Tolerance ring assembly

Abstract

A tolerance ring assembly (1) has a tolerance ring (2) that is provided with protrusions (5) protruding radially. The tolerance ring assembly (1) has a sliding ring (6) that faces the tolerance ring (2) in the radial direction on the radially opposite side of the protrusions (5). The tolerance ring assembly (1) has an engagement part (9) that engages two components, which are the tolerance ring (2) and the sliding ring (6), with each other to restrict movement of the two components in the circumferential direction.

Description

Tolerance Ring Assembly

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a tolerance ring assembly that is disposed, for example, between a shaft member and an outer circumferential member that circumferentially surrounds the shaft member.

[0002] Tolerance rings that are press-fitted between a shaft member and an outer peripheral member that circumferentially surrounds the shaft member are known. The tolerance ring has a ring body formed from a strip member in a ring shape. The tolerance ring has multiple protrusions that protrude radially from the ring body. The tolerance ring is made of a springy material, such as a metal material such as carbon steel. When the tolerance ring is press-fitted between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member, the protrusions deform. This creates an interference fit between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member. This allows torque to be transmitted between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member via the tolerance ring. When the transmitted torque exceeds a predetermined threshold (slip torque), slip occurs in the tolerance ring. Therefore, the tolerance ring acts as a torque limiter.

[0003] For example, tolerance rings may be used in environments with high torque loads and high rotational speeds. Furthermore, when torque fluctuates significantly, the torque repeatedly rises and falls above and below the threshold value. This causes intermittent slippage in the tolerance ring. Even if the duration of a single slippage is short, say 1 to 2 seconds, the cumulative time becomes long, resulting in a long total sliding distance. To maintain torque limiter functionality even after a long cumulative slippage, there is a demand for tolerance rings with high wear resistance.

[0004] Japanese Patent No. 6561094 describes a torque limiting assembly in which a polymer layer is laminated on the inner circumferential side of the ring body of a tolerance ring. Further improvement in wear resistance is required for tolerance rings, as they are used under high loads and large torque fluctuations, or in environments where slippage occurs for a long period of time, such as high-speed rotation.

[0005] One way to increase the wear resistance of tolerance rings is to use nitriding or plating, for example. However, nitriding or plating hardens the treated surface. As a result, when the tolerance ring is press-fit for assembly, deformation of the protrusions can cause cracks or chips in the treated surface. Therefore, there is room for improvement in order to increase the wear resistance of tolerance rings.

[0006] Japanese Patent Publication No. 5177825 describes a tolerance ring having a ring body formed by wrapping a single long strip plate member approximately twice around the ring body. The outer periphery of the ring body is provided with protrusions that protrude radially outward. No protrusions are provided on the inner periphery of the ring body. It is conceivable to enhance wear resistance by nitriding or plating only the inner periphery of this ring body. However, when a single strip plate member has both a treated surface and an untreated surface that has not been nitrided or plated, there is a boundary between the treated surfaces. This boundary may result in cracks or chips. Therefore, it is difficult to maintain wear resistance by nitriding or plating only the inner periphery of the ring body.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a tolerance ring assembly as a torque limiter that is highly wear resistant.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a tolerance ring assembly includes a tolerance ring having a projection projecting radially, a sliding ring radially opposed to the tolerance ring on the radially opposite side of the projection, and an engagement portion that engages the two components, the tolerance ring and the sliding ring, to restrict circumferential movement of the two components.

[0009] Therefore, the sliding ring is provided as a separate part from the tolerance ring. This allows the sliding ring to be subjected to treatments to enhance its surface wear resistance, such as nitriding or plating. Therefore, when a tolerance ring with protrusions is press-fitted, cracks or chips can be prevented from occurring around the deforming protrusions. The sliding ring can maintain high wear resistance. The deformation of the protrusions prevents the tolerance ring from slipping against the mating member. Thus, a tolerance ring assembly with a highly wear-resistant sliding ring can function as a torque limiter by sliding the sliding ring against the mating member. Furthermore, the engaging portion can prevent relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring. This prevents the tolerance ring from sliding against the sliding ring with its hard treated surface and becoming worn. This prevents a decrease in slip torque when slip occurs as a torque limiter. This allows a highly wear-resistant tolerance ring assembly to function as a torque limiter with high slip torque.

[0010] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaging portion protrudes radially from one of the two components. The other of the two components is provided with an engaged portion into which the engaging portion is inserted. Therefore, the engaging portion and the engaged portion engage with each other in a concave-convex manner in the radial direction. This more reliably prevents the tolerance ring and the sliding ring from slipping relative to each other in the circumferential direction.

[0011] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body. The tolerance ring has a joint formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body. The engaging portion is inserted into the joint. Therefore, a tolerance ring with an existing structure can be used to suppress relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring. Therefore, a tolerance ring assembly with high wear resistance can be provided with a reduced number of newly designed parts.

[0012] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the tolerance ring has protrusions on both circumferential ends of the ring body. At least a portion of the engaging portion is located away from the protrusions in the axial direction. Therefore, the protrusions are deformed when the tolerance ring assembly is press-fitted. By locating at least a portion of the engaging portion away from the protrusions, deformation of the engaging portion during press-fitting can be suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring even after press-fitting.

[0013] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body. The tolerance ring has a gap formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body. The sliding ring has a cylindrical ring body. The sliding ring has a gap formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body. The two components are engaged by an engaging portion so that the gap of the tolerance ring and the gap of the sliding ring are adjacent in the radial direction. Therefore, when the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are assembled together, both gaps can be opened simultaneously. Therefore, the tolerance ring and the sliding ring can be press-fitted together when assembled together. This reduces the number of steps during press-fitting assembly and improves workability.

[0014] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaged portion is a hole or recess formed in the other of the two components. Therefore, the engaged portion can be provided with a simple structure. Therefore, the engaged portion can be provided at low manufacturing cost without requiring major design changes.

[0015] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaging portion is inserted into the engaged portion in the axial direction. Therefore, when the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are assembled in the axial direction, the engaging portion is inserted into the engaged portion. This allows the tolerance ring and the sliding ring to be assembled smoothly in the axial direction. For example, a tolerance ring assembly may be assembled by sliding the tolerance ring and the sliding ring axially relative to a shaft member, etc. Therefore, smooth axial assembly of the two components can improve the workability of assembling the tolerance ring assembly.

[0016] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the engaging portion is a separate part from the two components and is attached to one of the two components. Therefore, for example, after the tolerance ring and the sliding ring are assembled by sliding them axially relative to a shaft member or the like, the engaging portion, which is a separate part, can be attached to suppress relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring and the sliding ring. This makes it possible to assemble a tolerance ring assembly as a torque limiter with high wear resistance that can be used in a variety of work environments.

[0017] According to another feature of the present disclosure, the surface of the sliding ring is nitrided or plated. This increases the wear resistance of the sliding ring surface. The sliding ring, which has a highly wear-resistant treated surface, and the tolerance ring, which has protrusions that deform during press-fit assembly, are separate components. This prevents cracks and chips from occurring on the hard treated surface of the sliding ring during press-fit assembly. Therefore, the sliding ring maintains its high wear resistance even after press-fit assembly.

[0018] According to another feature of the present disclosure, a solid lubricant coating is provided to coat the surface of the sliding ring. This increases the lubricity of the sliding ring surface. This improves initial compatibility with the mating member and suppresses wear of the sliding ring surface from the early stages of sliding. This further increases the wear resistance of the sliding ring surface.

[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a tolerance ring assembly includes a tolerance ring having a protrusion protruding in a radial direction, a sliding ring radially opposed to the tolerance ring on a radially opposite side of the protrusion, and a surface of the sliding ring in the tolerance ring assembly is nitrided or plated.

[0020] This increases the wear resistance of the sliding ring surface. The sliding ring, which has a highly wear-resistant treated surface, and the tolerance ring, which has protrusions that deform during press-fit assembly, are made into separate components. This prevents cracks and chips from occurring on the hard treated surface of the sliding ring during press-fit assembly. The deformation of the protrusions prevents the tolerance ring from sliding against the mating member. Thus, while maintaining the high wear resistance of the sliding ring, the sliding ring can slide against the mating member, allowing the tolerance ring assembly to function as a torque limiter.

