of the inner member, a face spline is formed on an inner end surface of the crimped portion and on a shoulder portion of the constant velocity universal joint, a connecting portion is provided on an outer side of the constant velocity universal joint, a temporary fixing part is provided between an inner diameter of the crimped portion and an outer diameter of a connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint; Axial movement of the temporary fixing component is limited by a first step portion having a diameter smaller than the outer shaft diameter of the outer side end portion of the connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint, and a second step portion having a diameter larger than the inner diameter of the inner side end portion of the crimped portion. A wheel bearing device characterized in that:

2. The temporary fixing component has a first tubular portion whose axial movement toward the outer side is limited by the first step portion of the constant velocity universal joint, a second tubular portion whose axial movement toward the inner side is limited by the second step portion of the crimped portion inner diameter, and an intermediate portion connecting the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion.

2. The wheel bearing device according to claim 1.

3. an inner diameter surface of the crimped portion and an outer diameter surface of the connection portion of the constant velocity universal joint are inclined with respect to an axis; 2. The wheel bearing device according to claim 1.

4. the inclination angle of the inner diameter surface of the crimped portion and the outer diameter surface of the connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint is 15 degrees or less; 4. The wheel bearing device according to claim 3.

5. The first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion are provided with at least one slit extending in the axial direction.

3. The wheel bearing device according to claim 2.

6. The temporary fixing component has a notch extending from one axial end to the other axial end.

3. The wheel bearing device according to claim 2.

7. the first cylindrical portion abutting on the first step portion and the second cylindrical portion abutting on the second step portion are formed in a tapered shape or a widened shape; 3. The wheel bearing device according to claim 2.

8. an inner diameter B of the first cylindrical portion of the temporary fixing component is larger than an outer diameter A of an outer diameter surface of an outer end portion of a connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint; 3. The wheel bearing device according to claim 2.

9. Regarding the diameter C of the slit provided in the first cylindrical portion attached to the outer diameter of the connecting portion of the constant velocity universal joint of the temporary fixing part, B>C>A That is, 9. The wheel bearing device according to claim 8.

10. an inner diameter E of a stepped portion of the crimped portion is larger than an outer diameter D of the second tubular portion of the temporary fixing component; 3. The wheel bearing device according to claim 2.

11. The diameter F of the slit provided in the second cylindrical portion attached to the inner diameter of the crimped portion of the temporary fixing part is E>F>D That is, 11. The wheel bearing device according to claim 10.

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