In-wheel motor support structure

Abstract

To provide a support structure of an in-wheel motor which can secure sufficient strength in a lean and efficient shape.SOLUTION: A support structure of an in-wheel motor supporting an in-wheel motor 1 through a suspension mechanism 3 to a vehicle body includes a support component 2 which is mounted on the suspension mechanism 3 to support the in-wheel motor 1. The support component 2 comprises: a base substance part 4 which forms a part of an outer shell 1a of the in-wheel motor 1; an upper attachment point 5 which is attached to an upper arm 3a of the suspension mechanism 3; a lower attachment point 6 which is attached to a lower arm 3b of the suspension mechanism 3; a first fulcrum 7 which is on a straight line connecting the upper attachment point 5 and the lower attachment point 6 and is formed at an upper part of the base substance part 4; and a plurality of stiffened members 10 which integrally connects at least the upper attachment point 5 with the first fulcrum 7 and the other part other than the first fulcrum 7 respectively.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an in-wheel motor for a vehicle, and more particularly to a support structure for mounting and supporting an in-wheel motor on a suspension of a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a vehicle steering wheel structure configured to directly steer wheels suspended by a suspension having upper arms and lower arms using a steering motor. The vehicle steering wheel structure described in Patent Document 1 includes a knuckle connected at one end to the wheel, a support member supporting the other end of the knuckle rotatably about a kingpin axis, and a steering motor connected to the knuckle to rotate the knuckle about the kingpin axis to steer the wheels. One end of the upper arm is rotatably supported by the vehicle body, and the other end rotatably supports the support member. One end of the lower arm is connected to the wheel, and the other end is rotatably supported by the vehicle body.

[0003] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes an in-wheel motor for a vehicle in which a motor and a reduction mechanism are disposed on the inner periphery of a wheel. The in-wheel motor described in Patent Document 2 includes a knuckle (support member) that rotatably supports the wheel. The knuckle is composed of a motor housing that encloses the motor and a gear housing that encloses the reduction mechanism. In other words, the knuckle is formed integrally with the motor housing and the gear housing. The in-wheel motor described in Patent Document 2 is provided with a reinforcing member in the motor housing or the gear housing to prevent deformation of the knuckle and ensure predetermined performance. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-101746 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-189062 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] As in the vehicle steering wheel structure described in Patent Document 1, the vehicle wheels are supported on the vehicle body via suspensions by support members called knuckles or steering knuckles. Because the knuckles, which serve as such support members, are subject to large loads from the wheels, conventional strength designs have sought to suppress stress concentration on the knuckles by ensuring a sufficient cross-sectional area. Meanwhile, the in-wheel motor, located on the inner periphery of the wheel, is attached to and supported by a specified member on the vehicle body along with the wheels. In the in-wheel motor described in Patent Document 2, the knuckle, which is integrally formed with the housing of the motor and reduction mechanism, serves as a support member and bears large loads from the wheels. Therefore, the support member (knuckle) of the in-wheel motor, like the knuckles of conventional wheels, is required to have high strength and a considerable cross-sectional area. However, the in-wheel motor is densely packed with components and parts related to the suspension mechanism and brake system. Therefore, the shape and arrangement of the support member that supports the in-wheel motor together with the wheels are subject to many constraints. Therefore, it is not easy to ensure the strength of the support member for the in-wheel motor while satisfying various constraints and achieving an efficient, lean shape.

[0006] The present invention has been devised with an eye to the technical challenges described above, and aims to provide a support structure for an in-wheel motor that has sufficient strength and enables the construction of a support member with an efficient, waste-free shape, even for in-wheel motors that have little space to install and are subject to many restrictions on shape and installation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a support structure for an in-wheel motor that supports an in-wheel motor, which is mounted on the inner periphery of a vehicle wheel, on a vehicle body together with the wheel via a predetermined suspension mechanism, comprising a support member that supports the in-wheel motor and attaches it to the suspension mechanism, the support member having a base portion that forms at least a part of an outer shell of the in-wheel motor, an upper attachment point that is formed at a position vertically above the base portion and attached to a predetermined upper member arranged at the top of the suspension mechanism, a lower attachment point that is formed at a position vertically below the base portion or at a lower portion of the base portion and attached to a predetermined lower member arranged at the bottom of the suspension mechanism, and a first fulcrum that is formed on a straight line connecting the upper attachment point and the lower attachment point and is formed at the top of the base portion, and comprising a plurality of stiffening members that integrally connect at least the upper attachment point with the first fulcrum and with another portion different from the first fulcrum, respectively.

[0008] In addition, the support member in this invention further has a second fulcrum formed at a location where, when the base portion deforms in a rotational direction around the straight line as the rotational center axis, the displacement of the base portion becomes relatively large, a predetermined distance away from the rotational center axis in the radial direction of the rotation, and this invention is characterized in that the stiffening members include a first stiffening member that integrally connects the upper mounting point and the first fulcrum, and a second stiffening member that integrally connects the upper mounting point and the second fulcrum.