[0021] 1. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a first embodiment. 2. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 1. 3. A view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 1 as viewed from the axial direction. 4. A side view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 1. 5. A sectional view taken along line V-V in FIG. 4. 6. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a second embodiment. 7. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 6. 8. A view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 6 as viewed from the axial direction. 9. An axial sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. 8. 9. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a third embodiment. 10. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 10. 11. A view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 10 as viewed from the axial direction. 12. A side view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 10. 13. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a fourth embodiment. 14. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 14 as viewed from the axial direction. 14. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a fifth embodiment. 15. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 17. 16. A view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 17 as viewed from the axial direction. 20. A side view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 17. A sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI in FIG. 20. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a sixth embodiment. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 22. A side view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 22. A perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a seventh embodiment. An exploded perspective view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 25. A side view of the tolerance ring assembly of FIG. 25. A sectional view taken along line XXVIII-XXVIII in FIG. 27. An exploded perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to an eighth embodiment. An exploded perspective view of a tolerance ring assembly according to a ninth embodiment.

[0022] First Embodiment A first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. As shown in Figure 1, a tolerance ring assembly 1 has a ring-shaped tolerance ring 2 and a ring-shaped sliding ring 6. The tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 are provided as separate components. The tolerance ring 2 is disposed on the radially outer side, and the sliding ring 6 is disposed on the radially inner side.

[0023] The tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in FIG. 1 is used by being fitted between a shaft member and an outer peripheral member. The shaft member is a columnar or cylindrical metal member such as a rotor shaft. The outer peripheral member is, for example, cylindrical with a hole in the center, into which the shaft member is inserted. A cylindrical gap is formed radially between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member. The tolerance ring assembly 1 is press-fitted into the cylindrical gap to be fitted between the two members. This allows torque to be transmitted between the shaft member and the outer peripheral member.

[0024] The outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2 shown in FIG. 1 faces the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral member. The outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2 is pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral member by an interference fit. This generates friction between the outer peripheral surface 3a and the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral member, suppressing movement of the tolerance ring 2 relative to the outer peripheral member. The inner peripheral surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 faces the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member. When the torque of the shaft member exceeds a threshold value (slip torque), the inner peripheral surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 slides against the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member. This allows the tolerance ring assembly 1 to act as a torque limiter.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the tolerance ring 2 has a cylindrical ring body 3. The ring body 3 has an outer peripheral surface 3a and an inner peripheral surface 3b that are cylindrical and centered on the axial center C. The ring body 3 has a substantially constant thickness. The tolerance ring 2 has multiple protrusions 5 that protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 3a of the ring body 3. The ring body 3 is formed into a cylindrical shape by rolling a springy strip-shaped plate material. The tolerance ring 2 is formed from a metal material, such as iron or alloy steel such as high-carbon steel or stainless steel, or a non-ferrous metal such as copper or nickel, or a metal alloy thereof. In the present disclosure, the tolerance ring 2 is made of carbon steel, for example, S60CM (JIS G3311).

[0026] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the ring body 3 has a first end 3c at one circumferential end (the left end in the figures). The ring body 3 has a second end 3d at the other circumferential end (the right end in the figures). The first end 3c and the second end 3d are parallel to each other. A joint 4 is formed between the first end 3c and the second end 3d. The joint 4 is a slit-shaped hole that penetrates the ring body 3 in the radial and axial directions. The ring body 3 has a first edge 3e at one axial end (the upper end in the figures). The ring body 3 has a second edge 3f at the other axial end (the lower end in the figures). The first edge 3e and the second edge 3f are parallel to each other. In the following description, the circumferential ends of the components are referred to as "ends" and "end faces." The axial ends of the components are referred to as "edges" to distinguish them from "ends" and "end faces."

[0027] 1 to 4, the protrusion 5 has a pent roof (hip roof, hipped ridge) shape with approximately triangular slopes on both axial sides and approximately trapezoidal slopes on both circumferential sides. When viewed radially, the protrusion 5 has a rectangular shape that is long in the axial direction of the ring body 3. The back side of the protrusion 5 is concave radially outward on the inner circumferential surface 3b side of the ring body 3.

[0028] 1, 2, and 4, the plurality of protrusions 5 are arranged in two rows spaced apart in the axial direction. The first protrusion row 5b and the second protrusion row 5e are arranged parallel to each other. The first protrusion row 5b and the second protrusion row 5e each extend in the circumferential direction of the ring body 3. The first protrusion row 5b and the second protrusion row 5e have the same number of protrusions 5. The protrusions 5 constituting the first protrusion row 5b and the protrusions 5 constituting the second protrusion row 5e are arranged so that the positions of the peaks protruding radially outward are aligned in the axial direction.

[0029] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the multiple protrusions 5 include half-peak protrusions 5a arranged at the first end 3c and the second end 3d of the ring body 3. The apex of the half-peak protrusions 5a is arranged at the first end 3c or the second end 3d. A total of four half-peak protrusions 5a are provided at both circumferential ends of the first protrusion row 5b and the second protrusion row 5e. The two half-peak protrusions 5a of the first protrusion row 5b face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint 4. The two half-peak protrusions 5a of the second protrusion row 5e face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint 4. The half-peak protrusions 5a are shaped like a protrusion 5 split in half circumferentially with the apex of the other protrusion 5 as the boundary. The circumferential length of the half-peak protrusion 5a is approximately half that of the other protrusions 5. The half-peak protrusion 5a has approximately the same axial length as the other protrusions 5.

[0030] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4, the region between the first edge 3e of the ring body 3 and the first edge 5c of the first projection row 5b has a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. The axial distance between the first edge 3e and the first edge 5c of the first projection row 5b is shorter than the circumferential length of one projection 5. The region between the second edge 3f of the ring body 3 and the second edge 5g of the second projection row 5e has a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. The axial distance between the second edge 3f and the second edge 5g of the second projection row 5e is shorter than the circumferential length of one projection 5. An intermediate portion 3g between the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b and the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e has a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. The axial distance of the intermediate portion 3g is approximately the same as the circumferential length of one projection 5.

[0031] The tolerance ring 2 shown in Figure 2 is formed, for example, by the following procedure. First, multiple protrusions 5 are formed on a rectangular strip-shaped plate material. Next, the strip-shaped plate material is curled in the longitudinal direction to form a ring shape. After being formed into the product shape, the tolerance ring 2 is subjected to heat treatment such as austempering to remove residual stress. The tolerance ring 2 may also be subjected to surface treatment such as shot blasting, rust prevention treatment, etc.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the sliding ring 6 has a cylindrical ring body 7. The ring body 7 has an outer peripheral surface 7a and an inner peripheral surface 7b that are cylindrical and centered on the axial center C. The ring body 7 has a substantially constant thickness, substantially the same as that of the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2. The ring body 7 is formed into a cylindrical shape by rolling a springy strip-shaped plate material. The sliding ring 6 is formed from a metal material, such as iron or alloy steel, such as high-carbon steel or stainless steel, or a non-ferrous metal, such as copper or nickel, or a metal alloy thereof. In the present disclosure, the sliding ring 6 is made of, for example, stainless steel (SUS). Alternatively, the sliding ring 6 is made of carbon tool steel, such as SK85 (JIS G4401). Alternatively, the sliding ring 6 is made of the same carbon steel, such as S60CM, as the tolerance ring 2.

[0033] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the ring body 7 has a first end 7c at one circumferential end (the end on the right side as viewed from the rear of the figure). The ring body 7 has a second end 7d at the other circumferential end (the end on the left side as viewed from the rear of the figure). The first end 7c and the second end 7d are parallel to each other. A joint 8 is formed between the first end 7c and the second end 7d. The ring body 7 has a first edge 7e at one axial end (the upper end as viewed from the figure). The ring body 7 has a second edge 7f at the other axial end (the lower end as viewed from the figure). The first edge 7e and the second edge 7f are parallel to each other.

[0034] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the sliding ring 6 has an engagement portion 9 that protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 7a. The engagement portion 9 is provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the abutment portion 8. The engagement portion 9 is provided at the center of the ring body 7 in the axial direction. The engagement portion 9 is generally rectangular when viewed radially. The engagement portion 9 is provided in an arch shape that extends in the axial direction of the ring body 7. The engagement portion 9 is located on the first edge portion 7e side and has a first edge portion 9b that extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 7a. The engagement portion 9 is located on the second edge portion 7f side and has a second edge portion 9c that extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 7a. The engagement portion 9 is provided with approximately the same circumferential width as the abutment portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0035] 1 to 4, the engaging portion 9 has an apex 9a between a first edge 9b and a second edge 9c in the axial direction. The apex 9a extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 7a and generally parallel to the axial direction. Holes 9d and 9e are provided on both sides of the engaging portion 9 in the circumferential direction. The holes 9d and 9e are provided in a generally rectangular shape that penetrates the ring body 7 in the radial direction. The holes 9d and 9e overlap the engaging portion 9 in the axial direction and have generally the same axial length as the engaging portion 9.

