JP2000170879A - Differential gear - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make a structure of an initial torque-adjusting means simple and to reduce a cost. SOLUTION: This differential gear is provided with a pinion shaft 31 having a boss portion 29; a pinion gear 33; a differential mechanism 5 comprising side gears 35, 37 at an output side; a friction clutch 11 for differential restriction; and an initial torque-adjusting means 13 for the friction clutch 11. The adjusting means 13 is disposed in a through hole 28 of the boss portion 29 and is constituted by a spring 61 for urging the clutch 11; urging members 53, 55 for imparting a flexure to the spring 61; an operation member 57 externally operated from a through-hole 46 of the gear 37; and a cam 59 changing a flexure quantity of the spring 61 through members 53, 55 when the member 57 is operated.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a differential device having an initial torque adjusting means.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A differential device 201 as shown in FIG.

The differential device 201 includes a differential case 203 which is rotated by the driving force of an engine, a bevel gear type differential mechanism 205, and multi-plate clutches 207 and 20.
9, pressure rings 211, 213, cams 215, 2
17, disc springs 219, 221 and initial torque adjusting means 223.

The bevel gear type differential mechanism 205 is configured by meshing a pinion gear 227 supported on a pinion shaft 225 with output side gears 229, 231. Each of the side gears 229, 231 is connected via a drive shaft. It is connected to each wheel side.

The multi-plate clutches 207 and 209 are arranged between the differential case 203 and the side gears 229 and 231, and the cams 215 and 217 are provided between the pressure rings 211 and 213 and the pinion shaft 225. ing.

The cams 215 and 217 operate by receiving torque transmitted between the pressure rings 211 and 213 and the pinion shaft 225, and are multi-plated via the pressure rings 211 and 213 by respective cam thrust forces. The clutches 207 and 209 are pressed.

Further, the multi-plate clutches 207 and 209 are pressed via the pressure rings 211 and 213 by a reaction force of the side gears 229 and 231 generated by the engagement with the pinion gear 227.

[0008] The cam thrust force of the cams 215, 217,
Since the meshing reaction forces of the side gears 229 and 231 increase in proportion to the transmission torque, when the multi-plate clutches 207 and 209 are pressed by these forces, the torque-sensitive differential limiting function is performed by the frictional resistance. Is obtained.

The differential of the differential mechanism 205 is limited by the torque-sensitive differential limiting function, and the maneuverability and stability of the vehicle are improved when starting or accelerating when a large driving force is applied.

[0010] Each of the multi-plate clutches 207 and 209 has:
A constant initial torque (differential limiting force) is given by the urging force of the disc springs 219 and 221.

In the differential device 201 having a torque-sensitive differential limiting function, when one wheel idles, the torque escapes from the idle wheel to reduce the differential limiting function, but the differential limiting function is obtained by the disc springs 219 and 221. The initial torque is, for example, when the vehicle starts or accelerates, or
Even when one of the wheels tries to spin on a rough road or the like, the torque is prevented from escaping to the wheel on the idling side, so that the starting performance and acceleration performance are kept high, and a large rough road running performance is provided.

The initial torque adjusting means 223 is disposed on the right end side of the differential case 203, and includes a ring 235 provided with a worm wheel 233, and a push rod 23 disposed between the ring 235 and the disc spring 221.
7. Worm 239 meshing with worm wheel 233
Is formed from an operation rod 241 formed with a.

The ring 235 is screwed into the differential case 203, and the operation rod 241 is rotatably attached to the cam case 243. This cam case 243 is a differential carrier 24 that accommodates the differential device 201.
5 is attached to the rear case 247.

When the operation rod 241 is rotated, the ring 235 is rotated by the engagement between the worm 239 and the worm wheel 233. The ring 235 moves on the screw while rotating, presses the disc spring 221 via the push rod 237, and changes the amount of deflection of the disc spring 221 to adjust the initial torque.

As described above, it is possible to adjust the initial torque from the outside, and this initial torque adjusting function can be used for a different vehicle type or
When used in a racing vehicle, the initial torque can be set according to different specifications.

[0016]

However, as described above, in the differential device 201, the structure of the initial torque adjusting means 223 is extremely complicated, and the number of members is large. They are heavy and costly.

The initial torque adjusting means 223 is
Since the differential device 201 is arranged outside the differential case 203, the differential device 201 becomes large in size and disadvantageous in terms of arrangement space.

Further, since a dedicated cam case 243 is used to mount the initial torque adjusting means 223, the number of members is further increased and the size is increased.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a differential device in which the structure of initial torque adjusting means for adjusting the initial torque of the friction clutch for limiting differential is simplified and the cost is reduced.

[0020]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a differential device, comprising: a differential case rotatably driven by a driving force of an engine; a pinion shaft connected to the differential case side and connected to a boss portion; A differential mechanism having a pinion gear, a pair of output side gears meshed with the pinion gear, a differential clutch disposed between the differential case and the side gear, and an initial torque of the friction clutch. Initial torque adjusting means, which is disposed in a through hole provided in the boss portion of the pinion shaft, and which provides a spring for pressing the friction clutch and a bend by pressing the spring. External operation is possible from the pressing member and through holes provided in the side gear An operating member, provided between the operating member and the pressing member, when it is displaced operated through the operation member,
Displacement adjusting means for adjusting the initial torque by moving the pressing member and changing the amount of deflection of the spring.

As described above, in the differential device according to the first aspect, the initial torque is given to the friction clutch for limiting the differential by the urging force of the spring. Even under conditions where one wheel is large and tends to idle, such as when driving on a road, torque is prevented from escaping to the idle side wheels, and the vehicle's startability and acceleration are maintained at a high level. Gender.

Further, since the initial torque can be adjusted by changing the amount of deflection of the spring by the initial torque adjusting means, it can be used for a differential device for a wide variety of vehicle types.

