Axial gap motor

Abstract

An axial gap motor (10) comprises: a stator (14); a rotor (12) that faces the stator with a gap therebetween in the axial direction of the stator; and a case (16) that accommodates the stator and the rotor. The stator has a core (26) and a coil (31) attached to the core. The rotor has a magnet (18) that faces the core in the axial direction of the stator, and a support member (24) that supports the magnet. The case has a first refrigerant port (71) and a second refrigerant port (72) that communicates with the first refrigerant port through the inside of the case. The support member has a support portion (24B) that supports the magnet, and a fin (73) located inward of the support portion in the radial direction of the rotor.

Description

Axial gap motor Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2025-054572 filed on March 27, 2025, and claims the benefit of priority therefrom. The entire content of that patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The technology of the present disclosure relates to an axial gap motor.

[0003] Some axial gap motors include a stator, a rotor facing the stator via a gap in the axial direction of the stator, and a case that accommodates the stator and the rotor (see, for example, Japanese Patent No. 6464856). In this axial gap motor, the stator includes a core and a coil attached to the core, and the rotor includes a magnet facing the core in the axial direction of the stator, and a support member that supports the magnet. Fins are provided on the surface of the support member opposite to the stator side, and are configured to generate air convection inside the case by the fins as the rotor rotates.

[0004] As a result of detailed studies by the inventor, the following problem has been found. That is, the coil generates heat when energized. However, in the configuration where air convection is generated inside the case by fins provided on the surface of the support member opposite to the stator side as in the above-described axial gap motor, air does not directly blow on the coil, so the cooling efficiency of the coil is low.

[0005] The technology of the present disclosure provides an axial gap motor capable of improving the cooling efficiency of a coil compared to conventional axial gap motors.

[0006] The technology of the present disclosure is an axial gap motor comprising a stator, a rotor facing the stator via a gap in the axial direction of the stator, and a case housing the stator and the rotor, wherein the stator has a core and a coil attached to the core, the rotor has a magnet facing the core in the axial direction of the stator and a support member supporting the magnet, the case has a first refrigerant port and a second refrigerant port communicating with the first refrigerant port through the inside of the case, and the support member has a support portion supporting the magnet and a fin located radially inward of the rotor relative to the support portion.

[0007] The technology of this disclosure provides an axial gap motor that can improve the cooling efficiency of the coil compared to conventional motors.

[0008] This is a perspective view showing a part of a motor according to one embodiment of the technology of this disclosure, cut off. This is a perspective view showing the motor disassembled. This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the motor cut along the axial and radial directions. This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the refrigerant flow path on the first rotor side. This is a plan view of the first support member. This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the refrigerant flow path on the second rotor side. This is a plan view of the second support member. This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the refrigerant flow path on the first teeth side. This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the refrigerant flow path on the second teeth side. This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the refrigerant flow path of the motor. This is a cross-sectional view of a motor according to a first modified example. This is a cross-sectional view of a motor according to a second modified example. This is a cross-sectional view of a motor according to a third modified example. This is a cross-sectional view of a motor according to a fourth modified example. This is a cross-sectional view of a motor according to a fifth modified example. This is a cross-sectional view of a motor according to a sixth modified example.

[0009] First, with reference to Figures 1 to 3, the general configuration of a motor 10 according to one embodiment of the technology of this disclosure will be described. In Figures 1 to 3, the arrows Z, R, and C indicate the axial side, radially outward side, and circumferential side of the motor 10, respectively. In the following description, the axial, radial, and circumferential directions of the motor 10 will be referred to as the axial, radial, and circumferential directions, respectively. Furthermore, the axial, radial, and circumferential directions of the rotor 12, stator 14, first frame 21, and second frame 23, which will be described later, are the same as the axial, radial, and circumferential directions of the motor 10, respectively.

[0010] The motor 10 comprises a rotor 12, a stator 14, a first frame 21, and a second frame 23. The rotor 12 and the stator 14 face each other in the axial direction with a gap between them. In other words, the motor 10 is an axial gap type motor in which the rotor 12 and the stator 14 face each other in the axial direction with an axial gap between them. Furthermore, the motor 10 is a brushless motor that does not have brushes. Moreover, as will be described later, the motor 10 is a double axial gap type motor in which the stator 14 is positioned between a first magnet 18 and a second magnet 19 that are spaced apart in the axial direction, thereby forming a first axial gap between the first magnet 18 and the stator 14, and a second axial gap between the second magnet 19 and the stator 14.

[0011] As an example, the first frame 21 is formed as a frame end, and the second frame 23 is formed as a heat sink. The first frame 21 and the second frame are examples of a "pair of frames" relating to the technology of this disclosure.

[0012] The stator 14 generates a rotating magnetic field relative to the rotor 12. The rotor 12 rotates due to the rotating magnetic field generated by the stator 14. The first frame 21 and the second frame 23 are spaced apart in the axial direction. The stator 14 is fixed to the first frame 21 and the second frame 23, and the rotor 12 is rotatably supported on both frames.

[0013] The rotor 12 comprises a rotating shaft 22, a first magnet 18, a second magnet 19, a first support member 24, and a second support member 25. The rotating shaft 22 extends in the axial direction. The first magnet 18 is fixed to the rotating shaft 22 via the first support member 24. The second magnet 19 is fixed to the rotating shaft 22 via the second support member 25.

[0014] The first magnet 18 and the first support member 24 form one axial portion of the rotor 12 (hereinafter referred to as the "first rotor portion 12A"), and the second magnet 19 and the second support member 25 form the other axial portion of the rotor 12 (hereinafter referred to as the "second rotor portion 12B"). The first rotor portion 12A and the second rotor portion 12B are examples of the "pair of rotor portions" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0015] The first support member 24 and the second support member 25 are formed from a non-magnetic material and are formed in a disc shape with the axial direction as the thickness direction. The first support member 24 and the second support member 25 may also be formed from a magnetic material. The first support member 24 and the second support member 25 are fixed to the rotation shaft 22 with an axial gap between them. The first support member 24 and the second support member 25 are examples of "support members" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0016] The first magnet 18 and the second magnet 19 are, for example, ring magnets formed in an annular shape along the circumferential direction. Alternatively, the first magnet 18 and the second magnet 19 may be configured with multiple segment magnets arranged in an annular shape along the circumferential direction. The first magnet 18 is fixed to the other axial side of the first support member 24. The second magnet 19 is fixed to one axial side of the second support member 25. As a result, the first magnet 18 and the second magnet 19 are positioned facing each other in the axial direction.

[0017] The magnetic pole center of the north pole of the first magnet 18 and the magnetic pole center of the south pole of the second magnet 19 are positioned opposite each other in the axial direction and at the same position in the circumferential direction.