[0009] Moreover, the wheel in this invention may include a steerable wheel operated by a predetermined steering mechanism, and the support member in this invention may support the in-wheel motor mounted on the steerable wheel and attach it to the suspension mechanism, and may further include: a tie-rod attachment point formed at a position spaced apart from the base section to either the left or right in the horizontal direction, and to which a tie-rod of the steering mechanism is attached; and a third fulcrum formed in the vicinity of the tie-rod attachment point on the base section, and at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the central axis of rotation in the radial direction of the rotation, where displacement of the base section becomes relatively large when the base section deforms in a rotational direction about the straight line as the central axis of rotation, and further includes a third stiffening member as the stiffening member that integrally connects the tie-rod attachment point and the third fulcrum.

[0010] The support member according to the present invention is characterized in that it further includes, as the stiffening member, a fourth stiffening member that integrally connects the upper attachment point and the tie rod attachment point.

[0011] Moreover, the wheel in this invention includes a steerable wheel operated by a predetermined steering mechanism, and the support member in this invention supports the in-wheel motor mounted on the steerable wheel and attaches it to the suspension mechanism, and further has: a tie-rod attachment point formed at a position spaced apart from the base section on either the left or right side in the horizontal direction, and to which a tie-rod of the steering mechanism is attached; and a third fulcrum formed in the vicinity of the tie-rod attachment point on the base section, and at a position where, when the base section deforms in a rotational direction about the straight line as the rotational axis, displacement of the base section becomes relatively large, a predetermined distance away from the second fulcrum in the radial direction of the rotation, and the support member further includes a third stiffening member connecting the tie-rod attachment point and the third fulcrum integrally, and a fourth stiffening member connecting the upper attachment point and the tie-rod attachment point integrally as the stiffening member.

[0012] The support member according to the present invention is characterized in that it further includes, as the stiffening member, a fifth stiffening member that integrally connects the tie rod attachment point and the first fulcrum.

[0013] The support member according to the present invention is characterized in that it further includes, as the stiffening member, a sixth stiffening member that integrally connects the first stiffening member and the tie rod attachment point.

[0014] The support member according to the present invention is characterized in that it further includes, as the stiffening member, a seventh stiffening member that integrally connects the first stiffening member and the second fulcrum.

[0015] Furthermore, the support member in this invention is characterized in that it further includes, as the stiffening member, a beam-shaped member that integrally connects any two of the stiffening members together, or that integrally connects any one of the stiffening members to any one of the fulcrums in the base portion.

[0016] The support member in this invention is characterized in that it further includes, as the stiffening member, a plate-like member that integrally connects at least any two of the stiffening members and the base portion in the shape of a face plate. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] In the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention, the in-wheel motor and wheel are attached to a suspension mechanism by a support member and are supported on the vehicle body via the suspension mechanism. The support member forms at least a part of the outer shell of the in-wheel motor (e.g., a motor case, cover, or housing). The support member is provided with upper and lower attachment points corresponding to attachment portions of the suspension mechanism. The upper attachment point is attached to an upper member of the suspension mechanism (e.g., an upper arm), and the lower attachment point is attached to a lower member of the suspension mechanism (e.g., a lower arm), thereby supporting the in-wheel motor and wheel on the vehicle body via the suspension mechanism. In this way, the support member in the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention functions as a housing, motor case, or cover for the in-wheel motor, and also functions to support the in-wheel motor and wheel, like a knuckle in a conventional wheel.

[0018] As described above, the support member, which functions as a wheel knuckle, is subjected to a large load from the wheel. Therefore, the support member must have high rigidity and strength. Meanwhile, the in-wheel motor must be mounted in a narrow space on the inner periphery of the wheel to avoid interference with other components and members, such as the suspension mechanism and brake system, or with bolts and tools during assembly. This places significant constraints on the mounting position, shape, and size of the in-wheel motor. It is not easy to create a support member with high rigidity and strength to withstand large loads while satisfying these constraints. In contrast, the support member in the support structure for an in-wheel motor of this invention is provided with multiple stiffening members at the upper mounting point, which is subject to particularly severe load conditions. The stiffening members are, for example, beam-shaped, rib-shaped, or faceplate-shaped members that connect and integrate the upper mounting point with the base of the support member, and are formed with a cross-sectional area that provides the desired rigidity and strength. Reinforcing the upper mounting point with such stiffening members efficiently improves the rigidity and strength of the support member.

[0019] Specifically, the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention includes stiffening members: a first stiffening member connecting the upper mounting point to a first fulcrum on the base of the support member; and a second stiffening member connecting the upper mounting point to a second fulcrum on the base of the support member. The first fulcrum is a portion that serves as a fulcrum when the support member is subjected to a load and deforms in a translational direction (horizontal direction) (translational deformation). The second fulcrum is a portion that serves as a fulcrum when the support member is subjected to a load and deforms in a rotational direction (rotational deformation). Therefore, the first stiffening member reinforces the upper mounting point and effectively suppresses translational deformation of the support member. Furthermore, the second stiffening member reinforces the upper mounting point and effectively suppresses rotational deformation of the support member.