Even if the initial torque changes over time,
Since re-adjustment can be easily performed, an overhaul kit is not required, and maintenance costs are reduced.

For example, when used in a racing vehicle, the initial torque can be freely adjusted according to conditions such as the road surface temperature of the circuit, the coefficient of friction, the state of unevenness, and whether the weather is sunny or rainy. It is possible.

In addition, in the differential device of the present invention, an operation member externally operated from the through hole of the side gear, a displacement adjusting means operated to be displaced through the operation member, and a movement operation performed by the displacement adjusting means. The initial torque adjusting means constituted by a pressing member or the like for changing the amount of deflection of the spring has a very simple structure as compared with the conventional initial torque adjusting means, and
Since the number of parts is small, the reliability is high, the weight is low, and the cost is low.

Further, since the initial torque adjusting means is disposed in the through hole provided in the boss portion of the pinion shaft, unlike the prior art in which the initial torque adjusting means is disposed outside the differential case, the differential device of the present invention is different from the prior art. Are small in size, which is advantageous in terms of arrangement space.

Further, like the conventional cam case 243,
Since a special case member for attaching the initial torque adjusting means is not required, the number of members is further reduced, and the weight is reduced and the size is reduced.

Further, since the displacement adjusting means can be externally operated through the through hole of the side gear via the operating member, the initial torque can be easily adjusted by simply removing the drive shaft from the side gear without disassembling the entire differential device. Can also be changed.

Further, the operating member can be used for the thrust block which abuts the tip of the drive shaft connected to each side gear. In this case, the thrust block becomes unnecessary and the number of parts can be reduced.

The operating member is operated by using, for example, a tool having a wrench-shaped tip. The operating member includes, for example, a hexagonal hole for a wrench or a hexagonal engaging portion for a box wrench. Is provided.

Further, the configuration of the present invention in which the initial torque adjusting means is arranged on the boss portion side of the pinion shaft so that the operation member can be operated from the through hole of the side gear is provided, for example, on the differential case and the operation member, respectively. It is possible to provide a visual recognition means, such as a matching mark, that can confirm the setting state of the initial torque from outside.

As described above, if the set initial torque can be confirmed from the outside, the set initial torque can be known without disassembling the differential device, so that the set initial torque can be obtained during stock or on the assembly line. This eliminates the need for special consideration for distinguishing the differential devices having different initial torques, and can greatly reduce management costs and the like.

Therefore, it is not necessary to return the vehicle to the factory and disassemble the differential device for confirming the initial torque, so that a large cost associated with this is not required. Can be adjusted frequently at low cost.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided the differential device according to the first aspect, wherein the pressing member of the initial torque adjusting means is movably connected to the through hole of the boss portion, and the displacement adjusting means is operated by the operating means. A plurality of grooves having different depths formed on one of the member and the pressing member, and an engaging portion formed on the other of the operating member and the pressing member and engaged with these grooves to maintain a position. It is characterized by.

In this configuration, the displacement adjusting means comprises a plurality of grooves having different depths, and engaging portions which engage with these grooves. Is moved, the initial torque is adjusted by changing the amount of deflection of the spring, and an effect equivalent to that of the first aspect is obtained.

In addition, since the position of the engaging portion is held by the stopper function of each groove, for example, even if it is subjected to vibration during traveling, the fluctuation of the set initial torque is prevented. The vehicle can achieve stable running performance and the like.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the differential device according to the first aspect, the displacement adjusting means is rotatably disposed with one of the pressing members movably connected to the through hole of the boss portion. It is provided between the other pressing member and the operating member is formed integrally with the other pressing member.

In this configuration, when the other pressing member is rotated through the operating section (operating member), the displacement adjusting means provided between the pressing members is operated, and each pressing member is changed depending on the direction of the rotating operation. Are widened and narrow.

As described above, when the interval between the pressing members changes, the amount of deflection of the spring changes, and the initial torque is adjusted, so that the same effect as that of the first aspect is obtained.

In addition, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the displacement adjusting means, it is possible to precisely cope with different requirements for different types of vehicles and to greatly improve the traveling performance.

Further, since the operating member is integrated with the other pressing member, the number of parts is reduced accordingly, and the cost is reduced.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the differential device according to the first aspect, wherein the initial torque adjusting means is provided between the one pressing member and the through hole of the boss portion or the operating member. A displacement adjusting means provided between the other pressing member and the through hole of the boss portion or the operating member;
And a second displacement adjusting means having a thrust force in the opposite direction.

In this configuration, when the operating member is rotated, the first and second members provided between the operating member and the pressing members or between the pressing members and the through holes of the boss portion (pinion shaft) are provided. When the second displacement adjusting means operates,
Each pressing member is moved in the opposite direction, and the interval between the pressing members is increased or decreased depending on the rotation direction of the operation member.

As described above, when the interval between the pressing members changes, the amount of deflection of the spring changes, and the initial torque is adjusted, so that the same effect as that of the first aspect is obtained.

Further, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the displacement adjusting means, the running performance can be greatly improved in response to different requirements for different types of vehicles.

The invention of claim 5 is the invention of claim 3 or claim 4.
5. The differential device according to claim 3, wherein the displacement adjusting means is a screw.
The same effect as that of the configuration is obtained.

In addition, the screw is a displacement adjusting means having a small step and has a substantial stopper function. For example, even if the screw is subjected to vibration during traveling, the set initial torque fluctuates. As a result, the vehicle can have stable running performance.

Further, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the screw, it is possible to precisely cope with different requirements for different types of vehicles and to greatly improve the running performance and the like.

The invention of claim 6 is the invention of claims 1 to 5
In the differential device according to any one of the above, the constituent member of the initial torque adjusting means is held between the pair of retaining rings by the biasing force of the spring, or between the convex portion and the retaining ring. In this case, the same effect as any one of claims 1 to 5 is obtained.