[0036] The sliding ring 6 shown in FIG. 2 is formed, for example, by the following procedure. First, holes 9d and 9e are formed in a rectangular strip-shaped plate material. Next, the engagement portion 9 is formed. Next, the strip-shaped plate material is curled in the longitudinal direction to form a ring shape. After forming into the product shape, a heat treatment is performed to remove residual stress. For example, if the sliding ring 6 is made of stainless steel, a heat treatment such as low-temperature annealing is performed. For example, if the sliding ring 6 is made of carbon tool steel, a heat treatment such as low-temperature annealing or austempering is performed. For example, if the sliding ring 6 is made of carbon steel, a heat treatment such as austempering or low-temperature annealing is performed.

[0037] Next, the entire surface of the sliding ring 6 is subjected to nitriding or plating. For example, when the material of the sliding ring 6 is stainless steel or carbon tool steel, the sliding ring 6 is subjected to nitriding. Alternatively, the sliding ring 6 may be subjected to plating. For example, when the material of the sliding ring 6 is carbon steel, the sliding ring 6 is subjected to plating. By performing nitriding or plating, the entire surface of the sliding ring 6 becomes hard, and the wear resistance is improved.

[0038] Furthermore, a solid lubricant coating may be formed on the surface of the sliding ring 6. The solid lubricant coating includes a highly lubricating material such as molybdenum disulfide. The solid lubricant coating is formed as a thin film of approximately uniform thickness on the surface of the sliding ring 6, for example, by dip spinning or spray coating. For example, in the dip spinning method, the solid lubricant coating is formed by centrifugal force, so the thickness of the solid lubricant coating is thin, for example, less than 30 μm, less than 20 μm, or less than 10 μm. The thickness of the solid lubricant coating is, for example, 1 μm or more, 5 μm or more. The solid lubricant coating is fixed to the surface of the sliding ring 6 by thermal hardening, for example, by heating and baking. Forming a thin solid lubricant coating on the surface of the sliding ring 6 reduces friction between the inner circumferential surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 and the shaft member, improving initial break-in. This reduces wear on the inner circumferential surface 7b of the sliding ring 6 and improves wear resistance.

[0039] As shown in Figures 1, 3, 4, and 5, a sliding ring 6 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The tolerance ring 2 and sliding ring 6 are, for example, delivered separately and assembled to each other at the stage of assembly to a shaft member or the like. The engaging portion 9 of the sliding ring 6 protrudes radially outward and enters the abutment portion 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 9 can be inserted into the abutment 4 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the abutment 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 9.

[0040] As shown in Figures 1, 3, 4, and 5, the apex 9a of the engaging portion 9 protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 9a of the engaging portion 9 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict relative circumferential movement. For example, it may be approximately the same as or even equal to the thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction. The engaging portion 9 abuts circumferentially against the first end 3c and the second end 3d of the tolerance ring 2. The circumferential length of the engaging portion 9 and the circumferential spacing of the abutments 4 are approximately the same, and preferably the same length if possible. However, to prevent the abutments 4 from riding up on the engaging portion 9 when the tolerance ring assembly 1 is assembled to a mating member and to take into account variations between individual tolerance ring assemblies 1, the circumferential length of the engaging portion 9 and the circumferential spacing of the abutments 4 may each be set to approximately 1 mm. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the engaging portion 9 and the abutment portion 4 come into contact during the initial misalignment, thereby suppressing relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 thereafter. The engaging portion 9 engages with the abutment 4 in the radial direction, thereby suppressing relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6. The apex 9 a of the engaging portion 9 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly, deformation of the engaging portion 9 can be suppressed.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4, the top 9a of the engaging portion 9 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 9b of the engaging portion 9 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 9c of the engaging portion 9 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of the engaging portion 9 is located at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusions 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak protrusions 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0042] As described above, the tolerance ring assembly 1 has a tolerance ring 2 equipped with a projection 5 that protrudes in the radial direction, as shown in Figure 1. The tolerance ring assembly 1 has a sliding ring 6 that faces the tolerance ring 2 in the radial direction on the radially opposite side of the projection 5. The tolerance ring assembly 1 has an engagement portion 9 that engages the two parts, the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6, to restrict circumferential movement of the two parts.

[0043] Therefore, the sliding ring 6 is provided as a separate part from the tolerance ring 2. This allows the sliding ring 6 to be subjected to treatments to enhance the surface wear resistance, such as nitriding or plating. Therefore, when the tolerance ring 2 having the protrusions 5 is press-fitted, cracks and chips can be prevented from occurring on the surface around the protrusions 5. The sliding ring 6 can maintain high wear resistance. The deformation of the protrusions 5 prevents the tolerance ring 2 from slipping against the mating member. Thus, the tolerance ring assembly 1 having the highly wear-resistant sliding ring 6 can function as a torque limiter by sliding the sliding ring 6 against the mating member. Furthermore, the engaging portion 9 can prevent relative circumferential slip between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6. This prevents the tolerance ring 2 from sliding against the sliding ring 6, which has a hard treated surface, and becoming worn. This prevents a decrease in slip torque when slip occurs as a torque limiter. This allows the highly wear-resistant tolerance ring assembly 1 to function as a torque limiter with high slip torque.

[0044] 1 and 3 , the engaging portion 9 protrudes radially from the sliding ring 6, which is one of the two components. The tolerance ring 2, which is the other of the two components, is provided with abutments 4 (engaged portions) into which the engaging portion 9 is inserted. Therefore, the engaging portion 9 and the abutment 4 engage with each other in a concave-convex manner in the radial direction. This more reliably prevents the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 from sliding relative to each other in the circumferential direction.

[0045] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the tolerance ring 2 has a cylindrical ring body 3. The tolerance ring 2 has a joint 4 formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body 3. An engaging portion 9 is inserted into the joint 4. Therefore, a tolerance ring 2 with an existing structure can be used to suppress relative circumferential slippage between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6. This makes it possible to provide a tolerance ring assembly 1 with high wear resistance while reducing the number of newly designed parts.

[0046] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the tolerance ring 2 has protrusions 5 on both circumferential ends of the ring body 3. At least a portion of the engaging portion 9 is located away from the protrusions 5 in the axial direction. Therefore, the protrusions 5 are deformed when the tolerance ring assembly 1 is press-fitted. By locating at least a portion of the engaging portion 9 away from the protrusions 5, deformation of the engaging portion 9 during press-fitting can be suppressed. This makes it possible to suppress relative circumferential slippage between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 even after press-fitting.

[0047] As shown in Figure 2, the abutment 4 (engaged portion) is a slit-shaped hole formed in the tolerance ring 2, which is the other of the two components. Therefore, the abutment 4 can be provided with a simple structure. As a result, the abutment 4 can be provided as the engaged portion at low manufacturing cost without requiring major design changes.

[0048] 1 and 2 , the engaging portion 9 is inserted into the abutment 4 in the axial direction. Therefore, when assembling the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 in the axial direction, the engaging portion 9 is inserted into the abutment 4. This allows the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 to be smoothly assembled in the axial direction. For example, the tolerance ring assembly 1 may be assembled to a shaft member or the like by sliding the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 in the axial direction relative to the shaft member or the like. Therefore, smoother axial assembly of the two parts can improve the workability of assembling the tolerance ring assembly 1.

[0049] As shown in Figure 2, the surface of the sliding ring 6 is nitrided or plated. This increases the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring 6. The sliding ring 6, which has a highly wear-resistant treated surface, and the tolerance ring 2, which has protrusions 5 that deform during press-fit assembly, are made into separate components. This prevents cracks and chips from occurring in the hard treated surface of the sliding ring 6 during press-fit assembly. Therefore, the high wear resistance of the sliding ring 6 can be maintained even after press-fit assembly.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2, a solid lubricating coating is provided to cover the surface of the sliding ring 6. This increases the lubricity of the surface of the sliding ring 6. This improves the initial compatibility with the mating member such as the shaft member, and suppresses wear on the surface of the sliding ring 6 from the initial stage of sliding. This further increases the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring 6.

