Integral Output Arm Speed Reducer for Stable Steering Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing speed reducers in steering assisting devices face challenges in managing fastening forces of bolts, leading to instability in torque transmission to the steering mechanism, resulting in increased size, weight, and production complexity.
Innovation Solution
A speed reducer design where the output arm is formed integrally with the tubular case, extending radially outward, allowing stable torque transmission without enlarging the device's size or weight, and reducing production complexity by eliminating the need for a separate fixing flange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the output arm is fastened to the tubular case with bolts, then the output arm can be fixed to the tubular case, but it is difficult to manage the fastening forces of the bolts and the torque transmitted to the steering mechanism becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The output arm is formed integrally with the tubular case as a single piece, eliminating the bolt connection interface. This merging of components ensures that the torque transmitted from the speed-reducing mechanism unit to the output arm is stable and predictable, as there are no bolt fastening forces to vary or manage.
2Strength
If a fixing flange with bolt holes is provided on the tubular case, then the output arm can be fastened with bolts, but the speed reducer has a large size and large weight
Solution Approach 1:
The output arm and tubular case are combined into a single integral structure, eliminating the need for a separate fixing flange with bolt holes. This integration removes the additional material required for the flange, thereby reducing the overall weight of the speed reducer while maintaining the necessary structural strength.
3Strength
If a thick flange with bolt insertion holes and screw holes is provided on the tubular case, then the output arm can be fastened with bolts, but the amount of production work is increased
Solution Approach 1:
By forming the output arm integrally with the tubular case, the invention eliminates the need to machine thick flanges with multiple bolt insertion holes and screw holes. This integration significantly reduces the amount of production work, as the integral structure can be manufactured in fewer steps without requiring complex drilling and tapping operations.
4Reliability
If the output arm is formed integrally with the tubular case, then stable torque transmission is achieved without enlargement of size or weight, but the output arm must extend radially outward from the outer peripheral surface
Solution Approach 1:
The integral structure of the tubular case and output arm is designed with the output arm extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the tubular case. This segmentation of functions within the integral structure allows the output arm to perform its torque transmission function effectively while maintaining the compact overall shape of the speed reducer.
Data Source
AI summary
A speed reducer according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an input rotating body, a speed reducing mechanism unit, and a tubular case. The speed reducer is rotatable when acted upon by power fed from a drive device. The speed reducing mechanism unit reduces a speed of rotation of the input rotating body. The tubular case covers an outer surface of the speed reducing mechanism unit and rotates when acted upon by speed-reduced power from the speed reducing mechanism unit. An output arm is formed integrally with the tubular case, the output arm extending radially outward from an outer peripheral surface of the tubular case and configured to transmit a manipulating force to an outside.