In this configuration, the member constituting the initial torque adjusting means is held between the pair of retaining rings by receiving the urging force of the spring, or is retained between the convex portion and the retaining ring.

As described above, since each constituent member can be sub-assembled in advance, the assembly and management of the initial torque adjusting means becomes extremely easy.

Also, when the initial torque adjusting means is mounted on the boss of the pinion shaft, and when a pair of retaining rings are used, one of the retaining rings is removed and the other constituent members are assembled. Is mounted, the assembly is completed. When a convex portion is provided on the operating member, the retaining ring is removed, other components are assembled, and the mounting is completed by attaching the retaining ring.

Further, assembling the initial torque adjusting means to the differential device is carried out integrally with the pinion shaft, so that it is extremely easy.

As described above, since the initial torque adjusting means is easy to assemble and manage and is easy to assemble to the differential device, the cost of each is greatly reduced.

The invention of claim 7 is the first to sixth aspects of the present invention.
The differential device according to any one of the above, further comprising a pair of pressure rings movably connected to the differential case, a pinion shaft of the differential mechanism is connected to these pressure rings via a cam. When the transmission torque is received, these cams operate to press the friction clutch via the pressure ring, and the same effect as any one of claims 1 to 6 is obtained.

The driving force of the engine for rotating the differential case is transmitted to the pinion shaft via the pressure ring and the cam, and is distributed from the pinion gear to each wheel via both side gears.

At this time, the cam is actuated by receiving the transmission torque, the friction clutch is pressed via the pressure ring, and a torque-sensitive differential limiting function is obtained by the frictional resistance. The differential of the differential mechanism is limited by the torque-sensitive differential limiting function, and the maneuverability and stability of the vehicle are improved particularly at the time of starting or accelerating where a large driving force is applied.

In addition, when starting, accelerating, or traveling on a rough road, one of the wheels largely idles, and the torque escapes from the idling one of the wheels, thereby deteriorating the torque-sensitive differential limiting function. Even in such a state, the initial torque
Since the escape of the torque from the idling wheels is prevented, the startability and acceleration of the vehicle are kept high, and a large rough road running performance is obtained.

As described above, in the configuration of claim 7 having the torque-sensitive differential limiting function, the decrease in the torque-sensitive differential limiting function can be compensated for by the initial torque, and the initial torque can be externally adjusted. It is particularly suitable for the differential device of the present invention that can be used.

[0060]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

This embodiment has the features of the first, second, sixth and seventh aspects, and FIG. 1 shows a differential device 1 of this embodiment. The left and right directions are the vehicle using the differential device 1 and the left and right directions in FIG. 1, and members and the like without reference numerals are not shown.

The differential device 1 includes a differential case 3, a bevel gear type differential mechanism 5, a pressure ring 7,
7, cams 9, 9, multi-plate clutches 11, 11 (friction clutches), initial torque adjusting means 13, and the like.

The differential device 1 is housed in a differential carrier provided with an oil reservoir. The differential case 3 is formed by fixing the casing body 15 and the cover 17 with bolts 19, and the left and right boss portions 21 and 23 are supported on the differential carrier by bearings. The boss portions 21 and 23 are provided with through holes 24 and 25 for passing a drive shaft, respectively.

A ring gear is fixed to the differential case 3, and this ring gear meshes with a gear on the propeller shaft side. Thus, the differential case 3 is rotationally driven via the propeller shaft by the driving force of the engine.

Each pressure ring 7 is connected to the differential case 3 movably in the axial direction by engaging a convex portion 26 provided on the outer periphery with an axial groove 27 provided in the differential case 3.

The bevel gear type differential mechanism 5 includes a pinion shaft 31 radially formed around a boss portion 29 provided with a through hole 28, and a pinion gear 33 rotatably supported on each pinion shaft 31. , A pair of output side gears 35, 37 meshed with the pinion gear 33.
It is composed of

The side gears 35 and 37 have boss portions 39 and 41, respectively.
These boss portions 39, 41
Are supported on the inner periphery of the support portions 43 and 44 of the differential case 3. The boss portions 39, 41 are provided with through holes 45, 46 for passing the drive shaft.

Further, the side gears 35 and 37 are
It is spline-connected to each drive shaft via 9, 41, and connected to the left and right wheel sides via each drive shaft.

A spherical washer 47 is formed on the inner periphery of each pressure ring 7. These spherical washers 47 support the rear surface of the pinion gear 33 and receive a centrifugal force and a meshing reaction force.

The cam 9 is formed between the distal end of the pinion shaft 31 and both pressure rings 7. The cams 9 are formed on both sides of the differential case 3 in the rotation direction.

Each multi-plate clutch 11 is disposed between the inner periphery of the differential case 3 and the outer periphery of the boss portions 39, 41 (side gears 35, 37).

The driving force of the engine for rotating the differential case 3 is input to the differential mechanism 5 through the pressure rings 7 and 7, the cams 9 and 9, and the pinion shaft 31, and from the pinion gear 33 through the side gears 35 and 37. Distributed to the left and right wheels.

For example, when starting, accelerating, or
When a driving resistance difference occurs between wheels during traveling on a rough road or the like, the driving force of the engine is differentially distributed to the left and right wheels by the rotation of the pinion gear 33.

The cams 9 and 9 are provided with pressure rings 7 and
It operates by receiving a transmission torque between the pinion shaft 7 and the pinion shaft 31, and presses each multi-plate clutch 11 via each pressure ring 7 by each cam thrust force.

Further, each multi-plate clutch 11 is provided with side gears 35, 3 generated by meshing with a pinion gear 33.
Due to the meshing reaction force of 7, it is pressed via the pressure rings 7, 7.

As described above, each of the multi-plate clutches 11 is pressed by the cam thrust force of the cams 9, 9 and the meshing reaction force of the side gears 35, 37, which are increased in proportion to the transmission torque, and each of the engaged multi-plate clutches 11 is engaged. The frictional resistance 11 provides a torque-sensitive differential limiting function.

