JP2007178201A - Rolling bearing unit with load-measuring device - Google Patents

Rolling bearing unit with load-measuring device Download PDF

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JP2007178201A
JP2007178201A JP2005375336A JP2005375336A JP2007178201A JP 2007178201 A JP2007178201 A JP 2007178201A JP 2005375336 A JP2005375336 A JP 2005375336A JP 2005375336 A JP2005375336 A JP 2005375336A JP 2007178201 A JP2007178201 A JP 2007178201A
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encoder
bearing unit
rolling bearing
measuring device
raceway
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Ichiu Tanaka
一宇 田中
Takeshi Takizawa
岳史 滝澤
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NSK Ltd
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NSK Ltd
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C19/00—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement
    • F16C19/22—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings
    • F16C19/34—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for both radial and axial load
    • F16C19/38—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for both radial and axial load with two or more rows of rollers
    • F16C19/383—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for both radial and axial load with two or more rows of rollers with tapered rollers, i.e. rollers having essentially the shape of a truncated cone
    • F16C19/385—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for both radial and axial load with two or more rows of rollers with tapered rollers, i.e. rollers having essentially the shape of a truncated cone with two rows, i.e. double-row tapered roller bearings
    • F16C19/386—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for both radial and axial load with two or more rows of rollers with tapered rollers, i.e. rollers having essentially the shape of a truncated cone with two rows, i.e. double-row tapered roller bearings in O-arrangement

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  • Force Measurement Appropriate To Specific Purposes (AREA)
  • Rolling Contact Bearings (AREA)

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize a structure capable of sufficiently securing size for encoder 6b and sensors 7a, 7a for constituting a load measurement device, even when the objective bearing unit is narrow row rolling bearing unit (the parts between rotation bodies 3a, 3a of double rows). <P>SOLUTION: The encoder 6b, and the sensors 7a, 7a are not inbetween the narrow row, but arranged in the wide axis ends (external ring 1 and internal ends of the hub 2a). In concrete terms, the encoder 6b is supported inside end part of the hub 2a and each sensor 7a, 7a is supported on the internal end part of the external ring 1 each sensor 7a, 7a are supported and fixed on the internal end part of the external ring 1. By adopting the constitution like this, the above problem can be solved. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

この発明に係る荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットは、自動車等の車両の車輪を懸架装置に対して回転自在に支持すると共に、この車輪に加わる荷重の大きさを測定して、車両の安定運行の確保に利用する。或は、各種工作機械の主軸を支持する為の転がり軸受ユニットに組み込んで、この主軸に加わる荷重を測定し、工具の送り速度等を適切に調節する為に利用する。   A rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to the present invention supports a wheel of a vehicle such as an automobile so as to be rotatable with respect to a suspension device, and measures the magnitude of a load applied to the wheel so that a stable operation of the vehicle is achieved. Use for securing. Alternatively, it is incorporated in a rolling bearing unit for supporting the spindles of various machine tools, is used for measuring the load applied to the spindle and adjusting the feed rate of the tool appropriately.

例えば自動車の車輪は懸架装置に対し、複列アンギュラ型の転がり軸受ユニット等の転がり軸受ユニットにより回転自在に支持する。又、自動車の走行安定性を確保する為に、例えば非特許文献１に記載されている様な、アンチロックブレーキシステム（ＡＢＳ）やトラクションコントロールシステム（ＴＣＳ）、更には、電子制御式ビークルスタビリティコントロールシステム（ＥＳＣ）等の車両用走行安定化装置が使用されている。この様な各種車両用走行安定化装置を制御する為には、車輪の回転速度、車体に加わる各方向の加速度等を表す信号が必要になる。そして、より高度の制御を行なう為には、車輪を介して上記転がり軸受ユニットに加わる荷重（例えばラジアル荷重とアキシアル荷重との一方又は双方）の大きさを知る事が好ましい場合がある。   For example, automobile wheels are rotatably supported by a rolling bearing unit such as a double-row angular type rolling bearing unit with respect to a suspension device. In order to ensure the running stability of the automobile, for example, as described in Non-Patent Document 1, an antilock brake system (ABS), a traction control system (TCS), and an electronically controlled vehicle stability A vehicle travel stabilization device such as a control system (ESC) is used. In order to control such various vehicle running stabilization devices, signals representing the rotational speed of the wheels, acceleration in each direction applied to the vehicle body, and the like are required. In order to perform higher-level control, it may be preferable to know the magnitude of a load (for example, one or both of a radial load and an axial load) applied to the rolling bearing unit via a wheel.

この様な事情に鑑みて、特許文献１には、複列アンギュラ型の玉軸受ユニットである転がり軸受ユニットを構成する１対の列の玉の公転速度に基づいて、この転がり軸受ユニットに加わるラジアル荷重又はアキシアル荷重を測定する、荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットに関する発明が記載されている。この様な特許文献１に記載された荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットは、上記両列の玉の公転速度を、これら各玉を保持した１対の保持器の回転速度として求め、これら両列の玉の公転速度に基づいて、上記ラジアル荷重又はアキシアル荷重を算出する。この様な従来構造の場合、上記各玉の転動面と上記両保持器のポケットの内面との間に不可避的に存在する隙間に起因して、上記両列の玉の公転速度と上記両保持器の回転速度との間に、微妙なずれが生じる場合がある。この為、上記ラジアル荷重又はアキシアル荷重を精度良く求める為には、改良の余地がある。   In view of such circumstances, Patent Document 1 discloses a radial applied to a rolling bearing unit based on the revolution speed of a pair of balls constituting a rolling bearing unit which is a double-row angular ball bearing unit. An invention relating to a rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device for measuring a load or an axial load is described. Such a rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device described in Patent Document 1 obtains the revolution speed of the balls in both rows as the rotation speed of a pair of cages holding these balls, Based on the revolution speed of the ball, the radial load or the axial load is calculated. In the case of such a conventional structure, due to a gap inevitably existing between the rolling surface of each ball and the inner surfaces of the pockets of both cages, the revolution speed of the balls in both rows and the both There may be a slight deviation between the rotational speed of the cage. For this reason, in order to obtain | require the said radial load or axial load accurately, there is room for improvement.

これに対して、近年、未公開ではあるが、上述の様な不可避的なずれに基づく測定精度の悪化を防止できる構造として、特殊なエンコーダを使用した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットが発明（例えば、特願２００５−１４７６４２号）され、その開発が進められている。図１１〜１４は、この様な特殊なエンコーダを使用した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットの第１例を示している。この先発明の第１例の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットは、懸架装置に支持された状態で回転しない、静止側軌道輪であって且つ外輪相当部材である外輪１の内径側に、車輪を支持固定した状態でこの車輪と共に回転する、回転側軌道輪であって且つ内輪相当部材であるハブ２を、複数個の転動体３、３を介して回転自在に支持している。具体的には、上記外輪１の内周面に複列に設けた外輪軌道４、４と、上記ハブ２の外周面に複列に設けた内輪軌道５、５との間に、それぞれ上記転動体３、３を複数個ずつ、転動自在に設けている。これら各転動体３、３には、互いに逆向きの（図示の場合には背面組み合わせ型の）接触角と共に、予圧を付与している。   On the other hand, although not disclosed in recent years, a rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device using a special encoder has been invented (for example, as a structure capable of preventing deterioration of measurement accuracy based on the above inevitable deviation (for example, Japanese Patent Application No. 2005-147642), and its development is underway. FIGS. 11-14 has shown the 1st example of the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device which uses such a special encoder. The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to the first embodiment of the present invention supports the wheel on the inner diameter side of the outer ring 1 which is a stationary side race ring and is an outer ring equivalent member which does not rotate while being supported by the suspension device. A hub 2 that is a rotating side race wheel and is an inner ring equivalent member that rotates together with the wheel in a fixed state is rotatably supported via a plurality of rolling elements 3 and 3. Specifically, between the outer ring raceways 4, 4 provided in a double row on the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring 1 and the inner ring raceways 5, 5 provided in a double row on the outer peripheral surface of the hub 2, respectively, A plurality of moving bodies 3 and 3 are provided so as to freely roll. A preload is applied to each of the rolling elements 3 and 3 together with contact angles that are opposite to each other (in the illustrated case, a rear combination type).

そして、上記ハブ２の軸方向中間部で複列に配置された上記各転動体３、３の間部分に、円筒状のエンコーダ６を外嵌固定している。又、上記外輪１の中間部で複列に配置された上記各転動体３、３同士の間部分に１対のセンサ７、７を支持固定すると共に、これら両センサ７、７の検出部を、上記エンコーダ６の被検出面である外周面に近接対向させている。尚、上記１対のセンサ７、７の検出部にはそれぞれ、ホールＩＣ、ホール素子、ＭＲ素子、ＧＭＲ素子等の磁気検知素子を組み込んでいる。   A cylindrical encoder 6 is externally fitted and fixed between the rolling elements 3 and 3 arranged in a double row at the intermediate portion in the axial direction of the hub 2. In addition, a pair of sensors 7 and 7 are supported and fixed between the rolling elements 3 and 3 arranged in a double row in the middle portion of the outer ring 1, and the detection portions of both the sensors 7 and 7 are provided. The encoder 6 is placed in close proximity to the outer peripheral surface, which is the detected surface. Note that magnetic detection elements such as a Hall IC, a Hall element, an MR element, and a GMR element are incorporated in the detection portions of the pair of sensors 7 and 7, respectively.

