Vehicle bearing structure
The vehicle bearing structure addresses displacement issues by using a non-circular interlocking design with a case, sleeve, and plate, providing cost-effective and stable support for shafts without the need for additional bolts, ensuring precise assembly and compact size.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- DAIHATSU MOTOR CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-25
AI Technical Summary
Existing vehicle bearing structures face challenges in suppressing the displacement of members that support shafts, which can lead to instability and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for additional components like long bolts.
A vehicle bearing structure comprising a case, sleeve, and plate with non-circular shapes and insertion portions that interlock to prevent relative rotation and displacement, utilizing a compact plate instead of bolts for cost-effective and precise assembly.
The structure effectively suppresses sleeve displacement, reduces manufacturing costs, and allows for compact design while ensuring precise assembly and preventing incorrect installation, enhancing stability and efficiency.
Smart Images
Figure 2026104710000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a bearing structure for a vehicle.
Background Art
[0002] As an invention related to a conventional bearing structure for a vehicle, for example, a rotating shaft device for a vehicle transmission described in Patent Document 1 is known. This rotating shaft device for a vehicle transmission includes a displacement restricting member for suppressing displacement in the thrust direction of the bearing.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] As described above, in the field of bearing structures for vehicles, it is required to suppress displacement of a member that supports a shaft.
[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a bearing structure for a vehicle that can suppress displacement of a member that supports a shaft.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] A first aspect is that the bearing structure for a vehicle includes a case, a sleeve, and a plate, the sleeve has a cylindrical shape having a central axis extending in a first direction, the plate has an annular shape when viewed in the first direction, the case is provided with a first recess to which the sleeve is attached and a second recess to which the plate is attached, The second recess has a second bottom surface located in the first direction and a second opening located in the second direction which is opposite to the first direction. The first recess is recessed in the first direction from the second bottom surface and has a first bottom surface located in the first direction and a first opening located in the second direction. The inner circumferential surface of the plate has a non-circular portion of the first plate's inner circumferential surface that has a shape different from a circular shape when viewed in the first direction. The outer circumferential surface of the plate has one or more first insertion portions that protrude in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. The outer circumferential surface of the sleeve has a non-circular portion of the first sleeve outer circumferential surface that has a shape different from a circular shape when viewed in the first direction. The inner circumferential surface of the second recess has one or more first insertion portions that are recessed in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. When the sleeve and the plate are attached to the case, the non-circular portion of the inner circumferential surface of the first plate contacts the non-circular portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first sleeve, and each of the one or more first insertion portions is inserted into the one or more first insertion portions. The shaft extending in the first direction is inserted into the sleeve. Vehicle bearing structure. That is the case.
[0007] The second aspect is, The inner circumferential surface of the plate further includes a second non-circular portion of the inner circumferential surface of the plate, which has a shape different from that of a circle when viewed in the first direction. Viewed in the first direction, the non-circular portion of the inner surface of the first plate, the center of the inner surface of the plate, and the non-circular portion of the inner surface of the second plate are arranged in this order in the sixth direction. The outer circumferential surface of the sleeve further has a non-circular portion of the second sleeve outer circumferential surface that has a shape different from the circular shape when viewed in the first direction. When the sleeve and the plate are attached to the case, the non-circular portion of the inner circumferential surface of the second plate contacts the non-circular portion of the outer circumferential surface of the second sleeve. A straight line that, when viewed in the first direction, is perpendicular to the sixth direction and passes through the center of the inner circumferential surface of the plate is defined as the first straight line. Viewed in the first direction, each of the one or more first insertion portions has a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line, or the one or more first insertion portions have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line. This is a vehicle bearing structure as described on the first side.
[0008] The third aspect is, The outer circumferential surface of the plate further has one or more second insertion portions that protrude in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. The inner circumferential surface of the second recess further has one or more second insertion portions that are recessed in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. When the sleeve and the plate are attached to the case, each of the one or more second insertion portions is inserted into the one or more second insertion portions. Viewed in the first direction, each of the one or more second insertion portions does not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line, or the one or more second insertion portions do not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line. This is a vehicle bearing structure as described on the second side.