The differential of the differential mechanism 5 is limited by the torque-sensitive differential limiting function, and the maneuverability and stability of the vehicle are improved.

In particular, when starting or accelerating when a large torque is applied, a large differential limiting force can be obtained by the torque-sensitive differential limiting function, so that the maneuverability and stability are further improved.

The initial torque adjusting means 13 is disposed in a through hole 28 provided in the boss portion 29 of the pinion shaft 31, and is provided with left and right pressure plates 49, 5.
1, ring-shaped pressing members 53 and 55, shaft-shaped operating member 5
7. Cam 59 as displacement adjusting means, disc springs 61, 61
(Spring), retaining rings 63, 63 and the like.

Each of the pressure plates 49 and 51 can move in the axial direction while being prevented from rotating by the boss 29 by the pins 65.

The flange portions 67 and 69 of the pressure plates 49 and 51 are sandwiched between the boss portion 29 of the pinion shaft 31 and the side gears 35 and 37, respectively.

Each of the pressing members 53 and 55 has a boss 2
9 are spline-connected to the through holes 28 so as to be movable left and right.

The operating member 57 penetrates each of the pressing members 53 and 55, and both ends thereof are provided with the through holes 45 and 46 of the side gears 35 and 37 and the respective through holes 24 and 25 of the differential case 3.
, Respectively.

The operating member 57 includes the pressing members 53,
Protrusions 71, 71 (engaging portions) having a circular cross section are provided between the protrusions 55, and these convex portions 71 are formed in directions opposite to each other by 180 °.

A hexagonal hole 73 for a wrench is provided at the right end of the operation member 57 as shown in FIG.

The cam 59 is operated by the operating member 57 as described below.
Are provided between the convex portions 71, 71 and the pressing members 53, 55.

Each disc spring 61 is connected to each pressure plate 4
9 and 51 and the pressing members 53 and 55, respectively, are pressed between the pressing members 53 and 55 toward the convex portions 71 and 71 (cam 59) of the operation member 57, and the pressure plates 49 and 55 are pressed. , 51, side gears 35, 37 and pressure rings 7, 7, each multi-plate clutch 11
Is pressed.

Each retaining ring 63 is mounted on both ends of the operating member 57, and until the initial torque adjusting means 13 is incorporated into the differential device 1, each disc spring 6
1 each pressure plate 49, 51 pressed by
To prevent falling off of each.

Further, as described above, by the function of preventing the retaining rings 63 from falling off, the pressure plates 49, 51, the pressing members 53, 55,
The disc springs 61, 61 and the like can be sub-assembled on the operating member 57.

After the right retaining ring 63 and the pressure plate 51 are detached from the operating member 57, another member is assembled to the boss portion 29 of the pinion shaft 31, and then the retaining ring 63 and the pressure plate 51 are removed. By assembling to the operating member 57, the initial torque adjusting means 13 can be assembled to the pinion shaft 31.

The initial torque adjusting means 13 is assembled to the differential device 1 integrally with the pinion shaft 31.

Further, the pinion shaft 31 to which the initial torque adjusting means 13 is attached, the side gears 35 and 37
When the parts are assembled to the differential case 3, each side gear 35,
37 presses through the pressure plates 49 and 51, and the disc springs 61 and 61 are bent.

In this state, each disc spring 61 presses each multi-plate clutch 11 via the pressure plates 49, 51, the side gears 35, 37, and the pressure rings 7, 7.
Generates initial torque.

Even when the vehicle is starting or accelerating, or running on a rough road, the torque can escape from one idling wheel and the torque-sensitive differential limiting function can easily be reduced. The initial torque of 11 prevents the torque from escaping from the idling wheels, so that the starting performance, acceleration performance, and running performance on rough roads are prevented from being reduced, and the vehicle body on starting, accelerating, and on rough roads is prevented. Is stable and maneuverability is greatly improved.

As shown in FIG. 3, grooves 75, 77, 79, 81, 8 provided radially are formed in the pressing members 53, 55, respectively.
3 and a sliding surface 85 provided therebetween. As shown in FIG. 4, each groove 75, 77, 79, 81, 83
Are deeper in this order in depth D1, D2, D3, D4, D5.

The convex portions 71, 71 of the operating member 57 are engaged with these grooves 75, 77, 79, 81, 83, respectively.
77, 79, 81, and 83 hold the convex portions 71, 71 in their positions by the stopper function.

The cam 59 is provided in each of the grooves 75, 77, 79, 8
1 and 83 and the convex portion 71.

The through hole 25 of the differential case 3 and the side gear 3
7, insert a tool having a wrench tip through the through hole 46, attach the wrench to the hexagonal hole 73, and operate the operating member 5.
When the 7 is rotated, the protrusions 71 slide on the sliding surface 85 and engage with the grooves 75, 77, 79, 81, 83.

When the convex portions 71, 71 are engaged with the deepest groove 83, the interval between the pressing members 53, 55 becomes the narrowest. When the convex portions 71, 71 are engaged with the shallowest groove 75, the pressing member 5 is pressed.
The interval between 3, 55 is the widest.

As described above, when the convex portions 71, 71 are engaged with the grooves 75, 77, 79, 81, 83 having different depths, the interval between the pressing members 53, 55 changes. The amount of deflection of the disc spring 61 changes, and each multi-plate clutch 11
Initial torque changes.

Thus, the initial torque can be adjusted by rotating the operation member 57.

Even on an actual vehicle, the initial torque can be adjusted in this manner by removing the drive shaft from the side gear 37.

The operating member 57 of the initial torque adjusting means 13 can be used as a thrust block for abutting the tip of a drive shaft connected to the side gears 35 and 37.

Since the operating member 57 faces the through holes 25 and 46, for example, the differential case 3 and the operating member 5
If a matching mark (visual recognition means) is provided for each of the members 7, the rotation angle of the operation member 57 can be checked, and the set state of the initial torque can be easily checked without disassembling the differential device 1. Can be.