[0018] The stator 14 comprises a core 26, a first coil 31, and a second coil 32. The core 26 is positioned between a first magnet 18 and a second magnet 19. The first coil 31 is mounted on one axial side of the core 26, and the second coil 32 is mounted on the other axial side of the core 26. The first coil 31 and the second coil 32 are examples of "coils" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0019] The core 26 comprises a plurality of tooth portions 26A, an inner flange portion 26B, and an outer flange portion 26C. The plurality of tooth portions 26A are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The plurality of tooth portions 26A form a magnetic flux path between the first magnet 18 and the second magnet 19. The inner flange portion 26B is located radially inward from the plurality of tooth portions 26A and connects the plurality of tooth portions 26A in the circumferential direction. The outer flange portion 26C is located radially outward from the plurality of tooth portions 26A and connects the plurality of tooth portions 26A in the circumferential direction.

[0020] Multiple (for example, 72) tooth portions 26A are set to have the same shape and dimensions. Multiple tooth portions 26A are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. Multiple tooth portions 26A are formed in a plate shape (in other words, a rectangular block shape) that extends axially with the circumferential direction as the thickness direction. The thickness dimension of the tooth portion 26A gradually increases towards the radially outward direction. Also, the axial dimension of the tooth portion 26A gradually decreases towards the radially outward direction. One axial surface of the tooth portion 26A is formed as a first opposing surface 26D that is positioned axially opposite to the first magnet 18. The other axial surface of the tooth portion 26A is formed as a second opposing surface 26E that is positioned axially opposite to the second magnet 19.

[0021] The inner flange portion 26B is formed in an annular shape, extending circumferentially with the axial direction as the thickness direction. The thickness dimension of the inner flange portion 26B is set to be smaller than the axial dimension of the multiple teeth portions 26A. The inner flange portion 26B connects the axial central portions of the radially inner ends of the multiple teeth portions 26A along the circumferential direction.

[0022] The outer flange portion 26C is formed in an annular shape, extending circumferentially with the axial direction as the thickness direction. The thickness dimension of the outer flange portion 26C is set to be smaller than the axial dimension of the multiple teeth portions 26A. The thickness dimension of the outer flange portion 26C is set to be the same as the thickness dimension of the inner flange portion 26B. Multiple notches 26F are formed on the outer circumference of the outer flange portion 26C. The multiple notches 26F have a shape that is cut out so that the radially outer side is open. For example, 16 notches 26F are formed on the outer circumference of the outer flange portion 26C. The 16 notches 26F are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. The 16 notches 26F have the function of preventing rotation of the first frame 21 and the second frame 23, which will be described later, and the function of allowing the bolt 50 to pass through in the axial direction.

[0023] The first coil 31 is formed by a plurality of coil layers 54. For example, the first coil 31 has two coil layers 54. The two coil layers 54 are mounted on one axial side of the core 26 in an axially overlapping manner. Similarly, the second coil 32 is formed by a plurality of coil layers 54. For example, the second coil 32 has two coil layers 54. The two coil layers 54 are mounted on the other axial side of the core 26 in an axially overlapping manner.

[0024] Each coil layer 54 has multiple segment conductors 60. Each segment conductor 60 of each coil layer 54 functions as a coil wound around the teeth portion 26A. In each coil layer 54, multiple segment conductors 60 are stacked in two stages in the axial direction. The segment conductors 60 of each coil layer 54 are connected in a predetermined manner. The coil composed of multiple segment conductors 60 is in the form of a distributed winding wound across multiple teeth portion 26A. Alternatively, the coil composed of multiple segment conductors 60 may be in the form of a concentrated winding wound around each tooth portion 26A.

[0025] The first frame 21 comprises a disc portion 21A and a peripheral wall portion 21B. The disc portion 21A is formed in a disc shape with its thickness oriented axially. The disc portion 21A extends radially outward from the center of the first frame 21. The peripheral wall portion 21B is formed on the outer periphery of the disc portion 21A and extends axially in the other direction from the outer periphery of the disc portion 21A. The disc portion 21A is an example of a "radial wall portion" according to the technology of this disclosure. The peripheral wall portion 21B is an example of an "axial wall portion" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0026] The second frame 23 comprises a disc portion 23A and a peripheral wall portion 23B. The disc portion 23A is formed in a disc shape with the axial direction as the thickness direction. The peripheral wall portion 23B is formed on the outer periphery of the disc portion 23A and extends from the outer periphery of the disc portion 23A toward one side in the axial direction. The disc portion 23A is an example of a "radial wall portion" according to the technology of this disclosure. The peripheral wall portion 23B is an example of an "axial wall portion" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0027] Through holes extending axially are formed in the centers of the disc portions 21A and 23A, and bearings 20 are fixed to the inner circumference of each through hole. The rotation axis 22 of the rotor 12 is rotatably supported by each bearing 20.

[0028] Multiple (e.g., eight) insertion holes 21C are formed in the peripheral wall portion 21B of the first frame 21, and multiple (e.g., eight) insertion holes 23C are formed in the peripheral wall portion 23B of the second frame 23. The multiple insertion holes 21C are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. Similarly, the multiple insertion holes 23C are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. Bolts 50 are inserted into each insertion hole 21C and insertion hole 23C from the other side in the axial direction.

[0029] Multiple protrusions 21D are formed on the circumferential wall portion 21B of the first frame 21 on the other axial end. The multiple protrusions 21D project toward the other axial direction. The multiple protrusions 21D are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. Each protrusion 21D is positioned in the center of a pair of circumferentially adjacent insertion holes 21C.

[0030] Multiple protrusions 23D are formed on one axial end of the peripheral wall portion 23B of the second frame 23. The multiple protrusions 23D project toward one axial direction. The multiple protrusions 23D are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction. Each protrusion 23D is positioned in the center of a pair of circumferentially adjacent insertion holes 23C.

[0031] The multiple protrusions 23D are positioned at a 90° offset in the circumferential direction from the multiple protrusions 21D. The protrusions 21D of the first frame 21 and the protrusions 23D of the second frame 23 are fitted into the notches 26F of the core 26, thereby preventing the core 26 from rotating relative to the first frame 21 and the second frame 23.

[0032] A bolt 50 is inserted into the insertion hole 21C and the insertion hole 23C from the other axial side, and a nut 56 is screwed onto the bolt 50 from the one axial side. In this way, the core 26 is fixed to the first frame 21 and the second frame 23 with the outer flange portion 26C of the core 26 sandwiched between the peripheral wall portion 21B of the first frame 21 and the peripheral wall portion 23B of the second frame 23. In other words, the stator 14 is fixed to the first frame 21 and the second frame 23. The first frame 21 and the second frame 23 form a case 16 that houses the rotor 12 and the stator 14.