[0009] The fourth aspect is, The aforementioned vehicle bearing structure further comprises bearings, The bearing includes a support portion supported by the case, supports the shaft, and is located in the second direction relative to the plate. At least a portion of the plate overlaps with the support portion when viewed in the first direction. This is a vehicle bearing structure as described in either the first or third side view. [Effects of the Invention]
[0010] According to the present invention, the displacement of the member supporting the shaft can be suppressed.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a vehicle bearing structure 10. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle bearing structure 10. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle bearing structure 10 taken along A-A of FIG. 4. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10 viewed in the first direction D1. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10a viewed in the first direction D1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10b viewed in the first direction D1. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10c viewed in the first direction D1.
Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention
[0012] (Embodiment) [Structure of the Vehicle Bearing Structure 10] The structure of a vehicle bearing structure 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the vehicle bearing structure 10. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle bearing structure 10. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the vehicle bearing structure 10 taken along A-A of FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10 viewed in the first direction D1. Hereinafter, the direction in which the central axis of the sleeve 14 extends is defined as the first direction D1. Also, the opposite direction of the first direction is defined as the second direction D2.
[0013] The vehicle bearing structure 10 is applied to a transmission or a differential transmission device of an automobile, etc. In this embodiment, the vehicle bearing structure 10 is a part of a differential transmission device of an automobile. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the vehicle bearing structure 10 includes a case 12, a sleeve 14, a plate 16, and a bearing 17.
[0014] First, let's describe case 12. Case 12 is the case for a differential transmission. Therefore, the case houses multiple shafts and gears. Figures 1 to 4 are enlarged views of the vicinity of the end of the shaft 18 inside case 12. As shown in Figure 1, case 12 has a main surface S0 facing a second direction. The main surface S0 of case 12 is provided with a first recess G1, a second recess G2, and a third recess G3.
[0015] The third recess G3 forms a cylindrical space. As shown in Figure 3, the third recess G3 has a third base B3, a third side surface S3, and a third opening Op3. The third base B3 is located at the end of the third recess G3 in the first direction D1. The third base B3 is a plane facing the second direction D2. The third base B3 has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The third opening Op3 is located at the end of the third recess G3 in the second direction D2. The third opening Op3 has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The third side surface S3 is a curved surface connecting the outer edge of the third base B3 and the outer edge of the third opening Op3. The third side surface S3 has a cylindrical shape.
[0016] The second recess G2 forms a cylindrical space. The diameter of the second recess G2 is smaller than the diameter of the third recess G3. As shown in Figure 3, the second recess G2 has a second base B2, a second side surface S2, and a second opening Op2. The second base B2 is located at the end of the second recess G2 in the first direction D1. The second base B2 is a plane facing the second direction D2. The second base B2 has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The second opening Op2 is located at the end of the second recess G2 in the second direction D2. The second opening Op2 has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The second side surface S2 is a curved surface connecting the outer edge of the second base B2 and the outer edge of the second opening Op2. The second side surface S2 has a cylindrical shape.
[0017] The second recess G2 is located in a first direction D1 relative to the third recess G3. More specifically, the second opening Op2 is contained within the third base surface B3. Furthermore, the center of the second opening Op2 coincides with the center of the third base surface B3. Thus, the second recess G2 is recessed in a first direction D1 relative to the third base surface B3.
[0018] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the inner circumferential surface of the second recess G2 has, when viewed in the first direction D1, first insertion portions P31 and P32 and second insertion portion P33. The first insertion portion P31 forms a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped space. The first insertion portion P31 is recessed in the third direction D3, away from the center C0 of the plate 16, which will be described later, when viewed in the first direction D1. Also, as shown in Figure 3, the first insertion portion P31 is recessed in the first direction D1 from the third bottom surface B3. As shown in Figure 2, the bottom surface B31 of the first insertion portion P31 is located slightly in the first direction D1 than the second bottom surface B2.