[0020] Furthermore, the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention also applies to an in-wheel motor mounted on a steered wheel operated by a steering mechanism (steering device). In the case of an in-wheel motor for a steered wheel, the support member is provided with a tie-rod attachment point to which a tie-rod of the steering mechanism is attached. The support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention further includes stiffening members: a third stiffening member connecting the tie-rod attachment point to a third fulcrum on the base portion of the support member, and a fourth stiffening member connecting the upper attachment point to the tie-rod attachment point. The third fulcrum is located near the tie-rod attachment point and, like the second fulcrum, serves as a fulcrum when the support member deforms in the rotational direction (rotational deformation) under load. Therefore, the third stiffening member reinforces the tie-rod attachment point and effectively suppresses rotational deformation of the support member. Furthermore, the fourth stiffening member reinforces the upper attachment point and the tie-rod attachment point, effectively suppressing rotational deformation of the support member.

[0021] The support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention further includes a fifth stiffening member that connects the tie rod attachment point and the first fulcrum on the base portion of the support member, thereby reinforcing the tie rod attachment point and effectively suppressing translational deformation of the support member.

[0022] In addition, in the support structure for an in-wheel motor according to the present invention, the sixth stiffening member is provided as a stiffening member connecting the first stiffening member and the tie rod attachment point, thereby enhancing the reinforcing effect of the tie rod attachment point.

[0023] The support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention further includes a seventh stiffening member connecting the first stiffening member and the second fulcrum, which can enhance the effect of suppressing the translational and rotational deformations described above.

[0024] Additionally, the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention may include a stiffening member such as a beam-shaped stiffening member connecting any two stiffening members together, a beam-shaped stiffening member connecting any one of the stiffening members to any fulcrum of the base, or a plate-shaped stiffening member filling the space enclosed between any two stiffening members and the base. Such additional stiffening members can enhance the reinforcing effect of the stiffening members on each section and also enhance the effect of suppressing translational and rotational deformation of the support member.

[0025] By providing the various stiffening members as described above appropriately and efficiently, it is possible to appropriately suppress both translational and rotational deformation of the support member. Therefore, a support member with appropriate rigidity and strength can be configured with a minimum of configuration. In other words, the shape of the support member as a strength member can be optimized.

[0026] Therefore, the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention allows the support member to be configured with sufficient rigidity and strength, and with an efficient shape that is efficient and has little waste.As a result, an in-wheel motor, which has little space for installation and many restrictions on its shape and installation, can be appropriately attached to and supported by a suspension mechanism. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention, showing an image of the in-wheel motor to be the subject of the present invention being attached to an upper member (upper arm) and a lower member (lower arm) of a suspension mechanism using support members. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a support member in a support structure for an in-wheel motor according to the present invention (an example of a support member for an in-wheel motor mounted on a steered wheel, in which three stiffening members are provided between an upper mounting point and a base portion and between an upper mounting point and a tie-rod mounting point). [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a support member in the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention, illustrating a tie rod attachment point of the support member and a tie rod of a suspension mechanism attached to the tie rod attachment point. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for an in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example of a support member for an in-wheel motor to be mounted on a wheel other than a steered wheel, in which two stiffening members are provided between the upper mounting point and the base portion). [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which the stiffening member between the upper attachment point and the second fulcrum is omitted from the support member configured as shown in FIG. 2). [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which the stiffening member between the upper mounting point and the second fulcrum and the stiffening member between the upper mounting point and the tie rod mounting point are omitted from the support member of the configuration shown in FIG. 2). [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which a stiffening member is provided connecting the tie rod attachment point and the first fulcrum). [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure of the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which a stiffening member is provided between the upper mounting point and the first fulcrum, and two stiffening members are provided to connect the second fulcrum and the tie rod mounting point). [Figure 9]10A and 10B are diagrams showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which two stiffening members are provided to connect stiffening members together). [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which a stiffening member in the shape of a face plate is provided to fill the space surrounded by two stiffening members and the base portion). [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example in which the stiffening member between the upper mounting point and the tie rod mounting point is partially omitted from the support member of the configuration shown in FIG. 2). [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing another example of the configuration of the support member in the support structure for the in-wheel motor of the present invention (an example using a beam-shaped stiffening member having a curved or bent portion). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The following embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are merely examples of specific embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0029] An in-wheel motor, which is the subject of the support structure for an in-wheel motor according to an embodiment of the present invention, is mounted on a wheel of an electric vehicle, such as an electric car or a hybrid vehicle. Specifically, the in-wheel motor is supported on the body of the electric vehicle together with the wheel via a suspension system (suspension mechanism). The in-wheel motor according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a support member that supports the in-wheel motor and attaches it to the suspension mechanism. By attaching the support member fixed to the in-wheel motor to the suspension mechanism, the in-wheel motor is supported on the vehicle body via the suspension mechanism.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows an in-wheel motor 1, a support member 2 for the in-wheel motor 1, and part of a suspension mechanism 3 (upper arm 3a and lower arm 3b) as an example of a support structure for an in-wheel motor in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] The in-wheel motor 1 is mounted on the inner periphery of a wheel (not shown) of an electric vehicle (not shown). The in-wheel motor 1 has an outer shell 1a formed by components such as a motor housing, a motor case, and a cover. In FIG. 1, an image of the motor case 1b and cover 1c is shown as the outer shell 1a of the in-wheel motor 1.