[0033] As shown in Figure 3, the first opposing surface 26D of the teeth portion 26A has a teeth portion-side inclined surface 26D1 that inclins radially outward towards the other axial side. Similarly, the second opposing surface 26E of the teeth portion 26A has a teeth portion-side inclined surface 26E1 that inclins radially outward towards one axial side. The radially inner end of the first opposing surface 26D is formed as a teeth portion-side vertical surface 26D2 that is perpendicular to the axial direction. Similarly, the radially inner end of the second opposing surface 26E is formed as a teeth portion-side vertical surface 26E2 that is perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0034] Furthermore, the other axial side surface of the first magnet 18 has a magnet-side inclined surface 18A1 that is inclined in the same direction as the teeth-side inclined surface 26D1. Similarly, the one axial side surface of the second magnet 19 has a magnet-side inclined surface 19A1 that is inclined in the same direction as the teeth-side inclined surface 26E1. The radially inner end of the other axial side surface of the first magnet 18 is formed as a magnet-side vertical surface 18A2 that is perpendicular to the axial direction. Similarly, the radially inner end of the one axial side surface of the second magnet 19 is formed as a magnet-side vertical surface 19A2 that is perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0035] The inclined surface 26D1 on the teeth side and the inclined surface 18A1 on the magnet side are opposite each other in the axial direction, and the inclined surface 26E1 on the teeth side and the inclined surface 19A1 on the magnet side are opposite each other in the axial direction. Also, the vertical surface 26D2 on the teeth side and the vertical surface 18A2 on the magnet side are opposite each other in the axial direction, and the vertical surface 26E2 on the teeth side and the vertical surface 19A2 on the magnet side are opposite each other in the axial direction.

[0036] Next, the cooling structure applied to the motor 10 will be described.

[0037] As shown in Figure 4, the first frame 21 has a plurality of first refrigerant ports 71 and a plurality of second refrigerant ports 72. The plurality of first refrigerant ports 71 are formed in the disc portion 21A. The number of the plurality of first refrigerant ports 71 can be any number, as long as it is two or more. The plurality of first refrigerant ports 71 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. Each first refrigerant port 71 penetrates in the axial direction. The second refrigerant ports 72 are formed in the circumferential wall portion 21B. The plurality of second refrigerant ports 72 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. Each second refrigerant port 72 penetrates in the radial direction. The plurality of second refrigerant ports 72 communicate with the plurality of first refrigerant ports 71 through the inside of the case 16. Each first refrigerant port 71 is located radially inward relative to the first magnet 18, and each second refrigerant port 72 is located radially outward relative to the first magnet 18.

[0038] As an example, the number of multiple first refrigerant ports 71 and the number of multiple second refrigerant ports 72 are set to the same number. Each first refrigerant port 71 and each second refrigerant port 72 corresponding to each first refrigerant port 71 are located on the same plane (i.e., the cross-section shown in Figure 4) obtained by cutting the first frame 21 along the axial and radial directions. In other words, each first refrigerant port 71 and each second refrigerant port 72 corresponding to each first refrigerant port 71 are formed at the same position in the circumferential direction. The cross-sectional shape of the first refrigerant port 71 when viewed from the axial direction may be any shape, such as circular or square. Similarly, the cross-sectional shape of the second refrigerant port 72 when viewed from the radial direction may be any shape, such as circular or square. Note that the number of multiple first refrigerant ports 71 and the number of multiple second refrigerant ports 72 may be set to different numbers. Also, each first refrigerant port 71 may be offset in the circumferential direction from each second refrigerant port 72.

[0039] The first support member 24 has a central part 24A, a support part 24B, and a connecting part 24C. The central part 24A is formed in a cylindrical shape at the center of the first support member 24. The rotating shaft 22 is press-fitted into the central part 24A, thereby fixing the first support member 24 to the rotating shaft 22. The support part 24B is located radially outward from the central part 24A. The first magnet 18 is supported on the other axial side surface of the support part 24B. The connecting part 24C connects the central part 24A and the support part 24B.

[0040] Multiple fins 73 are formed on the connecting portion 24C. The multiple fins 73 are arranged in the circumferential direction and extend radially around the rotation axis 22 (see Figure 5). The multiple fins 73 connect the central part 24A and the support portion 24B. That is, the multiple fins 73 are formed as the connecting portion 24C. The multiple fins 73 are located radially inward relative to the support portion 24B. The multiple fins 73 are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A1 from one of the first refrigerant port 71 and the second refrigerant port 72 to the other as the rotor 12 rotates. The multiple fins 73 form, for example, a sirocco fan. Figure 4 shows an example in which the multiple fins 73 are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A1 from the first refrigerant port 71 to the second refrigerant port 72 as the rotor 12 rotates. Alternatively, the multiple fins 73 may be configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A1 from the second refrigerant port 72 to the first refrigerant port 71 as the rotor 12 rotates. Refrigerant A1 may be a gas or a liquid.

[0041] Each fin 73 is inclined toward the opposite side of the stator 14 (i.e., one side in the axial direction) as it extends radially outward. Furthermore, each fin 73 is formed in an arc shape that is convex in the circumferential direction relative to the radial direction when viewed in the axial direction (see Figure 5).

[0042] More specifically, the first coil 31 has an inner circumferential portion 31A located radially inward and an outer circumferential portion 31B located radially outward.

[0043] Each fin 73 has an axial overlapping portion 73A that axially overlaps at least a part of the inner circumferential portion 31A in the axial direction. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the axial overlapping portion 73A axially overlaps a part of the inner circumferential portion 31A in the axial direction, but the axial overlapping portion 73A may axially overlap the entire inner circumferential portion 31A in the axial direction. In particular, the area radially inward of the inner circumferential portion 31A of the first coil 31 is dead space, so each fin 73 may be extended toward the other axial side such that each fin 73 enters this dead space. The extension length of each fin 73 toward the other axial side may be set according to the cooling specifications required for the first coil 31.

[0044] Further, each fin 73 has a radial overlapping portion 73B that radially overlaps at least a part of the inner circumferential portion 31A in the radial direction. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the radial overlapping portion 73B radially overlaps a part of the inner circumferential portion 31A in the radial direction, but the radial overlapping portion 73B may radially overlap the entire inner circumferential portion 31A in the radial direction.

[0045] Each first refrigerant port 71 has a radial overlapping portion 71A that radially overlaps at least a part of the fin 73 in the radial direction. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the radial overlapping portion 71A radially overlaps a part of the fin 73 in the radial direction, but the radial overlapping portion 71A may radially overlap the entire fin 73 in the radial direction.

[0046] Further, each first refrigerant port 71 has a radial overlapping portion 71B that radially overlaps at least a part of the inner circumferential portion 31A in the radial direction. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the radial overlapping portion 71B radially overlaps a part of the inner circumferential portion 31A in the radial direction, but the radial overlapping portion 71B may radially overlap the entire inner circumferential portion 31A in the radial direction.