[0019] The first insertion portion P32 forms a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped space. The first insertion portion P32 is recessed in a fourth direction D4, away from the center C0 of the plate 16 (described later), when viewed in a first direction D1. In this embodiment, the fourth direction D4 is perpendicular to the third direction D3. More specifically, the fourth direction is the direction obtained by rotating the third direction D3 90 degrees clockwise around the center C0 of the plate 16. The second insertion portion P33 is recessed in the first direction D1 from the third bottom surface B3. The bottom surface B32 (not shown) of the first insertion portion P32 is located slightly in the first direction D1 than the second bottom surface B2.
[0020] The second insertion portion P33 forms a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped space. The second insertion portion P33 is recessed in a fifth direction D5, away from the center C0 of the plate 16 (described later), when viewed in the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the fifth direction is the direction obtained by rotating the third direction D3 90 degrees counterclockwise around the center C0 of the plate 16. The second insertion portion P33 is also recessed in the first direction D1 from the third bottom surface B3. The bottom surface B33 (not shown) of the second insertion portion P33 is located slightly in the first direction D1 from the second bottom surface B2.
[0021] The first recess G1 forms a cylindrical space. The diameter of the first recess G1 is smaller than the diameter of the second recess G2. As shown in Figure 3, the first recess G1 has a first bottom surface B1, a first side surface S1, and a first opening Op1. The first bottom surface B1 is located at the end of the first recess G1 in the first direction D1. The first bottom surface B1 is a plane facing the second direction D2. The first bottom surface B1 has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The first opening Op1 is located at the end of the first recess G1 in the second direction D2. The first opening Op1 has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The first side surface S1 is a curved surface connecting the outer edge of the first bottom surface B1 and the outer edge of the first opening Op1. The first side surface S1 has a cylindrical shape.
[0022] The first recess G1 is located in a first direction D1 relative to the second recess G2. More specifically, the first opening Op1 is contained within the second base surface B2. Furthermore, the center of the first opening Op1 coincides with the center of the second base surface B2. Thus, the first recess G1 is recessed in a first direction D1 from the second base surface B2.
[0023] Furthermore, an outer edge portion 12a is provided around the third recess G3. The outer edge portion 12a has an annular shape that surrounds the third recess G3 when viewed in the first direction D1. The third recess G3 protrudes from the main surface S0 in the second direction D2.
[0024] As described above, case 12 is made of, for example, cast iron. Specifically, case 12 is formed by casting. In this case, the first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3 are not formed in case 12 during casting. The first insertion parts P31, P32 and the second insertion part P33 are formed in case 12 during casting. Next, the first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3 are formed by cutting the case 12 with a drill.
[0025] Next, the sleeve 14 will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the sleeve 14 has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending in a first direction D1. Thus, the sleeve 14 has an inner circumferential surface 14i and an outer circumferential surface 14o. As shown in Figure 4, the inner circumferential surface 14i has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. However, the end of the inner circumferential surface 14i in the second direction D2 has a tapered shape. That is, the diameter of the end of the inner circumferential surface 14i in the second direction D2 decreases as it moves towards the first direction D1.
[0026] As shown in Figure 4, the outer circumferential surface 14o of the end of the sleeve 14 in the second direction D2 has a first sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1a, a second sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1b, and sleeve outer circumferential surface circular portions P2a and P2b. The first sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1a and the second sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1b have a shape different from a circular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The first sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1a and the second sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1b have a linear shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The perpendicular bisectors of the first sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1a and the second sleeve outer circumferential surface noncircular portion P1b each pass through the center C0.