The differential case 3 has openings 87, 89, 9
1, 93, 95, 97 are provided, and the boss portion 21,
A spiral oil groove is provided in each of the through holes 24 and 25.

In the differential case 3, these openings 87, 8
9, 91, 93, 95, 97, and oil in the oil pool flows out and in from the oil grooves, the meshing portions of the gears of the differential mechanism 5, the convex portions 26 of the pressure rings 7, 7, and the differential case 3
Groove 27, cams 9, 9, spherical washer portion 47, each multi-plate clutch 11, cam 59 of initial torque adjusting means 13.
Each of the sliding parts is sufficiently lubricated to operate normally and durability is improved.

Thus, the differential device 1 is configured.

In the differential device 1, even under running conditions in which one wheel is large and slips easily, the initial torque of each multi-plate clutch 11 can maintain high starting performance, acceleration performance, poor road performance, and the like.

Further, since the initial torque can be freely adjusted by the initial torque adjusting means 13, it can be used for different types of vehicles in a wide range, and the actual vehicle can cope with different running conditions.

The initial torque adjusting means 13 configured to move the pressing members 53 and 55 to change the amount of deflection of the disc spring 61 by a cam 59 externally operated via the operating member 57 is a conventional example. As compared with the initial torque adjusting means, the structure is extremely simple and the number of parts is small, so that the reliability, weight and cost are low.

Further, the initial torque adjusting means 13 is provided in the through hole 2 provided in the boss 29 of the pinion shaft 31.
8, unlike the conventional example in which the initial torque adjusting means is arranged outside the differential case, the differential device 1 is configured to be so small in size, which is advantageous in terms of the arrangement space inside the differential carrier.

In the initial torque adjusting means 13,
Since a special case member for mounting the initial torque adjusting means, such as the cam case 243 of the conventional example, is not required, the number of members is further reduced, and the weight is reduced and the size is reduced.

Further, since the cam 59 can be externally operated only by removing the drive shaft from the side gear 37, the initial torque can be easily adjusted and changed without disassembling the entire differential device 1.

Also, even if the initial torque changes over time,
Since readjustment is easy in this way, an overhaul kit is not required, and maintenance costs are reduced.

Each of the grooves 75, 77,
With the stopper function of 79, 81, 83, the operating member 5
Since the projections 71 of the 7 are held at the engagement positions with the respective grooves, the fluctuation of the set initial torque is prevented even when the vehicle is subjected to vibration during traveling, and a stable traveling property is obtained.

Further, since the respective constituent members can be subassembled by the retaining ring 63, the initial torque adjusting means 1 is provided.
3 is very easy to assemble and manage.

Further, the assembly of the initial torque adjusting means 13 to the differential device 1 is very easy because it is performed integrally with the pinion shaft 31.

As described above, the initial torque adjusting means 1
3 is easy to assemble and manage, and easy to assemble to the differential device 1, so that the cost of each is greatly reduced.

The operating member 57 includes the side gears 35, 3
If the drive shaft 7 is abutted, a thrust block becomes unnecessary, and the number of parts can be reduced.

Further, since the operation member 57 is opposed to the through holes 25 and 46 of the differential case 3 and the side gear 37, it is possible to provide the visual recognition means for confirming the rotation angle of the operation member 57 as described above. Therefore, in this case, the set state of the initial torque can be easily confirmed without disassembling the differential device 1.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

The differential device 99 of this embodiment
Has the features of claims 1, 3, 5, 6, and 7.

In the description of FIGS. 5 and 6 and the second embodiment, members having the same functions as those of the differential device 1 of the first embodiment will be referred to by the same numerals, and overlapping descriptions of these same members will be described. Is omitted.

The differential device 99 corresponds to the differential device 1 of the first embodiment, in which the initial torque adjusting means 13 is replaced with the initial torque adjusting means 101, and the differential case 3, the bevel gear type differential mechanism 5, and the pressure ring 7, 7, cams 9, 9, multi-plate clutches 11, 11, initial torque adjusting means 101, and the like.

The initial torque adjusting means 101 is provided with a through hole 28 provided in the boss 29 of the pinion shaft 31.
And left and right pressure plates 49, 5
1, disc springs 61, retaining rings 63, 63, shaft 10
Left and right pressing members 107, 1 having 3, 105 respectively
09, an operation unit 111, a screw (displacement adjusting means) 113, and the like.

The left pressing member 107 has a boss 29
The right pressing member 109 is spline-connected to the through hole 28 and is movable left and right. The right pressing member 109 is freely rotatable and movable in the left and right directions.

The operating section 111 is formed on the right pressing member 109. As shown in FIG. 6, the operating section 111 is provided with a hexagonal hole 115 for a wrench.

The operating portion 111 faces through holes 46 and 25 formed in the boss 41 of the side gear 37 and the boss 23 of the differential case 3, respectively.

The screw 113 is formed between the shaft portions 103 and 105 of the pressing members 107 and 109,
07 and 109 are moved in opposite directions.

Each of the disc springs 61 is connected to each of the pressure plates 4.
9 and 51 and the pressing members 107 and 109, respectively.

[0131] Each retaining ring 63 is attached to the shaft 1 of the pressing member 107.
03, and the operating portions 111 of the pressing member 109, respectively, and until the initial torque adjusting means 101 is incorporated into the differential device 99, the pressure plates 49, 5
1 is prevented from falling off.

As described above, by the function of preventing the retaining rings 63 from falling off, the pressure plates 49, 51, the pressing members 107, 10 constituting the initial torque adjusting means 101 are formed.
9, the disc springs 61, 61, etc. can be sub-assembled.

Further, with the right retaining ring 63 and the pressure plate 51 removed, another member is connected to the pinion shaft 3.
If the retaining ring 63 and the pressure plate 51 are assembled after being assembled to the first boss portion 29, the initial torque adjusting means 101 can be assembled to the pinion shaft 31.

