Damper device

Abstract

A damper device (1) comprises: a first rotating body (100) including first and second plates (100A, 100B); a second rotating body (200); and a control plate including a first engaging part (302) that extends in a radial direction from a base part (301), and a second engaging part (303) that extends and protrudes in an axial direction from the base part, and that is provided with an end part (303F) which abuts on the second plate or a rotating member (500') that rotates integrally with the second plate. In a state in which the second rotating body rotates in a first rotating direction (R) with respect to the first rotating body, an elastic mechanism part (400) is contracted between the second rotating body and the first engaging part, and in a state in which the second rotating body rotates in a second rotating direction (L) with respect to the first rotating body, the second engaging part rotates integrally with the second rotating body with respect to the first rotating body, thereby causing the end part (303F) to slide on the second plate or the rotating member (500').

Description

Damper Device

[0001] The technology disclosed in this application relates to a damper device.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In a vehicle or the like, a damper device is provided between a driving source such as an engine or a motor and a transmission to absorb vibrations of torque transmitted from the driving source to the transmission.

[0003] Conventional damper devices absorb and attenuate torque fluctuations by elastically deforming a coil spring or the like disposed between a disc plate serving as an input member and a hub serving as an output member that are rotatable relative to each other. In addition to elastically deforming the coil spring or the like, such damper devices also absorb torque fluctuations by generating a sliding torque (hysteresis torque) based on the relative rotation between the disc plate and the hub.

[0004] As specific examples of the damper device according to the above-mentioned prior art, the damper devices disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2023-000515) and Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent No. 6471486) are known.

[0005] The damper device disclosed in Patent Document 1 generates positive and negative torques using a load generated by a single disc spring (604). The positive torque is generated between the hub (200) and the thrust member (500) and between the hub (200) and the second sliding portion (700). The negative torque is generated between the hub (200) and the thrust member (500) and between the control plate (300) and the first sliding portion (600). The positive and negative torques have different characteristics due to the difference in the effective radius (distance from the center of rotation) and friction coefficient of the portion where sliding occurs. The entire content of Patent Document 1 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] The damper device disclosed in Patent Document 1 can reduce the number of components, but it also employs a structure that obtains hysteresis characteristics for positive torque and negative torque by utilizing the difference in the acting radius of the area where sliding occurs, so there is room for improvement in terms of further improving the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque.

[0007] On the other hand, the damper device disclosed in Patent Document 2 uses the load generated by the disc spring (57) to generate a positive torque, and uses the load generated by the disc spring (58) to generate a negative torque. The positive torque is generated between the hub (21) and the sliding member (7) and between the hub (21) and the sliding member (6). The negative torque is generated between the control plate (31) and the sliding member (8) and between the control plate (32) and the sliding member (9). The entire content of Patent Document 2 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0008] In the damper device disclosed in Patent Document 2, by adopting a structure in which positive torque and negative torque are generated using independent configurations, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque, but there is also room for improvement in reducing the number of required parts.

[0009] JP 2023-000515 A Patent No. 6471486 A

[0010] In the development of next-generation vehicles, etc., miniaturization and cost reduction of damper devices are required to improve competitiveness. Furthermore, the values ​​required for positive torque and negative torque vary depending on the target vehicle, etc. Therefore, the technology disclosed in the present application provides a damper device that at least partially increases the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque while at least partially suppressing the impact on miniaturization and / or cost reduction.

[0011] A damper device according to one aspect of the present invention is described as "a second plate provided opposite to each other, including a first rotating body that receives power from outside the damper device and rotates around a rotation axis, a second rotating body that rotates around the rotation axis and outputs power to the outside of the damper device, an elastic mechanism portion that is disposed in the circumferential direction of the damper device between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, an annular base portion, a first engaging portion that extends from the base portion in the radial direction of the damper device, and an end portion that protrudes from the base portion in the axial direction of the damper device and abuts against the second plate or a rotating member that rotates integrally with the second plate." and a control plate including an engaging portion, wherein, when the second rotating body rotates in a first rotational direction relative to the first rotating body, the second rotating body and the elastic mechanism portion come into contact with each other, and the first engaging portion and the elastic mechanism portion come into contact to contract the elastic mechanism portion, and when the second rotating body rotates in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction relative to the first rotating body, the second engaging portion comes into contact with the second rotating body and rotates integrally with the second rotating body, thereby rotating relatively to the first rotating body and causing the end portion to slide relative to the second plate or the rotating member.

[0012] The technology disclosed in the present application makes it possible to provide a damper device that at least partially increases the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque while at least partially minimizing the impact on miniaturization and / or cost reduction.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a top view schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a damper device 1 according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a top view schematically illustrating a configuration of the damper device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 , with some components omitted. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the configuration of the damper device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 , as viewed from line X-X. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the damper device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 , exploded into its respective components. FIG. 5A is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the first rotating body (disk plate 100) and the second rotating body (hub 200) are not rotating relative to each other in the damper device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 . FIG. 5B is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) is rotating relative to the first rotating body (disk plate 100) at a torsion angle θ1° on the positive side in the damper device 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 . 5C is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) rotates relative to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) at a torsion angle θ2° on the positive side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5D is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) rotates relative to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) at a torsion angle θ3° on the negative side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5E is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) rotates relative to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) at a torsion angle θ4° on the negative side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5F is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the relative rotation of the second rotating body (hub 200) with respect to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) is being canceled from the state shown in FIG. 5E in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a characteristic diagram schematically showing the torsional characteristics of the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a damper device 1′ according to a modified example. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a damper device 1″ according to a modified example.

[0014] Various embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that common components in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals. It should also be noted that components shown in one drawing may be omitted in another drawing for the sake of clarity. It should also be noted that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0015] 1. Configuration of the Damper Device The overall configuration of a damper device according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a top view that schematically shows an example of the configuration of a damper device 1 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a top view that schematically shows the configuration of the damper device 1 shown in Figure 1, with some of the components omitted. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows the configuration of the damper device 1 shown in Figure 1, as viewed from line X-X. Figure 4 is a perspective view that shows the configuration of the damper device 1 shown in Figure 1 exploded into its individual components.

[0016] The damper device 1 according to one embodiment is a device that is provided between a drive source (not shown), such as an engine or a motor, and a transmission, etc., and transmits (outputs) power from the drive source via a flywheel (not shown) to the transmission, etc.

[0017] The damper device 1 is a device that absorbs and damps torque vibrations. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the damper device 1 can mainly include a disc plate 100 as a first rotating body to which power is input from a flywheel (not shown), a hub 200 as a second rotating body, a control plate 300, an elastic mechanism 400, a thrust member 500, a first sliding member 600, and a second sliding member 700. In this application, the term "axial direction" refers to a direction extending parallel to the rotation axis O, the term "radial direction" refers to a direction extending perpendicular to the rotation axis O, and the term "circumferential direction" refers to a direction revolving around the rotation axis O.