[0027] The circular portions P2a and P2b on the outer surface of the sleeve have a circular shape (more precisely, an arc shape) when viewed in the first direction D1. The circular portion P2a on the outer surface of the sleeve connects the upstream end of the non-circular portion P1a on the outer surface of the first sleeve in the clockwise direction to the downstream end of the non-circular portion P1b on the outer surface of the second sleeve in the clockwise direction. The circular portion P2b on the outer surface of the sleeve connects the downstream end of the non-circular portion P1a on the outer surface of the first sleeve in the clockwise direction to the upstream end of the non-circular portion P1b on the outer surface of the second sleeve in the clockwise direction. The sleeve 14 as described above is made of carbon steel.
[0028] The sleeve 14 is attached to the first recess G1. At this time, the sleeve 14 is press-fitted into the first recess G1. As a result, the outer peripheral surface 14o of the sleeve 14 comes into contact with the first side surface S1 of the first recess G1.
[0029] Next, the plate 16 will be described. The plate 16 has an annular shape when viewed in the first direction D1. Therefore, the plate 16 has an inner circumferential surface 16i and an outer circumferential surface 16o when viewed in the first direction D1.
[0030] As shown in Figure 4, the inner circumferential surface 16i of plate 16 has a first non-circular portion P11a, a second non-circular portion P11b, and circular portions P12a and P12b. The first non-circular portion P11a and the second non-circular portion P11b have a shape different from a circle when viewed in the first direction D1. The first non-circular portion P11a and the second non-circular portion P11b have a linear shape when viewed in the first direction D1. The perpendicular bisectors of the first non-circular portion P11a and the second non-circular portion P11b each pass through the center C0.
[0031] Viewed in the first direction D1, the non-circular portion P11a on the inner surface of the first plate, the center C0 on the inner surface of plate 16, and the non-circular portion P11b on the inner surface of the second plate are aligned in this order in the sixth direction D6. Therefore, the center C0 is located between the non-circular portion P11a on the inner surface of the first plate and the non-circular portion P11b on the inner surface of the second plate.
[0032] The circular portions P12a and P12b on the inner circumferential surface of the plate have a circular shape (more precisely, an arc shape) when viewed in the first direction D1. The circular portion P12a on the inner circumferential surface of the plate connects the upstream end in the clockwise direction of the non-circular portion P11a on the first inner circumferential surface of the plate to the downstream end in the clockwise direction of the non-circular portion P11b on the second inner circumferential surface of the plate. The circular portion P12b on the inner circumferential surface of the plate connects the downstream end in the clockwise direction of the non-circular portion P11a on the first inner circumferential surface of the plate to the upstream end in the clockwise direction of the non-circular portion P11b on the second inner circumferential surface of the plate.
[0033] The outer circumferential surface 16o of the plate 16 has a circular shape when viewed in a first direction D1. However, the outer circumferential surface 16o of the plate 16 has first insertion portions P21 and P22 and a second insertion portion P23. The first insertion portion P21 protrudes in a third direction D3 from the circular portion of the outer circumferential surface 16o when viewed in a first direction D1. The first insertion portion P22 protrudes in a fourth direction D4 from the circular portion of the outer circumferential surface 16o when viewed in a first direction D1. The second insertion portion P23 protrudes in a fifth direction D5 from the circular portion of the outer circumferential surface 16o when viewed in a first direction D1.
[0034] Furthermore, the first straight line L1 is defined as a straight line that, when viewed in the first direction D1, is perpendicular to the sixth direction D6 and passes through the center C0 of the inner circumferential surface 16i of the plate 16. When viewed in the first direction D1, the first insertion portions P21 and P22 have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. On the other hand, when viewed in the first direction D1, the second insertion portion P23 does not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. The plate 16 described above is made of carbon steel.