上記エンコーダ６は、図１２〜１３に示す様に、永久磁石により全体を円筒状に構成すると共に、軟鋼板等の磁性金属板により全体を円筒状に構成した芯金８の外周面に、全周に亙り添着固定している。そして、この芯金８を上記ハブ２の軸方向中間部に締り嵌めで外嵌固定している。又、上記エンコーダ６の被検出面である外周面には、Ｎ極に着磁した部分とＳ極に着磁した部分とを、円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置している。これらＮ極に着磁された部分とＳ極に着磁された部分との境界は、上記エンコーダ６の軸方向（上記被検出面の幅方向）に対し同じ角度だけ傾斜させると共に、この軸方向に対する傾斜方向を、このエンコーダ６の軸方向中間部を境に互いに逆方向としている。従って、上記Ｎ極に着磁された部分とＳ極に着磁された部分とは、軸方向中間部が円周方向に関して最も突出した（又は凹んだ）、「く」字形となっている。   As shown in FIGS. 12 to 13, the encoder 6 is entirely formed of a permanent magnet in a cylindrical shape, and is entirely formed on the outer peripheral surface of a cored bar 8 formed of a magnetic metal plate such as a mild steel plate in a cylindrical shape. It is fixed around the circumference. Then, the metal core 8 is externally fitted and fixed to the intermediate portion in the axial direction of the hub 2 by an interference fit. Further, on the outer peripheral surface, which is the detection surface of the encoder 6, the portions magnetized in the N pole and the portions magnetized in the S pole are alternately arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. The boundary between the part magnetized in the N pole and the part magnetized in the S pole is inclined by the same angle with respect to the axial direction of the encoder 6 (width direction of the detected surface), and this axial direction Are inclined in opposite directions with respect to the intermediate portion of the encoder 6 in the axial direction. Therefore, the portion magnetized in the N pole and the portion magnetized in the S pole have a “<” shape with the axially middle portion protruding (or recessed) most in the circumferential direction.

又、上記両センサ７、７の検出部が上記エンコーダ６の外周面に対向する位置は、このエンコーダ６の円周方向に関して同じ位置としている。言い換えれば、上記両センサ７、７の検出部は、上記外輪１の中心軸を含む同一仮想平面上に配置されている。又、この外輪１と上記ハブ２との間にアキシアル荷重が作用しない状態で、上記Ｎ極に着磁された部分とＳ極に着磁された部分との軸方向中間部で円周方向に関して最も突出した部分（境界の傾斜方向が変化する部分）が、上記両センサ７、７の検出部同士の間の丁度中央位置に存在する様に、各部材６、７、７の設置位置を規制している。尚、この様な先発明の第１例の場合には、上記エンコーダ６として永久磁石製のものを使用しているので、上記両センサ７、７側に永久磁石を組み込む必要はない。   Further, the positions where the detection portions of the sensors 7 and 7 face the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6 are the same with respect to the circumferential direction of the encoder 6. In other words, the detection parts of the sensors 7 and 7 are arranged on the same virtual plane including the central axis of the outer ring 1. Further, in the state where the axial load is not applied between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2, the axial direction intermediate portion between the portion magnetized in the N pole and the portion magnetized in the S pole is related to the circumferential direction. The installation position of each member 6, 7, 7 is regulated so that the most protruding part (the part in which the tilt direction of the boundary changes) is exactly at the center position between the detection parts of both sensors 7, 7. is doing. In the case of the first example of such a prior invention, since the encoder 6 is made of a permanent magnet, it is not necessary to incorporate a permanent magnet on both the sensors 7 and 7 side.

上述の様に構成する先発明の第１例の場合、上記外輪１とハブ２との間にアキシアル荷重が作用すると、上記両センサ７、７の出力信号が変化する位相がずれる。即ち、上記外輪１とハブ２との間にアキシアル荷重が作用しておらず、これら外輪１とハブ２とが相対変位していない、中立状態では、上記両センサ７、７の検出部は、図１４の（Ａ）の実線イ、イ上、即ち、上記最も突出した部分から軸方向に同じだけずれた部分に対向する。従って、上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相は、同図の（Ｃ）に示す様に一致する。   In the case of the first example of the prior invention configured as described above, when an axial load is applied between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2, the phase in which the output signals of the sensors 7, 7 change is shifted. That is, in the neutral state in which an axial load is not acting between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 and the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 are not relatively displaced, the detection units of the sensors 7 and 7 are It is opposed to the solid lines a and b in FIG. 14A, that is, the portion that is shifted from the most protruding portion by the same amount in the axial direction. Accordingly, the phases of the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 coincide as shown in FIG.

これに対して、上記エンコーダ６を固定したハブ２に、図１４の（Ａ）で下向きのアキシアル荷重が作用（上記外輪１に対し上記ハブ２が軸方向に変位）した場合には、上記両センサ７、７の検出部は、図１４の（Ａ）の破線ロ、ロ上、即ち、上記最も突出した部分からの軸方向に関するずれが互いに異なる部分に対向する。この状態では上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相は、同図の（Ｂ）に示す様にずれる。更に、上記エンコーダ６を固定したハブ２に、図１４の（Ａ）で上向きのアキシアル荷重が作用した場合には、上記両センサ７、７の検出部は、図１４の（Ａ）の鎖線ハ、ハ上、即ち、上記最も突出した部分からの軸方向に関するずれが、逆方向に互いに異なる部分に対向する。この状態では上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相は、同図の（Ｄ）に示す様にずれる。   In contrast, when a downward axial load acts on the hub 2 to which the encoder 6 is fixed in FIG. 14A (the hub 2 is displaced in the axial direction with respect to the outer ring 1), The detection portions of the sensors 7 and 7 are opposed to the portions indicated by broken lines B and B in FIG. 14A, that is, portions having different axial displacements from the most protruding portion. In this state, the phases of the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 are shifted as shown in FIG. Further, when an upward axial load is applied to the hub 2 to which the encoder 6 is fixed as shown in FIG. 14A, the detecting portions of both the sensors 7 and 7 are connected to the chain line hatch shown in FIG. , C, that is, the deviation in the axial direction from the most projecting portion opposes different portions in the opposite direction. In this state, the phases of the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 are shifted as shown in FIG.

上述の様に、先発明の第１例の場合には、上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相が、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に加わるアキシアル荷重の作用方向に応じた方向にずれる。又、このアキシアル荷重により上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相がずれる程度（変位量）は、このアキシアル荷重が大きくなる程大きくなる。従って、先発明の第１例の場合には、上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相ずれの有無、ずれが存在する場合にはその方向及び大きさに基づいて、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に作用しているアキシアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを求められる。尚、上記両センサ７、７の出力信号の位相差に基づいて上記アキシアル荷重を算出する処理は、図示しない演算器により行なう。この為、この演算器には、予め理論計算や実験により調べておいた上記位相差と上記アキシアル荷重との関係を、計算式やマップ等の形式で組み込んでおく。   As described above, in the case of the first example of the prior invention, the phases of the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 are in a direction corresponding to the direction of action of the axial load applied between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2. Shift. In addition, the degree of displacement (displacement amount) of the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 due to the axial load increases as the axial load increases. Therefore, in the case of the first example of the prior invention, the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 are based on the presence or absence of the phase shift of the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 and, if there is a shift, the direction and magnitude. The acting direction and magnitude of the axial load acting between the two are obtained. Note that the processing for calculating the axial load based on the phase difference between the output signals of the sensors 7 and 7 is performed by an arithmetic unit (not shown). For this reason, in this computing unit, the relationship between the phase difference and the axial load, which have been examined in advance by theoretical calculation or experiment, is incorporated in the form of a calculation formula or a map.

上述した先発明の第１例の場合には、永久磁石製のエンコーダ６を使用しているが、これに代えて、図１５に示す様な、磁性材製のエンコーダ６ａを使用する事もできる。被検出面である、このエンコーダ６ａの外周面には、スリット状の透孔９ａ、９ｂ（除肉部）と柱部１０ａ、１０ｂ（中実部）とを、円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置している。これら各透孔９ａ、９ｂと各柱部１０ａ、１０ｂとは、上記エンコーダ６ａの軸方向に対し同じ角度だけ傾斜させると共に、この軸方向に対する傾斜方向を、このエンコーダ６ａの軸方向中間部を境に互いに逆方向としている。即ち、このエンコーダ６ａは、軸方向片半部に、上記軸方向に対し所定方向に同じだけ傾斜した透孔９ａ、９ａを形成すると共に、軸方向他半部に、この所定方向と逆方向に同じ角度だけ傾斜した透孔９ｂ、９ｂを形成している。   In the case of the first example of the above-described prior invention, the permanent magnet encoder 6 is used, but instead, a magnetic material encoder 6a as shown in FIG. 15 may be used. . On the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6a, which is a detected surface, slit-shaped through holes 9a and 9b (thickening portions) and column portions 10a and 10b (solid portions) are alternately and equally arranged in the circumferential direction. Arranged at intervals. The through holes 9a and 9b and the pillars 10a and 10b are inclined by the same angle with respect to the axial direction of the encoder 6a, and the inclined direction with respect to the axial direction is bordered by the axial intermediate portion of the encoder 6a. Are in opposite directions. That is, the encoder 6a is formed with through holes 9a, 9a inclined in the same direction with respect to the axial direction in one half of the axial direction, and in the opposite half of the predetermined direction in the other half of the axial direction. Through holes 9b, 9b inclined by the same angle are formed.

上述の様なエンコーダ６ａは、図１１に示した第１例と同様に、ハブ２の軸方向中間部に外嵌固定し、外輪１（図１１参照）の軸方向中間部に設置した１対のセンサの検出部を、上記エンコーダ６ａの外周面に、軸方向に間隔をあけて近接対向させる。尚、この様な先発明の第２例の場合には、上記エンコーダ６ａが単なる磁性材製である為、上記１対のセンサの側に永久磁石を組み込む。この様な先発明の第２例の場合も、上述した先発明の第１例の場合と同様の作用により、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に作用しているアキシアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを求められる。   As in the first example shown in FIG. 11, the encoder 6 a as described above is a pair of externally fitted and fixed to the axially intermediate portion of the hub 2 and installed in the axially intermediate portion of the outer ring 1 (see FIG. 11). The detection part of this sensor is closely opposed to the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6a with an interval in the axial direction. In the case of such a second example of the prior invention, since the encoder 6a is made of a simple magnetic material, a permanent magnet is incorporated on the side of the pair of sensors. In the case of the second example of the prior invention, the direction and magnitude of the axial load acting between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 are the same as in the case of the first example of the prior invention. You are asked for it.

