Meshing engagement device and vehicle drive system equipped therewith

Abstract

The present invention provides a meshing engagement device and a vehicle drive device equipped therewith, in which a first rotating body supporting a movable member provided with an engagement portion and a second rotating body provided with an engaged portion are arranged coaxially, and in which the inclination of the axis of the engaged portion is easily suppressed. [Solution] The interlocking engagement device 10 comprises a first rotating body 1 and a second rotating body 2 arranged coaxially, a case 9 housing them, a movable member 3 that moves axially L to connect and disconnect the first rotating body 1 and the second rotating body 2, and a first engaged portion 41 connected to rotate integrally with the second rotating body 2. The movable member 3 has a first engaging portion 31 that engages with the first engaged portion 41 and is supported to move axially L with respect to the first rotating body 1 while its relative rotation is restricted. The second rotating body 2 is rotatably supported via a bearing 7 with respect to a support portion 8 formed on the case 9 or a support member 90 fixed to the case 9.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an engagement type engagement device including a first rotating body, a second rotating body arranged coaxially with the first rotating body, a case accommodating the first rotating body and the second rotating body, and a moving member that connects and disconnects the first rotating body and the second rotating body, and a vehicle drive device including the same.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 below discloses an engagement type engagement device (D1) including a shaft member (44) as a first rotating body, a gear (48) as a second rotating body arranged coaxially with the shaft member (44), a case (18) accommodating the shaft member (44) and the gear (48), and a moving member (56) that connects and disconnects the shaft member (44) and the gear (48). Note that the reference numerals shown in parentheses in the description of the background art are those of Patent Document 1.

[0003] The moving member (56) is supported so as to be movable in the axial direction (the left - right direction in FIG. 3 of Patent Document 1) with relative rotation restricted with respect to a hub (52) connected so as to rotate integrally with the shaft member (44). The gear (48) is rotatably supported with respect to the shaft member (44) via a needle roller bearing (84). An engaged portion (54s) is provided on the gear (48) so as to rotate integrally with the gear (48). An engaging portion (56s) that engages with the engaged portion (54s) is provided on the moving member (56).

[0004] Thus, when the moving member (56) moves in the axial direction, engagement and disengagement between the engaging portion (56s) and the engaged portion (54s) are performed. In a state where the engaging portion (56s) and the engaged portion (54s) are engaged, the shaft member (44) and the gear (48) are connected so as to rotate integrally with each other, and in a state where the engagement between the engaging portion (56s) and the engaged portion (54s) is released, the shaft member (44) and the gear (48) can rotate relative to each other.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-98321 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Incidentally, the shaft member (44) is rotatably supported relative to the case (18) via a pair of ball bearings (80a, 80b). And, as described above, the gear (48) is rotatably supported relative to the shaft member (44) via a needle roller bearing (84). Thus, the gear (48) is supported relative to the case (18) via the needle roller bearing (84), the shaft member (44), and the pair of ball bearings (80a, 80b). Therefore, the axis of the engaged portion (54s) provided on the gear (48) is prone to tilting. If the axis of the engaged portion (54s) is tilted, there is a possibility that the engagement between the engaging portion (56s) and the engaged portion (54s) may be unintentionally released.

[0007] Therefore, in a configuration in which a first rotating body supporting a movable member provided with an engaging portion and a second rotating body provided with an engaged portion are arranged coaxially, it is desirable to realize a technology that makes it easier to keep the inclination of the axis of the engaged portion small. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In light of the above, the characteristic configuration of the interlocking engagement device is: The first solid of revolution and, A second rotating body is arranged coaxially with the first rotating body, A case for housing the first rotating body and the second rotating body, A meshing engagement device comprising: a movable member that moves in the axial direction with the direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating body as the axial direction, to connect and disconnect the first rotating body and the second rotating body, The second rotating body further comprises a first engaged portion connected to it so as to rotate integrally with it, The movable member is provided with a first engaging portion that engages with the first engaged portion, and is supported so as to be movable in the axial direction while its relative rotation with respect to the first rotating body is restricted. The second rotating body is rotatably supported via a bearing with respect to a support portion formed on the case or a support member fixed to the case.