[0018] The flywheel may be an annular plate member fixed by bolts or the like to a drive shaft (not shown) connected to a drive source.

[0019] The power transmitted from the drive shaft to the flywheel can be transmitted to the disc plate 100 via a cover plate (not shown) and a friction material (not shown) that are fixed to the flywheel with bolts or the like and rotate integrally with the flywheel.

[0020] 1-1. Disc Plate 100 In the damper device 1, as described above, power from a drive source such as an engine or a motor is transmitted via a flywheel to the disc plate 100, which serves as a first rotating body and is arranged on the most upstream side. The disc plate 100 may be formed, for example, from a metal material and, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 , may be rotatably mounted around a rotation axis O, sandwiching a hub 200 or the like, which serves as a second rotating body (described later). The disc plate 100 may include a first plate 100A and a second plate 100B, which serve as a pair of substantially annular plate members, provided on both axial sides of the hub 200 (the second plate 100B may be arranged opposite the first plate 100A in the axial direction).

[0021] The first plate 100A and the second plate 100B can have a shape that is approximately symmetrical in the axial direction, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The first plate 100A and the second plate 100B can rotate integrally by being connected near their outer peripheries with a plurality of rivets, with a substantially annular lining plate 101 interposed between them, the positions of which can be adjusted in the axial direction.

[0022] Power from a drive source such as an engine or a motor can be transmitted from the lining plate 101 to the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B via a friction material (not shown) provided on the lining plate 101.

[0023] The first plate 100A and the second plate 100B can cooperate with each other to form axially bulging shapes to form accommodation regions (four accommodation regions are shown in the example shown in FIG. 1 ) that correspond to regions I to IV and accommodate the elastic mechanism 400 described below. Each accommodation region can extend in a substantially linear or arc-like shape along the circumferential direction of the disc plate 100 to accommodate the third elastic member 410 and a pair of sheet members 420 (sheet member 420A and sheet member 420B) of the elastic mechanism 400 that extends along the circumferential direction of the disc plate 100. Note that regions I to IV refer to four regions that each have a substantially 90-degree sector shape as shown in FIG. 1 when the damper device 1 is viewed from above.

[0024] 1, the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B may be formed with a first housing area 102a, a second housing area 102b, a third housing area 102c, and a fourth housing area 102d extending in the circumferential direction, corresponding to areas I to IV, respectively. Note that, as will be described later, the hub 200 may be provided with window holes 206a, 206b, 206c, and 206d in each area, corresponding to the first housing area 102a, the second housing area 102b, the third housing area 102c, and the fourth housing area 102d, respectively.

[0025] 1, the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B may include a first end surface (fourth first end surface) 104d1 and a second end surface (fourth second end surface) 104d2 facing the first end surface 104d1 as side walls surrounding the fourth accommodation region 102d. The fourth end surface 104d1 and the fourth second end surface 104d2 may extend along the axial direction of the disc plate 100, for example.

[0026] Similarly, with regard to region I, the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B can include one end face (first end face) 104a1 and the other end face (first other end face) 104a2 facing thereto as side walls surrounding the first accommodating region 102a. With regard to region II, the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B can include one end face (second end face) 104b1 and the other end face (second other end face) 104b2 facing thereto as side walls surrounding the second accommodating region 102b. With regard to region III, the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B can include one end face (third end face) 104c1 and the other end face (third other end face) 104c2 facing thereto as side walls surrounding the third accommodating region 102c. These side walls can abut (engage) with an elastic mechanism 400, which will be described later.

[0027] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the lining plate 101 included in the disc plate 100 can be arranged to rotate around the same rotation axis O as the hub 200. Therefore, each of regions I to IV in the lining plate 101 can be provided with a notch 105 that allows circumferential movement (relative rotation) of the hub 200, as shown in Figures 2 and 4. Furthermore, the outer edge of the notch 105 can function as a restricting portion 106 that restricts excessive relative rotation of the hub 200.

[0028] 1-2. Hub 200 The hub 200 serving as the second rotating body can function as an output member in the damper device 1. The hub 200 can be formed, for example, from a metal material and can have a generally disc-like shape as a whole. The hub 200 can be sandwiched between the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B and can be rotatable around the rotation axis O relative to the disc plate 100 (the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the hub 200 can have a generally cylindrical cylindrical portion 202 having a through-hole 203 through which an input shaft (not shown) of a transmission is inserted and spline-coupled to the input shaft. The hub 200 can also include an annular portion 205 extending radially outward from the cylindrical portion 202.

[0029] 2 and 4, the annular portion 205 may be provided with equally spaced window holes (or cutouts) 206a, 206b, 206c, and 206d corresponding to the first accommodating region 102a, the second accommodating region 102b, the third accommodating region 102c, and the fourth accommodating region 102d, respectively. These window holes 206a to 206d provided in the hub 200 may be provided to correspond to an elastic mechanism 400, which will be described later. Each of the window holes 206a to 206d may accommodate the elastic mechanism 400. Note that each of the window holes 206a to 206d may have a shape in which the radially outer portion is closed, as illustrated in FIG. 2, or may have a shape in which the radially outer portion is open, as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0030] 2 , the window hole 206a, which corresponds to region I, has an engaging portion (first engaging portion) 206a1 on one end side and an engaging portion (first engaging portion) 206a2 on the other end side facing the engaging portion, and can abut (engage) with the elastic mechanism 400. Similarly, the window hole 206b, which corresponds to region II, has an engaging portion (second engaging portion) 206b1 on one end side and an engaging portion (second engaging portion) 206b2 on the other end side facing the engaging portion, and can abut (engage) with the elastic mechanism 400. Furthermore, the window hole 206c, which corresponds to region III, has an engaging portion (third engaging portion) 206c1 on one end side and an engaging portion (third engaging portion) 206c2 on the other end side facing the engaging portion, and can abut (engage) with the elastic mechanism 400. In addition, corresponding to region IV, the window hole 206d has an engaging portion on one end side (fourth engaging portion on one end side) 206d1 and an engaging portion on the other end side (fourth engaging portion on the other end side) 206d2 opposite thereto, and can abut (engage) with the elastic mechanism part 400.

[0031] Note that the phrase "contacting the elastic mechanism 400" for each of the window holes 206a to 206d can mean contacting a third elastic member 410 or a pair of sheet members 420, which will be described later.

[0032] Protrusions 207a, 207b, 207c, and 207d may be provided at the radial end of the annular portion 205, corresponding to regions I to IV. The protrusions 207a to 207d may be housed in notches 105 provided in the lining plate 101 so that the hub 200 can rotate relative to the disc plate 100. Furthermore, when the hub 200 rotates a predetermined torsional angle relative to the disc plate 100, the protrusions 207a to 207d come into contact with the restricting portions 106, which are the outer edges of the notches 105, and can restrict excessive relative rotation of the hub 200.

[0033] Furthermore, grooves 208a, 208b, 208c and 208d are provided radially inward of each of the aforementioned window holes 206a, 206b, 206c and 206d, as shown in Figures 2 to 4, to receive axially extending portions 303a to 303d of the control plate 300, which will be described later.