[0051] As shown in Figure 2, the tolerance ring assembly 1 has a tolerance ring 2 equipped with a protrusion 5 that protrudes in the radial direction. A sliding ring 6 is provided on the radially opposite side of the protrusion direction of the protrusion 5, so that the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 6 face each other in the radial direction. The surface of the sliding ring 6 is nitrided or plated.

[0052] This increases the wear resistance of the surface of the sliding ring 6. The sliding ring 6, which has a highly wear-resistant treated surface, and the tolerance ring 2, which has protrusions 5 that deform during press-fit assembly, are made into separate components. This prevents cracks and chips from occurring in the hard treated surface of the sliding ring 6 during press-fit assembly. The deformation of the protrusions 5 prevents the tolerance ring 2 from sliding against the mating member. In this way, the sliding ring 6 can be slid against the mating member while maintaining the high wear resistance of the sliding ring 6, allowing the tolerance ring assembly 1 to function as a torque limiter.

[0053] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 9. The tolerance ring assembly 10 has a tolerance ring 11 and a sliding ring 15 instead of the tolerance ring 2 and sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Figure 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 11 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 15 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 15 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0054] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the tolerance ring 11 and sliding ring 15 are provided as separate components. The sliding ring 15 is disposed radially outward, and the tolerance ring 11 is disposed radially inward. The tolerance ring assembly 10 is fitted between a shaft member and an outer peripheral member. The inner peripheral surface 12b of the tolerance ring 11 faces the outer peripheral surface of the shaft member. The outer peripheral surface 16a of the sliding ring 15 faces the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral member.

[0055] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the tolerance ring 11 has a cylindrical ring body 12. The ring body 12 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 12a and inner peripheral surface 12b and is provided with a substantially constant thickness. The ring body 12 has a first end 12c and a second end 12d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 13, which is a slit-shaped hole that penetrates the ring body 12 in the radial and axial directions, is formed between the first end 12c and the second end 12d. The ring body 12 has a first edge 12e and a second edge 12f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0056] As shown in Figures 6 to 9, the tolerance ring 11 has multiple protrusions 14 that protrude radially inward from the inner circumferential surface 12b. The protrusions 14 are provided in a shape similar to that of the protrusions 5 (see Figure 2), for example. The protrusions 14 are, for example, pent-roof shaped, and are rectangular in shape with their elongated length in the axial direction of the ring body 12 when viewed radially. The back side of each protrusion 14 is concave toward the radially inward direction on the outer circumferential surface 12a side of the ring body 12. The multiple protrusions 14 form two rows of protrusions spaced apart in the axial direction. The first row of protrusions 14b and the second row of protrusions 14e are arranged parallel to each other. The first row of protrusions 14b and the second row of protrusions 14e each extend circumferentially around the ring body 12. The first row of protrusions 14b and the second row of protrusions 14e have the same number of protrusions 14. The protrusions 14 constituting the first protrusion row 14b and the protrusions 14 constituting the second protrusion row 14e are arranged so that the positions of the peaks protruding radially inward are aligned in the axial direction.

[0057] As shown in Figures 6 to 9, the multiple protrusions 14 include half-ridge protrusions 14a arranged at the first end 12c and the second end 12d of the ring body 12. The half-ridge protrusions 14a are provided in a shape similar to the half-ridge protrusions 5a (see Figure 2). The apex of each half-ridge protrusion 14a is arranged at the first end 12c or the second end 12d. A total of four half-ridge protrusions 14a are provided at both circumferential ends of the first protrusion row 14b and the second protrusion row 14e. The two half-ridge protrusions 14a of the first protrusion row 14b face each other in the circumferential direction across the abutment 13. The two half-ridge protrusions 14a of the second protrusion row 14e face each other in the circumferential direction across the abutment 13.

[0058] 9, the region between the first edge 12e of the ring body 12 and the first edge 14c of the first projection row 14b is formed into a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. The region between the second edge 12f of the ring body 12 and the second edge 14g of the second projection row 14e is formed into a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. An intermediate portion 12g between the second edge 14d of the first projection row 14b and the first edge 14f of the second projection row 14e is formed into a cylindrical surface without any irregularities.

[0059] As shown in Figures 6 to 9, the sliding ring 15 is provided in a shape similar to that of the sliding ring 6 (see Figure 2). The sliding ring 15 has a cylindrical ring body 16. The ring body 16 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 16a and inner peripheral surface 16b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 12 of the tolerance ring 11. The ring body 16 has a first end 16c and a second end 16d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 17 is formed between the first end 16c and the second end 16d. The ring body 16 has a first edge 16e and a second edge 16f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0060] As shown in Figures 6 to 9, the sliding ring 15 has an engaging portion 18 that protrudes radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 16a. The engaging portion 18 is provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the abutment portion 17. The engaging portion 18 is provided at the center of the ring body 16 in the axial direction. The engaging portion 18 has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed radially. The engaging portion 18 is provided in an arch shape that extends in the axial direction of the ring body 16. The engaging portion 18 is located on the first edge portion 16e side and has a first edge portion 18b that extends radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 16a. The engaging portion 18 is located on the second edge portion 16f side and has a second edge portion 18c that extends radially inward from the outer peripheral surface 16a. The engaging portion 18 is provided with approximately the same circumferential width as the abutment portion 13 of the tolerance ring 11 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0061] 6, 7, and 9, the engaging portion 18 has an apex 18a between a first edge 18b and a second edge 18c in the axial direction. The apex 18a extends radially inward from the inner circumferential surface 16b and generally parallel to the axial direction. On both sides of the engaging portion 18 in the circumferential direction, substantially rectangular holes 18d and 18e are provided that penetrate the ring body 16 in the radial direction. The holes 18d and 18e overlap the engaging portion 18 in the axial direction and have substantially the same axial length as the engaging portion 18.

[0062] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the sliding ring 15 is assembled to the radially outer side of the tolerance ring 11. The engaging portion 18 protrudes radially inward and enters the abutment 13 of the tolerance ring 11. The engaging portion 18 can be inserted axially into the abutment 13. In this embodiment, the abutment 13 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 18. The apex 18a of the engaging portion 18 protrudes radially inward beyond the inner circumferential surface 12b of the tolerance ring 11. However, the apex 18a of the engaging portion 18 does not have to protrude inward as long as it can restrict relative movement in the circumferential direction; for example, it may be approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 12 in the radial direction.

[0063] As shown in Figures 6 and 9, the engaging portions 18 circumferentially abut against the first end 12c and the second end 12d of the tolerance ring 11. The circumferential length of the engaging portions 18 and the circumferential spacing of the abutments 13 are approximately the same, and preferably the same if possible. However, to prevent the abutments 13 from riding up onto the engaging portions 18 when the tolerance ring assembly 10 is assembled to a mating member and to take into account variations among tolerance ring assemblies 10, the circumferential length of the engaging portions 18 and the circumferential spacing of the abutments 13 also include cases where one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to approximately 1 mm. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the engaging portions 18 and the abutments 13 abut upon the initial misalignment, thereby suppressing subsequent relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 11 and the sliding ring 15. This suppresses relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 11 and the sliding ring 15.

[0064] 6, the top 18a of the engaging portion 18 is located radially outward from the top of the protrusion 14, and is located radially outward from at least the height of the protrusion 14 when it is at its lowest point due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 14 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of the engaging portion 18 can be suppressed.

[0065] As shown in Figure 9, the top 18a of the engaging portion 18 overlaps the middle portion 12g of the ring body 12 in the axial direction. The first edge 18b of the engaging portion 18 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 14d of the first protrusion row 14b in the axial direction. The second edge 18c of the engaging portion 18 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 14f of the second protrusion row 14e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of the engaging portion 18 is located at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusions 14a of the first protrusion row 14b and the half-peak protrusions 14a of the second protrusion row 14e in the axial direction.