[0032] The in-wheel motor 1 is configured, for example, by a permanent magnet synchronous motor or an induction motor. The in-wheel motor 1 at least functions as a prime mover that is driven by a supply of electric power to output torque. The in-wheel motor 1 may also function as a generator that generates electric power when driven by external torque. That is, the in-wheel motor 1 may be a so-called "motor-generator" that combines the functions of a prime mover and a generator. A battery (not shown) is connected to the in-wheel motor 1 via an inverter (not shown). Therefore, power stored in the battery is supplied to the in-wheel motor 1, causing the in-wheel motor 1 to function as a prime mover and output driving torque. The in-wheel motor 1 can also function as a generator using torque transmitted from the wheels (not shown), and the regenerative power generated at that time can be stored in the battery. Furthermore, the in-wheel motor 1 can be controlled for regeneration while the vehicle is running, allowing the wheels to be braked using the regenerative torque generated at that time.

[0033] The in-wheel motor 1 may also include a speed reduction mechanism (not shown) that amplifies the output torque of the in-wheel motor 1. That is, a speed reduction mechanism may be arranged inside the outer shell 1a of the in-wheel motor 1 together with a motor structure (not shown) of the in-wheel motor 1. The speed reduction mechanism is, for example, configured by a pair of speed reduction gears (not shown) provided between two parallel shafts (not shown). Alternatively, it is not limited to a pair of speed reduction gears, and may also be combined with a planetary gear mechanism or a speed reduction mechanism of another configuration. Alternatively, the in-wheel motor 1 may be configured so that a wheel is directly attached to the in-wheel motor 1 without using a speed reduction mechanism.

[0034] The in-wheel motor 1 is attached to a suspension mechanism 3 by a support member 2 (described later), and is supported on the body of the electric vehicle together with the wheels via the suspension mechanism 3.

[0035] The support member 2 is a main member constituting the support structure of the in-wheel motor in the embodiment of the present invention, and supports the in-wheel motor 1 and attaches the in-wheel motor 1 to a suspension mechanism 3 of the electric vehicle. The support member 2 also forms at least a part of the outer shell 1a of the in-wheel motor 1.

[0036] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the support member 2 is mainly composed of a base portion 4, an upper attachment point 5, a lower attachment point 6, a first fulcrum 7, a second fulcrum 8, a third fulcrum 9, and a stiffening member 10.

[0037] The base section 4 constitutes the main body of the support member 2 and forms at least a part of the outer shell 1a of the in-wheel motor 1. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the base section 4 is attached to the motor case 1b so as to be integrated with the motor case 1b and cover 1c as a motor housing 1d. That is, the support member 2, together with the motor case 1b and cover 1c, forms a part of the outer shell 1a of the in-wheel motor 1. An output shaft hole 4a is formed in the center of the base section 4, through which an output shaft (not shown) of the in-wheel motor 1 is taken out and through which a roller (not shown) supporting the output shaft is attached.

[0038] The upper attachment point 5 is formed at a position spaced above the base portion 4 in the vertical direction (the up-and-down direction in FIGS. 1 and 2). An upper arm 3a of the suspension mechanism 3, which will be described later, is attached to the upper attachment point 5. Although not shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the upper attachment point 5 may be integrally connected to the base portion 4 by a connecting member (not shown, a member separate from the stiffening member 10, which will be described later) for fixing the position of the upper attachment point 5 relative to the base portion 4. Alternatively, the position of the upper attachment point 5 relative to the base portion 4 may be fixed by the stiffening member 10, which will be described later.

[0039] The lower attachment point 6 is formed at a position vertically downwardly spaced from the base portion 4, or at the lower portion of the base portion 4. In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lower attachment point 6 is formed at the lower portion of the base portion 4. A lower arm 3b of the suspension mechanism 3, which will be described later, is attached to the lower attachment point 6.

[0040] 1 and 2 show images of an upper arm 3a and a lower arm 3b of a double-wishbone suspension mechanism 3 as the suspension mechanism 3. The upper arm 3a is a predetermined upper member arranged at the top of the suspension mechanism 3. The lower arm 3b is a predetermined lower member arranged at the bottom of the suspension mechanism 3. In the support structure for an in-wheel motor according to the embodiment of the present invention, the type of suspension mechanism 3 to which the in-wheel motor 1 and support member 2 are attached is not limited to the double-wishbone type as described above. For example, the suspension mechanism 3 may be of a type other than the double-wishbone type, such as a strut type or a multi-link type. Therefore, the upper attachment point 5 is attached to a predetermined upper member of the predetermined type of suspension mechanism 3. Furthermore, the lower attachment point 6 is attached to a predetermined lower member of the predetermined type of suspension mechanism 3.

[0041] The first fulcrum 7 is a part located on the line (rotation center axis CA) connecting the upper attachment point 5 and the lower attachment point 6, and at the top of the base part 4. The first fulcrum 7 is a part that serves as a fulcrum for translational deformation when the support member 2 deforms (translationally deforms) in the translational direction or the front-to-rear direction (left-to-right direction in FIG. 2) due to the load received from the wheel side, or can be considered as a fulcrum for translational deformation. Therefore, by increasing the rigidity and strength of this first fulcrum 7 and strengthening the restraining force against translational deformation, it is possible to suppress translational deformation of the support member 2.