[0047] Each second refrigerant port 72 has an axial overlap portion 72A that axially overlaps at least part of the outer peripheral portion 31B in the axial direction. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the axial overlap portion 72A axially overlaps a part of the outer peripheral portion 31B in the axial direction, but the axial overlap portion 72A may axially overlap the entire outer peripheral portion 31B in the axial direction.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 6, the second frame 23 includes a plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 and a plurality of second refrigerant ports 82. The plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 are formed in the disc portion 23A. The number of the plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 may be any number as long as it is 2 or more. The plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. Each first refrigerant port 81 penetrates in the axial direction. The second refrigerant ports 82 are formed in the peripheral wall portion 23B. The plurality of second refrigerant ports 82 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. Each second refrigerant port 82 penetrates in the radial direction. The plurality of second refrigerant ports 82 communicate with the plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 through the interior of the case 16. Each first refrigerant port 81 is located radially inward with respect to the second magnet 19, and each second refrigerant port 82 is located radially outward with respect to the second magnet 19.

[0049] As an example, the number of the plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 and the number of the plurality of second refrigerant ports 82 are set to be equal. Each first refrigerant port 81 and each corresponding second refrigerant port 82 corresponding to the first refrigerant port 81 are located on the same plane obtained by cutting the second frame 23 along the axial direction and the radial direction (i.e., the cross-section shown in FIG. 6). In other words, each first refrigerant port 81 and each second refrigerant port 82 corresponding to the first refrigerant port 81 are formed at the same position in the circumferential direction. The cross-sectional shape of the first refrigerant port 81 when viewed from the axial direction may be any shape such as a circle or a quadrangle. Similarly, the cross-sectional shape of the second refrigerant port 82 when viewed from the radial direction may be any shape such as a circle or a quadrangle. Note that the number of the plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 and the number of the plurality of second refrigerant ports 82 may be set to different numbers. Further, each first refrigerant port 81 may be displaced in the circumferential direction relative to each second refrigerant port 82.

[0050] The second support member 25 has a central part 25A, a support part 25B, and a connecting part 25C. The central part 25A is formed in a cylindrical shape at the center of the second support member 25. The rotating shaft 22 is press-fitted into the central part 25A, thereby fixing the second support member 25 to the rotating shaft 22. The support part 25B is located radially outward from the central part 25A. The second magnet 19 is supported on one axial side surface of the support part 25B. The connecting part 25C connects the central part 25A and the support part 25B.

[0051] Multiple fins 83 are formed on the connecting portion 25C. The multiple fins 83 are arranged in the circumferential direction and extend radially around the rotation axis 22 (see Figure 7). The multiple fins 83 connect the central part 25A and the support portion 25B. That is, the multiple fins 83 are formed as the connecting portion 25C. The multiple fins 83 are located radially inward relative to the support portion 25B. The multiple fins 83 are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A2 from one of the first refrigerant port 81 and the second refrigerant port 82 to the other as the rotor 12 rotates. The multiple fins 83 form, for example, a sirocco fan. Figure 6 shows an example in which the multiple fins 83 are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A2 from the first refrigerant port 81 to the second refrigerant port 82 as the rotor 12 rotates. Alternatively, the multiple fins 83 may be configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A2 from the second refrigerant port 82 to the first refrigerant port 81 as the rotor 12 rotates. Refrigerant A2 may be a gas or a liquid.

[0052] Each fin 83 is inclined toward the opposite side of the stator 14 (i.e., the other axial direction) as it extends radially outward. Furthermore, each fin 83 is formed in an arc shape that is convex in the circumferential direction relative to the radial direction when viewed in the axial direction (see Figure 7).

[0053] More specifically, the second coil 32 has an inner circumferential portion 32A located radially inward and an outer circumferential portion 32B located radially outward.

[0054] Each fin 83 has an axial overlap portion 83A that overlaps axially with at least a portion of the inner circumference 32A in the axial direction. Figure 6 shows an example in which the axial overlap portion 83A overlaps axially with a portion of the inner circumference 32A in the axial direction, but the axial overlap portion 83A may overlap axially with the entire inner circumference 32A in the axial direction. In particular, the area radially inward from the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 is dead space, so each fin 83 may be extended axially to one side so that each fin 83 fits into this dead space. The length of the extension of each fin 83 axially to one side may be set according to the cooling specifications required for the second coil 32.

[0055] Furthermore, each fin 83 has a radial overlap portion 83B that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the inner circumference 32A in the radial direction. Figure 6 shows an example in which the radial overlap portion 83B radially overlaps with a portion of the inner circumference 32A in the radial direction, but the radial overlap portion 83B may also radially overlap with the entire inner circumference 32A in the radial direction.

[0056] Each first refrigerant port 81 has a radial overlap portion 81A that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the fins 83 in the radial direction. Figure 6 shows an example in which the radial overlap portion 81A radially overlaps with a portion of the fins 83 in the radial direction, but the radial overlap portion 81A may also radially overlap with the entire fins 83 in the radial direction.

[0057] Furthermore, each first refrigerant port 81 has a radial overlap portion 81B that radially overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumference 32A in the radial direction. Figure 6 shows an example in which the radial overlap portion 81B radially overlaps with a part of the inner circumference 32A in the radial direction, but the radial overlap portion 81B may also radially overlap with the entire inner circumference 32A in the radial direction.

[0058] Each second refrigerant port 82 has an axial overlap portion 82A that overlaps axially with at least a portion of the outer peripheral portion 32B in the axial direction. Figure 6 shows an example in which the axial overlap portion 82A overlaps axially with a portion of the outer peripheral portion 32B in the axial direction, but the axial overlap portion 82A may overlap axially with the entire outer peripheral portion 32B in the axial direction.

[0059] As shown in Figure 8, a radially extending first refrigerant passage 100 is formed between the core 26 and the first coil 31. Specifically, a circumferential gap 102 is formed between the side surface 101A of the portion of the tooth portion 26A that is on one axial side of the inner flange portion 26B and the outer flange portion 26C (hereinafter referred to as the "first tooth portion 101") and the side surface 60A of the segment conductor 60 that forms the first coil 31, and the first refrigerant passage 100 is formed by this gap 102. Each segment conductor 60 has sufficient rigidity to secure the gap 102.

[0060] The side surface 101A of the first teeth portion 101 faces the first coil 31 in the circumferential direction. The side surface 101A of the first teeth portion 101 is an example of an "opposing surface" according to the technology of this disclosure. A plurality of grooves 103 extending in the radial direction are formed on the side surface 101A of the first teeth portion 101. The plurality of grooves 103 are formed aligned in the axial direction.

[0061] Although the first teeth portion 101 does not have an insulator attached, an insulator may be attached to the first teeth portion 101. Furthermore, a first refrigerant passage 100 may be formed between the insulator and the first coil 31. In addition, a groove 103 may be formed on the side surface of the insulator.

[0062] Furthermore, the first coil 31 has a plurality of coil layers 54 (two as an example) arranged in the axial direction, and each coil layer 54 has a plurality of conductor layers 104 (two as an example) arranged in the axial direction. Each conductor layer 104 is formed by a plurality of segment conductors 60. A second refrigerant passage 105 extending in the radial direction is formed between the plurality of conductor layers 104. Specifically, an axial gap 106 is formed between the plurality of conductor layers 104, and this gap 106 forms the second refrigerant passage 105.