[0066] Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 10 to 13. A tolerance ring assembly 20 has a sliding ring 21 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Figure 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 21 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. Surface treatment of the sliding ring 21 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0067] As shown in Figures 10 to 12, the sliding ring 21 is provided as a separate component that is assembled radially inward of the tolerance ring 2. The sliding ring 21 has a cylindrical ring body 22. The ring body 22 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 22a and inner peripheral surface 22b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2. The ring body 22 has a first end 22c and a second end 22d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 23 that is narrower in the circumferential direction than the joint 4 is formed between the first end 22c and the second end 22d. The ring body 22 has a first edge 22e and a second edge 22f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 10 to 13 , the sliding ring 21 has engagement portions 24 that protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 22a. The engagement portions 24 include a first engagement portion 24a provided adjacent to the first end portion 22c and a second engagement portion 24b provided adjacent to the second end portion 22d. The two engagement portions 24 are arranged side by side in the circumferential direction at the center of the ring body 22 in the axial direction. Each engagement portion 24 has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed radially. Each engagement portion 24 is provided in an arch shape extending in the axial direction of the ring body 22. Each engagement portion 24 has a first edge portion 24d located on the first edge portion 22e side and extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 22a. The engagement portion 24 has a second edge portion 24e located on the second edge portion 22f side and extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 22a. Each engaging portion 24 is provided with a circumferential width that is half or less of the gap 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0069] As shown in Figures 10, 11, and 13, each engagement portion 24 has an apex 24c between a first edge 24d and a second edge 24e in the axial direction. The apex 24c extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 22a and generally parallel to the axial direction. A substantially rectangular hole 24f is provided circumferentially adjacent to the first engagement portion 24a and opposite the first end 22c. A substantially rectangular hole 24g is provided circumferentially adjacent to the second engagement portion 24b and opposite the second end 22d. The holes 24f, 24g overlap with each engagement portion 24 in the axial direction and have generally the same axial length as each engagement portion 24.

[0070] As shown in Figures 10 to 12, the sliding ring 21 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The tolerance ring 2 and sliding ring 21 are delivered, for example, as an assembled tolerance ring assembly 20, and then assembled to a shaft member or the like. The engaging portions 24 protrude radially outward and enter the abutments 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portions 24 can be inserted axially into the abutments 4. In this embodiment, the abutments 4 are engaged portions that engage with the engaging portions 24. The apex 24c of each engaging portion 24 protrudes radially outward beyond the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 24c of the engaging portion 24 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict relative movement in the circumferential direction. For example, it may be approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction.

[0071] 10 and 13 , the gap 4 of the tolerance ring 2 and the gap 23 of the sliding ring 21 are adjacent in the radial direction. The first engagement portion 24a abuts against the first end 3c in the circumferential direction. The second engagement portion 24b abuts against the second end 3d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length from the point where the first engagement portion 24a abuts against the first end 3c to the point where the second engagement portion 24b abuts against the second end 3d (the circumferential length of the entire engagement portion 24) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the gap 4, and preferably the same length if possible. However, to prevent the abutment 4 from riding up onto the first engaging portion 24a or the second engaging portion 24b when the tolerance ring assembly 20 is assembled to the mating member and to take into consideration variations among tolerance ring assemblies 20, the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 24 and the circumferential spacing of the abutment 4 also include cases where one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm each. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the first engaging portion 24a or the second engaging portion 24b and the abutment 4 come into contact during the initial misalignment, and subsequent relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 can be suppressed. Therefore, relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 can be suppressed.

[0072] 10 and 12, the top 24c of the engaging portion 24 is located radially inward from the top of the protrusion 5, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the protrusion 5 at its lowest point due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fitting assembly, deformation of the engaging portion 24 can be suppressed.

[0073] As shown in Figure 13, the apex 24c of each engaging portion 24 overlaps the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 24d of each engaging portion 24 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 24e of each engaging portion 24 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of each engaging portion 24 is located at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusions 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak protrusions 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0074] As described above, the tolerance ring 2 has a cylindrical ring body 3, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 . The tolerance ring 2 has a gap 4 formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body 3. The sliding ring 21 has a cylindrical ring body 22. The sliding ring 21 has a gap 23 formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body 22. The two components are engaged by an engaging portion 24 so that the gap 4 of the tolerance ring 2 and the gap 23 of the sliding ring 21 are adjacent in the radial direction. Therefore, when the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 are assembled together, both gaps 4 and 23 can be opened simultaneously. This allows the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 21 to be press-fit together after assembly. This reduces the number of steps required for press-fit assembly and improves workability.

[0075] Fourth Embodiment Next, a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 14 to 16. A tolerance ring assembly 30 has a sliding ring 31 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Figure 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 31 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 31 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0076] As shown in Figures 14 to 16, the sliding ring 31 is provided as a separate component that is assembled radially inward of the tolerance ring 2. The sliding ring 31 has a cylindrical ring body 32. The ring body 32 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 32a and inner peripheral surface 32b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2. The ring body 32 has a first end 32c and a second end 32d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 33 is formed between the first end 32c and the second end 32d. The ring body 32 has a first edge 32e and a second edge 32f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0077] As shown in Figures 14 to 16, the sliding ring 31 has an engaging portion 34 that protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 32a. The engaging portion 34 is located adjacent to the first end 32c. The engaging portion 34 is located at the center of the ring body 32 in the axial direction. The engaging portion 34 is generally rectangular when viewed radially. The engaging portion 34 is formed in an arch shape that extends in the axial direction of the ring body 32. The engaging portion 34 has a first edge 34b located on the first edge 32e side and extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 32a. The engaging portion 34 has a second edge 34c located on the second edge 32f side and extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 32a. The engaging portion 34 is provided with a circumferential width that is generally the same as the gap 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0078] 14 and 15 , the engagement portion 34 has an apex 34a between a first edge 34b and a second edge 34c in the axial direction. The apex 34a extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 32a and generally parallel to the axial direction. A generally rectangular hole 34d that penetrates the ring body 32 in the radial direction is provided adjacent to the engagement portion 34 in the circumferential direction and on the opposite side of the first end 32c. The hole 34d overlaps with the engagement portion 34 in the axial direction and has generally the same axial length as the engagement portion 34.

[0079] As shown in Figures 14 to 16, the sliding ring 31 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 34 protrudes radially outward and enters the abutment 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 34 can be inserted axially into the abutment 4. In this embodiment, the abutment 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 34. The apex 34a of the engaging portion 34 protrudes radially outward beyond the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 34a of the engaging portion 34 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict relative movement in the circumferential direction; for example, it may be approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction.

[0080] As shown in Figures 14 to 16, the gaps 4 of the tolerance ring 2 and the gaps 33 of the sliding ring 31 are circumferentially offset, but are connected when the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 31 are expanded. The engaging portions 34 abut against the first end 3c and the second end 3d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length of the engaging portions 34 and the circumferential spacing of the gaps 4 are approximately the same, and preferably the same length if possible. However, to prevent the gaps 4 from riding up on the engaging portions 34 when the tolerance ring assembly 30 is assembled to a mating member and to take into account variations among tolerance ring assemblies 30, the circumferential length of the engaging portions 34 and the circumferential spacing of the gaps 4 may be set to approximately 1 mm on one side and the other side. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the engaging portion 34 and the abutment portion 4 come into contact with each other during the initial misalignment, and therefore, it is possible to suppress any subsequent relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 31. As a result, it is possible to suppress any relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 31.

[0081] 14 and 16, the top 34a of the engaging portion 34 is located radially inward from the top of the protrusion 5, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly, deformation of the engaging portion 34 can be suppressed.

[0082] As shown in Figure 14, the apex 34a of the engaging portion 34 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 34b of the engaging portion 34 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 34c of the engaging portion 34 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of the engaging portion 34 is located at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusions 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak protrusions 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0083] Fifth Embodiment Next, a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 21. A tolerance ring assembly 40 has a sliding ring 41 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Figure 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 41 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. Surface treatment of the sliding ring 41 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0084] As shown in Figures 17 to 19, the sliding ring 41 is provided as a separate component that is assembled radially inward of the tolerance ring 2. The sliding ring 41 has a cylindrical ring body 42. The ring body 42 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 42a and inner peripheral surface 42b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2. The ring body 42 has a first end 42c and a second end 42d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 43 is formed between the first end 42c and the second end 42d. The ring body 42 has a first edge 42e and a second edge 42f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0085] As shown in Figures 17 to 20, the sliding ring 41 has an engaging portion 44 that protrudes radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 42a. The engaging portion 44 is provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the joint portion 43. The engaging portion 44 is provided at the center of the ring body 42 in the axial direction. The engaging portion 44 includes a first engaging portion 44a and a second engaging portion 44b that are aligned in the circumferential direction. The first engaging portion 44a and the second engaging portion 44b protrude radially in directions that separate them from each other. Each engaging portion 44 has a first edge 44d located on the first edge 42e side. Each engaging portion 44 has a second edge 44e located on the second edge 42f side.