[0034] 1-3. Control Plate 300 The control plate 300 is formed from a metal material such as spring steel and can have a generally annular shape as a whole. In the damper device 1, the control plate 300 can be disposed axially between the first plate 100A and the hub 200 (the annular portion 205 thereof).

[0035] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the control plate 300 can include a ring-shaped base 301, a plurality of radially extending portions (first engaging portions) 302 extending radially from the base 301 and abutting the elastic mechanism portion 400 described later, and a plurality of axially extending portions 303 (second engaging portions) extending axially from the base 301 and partially accommodated in the hub 200.

[0036] In one example, the radially extending portion 302 may include a radially extending portion 302a corresponding to region I, a radially extending portion 302b corresponding to region II, a radially extending portion 302c corresponding to region III, and a radially extending portion 302d corresponding to region IV, so as to correspond to each of regions I to IV, as illustrated in Fig. 2. In another example, the radially extending portion 302 may include only a radially extending portion 302a corresponding to region I and a radially extending portion 302c corresponding to region III, so as to correspond to a plurality of regions out of regions I to IV, for example, only regions I and III, as illustrated in Fig. 4.

[0037] In one example, the axially extending portion 303 may include an axially extending portion 303a corresponding to region I, an axially extending portion 303b corresponding to region II, an axially extending portion 303c corresponding to region III, and an axially extending portion 303d corresponding to region IV, so as to correspond to each of regions I to IV. In another example, although not shown, the axially extending portion 303 may be provided so as to correspond to only a plurality of regions among regions I to IV.

[0038] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the radially extending portion 302a is provided so as to abut against the third elastic member 410 (or one of the sheet members 420A and 420B constituting the pair of sheet members 420) accommodated in the first accommodating region 102a (window hole 206a), and the radially extending portion 302b is provided so as to abut against the third elastic member 410 (or one of the sheet members 420A and 420B constituting the pair of sheet members 420) accommodated in the second accommodating region 102b (window hole 206b). The radially extending portion 302c is arranged to abut against the third elastic member 410 (or either one of the sheet members 420A and 420B constituting the pair of sheet members 420) accommodated in the third accommodating area 102c (window hole 206c), and the radially extending portion 302d can be arranged to abut against the third elastic member 410 (or either one of the sheet members 420A and 420B constituting the pair of sheet members 420) accommodated in the fourth accommodating area 102d (window hole 206d).

[0039] The radially extending length of each radially extending portion 302 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to ensure an appropriate contact area with the elastic mechanism portion 400 (either the first elastic body 400 or one of the sheet members 420A and 420B that constitute the pair of sheet members 420).

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 2, the axially extending portion 303a can be accommodated in a groove portion 208a provided radially inside the window hole 206a, the axially extending portion 303b can be accommodated in a groove portion 208b provided radially inside the window hole 206b, the axially extending portion 303c can be accommodated in a groove portion 208c provided radially inside the window hole 206c, and the axially extending portion 303d can be accommodated in a groove portion 208d provided radially inside the window hole 206d.

[0041] 2, the axially extending portion 303a may be accommodated in a position close to the wall portion 208w that defines the groove portion 208a (at least in a position offset from the center position of the groove portion 208a). The axially extending portions 303b, 303c, and 303d may also be accommodated in the corresponding groove portions 208b, 208c, and 208d in positions similar to those of the axially extending portion 303a.

[0042] 3 and 4, each axial extension 303 protrudes axially from the base 301 and may extend through the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. Furthermore, each axial extension 303 may include an end 303F that abuts against the inner surface 110B of the second plate 100B.

[0043] 3 and 4, the end 303F of each axially extending portion 303 may be formed by an annular member 320 that is disposed between the second plate 100B and the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and that fits onto the tip end 303E of the axially extending portion 303 to rotate integrally with the axially extending portion 303. In another example, the end 303F of each axially extending portion 303 may be the end of the axially extending portion 303 itself.

[0044] Here, the axially extending portions 303a to 303d are not engaged or fitted with the hub 200 by any means in the corresponding grooves 208a to 208d, but can be configured so that the hub 200 and the control plate 300 can rotate integrally only in "predetermined cases." Therefore, the control plate 300 and the hub 200 do not always rotate integrally.

[0045] Here, the above-mentioned "predetermined case" will be explained. For example, when the hub 200 rotates in a predetermined direction (e.g., the L direction (counterclockwise) in FIGS. 1 and 2) relative to the disc plate 100 by a predetermined torsional angle or more, the axially extending portions 303a to 303d each abut against the wall portion 208w that defines the groove portion 208a. As a result, only when the hub 200 rotates in the predetermined direction (e.g., the L direction (counterclockwise) in FIGS. 1 and 2) relative to the disc plate 100 by a predetermined torsional angle or more, the control plate 300 rotates integrally with the hub 200 in the predetermined direction (the L direction in FIGS. 1 and 2) relative to the disc plate 100.

[0046] As a result, the radial extension 302a can generate a first sliding torque by sliding against a sliding surface 602a of the first sliding member 600 (described later). In addition, the axial extension 302a can generate a second sliding torque by sliding its end 303F against the inner surface 110B of the second plate 100B.

[0047] Similarly, the radially extending portions 302b to 302d can also generate a first sliding torque by sliding against the sliding surface 602a of the first sliding member 600. In addition, the axially extending portions 302b to 302d can generate a second sliding torque by sliding their ends 303F against the inner surface 110B of the second plate 100B.

[0048] The mechanism by which the control plate 300 and the hub 200 can rotate together will be described later.

[0049] On the other hand, in cases other than the above where the control plate 300 rotates integrally with the hub 200, the hub 200 basically rotates relative to the control plate 300. In this case, a second sliding member 700 (described below) that is disposed between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the first sliding member 600 and rotates integrally with the control plate 300 slides against the annular portion 205 of the hub 200, thereby generating a third sliding torque.

[0050] It is preferable that a commonly known friction material be separately applied to the surface of each radially extending portion 302 that comes into sliding contact with the sliding surface 602a of the first sliding member 600, or that a predetermined surface treatment be applied thereto, in order to increase (or decrease) the magnitude of the first sliding torque. This allows the magnitude of the first sliding torque to be adjusted to a desired magnitude. Similarly, it is preferable that a commonly known friction material be separately applied to the end portion 303F of each axially extending portion 303, or that a predetermined surface treatment be applied thereto, in order to increase (or decrease) the magnitude of the second sliding torque. This allows the magnitude of the second sliding torque to be adjusted to a desired magnitude.

[0051] In the damper device 1 according to one embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the first sliding torque, which is generated only in the "predetermined cases" described above, may be appropriately set to be larger than the second sliding torque through the aforementioned friction material, surface treatment, etc.