The assembly of the initial torque adjusting means 101 to the differential device 99 is performed integrally with the pinion shaft 31.

Further, the pinion shaft 31 to which the initial torque adjusting means 101 is attached, the side gears 35, 3
7 is attached to the differential case 3, and each side gear 3
Belleville springs 61, 61 are pressed from 5, 37 via pressure plates 49, 51 to bend.

In this state, the disc springs 61, 61 press the multiple disc clutches 11, 11 via the pressure plates 49, 51, the side gears 35, 37 and the pressure rings 7, 7 to generate initial torque.

This initial torque prevents the torque from escaping from the idling wheels, and prevents a decrease in starting performance, acceleration performance, running on rough roads, and the like.
The behavior of the vehicle body on rough roads is stabilized, and the maneuverability is greatly improved.

When a tool having a wrench tip is inserted into each of the through holes 25 and 46 of the differential case 3 and the side gear 37 and attached to the hexagon hole 115 of the operation unit 111, and the pressing member 109 is rotated, The distance between the pressing members 107 and 109 is changed by 113, and the amount of deflection of each disc spring 61 is changed accordingly, and the initial torque of each multi-plate clutch 11 is changed.

Thus, the operation unit 111 (the pressing member 10)
By rotating 9), the initial torque can be adjusted.

The use of the screw 113 allows the initial torque to be adjusted steplessly.

Further, the shaft portion 103 of the pressing member 107 and the operating portion 111 of the pressing member 109 can be used as a thrust block against which the drive shafts of the side gears 35 and 37 abut.

Since the operation section 111 is opposed to the through holes 25 and 46, if a matching mark (visual recognition means) is provided on each of the differential case 3 and the operation section 111, the differential device 99 can be disassembled without being disassembled. The setting state of the initial torque can be easily confirmed.

Thus, the differential device 99 is configured.

[0144] The differential device 99 keeps the starting performance, acceleration performance, running ability on rough roads, etc. of the vehicle high by the initial torque of each multi-plate clutch 11.

Further, the initial torque can be freely adjusted by the initial torque adjusting means 101, and can be used for a wide range of different vehicle types.
In an actual vehicle, different driving conditions can be accommodated.

Furthermore, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the screw 113, it is possible to precisely respond to different requirements depending on the type of vehicle, running conditions and the like.

The initial torque adjusting means 101 configured to move the pressing members 107 and 109 to change the amount of deflection of the disc spring 61 by a screw 113 externally operated via the operating portion 111 is a conventional example. As compared with the initial torque adjusting means, the structure is extremely simple and the number of parts is small, so that the reliability, weight and cost are low.

Further, the initial torque adjusting means 101
Since the differential device 99 is arranged in the through hole 28 of the boss portion 29 (pinion shaft 31), unlike the conventional example, the differential device 99 is so small in size and advantageous in the arrangement space.

The initial torque adjusting means 101 is
Since a special case member such as the conventional cam case 243 is not required, the number of members is further reduced, and the weight is reduced.
Become smaller.

Further, since the screw 113 can be externally operated only by removing the drive shaft from the side gear 37, the initial torque can be easily adjusted and changed without disassembling the entire differential device 99.

Even if the initial torque changes over time,
Since readjustment is easy in this way, an overhaul kit is not required, and maintenance costs are reduced.

Further, since the thrust force of the screw 113 is maintained at the set value by the substantial stopper function of the screw 113, the fluctuation of the set initial torque is prevented even if it is subjected to vibration, so that stable running can be achieved. And the like.

Further, since each component can be sub-assembled by the retaining ring 63, the initial torque adjusting means 1 can be used.
01 is very easy to assemble and manage, and the assembling to the differential device 99 is performed by the pinion shaft 31.
This is very easy because it is performed integrally.

As described above, the initial torque adjusting means 1
01 is easy to assemble and manage, and easy to assemble to the differential device 99, so that the cost of each is greatly reduced.

If the drive shafts of the side gears 35 and 37 are brought into contact with the shaft 103 of the pressing member 107 and the operating portion 111 of the pressing member 109, a thrust block becomes unnecessary, and the number of parts can be reduced.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

The differential device 11 of this embodiment
7 has the features of claims 1, 4, 5, 6, and 7.

In the description of FIG. 7 and the third embodiment,
Members having the same functions as those of the differential devices 1 and 99 of the first and second embodiments are referred to by the same reference numerals, and overlapping description of these same members will be omitted.

The differential device 117 includes the first
In the differential devices 1 and 99 of the embodiment, the initial torque adjusting means 13 and 101 correspond to those in which the initial torque adjusting means 119 is replaced with a differential case 3, a bevel gear type differential mechanism 5, a pressure ring 7,
7, cams 9, 9, multi-plate clutches 11, 11, initial torque adjusting means 119, and the like.

The initial torque adjusting means 119 is provided with a through hole 28 provided in the boss 29 of the pinion shaft 31.
And left and right pressure plates 49, 5
1, disc springs 61, 61, retaining ring 63, axial operating member 1
21, ring-shaped pressing members 123, 125, screw 127
(A first displacement adjusting means), a screw 129 (a second displacement adjusting means), and a step 131 (a convex portion for a subassembly).

The operating member 121 includes the pressing members 123, 1
25, each of the pressing members 123 and 125 is spline-connected to the operation member 121, and is movable left and right.

Each disc spring 61 is connected to each pressure plate 4
9 and 51 and the pressing members 123 and 125, respectively.

The screws 127 and 129 are
The reverse screws are provided between the first and second through holes 125 and the through hole 28 of the boss 29 and have opposite steps.

A hexagonal head 133 for attaching a box wrench is formed at the right end of the operation member 121. The head 133 faces the side gear 37 and the through holes 46 and 25 of the differential case 3. ing.