[0086] 17, 18, and 20, each engaging portion 44 has an apex 44c extending axially between a first edge 44d and a second edge 44e in the axial direction. The apex 44c of the first engaging portion 44a is provided at a position furthest from the second engaging portion 44b. The apex 44c of the second engaging portion 44b is provided at a position furthest from the first engaging portion 44a. The circumferential distance between the two apexes 44c is approximately the same as the circumferential width of the abutment 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0087] As shown in Figures 17 to 21, a sliding ring 41 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. Each engaging portion 44 protrudes radially outward and enters the abutment 4 of the tolerance ring 2. Each engaging portion 44 can be inserted axially into the abutment 4. In this embodiment, the abutment 4 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 44. The apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 protrudes radially outward beyond the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2. However, the apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict relative movement in the circumferential direction; for example, it may be approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction.

[0088] 20 , the first engaging portion 44a abuts against the first end 3c in the circumferential direction. The second engaging portion 44b abuts against the second end 3d in the circumferential direction. The circumferential length from the point where the first engaging portion 44a abuts against the first end 3c to the point where the second engaging portion 44b abuts against the second end 3d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 44) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the abutments 4, and preferably the same length if possible. However, to prevent the abutments 4 from riding up onto the first engaging portion 44a or the second engaging portion 44b when the tolerance ring assembly 40 is assembled to a mating member and to take into account variations among tolerance ring assemblies 40, the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 44 and the circumferential spacing of the abutments 4 also include cases where one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the first engagement portion 44 a or the second engagement portion 44 b comes into contact with the abutment portion 4 during the initial misalignment, and therefore, it is possible to suppress subsequent relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 41. Therefore, it is possible to suppress relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 41.

[0089] 17 and 19, the apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly, deformation of each engaging portion 44 can be suppressed.

[0090] 20 and 21 , the apex 44c of the engaging portion 44 overlaps with the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3 in the axial direction. The first edge 44d of the engaging portion 44 is located at approximately the same position as the second edge 5d of the first projection row 5b in the axial direction. The second edge 44e of the engaging portion 44 is located at approximately the same position as the first edge 5f of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction. Thus, at least a portion of each engaging portion 44 is located at a position that avoids the half-peak protrusions 5a of the first projection row 5b and the half-peak protrusions 5a of the second projection row 5e in the axial direction.

[0091] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 24 . The tolerance ring assembly 50 has a tolerance ring 51 and a sliding ring 55 instead of the tolerance ring 2 and sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in FIG. 1 . The tolerance ring 51 and sliding ring 55 are provided as separate components. The sliding ring 55 is disposed radially inward, and the tolerance ring 51 is disposed radially outward. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 51 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 55 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. The surface treatment of the sliding ring 55 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0092] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the tolerance ring 51 has a cylindrical ring body 52. ​​The ring body 52 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 52a and inner peripheral surface 52b and is provided with a substantially constant thickness. The ring body 52 has a first end 52c and a second end 52d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint portion 53, which is a slit-shaped hole that penetrates the ring body 52 in the radial and axial directions, is formed between the first end 52c and the second end 52d. The ring body 52 has a first edge portion 52e and a second edge portion 52f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0093] As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the tolerance ring 51 has multiple protrusions 54 that protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 52a. The protrusions 54 are provided in a shape similar to the protrusions 5 (see Figure 2). The protrusions 54 are pent-roof shaped, and when viewed radially, they have a rectangular shape that is long in the axial direction of the ring body 52. ​​The back side of the protrusions 54, on the inner peripheral surface 52b side, is concave radially outward. The multiple protrusions 54 are lined up at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction to form a single protrusion row.

[0094] As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the multiple protrusions 54 include half-peak protrusions 54a disposed at the first end 52c and the second end 52d of the ring body 52. ​​The half-peak protrusions 54a are formed in a shape similar to the half-peak protrusions 5a (see Figure 2). The apexes of the half-peak protrusions 54a are disposed at the first end 52c and the second end 52d, respectively, and face each other in the circumferential direction across the joint 53. The area between the first edge 52e of the ring body 52 and the first edges 54b of the multiple protrusions 54 is formed in a cylindrical surface without any irregularities. The area between the second edge 52f of the ring body 52 and the second edges 54c of the multiple protrusions 54 is formed in a cylindrical surface without any irregularities.

[0095] As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the sliding ring 55 has a cylindrical ring body 56. The ring body 56 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 56a and inner peripheral surface 56b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 52 of the tolerance ring 51. The ring body 56 has a first end 56c and a second end 56d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 57 is formed between the first end 56c and the second end 56d. The ring body 56 has a first edge 56e and a second edge 56f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0096] As shown in FIGS. 22 to 24 , the sliding ring 55 has engaging portions 58 that protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 56 a. The engaging portions 58 are provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the joint portion 57. The engaging portions 58 include a first engaging portion 58 a and a second engaging portion 58 b that are provided on the first edge portion 56 e side in the axial direction, and a third engaging portion 58 c and a fourth engaging portion 58 d that are provided on the second edge portion 56 f side in the axial direction, for a total of four engaging portions. The first engaging portion 58 a and the second engaging portion 58 b are aligned in the circumferential direction. The first engaging portion 58 a and the second engaging portion 58 b protrude radially in directions away from each other. The third engaging portion 58 c and the fourth engaging portion 58 d are aligned in the circumferential direction. The third engaging portion 58 c and the fourth engaging portion 58 d protrude radially in directions away from each other.

[0097] As shown in Figures 22 to 24, each engaging portion 58 has a first edge 58f located on the first edge 56e side. Each engaging portion 58 has a second edge 58g located on the second edge 56f side. Each engaging portion 58 has an apex 58e extending axially between the first edge 58f and the second edge 58g in the axial direction. The apex 58e of the first engaging portion 58a and the apex 58e of the second engaging portion 58b are located at positions furthest apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The apex 58e of the third engaging portion 58c and the apex 58e of the fourth engaging portion 58d are located at positions furthest apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The circumferential distance between the apex 58 e of the first engaging portion 58 a and the apex 58 e of the second engaging portion 58 b is approximately the same as the circumferential distance between the apex 58 e of the third engaging portion 58 c and the apex 58 e of the fourth engaging portion 58 d. This distance is approximately the same as the circumferential width of the abutment 53 of the tolerance ring 51 when press-fitted and assembled.

[0098] As shown in Figures 22 to 24, a sliding ring 55 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 51. Each engaging portion 58 protrudes radially outward and enters a gap 53 of the tolerance ring 51. Each engaging portion 58 can be inserted axially into the gap 53. In this embodiment, the gap 53 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 58. The apex 58e of each engaging portion 58 protrudes radially outward beyond the outer peripheral surface 52a of the tolerance ring 51. However, the apex 58e of each engaging portion 58 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict relative movement in the circumferential direction; for example, it may be approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 52 in the radial direction.

[0099] 22 and 24 , the first engaging portion 58a and the third engaging portion 58c circumferentially abut against the first end 52c. The second engaging portion 58b and the fourth engaging portion 58d circumferentially abut against the second end 52d. The circumferential length from the contact point of the first engaging portion 58a with the first end 52c to the contact point of the second engaging portion 58b with the second end 52d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 58) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the abutment portions 53, and preferably the same length if possible. The circumferential length from the contact point of the third engaging portion 58c with the first end 52c to the contact point of the fourth engaging portion 58d with the second end 52d (the circumferential length of the entire engaging portion 58) is approximately the same as the circumferential spacing of the abutment portions 53, and preferably the same length if possible. However, to prevent the abutments 53 from riding up onto the engaging portions 58 when the tolerance ring assembly 50 is assembled to the mating member and to take into consideration variations among tolerance ring assemblies 50, the circumferential length of the entire engaging portions 58 and the circumferential spacing of the abutments 53 also include cases where one circumferential gap and the other circumferential gap are set to about 1 mm each. Even if there is a circumferential gap, the abutments 53 will abut against one of the engaging portions 58 during the initial misalignment, and therefore, subsequent relative circumferential misalignment between the tolerance ring 51 and the sliding ring 55 can be suppressed. Therefore, relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 51 and the sliding ring 55 can be suppressed.