[0052] 1-4. Elastic Mechanism 400 As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the elastic mechanism 400 may include a third elastic member 410 and a pair of sheet members 420 (sheet member 420A and sheet member 420B) that sandwich and support the third elastic member 410 from both sides in each of regions I to IV. The elastic mechanism 400 may be configured without the pair of sheet members 420. Note that, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, one third elastic member 410 may be disposed in each of regions I to IV, but two or more third elastic members 410 may also be configured to be disposed in series.

[0053] A commonly known coil spring can be used as the third elastic member 410. The sheet members 420A and 420B can be made of any material including resin, metal, or the like.

[0054] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, for example, four storage areas are formed in the disc plate 100, namely, a first storage area 102a, a second storage area 102b, a third storage area 102c, and a fourth storage area 102d (corresponding to these, the hub 200 also has window holes 206a, 206b, 206c, and 206d, as described above), and one third elastic member 410 and a pair of sheet members 420 can be stored in each of these four storage areas, i.e., in association with each of areas I to IV.

[0055] 1 and 2, the seat member 420A can engage with the first end surface 104a1 of the disc plate 100 (first plate 100A and second plate 100B) and the first end engaging portion 206a1 provided on the hub 200. The seat member 420B can engage with the first other end surface 104a2 of the disc plate 100 (first plate 100A and second plate 100B) and the first other end engaging portion 206a2 provided on the hub 200. Similarly, in regions II to IV, the seat members 420A and 420B constituting the pair of seat members 420 can engage with the disc plate 100 and the hub 200.

[0056] As described above, each radial extension 302 in the control plate 300 can abut against the third elastic member 410 (or either one of the sheet members 420A and 420B constituting the pair of sheet members 420) in each of regions I to IV, as shown in Figure 2, etc.

[0057] With the above configuration, the elastic mechanism 400 can elastically connect the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 in the rotational direction. When power from a drive source such as an engine or a motor is transmitted in the order of the disc plate 100, the elastic mechanism 400, and the hub 200, and the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 rotate relative to each other, the third elastic member 410 of the elastic mechanism 400 is compressed and deformed, allowing the damper device 1 to absorb torque fluctuations.

[0058] 1-5. Thrust member 500

[0059] 3, the thrust member 500 can be disposed between the second plate 100B and the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. The thrust member 500 can be formed, for example, from a resin material and can include a main portion 502 that has a generally annular shape as a whole, and a plurality of fitting portions 501 that protrude from the main portion 502 in the axial direction.

[0060] 3 and 4 , the main portion 502 can be inserted through the cylindrical portion 202 of the hub 200 and engaged with the hub 200. As an example, each fitting portion 501 corresponds to a fitting hole 112 provided in the second plate 100B and can be fitted (engaged) with this second fitting hole 112. This allows the thrust member 500 to be integrated with the second plate 100B (disc plate 100) and to rotate integrally with the disc plate 100 around the rotation axis O.

[0061] 3, the main portion 502 may include a surface (sliding surface) 502y that is slidable against the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. This allows the main portion 502 to slide the sliding surface 502y against the annular portion 205 of the hub 200, thereby generating a fourth sliding torque.

[0062] This fourth sliding torque is always generated when the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 rotate relative to each other, and can be used to form both a "small hysteresis torque" and a "large hysteresis torque" in the damper device 1. In the damper device 1 according to one embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 4, the "small hysteresis torque" refers to the combined torque of the third sliding torque and the fourth sliding torque described above, and the "large hysteresis torque" refers to the combined torque of the first sliding torque and the fourth sliding torque described above.

[0063] 1-6. First sliding member 600 The first sliding member 600 is disposed between the disc plate 100 (first plate 100A) and the control plate 300, and is capable of sliding against each radially extending portion 302 (radially extending portions 302a to 302d) of the control plate 300 to generate a first sliding torque.

[0064] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first sliding member 600 is formed from, for example, a resin material or a metal material composed of a compound containing a 3d transition metal, and can include a main portion 602 having a substantially annular shape and a plurality of fitting portions 603 protruding axially from the main portion 602.

[0065] The main portion 602 can have a generally annular shape and include a sliding surface 602a that slides against the radially extending portions 302 (radially extending portions 302a to 302d) of the control plate 300. The annular portion 205 of the hub 200 can be inserted into the main portion 602. In order to increase (or decrease) the magnitude of the first sliding torque generated by sliding against the radially extending portions 302, it is preferable that a commonly known friction material is separately applied to the sliding surface 602a or that a predetermined surface treatment is applied. This makes it possible to adjust the magnitude of the first sliding torque to a desired value.

[0066] Each fitting portion 603 can be fitted into a fitting hole 108 formed in the first plate 100A. With the hub 200 inserted, the first sliding member 600 can be coupled to the first plate 100A (in a state where it can move in the axial direction) by engaging each fitting portion 603 with the fitting hole 108. This allows the first sliding member 600 to rotate integrally with the first plate 100A.

[0067] A first elastic member 800 can be disposed between the first sliding member 600 and the first plate 100A. The first elastic member 800 can bias the first sliding member 600 (coupled to the first plate 100A in a state where it can move axially) in a direction approaching the control plate 300 (toward the left in FIG. 3 ). Note that although the schematic diagram of FIG. 3 shows the first elastic member 800 as sinking into the first sliding member 600, in reality, the first elastic member 800 abuts against the surface of the first sliding member 600.

[0068] As a result, when the control plate 300 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 (when it rotates integrally with the hub 200), the sliding surface 602a of the first sliding member 600, which rotates integrally with the disc plate 100, is pressed against the radial extension portion 302 by the first elastic member 800, thereby generating a first sliding torque.

[0069] A commonly known disc spring may be used as the first elastic member 800, but is not limited to this. The first elastic member 800 is supported by the first plate 100A and the first sliding member 600 and can bias the sliding surface 602a of the main portion 602 in a direction approaching the radially extending portion 302 of the control plate 300 (toward the left in FIG. 3 ). Meanwhile, a reaction force associated with this bias can be transmitted from the first elastic member 800 to the first plate 100A.

[0070] 3 and 4, the second sliding member 700 can be disposed between the first sliding member 600 and the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. The second sliding member 700 can be formed, for example, from a resin material or the like, and can include a main portion 702 having a substantially annular shape, and a fitting portion 704 that protrudes from the main portion 702 in the axial direction and has a substantially circular annular shape.

[0071] The fitting portion 704 may include a plurality of protrusions 704a that protrude radially outward. The fitting portion 704 has a shape that corresponds to the fitting hole 310 formed in the center of the control plate 300, and can be inserted into the fitting hole 310. The fitting portion 704 may have an outer diameter that is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the fitting hole 310. As a result, by inserting the fitting portion 704 into the fitting hole 310, the second sliding member 700 can rotate integrally with the control plate 300 while supporting the control plate 300.

[0072] The second sliding member 700 is configured to be movable axially relative to the control plate 300, but is prevented from moving circumferentially relative to the control plate 300 due to the presence of a convex portion 704a formed on the fitting portion 704.

