Driving device and movable body

Abstract

To provide a driving device which can easily perform switching from a single power source to any one of a plurality of outputs with a simple structure, and a movable body.SOLUTION: A driving device 1 comprises: an input gear 2 which is rotated by input power; a plurality of output gears 4, 5 which are engaged with the input gear 2, and output rotation of the input gear 2; and a carrier 3 which rotatably supports the plurality of output gears 4, 5. The carrier 3 can move so that respective output gears 4, 5 individually engage with the input gear 2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a drive device and a moving body. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been known drive devices that can switch from one power source to any one of multiple outputs. For example, there is a drive device that includes one input gear (pinion) to which power is transmitted, an intermediate gear that moves in the circumferential direction while meshing with the input gear, and multiple output gears (output gears) that are arranged in an arc along the movement locus of the intermediate gear (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The multiple output gears are meshed with each other by the movement of the intermediate gears. The rotation of the input gear is transmitted to the output gears meshed with the intermediate gears via the intermediate gears. In this way, any one of the multiple output gears is connected to the input gear via the intermediate gear. This makes it possible to switch from one power source (input gear) to any one of the multiple outputs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 6-45136 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, an intermediate gear is required to switch from one power source (input gear) to any one of multiple outputs, and a device to drive this intermediate gear is also required, which poses the problem of a complex drive device structure.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention provides a drive device and a moving body that can easily switch from one power source to any one of a plurality of outputs while having a simple structure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, a drive device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an input gear that rotates when power is input, a plurality of output gears that mesh with the input gear and output the rotation of the input gear, and a carrier that rotatably supports the plurality of output gears, and the carrier is movable so that each of the output gears meshes individually with the input gear.

[0008] With this configuration, each output gear moves by the carrier. Each output gear then meshes individually with the input gear. This eliminates the need for an intermediate gear as in the past, and also eliminates the need for a device to drive this intermediate gear. Therefore, the drive unit has a simple structure and can easily switch from one power source to any of multiple outputs.

[0009] In the above configuration, a carrier driving section that drives the carrier may be provided.

[0010] With this configuration, it becomes possible to continuously switch between the input gear and the output gear by the carrier drive unit.

[0011] In the above configuration, the carrier may support the plurality of output gears so as to be integrally rotatable.

[0012] By configuring it in this way, the drive device can be further simplified.

[0013] In the above configuration, the multiple output gears may be arranged in a row circumferentially of the input gear, the carrier may rotate around a carrier rotation axis that is a rotation axis parallel to an input rotation axis that is a rotation axis of the input gear, and the input rotation axis may be eccentric with respect to the carrier rotation axis.

[0014] By configuring it in this way, the drive device can be made smaller.

[0015] In the above configuration, a plurality of internal gears are provided that surround the peripheries of the plurality of output gears, and each of the internal gears is meshed with at least two different output gears.

[0016] With this configuration, the rotation input to the input gear can be output to the internal gear. Multiple internal gears can be selectively driven according to the rotation of the carrier. This expands the range of uses for the drive device.

[0017] In the above configuration, the internal gears may be arranged such that their rotation axes intersect with each other.

[0018] With this configuration, even if the attitude of the drive device changes due to, for example, rotating the carrier, it is possible to maintain the rotation direction of a specific portion of the internal gear in a constant direction. More specifically, suppose an internal gear is placed on a road surface. In this situation, rotating the internal gear allows the drive device to travel. In this case, even if the carrier is rotated and the position of the internal gear changes, the rotation direction of the internal gear in contact with the road surface can always be kept constant. This allows the drive device to continue traveling in a constant direction regardless of the position of the internal gear.

[0019] In the above configuration, the input rotation axis and an output rotation axis that is the rotation axis of the output gear may intersect, and the input gear, the output gear, and the internal gear may include helical gears.

[0020] This configuration allows multiple internal gears to be arranged so that their internal rotation axes intersect with each other with a simple structure. Also, by using helical gears as the gears, the input gear and output gear can be smoothly meshed with each other when switching between meshing.

[0021] A moving body according to another aspect of the present invention includes the drive device described above and a vehicle body provided with the drive device, and moves by rotation of the internal gear.

[0022] With this configuration, the vehicle body can be driven using the drive unit. By using the drive unit, the vehicle body can be driven in all directions without changing the direction of the vehicle body. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the present invention, it is possible to easily switch from one power source to any one of a plurality of outputs, despite the simple structure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a moving body according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of a drive device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the drive device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first carrier according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the rear. [Figure 6] 1 is a perspective view of a drive device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with a portion thereof removed. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective view of a drive device in a state where a carrier is rotated 90° from a basic position in a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a moving body according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an input gear, an output gear, and an internal gear according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a drive device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0026] [First embodiment] <Mobile> FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a moving body 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1, the vehicle 100 is a so-called electric kick scooter. The vehicle 100 mainly comprises a plate-shaped base frame 101, a handle 102 provided on the base frame 101, and a drive unit 1.

[0027] The moving body 100 moves when a user U places their feet on the base frame 101 and operates the handle unit 102. In the following description, the forward direction of the moving body 100 in normal use will be simply referred to as the forward direction. The rearward direction, opposite the forward direction, will be simply referred to as the rearward direction. The left-right direction perpendicular to the forward-backward direction will be simply referred to as the left-right direction. The forward-backward direction and the left-right direction coincide with the horizontal direction. The upward and downward directions in the vertical direction will be simply referred to as the upward and downward directions.