[0042] The second fulcrum 8 is a part located a predetermined distance away from the rotation center axis CA in the radial direction of the rotation (for example, the left-right direction in FIG. 2) when the base part 4 deforms (rotationally deforms) in a rotational direction about the rotation center axis CA, which is the straight line connecting the upper attachment point 5 and the lower attachment point 6, and is a part where the displacement due to the rotational deformation of the base part 4 becomes relatively large. Therefore, by increasing the rigidity and strength of the second fulcrum 8 and strengthening the restraining force against rotational deformation, it is possible to suppress the rotational deformation of the support member 2.

[0043] The third fulcrum 9 is provided on the base portion 4 near a tie rod attachment point 11 (described later). Similar to the second fulcrum 8, the third fulcrum 9 is located a predetermined distance from the rotation center axis CA in the radial direction of the rotation (e.g., the left-right direction in FIG. 2 ) when the base portion 4 deforms (rotationally deforms) in a rotational direction about the rotation center axis CA, which is a straight line connecting the upper attachment point 5 and the lower attachment point 6. This third fulcrum 9 is a portion where the displacement due to the rotational deformation of the base portion 4 becomes relatively large. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the third fulcrum 9 is provided on the opposite side of the rotation center axis CA from the second fulcrum 8 (to the right of the rotation center axis CA), at a portion where the displacement due to the rotational deformation of the base portion 4 becomes relatively large. Therefore, by increasing the rigidity and strength of the third fulcrum 9 and strengthening the restraining force against rotational deformation, the rotational deformation of the support member 2 can also be suppressed.

[0044] The stiffening member 10 integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the first fulcrum 7. The stiffening member 10 also integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and at least one other portion other than the first fulcrum 7. In the example shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the stiffening member 10 integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 to the first fulcrum 7, the second fulcrum 8, and a tie rod attachment point 11 (described later).

[0045] Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 2, the support member 2 has, as the stiffening members 10, a first stiffening member 10a, a second stiffening member 10b, a third stiffening member 10c, and a fourth stiffening member 10d.

[0046] The first stiffening member 10a is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section and integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the first fulcrum 7 of the base portion 4. The shape of the first stiffening member 10a is not limited to the circular beam shape described above. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. It may also be a rib-shaped member (stiffening rib) provided on a connecting member (not shown) for fixing the position of the upper attachment point 5 relative to the base portion 4, as described above. Alternatively, it may be a thickened portion with an increased cross section of the connecting member described above. By connecting and integrating the upper attachment point 5 and the first fulcrum 7 of the base portion 4 with the first stiffening member 10a, the rigidity and strength of the upper attachment point 5 can be increased. Additionally, the rigidity and strength of the first fulcrum 7 can be increased, thereby suppressing translational deformation of the support member 2.

[0047] The second stiffening member 10b is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section and integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the second fulcrum 8 of the base portion 4. The shape of the second stiffening member 10b is not limited to the circular beam shape described above. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. By connecting and integrating the upper attachment point 5 and the second fulcrum 8 of the base portion 4 with the second stiffening member 10b, the rigidity and strength of the upper attachment point 5 can be increased. In addition, the restraining force against rotational deformation can be strengthened, thereby suppressing rotational deformation of the support member 2. Note that, although not shown, the upper attachment point 5 and the third fulcrum 9 may be integrally connected by a stiffening member 10 similar to the second stiffening member 10b described above. In this case, the rigidity and strength of the upper attachment point 5 can be similarly increased and rotational deformation of the support member 2 can be suppressed.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 3, the support structure for an in-wheel motor in an embodiment of the present invention can also be applied to an in-wheel motor 1 mounted on a steered wheel (not shown) operated by a steering mechanism (steering device) 12. In this case, a "tie rod" of the "steering mechanism" is attached to the support member 2, similar to a "steering knuckle" of a conventional, general steered wheel (i.e., one not equipped with an in-wheel motor 1). Specifically, as shown in Figs. 1, 2 and 3, the support member 2 is provided with a tie rod attachment point 11 to which a tie rod 12a of the steering mechanism 12 is attached.

[0049] The tie rod attachment point 11 is formed at a position spaced apart from the base body 4 to the left or right in the horizontal direction (left-right direction in FIG. 2). In the example shown in FIG. 2, the tie rod attachment point 11 is formed at a position spaced apart from the base body 4 to the right in the horizontal direction. A tie rod 12a of the steering mechanism 12 is attached to this tie rod attachment point 11. Although not shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the tie rod attachment point 11 may be integrally connected to the base body 4 by a connecting member (not shown, a member separate from the third stiffening member 10c described later) for fixing the position of the tie rod attachment point 11 relative to the base body 4. Alternatively, the position of the tie rod attachment point 11 relative to the base body 4 may be fixed by the third stiffening member 10c described later.

[0050] The support member 2 provided with the tie rod attachment points 11 as described above includes, as the stiffening members 10, a third stiffening member 10c and a fourth stiffening member 10d.