[0073] Optionally, a second elastic member 900 may be disposed between the second sliding member 700 and the control plate 300. The second elastic member 900 can bias the second sliding member 700 (coupled to the control plate 300 in an axially movable state) in a direction approaching the annular portion 250 of the hub 200 (toward the left in FIG. 3 ).

[0074] A commonly known disc spring can be used as the second elastic member 900, but is not limited to this. The second elastic member 900 is supported by the second sliding member 700 and the control plate 300 and can bias the sliding surface 702a of the second sliding member 700 in a direction approaching the annular portion 250 of the hub 200 (toward the left in FIG. 3 ). Note that although the schematic diagram of FIG. 3 shows the second elastic member 900 as sinking into the control plate 300, in reality, the second elastic member 900 abuts against the surface of the control plate 300.

[0075] In cases other than the above-mentioned "predetermined cases," such second sliding member 700 rotates relative to the hub 200, causing the sliding surface 702a to slide against the annular portion 250 of the hub 200 and generate a third sliding torque. As with other sliding surfaces, it is preferable that a commonly known friction material is separately applied to the sliding surface 702a, or that a predetermined surface treatment is applied to the sliding surface 702a.

[0076] 2. Operation of the Damper Device Next, the operation of the damper device 1 having the above configuration will be further described with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5F and 6. FIG. 5A is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the first rotating body (disk plate 100) and the second rotating body (hub 200) are not rotating relative to each other in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5B is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) is rotating relatively to the first rotating body (disk plate 100) at a torsion angle θ1° on the positive side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5C is a top view schematically illustrating a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) is rotating relatively to the first rotating body (disk plate 100) at a torsion angle θ2° on the positive side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. 5D is a top view schematically showing a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) rotates relative to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) at a torsion angle θ3° on the negative side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5E is a top view schematically showing a state in which the second rotating body (hub 200) rotates relative to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) at a torsion angle θ4° on the negative side in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5F is a top view schematically showing a state in which the relative rotation of the second rotating body (hub 200) with respect to the first rotating body (disc plate 100) is being canceled from the state shown in FIG. 5E in the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a characteristic diagram schematically showing the torsional characteristics of the damper device 1 shown in FIG. 1. 5A to 5F, for the sake of convenience, the pair of sheet members 420 (sheet member 420A and sheet member 420B) in the elastic mechanism portion 400 are omitted from illustration.

[0077] 5A shows a state in which power from a drive source such as an engine or a motor is transmitted to the damper device 1, but no relative rotation occurs between the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 (torsion angle 0°). In this case, none of the first to fourth sliding torques described above is generated.

[0078] 5A, when no relative rotation occurs between the disc plate 100 and the hub 200, the axially extending portions 303a to 303d of the control plate 300 are accommodated inside the corresponding grooves 208a to 208d of the hub 200, at positions close to the wall portions 208w that define the grooves 208a to 208d. In other words, gaps of approximately the same distance are formed between the axially extending portion 303a and the wall portion 208w, between the axially extending portion 303b and the wall portion 208w, between the axially extending portion 303c and the wall portion 208w, and between the axially extending portion 303d and the wall portion 208w, and the axially extending portions 303a to 303d do not abut against the wall portion 208w.

[0079] Next, FIG. 5B shows a case where relative rotation occurs between the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 from the state shown in FIG. 5A, resulting in a torsion of θ1° in the positive direction. Here, the positive direction refers to, for example, when the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 in the R direction (clockwise in FIG. 5B, i.e., the first rotation direction). In this case, the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 while deflecting the third elastic member 410. Furthermore, at torsion angles of 0° to θ1°, the gaps between the axially extending portions 303a to 303d and their corresponding wall portions 208w gradually increase, so that the two (the axially extending portions 303a to 303d and the wall portions 208w) are still not in contact with each other. Therefore, the control plate 300 is not affected by the relative rotation of the hub 200 relative to the disc plate 100 and does not rotate relative to the disc plate 100. On the other hand, the control plate 300 rotates relative to the hub 200 (the hub 200 rotates relative to the control plate 300).

[0080] 3, the fourth sliding torque described above can be generated by sliding between the sliding surface 502y of the thrust member 500, which rotates integrally with the disc plate 100, and the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. Furthermore, as the hub 200 and the control plate 300 rotate relative to each other, the sliding surface 702a of the second sliding member 700 slides against the annular portion 205 of the hub 200, and a third sliding torque can be generated.

[0081] As described above, in the states of Fig. 5A and 5B, the combined torque of the third sliding torque and the fourth sliding torque can be generated as hysteresis torque. In this case, the hysteresis torque may correspond to "small hysteresis torque."

[0082] Next, Figure 5C shows a case where the relative rotation of the hub 200 with respect to the disc plate 100 has progressed further from the state shown in Figure 5B, resulting in a torsion of θ2° in the positive direction. In this case, the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 while further deflecting the third elastic member 410. Furthermore, at a torsion angle of θ2°, the protrusions 207a to 207d on the hub 200 abut against the restricting portion 106 provided on the lining plate 101. As a result, the hub 200 is restricted from rotating relative to the disc plate 100 by more than θ2° in the positive direction, and therefore the torsion angle of θ2° can be considered the maximum torsion angle in the positive direction.

[0083] At torsion angles of θ1° to θ2°, the gap between the axially extending portions 303a to 303d and the corresponding wall portions 208w further increases, so the two still do not come into contact with each other. Therefore, the control plate 300 is not affected by the relative rotation of the hub 200 with respect to the disc plate 100, and does not rotate relative to the disc plate 100. On the other hand, the control plate 300 rotates relative to the hub 200 (the hub 200 rotates relative to the control plate 300).

[0084] In this case (from the state in FIG. 5B to the state in FIG. 5C), the third sliding torque and the fourth sliding torque can be generated, as in the case of the transition from the state in FIG. 5A to the state in FIG. 5B. Therefore, a "small hysteresis torque" can be generated also in the state in FIG. 5B to the state in FIG. 5C.

[0085] On the other hand, Figure 5D shows a case where relative rotation occurs between the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 from the state shown in Figure 5A, resulting in a twist of θ3° on the negative side. Here, "negative side" refers, for example, to a case where the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 in the L direction (counterclockwise in Figure 5D, i.e., the second rotation direction). In this case, the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 while deflecting the third elastic member 410. Furthermore, at torsion angles of 0° to θ3°, the gaps between the axially extending portions 303a to 303d and their corresponding wall portions 208w gradually decrease, until at a torsion angle of θ3°, the two abut (the gaps no longer exist). Therefore, at torsion angles of 0° to θ3°, the control plate 300 is not affected by the relative rotation of the hub 200 with respect to the disc plate 100 and does not yet rotate relative to the disc plate 100. On the other hand, the control plate 300 rotates relative to the hub 200 (the hub 200 rotates relative to the control plate 300).