[0028] The base frame 101 is formed to be long in the front-rear direction. The base frame 101 has a pair of step portions 103 provided on both the left and right sides. The user U places his / her feet on these step portions 103. The handle portion 102 includes a support 104 that rises upward from the front end of the base frame 101, and a handle portion main body 105 that is provided at the upper end of the support 104. A user U operates the handle portion main body 105. The operation of the handle portion main body 105 is output as a signal to a control unit (not shown).

[0029] A drive source 106 is provided on the underside of the base frame 101 to transmit rotational power to drive the drive device 1. A control unit (not shown) controls the drive of the drive source 106 based on an input signal, and thereby controls the drive of the drive device 1. An example of the drive source 106 is an electric motor. However, the drive source 106 is not limited to this, and may be anything that can transmit rotational power to the drive device 1. For example, instead of an electric motor, a hydraulic motor or an air actuator may be used as the drive source 106.

[0030] <Drive unit> One drive unit 1 is provided at each of the front and rear ends of the base frame 101. Each drive unit 1 is provided symmetrically around the base frame 101 and is connected to a drive source 106. For this reason, in the following description, of the two drive units 1, one at the front and one at the rear, only the rear drive unit 1 will be described, and a description of the front drive unit 1 will be omitted. In the following description, the rear drive unit 1 will be simply referred to as the drive unit 1. Also, in the following description, for ease of understanding, the posture of the drive unit 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be referred to as the basic posture. The drive unit 1 will be described based on this basic posture. However, as will be described later, the posture of the drive unit 1 is not limited to the basic posture.

[0031] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the drive device 1. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the drive device 1. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in Fig. 2. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the drive device 1 includes an input gear 2 and a carrier 3, each connected to a drive source 106 by a separate drive system, a plurality of (for example, four in this first embodiment) output gears 4, 5 (first output gear 4, second output gear 5) rotatably supported on the carrier 3, and a plurality of (for example, four in this first embodiment) internal gears 6, 7 (first internal gear 6, second internal gear 7) meshed with each output gear 4, 5.

[0032] <Input gear> The input gear 2 includes an input shaft 8 connected to a drive source 106, and an input gear body 9 fitted onto the input shaft 8. The input shaft 8 extends rearward from the drive source 106. The input shaft 8 is rotatably supported by a base frame 101. When the rotation of the drive source 106 is transmitted to the input shaft 8, the input shaft 8 and the input gear body 9 rotate integrally around the axis of the input shaft 8 (hereinafter referred to as the input rotation axis A1).

[0033] The input gear body 9 has teeth 9a formed on its outer circumferential surface. The input gear body 9 is a helical gear. That is, the teeth 9a of the input gear body 9 are formed in a spiral shape so as to intersect with the input rotation axis A1.

[0034] <Career> The carrier 3 is divided into a front and a rear portion. That is, the carrier 3 includes a first carrier 11 and a second carrier 12 attached to the rear of the first carrier 11.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the first carrier 11 as seen from the rear. As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the first carrier 11 is formed integrally with a cubic frame portion 13 and a support shaft portion 14 protruding forward from the frame portion 13. The frame portion 13 includes a first base portion 15 disposed at the front. The first base portion 15 has a thickness direction in the front-rear direction and is formed in a square shape when viewed from the front-rear direction. The four sides of the first base portion 15 extend along the vertical direction or the left-right direction. Hereinafter, the side of the first base portion 15 opposite the center side in the vertical direction will be referred to as the outside in the vertical direction. The side of the first base portion 15 opposite the center side in the left-right direction will be referred to as the outside in the left-right direction.

[0036] Vertical rollers 16a1 and 16a2 (first vertical roller 16a1 and second vertical roller 16a2) are rotatably supported at the vertical centers of both left and right sides of the first base portion 15. The vertical rollers 16a1 and 16a2 rotate around a rotation axis A2 that is parallel to the left and right direction. Horizontal stays 17 extending outward in the left-right direction are integrally formed on the top-bottom ends of both left-right sides of the first base portion 15. Horizontal rollers 18a1, 18a2 (first horizontal roller 18a1, second horizontal roller 18a2) are rotatably supported at the tip of each horizontal stay 17. The horizontal rollers 18a1, 18a2 rotate around a rotation axis A3 that is parallel to the top-bottom direction.

[0037] Pillars 19 that protrude rearward are integrally formed at the four corners of the first base portion 15. A first bearing housing 21 that protrudes outward in the up-down direction is integrally formed with each pillar 19. In addition, a second bearing housing 22 that protrudes outward in the left-right direction is integrally formed with each pillar 19. In other words, a pair of first bearing housings 21 that face each other in the left-right direction are arranged on the four pillars 19, one on top and one on bottom. A pair of second bearing housings 22 that face each other in the up-down direction are arranged on the left and one on top and one on bottom.

[0038] A frame-shaped frame body 23 is integrally molded at the rear ends of the four pillars 19. A mounting hole 24 is formed in each of the four corners of the frame body 23. The mounting holes 24 are holes for mounting the second carrier 12 to the first carrier 11. A recess 25 is formed in the center of the frame body 23 in the left-right direction, as well as in the top and bottom. The recess 25 is intended to prevent contact between the frame body 23 and horizontal rollers 18b1 and 18b2 (described later) provided on the second carrier 12.