[0009] In this characteristic configuration, the second rotating body, which is provided with the first engaged portion, is rotatably supported via a bearing on a support portion formed on the case or a support member fixed to the case. As a result, compared to a configuration in which, for example, a shaft member supporting a movable member is rotatably supported on the case and the second rotating body is rotatably supported on the shaft member via a bearing, it is easier to suppress the tilt of the axis of the first engaged portion. Therefore, the possibility of the engagement between the first engaged portion and the first engaged portion being unintentionally disengaged can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Skeleton diagram of a vehicle drive system according to an embodiment [Figure 2] Partially enlarged view of a cross-sectional view along the axial direction of a vehicle drive system according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] In the following description, an interlocking engagement device 10 according to an embodiment, and a vehicle drive system 100 equipped therewith, will be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle drive unit 100 includes, in addition to the meshing engagement device 10, an input member I, an output member O, a first rotating electric motor MG1, a second rotating electric motor MG2, a distribution differential gear mechanism SP, and a power transmission mechanism PT. In this embodiment, the vehicle drive unit 100 further includes an output differential gear mechanism DF.

[0013] The input member I is a member that is driven and connected to the internal combustion engine EG. The output member O is a member that is driven and connected to the wheel W.

[0014] Herein, in this application, "drive connection" refers to a state in which two rotating elements are connected in a manner that can transmit driving force, and includes a state in which the two rotating elements are connected so as to rotate as a whole, or a state in which the two rotating elements are connected in a manner that can transmit driving force via one or more transmission members. Such transmission members include various members that transmit rotation at the same speed or at a variable speed, such as shafts, gear mechanisms, belts, chains, etc. In addition, the transmission members may also include engagement devices that selectively transmit rotation and driving force, such as friction engagement devices, meshing engagement devices, etc. However, when referring to "drive connection" for each rotating element of a planetary gear mechanism, it refers to a state in which they are connected to each other without the need for other rotating elements.

[0015] In this embodiment, the input member I is a shaft member connected to the output element (crankshaft, etc.) of the internal combustion engine EG so as to rotate integrally with it. The internal combustion engine EG is a prime mover (gasoline engine, diesel engine, etc.) that is driven by the combustion of fuel to produce power.

[0016] In the following, the direction along the first axis X1, which is the rotation axis of the input member I, will be referred to as the "axial direction L". One side of the axial direction L will be referred to as the "first axial side L1", and the other side of the axial direction L will be referred to as the "second axial side L2". The direction perpendicular to the first axis X1 will be referred to as the "radial direction R".

[0017] The first rotating electric machine MG1 comprises a first stator ST1 and a first rotor RT1. The first stator ST1 is fixed to a non-rotating member. The first rotor RT1 is rotatably supported relative to the first stator ST1. In this embodiment, the first rotating electric machine MG1 is positioned on a first axis X1.

[0018] The second rotating electric machine MG2 includes a second stator ST2 and a second rotor RT2. The second stator ST2 is fixed to a non-rotating member. The second rotor RT2 is rotatably supported with respect to the second stator ST2. In the present embodiment, the second rotating electric machine MG2 is disposed on a second axis X2 that is a different axis from the first axis X1.

[0019] In the present embodiment, each of the first rotating electric machine MG1 and the second rotating electric machine MG2 has a function as a motor (electric motor) that receives power supply and generates power, and a function as a generator (generator) that receives power supply and generates power.

[0020] The differential gear mechanism SP for distribution includes a first rotating element E1, a second rotating element E2, and a third rotating element E3. The order of the rotational speeds of these rotating elements is in the order of the first rotating element E1, the second rotating element E2, and the third rotating element E3. Here, the "order of rotational speeds" refers to the order of the rotational speeds in the rotational state of each rotating element. Although the rotational speeds of each rotating element change depending on the state of the differential gear mechanism, the order of the magnitudes of the rotational speeds of each rotating element is determined by the structure of the differential gear mechanism and thus remains constant.

[0021] In the present embodiment, the differential gear mechanism SP for distribution is disposed coaxially with the input member I and the first rotating electric machine MG1. That is, in the present embodiment, the differential gear mechanism SP for distribution is disposed on the first axis X1.

[0022] The first rotating element E1 is drivingly connected to the first rotor RT1. The second rotating element E2 is drivingly connected to the input member I. The third rotating element E3 is drivingly connected to the output member O and the second rotor RT2.