[0100] 22, the apex 58e of each engaging portion 58 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 54, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the protrusion 54 when it is at its lowest due to deformation caused by press-fitting. Therefore, even if the protrusion 54 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly, deformation of each engaging portion 58 can be suppressed.

[0101] 24 , approximately half of the apexes 58e of the first engaging portion 58a and the second engaging portion 58b in the axial direction are located closer to the first edge 52e of the ring main body 52 than the first edge 54b of the protrusion 54. Approximately half of the apexes 58e of the third engaging portion 58c and the fourth engaging portion 58d in the axial direction are located closer to the second edge 52f of the ring main body 52 than the second edge 54c of the protrusion 54. Thus, at least a portion of each engaging portion 58 is provided in a position that avoids the half-peak protrusion 54a in the axial direction.

[0102] Seventh Embodiment Next, a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 25 to 28. A tolerance ring assembly 60 has a tolerance ring 61 instead of the tolerance ring 2 of the tolerance ring assembly 40 shown in Figure 17. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 61 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first and fifth embodiments will be described in detail.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 26 , a tolerance ring 61 has through holes 62 and 63 formed in the tolerance ring 2 shown in FIG. 2 . The through holes 62 and 63 are provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the joint portion 4. The through hole 62 is provided in the middle portion 3g of the ring body 3. The through hole 62 does not overlap with the protrusion 5 in the axial direction. The through hole 62 is formed in a rectangular shape having a first end face 62a and a second end face 62b at both circumferential ends. The circumferential distance between the first end face 62a and the second end face 62b is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the circumferential distance between the apex 44c of the first engaging portion 44a and the apex 44c of the second engaging portion 44b. The axial length of the through hole 62 is approximately the same as or slightly longer than the axial length of the engaging portion 44.

[0104] 26 , the through hole 63 is provided in the axial direction between the first edge portion 3 e of the ring body 3 and the first edge portion 5 c of the first projection row 5 b. The through hole 63 has approximately the same circumferential width as the through hole 62 and is aligned in the axial direction with the through hole 62. The through hole 63 does not overlap with the projections 5 or the through hole 62 in the axial direction.

[0105] 25 to 28 , the sliding ring 41 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 61. Each engaging portion 44 protrudes radially outward and enters a through hole 62 in the tolerance ring 61. In this embodiment, the through hole 62 is an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 44. The apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 protrudes radially outward beyond the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 61. However, the apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 does not have to protrude outward as long as it can restrict relative movement in the circumferential direction; for example, it may be approximately the same as or within the thickness of the ring body 3 in the radial direction.

[0106] As shown in Figures 27 and 28, the first engaging portion 44a abuts against the first end surface 62a of the through hole 62 in the circumferential direction. The second engaging portion 44b abuts against the second end surface 62b of the through hole 62 in the circumferential direction. This prevents relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 61 and the sliding ring 41. The apex 44c of each engaging portion 44 is located radially inward from the apex of the protrusion 5 and at least radially inward from the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest point due to deformation caused by press-fitting. This prevents deformation of each engaging portion 44 even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly. Each engaging portion 44 is located within the through hole 62. Therefore, each engaging portion 44 is located in an axial position that avoids the half-ridge protrusions 5a of the first protrusion row 5b and the half-ridge protrusions 5a of the second protrusion row 5e.

[0107] Eighth Embodiment Next, an eighth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 29. A tolerance ring assembly 70 has a tolerance ring 71 and a sliding ring 73 instead of the tolerance ring 2 and sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Figure 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the tolerance ring 71 are the same as those of the tolerance ring 2. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 73 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. Surface treatment of the sliding ring 73 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 29 , the tolerance ring 71 is the tolerance ring 2 shown in FIG. 2 , with two through holes 72 formed. The through holes 72 are circular holes that penetrate the ring body 3 in the plate thickness direction. The two through holes 72 are provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the joint 4. The first through hole 72a is provided at the circumferential center of the first projection row 5b. The first through hole 72a is provided axially between the first edge portion 5c and the second edge portion 5d of the first projection row 5b. The second through hole 72b is provided circumferentially at the circumferential center of the second projection row 5e. The second through hole 72b is provided axially between the first edge portion 5f and the second edge portion 5g of the second projection row 5e. The first through hole 72a and the second through hole 72b are aligned in the axial direction. Note that the locations where the through holes 72 are provided are areas where no projections 5 are provided, and the circumferential spacing between adjacent projections 5 is wide.

[0109] As shown in Figure 29, the sliding ring 73 has a cylindrical ring body 74. The ring body 74 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 74a and inner peripheral surface 74b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2. The ring body 74 has a first end 74c and a second end 74d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 75 is formed between the first end 74c and the second end 74d. The ring body 74 has a first edge 74e and a second edge 74f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 29 , the sliding ring 73 has two through holes 76. The through holes 76 are circular holes that penetrate the ring body 74 in the plate thickness direction. The two through holes 76 are provided on opposite sides of the axial center C from the joint portion 75. The first through hole 76a is provided in an axial position that radially communicates with the first through hole 72a of the tolerance ring 71 when the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 are assembled. The first through hole 76a has approximately the same diameter as the first through hole 72a. The second through hole 76b is provided in an axial position that radially communicates with the second through hole 72b of the tolerance ring 71 when the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 are assembled. The second through hole 76b has approximately the same diameter as the second through hole 72b. The axial distance between the first through hole 76a and the second through hole 76b is approximately the same as the axial distance between the first through hole 72a and the second through hole 72b on the tolerance ring 71 side.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 29 , the tolerance ring assembly 70 has an engaging portion 77 that is a separate part from the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73. The engaging portion 77 is a cylindrical pin shape that is inserted into the through holes 72 and 76. The engaging portion 77 is made of, for example, the same material as the sliding ring 73. As with the sliding ring 73, the engaging portion 77 may be subjected to surface treatments such as heat treatment, nitriding treatment, plating treatment, or application of a solid lubricant coating. The engaging portion 77 has approximately the same diameter as the through holes 72 and 76. The engaging portion 77 includes a first engaging portion 77a that is inserted into the first through hole 72a and the first through hole 76a, and a second engaging portion 77b that is inserted into the second through hole 72b and the second through hole 76b. The length 77 c of each engagement portion 77 is approximately the same as the sum of the radial thickness of the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 71 and the radial thickness of the ring body 74 of the sliding ring 73 .

[0112] As shown in FIG. 29 , the sliding ring 73 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 71. Each engaging portion 77 is inserted into a through hole 72, 76 that is radially connected. In this embodiment, the through holes 72, 76 are engaged portions that engage with the engaging portion 77. Each engaging portion 77 enters both the through hole 72 and the through hole 76. This prevents relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73. The radially inner end of each engaging portion 77 is located at approximately the same radial position as the inner circumferential surface 74b of the sliding ring 73 or radially outward from the inner circumferential surface 74b. The radially outer end of each engaging portion 77 is located at approximately the same radial position as the outer circumferential surface 3a of the tolerance ring 71. This prevents the engaging portions 77 from wearing out due to contact with a shaft member or an outer circumferential member. The engaging portions 77 are attached to either or both of the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 to prevent them from falling off.

[0113] As described above, the engaging portion 77 is a separate part from the two parts, the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73, and is attached to one of the two parts, as shown in Figure 29. Therefore, for example, after the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73 are assembled by sliding them axially relative to a shaft member or the like, the separate engaging portion 77 can be attached to suppress relative circumferential movement of the tolerance ring 71 and the sliding ring 73. The tolerance ring assembly 70 can be assembled as a highly wear-resistant torque limiter in accordance with the assembly objects (shaft members and outer peripheral members) in a variety of working environments.