[0039] Vertical stays 26 extending outward in the vertical direction are integrally formed on both the left and right sides of the upper and lower portions of the frame body 23. Vertical rollers 16b1, 16b2 (first vertical roller 16b1, second vertical roller 16b2) are rotatably supported at the tip of each vertical stay 26. The vertical rollers 16b1, 16b2 rotate around a rotation axis A2 that is parallel to the left and right direction.

[0040] Here, the first vertical roller 16b1 arranged on the left side of the left and right vertical rollers 16b1, 16b2 and the first vertical roller 16a1 arranged on the left side of the left and right vertical rollers 16a1, 16a2 provided on the first base portion 15 are located on the same plane. The second vertical roller 16b2 arranged on the right side of the left and right vertical rollers 16b1, 16b2 and the second vertical roller 16a2 arranged on the right side of the left and right vertical rollers 16a1, 16a2 provided on the first base portion 15 are located on the same plane.

[0041] That is, the vertical rollers 16a1-16b2 constitute two vertical roller groups 27a, 27b (first vertical roller group 27a, second vertical roller group 27b) on each of the left and right sides. Of the two vertical roller groups 27a, 27b, the first vertical roller group 27a includes three first vertical rollers 16a1, 16b1 arranged on the same plane. Of the two vertical roller groups 27a, 27b, the second vertical roller group 27b includes three second vertical rollers 16a2, 16b2 arranged on the same plane.

[0042] The frame portion 13 configured in this manner is communicated between the interior and exterior between the pillars 19 and through most of the center of the frame body 23. A support shaft 14 protrudes from a first base portion 15 of the frame portion 13.

[0043] The support shaft 14 is integrally formed with a square tube portion 31 that protrudes from the first base portion 15 and a cylindrical portion 32 that protrudes from the tip of the square tube portion 31. The base of the square tube portion 31 is flared so that it gradually extends in the vertical direction as it approaches the first base portion 15. The square tube portion 31 and the cylindrical portion 32 are in communication with the interior of the frame portion 13 via the first base portion 15. The tip of the cylindrical portion 32 is connected to a driving source 106. This transmits the rotation of the driving source 106 to the carrier 3. The carrier 3, together with the first carrier 11 and the second carrier 12, rotates around the axis of the cylindrical portion 32 (hereinafter referred to as the carrier rotation axis A4).

[0044] The second carrier 12 is integrally formed with a second base portion 41 that abuts against the frame body 23 of the first carrier 11, and a square tube portion 42 that protrudes rearward from the second base portion 41. A mounting hole 43 is formed in each of the four corners of the second base portion 41. When the second base portion 41 is placed on the frame body 23 of the first carrier 11, the mounting hole 24 of the frame body 23 and the mounting hole 43 of the second base portion 41 are positioned coaxially.

[0045] The second carrier 12 is attached to the first carrier 11 by inserting a fastener (not shown) into these mounting holes 24, 43. Examples of the fastener include a bolt and a caulking pin. For example, when a bolt is used as the fastener, a female thread is formed in the mounting hole 24 of the frame 23. This allows the second carrier 12 to be fastened and fixed to the first carrier 11 using the bolt.

[0046] Horizontal rollers 18b1 and 18b2 (first horizontal roller 18b1 and second horizontal roller 18b2) are rotatably supported at the center of the left and right sides of the second base portion 41. The horizontal rollers 18b1 and 18b2 rotate around a rotation axis A3 that is parallel to the vertical direction.

[0047] Here, when the second carrier 12 is attached to the first carrier 11, the first cross roller 18b1, which is arranged on the upper side of the upper and lower cross rollers 18b1, 18b2 provided on the second base portion 41, and the first cross roller 18a1, which is arranged on the upper side of the upper and lower cross rollers 18a1, 18a2 provided on the first base portion 15, are positioned on the same plane. The second cross roller 18b2, which is arranged on the lower side of the upper and lower cross rollers 18b1, 18b2 provided on the second base portion 41, and the second cross roller 18a2, which is arranged on the lower side of the upper and lower cross rollers 18a1, 18a2 provided on the first base portion 15, are positioned on the same plane.

[0048] That is, the cross rollers 18a1-18b2 constitute two upper and lower cross roller groups 28a, 28b (first cross roller group 28a and second cross roller group 28b). Of the two cross roller groups 28a, 28b, the first cross roller group 28a includes three first cross rollers 18a1, 18b1 arranged on the same plane. Of the two cross roller groups 28a, 28b, the second cross roller group 28b includes three second cross rollers 18a2, 18b2 arranged on the same plane.

[0049] An opening 41a is formed in the majority of the center of the second base portion 41. The opening 41a and the rectangular tube portion 42 are in communication with each other. The base of the rectangular tube portion 42 is formed to gradually extend in the vertical direction and widen toward the second base portion 41. The rectangular tube portion 42 is disposed coaxially with the rectangular tube portion 31 of the first carrier 11.

[0050] The input gear 2 is housed in the carrier 3 configured as described above. More specifically, the input shaft 8 is inserted into the frame portion 13 and support shaft portion 14 (rectangular tube portion 31, cylindrical portion 32) of the first carrier 11, and the second base portion 41 and rectangular tube portion 42 of the second carrier 12. The input gear main body 9 is housed in the frame portion 13.