[0023] In this embodiment, the distribution differential gear mechanism SP is a single-pinion type planetary gear mechanism. Therefore, the first rotating element E1, the second rotating element E2, and the third rotating element E3 are a sun gear, a carrier, and a ring gear, respectively. In this embodiment, the sun gear, which is the first rotating element E1, is connected to the first rotor RT1 via a first rotor shaft RS1 that extends along the axial direction L, so as to rotate integrally with the first rotor RT1. The carrier, which is the second rotating element E2, is connected to the input member I so as to rotate integrally with the input member I.

[0024] The power transmission mechanism PT is configured to drive and connect the distribution differential gear mechanism SP and the output member O. In this embodiment, the power transmission mechanism PT includes a first gear G1, a second gear G2, a third gear G3, and a fourth gear G4.

[0025] The first gear G1 is configured to rotate integrally with the second rotating body 2. The first gear G1 is located on the first axis X1. In this embodiment, the first gear G1 is located on the first axial side L1 with respect to the distribution differential gear mechanism SP.

[0026] The second gear G2 and the third gear G3 are arranged on a third axis X3, which is a separate axis from the first axis X1 and the second axis X2. The second gear G2 meshes with the first gear G1. The third gear G3 is connected to the second gear G2 so as to rotate integrally with it. In this embodiment, the third gear G3 is formed with a smaller diameter than the second gear G2. Furthermore, the third gear G3 is positioned on the second axial side L2 relative to the second gear G2.

[0027] The fourth gear G4 is positioned on the second axis X2. The fourth gear G4 meshes with the second gear G2. The fourth gear G4 is connected to the second rotor RT2 via the second rotor axis RS2, which extends along the axial direction L, so as to rotate integrally with the second rotor RT2.

[0028] The output differential gear mechanism DF is configured to distribute the rotation of the output member O to a pair of wheels W. The output differential gear mechanism DF is located on a fourth axis X4, which is separate from the first axis X1, the second axis X2, and the third axis X3. The output differential gear mechanism DF includes a differential input gear G5. The differential input gear G5 meshes with the third gear G3. In this embodiment, the differential input gear G5 functions as the output member O.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the interlocking engagement device 10 comprises a first rotating body 1, a second rotating body 2, a movable member 3, a first engaged portion 41, and a case 9. In this embodiment, the interlocking engagement device 10 further comprises a second engaged portion 42 and a third engaged portion 43.

[0030] The first rotating body 1 and the second rotating body 2 are arranged coaxially. In this embodiment, the first rotating body 1 and the second rotating body 2 are arranged on the first axis X1. That is, in this embodiment, the rotation axis of the first rotating body 1 and the second rotating body 2 is the first axis X1. Therefore, the axial direction L is in the direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating body 1. Also, the radial direction R is in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the first rotating body 1.

[0031] In this embodiment, the first rotating body 1 is the first cylindrical body C1. The first cylindrical body C1 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the first axis X1 as its axis. The first cylindrical body C1 is connected to the third rotating element E3 so as to rotate integrally with it. In this embodiment, a ring gear, which is the third rotating element E3, is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the first cylindrical body C1.

[0032] In this embodiment, the second rotating body 2 is the second cylindrical body C2. The second cylindrical body C2 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the first axis X1 as its axis. The second cylindrical body C2 is connected to the first gear G1 so as to rotate integrally with it. In this embodiment, the first gear G1 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical body C2.

[0033] The first engaged portion 41 is connected to the second rotating body 2 so as to rotate integrally with it. The second engaged portion 42 is fixed to the case 9. The third engaged portion 43 is connected to the first rotating body 1 so as to rotate integrally with it.

[0034] The movable member 3 is configured to move axially L to connect and disconnect the first rotating body 1 and the second rotating body 2. The movable member 3 has a first engaging portion 31 that engages with the first engaged portion 41. In this embodiment, the movable member 3 further has a second engaging portion 32 that engages with the second engaged portion 42.

[0035] The movable member 3 is supported so as to be movable in the axial direction L relative to the first rotating body 1, while its relative rotation is restricted. In this embodiment, the first engaging portion 31 and the second engaging portion 32 of the movable member 3 are engaged so as to be movable in the axial direction L relative to the third engaged portion 43 connected to the first rotating body 1, while its relative rotation is restricted.