又、上述の図１５に示したエンコーダ６ａは、互いに独立した透孔９ａ、９ｂを「ハ」字形に配置しているが、図１６に示した先発明の第３例の様に、連続した「ヘ」字形の透孔９ｃ、９ｃを、円周方向に亙り等間隔に配置したエンコーダ６ｂを使用する事もできる。尚、図１６に示した構造の場合には、１対の磁気検出素子１１、１１と１個の永久磁石１２とを単一のホルダ１３の先端部に包埋支持して、１対のセンサとして機能する、一体型のセンサユニットを構成している。外輪１とハブ２との間に作用するアキシアル荷重を求める機能に就いては、前述した第１例、或いは、上述した第２例と同様である。又、上述した先発明の第２〜３例で、透孔を凹部とし、柱部を凸部とする構造を採用する場合も、同様の作用を得られる。   In the encoder 6a shown in FIG. 15 described above, the through holes 9a and 9b that are independent from each other are arranged in a "C" shape. However, as in the third example of the prior invention shown in FIG. It is also possible to use an encoder 6b in which “H” -shaped through holes 9c, 9c are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. In the case of the structure shown in FIG. 16, a pair of magnetic detection elements 11, 11 and a single permanent magnet 12 are embedded and supported at the tip of a single holder 13. An integrated sensor unit is configured. The function for obtaining the axial load acting between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 is the same as in the first example described above or the second example described above. Further, in the above-described second to third examples of the present invention, the same effect can be obtained when a structure in which the through hole is a concave portion and the column portion is a convex portion is employed.

尚、上述した各先発明では、エンコーダの被検出面の幅方向両半部でそれぞれ、第一特性部（Ｎ極、透孔、凹部）と第二特性部（Ｓ極、柱部、凸部）との境界を、上記被検出面の幅方向に対し傾斜させる構成を採用した。これに対し、検出精度は劣るが、エンコーダの被検出面の幅方向片半部の境界のみを幅方向に対し傾斜させ、幅方向他半部の境界を幅方向に対し傾斜させない（幅方向に対し平行にする）構成を採用する場合も、同様の作用を得られる。   In each of the above-described prior inventions, the first characteristic portion (N pole, through-hole, concave portion) and the second characteristic portion (S pole, column portion, convex portion) are respectively provided in both half portions of the detected surface of the encoder in the width direction. ) Is used to incline the boundary with respect to the width direction of the detected surface. On the other hand, although the detection accuracy is inferior, only the boundary of one half of the width direction of the detected surface of the encoder is inclined with respect to the width direction, and the boundary of the other half of the width direction is not inclined with respect to the width direction (in the width direction). A similar effect can be obtained when a parallel configuration is adopted.

次に、図１７〜１９は、先発明の第４例を示している。この先発明の第４例の場合も、ハブ２の軸方向中間部で複列に配置された複数個の転動体３、３の間部分に円筒状のエンコーダ６ｃを、このハブ２と同心に外嵌固定している。又、外輪１の軸方向中間部で複列に配置された複数個の転動体３、３の間部分に１つのセンサ７を支持固定すると共に、このセンサ７の検出部を、上記エンコーダ６ｃの被検出面である外周面に近接対向させている。尚、上記センサ７の検出部には、ホールＩＣ、ホール素子、ＭＲ素子、ＧＭＲ素子等の磁気検知素子を組み込んでいる。   Next, FIGS. 17 to 19 show a fourth example of the prior invention. Also in the case of the fourth example of the prior invention, a cylindrical encoder 6 c is provided between the plurality of rolling elements 3, 3 arranged in a double row in the axial direction intermediate portion of the hub 2, and is arranged concentrically with the hub 2. It is fitted and fixed. In addition, one sensor 7 is supported and fixed between the plurality of rolling elements 3 and 3 arranged in a double row at the axially intermediate portion of the outer ring 1, and the detection portion of the sensor 7 is connected to the encoder 6c. It is made to face and face the outer peripheral surface that is the surface to be detected. Note that a magnetic sensing element such as a Hall IC, a Hall element, an MR element, or a GMR element is incorporated in the detection portion of the sensor 7.

上記エンコーダ６ｃは、図１８（Ｂ）に示す様に、軟鋼板等の磁性金属板により全体を円筒状に構成した芯金８の外周面に、図１８（Ａ）に示した様な永久磁石製の素材を円筒状に丸めたものを、全周に亙り添着固定している。そして、この芯金８を上記ハブ２の軸方向中間部に、締り嵌めで外嵌固定している。又、上記エンコーダ６ｃの被検出面である外周面には、Ｎ極に着磁した部分（第一特性部）とＳ極に着磁した部分（第二特性部）とを、円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置している。そして、これらＮ極に着磁された部分とＳ極に着磁された部分との境界の形状を、上記エンコーダ６ｃの軸方向（上記被検出面の幅方向）に対し同じ角度だけ傾斜した直線形状とすると共に、円周方向に隣り合う各境界同士で、軸方向に対する傾斜方向を互いに逆にしている。これにより、上記Ｎ極に着磁された部分の円周方向に関する幅を軸方向片側｛図１８（Ｂ）の下側｝程広くし、且つ、上記Ｓ極に着磁された部分の円周方向に関する幅を軸方向他側｛図１８（Ｂ）の上側｝程広くしている。尚、この様な先発明の第４例の場合も、上記エンコーダ６ｃとして永久磁石製のものを使用しているので、上記センサ７側に永久磁石を組み込む必要はない。   As shown in FIG. 18 (B), the encoder 6c has a permanent magnet as shown in FIG. 18 (A) on the outer peripheral surface of a cored bar 8 made of a magnetic metal plate such as a mild steel plate. A material made of a round material is rolled and attached around the entire circumference. The core 8 is externally fixed to the axially intermediate portion of the hub 2 by an interference fit. In addition, on the outer peripheral surface, which is the detection surface of the encoder 6c, a portion magnetized in the N pole (first characteristic portion) and a portion magnetized in the S pole (second characteristic portion) in the circumferential direction. They are arranged alternately and at equal intervals. A straight line in which the shape of the boundary between the part magnetized in the N pole and the part magnetized in the S pole is inclined at the same angle with respect to the axial direction of the encoder 6c (the width direction of the detected surface). In addition to the shape, the inclination directions with respect to the axial direction are opposite to each other at the boundaries adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. As a result, the width in the circumferential direction of the portion magnetized in the N pole is increased toward one axial side {lower side in FIG. 18B), and the circumference of the portion magnetized in the S pole The width in the direction is made wider toward the other side in the axial direction {upper side in FIG. 18B). In the case of the fourth example of the prior invention as described above, since the encoder 6c is made of a permanent magnet, it is not necessary to incorporate a permanent magnet on the sensor 7 side.

上述の様に構成する先発明の第４例の場合、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に加わるアキシアル荷重が作用すると、上記センサの出力信号のパターンが変化する。即ち、上記外輪１とハブ２との間にアキシアル荷重が作用しておらず、これら外輪１とハブ２とが相対変位していない、中立状態では、上記センサ７の検出部は、図１９の（Ａ）の鎖線α上、即ち、上記エンコーダ６ｃの外周面の幅方向中央部分に対向する。この結果、上記センサ７の出力信号（矩形波信号）のデューティ比（＝高電位継続時間／１周期）は、図１９の（Ｂ）に示す様に５０％となる。これに対して、上記エンコーダ６を固定したハブ２に、図１９の（Ａ）で上向きのアキシアル荷重が作用（上記外輪１に対し上記ハブ２が軸方向に変位）した場合には、上記センサ７の検出部は、図１９の（Ａ）の鎖線β上、即ち、上記エンコーダ６ｃの外周面のうち、幅方向中央部よりも下側にずれた部分に対向する。この結果、上記センサ７の出力信号のデューティ比は、図１９の（Ｃ）に示す様に、５０％からずれた値（図示の例では３０％）となる。更に、上記エンコーダ６ｃを固定したハブ２に、図１９の（Ａ）で下向きのアキシアル荷重が作用した場合には、上記センサ７の検出部は、図１９の（Ａ）の鎖線γ上、即ち、上記エンコーダ６ｃの外周面のうち、幅方向中央部よりも上側にずれた部分に対向する。この結果、上記センサ７の出力信号のデューティ比は、図１９（Ｄ）に示す様に、５０％から逆方向にずれた値（図示の例では７０％）となる。   In the case of the fourth example of the prior invention configured as described above, when an axial load applied between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 acts, the pattern of the output signal of the sensor changes. That is, in the neutral state where an axial load is not applied between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 and the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 are not relatively displaced, the detection unit of the sensor 7 is shown in FIG. Opposite the chain line α in (A), that is, the central portion in the width direction of the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6c. As a result, the duty ratio (= high potential duration / one cycle) of the output signal (rectangular wave signal) of the sensor 7 is 50% as shown in FIG. On the other hand, when the axial load acting upward in FIG. 19A acts on the hub 2 to which the encoder 6 is fixed (the hub 2 is displaced in the axial direction with respect to the outer ring 1), the sensor 7 is opposed to a portion on the chain line β in FIG. 19A, that is, a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6c that is shifted downward from the central portion in the width direction. As a result, the duty ratio of the output signal of the sensor 7 is a value deviated from 50% (30% in the illustrated example) as shown in FIG. Further, when a downward axial load is applied to the hub 2 to which the encoder 6c is fixed in FIG. 19A, the detecting portion of the sensor 7 is on the chain line γ in FIG. The outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6c is opposed to a portion shifted to the upper side from the central portion in the width direction. As a result, the duty ratio of the output signal of the sensor 7 is a value deviated from 50% in the reverse direction (70% in the illustrated example) as shown in FIG.