[0051] In this state, the input rotation axis A1 is eccentric with respect to the carrier rotation axis A4, as shown in detail in Fig. 4. In Fig. 4, the input rotation axis A1 is eccentric downward with respect to the carrier rotation axis A4. However, this is not limited to this, and the eccentric direction of the input rotation axis A1 may be any direction, up, down, left, or right, with respect to the carrier rotation axis A4 (this will be described in detail later).

[0052] <Output gear> 2 to 4, four output gears 4, 5 are rotatably supported on a first carrier 11 of the carrier 3. The four output gears 4, 5 are arranged one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one below and one above and one

[0053] Of the four output gears 4, 5, the first output gears 4 arranged above and below are rotatably supported by a pair of first bearing housings 21 via bearings 51. The two first output gears 4 can also be said to be arranged opposite each other with the carrier rotation axis A4 at the center. The first output gear 4 includes a first output shaft 52, both ends of which are inserted into bearings 51, and a first output gear body 53 fitted onto the first output shaft 52. The first output shaft 52 and the first output gear body 53 rotate integrally around a rotation axis A5 (hereinafter referred to as the first output rotation axis A5) that is parallel to the left-right direction. In other words, the input rotation axis A1 and the first output rotation axis A5 are perpendicular to each other.

[0054] The first output gear body 53 has teeth 53a formed on its outer circumferential surface. The first output gear body 53 is configured as a helical gear that can mesh with the input gear body 9. That is, the teeth 53a of the first output gear body 53 are formed in a spiral shape so as to intersect with the first output rotation axis A5.

[0055] Of the four output gears 4, 5, the second output gears 5 arranged on the left and right are rotatably supported by a pair of second bearing housings 22 via bearings 54. It can also be said that the two second output gears 5 are arranged opposite each other with the carrier rotation axis A4 at the center. The second output gear 5 includes a second output shaft 55, both ends of which are inserted into bearings 54, and a second output gear body 56 fitted onto the second output shaft 55. The second output shaft 55 and the second output gear body 56 rotate integrally around a rotation axis A6 (hereinafter referred to as the second output rotation axis A6) that is parallel to the vertical direction. In other words, the second output rotation axis A6 is perpendicular to the input rotation axis A1 and the first output rotation axis A5. The second output rotation axis A6 and the first output rotation axis A5 are located on the same plane.

[0056] The second output gear body 56 has teeth 56a formed on its outer circumferential surface. The second output gear body 56 is configured as a helical gear that can mesh with the input gear body 9. That is, the teeth 56a of the second output gear body 56 are formed in a spiral shape so as to intersect with the second output rotation axis A6.

[0057] A portion of each output gear body 53, 56 faces the inside of the frame portion 13 of the first carrier 11. In addition, each output gear body 53, 56 is disposed in a position where it does not mesh with each other when the carrier rotation axis A4 of the carrier 3 on which these output gear bodies 53, 56 are rotatably supported and the input rotation axis A1 of the input gear body 9 are coaxial.

[0058] With the output gear bodies 53, 56 arranged in this manner, the input rotational axis A1 is eccentric downward with respect to the carrier rotational axis A4, as shown in detail in Fig. 4. Therefore, the input gear body 9 meshes with only one of the four output gear bodies 53, 56. In Fig. 4, the input gear body 9 meshes with the first output gear body 53 located below. The meshing between the input gear body 9 and each output gear body 53, 56 is switched by rotating the carrier 3 (details will be described later).

[0059] <Internal gear> The output gears 4 and 5 are meshed with two internal gears 6 and 7 (first internal gear 6 and second internal gear 7), respectively. Of the internal gears 6, 7, the two first internal gears 6 are respectively meshed with both axial sides of the two first output gear bodies 53. In other words, the support shaft portion 14 of the carrier 3 protrudes from between the two first internal gears 6.

[0060] The two first internal gears 6 have the same configuration and are arranged symmetrically around the support shaft 14. For this reason, only one of the two first internal gears 6 will be described below. The other first internal gear 6 will basically be given the same reference numeral as the one first internal gear 6 and description thereof will be omitted. The other first internal gear 6 will be described as necessary.

[0061] The first internal gear 6 includes a ring-shaped first internal gear main body 61 that surrounds the two first output gear main bodies 53 so as to straddle the two first output gear main bodies 53, and a first wheel 62 that is fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the first internal gear main body 61. The first internal gear main body 61 has teeth 61a formed on its inner peripheral surface. The teeth 61a are configured as helical gears that can mesh with the first output gear main body 53. In other words, the teeth 61a are formed in a spiral shape so as to intersect with the first output rotation axis A5.

[0062] The first internal gear body 61 meshes with the first output gear body 53, causing the first internal gear 6 to rotate about a rotation axis A7 (hereinafter referred to as the first internal gear rotation axis A7) parallel to the first output rotation axis A5. The first internal gear rotation axis A7 is also perpendicular to the carrier rotation axis A4.

[0063] The first wheels 62 are formed in a ring shape. An engaging recess 63 into which the first internal gear main body 61 is engaged is formed on the inner circumferential surface 62a of the first wheel 62 at the end on the opposing other first internal gear 6 side. The inner circumferential surface 62a of each first wheel 62, on the left-right outer side of the engaging recess 63, is disposed around the corresponding longitudinal roller group 27a, 27b. A roller receiving surface 64 is formed around the entire periphery of the inner circumferential surface 62a of each first wheel 62 at a location corresponding to the longitudinal roller group 27a, 27b.