[0086] Here, the radially extending portions 302a to 302d of the control plate 300 are essentially in contact with the elastic mechanism 400 in each of the regions I to IV. For example, when the hub 200 is not rotating relative to the disc plate 100 (the state shown in FIG. 5A ), and when the hub 200 is rotating relative to the disc plate 100 on the positive side (the states shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C ), the radially extending portions 302a to 302d are constantly in contact with the elastic mechanism 400. However, as the torsion angle approaches 0° to θ3°, this contact relationship is gradually dissolved. That is, at torsion angles of 0° to θ3°, gaps are formed between the radially extending portions 302a to 302d of the control plate 300 and the third elastic member 410 (the elastic mechanism 400), and the distance (size) of the gap gradually increases. This is linked to the fact that there are no gaps between the axially extending portions 303a to 303d and the wall portion 208w.

[0087] In this case (from the state in FIG. 5A to the state in FIG. 5D), the third sliding torque and the fourth sliding torque described above are generated, as in the case of the transition from the state in FIG. 5A to the state in FIG. 5B. Therefore, a "small hysteresis torque" is generated in the states in FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D as well.

[0088] Next, Figure 5E shows a case where the relative rotation of the hub 200 with respect to the disc plate 100 has progressed further from the state shown in Figure 5D, resulting in a torsion of θ4° on the negative side. In this case, the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 while further deflecting the third elastic member 410. At a torsion angle of θ4°, the protrusions 207a-207d on the hub 200 each abut against the restricting portion 106 provided on the lining plate 101. This restricts the hub 200 from rotating relative to the negative side by more than θ4°, so the torsion angle of θ4° can be considered the maximum torsion angle on the negative side. In this case, the gap formed in the state shown in Figure 5D remains between the radially extending portions 302a-302d of the control plate 300 and the elastic mechanism 400 (third elastic member 410).

[0089] Here, at torsion angles of θ3° to θ4°, the axially extending portions 303a to 303d abut against the corresponding wall portions 208w. Therefore, the control plate 300 (axially extending portions 303a to 303d) is guided (pressed) by the wall portions 208w of the hub 200, and can rotate together with the hub 200 (integrally with the hub 200) relative to the disc plate 100 in the L direction.

[0090] In this case (from the state of FIG. 5D to the state of FIG. 5E ), the disc plate 100 and the hub 200 are rotating relative to each other, and so the fourth sliding torque described above can be generated, as in the case of the transition from the state of FIG. 5A to the state of FIG. 5B . Furthermore, in this case (from the state of FIG. 5D to the state of FIG. 5E ), as the control plate 300 rotates relative to the disc plate 100, the first sliding torque described above can be generated between the first sliding surface 602 a of the first sliding member 600 and each radially extending portion 302 of the control plate 300, as described above. In addition, as the control plate 300 rotates relative to the disc plate 100, the second sliding torque described above can be generated between each axially extending portion 303 of the control plate 300 and the inner surface 110B of the second plate 100B, as described above.

[0091] In this case, the hub 200 and the control plate 300 rotate integrally, so the third sliding torque is not generated. The first sliding torque generated in this case can be preset to be greater than the third sliding torque. Regarding such a setting, the coefficients of friction of the first sliding surface 602a and the radially extending portions 302 that generate the first sliding torque can be appropriately adjusted by any of the methods described above.

[0092] 5D to 5E, the sum of the fourth sliding torque, the first sliding torque, and the second sliding torque may be generated as hysteresis torque. The hysteresis torque in this case may be considered to be equivalent to a "large hysteresis torque."

[0093] Next, Figure 5F shows a state in which the relative rotation of the hub 200 with respect to the disc plate 100 is being released from the state of Figure 5E, and the hub 200 is in the process of transitioning from the maximum torsion angle θ4° on the negative side toward a torsion angle of 0°. In this case, the hub 200 can move relatively in the R direction toward a torsion angle of 0° while gradually releasing the deflection of the third elastic member 410. Therefore, the torsion angle in the state of Figure 5F can be said to be, for example, between θ3° and θ4°.

[0094] In this case, when the hub 200 first moves relatively in the R direction from the torsion angle θ4° (moves so as to cancel the relative rotation in the L direction), the abutment between each axially extending portion 303 and the corresponding wall portion 208w is canceled, and a gap may be sequentially formed between them again. Therefore, the rotation of the control plate 300 in the R direction (relative rotation with respect to the disc plate 100) cannot be guided by the hub 200. Therefore, a slight time difference occurs between the timing at which the relative rotation of the hub 200 on the negative side with respect to the disc plate 100 is canceled and the timing at which the relative rotation of the control plate 300 on the negative side with respect to the disc plate 100 is canceled.

[0095] When the hub 200 moves relatively in the R direction by a predetermined angle (e.g., α°) prior to the control plate 300 (without guiding the control plate 300) to eliminate the negative relative rotation from the torsion angle θ4°, the gaps formed between the radially extending portions 302 of the control plate 300 and the elastic mechanism 400 in the state shown in FIG. 5D (and FIG. 5E ) gradually become smaller and eventually disappear. As a result, the radially extending portions 302 of the control plate 300 and the elastic mechanism 400 come into contact with each other again. In this state, the elastic mechanism 400 is still deflected, so the elastic mechanism 400 presses (biases) the control plate 300 in the R direction. As a result, the control plate 300 now rotates relative to the disc plate 100 in the R direction due to the biasing force generated by the deflection of the elastic mechanism 400.

[0096] To further explain the above flow, from the torsion angle θ4° to θ4-α°, only the hub 200 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 in the R direction, and thus a third sliding torque and a fourth sliding torque are generated, similar to the transition from the state of FIG. 5A to the state of FIG. 5B. In other words, a "small hysteresis torque" is generated. On the other hand, from θ4-α° to 0°, not only the hub 200 but also the control plate 300 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 in the R direction, and therefore a fourth sliding torque, a first sliding torque, and a second sliding torque can be generated, similar to the transition from the state of FIG. 5D to the state of FIG. 5E. In other words, a "large hysteresis torque" can be generated.

[0097] According to the flow of operation of the damper device 1 described above with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5F, the torsional characteristics of the damper device 1 are shown in FIG.

[0098] Here, the "large hysteresis torque" generated only on the negative side, i.e., the hysteresis torque obtained by combining the fourth sliding torque, the first sliding torque, and the second sliding torque, can be suitably used, for example, in a hybrid vehicle, to absorb torque fluctuations that occur when the engine is started under certain conditions while the engine is stopped and the vehicle is driven only by the motor. Furthermore, as described above, the "small hysteresis torque," i.e., the hysteresis torque obtained by combining the third sliding torque and the fourth sliding torque, can be generated on the positive side. In this way, the damper device 1 can generate a relatively small hysteresis torque on the positive side and a relatively large hysteresis torque on the negative side, and thus can stably generate a variety of hysteresis torques.