上述の様に、先発明の第４例の場合には、上記センサ７の出力信号のデューティ比が、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に加わるアキシアル荷重の作用方向に応じた方向にずれる。又、このアキシアル荷重により上記センサ７の出力信号のデューティ比がずれる程度（変位量）は、このアキシアル荷重が大きくなる程大きくなる。従って、先発明の第４例の場合には、上記センサ７の出力信号のデューティ比のずれの有無、ずれが存在する場合にはその方向及び大きさに基づいて、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に作用しているアキシアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを求められる。尚、上記センサ７の出力信号のデューティ比に基づいて上記アキシアル荷重を算出する処理は、図示しない演算器により行なう。この為、この演算器には、予め理論計算や実験により調べておいた上記デューティ比と上記アキシアル荷重との関係を、計算式やマップ等の形式で組み込んでおく。   As described above, in the case of the fourth example of the present invention, the duty ratio of the output signal of the sensor 7 is shifted in the direction corresponding to the acting direction of the axial load applied between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2. Further, the degree to which the duty ratio of the output signal of the sensor 7 deviates due to this axial load (displacement amount) increases as the axial load increases. Therefore, in the case of the fourth example of the present invention, the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 are determined based on the presence / absence of the duty ratio deviation of the output signal of the sensor 7 and the direction and magnitude of the deviation, if any. The acting direction and magnitude of the axial load acting during The processing for calculating the axial load based on the duty ratio of the output signal of the sensor 7 is performed by an arithmetic unit (not shown). For this reason, in this computing unit, the relationship between the duty ratio and the axial load, which has been examined in advance by theoretical calculation or experiment, is incorporated in the form of a calculation formula or a map.

上述した先発明の第４例の場合には、永久磁石製のエンコーダ６ｃを使用しているが、これに代えて、図２０に示す様な、磁性材製のエンコーダ６ｄを使用する事もできる。被検出面である、このエンコーダ４ｂの外周面には、第一特性部である凹部１４、１４（除肉部）と、第二特性部である凸部１５、１５（中実部）とを、円周方向に関して交互に配置している。これら各凹部１４、１４と凸部１５、１５とは、径方向から見た形状を台形として、それぞれの円周方向に関する幅寸法を、軸方向に関して漸次変化させている。この様なエンコーダ６ｄは、図１７に示した第４例と同様に、ハブ２の軸方向中間部に外嵌固定し、外輪１（図１７参照）の軸方向中間部に設置した１つのセンサの検出部を、上記エンコーダ６ｄの外周面に近接対向させる。尚、この様な先発明の第５例の場合には、上記エンコーダ６ｄが単なる磁性材製である為、上記センサの側に永久磁石を組み込む。この様な先発明の第５例の場合も、上述した先発明の第４例の場合と同様の作用により、上記外輪１とハブ２との間に作用しているアキシアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを求められる。又、上述した先発明の第５例で、凹部を透孔とし、凸部を柱部とする構造を採用する場合も、同様の作用を得られる。   In the case of the above-described fourth example of the invention, the permanent magnet encoder 6c is used, but instead, a magnetic material encoder 6d as shown in FIG. 20 can be used. . On the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 4b, which is the detected surface, there are concave portions 14 and 14 (thickening portions) that are first characteristic portions and convex portions 15 and 15 (solid portions) that are second characteristic portions. These are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. Each of the concave portions 14 and 14 and the convex portions 15 and 15 has a trapezoidal shape as viewed from the radial direction, and gradually changes the width dimension in the circumferential direction in the axial direction. As in the fourth example shown in FIG. 17, such an encoder 6 d is one sensor that is externally fitted and fixed to the intermediate portion in the axial direction of the hub 2 and installed in the intermediate portion in the axial direction of the outer ring 1 (see FIG. 17). Is made to face and face the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6d. In the case of the fifth example of the prior invention, since the encoder 6d is made of a simple magnetic material, a permanent magnet is incorporated on the sensor side. In the case of the fifth example of the prior invention as described above, the action direction and magnitude of the axial load acting between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2 are the same as in the case of the fourth example of the prior invention. You are asked for it. Further, in the above-described fifth example of the prior invention, the same effect can be obtained when adopting a structure in which the concave portion is a through hole and the convex portion is a column portion.

上述した各先発明の場合には、エンコーダを円筒状に構成すると共に、このエンコーダの外周面を被検出面とし、且つ、この被検出面に１対の又は１つのセンサの検出部を径方向に対向させる構成を採用する事により、外輪とハブとの間に作用しているアキシアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを測定可能としている。これに対し、エンコーダを円輪状に構成すると共に、このエンコーダの側面を被検出面とし、且つ、この被検出面に１対の又は１つのセンサの検出部を軸方向に対向させる構成を採用すれば、外輪とハブとの間に作用しているラジアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを測定できる。   In the case of each of the above-described prior inventions, the encoder is configured in a cylindrical shape, the outer peripheral surface of the encoder is a detected surface, and the detection unit of one pair or one sensor is radially disposed on the detected surface. By adopting a configuration that opposes the shaft, it is possible to measure the direction and magnitude of the axial load acting between the outer ring and the hub. On the other hand, a configuration is adopted in which the encoder is configured in a ring shape, the side surface of the encoder is a detected surface, and the detection unit of one pair or one sensor is opposed to the detected surface in the axial direction. For example, the acting direction and magnitude of the radial load acting between the outer ring and the hub can be measured.

ところで、上述した各先発明の対象となる車輪支持用軸受ユニット（図１１、１６、１７）は、重量が嵩まない自動車の従動輪（ＦＦ車の後輪、ＦＲ車の前輪）をする為のものであって、複数個の転動体３、３として玉を使用している。この様な各先発明の対象となる車輪支持用軸受ユニットの場合には、列間（複列に配置された複数個の転動体３、３の間部分）に、荷重測定装置を構成するエンコーダ及びセンサを配置する為の、十分なスペースが存在する。この為、上述した各先発明の場合には、上記エンコーダ及びセンサの寸法を十分に大きくできて、荷重の測定精度を十分に確保できる。   By the way, the wheel support bearing unit (FIGS. 11, 16, and 17), which is the subject of each of the above-described prior inventions, is a driven wheel (rear wheel of FF vehicle, front wheel of FR vehicle) that does not increase in weight. The ball is used as the plurality of rolling elements 3 and 3. In the case of such a wheel support bearing unit that is the subject of each of the prior inventions, an encoder that constitutes a load measuring device between rows (a portion between a plurality of rolling elements 3, 3 arranged in double rows) And there is sufficient space to place the sensors. For this reason, in each of the above-described prior inventions, the dimensions of the encoder and sensor can be sufficiently increased, and the load measurement accuracy can be sufficiently ensured.

一方、図２１に示す車輪支持用軸受ユニットは、重量が嵩む自動車の駆動輪（ＦＦ車の前輪、ＦＲ車の後輪、４ＷＤ車の全車輪）を支持する為のものであって、複数個の転動体３ａ、３ａとして円すいころを使用している。又、ハブ２ａの中心部に、スプライン孔１６を設けている。そして、図示の様に自動車に組み付けた状態で、懸架装置を構成するナックル１７に外輪１を結合固定すると共に、等速ジョイント１８のスプライン軸１９（駆動軸）を、上記スプライン孔１６にスプライン係合させている。この様な車輪支持用軸受ユニットの場合には、上述した各先発明の対象となる車輪支持用軸受ユニットに比べて、列間のスペースが狭い。この様なスペースの狭い列間に上記エンコーダ及びセンサを配置する事は難しく、仮に配置した場合でも、これらエンコーダ及びセンサの寸法が過小になって、荷重の測定範囲を十分に確保する事が難しくなる。   On the other hand, the wheel-supporting bearing unit shown in FIG. 21 is for supporting the driving wheels of a heavy automobile (front wheels of FF vehicles, rear wheels of FR vehicles, all wheels of 4WD vehicles). Tapered rollers are used as the rolling elements 3a and 3a. A spline hole 16 is provided at the center of the hub 2a. Then, the outer ring 1 is coupled and fixed to the knuckle 17 constituting the suspension device in the state assembled to the automobile as shown in the figure, and the spline shaft 19 (drive shaft) of the constant velocity joint 18 is connected to the spline hole 16 by the spline. It is combined. In the case of such a wheel support bearing unit, the space between the rows is narrower than the wheel support bearing unit that is the subject of each of the above-described prior inventions. It is difficult to arrange the encoders and sensors between rows with such a small space, and even if they are arranged, the dimensions of these encoders and sensors become too small to ensure a sufficient load measurement range. Become.

尚、複列転がり軸受ユニットの列間のスペースの広狭は、従動輪用、駆動輪用の種別や、転動体の種類により、一義的に決定されるものではない。最終的には、当該複列転がり軸受ユニットに要求される具体的な性能等との関係で、列間のスペースの広狭が決定される。何れにしても、列間のスペースが狭い複列転がり軸受ユニットを対象とする場合には、上述した様な不都合を生じる事となる。   It should be noted that the width of the space between the rows of the double row rolling bearing units is not uniquely determined by the type for the driven wheel or the drive wheel or the type of the rolling element. Ultimately, the width of the space between rows is determined in relation to the specific performance required for the double row rolling bearing unit. In any case, in the case of a double row rolling bearing unit in which the space between rows is narrow, the above-described disadvantages occur.