[0064] The roller receiving surfaces 64 are formed with a smaller diameter than the fitting recess 63 via a step. The outer peripheral surfaces of the vertical rollers 16a1 to 16b2 of the corresponding vertical roller groups 27a, 27b abut against each roller receiving surface 64. That is, the two first wheels 62 are supported by the corresponding three vertical rollers 16a1 to 16b2 so as to be rotatable about the first internal tooth rotation axis A7. An outer peripheral surface 62b of the first wheel 62 is curved so that the diameter gradually decreases toward the outside in the left-right direction. When the drive unit 1 is in the basic position, the first wheel 62 is in contact with the road surface F (see FIG. 1).

[0065] Here, the first internal gear 6 is divided into two parts centered on a plane passing through the first internal rotation axis A7. That is, the first internal gear 6 is formed by overlapping two arc-shaped first internal gear pieces 65. The two first internal gear pieces 65 are integrated by connecting the respective first wheels 62 together using a fastener (not shown). Examples of the fastener include a bolt and a caulking pin.

[0066] Of the internal gears 6, 7, the two second internal gears 7 are respectively meshed with both axial sides of the two second output gear bodies 56. In other words, the support shaft portion 14 of the carrier 3 protrudes from between the two second internal gears 7.

[0067] The two second internal gears 7 have the same configuration and are arranged symmetrically around the support shaft 14. For this reason, only one of the two second internal gears 7 will be described below. The other second internal gear 7 will basically be given the same reference numeral as the one second internal gear 7 and description thereof will be omitted. The other second internal gear 7 will be described as necessary.

[0068] The basic configuration of the second internal gear 7 is the same as that of the above-described first internal gear 6. Therefore, the second internal gear 7 includes a ring-shaped second internal gear main body 71 that surrounds the two second output gear main bodies 56 so as to straddle the two second output gear main bodies 56, and a second wheel 72 that is fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the second internal gear main body 71. The tooth portion 71a of the second internal gear main body 71 is made up of a helical gear that can mesh with the second output gear main body 56.

[0069] The second internal gear 7 rotates about a rotation axis A8 (hereinafter referred to as the second internal gear rotation axis A8) parallel to the second output rotation axis A6 by meshing with the second output gear body 56. The second internal gear rotation axis A8 is perpendicular to the carrier rotation axis A4 and the first internal gear rotation axis A7.

[0070] An inner peripheral surface 72a of the second wheel 72 is formed with a fitting recess 73 into which the second internal gear body 71 is fitted, and a roller receiving surface 74. The two second wheels 72 are supported rotatably about the second internal gear rotation axis A8 by the three lateral rollers 18a1 to 18b2 of the corresponding lateral roller groups 28a and 28b. The outer peripheral surface 72b of the second wheel 72 is curved so that the diameter gradually decreases toward the outside in the left-right direction.

[0071] The first internal gear 6 is rotatably supported by vertical roller groups 27a and 27b, while the second internal gear 7 is rotatably supported by horizontal roller groups 28a and 28b. Therefore, the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged to intersect with each other. More specifically, the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged in such a way that the inner circumferential surface of the first internal gear 6 (first internal gear main body 61) and the outer circumferential surface of the second internal gear 7 (outer circumferential surface 72b of the second wheel 72) are closely adjacent to each other at the rear. The first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged in such a way that the inner circumferential surface of the second internal gear 7 (second internal gear main body 71) is closely adjacent to the outer circumferential surface of the first internal gear 6 (outer circumferential surface 62b of the first wheel 62) at the front.

[0072] Here, the second internal gear 7 is configured to be divided into two parts centered on a plane passing through the second internal rotation axis A8. That is, the second internal gear 7 is formed by overlapping two arc-shaped second internal gear pieces 75. The two second internal gear pieces 75 are integrated by connecting the respective second wheels 72 using a fixture (not shown). This makes it possible to arrange the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 so that they intersect with each other.

[0073] <Operation of the drive unit> Next, the operation of the driving device 1 will be described. Fig. 6 is a perspective view with a part of the drive unit 1 removed. Fig. 6 corresponds to the above-mentioned Fig. 2. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the attitude of the drive unit 1 is the basic attitude. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 6, in the basic position of the driving device 1, the input gear body 9 and the first output gear body 53 located below are meshed with each other.

[0074] In this state, when the user U first operates the handle portion 102 to move the moving body 100, the driving source 106 is driven. The rotational power of this driving source 106 is transmitted to the input gear 2, and the input shaft 8 and the input gear main body 9 are rotated integrally (see arrows Y1 and CW in FIG. 6). Then, the first output gear main body 53 meshed with the input gear main body 9 is rotated (see arrow Y2 in FIG. 6). Furthermore, the two first internal gears 6 meshed with the first output gear main body 53 are rotated (see arrow Y3 in FIG. 6).

[0075] This moves the moving body 100 forward. To move the moving body 100 backward, the input gear 2 (input shaft 8, input gear body 9) is rotated in the reverse direction (see arrow Y1, CCW in FIG. 6). Here, the carrier 3 is connected to a driving source 106 via a drive system separate from the input gear 2. When the rotation of the carrier 3 is stopped, the moving body 100 simply moves forward or backward.