[0036] In this embodiment, the movable member 3 is provided with a pair of protrusions 3a. The pair of protrusions 3a project radially outward R from different positions in the axial direction L on the outer circumferential surface of the movable member 3 so as to form a groove for holding the shift fork F. The shift fork F is formed in an arc shape so that its inner end in the radial direction R follows the groove formed by the pair of protrusions 3a. Thus, when the shift fork F is moved axially L by a predetermined drive mechanism (not shown), it comes into contact with one of the pair of protrusions 3a, and the movable member 3 moves axially L as a result.

[0037] Case 9 is configured to house the first rotating body 1 and the second rotating body 2. In this embodiment, case 9 comprises a first housing chamber 9A and a second housing chamber 9B. Detailed illustrations are omitted, but the first housing chamber 9A houses the first rotating electric machine MG1. The second housing chamber 9B houses the first rotating body 1, the second rotating body 2, the moving member 3, the first engaged part 41, the second engaged part 42, the third engaged part 43, the input member I, the output member O, the distribution differential gear mechanism SP, the power transmission mechanism PT, and the output differential gear mechanism DF.

[0038] In this embodiment, the first engaged portion 41 extends along the axial direction L and is equipped with a plurality of external splines that are dispersed in the circumferential direction around the first axis X1. The first engaged portion 41 is connected to the second cylindrical body C2, which is the second rotating body 2, so as to face the first cylindrical body C1, which is the first rotating body 1, from the first axial side L1. The first engaged portion 41 may be connected to the second cylindrical body C2 by welding, or it may be formed integrally with the second cylindrical body C2.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first engaged portion 41 is positioned inside the first gear G1 in the radial direction R, and overlaps with the first gear G1 in a radial view along the radial direction R. This makes it possible to keep the axial dimension L of the vehicle drive unit 100 small. Here, regarding the arrangement of the two elements, "overlapping in a specific direction view" means that when a virtual line parallel to the line of sight is moved in each direction perpendicular to the virtual line, there exists at least a portion of the region where the virtual line intersects both elements.

[0040] In this embodiment, the second engaged portion 42 extends along the axial direction L and is equipped with a plurality of external splines that are dispersed in the circumferential direction around the first axis X1. The second engaged portion 42 is connected to the side wall portion 91 of the case 9 so as to face the first cylindrical body C1, which is the first rotating body 1, from the second axial side L2. The side wall portion 91 is formed to extend along the radial direction R. The side wall portion 91 is positioned to cover the second housing chamber 9B from the second axial side L2.

[0041] In this embodiment, the third engaged portion 43 extends along the axial direction L and is equipped with a plurality of external splines that are dispersed in the circumferential direction around the first axis X1. The third engaged portion 43 is formed over the entire axial direction L on the outer circumferential surface of the first cylindrical body C1, which is the first rotating body 1.

[0042] In this embodiment, the movable member 3 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the first axis X1 as its axis. The first engaging portion 31 and the second engaging portion 32 of the movable member 3 each extend along the axial direction L and are provided with a plurality of internal splines that are dispersed in the circumferential direction around the first axis X1.

[0043] In this embodiment, the first engaging portion 31 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the movable member 3, extending from the end of the first axial side L1 toward the second axial side L2. The second engaging portion 32 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the movable member 3, extending from the end of the second axial side L2 toward the first axial side L1.

[0044] In this embodiment, the movable member 3 is configured such that the first engaging portion 31 engages only with the third engaging portion 43 without engaging with the first engaged portion 41, and the second engaging portion 32 engages only with the third engaged portion 43 without engaging with the second engaged portion 42 (neutral state).

[0045] Then, as the movable member 3 moves from the neutral position to the first axial side L1, the first engaging portion 31 engages with both the first engaged portion 41 and the third engaged portion 43. At this time, the first gear G1 and the third rotating element E3 of the distribution differential gear mechanism SP are connected so as to rotate together. As a result, the driving force of the internal combustion engine EG is transmitted to the first rotating electric machine MG1 by the distribution differential gear mechanism SP, and also transmitted to the output member O via the first gear G1, the second gear G2, and the third gear G3. In this way, the operating mode of the vehicle drive system 100 becomes a split mode in which the driving force of the internal combustion engine EG is distributed to the first rotating electric machine MG1 and the output member O by the distribution differential gear mechanism SP while the vehicle is running.