[0051] The third stiffening member 10c is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section and integrally connects the tie rod attachment point 11 and the third fulcrum 9 of the base portion 4. The shape of the third stiffening member 10c is not limited to the circular beam shape described above. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. It may also be a rib-shaped member (stiffening rib) provided on a connecting member (not shown) that fixes the position of the tie rod attachment point 11 relative to the base portion 4, as described above. Alternatively, it may be a thickened portion with an increased cross section of the connecting member described above. By connecting and integrating the tie rod attachment point 11 and the third fulcrum 9 of the base portion 4 with the third stiffening member 10c, the rigidity and strength of the tie rod attachment point 11 can be increased. Furthermore, the restraining force against rotational deformation can be strengthened, thereby suppressing rotational deformation of the support member 2.

[0052] The fourth stiffening member 10d is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the tie rod attachment point 11. The shape of the fourth stiffening member 10d is not limited to the above-described circular beam shape. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. By connecting and integrating the upper attachment point 5 and the tie rod attachment point 11 with the fourth stiffening member 10d, the rigidity and strength of both the upper attachment point 5 and the tie rod attachment point 11 can be increased. In addition, the restraining force against rotational deformation can be strengthened, and rotational deformation of the support member 2 can be suppressed.

[0053] The support structure for an in-wheel motor in an embodiment of the present invention can also be applied to an in-wheel motor 1 mounted on a wheel (not shown) other than a steered wheel. In that case, the support member 2 has a configuration in which the tie rod attachment point 11, the third stiffening member 10c, and the fourth stiffening member 10d are removed from the configuration for the in-wheel motor 1 for a steered wheel described above, as shown in Fig. 4, for example.

[0054] Figures 5 to 12 show other configuration examples of the support structure for an in-wheel motor according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the support member 2 shown and explained below in Figures 5 to 12, members or parts that have the same configuration and function as the support member 2 shown in Figures 1 to 4 above are assigned the same reference numerals as those used in Figures 1 to 4.

[0055] The support member 2 shown in FIG. 5 has a configuration in which the second stiffening member 10b has been removed from the support member 2 shown in FIG. 2 above. The support member 2 shown in FIG. 6 has a configuration in which the second stiffening member 10b and the fourth stiffening member 10d have been removed from the support member 2 shown in FIG. 2 above. As with the support members 2 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, if some stiffening members 10 can be omitted depending on, for example, the operating conditions of the in-wheel motor 1 or the magnitude of the load acting on the support member 2, the optional stiffening members 10 can be removed as appropriate. This allows the support member 2 to have appropriate rigidity and strength with a minimum configuration. In other words, the shape of the support member 2 as a strength member can be optimized.

[0056] The support member 2 shown in FIG. 7 has a configuration in which a fifth stiffening member 10e that connects the tie rod attachment point 11 and the first fulcrum 7 is added to the support member 2 configured as shown in FIG.

[0057] The fifth stiffening member 10e is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the first fulcrum 7 of the base portion 4 and the tie rod attachment point 11. The shape of the fifth stiffening member 10e is not limited to the above-described circular cross-sectional beam shape. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. By connecting and integrating the first fulcrum 7 and the tie rod attachment point 11 with the fifth stiffening member 10e, the rigidity and strength of the tie rod attachment point 11 can be further increased. In addition, the rigidity and strength of the first fulcrum 7 can be further increased, and translational deformation of the support member 2 can be suppressed.

[0058] The support member 2 shown in Figure 8 has a configuration in which a sixth stiffening member 10f connecting the tie rod mounting point 11 and the first stiffening member 10a, and a seventh stiffening member 10g connecting the second fulcrum 8 and the first stiffening member 10a are added to the support member 2 having the configuration shown in Figure 2 above.

[0059] The sixth stiffening member 10f is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the first stiffening member 10a and the tie rod attachment point 11. The shape of the sixth stiffening member 10f is not limited to the above-described circular cross-sectional beam shape. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. By connecting and integrating the first stiffening member 10a and the tie rod attachment point 11 with the sixth stiffening member 10f, the reinforcing effect of the tie rod attachment point 11 can be enhanced.

[0060] The seventh stiffening member 10g is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the first stiffening member 10a and the second fulcrum 8 of the base portion 4. The shape of the seventh stiffening member 10g is not limited to the circular cross-sectional beam shape described above. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape. By connecting and integrating the first stiffening member 10a and the second fulcrum 8 with the seventh stiffening member 10g, the reinforcing effect of the tie rod attachment point 11 can be enhanced. This can also enhance the effect of suppressing the translational deformation and rotational deformation described above.

[0061] 8 shows an example in which two stiffening members 10, the sixth stiffening member 10f and the seventh stiffening member 10g, are additionally provided, but a configuration in which only either the sixth stiffening member 10f or the seventh stiffening member 10g is provided may also be used. Appropriate stiffening members 10 can be selected and provided depending on the conditions of use of the in-wheel motor 1, the magnitude of the load acting on the support member 2, etc.

[0062] The support member 2 shown in Figure 9 has a configuration in which an eighth stiffening member 10h connecting the first stiffening member 10a and the second stiffening member 10b, and a ninth stiffening member 10i connecting the first stiffening member 10a and the fourth stiffening member 10d are added to the support member 2 having the configuration shown in Figure 2 above.