[0035] The plate 16 is attached to the second recess G2. At this time, the end of the sleeve 14 in the second direction D2 is inserted into the sleeve 14. When the sleeve 14 and the plate 16 are attached to the case 12, the following relationship holds. The inner circular portions P12a and P12b of the plate are in contact with the outer circular portions P2a and P2b of the sleeve. The non-circular portion P11a on the inner surface of the first plate contacts the non-circular portion P1a on the outer surface of the first sleeve. The non-circular portion P11b on the inner surface of the second plate contacts the non-circular portion P1b on the outer surface of the second sleeve. The first insertion parts P21 and P22 are inserted into the first insertion parts P31 and P32, respectively. The second insertion part P23 is inserted into the second insertion part P33.
[0036] Next, the bearing 17 will be described. The bearing 17 is a ball bearing. The bearing 17 includes a shaft 17a, a roller 17b, and a support 17c. The roller 17b has a cylindrical shape. The shaft 17a extends in a first direction D1. The shaft 17a passes through the roller 17b in the first direction D1. This allows the roller 17b to rotate around the shaft 17a. The support 17c supports the end of the shaft 17a in the first direction D1 and the end of the shaft 17a in a second direction D2. Furthermore, the support 17c is supported by the case 12 by being attached to a third recess G3. At least a portion of the plate 16 overlaps with the support 17c when viewed in the first direction D1. This positions the bearing 17 further than the plate 16 in the second direction D2. However, the bearing 17 does not touch the plate 16. There is a small gap between the bearing 17 and the plate 16.
[0037] The vehicle bearing structure 10 described above rotatably supports the shaft 18. More specifically, as shown in Figure 2, the shaft 18 extends in a first direction D1. The shaft 18 includes a first part 18a, a second part 18b, and a third part 18c. The first part 18a, the second part 18b, and the third part 18c have a cylindrical shape. The diameter of the first part 18a is smaller than the diameter of the second part 18b. The diameter of the second part 18b is smaller than the diameter of the third part 18c. The first part 18a, the second part 18b, and the third part 18c are arranged in this order in the second direction D2.
[0038] The first end of the shaft 18 in direction D1 is inserted into the first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3. More specifically, the first portion 18a (shaft 18) is inserted into the sleeve 14. The second portion 18b is inserted into the bearing 17. Thus, the bearing 17 supports the shaft 18.
[0039] [effect] The vehicle bearing structure 10 can suppress the displacement of the sleeve 14 that supports the shaft 18. More specifically, when the shaft 18 rotates, the sleeve 14 is subjected to a rotational force by the shaft 18. In the vehicle bearing structure 10, the first insertion portions P21 and P22 are inserted into the first insertion portions P31 and P32, respectively. As a result, the plate 16 cannot rotate relative to the case 12. Furthermore, the non-circular portion P11a on the inner surface of the first plate contacts the non-circular portion P1a on the outer surface of the first sleeve. As a result, the sleeve 14 cannot rotate relative to the plate 16. Therefore, the sleeve 14 cannot rotate relative to the case 12. Consequently, the vehicle bearing structure 10 can suppress the displacement of the sleeve 14 that supports the shaft 18.
[0040] One method for suppressing the displacement of the sleeve 14 is to insert a long bolt into the case 12 from above, as shown in Figure 3. The lower end of the bolt contacts the outer circumferential surface 14o of the sleeve 14. This suppresses the rotation of the sleeve 14.
[0041] However, it is difficult to secure space for bolts in the vehicle bearing structure 10. Furthermore, the presence of bolts would increase manufacturing costs.
[0042] In contrast, the vehicle bearing structure 10 allows for the suppression of sleeve 14 displacement by the compact plate 16. Furthermore, the price of the plate 16 is lower than the price of a long bolt. Therefore, the vehicle bearing structure 10 can be manufactured at a low cost and its size can be made more compact.
[0043] The vehicle bearing structure 10 reduces the possibility that an assembler may install the plate 16 into the case 12 with the front and back sides reversed. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction D1, the second insertion part P23 does not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. As a result, if the front and back sides of the plate 16 are reversed, the second insertion part P23 will not be inserted into the second insertion part P33. Therefore, the plate 16 cannot be installed in the case 12. Thus, the vehicle bearing structure 10 reduces the possibility that an assembler may install the plate 16 into the case 12 with the front and back sides reversed.