[0063] As shown in Figure 9, a radially extending first refrigerant passage 110 is formed between the core 26 and the second coil 32. Specifically, a circumferential gap 112 is formed between the side surface 111A of the portion of the tooth portion 26A that is on the axial side other than the inner flange portion 26B and the outer flange portion 26C (hereinafter referred to as the "second tooth portion 111") and the side surface 60A of the segment conductor 60 that forms the second coil 32, and the first refrigerant passage 110 is formed by this gap 112. Each segment conductor 60 has sufficient rigidity to secure the gap 112.

[0064] The side surface 111A of the second teeth portion 111 faces the second coil 32 in the circumferential direction. The side surface 111A of the second teeth portion 111 is an example of an "opposing surface" according to the technology of this disclosure. A plurality of grooves 113 extending in the radial direction are formed on the side surface 111A of the second teeth portion 111. The plurality of grooves 113 are formed aligned in the axial direction.

[0065] Although the second teeth portion 111 does not currently have an insulator attached, an insulator may be attached to the second teeth portion 111. Furthermore, a first refrigerant passage 110 may be formed between the insulator and the second coil 32. In addition, a groove 113 may be formed on the side surface of the insulator.

[0066] Furthermore, the second coil 32 has a plurality of coil layers 54 (for example, two) arranged in the axial direction, and each coil layer 54 has a plurality of conductor layers 114 (for example, two) arranged in the axial direction. Each conductor layer 114 is formed by a plurality of segment conductors 60. A second refrigerant passage 115 extending in the radial direction is formed between the plurality of conductor layers 114. Specifically, an axial gap 116 is formed between the plurality of conductor layers 114, and this gap 116 forms the second refrigerant passage 115.

[0067] As shown in Figure 10, in the motor 10 according to this embodiment, when the rotor 12 rotates, a flow of refrigerant A1 from the first refrigerant port 71 to the second refrigerant port 72 is formed by the plurality of fins 73 formed on the first support member 24. At this time, the refrigerant A1 flows through the first refrigerant passage 100 formed between the core 26 (first teeth portion 101) and the first coil 31, and also flows through the second refrigerant passage 105 formed between the conductive layers 104 of the first coil 31 (see Figure 8).

[0068] Similarly, as the rotor 12 rotates, the multiple fins 83 formed on the second support member 25 create a flow of refrigerant A2 from the first refrigerant port 81 to the second refrigerant port 82. At this time, the refrigerant A2 flows through the first refrigerant passage 110 formed between the core 26 (second teeth portion 111) and the second coil 32, as well as through the second refrigerant passage 115 formed between the conductive layers 114 of the second coil 32 (see Figure 9).

[0069] Furthermore, the plurality of fins 73 formed on the first support member 24 and the plurality of fins 83 formed on the second support member 25 each form a sirocco fan. However, the plurality of fins 73 formed on the first support member 24 may form an axial flow fan that sends refrigerant A1 to the other axial side, and the plurality of fins 83 formed on the second support member 25 may form an axial flow fan that sends refrigerant A2 to one axial side. In this case, the refrigerant A1 flowing to the other axial side by the plurality of fins 73 formed on the first support member 24 and the refrigerant A2 flowing to one axial side by the plurality of fins 83 formed on the second support member 25 may collide, forming flows of refrigerants A1 and C2 that flow radially outward, respectively.

[0070] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0071] As described in detail above, in the motor 10 according to this embodiment, the plurality of fins 73 are located radially inward of the rotor 12 relative to the first support portion 24B. Therefore, as the rotor 12 rotates, when a flow of refrigerant A1 from the first refrigerant port 71 to the second refrigerant port 72 is formed by the plurality of fins 73, the refrigerant A1 can be directly applied to the first coil 31 attached to the core 26 which is axially opposite to the first magnet 18 supported by the first support portion 24B. As a result, the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31 can be improved compared to the conventional configuration (for example, the configuration described in Patent Document 1).

[0072] Similarly, in the motor 10 according to this embodiment, the plurality of fins 83 are located radially inward of the rotor 12 relative to the second support portion 25B. Therefore, as the rotor 12 rotates, when the plurality of fins 83 form a flow of refrigerant A2 from the first refrigerant port 81 to the second refrigerant port 82, the refrigerant A2 can be directly applied to the second coil 32 attached to the core 26 which is axially opposite to the second magnet 19 supported by the second support portion 25B. As a result, the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32 can be improved compared to the conventional configuration (for example, the configuration described in Patent Document 1).

[0073] Furthermore, the multiple fins 73 are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A1 from the first refrigerant port 71 to the second refrigerant port 72 as the rotor 12 rotates. Here, the first refrigerant port 71 is located radially inward relative to the first magnet 18, and the second refrigerant port 72 is located radially outward relative to the first magnet 18. This allows refrigerant A1 to flow from the high-temperature inner circumference 31A to the low-temperature outer circumference 31B relative to the first coil 31. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31 compared to the case where refrigerant A1 flows from the low-temperature outer circumference 31B to the high-temperature inner circumference 31A relative to the first coil 31.

[0074] Similarly, the multiple fins 83 are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant A2 from the first refrigerant port 81 to the second refrigerant port 82 as the rotor 12 rotates. Here, the first refrigerant port 81 is located radially inward relative to the second magnet 19, and the second refrigerant port 82 is located radially outward relative to the second magnet 19. This allows refrigerant A2 to flow from the high-temperature inner circumference 32A to the low-temperature outer circumference 32B relative to the second coil 32. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32 compared to the case where refrigerant A2 flows from the low-temperature outer circumference 32B to the high-temperature inner circumference 32A relative to the second coil 32.

[0075] Furthermore, each fin 73 is inclined toward the opposite side of the stator 14 (i.e., one side in the axial direction) as it extends radially outward from the rotor 12. This allows for a flow of refrigerant A1 that flows from the first refrigerant port 71 toward the other side in the axial direction before flowing radially outward to the second refrigerant port 72 as the rotor 12 rotates.

[0076] Similarly, each fin 83 is inclined toward the opposite side of the stator 14 (i.e., the other axial side) as it extends radially outward from the rotor 12. This allows for a flow of refrigerant A2 that flows from the first refrigerant port 81 toward one axial side before flowing radially outward to the second refrigerant port 82 as the rotor 12 rotates.

[0077] Furthermore, each fin 73 has an axial overlap portion 73A that overlaps axially with at least a part of the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31 in the axial direction. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31 compared to the case where each fin 73 does not overlap axially with the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31 (i.e., is offset in the axial direction).

[0078] Similarly, each fin 83 has an axial overlap portion 83A that axially overlaps with at least a portion of the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 in the axial direction. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32 compared to the case where each fin 83 does not axially overlap with the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 (i.e., is offset in the axial direction).