特開２００５−３１０６３号公報JP 2005-31063 A 青山元男著、「レッドバッジスーパー図解シリーズ／クルマの最新メカがわかる本」、ｐ．１３８−１３９、ｐ．１４６−１４９、株式会社三推社／株式会社講談社、平成１３年１２月２０日Motoo Aoyama, “Red Badge Super Illustrated Series / A book that shows the latest mechanics of cars”, p. 138-139, p. 146-149, Sangensha Co., Ltd./Kodansha Co., Ltd., December 20, 2001

本発明の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットは、上述の様な事情に鑑み、列間のスペースが狭い複列転がり軸受ユニットを対象とする場合でも、荷重の測定範囲を十分に確保しつつ、エンコーダ及びセンサを容易に配置できる構造を実現すべく発明したものである。   The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to the present invention is an encoder that ensures a sufficient load measurement range even in the case of a double-row rolling bearing unit with a narrow space between rows. Invented to realize a structure in which the sensor can be easily arranged.

本発明の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットは、転がり軸受ユニットと、荷重測定装置とを備える。
このうちの転がり軸受ユニットは、静止側周面に複列の静止側軌道を有し、使用時にも回転しない静止側軌道輪と、回転側周面に複列の回転側軌道を有し、使用時に回転する回転側軌道輪と、上記各静止側軌道と上記各回転側軌道との間にそれぞれ複数個ずつ転動自在に設けられた転動体とを備える。
又、上記荷重測定装置は、エンコーダと、センサと、演算器とを備える。
このうちのエンコーダは、上記回転側軌道輪又はこの回転側軌道輪と共に回転する部材の一部で、軸方向に関して複列の回転側軌道及びこれら両回転側軌道同士の間部分から外れた部分に支持固定又は固設されている。そして、上記回転側軌道輪と同心に設けた被検出面の特性を、円周方向に関して交互に変化させると共に、この被検出面の特性が円周方向に関して変化する位相若しくはピッチを、この被検出面の幅方向の少なくとも一部で、この幅方向に応じて連続的に変化させている。
又、上記センサは、検出部を上記被検出面に対向させた状態で、使用時にも回転しない部分に支持されている。そして、上記被検出面の特性変化に対応して出力信号を変化させる。
又、上記演算器は、上記センサの出力信号が変化するパターンに基づいて、上記静止側軌道輪と上記回転側軌道輪との間に加わる荷重を算出する機能を有する。 The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of the present invention includes a rolling bearing unit and a load measuring device.
Of these, the rolling bearing unit has a double-row stationary raceway on the stationary peripheral surface, a stationary raceway that does not rotate during use, and a double-row rotational raceway on the rotational peripheral surface. A rotation-side raceway that rotates at times; and a plurality of rolling elements provided between the stationary-side raceways and the rotation-side raceways.
The load measuring device includes an encoder, a sensor, and a calculator.
Among these, the encoder is a part of the rotating side raceway or the member that rotates together with the rotational side raceway. Support fixed or fixed. Then, the characteristics of the detected surface provided concentrically with the rotating side raceway are alternately changed in the circumferential direction, and the phase or pitch at which the characteristics of the detected surface change in the circumferential direction is detected. At least a part of the width direction of the surface is continuously changed according to the width direction.
In addition, the sensor is supported by a portion that does not rotate during use in a state where the detection unit faces the detection surface. And an output signal is changed corresponding to the characteristic change of the said to-be-detected surface.
The computing unit has a function of calculating a load applied between the stationary side raceway and the rotation side raceway based on a pattern in which the output signal of the sensor changes.

又、上述の請求項１に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットを実施する場合には、例えば請求項２に記載した様に、エンコーダを、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材に支持固定又は固設すると共に、センサを、固定側軌道輪である外輪相当部材に支持固定する構成を採用する事ができる。
又、上述の請求項１〜２に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項３に記載した様に、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材の一端部を、静止側軌道輪である外輪相当部材の径方向内側から軸方向に突出させると共に、エンコーダを、上記内輪相当部材の一端部のうち上記外輪相当部材の径方向内側から軸方向に突出した部分に支持固定又は固設する構成を採用する事ができる。 Further, when the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device described in claim 1 described above is implemented, for example, as described in claim 2, the encoder is supported and fixed to an inner ring equivalent member that is a rotating side race ring. In addition to being fixed, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the sensor is supported and fixed to an outer ring equivalent member that is a stationary raceway.
When carrying out the invention described in claims 1 and 2 described above, for example, as described in claim 3, one end of the inner ring equivalent member that is the rotation side raceway is a stationary side raceway. A structure in which the outer ring equivalent member protrudes in the axial direction from the radial inner side, and the encoder is supported, fixed, or fixed to a portion of the one end portion of the inner ring equivalent member protruding in the axial direction from the radial inner side of the outer ring equivalent member. Can be adopted.

又、上述の請求項１〜３に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項４に記載した様に、エンコーダを、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材に、直接又は芯金等の別部材を介して、圧入により嵌合固定する構成を採用する事ができる。
又、上述の請求項１〜４に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項５に記載した様に、エンコーダを、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材の外周面と静止側軌道輪である外輪相当部材の内周面との間に存在する空間の端部開口を塞ぐ状態で設けられたシール装置の構成部材と一体に設ける構成を採用する事ができる。
又、上述の請求項１〜３に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項６に記載した様に、エンコーダを、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材の表面に一体形成する構成を採用する事ができる。 Further, when the invention described in claims 1 to 3 described above is carried out, as described in claim 4, for example, the encoder is directly or directly attached to a member corresponding to the inner ring which is a rotating side race. It is possible to adopt a configuration in which fitting and fixing are performed by press-fitting through another member.
When the inventions described in claims 1 to 4 described above are carried out, for example, as described in claim 5, the encoder is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring equivalent member that is the rotation side raceway and the stationary side raceway. The structure provided integrally with the structural member of the sealing device provided in the state which block | closes the edge part opening of the space which exists between the inner peripheral surfaces of the outer ring equivalent members which are can be employ | adopted.
Further, when the invention described in the first to third aspects is carried out, for example, as described in the sixth aspect, the encoder is integrally formed on the surface of the inner ring equivalent member which is the rotating side race. Can be adopted.

又、上述の請求項１〜６に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項７に記載した様に、エンコーダの被検出面に、互いに異なる特性を有する第一特性部と第二特性部とを、円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置する。これと共に、これら第一、第二両特性部の境界を、少なくとも上記被検出面の幅方向の一部（片半部）で、この被検出面の幅方向に対し傾斜させる。且つ、この境界のこの幅方向に対する傾斜方向又は傾斜角度を、上記被検出面の幅方向中間部を境に（幅方向片半部と他半部とで）互いに異ならせる。又、センサを、それぞれの検出部を上記被検出面のうちこの被検出面の幅方向中間部を挟んでこの幅方向に離隔した２個所位置に対向させた、１対のセンサとする。又、演算器を、これら１対のセンサの出力信号の位相差に基づいて、静止側軌道輪と回転側軌道輪との間に加わる荷重を算出する機能を有するものとする。   Further, when the inventions described in the first to sixth aspects are carried out, for example, as described in the seventh aspect, the first characteristic portion and the second characteristic having different characteristics on the detected surface of the encoder. Are arranged alternately and at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. At the same time, the boundary between the first and second characteristic portions is inclined with respect to the width direction of the detected surface at least at a part (one half portion) in the width direction of the detected surface. In addition, the inclination direction or the inclination angle of the boundary with respect to the width direction is made different from each other (in the width direction half portion and the other half portion) with respect to the width direction intermediate portion of the detection surface. In addition, the sensors are a pair of sensors in which each detection unit is opposed to two positions separated in the width direction across the width direction intermediate portion of the detection surface among the detection surfaces. Further, the arithmetic unit has a function of calculating a load applied between the stationary side raceway and the rotation side raceway based on the phase difference between the output signals of the pair of sensors.

又、上述の請求項１〜６に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項８に記載した様に、エンコーダの被検出面に、互いに異なる特性を有する第一特性部と第二特性部とを、円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置する。これと共に、このうちの第一特性部の円周方向に関する幅を上記被検出面の幅方向片側程広くし、且つ、上記第二特性部の円周方向に関する幅をこの被検出面の幅方向他側程広くする。又、センサを、その検出部をこの被検出面の一部に対向させた、１つのセンサとする。又、演算器を、この１つのセンサの出力信号のデューティ比に基づいて、静止側軌道輪と回転側軌道輪との間に加わる荷重を算出する機能を有するものとする。   Further, when the invention described in claims 1 to 6 described above is implemented, for example, as described in claim 8, the first characteristic portion and the second characteristic having different characteristics on the detected surface of the encoder. Are arranged alternately and at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. At the same time, the width of the first characteristic portion in the circumferential direction of the first characteristic portion is increased toward one side in the width direction of the detected surface, and the width of the second characteristic portion in the circumferential direction is increased in the width direction of the detected surface. Make the other side wider. In addition, the sensor is a single sensor with its detection unit facing a part of the detected surface. Further, the computing unit has a function of calculating a load applied between the stationary side raceway and the rotation side raceway based on the duty ratio of the output signal of this one sensor.

又、上述の請求項１〜８に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項９に記載した様に、エンコーダを永久磁石製とし、且つ、第一特性部をＮ極とＳ極とのうちの一方の極に着磁された部分とし、且つ、第二特性部を同じく他方の極に着磁された部分とする構成を採用する事ができる。この様な構成を採用する場合、センサの検出部には、ホールＩＣ、ホール素子、ＭＲ素子、ＧＭＲ素子等の磁気検知素子を組み込む事が適切である。尚、上記エンコーダが永久磁石製である為、センサ側に永久磁石を組み込む必要はない。   Further, when carrying out the inventions described in the first to eighth aspects, for example, as described in the ninth aspect, the encoder is made of a permanent magnet, and the first characteristic portion includes the N pole and the S pole. It is possible to adopt a configuration in which one portion is magnetized to one of the poles and the second characteristic portion is similarly magnetized to the other pole. When such a configuration is adopted, it is appropriate to incorporate a magnetic detection element such as a Hall IC, a Hall element, an MR element, or a GMR element in the detection portion of the sensor. Since the encoder is made of a permanent magnet, it is not necessary to incorporate a permanent magnet on the sensor side.