[0076] Next, the case where the carrier 3 is rotated will be described. As shown in detail in Fig. 4, the input rotation axis A1 is eccentric with respect to the carrier rotation axis A4. Therefore, when the drive source 106 rotates the carrier 3 by 90° (see, for example, arrow Y4 in Fig. 4), the input gear body 9 switches to mesh with the second output gear body 56. At this time, the input gear body 9 and the output gear bodies 53, 56 are each formed of a helical gear. Therefore, the input gear body 9 and the output gear bodies 53, 56 mesh more smoothly than, for example, when spur gears are moved to mesh with each other.

[0077] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the driving device 1 in a state where the carrier 3 is rotated 90° from the basic position. 7, when the carrier 3 is rotated 90°, the internal gears 6, 7 rotatably supported on the carrier 3 also rotate integrally. As a result, the second wheel 72 of the second internal gear 7 comes into contact with the road surface F instead of the first internal gear 6. Also, the second internal gear rotation axis A8 becomes parallel to the left-right direction instead of the first internal gear rotation axis A7.

[0078] By rotating the carrier 3 by 90 degrees, the moving body 100 slides in the left-right direction (for example, leftward according to the arrow Y4 in FIG. 4) by this amount. When the input gear 2 is rotated in this state, the second output gear body 56 is rotated. At this time, if the rotation direction of the input gear 2 is the same as when it is in the basic position (see, for example, arrow Y1, CW in FIG. 6), the second output gear body 56 also rotates in the same direction as when the first output gear body 53 was rotating (see, for example, arrow Y2 in FIG. 6).

[0079] Furthermore, the two second internal gears 7 meshed with the second output gear body 56 are also rotated in the same direction as when the first internal gear 6 was rotating (see, for example, arrow Y3 in FIG. 6 and arrow Y5 in FIG. 7), causing the moving body 100 to continue moving forward.

[0080] Here, the two first output gear bodies 53 are disposed opposite each other about the carrier rotation axis A4. The two second output gear bodies 56 are disposed opposite each other about the carrier rotation axis A4. Therefore, when the carrier 3 is rotated another 90°, the input gear body 9 and the first output gear body 53 are again meshed. By repeating this, the input gear 2 alternately meshes with the first output gear 4 and the second output gear 5. Accordingly, the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 alternately rotate. The input gear 2 can be rotated continuously. If the rotation direction of the input gear 2 is constant, the rotation directions of the alternating first internal gear 6 and second internal gear 7 will be the same.

[0081] That is, the moving body 100 can move continuously in all directions without changing the orientation of the moving body 100. As an example of running the mobile body 100, for example, an angular velocity sensor and an inclination sensor are provided on the mobile body 100, and the detection results of these sensors are output as signals to a control unit (not shown). The control unit can control the driving of the carrier 3 based on the input signals from the sensors, thereby stabilizing the posture of the mobile body 100.

[0082] Furthermore, as an example of traveling the moving body 100, for example, it is assumed that the driving of one of the front and rear drive units 1 is stopped and the carrier 3 of the other drive unit 1 is driven. By controlling the driving in this manner, it is also possible to rotate the moving body 100 along the road surface F around the stopped drive unit 1.

[0083] As described above, the drive unit 1 includes the input gear 2 that rotates when rotational power is transmitted from the drive source 106, the four output gears 4 and 5 that mesh with the input gear 2, and the carrier 3 that rotatably supports each of the output gears 4 and 5. The drive source 106 also functions as a carrier drive unit that drives the carrier 3. As a result, the output gears 4 and 5 themselves are moved by the drive source 106 via the carrier 3. Each of the output gears 4 and 5 is then individually meshed with the input gear 2. This eliminates the need for an intermediate gear as in the past, and also eliminates the need for a device to drive this intermediate gear. Therefore, the drive unit 1 has a simple structure and can easily switch from one power source (the input gear 2) to any of multiple outputs (the output gears 4 and 5).

[0084] By driving the carrier 3 using the driving source 106, it becomes possible to continuously switch between the input gear 2 and the output gears 4 and 5. This makes it possible to continuously move the moving body 100 in all directions. The carrier 3 integrally supports the output gears 4 and 5 so as to be freely rotatable, thereby further simplifying the drive device 1.

[0085] In the driving device 1, four output gears 4 and 5 are arranged circumferentially around an input gear 2. A driving source 106 drives the carrier 3 to rotate about a carrier rotation axis A4 that is parallel to the input rotation axis A1. By eccentrically positioning the input rotation axis A1 relative to the carrier rotation axis A4, it is possible to switch the meshing between the input gear 2 and the four output gears 4 and 5 arranged around the input gear 2. This configuration allows the driving device 1 to be made smaller.

[0086] The driving device 1 includes internal gears 6, 7 that surround the peripheries of the output gears 4, 5. Two corresponding output gears 4, 5 are meshed with each of the internal gears 6, 7. This allows the rotation input to the output gears 4, 5 to be output to the internal gears 6, 7. This allows the internal gears 6, 7 to be selectively rotated in accordance with the rotation of the carrier 3. This allows for a wide range of uses for the driving device 1, such as using the driving device 1 to travel the moving body 100.