[0044] In the vehicle bearing structure 10, the bearing 17 is located in a second direction D2 relative to the plate 16. At least a portion of the plate 16 overlaps with the support portion 17c when viewed in the first direction D1. As a result, the bearing 17 restricts the plate 16 from moving in the second direction D2.
[0045] The vehicle bearing structure 10 allows the plate 16 to be positioned with high precision. More specifically, the case 12 is formed by casting. In this case, the first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3 are not formed in the case 12 by casting. On the other hand, the first insertion parts P31, P32 and the second insertion part P33 are formed in the case 12 by casting. Next, the case 12 is cut by drilling to form the first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3.
[0046] Here, the surface roughness of the surface formed by casting is greater than the surface roughness of the surface formed by cutting with a drill. Therefore, it is preferable that the surface used for positioning the plate 16 is the surface formed by cutting with a drill.
[0047] The first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3 are circular in shape. Therefore, the first recess G1, the second recess G2, and the third recess G3 can be easily formed by drilling. On the other hand, the first insertion parts P31, P32 and the second insertion part P33 are not circular in shape. Therefore, if the first insertion parts P31, P32, and the second insertion part P33 are formed by drilling, the processing cost of case 12 will increase significantly. For this reason, the first insertion parts P31, P32, and the second insertion part P33 are formed by casting.
[0048] However, the first insertion parts P21, P22 and the second insertion part P23 are inserted into the first insertion parts P31, P32 and the second insertion part P33, respectively. Therefore, if the bottom surfaces B31 to B33 of the first insertion parts P31, P32 and the second insertion part P33 are used for positioning the plate 16, the positioning accuracy of the plate 16 will decrease.
[0049] Therefore, in the vehicle bearing structure 10, the bottom surfaces of the first insertion parts P31 and P32 and the second insertion part P33 do not come into contact with the plate 16. As a result, the vehicle bearing structure 10 allows the plate 16 to be positioned with high precision.
[0050] Furthermore, the end of the inner circumferential surface 14i in the second direction D2 has a tapered shape. That is, the diameter of the end of the inner circumferential surface 14i in the second direction D2 decreases as you move towards the first direction D1. This facilitates the insertion of the shaft 18 into the sleeve 14.
[0051] (First variation) The following describes the vehicle bearing structure 10a according to the first modified example, with reference to the drawings. Figure 5 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10a in the first direction D1.
[0052] The vehicle bearing structure 10a differs from the vehicle bearing structure 10 in that the plate 16 has one first insertion portion P21, and the plate 16 does not have a second insertion portion P23. These differences are described below.
[0053] The first insertion portion P21 protrudes in the third direction D3. The third direction D3 is not parallel to the first straight line L1. Therefore, the first insertion portion P21 does not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. The other structures of the vehicle bearing structure 10a are the same as those of the vehicle bearing structure 10, so their description is omitted. The vehicle bearing structure 10a has the same effect as the vehicle bearing structure 10.
[0054] Furthermore, the vehicle bearing structure 10a reduces the possibility that an assembler may install the plate 16 into the case 12 with the front and back sides reversed. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction D1, the first insertion part P21 does not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. As a result, if the front and back sides of the plate 16 are reversed, the first insertion part P21 will not be inserted into the first insertion part P31. Therefore, the plate 16 cannot be installed in the case 12. Thus, the vehicle bearing structure 10a reduces the possibility that an assembler may install the plate 16 into the case 12 with the front and back sides reversed.
[0055] (Second variation) The vehicle bearing structure 10b according to the second modified example will be described below with reference to the drawings. Figure 6 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10b in the first direction D1.
[0056] The vehicle bearing structure 10b differs from the vehicle bearing structure 10 in that the plate 16 has one first insertion portion P21, and the plate 16 does not have a second insertion portion P23. These differences are described below.