[0114] Ninth Embodiment A ninth embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to Figure 30. A tolerance ring assembly 80 has a sliding ring 81 instead of the sliding ring 6 of the tolerance ring assembly 1 shown in Figure 1. The material, forming process, surface treatment, etc. of the sliding ring 81 are the same as those of the sliding ring 6. Surface treatment of the sliding ring 81 includes heat treatment, nitriding treatment or plating treatment, application of a solid lubricant coating, etc. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0115] As shown in Figure 30, the sliding ring 81 has a cylindrical ring body 82. The ring body 82 has a cylindrical outer peripheral surface 82a and inner peripheral surface 82b, and is provided with approximately the same and substantially constant thickness as the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2. The ring body 82 has a first end 82c and a second end 82d that are parallel to each other at both ends in the circumferential direction. A joint 83 is formed between the first end 82c and the second end 82d. The ring body 82 has a first edge 82e and a second edge 82f that are parallel to each other at both ends in the axial direction.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 30 , a single key groove 84 is provided as a recess extending in the axial direction on the outer peripheral surface 82a of the sliding ring 81. The key groove 84 is provided on the opposite side of the axial center C from the joint 83. The key groove 84 is provided over the entire axial length of the ring body 82. The key groove 84 is rectangular when viewed radially. The key groove 84 is provided with approximately the same circumferential width as the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 when press-fitted and assembled. The key groove 84 has a first end face 84a and a second end face 84b that extend parallel to each other in the axial direction at both circumferential ends. The radial depth of the key groove 84 is, for example, less than half the radial thickness of the ring body 82.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 30 , the tolerance ring assembly 80 has an engaging portion 85 that is a separate part from both the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 81. The engaging portion 85 is provided as a rectangular key that is inserted into the key groove 84 and the abutment 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 85 is made of, for example, the same material as the sliding ring 81. Like the sliding ring 81, the engaging portion 85 may be subjected to surface treatments such as heat treatment, nitriding treatment, plating treatment, or application of a solid lubricant coating. The engaging portion 85 has approximately the same circumferential width and axial length as the key groove 84 and the abutment 4. The radial thickness 85a of the engaging portion 85 is approximately the same length as the sum of the radial thickness of the ring body 3 of the tolerance ring 2 and the radial depth of the key groove 84 of the sliding ring 81.

[0118] As shown in Figure 30, a sliding ring 81 is assembled to the radially inner side of the tolerance ring 2. The key grooves 84 are aligned radially and communicate with the abutment 4 of the tolerance ring 2. The engaging portion 85 is inserted into the abutment 4 and key groove 84, which are communicated radially. The engaging portion 85 can be inserted axially into the abutment 4 and key groove 84. In this embodiment, the abutment 4 and key groove 84 are engaged portions that engage with the engaging portion 85.

[0119] As shown in Figure 30, the engaging portion 85 enters both the abutment portion 4 and the key groove 84. This prevents relative circumferential movement between the tolerance ring 2 and the sliding ring 81. The radially outer end of the engaging portion 85 is at approximately the same radial position as the outer peripheral surface 3a of the tolerance ring 2, is located radially inward from the top of the protrusion 5, and is located radially inward from at least the height of the protrusion 5 when it is at its lowest point due to deformation caused by press-fitting. This prevents deformation of the engaging portion 85 even if the protrusion 5 is crushed and deformed during press-fit assembly. The engaging portion 85 is attached to the key groove 84 and held in place to prevent it from falling off.

[0120] As described above, the key groove 84 (engaged portion) is a recess formed in the sliding ring 81, which is the other of the two components. Therefore, the key groove 84 can be provided with a simple structure. Therefore, the key groove 84 can be provided at low manufacturing cost without requiring major design changes.

[0121] Various modifications can be made to the tolerance ring assemblies of the first to ninth embodiments described above. For example, a configuration has been exemplified in which an engaging portion is provided on the sliding ring side, and an abutment or the like on the tolerance ring side serves as the engaged portion. Alternatively, an engaging portion may be provided on the tolerance ring side, and an abutment or the like on the sliding ring side or a hole or recess provided in the sliding ring may serve as the engaged portion. In the second embodiment, a tolerance ring assembly 10 has been exemplified in which the tolerance ring 11 is located radially inward and the sliding ring 15 is located radially outward. For example, the structures of the third to ninth embodiments may be applied to a tolerance ring assembly in which the tolerance ring is located radially inward of the sliding ring.

[0122] The tolerance ring 2 has been exemplified as having two rows of projections aligned in the axial direction. The tolerance ring 51 has also been exemplified as having one row of projections, each row comprising a plurality of projections 54. Alternatively, the tolerance ring may have three or more rows of projections. The tolerance ring has been exemplified as having half-ridge projections at the first and second ends. Alternatively, the tolerance ring may have a structure in which no projections including half-ridge projections are provided at the first and second ends. Alternatively, the tolerance ring may have a structure in which projections including half-ridge projections are provided at only one of the first and second ends.

[0123] The sliding ring 6 is exemplified in which substantially the entire engaging portion 9 is provided at a position that avoids the protrusions 5 in the axial direction. The engaging portion 9 may be positioned so as not to overlap in the axial direction with the tops of the protrusions 5 that will be crushed during press-fit assembly. Therefore, for example, the engaging portion 9 may partially overlap in the axial direction with the second edge portion 5d of the first protrusion row 5b or the first edge portion 5f of the second protrusion row 5e.

[0124] The sliding ring 6 is exemplified as having one engaging portion 9 in the axial direction. Alternatively, for example, two or more engaging portions aligned in the axial direction may be provided on the sliding ring or tolerance ring. Even when multiple engaging portions are provided, it is preferable that at least a portion of each engaging portion be located in a position that avoids the protrusion 5 in the axial direction.

[0125] The tolerance ring assembly 1 is exemplified in which the sliding ring 6 is assembled with the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 at the 0° position and the engaging portion 9 also at the 0° position. The tolerance ring assembly 40 is exemplified in which the sliding ring 41 is assembled with the joint 4 of the tolerance ring 2 at the 0° position and the engaging portion 44 at a 180° position where they face each other with the axial center C in between. The positional relationship between the joint (engaged portion) and the engaging portion of the tolerance ring is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a positional relationship spaced apart by an angle of 90°, 120°, or the like in the circumferential direction around the axial center C. The positional relationship disclosed herein is more preferable because it improves symmetry about the axial center C.

[0126] Although the tolerance ring and sliding ring are exemplified as having joints that are normally open in the circumferential direction, either one or both of the tolerance ring and the sliding ring may have a structure in which the joints are normally closed in the circumferential direction.

[0127] The materials for the tolerance ring, sliding ring, and engaging portion are not limited to those exemplified above and may be changed as appropriate. The surface of the sliding ring may or may not be coated with a solid lubricating coating, but coating with a solid lubricating coating can further enhance lubricity.

[0128] In the illustrated example, the ring body of the tolerance ring and the ring body of the sliding ring have approximately the same thickness. Alternatively, for example, the ring body of one of the tolerance ring or the sliding ring may be thicker than the other. In the illustrated example, the ring body of the tolerance ring and the ring body of the sliding ring have approximately constant thickness. Alternatively, for example, the thickness of the ring body of the tolerance ring or the ring body of the sliding ring, or both, may vary in the circumferential direction or the axial direction.

Claims

1. A tolerance ring assembly comprising: a tolerance ring with a projection protruding radially; a sliding ring radially opposed to the tolerance ring on the radially opposite side of the projection; and an engagement portion that engages the two parts, the tolerance ring and the sliding ring, to restrict circumferential movement of the two parts.

2. A tolerance ring assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the engaging portion protrudes radially from one of the two components, and the other of the two components has an engaged portion into which the engaging portion is inserted.

3. A tolerance ring assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body and a joint portion formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body, and the engagement portion is inserted into the joint portion.

4. A tolerance ring assembly as described in claim 3, wherein the tolerance ring has the protrusions on both circumferential ends of the ring body, and at least a portion of the engagement portion is provided at a position that avoids the protrusions in the axial direction.

5. A tolerance ring assembly as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the tolerance ring has a cylindrical ring body and a joint formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body, and the sliding ring also has a cylindrical ring body and a joint formed between both circumferential ends of the ring body, and the two parts are engaged by the engaging portion so that the joint of the tolerance ring and the joint of the sliding ring are adjacent in the radial direction.

6. A tolerance ring assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the engaged portion is a hole or recess formed in the other of the two components.

7. A tolerance ring assembly as set forth in claim 2, wherein the engaging portion is inserted axially into the engaged portion.

8. A tolerance ring assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the engagement portion is a separate part from the two parts and is attached to at least one of the two parts.

9. A tolerance ring assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the surface of the sliding ring is nitrided or plated.

10. A tolerance ring assembly according to claim 9, further comprising a solid lubricant coating covering said surface of said sliding ring.

11. A tolerance ring assembly comprising: a tolerance ring having a projection protruding radially; and a sliding ring radially opposed to the tolerance ring on the radially opposite side of the projection, wherein the surface of the sliding ring is nitrided or plated.

12. A tolerance ring assembly according to claim 11, further comprising a solid lubricant coating covering said surface of said sliding ring.

Images