[0099] 3. Modifications In the various examples described above, the case has been described in which the end 303F of the axially extending portion 303 of the control plate 300 (the end of the axially extending portion 303 itself or the annular member 320 fitted to the axially extending portion 303) abuts against and slides against the inner surface 110B of the second plate 100B. However, instead of a configuration in which the end 303F of the axially extending portion 303 of the control plate 300 abuts directly against the second plate 100B, it is also possible to employ a configuration in which the end 303F abuts against and slides against some kind of member (rotating member) that rotates integrally with the second plate 100B.

[0100] An example of such a configuration is shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows the configuration of a damper device 1' according to a modified example. Note that, among the components in Fig. 7, the components that are common to those in the damper device 1 described with reference to Figs. 1 to 4 etc. are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0101] As illustrated in FIG. 7 , a thrust member 500′, which is one aspect of the aforementioned member (rotating member), is obtained by modifying the aforementioned thrust member 500 so as to include a main portion 502′ in place of the main portion 502. The main portion 502′ can be inserted through the cylindrical portion 202 of the hub 200 and engage with the hub 200. The main portion 502′ has a larger diameter than the aforementioned main portion 502 (see FIG. 3 ), and can thereby extend radially to a position facing the axially extending portion 302 of the control plate 300. The main portion 502 can include a surface (sliding surface) 502y′ that can slide against the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. As a result, the main portion 502′ can slide the sliding surface 502y′ against the annular portion 205 of the hub 200, generating the aforementioned fourth sliding torque.

[0102] The axially extending portion 303′ (here, axially extending portion 303a′) of the control plate 300 can extend through the annular portion 205 of the hub 200. The axially extending portion 303′ can include an end portion 303F′ that abuts and slides against the main portion 502′ of the thrust member 500′.

[0103] The end 303F' may be formed by an annular member 320' that fits onto the tip of the axially extending portion 303' and rotates integrally with the axially extending portion 303'. In another example, the end 303F' may be the end of the axially extending portion 303' itself.

[0104] When the control plate 300 rotates relative to the disc plate 100 as the control plate 300 rotates integrally with the hub 200, the axially extending portion 303' can generate the second sliding torque described above by sliding the end portion 303F' against the main portion 502' of the thrust member 500' which rotates integrally with the disc plate 100.

[0105] Furthermore, in the various examples described above, the case has been described in which the second elastic member 900 can be optionally disposed between the second sliding member 700 and the control plate 300 in order to bias the second sliding member 700 in a direction approaching the annular portion 250 of the hub 200. However, instead of the configuration in which the second elastic member 900 is disposed between the second sliding member 700 and the control plate 300, it is also possible to employ a configuration in which the second elastic member 900 is disposed between the second sliding member 700 and the first sliding member 600.

[0106] An example of such a configuration is shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view that schematically shows the configuration of a damper device 1″ according to a modified example. Note that, among the components in FIG. 8, the components that are common to those in the damper device 1 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 etc. are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 8 , a second elastic member 900′ can be disposed between the second sliding member 700 and the first sliding member 600. The second elastic member 900′ can bias the second sliding member 700 in a direction approaching the annular portion 250 of the hub 200 (toward the left on the paper surface in FIG. 8 ). A commonly known disc spring can be used as the second elastic member 900′, but is not limited to this. The second elastic member 900′ can bias the sliding surface 702a of the second sliding member 700 in a direction approaching the annular portion 250 of the hub 200 (toward the left on the paper surface in FIG. 8 ) while being supported by the second sliding member 700 and the first sliding member 600.

[0108] The second sliding member 700, biased by the second elastic member 900′, rotates relative to the hub 200 in cases other than the above-mentioned “predetermined cases,” and as a result, the sliding surface 702a slides against the annular portion 250 of the hub 200, generating a third sliding torque, as described above.

[0109] The configuration illustrated in Fig. 8 can also be combined with the configuration illustrated in Fig. 7. That is, in the damper device 1' illustrated in Fig. 7, the second elastic member 900' illustrated in Fig. 8 can be disposed between the second sliding member 700 and the first sliding member 600.

[0110] 4. Effects of Various Examples In an example in which the end 303F (303F′) of the axially extending portion 303 (303′) of the control plate 300 abuts and slides against the second plate 100B or against a member 500′ that rotates integrally with the second plate 100B, in addition to the torque (first sliding torque) between the control plate 300 and the first sliding member 600, the torque (second sliding torque) generated between the end 303F (303F′) and the second plate 100B (member 500′) can be used as a torque specific to the negative side that does not occur on the positive side. As a result, compared to the damper device disclosed in Patent Document 1 (in which only the torque generated between the control plate (300) and the first sliding member (600) exists as a torque specific to the negative side), the torque on the positive side and the torque on the negative side can be easily set individually by appropriately adjusting the magnitude of each of the first sliding torque and the second sliding torque in accordance with the needs related to the vehicle, etc., i.e., the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque can be increased.

[0111] In this case, the control plate 300 can be realized by using a part formed by processing a single plate-like member, or by fitting another rotating member 320 (320') to the tip of such a part. This reduces the number of parts required compared to the damper device disclosed in Patent Document 2 (which employs a configuration in which two control plates are crimped to a connector), and therefore allows for the damper device to be made smaller and / or less expensive.

[0112] In addition, in an example in which the end 303F (303F') of the axially extending portion 303 (303') of the control plate 300 abuts and slides against the second plate 100B or a member 500' that rotates integrally with the second plate 100B, the end 303F (303F') of the axially extending portion 303 of the control plate 300 abuts against the second plate 100B (or the thrust member 500' that rotates integrally with the second plate 100B).

[0113] As a result, the distance that the first sliding member 600 and the control plate 300, which are disposed between the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B, can move in the axial direction relative to the first plate 100A and the second plate 100B, is significantly smaller than that of the damper device disclosed in Patent Document 1. Therefore, the load generated by the first elastic member 800, which is disposed between the first plate 100A and the first sliding member 600, makes almost no contribution (even if it makes a contribution, it is slight) to the sliding torque (fourth sliding torque) between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the thrust member 500 (500′) and the sliding torque (third sliding torque) between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the second sliding member 700. As a result, the sliding torque (third sliding torque and fourth sliding torque) generated in the annular portion 205 of the hub 200, which is substantially unaffected by the first elastic member 800, and the sliding torque generated in the control plate 300 using the first elastic member 800, etc., can be adjusted separately.

[0114] Therefore, compared to the damper device disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is possible to easily set the positive torque and the negative torque individually according to vehicle-related needs, etc., i.e., it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque.

[0115] Furthermore, in an example in which the end 303F (303F') of the axially extending portion 303 (303') of the control plate 300 abuts and slides against the second plate 100B or against a member 500' that rotates integrally with the second plate 100B, as described above, the load generated by the first elastic member 800 contributes very little (if at all) to the sliding torque (fourth sliding torque) between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the thrust member 500 (500') and the sliding torque (third sliding torque) between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the second sliding member 700. In this example, by providing the second elastic member 900 (900'), the load generated by the second elastic member 900 can be transmitted between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the thrust member 500 (500'), and between the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 and the second sliding member 700. This makes it possible to more effectively separate and adjust the sliding torque (third sliding torque and fourth sliding torque) generated in the annular portion 205 of the hub 200 using the second elastic member 900 or the like, and the sliding torque generated in the control plate 300 using the first elastic member 800 or the like.