[0057] The first insertion portion P21 protrudes in the third direction D3. The third direction D3 is parallel to the first straight line L1. Therefore, with respect to the first direction D1, the first insertion portion P21 has a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. The other structures of the vehicle bearing structure 10b are the same as those of the vehicle bearing structure 10, so their description is omitted. The vehicle bearing structure 10b has the same effect as the vehicle bearing structure 10.
[0058] Furthermore, according to the vehicle bearing structure 10b, the assembler can easily attach the plate 16 to the case 12. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction D1, the first insertion part P21 has a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. As a result, regardless of whether the plate 16 is facing up or down, the first insertion part P21 is inserted into the first insertion part P31. Therefore, regardless of whether the plate 16 is facing up or down, the plate 16 is attached to the case 12. Thus, according to the vehicle bearing structure 10b, the assembler can easily attach the plate 16 to the case 12.
[0059] (Third variation) The following describes the vehicle bearing structure 10c according to the third modified example, with reference to the drawings. Figure 7 is a plan view of the vehicle bearing structure 10c in the first direction D1.
[0060] The vehicle bearing structure 10c differs from the vehicle bearing structure 10 in that the plate 16 further includes a second insertion portion P24. These differences are described below.
[0061] The second insertion portion P24 protrudes in the seventh direction D7. Viewed in the first direction D1, the second insertion portion P23 and the second insertion portion P24 do not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. The other structures of the vehicle bearing structure 10c are the same as those of the vehicle bearing structure 10, so their description is omitted. The vehicle bearing structure 10c provides the same effect as the vehicle bearing structure 10.
[0062] Furthermore, the vehicle bearing structure 10c reduces the possibility that an assembler may install the plate 16 into the case 12 with the front and back sides reversed. More specifically, when viewed in the first direction D1, the second insertion part P23 and the second insertion part P24 do not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first straight line L1. As a result, if the front and back sides of the plate 16 are reversed, the second insertion parts P23 and P24, respectively, will not be inserted into the second insertion parts P33 and P34. Therefore, the plate 16 cannot be installed in the case 12. Thus, the vehicle bearing structure 10c reduces the possibility that an assembler may install the plate 16 into the case 12 with the front and back sides reversed.
[0063] (Other embodiments) The vehicle bearing structure according to the present invention is not limited to vehicle bearing structures 10, 10a to 10c, but can be modified within the scope of its gist. Furthermore, the structures of vehicle bearing structures 10, 10a to 10c may be arbitrarily combined.
[0064] Note that the non-circular portion P11b on the inner surface of the second plate and the non-circular portion P1b on the outer surface of the second sleeve are not essential components.
[0065] The number of circular portions on the inner surface of the plate and the number of circular portions on the outer surface of the sleeve only needs to be one or more.
[0066] Furthermore, the outer circumferential surface 14o of the sleeve 14 at the end in the second direction D2 has a first sleeve outer circumferential surface non-circular portion P1a, a second sleeve outer circumferential surface non-circular portion P1b, and sleeve outer circumferential surface circular portions P2a and P2b. The outer circumferential surface 14o of the sleeve 14 other than the end in the second direction D2 does not have the first sleeve outer circumferential surface non-circular portion P1a or the second sleeve outer circumferential surface non-circular portion P1b. However, each of the first sleeve outer circumferential surface non-circular portion P1a, the second sleeve outer circumferential surface non-circular portion P1b, and the sleeve outer circumferential surface circular portions P2a and P2b may exist from the end of the sleeve 14 in the first direction D1 to the end of the sleeve 14 in the second direction D2.