[0046] Furthermore, as the movable member 3 moves from the neutral position to the second axial side L2, the second engaging portion 32 engages with both the second engaged portion 42 and the third engaged portion 43. At this time, power transmission between the first gear G1 and the third rotating element E3 of the distribution differential gear mechanism SP is interrupted, and the third rotating element E3 becomes fixed to the case 9. As a result, the driving force of the internal combustion engine EG is transmitted to the first rotating electric machine MG1 via the distribution differential gear mechanism SP without being transmitted to the output member O, and the first rotating electric machine MG1 generates electricity with this driving force. In addition, the driving force of the second rotating electric machine MG2 is transmitted to the output member O via the fourth gear G4, the second gear G2, and the third gear G3. Thus, the operating mode of the vehicle drive system 100 becomes a series hybrid mode in which the first rotating electric machine MG1 generates electricity with the driving force of the internal combustion engine EG, while the wheels W are driven by the driving force of the second rotating electric machine MG2.

[0047] As shown in Figure 2, the second rotating body 2 is rotatably supported by the support portion 8 via a bearing 7. In this embodiment, the bearing 7 supports the second cylindrical body C2, which is the second rotating body 2, from the inside in the radial direction R. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bearing 7 is positioned inside the radial direction R relative to the first gear G1, and overlaps with the first gear G1 in a radial view along the radial direction R. This makes it possible to keep the axial dimension L of the vehicle drive unit 100 small.

[0048] The support portion 8 is formed in the case 9 or the support member 90. In this embodiment, the support portion 8 is formed in a cylindrical shape that extends along the axial direction L.

[0049] In the configuration where the support portion 8 is formed on the case 9, the case 9 includes a partition wall portion 92. The support portion 8 is formed to extend from the partition wall portion 92 in the axial direction second L2. The partition wall portion 92 is formed to extend along the radial direction R. The partition wall portion 92 is located between the first housing chamber 9A and the second housing chamber 9B in the axial direction L.

[0050] On the other hand, in the configuration where the support portion 8 is formed on the support member 90, the support member 90 is fixed to the case 9. The support portion 8 is formed to extend from the support member 90 in the axial direction second L2. The support member 90 is formed to extend along the radial direction R. The support member 90 is positioned between the first housing chamber 9A and the second housing chamber 9B in the axial direction L.

[0051] In this embodiment, the bearing 7 includes a pair of angular contact ball bearings or a pair of tapered roller bearings. In the example shown in Figure 2, the bearing 7 consists of a pair of angular contact ball bearings arranged in the axial direction L.

[0052] Each of the angular contact ball bearing and tapered roller bearing comprises an inner ring 71, an outer ring 72, and rolling elements 73. The inner ring 71 is supported on the outer circumferential surface of the support portion 8. The outer ring 72 is supported on the inner circumferential surface of the second cylindrical body C2, which is the second rotating body 2. The rolling elements 73 are rotatably arranged relative to the inner ring 71 and the outer ring 72 within the radial radius R between them.

[0053] Each of the pair of angular contact ball bearings and the pair of tapered roller bearings is positioned such that their lines of action A are inclined to opposite sides. The line of action A is a virtual line passing through the contact point between the inner ring 71 and the rolling element 73, and the contact point between the outer ring 72 and the rolling element 73. In the example shown in Figure 2, the lines of action A of the pair of angular contact ball bearings are inclined so that they gradually move outward in the radial direction R as they approach each other in the axial direction L.

[0054] In this embodiment, the support portion 8 comprises a bearing support portion 81, a restricting portion 82, and a threaded portion 83.

[0055] The bearing support portion 81 is configured to support the bearing 7 from the inside in the radial direction R. The bearing support portion 81 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the first axis X1 as its axis.

[0056] The restricting portion 82 is configured to restrict the movement of the bearing 7 toward the first axial side L1. In this embodiment, the restricting portion 82 is formed to protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the bearing support portion 81 in the radial direction R. The restricting portion 82 is positioned to abut against the inner ring 71 toward the first axial side L1 from the axial side L1.