The step 131 is a portion corresponding to the jaw of the head 133, and the retaining ring 63 is
It is attached to the left end side.

Until the initial torque adjusting means 119 is incorporated in the differential device 117, the retaining ring 6
3 prevents the lesser plate 49 pressed by the disc spring 61 from falling off, and the step 131 prevents the pressure plate 51 pressed by the disc spring 61 from falling off.

In this way, the initial torque adjusting means 119 is provided by the retaining ring 63 and the function of preventing the step portion 131 from falling off.
Pressure plates 49 and 51 constituting the pressing member 1
23, 125, disc springs 61, 61, etc. can be sub-assembled.

Further, the retaining ring 63 and the pressure plate 49
After the other members are assembled to the boss portion 29 of the pinion shaft 31 in a state where they are removed, the retaining ring 63 and the pressure plate 49 are assembled.
9 can be attached to the pinion shaft 31.

The initial torque adjusting means 119 is assembled to the differential device 117 integrally with the pinion shaft 31.

Further, the pinion shaft 31 to which the initial torque adjusting means 119 is attached, the side gears 35, 3
7 is attached to the differential case 3, and each side gear 3
Belleville springs 61, 61 are pressed from 5, 37 via pressure plates 49, 51 to bend.

In this state, the disc springs 61, 61 press the multi-plate clutches 11, 11 via the pressure plates 49, 51, the side gears 35, 37, and the pressure rings 7, 7 to generate initial torque.

The initial torque prevents the torque from escaping from the idling wheels, prevents the startability, acceleration, and the ability to travel on rough roads. Behavior is stable and maneuverability is greatly improved.

When a tool having a box wrench at the end is inserted through the through holes 25 and 46 of the differential case 3 and the side gear 37 and attached to the head 133 of the operation member 121 and rotated, the screws 127 and 129 The distance between the pressing members 123 and 125 changes, and accordingly, the amount of deflection of each disc spring 61 changes, and the initial torque of each multi-plate clutch 11 changes.

Thus, the initial torque can be adjusted by rotating the operation member 121.

Further, by using the screws 127 and 129, the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly.

The operating member 121 of the initial torque adjusting means 119 can be used as a thrust block for abutting the tip of a drive shaft connected to the side gears 35 and 37.

Since the head 133 of the operating member 121 faces the through holes 25 and 46, if the matching marks (visual recognition means) are provided on the differential case 3 and the head 133, the differential device 117 can be disassembled. Without setting, it is possible to easily confirm the setting state of the initial torque.

Thus, the differential device 117 is configured.

The differential device 117 keeps the vehicle startability, acceleration, bad road performance, etc. high by the initial torque of each multi-plate clutch 11.

Since the initial torque can be freely adjusted by the initial torque adjusting means 119, it can be used for different types of vehicles in a wide range, and the actual vehicle can cope with different driving conditions. it can.

Further, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the screws 127 and 129, it is possible to precisely cope with different requirements depending on the type of vehicle, running conditions and the like.

The pressing members 123 and 125 are operated by screws 127 and 129 externally operated via the operating member 121.
The initial torque adjusting means 119 which is configured to change the amount of deflection of the disc spring 61 by moving the spring is very simple in structure and has a small number of parts as compared with the conventional example, so that it is highly reliable and lightweight. Yes, low cost.

Also, the initial torque adjusting means 119
Since the differential device 117 is arranged in the through hole 28 of the boss portion 29 (pinion shaft 31), unlike the conventional example, the differential device 117 is so small in size, which is advantageous in terms of the arrangement space inside the differential carrier.

The initial torque adjusting means 119 is
Since a special case member is not required, the number of members is further reduced, and the size and weight are reduced.

Further, since the screws 127 and 129 can be externally operated only by removing the drive shaft from the side gear 37, the initial torque can be easily adjusted and changed without disassembling the entire differential device 117. be able to.

Also, even if the initial torque changes over time,
Since re-adjustment is easy in this way, an overhaul kit is not required, and maintenance costs are reduced.

Further, since the thrust force of the screws 127 and 129 is maintained at the set value by the substantial stopper function of the screws 127 and 129, the fluctuation of the initial torque is prevented even if it is subjected to vibration, and the screws 127 and 129 are stabilized. Drivability and the like are obtained.

[0188] The retaining ring 63 and the stepped portion 131 provide
Since the components are sub-assembled, the assembly and management of the initial torque adjusting means 119 are extremely simple, and the assembly with the differential device 117 is performed integrally with the pinion shaft 31, so that it is extremely easy. The cost is greatly reduced.

The operation member 121 has the side gears 35,
If thirty-seven drive shafts are abutted, a thrust block becomes unnecessary, and the number of parts can be reduced.

In the present invention, the friction clutch is not limited to a multi-plate clutch, but may be another type of friction clutch such as a conical clutch.

The spring that applies the initial torque by pressing the friction clutch is not limited to the disc spring, but may be, for example,
A coil spring may be used.

In the structure of the second aspect, unlike the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, grooves having different depths are formed on the operation member side, and the engaging portions which engage with these grooves are formed. It may be formed on the pressing member side.

Further, in the structure of the fifth aspect, different from the third embodiment of FIG. 7, each pressing member is movably connected to the through hole of the boss portion (pinion shaft), and the first and second displacements are formed. Adjusting means (a screw and a reverse screw) may be provided between the operating member and each pressing member.

The differential device of the present invention includes a front differential (a differential device for distributing the driving force of the engine to the left and right front wheels) and a rear differential (a differential device for distributing the driving force of the engine to the right and left rear wheels).
It can be used for any center differential (differential device that distributes the driving force of the engine to the front wheels and the rear wheels).

[0195]

According to the differential device of the first aspect,
With the initial torque of the friction clutch, the startability, acceleration, running on rough roads, and the like of the vehicle can be kept high, and the initial torque adjustment function can be used for a wide range of different types of vehicles.