又、上述の請求項１〜８に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項１０に記載した様に、エンコーダを磁性材製とし、且つ、第一特性部を中実部（透孔、凹部等）と除肉部（柱部、凸部等）とのうちの一方とし、且つ、第二特性部を中実部と除肉部とのうちの他方とする構成を採用する事ができる。この様な構成を採用する場合、センサの検出部には、ホールＩＣ、ホール素子、ＭＲ素子、ＧＭＲ素子等の磁気検知素子を組み込む事が適切である。更に、この場合、上記エンコーダが単なる磁性材製である為、センサ側に永久磁石を組み込む必要がある。   Further, when carrying out the invention described in claims 1 to 8 described above, for example, as described in claim 10, the encoder is made of a magnetic material, and the first characteristic portion is a solid portion (through hole). , Recesses, etc.) and a thinning part (column part, convex part, etc.) and adopting a configuration in which the second characteristic part is the other of the solid part and the thinning part. it can. When such a configuration is adopted, it is appropriate to incorporate a magnetic detection element such as a Hall IC, a Hall element, an MR element, or a GMR element in the detection portion of the sensor. Furthermore, in this case, since the encoder is simply made of a magnetic material, it is necessary to incorporate a permanent magnet on the sensor side.

又、上述の請求項１〜１０に記載した発明を実施する場合には、例えば請求項１１に記載した様に、転がり軸受ユニットを自動車の車輪支持用のハブユニットとし、使用状態で静止側軌道輪を自動車の懸架装置に支持し、回転側軌道輪であるハブに車輪を結合固定する構成を採用する事ができる。   When the inventions described in claims 1 to 10 described above are carried out, as described in claim 11, for example, the rolling bearing unit is a hub unit for supporting the wheel of an automobile, and the stationary-side track is in use. It is possible to adopt a configuration in which the wheel is supported by the suspension device of the automobile and the wheel is coupled and fixed to the hub that is the rotating raceway ring.

上述の様に構成する本発明の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットの場合には、列間（複列に設けられた複数個の転動体の間部分）以外の部分に、エンコーダ及びセンサを設置する。この為、列間のスペースが狭い転がり軸受ユニットを対象とする場合でも、例えば軸端（静止側軌道輪及び回転側軌道輪の端部）等の、十分に広いスペースを確保できる個所に上記エンコーダ及びセンサを設置すれば、これらエンコーダ及びセンサの寸法を十分に大きくできる。従って、列間のスペースが狭い転がり軸受ユニットを対象とする場合でも、荷重の測定範囲を十分に確保できる。   In the case of the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of the present invention configured as described above, an encoder and a sensor are installed in a portion other than between rows (a portion between a plurality of rolling elements provided in a double row). . For this reason, even when a rolling bearing unit with a narrow space between rows is targeted, the encoder is provided at a place where a sufficiently wide space can be secured, such as a shaft end (an end portion of a stationary bearing ring and a rotating bearing ring). If the sensors are installed, the dimensions of these encoders and sensors can be made sufficiently large. Accordingly, even when a rolling bearing unit with a narrow space between rows is targeted, a sufficient load measurement range can be secured.

［実施の形態の第１例］
図１〜２は、請求項１、２、４、５、７、１０、１１に対応する、本発明の実施の形態の第１例を示している。尚、本例の特徴は、車輪支持用軸受ユニットに対するエンコーダ６ｂ及び１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａの取付個所を工夫した点にある。この車輪支持用軸受ユニットの構造に就いては、前述の図２１に示した車輪支持用軸受ユニットと同様であり、又、上記エンコーダ６ｂと１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａとの組み合わせによりアキシアル荷重を測定する作用に就いては、前述の図１６に示した先発明の第３例の場合と同様である。この為、重複する図示並びに説明を省略若しくは簡略にし、以下、本例の特徴部分を中心に説明する。 [First example of embodiment]
1 and 2 show a first example of an embodiment of the present invention corresponding to claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 10, and 11. FIG. The feature of this example is that the attachment portion of the encoder 6b and the pair of sensors 7a, 7a to the wheel support bearing unit is devised. The structure of the wheel support bearing unit is the same as that of the wheel support bearing unit shown in FIG. 21 described above, and an axial load is applied by the combination of the encoder 6b and the pair of sensors 7a and 7a. The measuring action is the same as in the case of the third example of the prior invention shown in FIG. For this reason, overlapping illustrations and descriptions are omitted or simplified, and the following description will focus on the features of this example.

本例の場合、ハブ２ａの内端部（軸方向に関して「内」とは、自動車への組み付け状態で車両の幅方向中央側を言い、図１〜５の右側。反対に、自動車への組み付け状態で車両の幅方向外側となる図１〜５の左側を、軸方向に関して「外」と言う。本明細書全体で同じ。）に、磁性金属板により円筒状に形成したエンコーダ６ｂを、上記ハブ２ａと同心に支持固定している。又、外輪１の内端開口部に被着したセンサカバー２０の内側に、１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａを支持固定すると共に、これら両センサ７ａ、７ａの検出部を、上記エンコーダ６ｂの被検出面である外周面に近接対向させている。   In the case of this example, the inner end of the hub 2a ("inside" with respect to the axial direction means the center side in the width direction of the vehicle in the assembled state to the automobile, and the right side in Figs. 1 to 5. On the contrary, the assembly to the automobile 1-5, which is the outer side in the width direction of the vehicle in the state, is referred to as “outside” in the axial direction. The same applies to the entire specification.) The encoder 6b formed in a cylindrical shape by a magnetic metal plate is It is supported and fixed concentrically with the hub 2a. A pair of sensors 7a and 7a are supported and fixed inside the sensor cover 20 attached to the inner end opening of the outer ring 1, and the detection parts of both the sensors 7a and 7a are detected by the encoder 6b. The outer peripheral surface, which is a surface, is closely opposed.

本例の場合、上記外輪１の内端部内周面と上記ハブ２ａの内端部外周面との間部分には、この間部分を密閉する為の組み合わせシールリング２１が設けられている。本例の場合には、この様な構成で、この組み合わせシールリング２１の軸方向位置や大きさを変える事なく、上記エンコーダ６ｂを上記ハブ２ａの内端部に支持固定できる様にすべく、このエンコーダ６ｂを、上記組み合わせシールリング２１を構成する、上記ハブ２ａの内端部に圧入により外嵌固定した、スリンガ２２と一体的に形成している。又、前述の図１６に示した先発明の第３例の場合と同様、被検出面である、上記エンコーダ６ｂの外周面には、それぞれが「へ」字形のスリットである複数の透孔９ｃを、円周方向に関して等間隔で配置している。尚、これら「へ」字形の透孔９ｃに代えて、頂部を切り離した「ハ」字形の透孔を採用する事もできる。又、検出精度は劣るが、被検出面の幅方向片半部の透孔のみを幅方向に対し傾斜させ、幅方向他半部の透孔は幅方向に（平行に）形成する事もできる。   In the case of this example, a combination seal ring 21 is provided between the inner peripheral surface of the inner ring portion of the outer ring 1 and the outer peripheral surface of the inner end portion of the hub 2a for sealing the intermediate portion. In the case of the present example, in such a configuration, the encoder 6b can be supported and fixed to the inner end of the hub 2a without changing the axial position and size of the combined seal ring 21. The encoder 6b is formed integrally with a slinger 22 that is externally fitted and fixed to the inner end of the hub 2a constituting the combination seal ring 21 by press-fitting. Further, as in the case of the third example of the prior invention shown in FIG. 16 described above, a plurality of through holes 9c each of which is a “H” shaped slit are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6b, which is the detected surface. Are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. Instead of these “heavy” shaped through holes 9 c, “C” shaped through holes with the tops cut off can also be adopted. In addition, although the detection accuracy is inferior, it is also possible to incline only the through hole in one half of the width direction of the surface to be detected with respect to the width direction and form the through hole in the other half of the width direction in the width direction (in parallel). .

又、上記センサカバー２０は、軟鋼板等の金属板により断面Ｌ字形で全体を円環状に構成している。この様なセンサカバー２０の内側には、円環状の合成樹脂２３を保持固定している。又、上記１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａはそれぞれ、永久磁石１２と、検出部を構成するホールＩＣ、ホール素子、ＭＲ素子、ＧＭＲ素子等の磁気検知素子１１とから成る。これら両センサ７ａ、７ａは、上記合成樹脂２３中に包埋支持した状態で、それぞれの検出部を、上記エンコーダ６ｂの外周面に、軸方向に間隔をあけて近接対向させている。又、上記センサカバー２０の内端面から、上記両センサ７ａ、７ａの出力信号を図示しない演算器に送る為のセンサケーブル２４を、上記センサカバー２０の外部に導出している。   The sensor cover 20 is formed in an annular shape with an L-shaped cross section by a metal plate such as a mild steel plate. An annular synthetic resin 23 is held and fixed inside such a sensor cover 20. Each of the pair of sensors 7a and 7a includes a permanent magnet 12 and a magnetic detection element 11 such as a Hall IC, a Hall element, an MR element, and a GMR element constituting a detection unit. These two sensors 7a and 7a are embedded and supported in the synthetic resin 23, and the respective detection portions are closely opposed to the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6b with an interval in the axial direction. Further, a sensor cable 24 for sending output signals of the sensors 7a and 7a to a calculator (not shown) is led out from the inner end surface of the sensor cover 20 to the outside of the sensor cover 20.