[0057] The threaded portion 83 is configured to allow the nut 51 to be screwed onto it. The threaded portion 83 is formed to extend from the bearing support portion 81 in the axial direction to the second side L2. The threaded portion 83 is formed in a cylindrical shape with the first axis X1 as its axis. Male threads corresponding to the female threads formed on the inner surface of the nut 51 are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the threaded portion 83.

[0058] The nut 51 is screwed onto the support portion 8 so as to press the bearing 7 from the second axial side L2. In this embodiment, the nut 51 is screwed onto the threaded portion 83 of the support portion 8 from the second axial side L2. The nut 51 then presses the inner ring 71 on the second axial side L2 from the second axial side L2 via the washer 52.

[0059] Thus, in this embodiment, a radial preload R is applied to the bearing 7 by pressing the angular contact ball bearing or tapered roller bearing from the second axial side L2 with the nut 51. In this embodiment, a restricting member 6 that restricts the movement of the outer ring 72 of the second axial side L2 toward the first axial side L1 is fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the second cylindrical body C2, which is the second rotating body 2. For example, a snap ring can be used as the restricting member 6.

[0060] Thus, in this embodiment, the bearing 7 is positioned between the second rotating body 2 and the support portion 8 in the radial direction R, with a preload in the radial direction R acting upon it.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the nut 51 is positioned radially R inward from at least one (here, both) of the first gear G1 and the first engaged portion 41, and overlaps with at least one (here, both) of the first gear G1 and the first engaged portion 41 in a radial view along the radial direction R. This makes it possible to keep the axial dimension L of the vehicle drive unit 100 small.

[0062] [Other Embodiments] (1) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the first rotating body 1 is connected to the third rotating element E3 of the distribution differential gear mechanism SP so as to rotate integrally was described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and for example, the first rotating body 1 may be connected to various rotating elements of the power transmission mechanism PT so as to rotate integrally.

[0063] (2) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the second rotating body 2 is connected to the first gear G1 of the power transmission mechanism PT so as to rotate integrally was described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and for example, the second rotating body 2 may be connected to the rotating elements of the power transmission mechanism PT other than the first gear G1 so as to rotate integrally.

[0064] (3) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which each of the first engaging portion 31 and the second engaging portion 32 of the movable member 3 is provided with a plurality of internal splines was described as an example. However, the invention is not limited to such a configuration, and each of the first engaging portion 31 and the second engaging portion 32 may be provided with a plurality of external splines.

[0065] (4) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which each of the first engaged portion 41 and the second engaged portion 42 is provided with a plurality of external splines was described as an example. However, the invention is not limited to such a configuration, and each of the first engaged portion 41 and the second engaged portion 42 may be provided with a plurality of internal splines.

[0066] (5) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the restricting portion 82 is formed to protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the bearing support portion 81 in the radial direction R has been described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and for example, the restricting portion 82 may be a snap ring fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the bearing support portion 81, or a nut that is screwed onto the outer circumferential surface of the bearing support portion 81.

[0067] (6) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the nut 51 presses the inner ring 71 via a washer 52 was described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and the nut 51 may directly press the inner ring 71 without the washer 52. Alternatively, instead of using a nut 51, for example, a crimping portion that presses the inner ring 71 from the axial second side L2 may be provided on the support portion 8.

[0068] (7) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the distribution differential gear mechanism SP is a single-pinion type planetary gear mechanism was described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and for example, the distribution differential gear mechanism SP may be a double-pinion type planetary gear mechanism. In this configuration, the first rotating element E1, the second rotating element E2, and the third rotating element E3 of the distribution differential gear mechanism SP are a sun gear, a ring gear, and a carrier, respectively.

[0069] (8) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which the power transmission mechanism PT comprises a first gear G1, a second gear G2, a third gear G3, and a fourth gear G4 was described as an example. However, the power transmission mechanism PT is not limited to such a configuration, and for example, it may be equipped with an engagement device that selectively transmits rotation and driving force.

[0070] (9) The configurations disclosed in each of the embodiments described above can be applied in combination with configurations disclosed in other embodiments, as long as no inconsistencies arise. With regard to other configurations, the embodiments disclosed herein are merely illustrative in all respects. Therefore, various modifications can be made as appropriate without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0071] [Summary of this embodiment] The following describes the meshing engagement device (10) and the vehicle drive system (100) equipped therewith, as explained above.