[0079] Furthermore, each fin 73 has a radial overlap portion 73B that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31 compared to the case where each fin 73 does not radially overlap with the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31 (i.e., is radially offset).

[0080] Similarly, each fin 83 has a radial overlap portion 83B that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32 compared to the case where each fin 83 does not radially overlap with the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 (i.e., is radially offset).

[0081] Furthermore, the first support member 24 has a connecting portion 24C that connects the central part 24A and the support portion 24B, and the multiple fins 73 are formed as the connecting portion 24C. Therefore, compared to the case where the multiple fins 73 are formed separately from the connecting portion 24C, the first support member 24, and consequently the rotor 12, can be made smaller. In addition, because the multiple fins 73 are formed as the connecting portion 24C, the space between the multiple fins 73 is formed as a weight-reducing portion, so the first support member 24, and consequently the motor 10, can be made lighter.

[0082] Similarly, the second support member 25 has a connecting portion 25C that connects the central portion 25A and the support portion 25B, and the multiple fins 83 are formed as the connecting portion 25C. Therefore, the second support member 25, and consequently the rotor 12, can be made smaller compared to the case where the multiple fins 83 are formed separately from the connecting portion 25C. In addition, since the multiple fins 83 are formed as the connecting portion 25C, the space between the multiple fins 83 is formed as a weight-reducing portion, so the second support member 25, and consequently the motor 10, can be made lighter.

[0083] Furthermore, each first refrigerant port 71 and each second refrigerant port 72 corresponding to each first refrigerant port 71 are located on the same plane (i.e., the cross-section shown in Figure 4) obtained by cutting the first frame 21 along the axial and radial directions. This allows the refrigerant A1 to flow smoothly from the first refrigerant port 71 to the second refrigerant port 72, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0084] Similarly, each first refrigerant port 81 and each second refrigerant port 82 corresponding to each first refrigerant port 81 are located on the same plane (i.e., the cross-section shown in Figure 6) obtained by cutting the second frame 23 along the axial and radial directions. This allows refrigerant A2 to flow smoothly from the first refrigerant port 81 to the second refrigerant port 82, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0085] Furthermore, the first frame 21 has a plurality of first refrigerant ports 71 and a plurality of second refrigerant ports 72 arranged in the circumferential direction. Therefore, a flow of refrigerant A1 can be formed that flows from the first refrigerant ports 71 to the second refrigerant ports 72 in the circumferential direction, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0086] Similarly, the second frame 23 has a plurality of first refrigerant ports 81 and a plurality of second refrigerant ports 82 arranged in the circumferential direction. Therefore, a flow of refrigerant A2 can be formed that flows from the first refrigerant ports 81 to the second refrigerant ports 82 in the circumferential direction, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0087] Furthermore, each first refrigerant port 71 has a radial overlap portion 71A that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the fins 73 in the radial direction. Therefore, compared to the case where each first refrigerant port 71 does not radially overlap with the fins 73 (i.e., is radially offset), the refrigerant A1 drawn in from the first refrigerant port 71 can be supplied to the fins 73 more efficiently. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0088] Similarly, each first refrigerant port 81 has a radial overlap portion 81A that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the fins 83 in the radial direction. Therefore, compared to the case where each first refrigerant port 81 does not radially overlap with the fins 83 (i.e., is radially offset), the refrigerant A2 drawn in from the first refrigerant port 81 can be supplied to the fins 83 more efficiently. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0089] Furthermore, each first refrigerant port 71 has a radial overlap portion 71B that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31 in the radial direction. Therefore, compared to the case where each first refrigerant port 71 does not radially overlap with the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31 (i.e., is radially offset), the refrigerant A1 drawn in from the first refrigerant port 71 can be efficiently supplied to the first coil 31 through the fins 73. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0090] Similarly, each first refrigerant port 81 has a radial overlap portion 81B that radially overlaps with at least a portion of the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 in the radial direction. Therefore, compared to the case where each first refrigerant port 81 does not radially overlap with the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 (i.e., is radially offset), the refrigerant A2 drawn in from the first refrigerant port 81 can be efficiently supplied to the second coil 32 through the fins 83. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0091] Furthermore, each second refrigerant port 72 has an axial overlap portion 72A that overlaps axially with at least a portion of the outer periphery 31B of the first coil 31 in the axial direction. Therefore, compared to the case where each second refrigerant port 72 does not overlap axially with the outer periphery 31B of the first coil 31 (i.e., is offset in the axial direction), the refrigerant A1 directed toward the second refrigerant port 72 can be supplied to the first coil 31 more efficiently. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0092] Similarly, each second refrigerant port 82 has an axial overlap portion 82A that axially overlaps with at least a portion of the outer periphery 32B of the second coil 32 in the axial direction. Therefore, compared to the case where each second refrigerant port 82 does not axially overlap with the outer periphery 32B of the second coil 32 (i.e., is offset in the axial direction), the refrigerant A directed toward the second refrigerant port 82 can be supplied to the second coil 32 more efficiently. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0093] Furthermore, a radially extending first refrigerant passage 100 is formed between the core 26 (first teeth portion 101) and the first coil 31. Therefore, the refrigerant A1 flowing through the first refrigerant passage 100 can directly cool the core 26 and the first coil 31. This improves the cooling efficiency of the core 26 and the first coil 31.

[0094] Similarly, a radially extending first refrigerant passage 110 is formed between the core 26 (second teeth portion 111) and the second coil 32. Therefore, the refrigerant A2 flowing through the first refrigerant passage 110 can directly cool the core 26 and the second coil 32. This improves the cooling efficiency of the core 26 and the second coil 32.

[0095] Furthermore, the first coil 31 has a plurality of conductive layers 104 arranged in the axial direction, and a second refrigerant passage 105 extending in the radial direction is formed between the plurality of conductive layers 104. Therefore, the first coil 31 (specifically, the plurality of conductive layers 104) can be directly cooled by the refrigerant A1 flowing through the second refrigerant passage 105. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0096] Similarly, the second coil 32 has a plurality of conductor layers 114 arranged in the axial direction, and a second refrigerant passage 115 extending in the radial direction is formed between the plurality of conductor layers 114. Therefore, the second coil 32 (specifically, the plurality of conductor layers 114) can be directly cooled by the refrigerant A2 flowing through the second refrigerant passage 115. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0097] Furthermore, a plurality of radially extending grooves 103 are formed on the side surface 101A of the first teeth portion 101. Therefore, the first teeth portion 101 can be directly cooled by the coolant A1 flowing through the grooves 103. This improves the cooling efficiency of the first teeth portion 101.

[0098] Similarly, a plurality of radially extending grooves 113 are formed on the side surface 111A of the second tooth portion 111. Therefore, the second tooth portion 111 can be directly cooled by the coolant A2 flowing through the grooves 113. This improves the cooling efficiency of the second tooth portion 111.