上述の様に構成する本例の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットの場合も、前述の図１６に示した先発明の第３例の場合と同様の作用により、上記１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａの出力信号の位相差に基づいて、上記外輪１とハブ２ａとの間に作用しているアキシアル荷重の作用方向及び大きさを求められる。特に、本例の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットの場合には、上記エンコーダ６ｂ及び１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａを、十分に広いスペースが存在する個所である、軸端（上記外輪１及びハブ２ａの内端部）に設置する構成を採用している。この為、本例の場合には、列間（複列に設けられた複数個の転動体３ａ、３ａの間部分）のスペースが狭い車輪支持用軸受ユニットを対象としているのにも拘わらず、上記エンコーダ６ｂ及び１対のセンサ７ａ、７ａの軸方向寸法を十分に大きくできる。従って、上記外輪１と上記ハブ２との変位に伴って上記エンコーダ６ｂの被検出面から上記両センサ７ａ、７ａの検出部が外れない様にして、上述したアキシアル荷重の測定可能範囲を十分に確保できる。   In the case of the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of the present example configured as described above, the pair of sensors 7a, 7a is operated in the same manner as in the third example of the prior invention shown in FIG. Based on the phase difference of the output signal, the acting direction and magnitude of the axial load acting between the outer ring 1 and the hub 2a can be obtained. In particular, in the case of the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of this example, the encoder 6b and the pair of sensors 7a and 7a are connected to the shaft end (the outer ring 1 and the hub 2a), which is a place where a sufficiently wide space exists. The structure installed in the inner end). For this reason, in the case of this example, despite the fact that the space between the rows (the portion between the plurality of rolling elements 3a, 3a provided in the double row) is a narrow wheel support bearing unit, The axial dimension of the encoder 6b and the pair of sensors 7a, 7a can be made sufficiently large. Therefore, the above-described axial load measurable range is sufficiently set so that the detection portions of the sensors 7a and 7a are not detached from the detection surface of the encoder 6b due to the displacement of the outer ring 1 and the hub 2. It can be secured.

［実施の形態の第２例］
次に、図３は、請求項１、２、３、４、７、１０、１１に対応する、本発明の実施の形態の第２例を示している。本例の場合、ハブ２ｂの内端部を、外輪１の径方向内側から軸方向内方に突出させている。そして、このハブ２ｂの内端部に磁性金属板製のエンコーダ６ｅを、圧入により外嵌固定している。この様に本例の場合には、外輪１の径方向内側から軸方向内方に突出させたハブ２ｂの内端部にエンコーダ６ｅを外嵌固定する構成を採用する事により、転動体設置空間の内端開口を密閉する組み合わせシールリング２２として、従来構造と同様のものを使用できる様にしている。又、本例の場合、上記エンコーダ６ｅは、断面クランク形で全体を円環状に構成しており、互いに同心の小径円筒部２５と大径円筒部２６とを備える。そして、このうちの小径円筒部２５を、上記ハブ２ｂの内端部に圧入により外嵌固定すると共に、上記大径円筒部２６の外周面を、被検出面としている。そして、この被検出面に、上記外輪１の内端部に被着したセンサカバー（図示せず）に支持固定した１対のセンサ（図示せず）の検出部を、軸方向に間隔をあけて近接対向させている。この様に構成する本例の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットの場合も、上記エンコーダ６ｅ及び１対のセンサを、十分に広いスペースが存在する個所である、軸端（上記外輪１及びハブ２ｂの内端部）に設置する構成を採用している。この為、列間のスペースが狭い構造である事に拘わらず、上記エンコーダ６ｅ及び１対のセンサの寸法を十分に大きくでき、アキシアル荷重の測定可能範囲を十分に確保できる。その他の構成及び作用は、上述した実施の形態の第１例の場合と同様である。 [Second Example of Embodiment]
Next, FIG. 3 shows a second example of an embodiment of the present invention corresponding to claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 10, and 11. In the case of this example, the inner end portion of the hub 2b protrudes inward in the axial direction from the radially inner side of the outer ring 1. An encoder 6e made of a magnetic metal plate is fitted and fixed to the inner end portion of the hub 2b by press-fitting. Thus, in the case of this example, by adopting a configuration in which the encoder 6e is fitted and fixed to the inner end of the hub 2b that protrudes inward in the axial direction from the radially inner side of the outer ring 1, the rolling element installation space is adopted. As the combination seal ring 22 that seals the inner end opening, the same structure as the conventional structure can be used. In the case of this example, the encoder 6e has a crank-shaped cross section and is formed in an annular shape as a whole, and includes a small diameter cylindrical portion 25 and a large diameter cylindrical portion 26 that are concentric with each other. Of these, the small-diameter cylindrical portion 25 is fitted and fixed to the inner end portion of the hub 2b by press-fitting, and the outer peripheral surface of the large-diameter cylindrical portion 26 is used as a detected surface. A detecting portion of a pair of sensors (not shown) supported and fixed to a sensor cover (not shown) attached to the inner end portion of the outer ring 1 is spaced apart in the axial direction on the detected surface. Are close to each other. Also in the case of the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of this example configured as described above, the encoder 6e and the pair of sensors are connected to the shaft end (where the outer ring 1 and the hub 2b are located) where a sufficiently wide space exists. The structure installed at the inner end) is adopted. For this reason, the dimensions of the encoder 6e and the pair of sensors can be sufficiently increased regardless of the structure in which the space between the rows is narrow, and the measurable range of the axial load can be sufficiently secured. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first example of the embodiment described above.

［実施の形態の第３例］
次に、図４は、請求項１、２、３、６、７、１０、１１に対応する、本発明の実施の形態の第３例を示している。本例の場合も、磁性金属である鋼材製のハブ２ｂの内端部を、外輪１の径方向内側から軸方向内方に突出させている。そして、このハブ２ｂの内端部外周面にエンコーダ６ｆを、一体形成している。即ち、このハブ２ｂの内端部外周面に、それぞれが「く」字形である、凹部２７（第一特性部である除肉部）と凸部２８（第二特性部である中実部）とを、円周方向に関して交互に配置（形成）する事により、当該部分を、歯車状のエンコーダ６ｆとしている。即ち、このエンコーダ６ｆは、前述の図１２に示した先発明の第１例で使用した永久磁石製のエンコーダ６と比較すると、Ｎ極に着磁された部分が上記凹部２７に対応し、Ｓ極に着磁された部分が上記凸部２８に対応する構成を有する。そして、被検出面である、上記エンコーダ６ｆの外周面に、上記外輪１の内端部に被着したセンサカバー（図示せず）に支持固定した１対のセンサ（図示せず）の検出部を、軸方向に間隔をあけて近接対向させている。この様に構成する本例の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットの場合も、上記エンコーダ６ｆ及び１対のセンサを、十分に広いスペースが存在する個所である、軸端（上記外輪１及びハブ２ｂの内端部）に設置する構成を採用している。この為、列間のスペースが狭い構造である事に拘わらず、上記エンコーダ６ｆ及び１対のセンサの寸法を十分に大きくでき、アキシアル荷重の測定可能範囲を十分に確保できる。その他の構成及び作用は、上述した実施の形態の第１〜２例の場合と同様である。 [Third example of embodiment]
Next, FIG. 4 shows a third example of the embodiment of the invention corresponding to claims 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, and 11. Also in this example, the inner end portion of the steel hub 2b, which is a magnetic metal, is protruded inward in the axial direction from the radially inner side of the outer ring 1. An encoder 6f is integrally formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner end portion of the hub 2b. That is, on the outer peripheral surface of the inner end portion of the hub 2b, a concave portion 27 (a thinned portion that is a first characteristic portion) and a convex portion 28 (a solid portion that is a second characteristic portion), each of which is a "<" Are alternately arranged (formed) in the circumferential direction, so that the portion is a gear-shaped encoder 6f. That is, in the encoder 6f, when compared with the permanent magnet encoder 6 used in the first example of the prior invention shown in FIG. 12, the portion magnetized in the N pole corresponds to the recess 27, and S A portion magnetized in the pole has a configuration corresponding to the convex portion 28. A detection unit of a pair of sensors (not shown) supported and fixed to a sensor cover (not shown) attached to the inner end of the outer ring 1 on the outer peripheral surface of the encoder 6f, which is a detected surface. Are close to each other with an interval in the axial direction. Also in the case of the rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of this example configured as described above, the encoder 6f and the pair of sensors are connected to the shaft end (the outer ring 1 and the hub 2b), which is a place where a sufficiently wide space exists. The structure installed at the inner end) is adopted. For this reason, the dimensions of the encoder 6f and the pair of sensors can be sufficiently increased regardless of the structure in which the space between the rows is narrow, and the measurable range of the axial load can be sufficiently secured. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first and second examples of the embodiment described above.