The initial torque adjusting means according to the present invention, which is configured to change the amount of bending of the spline by moving the pressing member by means of the displacement adjusting means externally operated via the operating member, is different from the conventional example. Since the structure is extremely simple and the number of parts is small, the reliability, the weight, and the cost are low.

Since the initial torque adjusting means is arranged in the through hole of the boss (pinion shaft),
Different from the conventional example, the differential device is smaller in size, and is advantageous in terms of arrangement space.

Further, since a special case member for attaching the initial torque adjusting means is not required, the number of members is further reduced, and the weight is reduced and the size is reduced.

Further, since the displacement adjusting means can be externally operated only by removing the drive shaft from the side gear, the initial torque can be easily adjusted or changed without disassembling the entire differential device.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the same effects as those of the first aspect are obtained, and even if vibration is applied, the variation of the initial torque is prevented by the stopper function of each groove constituting the displacement adjusting means. Stable running performance can be obtained.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the same effects as those of the first aspect are obtained, and the number of components is reduced and the cost is reduced by integrating the operating member and the pressing member.

Further, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the displacement adjusting means, it is possible to finely respond to different requirements depending on the type of vehicle, running conditions and the like.

According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the same effect as that of the first aspect can be obtained, and the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the displacement adjusting means.

The invention of claim 5 is the invention of claim 3 or claim 4.
In addition to obtaining the same effect as the configuration described above, even if the vehicle is subjected to vibration during traveling, fluctuations in the initial torque are prevented by the substantial stopper function of the screw, and stable traveling performance is obtained.

Further, since the initial torque can be adjusted steplessly by the screw, it is possible to precisely cope with different requirements depending on the type of vehicle, running conditions and the like.

The invention of claim 6 is the invention of claims 1 to 5
In addition to obtaining the same effect as any one of the above, the initial torque adjusting means can be sub-assembled, so that its assembly and management are extremely easy, and the assembly to the differential device is performed integrally with the pinion shaft, Extremely easy.

The invention of claim 7 is the invention of claims 1 to 6
According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, which has the same effect as any one of the above configurations and has a torque-sensitive differential limiting function, the decrease in the torque-sensitive differential limiting function can be compensated for by the initial torque. It is particularly suitable for the differential device of the present invention which can adjust the initial torque from the above.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a view taken in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a front view of a plurality of grooves constituting a displacement adjusting unit in the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view showing the depth of each groove in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a second embodiment.

6 is a view as viewed in the direction of arrow B in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a third embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

1, 99, 117 Differential device 3 Differential case 5 Differential mechanism 7 Pressure ring 9 Cam 11 Multi-plate clutch (friction clutch) 13, 101, 119 Initial torque adjusting means 28 Through hole provided in boss portion 29 of pinion shaft 31 29 Boss part of pinion shaft 31 31 Pinion shaft 33 Pinion gear 35, 37 Output side gear 45, 46 Boss part 39, 41 of side gear 35, 37
Through holes 49, 51 provided in the pressure plate 53, 55, 107, 109, 123, 125 pressing member 57, 121 operating member 59 cam (displacement adjusting means) 61 disc spring (spring) 63 retaining ring 71 operating member 57 Protrusions provided (each groove 75, 7
7, 79, 81, 83) 75, 77, 79, 81, 83 Grooves 111 of different depths 111 Operating part provided on pressing member 109 Screw (displacement adjusting means) 127 Screw (first Displacement adjusting means) 129 Reverse screw for screw 127 (second displacement adjusting means) 131 Stepped portion (projection for sub-assembly)

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A differential case rotatably driven by the driving force of an engine, a pinion shaft connected to the differential case side and connected to a boss portion, a pinion gear supported on the pinion shaft, and a pair of gears meshed with the pinion gear, respectively. A differential mechanism having an output side gear,
A friction clutch for limiting the differential disposed between the differential case and the side gear side, and an initial torque adjusting means for adjusting an initial torque of the friction clutch are provided, and the initial torque adjusting means is provided on a boss of the pinion shaft. A spring, which is arranged in the through hole provided and applies initial torque to the friction clutch, a pressing member which presses the spring to bend, and an operation member which can be externally operated from a through hole provided in the side gear. And a displacement adjusting means provided between the operating member and the pressing member, and when the displacement operation is performed via the operating member, the pressing member is moved, and the initial torque is adjusted by changing the amount of deflection of the spring. Characteristic differential device. 2. The invention according to claim 1, wherein the pressing member of the initial torque adjusting means is movably connected to the through hole of the boss portion, and the displacement adjusting means is one of the operating member and the pressing member. A plurality of grooves having different depths formed on the operating member and an engaging portion formed on the other of the operating member and the pressing member, the engaging portions being engaged with these grooves to maintain their positions. . 3. The invention according to claim 1, wherein the displacement adjusting means includes one pressing member movably connected to the through hole of the boss portion and the other pressing member rotatably disposed. A differential device, which is provided therebetween and wherein the operation member is formed integrally with the other pressing member. 4. The invention according to claim 1, wherein the displacement adjusting means includes a first displacement adjusting means provided between the one pressing member and the through hole of the boss portion or the operating member, and the other. It is provided between the pressing member and the through hole or the operating member of the boss portion,
A differential device comprising: a first displacement adjusting means and a second displacement adjusting means having a thrust force in an opposite direction. 5. The differential device according to claim 3, wherein the displacement adjusting means is a screw. 6. The invention according to claim 1, wherein a component of the initial torque adjusting means is provided between a pair of retaining rings by a biasing force of a spring or a convex. A differential device which is held between a part and a retaining ring. 7. The invention according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of pressure rings movably connected to the differential case, wherein the pinion shaft of the differential mechanism is: A differential device which is connected to these pressure rings via cams, and which receives a transmission torque, activates these cams to press the friction clutch via the pressure rings.