[0099] Furthermore, since multiple fins 73 are formed on the first support member 24 and multiple fins 83 are formed on the second support member 25, the first coil 31 and the second coil 32 can be cooled by the flow of refrigerant A1 formed by the multiple fins 73 and the flow of refrigerant A formed by the multiple fins 83, respectively. As a result, the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31 and the second coil 32 can be improved compared to when the first coil 31 and the second coil 32 are cooled by the flow of refrigerant A formed by either the multiple fins 73 formed on the first support member 24 or the multiple fins 83 formed on the second support member 25.

[0100] Next, a modified example of this embodiment will be described.

[0101] In the above embodiment, the first opposing surface 26D of the teeth portion 26A has a teeth portion side inclined surface 26D1 that is inclined radially outward toward the other side in the axial direction. However, as shown in Figure 11, the first opposing surface 26D of the teeth portion 26A may be formed perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0102] Similarly, the second opposing surface 26E of the teeth portion 26A has a teeth portion side inclined surface 26E1 that is inclined toward one side in the axial direction as it extends radially outward, but as shown in Figure 11, the second opposing surface 26E of the teeth portion 26A may be formed perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0103] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, the other axial surface 18A of the first magnet 18 and the axial surface 19A of the second magnet 19 may also be formed perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0104] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12, when the first opposing surface 26D of the teeth portion 26A is formed perpendicular to the axial direction, each fin 73 may be extended axially to the other side so that each fin 73 fits into the dead space formed radially inward from the inner circumference portion 31A of the first coil 31. Doing so can improve the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0105] Similarly, as shown in Figure 12, when the second opposing surface 26E of the teeth portion 26A is formed perpendicular to the axial direction, each fin 83 may be extended to one side in the axial direction so that each fin 83 fits into the dead space formed radially inward from the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32. Doing so can improve the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0106] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each fin 73 has a radial overlap portion 73B that radially overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumference 31A in the radial direction. However, as shown in Figure 13, each fin 73 may be located radially inward relative to the inner circumference 31A. In this case as well, the refrigerant A1 can be flowed from the radially inward to the radially outward relative to the first coil 31, similar to the above embodiment, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0107] Similarly, in the above embodiment, each fin 83 has a radial overlap portion 83B that radially overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumference 32A in the radial direction. However, as shown in Figure 13, each fin 83 may be located radially inward relative to the inner circumference 32A. In this case as well, the refrigerant A2 can be flowed from the radially inward to the radially outward direction to the second coil 32, similar to the above embodiment, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0108] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each first refrigerant port 71 has a radial overlap portion 71A that radially overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumference 31A in the radial direction. However, as shown in Figure 13, each first refrigerant port 71 may be located radially inward relative to the inner circumference 31A. In this case as well, the refrigerant A1 can be flowed from the radially inward to the radially outward relative to the first coil 31, similar to the above embodiment, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31.

[0109] Similarly, in the above embodiment, each first refrigerant port 81 has a radially overlapping portion 81A that radially overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumference 32A in the radial direction. However, as shown in Figure 13, each first refrigerant port 81 may be located radially inward relative to the inner circumference 32A. In this case as well, the refrigerant A2 can be flowed from the radially inward to the radially outward direction to the second coil 32, similar to the above embodiment, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the second coil 32.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the plurality of fins 73 and the plurality of fins 83 each form a sirocco fan, but as shown in Figure 14, the plurality of fins 73 may form an axial flow fan that sends refrigerant A to the other axial side, and similarly, the plurality of fins 83 may also form an axial flow fan that sends refrigerant A to the other axial side.

[0111] Furthermore, a flow of refrigerant A flowing in the other axial direction may be formed by the multiple fins 73 and the multiple fins 83. Alternatively, refrigerant A may flow from the first refrigerant port 71 to the first refrigerant port 81. With this configuration, the inner circumference 31A of the first coil 31 and the inner circumference 32A of the second coil 32 can be cooled intensively. In the example shown in Figure 14, the first refrigerant port 71 is an example of the "first refrigerant port" according to the technology of this disclosure, and the first refrigerant port 81 is an example of the "second refrigerant port" according to the technology of this disclosure.

[0112] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 14, as refrigerant A flows from the first refrigerant port 71 to the first refrigerant port 81, refrigerant A may be drawn in from the second refrigerant port 72 and the second refrigerant port 82, causing refrigerant A to flow along the first coil 31 and the second coil 32. In this way, the cooling efficiency of the first coil 31 and the second coil 32 can be improved.

[0113] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15, the multiple fins 73 may form a sirocco fan, and the multiple fins 83 may form an axial flow fan that sends refrigerant A2 in one axial direction. The multiple fins 73 may form a flow of refrigerant A1 from the first refrigerant port 71 to the second refrigerant port 72, and the multiple fins 83 may form a flow of refrigerant A2 from the second refrigerant port 82 to the first refrigerant port 81.

[0114] Furthermore, although the motor 10 is configured as a double axial gap motor in the above embodiment, it may also be configured as a single axial gap motor, in which either the configuration on one axial side or the configuration on the other axial side is omitted.

[0115] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 16, the motor 10 may also be configured with multiple sets of rotors 12 and stators 14 arranged in the axial direction.

[0116] Furthermore, among the above-mentioned variations, any combination of compatible variations may be combined as appropriate.