[0063] The eighth stiffening member 10h is formed, for example, by a beam-like member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the first stiffening member 10a and the second stiffening member 10b. The shape of the eighth stiffening member 10h is not limited to the above-described circular cross-sectional beam shape. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape.

[0064] The ninth stiffening member 10i is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the first stiffening member 10a and the fourth stiffening member 10d. The shape of the ninth stiffening member 10i is not limited to the above-described circular cross-sectional beam shape. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape.

[0065] 9 shows an example in which two stiffening members 10, the eighth stiffening member 10h and the ninth stiffening member 10i, are additionally provided, but a configuration in which only either the eighth stiffening member 10h or the ninth stiffening member 10i is provided may also be used. Appropriate stiffening members 10 can be selected and provided depending on the conditions of use of the in-wheel motor 1, the magnitude of the load acting on the support member 2, etc.

[0066] The support member 2 shown in Figure 10 has a configuration in which a tenth stiffening member 10j connecting the fourth stiffening member 10d and the base portion 4, an eleventh stiffening member 10k having a face plate shape, and a twelfth stiffening member 10l having a face plate shape are added to the support member 2 having the configuration shown in Figure 2 described above.

[0067] The tenth stiffening member 10j is formed, for example, by a beam-shaped member with a circular cross section, and integrally connects the fourth stiffening member 10d and the first fulcrum 7 of the base portion 4. The shape of the eighth stiffening member 10h is not limited to the above-mentioned beam shape with a circular cross section. For example, it may be a beam shape with a rectangular cross section or a girder shape.

[0068] The eleventh stiffening member 10k is formed, for example, by a plate-like member having a face plate shape, and is integrally connected to the first stiffening member 10a and the second stiffening member 10b by filling the space enclosed between the base portion 4 and the base portion 4. The first stiffening member 10a and the second stiffening member 10b may each have a rib-like shape protruding from the face plate-shaped eleventh stiffening member 10k.

[0069] The twelfth stiffening member 10l is formed, for example, by a plate-like member having a face plate shape, and integrally connects the third stiffening member 10c, the fourth stiffening member 10d, and the tenth stiffening member 10j to the base portion 4 by filling the space enclosed between them. With respect to the face plate-shaped twelfth stiffening member 10l, the third stiffening member 10c, the fourth stiffening member 10d, and the tenth stiffening member 10j may each have a rib-like shape protruding from the eleventh stiffening member 10k.

[0070] Although not shown in Fig. 10 , plate-shaped stiffening members 10 may be provided to fill the spaces enclosed between the first stiffening member 10a, the fourth stiffening member 10d, and the tenth stiffening member 10j and the base portion 4, and to integrally connect them. Appropriate stiffening members 10 may be selected and provided as appropriate depending on the conditions of use of the in-wheel motor 1, the magnitude of the load acting on the support member 2, and other factors. The various additional stiffening members 10 as described above can enhance the reinforcing effect of the stiffening members 10 on each portion and can also enhance the effect of suppressing translational and rotational deformation of the support member 2.

[0071] The support member 2 shown in Fig. 11 has a configuration in which the shape of the fourth stiffening member 10d is changed from that of the support member 2 shown in Fig. 2. The support member 2 shown in Fig. 11 is provided with a stiffening member 10m that is formed, for example, by a beam-like member with a circular cross section and a curved portion, and that integrally connects the first stiffening member 10a and the tie rod attachment point 11.

[0072] The support member 2 shown in FIG. 12 has a configuration in which the shapes of the first stiffening member 10a, the second stiffening member 10b, and the fourth stiffening member 10d are modified from those of the support member 2 shown in FIG. 2 above. The support member 2 shown in FIG. 12 includes a stiffening member 10n, which is formed, for example, by a beam-like member with a circular cross section and a curved portion, and integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the first fulcrum 7 of the base portion 4. Also included is a stiffening member 10o, which is formed, for example, by a beam-like member with a circular cross section and a curved portion, and integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the second fulcrum 8 of the base portion 4. Also included is a stiffening member 10p, which is formed, for example, by a beam-like member with a circular cross section and a curved portion, and integrally connects the upper attachment point 5 and the tie rod attachment point 11. Note that stiffening members 10o and 10p may each be a straight beam-like member connected to the curved portion of stiffening member 10n.

[0073] By appropriately and efficiently providing stiffening members 10 of various shapes as described above, it is possible to appropriately suppress both translational deformation and rotational deformation of the support member 2. Therefore, a support member with appropriate rigidity and strength can be configured with a minimum configuration. In other words, the shape of the support member as a strength member can be optimized.