[0087] The first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged so that their internal rotation axes A7, A8 are perpendicular to each other. Therefore, even if the attitude of the drive unit 1 (the attitude of each internal gear 6, 7) changes by, for example, rotating the carrier 3, it is possible to maintain the rotation direction of a specific portion of the internal gears 6, 7 in a constant direction. In the first embodiment, the specific portion of the internal gears 6, 7 is, for example, a portion of the internal gears 6, 7 that comes into contact with the road surface F. Therefore, even if the attitude of each internal gear 6, 7 changes by rotating the carrier 3, it is possible to always maintain the rotation direction of the internal gears 6, 7 that comes into contact with the road surface F in a constant direction. Therefore, it is possible for the moving body 100 to continue traveling in a constant direction regardless of the attitude of the internal gears 6, 7.

[0088] The input rotation axis A1 and the output rotation axes A5, A6 are perpendicular to each other. The input gear body 9 and the output gear bodies 53, 56 are each composed of a helical gear. This allows the internal gear rotation axes A7, A8 to be perpendicular to each other with a simple structure. Furthermore, when switching the meshing between the input gear 2 and each output gear 4, 5, the meshing between the input gear 2 and each output gear 4, 5 can be performed more smoothly than when, for example, spur gears are meshed with each other.

[0089] The moving body 100 runs using the internal gears 6 and 7 of the drive unit 1. Therefore, the moving body 100 can move continuously in all directions without changing the orientation of the moving body 100.

[0090] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. In the following description, the same aspects as those in the first embodiment described above will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a moving body 200 in the second embodiment. Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing an input gear 202, output gears 4 and 5, and internal gears 6 and 7 of a driving device 201 provided in the moving body 200 in the second embodiment.

[0091] 8 and 9, in the second embodiment, a driving device 201 is similar to the first embodiment in that it includes an input gear 202 and a carrier 203, each of which is connected to a driving source (not shown) via a separate driving system, a plurality of (for example, four in the second embodiment) output gears 4 and 5 (first output gear 4 and second output gear 5) rotatably supported by the carrier 203, and a plurality of (for example, four in the second embodiment) internal gears 6 and 7 (first internal gear 6 and second internal gear 7) meshed with the output gears 4 and 5. As in the first embodiment, the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged so that their internal rotation axes A7 and A8 are perpendicular to each other.

[0092] The main difference between the first embodiment and the second embodiment is that in the first embodiment, wheels 62, 72 are provided as traveling means, whereas in the second embodiment, tracks (crawlers) 87 are provided instead of the wheels 62, 72. Also, in the first embodiment, the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged to intersect with each other, whereas in the second embodiment, the first internal gear 6 and the second internal gear 7 are arranged to be spaced apart along the input rotation axis A1.

[0093] Furthermore, the corresponding output gears 4 and 5 are also arranged spaced apart along the input rotation axis A1 so as to correspond to each of the internal gears 6 and 7. In the input gear 202, two input gear bodies 9 are fitted to the input shaft 8. The two input gear bodies 9 are arranged spaced apart so as to be able to mesh with the corresponding output gears 4 and 5, respectively.

[0094] The input rotation axis A1 is eccentric with respect to the carrier rotation axis A4 of the carrier 203 that rotatably supports each of the output gears 4 and 5. Therefore, only one of the two input gear bodies 9 is engaged with the corresponding output gear 4 or 5. With this configuration, the meshing between the two input gear bodies 9 and the corresponding output gears 4, 5 switches as the carrier rotates.

[0095] Each of the output gears 4 and 5 has a pinion 81 fitted to both ends of the output shaft 52 and 55. The pinion 81 is made of a spur gear. The internal gears 6 and 7 are meshed with the pinions 81, respectively. Each of the internal gears 6, 7 includes a sprocket 82 instead of the wheels 62, 72 (see FIG. 2, etc.) of the first embodiment. That is, the sprocket 82 is fitted to each of the internal gear bodies 61, 71.

[0096] In the second embodiment, each of the internal gears 6, 7 of the drive unit 201 functions as a drive wheel. That is, in the second embodiment, driven wheels 85, 86 (first driven wheel 85, second driven wheel 86) are provided corresponding to each of the drive wheels (internal gears 6, 7). The second internal gear 7 of each of the internal gears 6, 7 is disposed between the first internal gear 6 of each of the internal gears 6, 7 and the corresponding first driven wheel 85. The first internal gear 6 is disposed between the second internal gear 7 and the corresponding second driven wheel 86. Each of the driven wheels 85, 86 is also provided with a sprocket 84 having the same configuration as the driving device 201. A crawler belt 87 is wound between the corresponding sprockets 82, 84. This allows the moving body 200 to travel.

[0097] Therefore, the second embodiment described above provides the same effects as the first embodiment described above. In addition, by using the crawler belt 87 for travel, the mobile object 200 can travel on rough roads.

[0098] In the first embodiment described above, an electric kick scooter was described as an example of the moving body 100. In the second embodiment described above, a so-called crawler-type moving body 200 equipped with tracks 87 was described. However, this is not limited to this, and the driving unit 1, 201 can be adopted in various moving bodies. For example, the driving unit 1 in the first embodiment may be provided on a transporting vehicle or the like. In this case, for example, the driving unit 1 may be provided at one of the four corners of a rectangular base portion, and driven wheels may be provided at the other three corners. The driving unit 1 may be provided at each of the four corners.