[0117] Although one embodiment of the technology of this disclosure has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above, and it is of course possible to implement it in various modified forms without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0118] The following are additional notes regarding the technology of the present disclosure. (Note 1) An axial gap motor (10) comprising: a stator (14); a rotor (12) facing the stator via a gap in the axial direction of the stator; and a case (16) housing the stator and the rotor, wherein the stator has a core (26) and a coil (31) attached to the core; the rotor has a magnet (18) facing the core in the axial direction of the stator and a support member (24) supporting the magnet; the case has a first refrigerant port (71) and a second refrigerant port (72) communicating with the first refrigerant port through the inside of the case; and the support member has a support portion (24B) supporting the magnet and a fin (73) located radially inward of the rotor relative to the support portion. (Note 2) The axial gap motor according to Note 1, wherein the fins are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant from one of the first refrigerant port and the second refrigerant port to the other as the rotor rotates. (Note 3) The axial gap motor according to Note 1 or Note 2, wherein the fins are inclined toward the opposite side of the stator as they extend radially outward from the rotor. (Note 4) The axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 3, wherein the coil has an inner circumference portion (31A) located radially inward from the stator and an outer circumference portion (31B) located radially outward from the stator, and the fins have an axial overlap portion (73A) that overlaps at least a part of the inner circumference portion in the axial direction of the stator with the axial overlap portion (73A) of the stator. (Note 5) The axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 4, wherein the coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the fin has a radial overlap portion (73B) that overlaps at least a part of the inner circumferential portion in the radial direction of the stator with the radial overlap portion (73B) of the stator.(Note 6) The coil has an inner circumference located radially inside the stator and an outer circumference located radially outside the stator, and the fins are located radially inside the rotor relative to the inner circumference, as described in any one of Notes 1 to 4. (Note 7) The support member has a connecting portion (24C) that connects the central part (24A) of the support member to the support portion, and the fins are formed as the connecting portion, as described in any one of Notes 1 to 6. (Note 8) The first refrigerant port is located radially inside the case relative to the magnet, the second refrigerant port is located radially outside the case relative to the magnet, and the fins are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant from the first refrigerant port to the second refrigerant port as the rotor rotates, as described in any one of Notes 1 to 7. (Note 9) The axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 8, wherein the first refrigerant port and the second refrigerant port are located on the same plane when the case is cut along the axial and radial directions. (Note 10) The axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 9, wherein the case has a plurality of first refrigerant ports arranged in the circumferential direction of the case and a plurality of second refrigerant ports arranged in the circumferential direction of the case. (Note 11) The axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 10, wherein the first refrigerant port penetrates the case in the axial direction and has a radial overlap portion (71A) that overlaps with at least a part of the fins in the radial direction of the rotor in the radial direction of the rotor. (Note 12) The coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inside the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outside the stator, and the first refrigerant port penetrates the case in the axial direction and has a radial overlap portion (71B) that overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumferential portion in the radial direction of the stator. The axial gap motor as described in any one of Notes 1 to 11.(Note 13) The coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the first refrigerant port is located radially inward of the rotor relative to the inner circumferential portion, as described in any one of Notes 1 to 11. (Note 14) The coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the second refrigerant port penetrates the case radially and has an axial overlap portion (72A) that overlaps with at least a part of the outer circumferential portion in the axial direction of the stator. (Note 15) An axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 14, wherein a first refrigerant passage (100) extending in the radial direction of the stator is formed between the core and the coil. (Note 16) An axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 15, wherein the coil has a plurality of conductor layers (104) arranged in the axial direction of the stator, and a second refrigerant passage (105) extending in the radial direction of the stator is formed between the plurality of conductor layers. (Note 17) An axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 16, wherein the core has a facing surface (101A) facing the coil, and a groove (103) extending in the radial direction of the stator is formed on the facing surface. (Note 18) The rotor comprises a pair of rotor portions (12A, 12B), the pair of rotor portions arranged on both sides of the stator in the axial direction, the axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 17. (Note 19) The case has a pair of frames (21, 23) facing each other in the axial direction of the case, each frame having a radial wall portion (21A, 23A) extending radially from the case, and an axial wall portion (21B, 23B) extending axially from the outer circumference of the radial wall portion, the radial wall portion having the first refrigerant port, and the axial wall portion having the second refrigerant port, the axial gap motor according to any one of Notes 1 to 18.(Note 20) The case has a pair of frames facing each other in the axial direction of the case, each frame has a radial wall portion extending radially of the case, the radial wall portion of one of the pair of frames has the first refrigerant port, and the radial wall portion of the other of the pair of frames has the second refrigerant port, as described in any one of Notes 1 to 18.

Claims

1. An axial gap motor (10) comprising: a stator (14); a rotor (12) facing the stator via a gap in the axial direction of the stator; and a case (16) housing the stator and the rotor, wherein the stator has a core (26) and a coil (31) attached to the core; the rotor has a magnet (18) facing the core in the axial direction of the stator and a support member (24) supporting the magnet; the case has a first refrigerant port (71) and a second refrigerant port (72) communicating with the first refrigerant port through the inside of the case; and the support member has a support portion (24B) supporting the magnet and a fin (73) located radially inward of the rotor relative to the support portion.

2. The axial gap motor according to claim 1, wherein the fins are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant from one of the first refrigerant port and the second refrigerant port to the other as the rotor rotates.

3. The axial gap motor according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the fins are inclined toward the opposite side from the stator as they extend radially outward from the rotor.

4. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the coil has an inner circumference (31A) located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumference (31B) located radially outward of the stator, and the fin has an axial overlap portion (73A) that overlaps at least a part of the inner circumference in the axial direction of the stator with the axial overlap portion (73A) in the axial direction of the stator.

5. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the fin has a radial overlap portion (73B) that overlaps at least a part of the inner circumferential portion in the radial direction of the stator with the radial overlap portion of the stator.

6. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the fins are located radially inward of the rotor relative to the inner circumferential portion.

7. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the support member has a connecting portion (24C) that connects the central part (24A) of the support member to the support portion, and the fin is formed as the connecting portion.

8. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first refrigerant port is located radially inward of the case relative to the magnet, the second refrigerant port is located radially outward of the case relative to the magnet, and the fins are configured to generate a flow of refrigerant from the first refrigerant port to the second refrigerant port as the rotor rotates.

9. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first refrigerant port and the second refrigerant port are located on the same plane when the case is cut along the axial and radial directions.

10. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the case comprises a plurality of first refrigerant ports arranged in the circumferential direction of the case, and a plurality of second refrigerant ports arranged in the circumferential direction of the case.

11. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first refrigerant port penetrates the case in the axial direction and has a radial overlap portion (71A) that overlaps with at least a portion of the fins in the radial direction of the rotor in the radial direction of the rotor.

12. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the first refrigerant port penetrates the case in the axial direction and has a radial overlap portion (71B) that overlaps with at least a part of the inner circumferential portion in the radial direction of the stator.

13. The coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the first refrigerant port is located radially inward of the rotor relative to the inner circumferential portion, the axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the coil has an inner circumferential portion located radially inward of the stator and an outer circumferential portion located radially outward of the stator, and the second refrigerant port penetrates the case radially and has an axial overlap portion (72A) that overlaps with at least a part of the outer circumferential portion in the axial direction of the stator.

15. An axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a first refrigerant passage (100) extending radially in the stator is formed between the core and the coil.

16. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the coil has a plurality of conductive layers (104) arranged in the axial direction of the stator, and a second coolant passage (105) extending in the radial direction of the stator is formed between the plurality of conductive layers.

17. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the core has a facing surface (101A) that faces the coil, and a groove (103) extending in the radial direction of the stator is formed on the facing surface.

18. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the rotor comprises a pair of rotor sections (12A, 12B), and the pair of rotor sections are arranged on both axial sides of the stator.

19. The case has a pair of frames (21, 23) facing each other in the axial direction of the case, each frame has a radial wall portion (21A, 23A) extending radially from the case, and an axial wall portion (21B, 23B) extending axially from the outer periphery of the radial wall portion, the radial wall portion has the first refrigerant port, and the axial wall portion has the second refrigerant port, the axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. The axial gap motor according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the case has a pair of frames facing each other in the axial direction of the case, each frame has a radial wall portion extending radially of the case, the radial wall portion of one of the pair of frames has the first refrigerant port, and the radial wall portion of the other of the pair of frames has the second refrigerant port.

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