[0072] The interlocking engagement device (10) is First solid of revolution (1), A second rotating body (2) is arranged coaxially with the first rotating body (1), A case (9) housing the first rotating body (1) and the second rotating body (2), A meshing engagement device (10) comprising a movable member (3) that moves in the axial direction (L) along the rotation axis (X1) of the first rotating body (1) to connect and disconnect the first rotating body (1) and the second rotating body (2), wherein the direction along the rotation axis (X1) of the first rotating body (1) is the axial direction (L), The second rotating body (2) is further connected to a first engaged portion (41) that rotates integrally with it, The movable member (3) is provided with a first engaging portion (31) that engages with the first engaged portion (41), and is supported so as to be movable in the axial direction (L) while its relative rotation with respect to the first rotating body (1) is restricted. The second rotating body (2) is rotatably supported by a bearing (7) with respect to a support portion (8) formed on the case (9) or a support member (90) fixed to the case (9).

[0073] In this configuration, the second rotating body (2), which is provided with the first engaged portion (41), is rotatably supported by a bearing (7) on a support portion (8) formed on the case (9) or a support member (90) fixed to the case (9). This makes it easier to minimize the tilt of the axis of the first engaged portion (41) compared to a configuration in which, for example, the shaft member supporting the movable member (3) is rotatably supported on the case (9), and the second rotating body (2) is rotatably supported on the shaft member via a bearing (7). Therefore, the possibility of unintentional disengagement between the first engaged portion (31) and the first engaged portion (41) can be reduced.

[0074] Here, the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (X1) of the first rotating body (1) is defined as the radial direction (R), Preferably, the bearing (7) is positioned between the second rotating body (2) and the support portion (8) in the radial direction (R) when the radial direction (R) preload is applied.

[0075] This configuration makes it possible to reduce the radial (R) clearance inside the bearing (7). This makes it easier to further reduce the inclination of the axis of the first engaged portion (41).

[0076] In the above configuration, the support portion (8) is formed in a cylindrical shape that extends along the axial direction (L), The bearing (7) includes a pair of angular contact ball bearings or a pair of tapered roller bearings supported on the outer circumferential surface of the support portion (8), and whose lines of action (A) are inclined toward opposite sides. One side of the axial direction (L) is designated as the first axial side (L1), and the other side of the axial direction (L) is designated as the second axial side (L2). The support portion (8) includes a restricting portion (82) that restricts the movement of the bearing (7) toward the first axial direction (L1), It is preferable that the nut (51) that presses the bearing (7) from the second axial side (L2) is screwed onto the support portion (8).

[0077] This configuration allows for an appropriate radial (R) preload to be applied to the bearing (7). Furthermore, the magnitude of the radial (R) preload applied to the bearing (7) can be easily adjusted by changing the degree of screwing of the nut (51).

[0078] The vehicle drive system (100) is The above-mentioned interlocking engagement device (10), An input member (I) that is driven and connected to an internal combustion engine (EG), An output member (O) is driven and connected to the wheel (W), A first rotating electric machine (MG1) equipped with a first rotor (RT1), A second rotating electric machine (MG2) equipped with a second rotor (RT2), A distribution differential gear mechanism (SP) comprising a first rotating element (E1), a second rotating element (E2), and a third rotating element (E3), A vehicle drive system (100) comprising a power transmission mechanism (PT) that drives and connects the distribution differential gear mechanism (SP) and the output member (O), The first rotating element (E1) is driven and connected to the first rotor (RT1), The second rotating element (E2) is driven and connected to the input member (I), The third rotating element (E3) is driven and connected to the output member (O) and the second rotor (RT2), The first rotating body (1) is configured to rotate integrally with the third rotating element (E3), The power transmission mechanism (PT) comprises a first gear (G1) that rotates integrally with the second rotating body (2), and a second gear (G2) that is rotatably supported on an axis separate from the rotation axis (X1) of the first rotating body (1) and meshes with the first gear (G1). The aforementioned interlocking engagement device (10) further comprises a second engaged portion (42) fixed to the case (9), The movable member (3) is provided with a second engaging portion (32) that engages with the second engaged portion (42).