[0116] In this case, it is preferable that the load generated by the first elastic member 800 is greater than the load generated by the second elastic member 900 (the load generated by the second elastic member 900 is smaller than the load generated by the first elastic member 800) so that the load generated by the first elastic member 800 and the load generated by the second elastic member 900 are not balanced.

[0117] As described above, the technology disclosed in the present application makes it possible to provide a damper device that at least partially increases the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque while at least partially suppressing the impact on miniaturization and / or cost reduction.

[0118] As would be easily understood by a person skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, the various examples described above can be appropriately combined with one another in various patterns unless a contradiction occurs.

[0119] In view of the many possible embodiments to which the principles of the invention disclosed herein may be applied, it is to be understood that the various illustrated embodiments are merely preferred examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention to these preferred examples. Indeed, the scope of the claimed invention is defined by the appended claims. Accordingly, we claim the grant of a patent as our invention to all that fall within the scope of the claimed invention.

[0120] [Summary of this embodiment] A damper device according to a first aspect includes: "a first rotor including a first plate and a second plate provided opposite each other, which receives power from outside the damper device and rotates around a rotation axis; a second rotor which rotates around the rotation axis and outputs power to the outside of the damper device; an elastic mechanism portion disposed in the circumferential direction of the damper device between the first rotor and the second rotor; and a second rotor which includes: an annular base portion, a first engagement portion extending from the base portion in the radial direction of the damper device, and a second engagement portion which extends from the base portion in the axial direction of the damper device and has an end portion which comes into contact with the second plate or a rotating member which rotates integrally with the second plate; when the second rotor rotates in a first rotation direction relative to the first rotor, the second rotor and the elastic mechanism portion come into contact with each other, and the first engagement portion and the elastic mechanism portion come into contact with each other to contract the elastic mechanism portion; and a control plate that, when the second rotating body rotates relative to the first rotating body in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the second engagement portion abuts against the second rotating body and rotates integrally with the second rotating body, thereby rotating relatively to the first rotating body and causing the end to slide relative to the second plate or the rotating member.

[0121] This configuration can at least partially increase the degree of freedom in setting the hysteresis torque while at least partially minimizing the impact on size and / or cost reduction.

[0122] The damper device according to the second aspect can be configured as in the first aspect, further comprising: "a first sliding member through which the second rotating body is inserted, which is arranged between the control plate and the first plate and rotates integrally with the first plate; a first elastic member which is arranged between the first sliding member and the first plate and urges the first sliding member toward the control plate; a second sliding member through which the second rotating body is inserted, which is arranged between the radially extending portion of the second rotating body and the first sliding member, which supports the control plate and rotates integrally with the control plate; and a second elastic member which is arranged between the control plate and the second sliding member or between the first sliding member and the second sliding member and urges the second sliding member toward the portion of the second rotating body."

[0123] According to this configuration, the sliding torque generated by the second elastic member etc. and the sliding torque generated by the first elastic member etc. can be adjusted separately and more effectively.

[0124] The damper device according to the third aspect can be configured in the second aspect as described above, such that "the end of the second engagement portion abuts against the inner surface of the second plate, the second elastic member is disposed between the control plate and the second sliding member, and the load generated by the first elastic member is larger than the load generated by the second elastic member."

[0125] According to this configuration, the sliding torque generated by the second elastic member etc. and the sliding torque generated by the first elastic member etc. can be adjusted separately and more effectively.

[0126] The damper device according to the fourth aspect can be configured in the third aspect described above such that "the torque that the end of the second engagement portion applies to the inner surface of the second plate is based on a value obtained by subtracting the load of the second elastic member from the load of the first elastic member."

[0127] According to this configuration, the sliding torque generated by the second elastic member etc. and the sliding torque generated by the first elastic member etc. can be adjusted separately and more effectively.

[0128] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-197655, entitled "Damper Device," filed on November 21, 2023, and claims the benefit of priority from this Japanese patent application, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0129] 1, 1', 1" Damper device 100 First rotating body (disc plate) 100A First plate 100B Second plate 200 Second rotating body (hub) 202 Cylindrical portion 205 Annular portion 206a to 206d Window holes 208a to 208d Groove portion 208w Wall portion 300 Control plate 302, 302a to 302d Radial extending portion (first engaging portion) 303, 303a to 303d Axial extending portion (second engaging portion) 303F (303F') End portion 320 Rotating member (annular member) 400 Elastic mechanism portion 410 Third elastic member 420 Pair of seat members 420A, 420B Seat members 500, 500' Thrust member 502y Second surface 600 First sliding member 700 Second sliding member 800 First elastic member 900 Second elastic member O Rotation axis R First rotation direction L Second rotation direction

Claims

1. A damper device comprising: a first rotor including a first plate and a second plate disposed opposite each other, the first rotor receiving power from outside the damper device and rotating around a rotation axis; a second rotor rotating around the rotation axis and outputting power to the outside of the damper device; an elastic mechanism disposed in the circumferential direction of the damper device between the first rotor and the second rotor; and a second engagement part having an annular base, a first engagement part extending from the base in the radial direction of the damper device, and an end part protruding from the base in the axial direction of the damper device and abutting against the second plate or a rotating member rotating integrally with the second plate, wherein when the second rotor rotates in a first rotational direction relative to the first rotor, the second rotor and the elastic mechanism come into contact with each other, and the first engagement part and the elastic mechanism come into contact with each other to contract the elastic mechanism, a control plate that, when the second rotating body rotates relative to the first rotating body in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, abuts against the second rotating body and rotates integrally with the second rotating body, thereby rotating relatively to the first rotating body and causing the end to slide relative to the second plate or the rotating member.

2. The damper device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first sliding member through which the second rotating body is inserted, disposed between the control plate and the first plate, and rotates integrally with the first plate; a first elastic member disposed between the first sliding member and the first plate, and urging the first sliding member toward the control plate; a second sliding member through which the second rotating body is inserted, disposed between the radially extending portion of the second rotating body and the first sliding member, supporting the control plate and rotating integrally with the control plate; and a second elastic member disposed between the control plate and the second sliding member or between the first sliding member and the second sliding member, and urging the second sliding member toward the portion of the second rotating body.

3. A damper device as described in claim 2, wherein the end of the second engagement portion abuts against the inner surface of the second plate, the second elastic member is disposed between the control plate and the second sliding member, and the load generated by the first elastic member is greater than the load generated by the second elastic member.

4. A damper device as described in claim 3, wherein the torque applied by the end of the second engagement portion to the inner surface of the second plate is based on a value obtained by subtracting the load of the second elastic member from the load of the first elastic member.

Images