[0074] Therefore, according to the support structure for an in-wheel motor in the embodiment of the present invention, the support member 2 can be configured with sufficient rigidity and strength, and with an efficient shape that is efficient and has no waste (or little waste).The in-wheel motor 1, which has little space for installation and many restrictions on its shape and installation, can be appropriately attached to and supported by the suspension mechanism 3. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 1 In-wheel motor 1a (In-wheel motor) outer shell 1b Motor case (for in-wheel motor) 1c (In-wheel motor) cover 1d Motor housing (for in-wheel motors) 2 Support member 3 Suspension mechanism 3a (Suspension mechanism) Upper arm (upper member) 3b Lower arm (lower member of suspension mechanism) 4. Base part (of support member) 4a (Base) Output shaft hole 5 Upper attachment point (of support member) 6 Lower attachment point (of support member) 7. First support point (of a supporting member) 8 Secondary support point (of a supporting member) 9 Third support point (of a support member) 10 (supporting member) stiffening member 10a (of the support member) first stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10b (of the support member) second stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10c (support member) third stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10d (Support member) fourth stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10e Fifth stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) (of the supporting member) 10f (support member) sixth stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10g (support member) 7th stiffener (beam-shaped stiffener) 10h (supporting member) No. 8 stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10i 9th stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) (of supporting member) 10j (support member) 10th stiffening member (beam-shaped stiffening member) 10k (support member) 11th stiffening member (face plate-shaped stiffening member) 10l. 12th stiffening member (of the support member) (face plate-shaped stiffening member) 10m stiffening member (with curved part of supporting member) 10n stiffening member (with curved portion of supporting member) 10o stiffening member (having a curved portion of the support member) 10p Stiffening member (having a curved portion of the support member) 11 Tie rod attachment point (of support member) 12 Steering mechanism 12a (Steering mechanism) tie rod CA Rotational axis

Claims

1. 1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor that supports an in-wheel motor mounted on an inner circumferential portion of a vehicle wheel on a vehicle body together with the wheel via a predetermined suspension mechanism, comprising: a support member that supports the in-wheel motor and attaches it to the suspension mechanism, The support member is a base portion forming at least a part of an outer shell of the in-wheel motor; an upper attachment point formed at a position spaced apart vertically above the base portion and attached to a predetermined upper member disposed at an upper portion of the suspension mechanism; a lower attachment point formed at a position vertically downwardly spaced from the base portion or at a lower portion of the base portion, and attached to a predetermined lower member disposed at a lower portion of the suspension mechanism; a first support point formed on a line connecting the upper attachment point and the lower attachment point and on an upper part of the base portion; It has The vehicle is provided with a plurality of stiffening members that integrally connect at least the upper attachment point, the first fulcrum, and another portion different from the first fulcrum, respectively.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

2. 2. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 1, The support member is a second fulcrum formed at a location where the displacement of the base portion becomes relatively large when the base portion deforms in a rotation direction around the straight line as a rotation center axis and is spaced a predetermined distance from the rotation center axis in a radial direction of the rotation, The stiffening member may include: a first stiffening member integrally connecting the upper attachment point and the first fulcrum; a second stiffening member integrally connecting the upper attachment point and the second fulcrum; Equipped with 1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

3. 2. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 1, The wheels include steered wheels operated by a predetermined steering mechanism, The support member is the in-wheel motor mounted on the steered wheel is supported and attached to the suspension mechanism; a tie rod attachment point formed at a position spaced apart from the base portion on either the left or right side in the horizontal direction, to which a tie rod of the steering mechanism is attached; a third fulcrum formed in a position in the vicinity of the tie rod attachment point of the base portion, and at a position away from the rotational center axis in a radial direction of the rotation by a predetermined distance, where the displacement of the base portion becomes relatively large when the base portion deforms in a rotational direction about the straight line as a rotational center axis; and The stiffening member may include: The vehicle further includes a third stiffening member that integrally connects the tie rod attachment point and the third fulcrum.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

4. 4. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 3, The support member is The stiffening member may include: and a fourth stiffening member connecting the upper attachment point and the tie rod attachment point together.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

5. 3. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 2, The wheels include steered wheels operated by a predetermined steering mechanism, The support member is the in-wheel motor mounted on the steered wheel is supported and attached to the suspension mechanism; a tie rod attachment point formed at a position spaced apart from the base portion on either the left or right side in the horizontal direction, to which a tie rod of the steering mechanism is attached; a third fulcrum formed in a position in the vicinity of the tie rod attachment point of the base portion and at a location where, when the base portion deforms in a rotational direction about the straight line as a rotational center axis, the displacement of the base portion becomes relatively large, the third fulcrum being located a predetermined distance away from the rotational center axis on the opposite side of the second fulcrum in the radial direction of the rotation; and The stiffening member may include: a third stiffening member that integrally connects the tie rod attachment point and the third fulcrum; a fourth stiffening member connecting the upper attachment point and the tie rod attachment point together; It also has 1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

6. 6. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 3, The support member is The stiffening member may include: The tie rod attachment point and the first support point are connected together by a fifth stiffening member.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

7. 6. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 5, The support member is The stiffening member may include: and a sixth stiffener member connecting the first stiffener member and the tie rod attachment point together.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

8. 3. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 2, The support member is The stiffening member may include: The device further includes a seventh stiffening member that integrally connects the first stiffening member and the second fulcrum.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

9. 6. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 1, The support member is The stiffening member may include: The device further includes a beam-shaped member that integrally connects any two of the stiffening members together, or that integrally connects any one of the stiffening members and any one of the fulcrums on the base portion.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

10. 6. The support structure for an in-wheel motor according to claim 1, The support member is The stiffening member may include: The stiffening member further includes a plate-like member that integrally connects at least any two of the stiffening members and the base portion in a face plate shape.

1. A support structure for an in-wheel motor.

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