[0079] With this configuration, by moving the movable member (3) of the meshing engagement device, the operating mode can be switched between a split mode in which the driving force of the internal combustion engine (EG) is distributed to the first rotating electric machine (MG1) and the output member (O) by the distribution differential gear mechanism (SP) while the vehicle is running, and a series hybrid mode in which the driving force of the internal combustion engine (EG) is used to generate electricity in the first rotating electric machine (MG1) while the driving force of the second rotating electric machine (MG2) drives the wheels (W) while the vehicle is running. [Industrial applicability]

[0080] The technology relating to this disclosure can be used in a meshing engagement device comprising a first rotating body, a second rotating body arranged coaxially with the first rotating body, a case housing the first and second rotating bodies, and a movable member for connecting and disconnecting the first and second rotating bodies, and in a vehicle drive system equipped therewith. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 100: Vehicle drive unit, 10: Meshing engagement device, 1: First rotating body, 2: Second rotating body, 3: Moving member, 31: First engaging part, 32: Second engaging part, 41: First engaged part, 42: Second engaged part, 51: Nut, 7: Bearing, 71: Inner ring, 72: Outer ring, 73: Rolling element, 8: Support part, 82: Regulating part, 9: Case, 90: Support member, C1: First cylindrical body, C2: Second cylindrical body, G1: First gear Ya, G2: Second gear, I: Input member, O: Output member, MG1: First rotating electric machine, RT1: First rotor, MG2: Second rotating electric machine, RT2: Second rotor, SP: Differential gear mechanism for distribution, E1: First rotating element, E2: Second rotating element, E3: Third rotating element, PT: Power transmission mechanism, EG: Internal combustion engine, W: Wheel, A: Line of action, L: Axial direction, L1: First axial side, L2: Second axial side, R: Radial direction

Claims

1. The first rotating body and, A second rotating body is arranged coaxially with the first rotating body, A case for housing the first rotating body and the second rotating body, A meshing engagement device comprising: a movable member that moves in the axial direction with the direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating body as the axial direction, to connect and disconnect the first rotating body and the second rotating body, The second rotating body further comprises a first engaged portion connected to it so as to rotate integrally with it, The movable member is provided with a first engaging portion that engages with the first engaged portion, and is supported so as to be movable in the axial direction while its relative rotation with respect to the first rotating body is restricted. The second rotating body is rotatably supported via a bearing on the case or a support member fixed to the case, in a meshing engagement device.

2. The direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the first rotating body is defined as the radial direction, The meshing engagement device according to claim 1, wherein the bearing is positioned between the second rotating body and the support portion in the radial direction while the radial preload is applied.

3. The support portion is formed in a cylindrical shape that extends along the axial direction, The bearing includes a pair of angular contact ball bearings or a pair of tapered roller bearings supported on the outer circumferential surface of the support portion, with their lines of action inclined toward opposite sides. One side in the axial direction is designated as the first axial side, and the other side in the axial direction is designated as the second axial side. The support portion includes a restricting portion that restricts the axial movement of the bearing toward the first side, The meshing engagement device according to claim 2, wherein a nut that presses the bearing from the second axial side is screwed onto the support portion.

4. An interlocking engagement device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, An input member that is driven and connected to an internal combustion engine, An output member that is driven and connected to the wheel, A first rotating electric machine equipped with a first rotor, A second rotating electric machine equipped with a second rotor, A differential gear mechanism for distribution, comprising a first rotating element, a second rotating element, and a third rotating element, A vehicle drive system comprising a power transmission mechanism that drives and connects the distribution differential gear mechanism and the output member, The first rotating element is driven and connected to the first rotor, The second rotating element is driven and connected to the input member, The third rotating element is driven and connected to the output member and the second rotor. The first rotating body is configured to rotate integrally with the third rotating element, The power transmission mechanism comprises a first gear that rotates integrally with the second rotating body, and a second gear that is rotatably supported on an axis separate from the rotation axis of the first rotating body and meshes with the first gear. The aforementioned interlocking engagement device further comprises a second engaged portion fixed to the case, The aforementioned moving member is a vehicle drive device comprising a second engaging portion that engages with the second engaged portion.

Images