[0067] In addition, a bearing support member other than a bearing may be used instead of the bearing 17. [Explanation of symbols]
[0068] 10, 10a~10c: Vehicle bearing structure 12: Case 12a: Outer edge 14: Sleeves 14i: Inner surface 14o: Outer surface 16: Plate 16i: Inner surface 16o: Outer surface 17: Bearings 18: Shaft 18a: Part 1 18b:Second part 18c: 3rd part B1: 1st bottom surface B2: 2nd bottom surface B3: 3rd bottom B31~B33: Bottom surface C0: Center G1: First recess G2: Second recess G3: Third recess L1: 1st straight line Op1: 1st opening Op2: Second opening Op3: 3rd opening P11a, P11b: Non-circular portion of the inner surface of the first plate P12a, P12b: Circular portion of the inner surface of the plate P1a: Non-circular portion of the outer surface of the first sleeve P1b: Non-circular portion of the outer surface of the second sleeve P21, P22: First insertion section P23, P24: Second insertion section P2a, P2b: Circular portion on the outer surface of the sleeve P31,P32: 1st inserted part P33: 2nd inserted part P34: 2nd inserted part S0: Main surface S1: 1st side S2:Second side S3: Third aspect
Claims
1. The vehicle bearing structure comprises a case, a sleeve, and a plate. The sleeve has a cylindrical shape with a central axis extending in a first direction, The plate has an annular shape when viewed in the first direction, The case is provided with a first recess into which the sleeve is attached and a second recess into which the plate is attached. The second recess has a second bottom surface located in the first direction and a second opening located in the second direction which is opposite to the first direction. The first recess is recessed in the first direction from the second bottom surface and has a first bottom surface located in the first direction and a first opening located in the second direction. The inner circumferential surface of the plate has a non-circular portion of the first plate inner circumferential surface that has a shape different from a circular shape when viewed in the first direction. The outer circumferential surface of the plate has one or more first insertion portions that protrude in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. The outer circumferential surface of the sleeve has a non-circular portion of the first sleeve outer circumferential surface that has a shape different from a circular shape when viewed in the first direction. The inner circumferential surface of the second recess has one or more first insertion portions that are recessed in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. When the sleeve and the plate are attached to the case, the non-circular portion of the inner circumferential surface of the first plate contacts the non-circular portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first sleeve, and each of the one or more first insertion portions is inserted into the one or more first insertion portions. The shaft extending in the first direction is inserted into the sleeve. Vehicle bearing structure.
2. The inner circumferential surface of the plate further includes a second non-circular portion of the inner circumferential surface of the plate, which has a shape different from that of a circle when viewed in the first direction. Viewed in the first direction, the non-circular portion of the inner surface of the first plate, the center of the inner surface of the plate, and the non-circular portion of the inner surface of the second plate are arranged in this order in the sixth direction. The outer circumferential surface of the sleeve further includes a non-circular portion of the second sleeve outer circumferential surface, which has a shape different from that of a circle when viewed in the first direction. When the sleeve and the plate are attached to the case, the non-circular portion of the inner circumferential surface of the second plate contacts the non-circular portion of the outer circumferential surface of the second sleeve. The first straight line is defined as a straight line that, when viewed in the first direction, is perpendicular to the sixth direction and passes through the center of the inner circumferential surface of the plate. Viewed in the first direction, each of the one or more first insertion portions has a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line, or the one or more first insertion portions have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line. The vehicle bearing structure according to claim 1.
3. The outer circumferential surface of the plate further has one or more second insertion portions that protrude in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. The inner circumferential surface of the second recess further has one or more second insertion portions that are recessed in a direction away from the center of the plate when viewed in the first direction. When the sleeve and the plate are attached to the case, each of the one or more second insertion portions is inserted into the one or more second insertion portions. In the first direction, each of the one or more second insertion portions does not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line, or the one or more second insertion portions do not have a structure that is symmetrical with respect to the first line. The vehicle bearing structure according to claim 2.
4. The aforementioned vehicle bearing structure further comprises bearings, The bearing includes a support portion supported by the case, supports the shaft, and is located in the second direction relative to the plate. At least a portion of the plate overlaps with the support portion when viewed in the first direction. The vehicle bearing structure according to claim 1 or claim 2.