[0099] For example, the moving body 200 in the second embodiment can be used as a running body of a transporting platform vehicle. In this case, for example, two moving bodies 200 can be provided along two opposing sides of the four sides of a rectangular base. For example, the moving body 200 can be provided as a running body of a construction machine or the like.

[0100] In the above-described first and second embodiments, the driving device 1, 201 has been described as having four output gears 4, 5. The description has been given of a case in which the meshing between the input gears 2, 202 and the output gears 4, 5 is switched when the carrier 3, 203 rotates 90°. However, this is not limited to this, and each output gear 4, 5 may have two or more. It is sufficient to adjust the rotation angle of the carrier 3, 203 according to the number of output gears 4, 5, and switch the meshing between the input gears 2, 202 and the output gears 4, 5. Furthermore, the number of internal gears 6, 7 may be changed according to the number of output gears 4, 5.

[0101] In the above-described first and second embodiments, the output gears 4 and 5 are described as being arranged so that their output rotation axes A5 and A6 are perpendicular to each other. Correspondingly, the internal gears 6 and 7 are described as being arranged so that their internal rotation axes A7 and A8 are perpendicular to each other. However, this is not limiting, and the output gears 4 and 5 may be arranged so that their output rotation axes A5 and A6 intersect. Correspondingly, the internal gears 6 and 7 may be arranged so that their internal rotation axes A7 and A8 intersect each other.

[0102] In the first and second embodiments described above, the input gear body 9, the output gear bodies 53, 56, and the internal gear bodies 61, 72 are each configured as helical gears. However, this is not limited to this, and the input gear body 9, the output gear bodies 53, 56, and the internal gear bodies 61, 72 can be configured as various gears. For example, they may be configured as bevel gears instead of helical gears.

[0103] [Third embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a driving device 301 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, in the third embodiment, a driving device 301 includes an input gear 302, a plurality of (for example, four in this third embodiment) output gears 91 arranged in a line in one direction, a carrier 303 that rotatably supports each output gear 91, and a driving source 107 that slides the carrier 303.

[0104] Various gears can be used as the input gear 302 and the output gear 91. Specifically, helical gears, spur gears, and the like can be used as the gears. The input gear 302 is meshed with one of the plurality of output gears 91. When the driving source 107 slides the carrier 303 in the arrangement direction of the output gears 91 (see arrow Y6 in FIG. 10), the meshing between the input gear 302 and the output gear 91 switches. A separate driven part (actuator) (not shown) is connected to each output gear 91. This allows the driven part to be changed depending on the output gear 91 that is meshed with it.

[0105] Therefore, according to the driving device 301 of the third embodiment described above, it is possible to easily switch from one power source (input gear 302) to any of multiple outputs (output gear 91) despite its simple structure.

[0106] In the above-described third embodiment, the driving device 301 is described as having four output gears 91. However, this is not limitative, and the number of output gears 91 may be two or more.

[0107] In the third embodiment described above, the case where the carrier 303 is slid by the driving source 107 has been described. However, this is not limiting, and the carrier 303 may be rotated around the axis of the input gear 302. A configuration may be adopted in which each output gear 91 and the input gear 302 are meshed on a rotation trajectory.

[0108] In the third embodiment described above, the carrier 303 is slidably moved by the driving source 107. However, this is not limiting, and the driving source 107 does not have to be provided. It is sufficient that the carrier 303 is provided so as to be slidably or rotatably moved. For example, the carrier 303 may be operated manually.

[0109] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and includes various modifications to the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 1,201,301...Drive unit 2,202...Input gear 3,203,303…Career 4...First output gear (output gear) 5...Second output gear (output gear) 6...First internal gear (internal gear) 7...Second internal gear (internal gear) 11...First carrier (carrier) 12...Second carrier (carrier) 53...First output gear body (output gear) 56...Second output gear body (output gear) 61...First internal gear body (internal gear) 62...First wheel (internal gear) 71... Second internal gear body (internal gear) 72...Second wheel (internal gear) 91...Output gear 101...Base frame (body) 103...Step section (body) 106, 107...Drive source (carrier drive unit) A1: Input rotation axis A4...Carrier rotation axis A7: First internal gear rotation axis A8: Second internal gear rotation axis

Claims

1. an input gear that rotates when power is input; a plurality of output gears that mesh with the input gear and output the rotation of the input gear; a carrier that rotatably supports the plurality of output gears; Equipped with The carrier is movable so that the output gears individually mesh with the input gear. Drive unit.

2. a carrier driving unit that drives the carrier; The drive device according to claim 1 .

3. The carrier supports the plurality of output gears so as to be integrally rotatable. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The plurality of output gears are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction of the input gear, the carrier rotates about a carrier rotation axis that is a rotation axis parallel to an input rotation axis that is a rotation axis of the input gear, The input rotation axis is eccentric with respect to the carrier rotation axis. The drive device according to claim 3 .

5. a plurality of internal gears surrounding the plurality of output gears; At least two of the output gears are meshed with each of the internal gears. The drive device according to claim 4.

6. The internal gears are arranged such that their respective rotation axes intersect with each other. The drive device according to claim 5.

7. the input rotation axis and the output rotation axis, which is the rotation axis of the output gear, intersect with each other, the input gear, the output gear, and the internal gear include helical gears, The drive device according to claim 6.

8. The drive device according to claim 6 ; a vehicle body provided with the drive device; Equipped with The internal gear rotates to move. Mobile object.

Images