［実施の形態の第４例］
次に、図５は、請求項１、２、４、５、７、９、１１に対応する、本発明の実施の形態の第４例を示している。前述の図１〜２に示した実施の形態の第１例の場合には、磁性材製のエンコーダ６ｂを使用しているが、本例の場合には、前述の図１１に示した先発明の第１例の場合と同様の、永久磁石製のエンコーダ６を使用している。即ち、本例の場合には、円筒状の芯金８を、組み合わせシールリング２１を構成するスリンガ２２と一体に形成すると共に、この芯金８の外周面に、上記永久磁石製で円筒状のエンコーダ６を添着固定している。又、本例の場合には、この様にエンコーダ６を永久磁石製とした事に伴い、このエンコーダ６の被検出面である外周面に対向させる１対のセンサ７、７には、永久磁石を組み込んでいない。その他の構成及び作用は、前述の図１〜２に示した実施の形態の第１例の場合と同様である。 [Fourth Example of Embodiment]
Next, FIG. 5 shows a fourth example of the embodiment of the invention corresponding to claims 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, and 11. In the case of the first example of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the encoder 6b made of a magnetic material is used. In the case of this example, the prior invention shown in FIG. The same permanent magnet encoder 6 as in the first example is used. That is, in the case of this example, the cylindrical cored bar 8 is formed integrally with the slinger 22 constituting the combination seal ring 21, and the permanent magnet is made of a cylindrical shape made of the permanent magnet on the outer peripheral surface of the cored bar 8. The encoder 6 is fixedly attached. In the case of this example, as the encoder 6 is made of a permanent magnet as described above, the pair of sensors 7, 7 facing the outer peripheral surface which is the detection surface of the encoder 6 includes a permanent magnet. Is not incorporated. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first example of the embodiment shown in FIGS.

［実施の形態の第５〜６例］
尚、上述した各実施の形態では、車輪支持用軸受ユニットの軸端で、軸方向に関してこの車輪支持用軸受ユニットと等速ジョイント１８とに挟まれた空間に、センサ及びエンコーダを設置する構成を採用した。この様な構成を採用する場合、上記空間の軸方向寸法が小さい場合には、例えば図６に示す本発明の実施の形態の第５例の様に、ハブ２ｃの外端部に設けるナット２９の座面３０の位置を軸方向内方にずらせると共に、上記ハブ２ｃを構成する内側の内輪３１の内端部を軸方向内方に伸ばす構成を採用したり、或は図７に示す本発明の実施の形態の第６例の様に、列間の軸方向寸法を小さくすると共に、ハブ２ｄを構成する内側の内輪３１の内端部を軸方向内方に伸ばす構成を採用すれば、上記空間の軸方向寸法を拡大する事ができる。しかも、これら第５〜６例の構造を採用すれば、上記等速ジョイント１８及びスプライン軸１９の設計を変更する事なく、車輪支持用軸受ユニットの設計のみを変更する事により、上記空間の軸方向寸法を拡大できる。この為、設計変更に伴うコストの上昇を十分に抑える事ができる。尚、この様な効果は、図６〜７に示した様な複列円すいころ軸受ユニットに限らず、複列玉軸受ユニットでも得られる。 [Fifth to sixth examples of embodiment]
In each of the embodiments described above, the sensor and the encoder are installed in the space between the wheel support bearing unit and the constant velocity joint 18 in the axial direction at the shaft end of the wheel support bearing unit. Adopted. When such a configuration is employed, if the axial dimension of the space is small, a nut 29 provided at the outer end of the hub 2c, for example, as in the fifth example of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. The seat surface 30 can be displaced inward in the axial direction, and the inner end of the inner ring 31 constituting the hub 2c can be extended inward in the axial direction, or the book shown in FIG. As in the sixth example of the embodiment of the invention, if the configuration in which the inner dimension of the inner inner ring 31 constituting the hub 2d is extended inward in the axial direction is adopted while reducing the axial dimension between the rows, The axial dimension of the space can be enlarged. Moreover, if the structures of the fifth to sixth examples are adopted, the design of the wheel support bearing unit can be changed without changing the design of the constant velocity joint 18 and the spline shaft 19, and the shaft of the space can be changed. The direction dimension can be enlarged. For this reason, it is possible to sufficiently suppress an increase in cost due to the design change. Such an effect can be obtained not only in the double row tapered roller bearing unit as shown in FIGS. 6 to 7 but also in the double row ball bearing unit.

尚、上述した各実施の形態では、荷重測定装置を構成するエンコーダ及びセンサとして、位相差検出方式のものを採用した。但し、本発明を実施する場合、これらエンコーダ及びセンサとして、例えば前述の図１７〜２０に示した先発明の第４〜５例で使用した様な、デューティ比検出方式（請求項８に対応する方式）のものを採用する事もできる。そして、この場合も、上述した各実施の形態の場合と同様の効果を得られる。   In each of the above-described embodiments, the phase difference detection type is used as the encoder and sensor constituting the load measuring device. However, when the present invention is carried out, the duty ratio detection method (corresponding to claim 8), such as that used in the fourth to fifth examples of the prior invention shown in FIGS. System) can also be adopted. In this case, the same effects as those in the above-described embodiments can be obtained.

又、本発明を実施する場合、磁性材製のエンコーダＥ1 の形状は、特に限定されず、例えば図８の（Ａ）〜（Ｄ）に示す様な、各種の形状を採用できる。又、永久磁石製のエンコーダＥ2 を添着する芯金Ｇの形状も、特に限定されず、例えば図９の（Ａ）〜（Ｄ）に示す様な、各種の形状を採用できる。尚、本発明を実施する場合、永久磁石製のエンコーダＥ2 を、回転側軌道輪等に直接圧入嵌合させる構成を採用する事もできる。但し、永久磁石製のエンコーダＥ2 は靭性が低い為、直接圧入嵌合する構成を採用すると、このエンコーダＥ2 に割れが発生する可能性がある。この為、この様な割れが発生するのを防止すべく、永久磁石製のエンコーダＥ2 は、芯金Ｇの一部に添着固定（例えば、射出成形に伴って固定若しくは接着固定等）した状態で、回転側軌道輪等に圧入嵌合する構成を採用するのが好ましい。又、本発明を実施する場合、例えば図１０の（Ａ）、（Ｂ）に示す様に、エンコーダＥ1 、Ｅ2 の被検出面Ｐを円輪状とし、この被検出面Ｐに（１対の又は１つの）センサの検出部を軸方向に近接対向させる構成を採用すれば、静止側軌道輪と回転側軌道輪との間に加わるラジアル荷重を測定する事ができる。 Furthermore, when practicing this invention, the shape of the magnetic material made of the encoder E 1 is not particularly limited, can be adopted for example as shown in (A) ~ (D) of FIG. 8, a variety of shapes. The shape of the metal core G that affixing the encoder E 2 made of permanent magnets is also not particularly limited, can be adopted for example as shown in (A) ~ (D) of FIG. 9, a variety of shapes. Incidentally, when carrying out the present invention, the encoder E 2 made of permanent magnet, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which directly press-fitted to the rotating side raceway ring and the like. However, since the encoder E 2 made of a permanent magnet has low toughness, there is a possibility that the encoder E 2 will be cracked if a direct press-fitting configuration is adopted. For this reason, in order to prevent such a crack from occurring, the encoder E 2 made of a permanent magnet is attached and fixed to a part of the core metal G (for example, fixed or bonded fixed with injection molding). Therefore, it is preferable to employ a configuration that is press-fitted to the rotation-side raceway or the like. Further, when the present invention is carried out, for example, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the detected surfaces P of the encoders E 1 and E 2 are formed into a ring shape, By adopting a configuration in which the detection portions of the sensor are close to each other in the axial direction, it is possible to measure the radial load applied between the stationary side raceway and the rotation side raceway.

又、本発明で、エンコーダを外気に接する個所に設置する場合に、好ましくは、このエンコーダの被検出面に防錆処理を施したり、或はこのエンコーダの材料として錆にくい材料を使用する等により、このエンコーダの被検出面に錆が発生するのを防止する。これにより、この被検出面の特性境界が錆により変化し、荷重の測定精度が低下する事を防止する。又、芯金が錆びて、この芯金から永久磁石製のエンコーダが脱落するのを防止する為に、この芯金にも防錆処理を施す等するのが好ましい。又、その他の防錆対策として、エンコーダや芯金の設置個所を、外部環境からシールする構造を採用する事もできる。   Further, in the present invention, when the encoder is installed at a location in contact with the outside air, it is preferable to apply a rust prevention treatment to the detection surface of the encoder, or to use a rust-resistant material as the encoder material. This prevents the detection surface of the encoder from generating rust. This prevents the characteristic boundary of the surface to be detected from changing due to rust and reducing the measurement accuracy of the load. In order to prevent the core bar from rusting and the permanent magnet encoder from falling off the core, it is preferable to subject the core to a rust prevention treatment. Further, as another rust prevention measure, it is possible to employ a structure in which the installation location of the encoder and the metal core is sealed from the external environment.

本発明の荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニットは、車両の車輪支持用転がり軸受ユニットに限らず、各種機械装置の回転支持部分に組み込まれる複列転がり軸受ユニットに適用する事ができる。   The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device of the present invention is not limited to a rolling bearing unit for supporting a wheel of a vehicle, but can be applied to a double row rolling bearing unit incorporated in a rotating support portion of various mechanical devices.

本発明の実施の形態の第１例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows the 1st example of embodiment of this invention. 図１のＡ部拡大図。The A section enlarged view of FIG. 本発明の実施の形態の第２例を示す、要部拡大図。The principal part enlarged view which shows the 2nd example of embodiment of this invention. 同第３例を示す、図３と同様の図。The figure similar to FIG. 3 which shows the 3rd example. 同第４例を示す、図２と同様の図。The figure similar to FIG. 2 which shows the 4th example. 同第５例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows the 5th example. 同第６例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows the 6th example. 本発明を実施する場合に採用できる、磁性材製のエンコーダの４例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows four examples of the encoders made from a magnetic material which can be employ | adopted when implementing this invention. 同じく、芯金及び永久磁石製のエンコーダの４例を示す断面図。Similarly, sectional drawing which shows four examples of the core metal and the encoder made from a permanent magnet. 同じく、ラジアル荷重を測定する為に使用可能なエンコーダの２例を示す断面図。Similarly, sectional drawing which shows two examples of the encoder which can be used in order to measure a radial load. 先発明の第１例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows the 1st example of a prior invention. この第１例に組み込むエンコーダの斜視図。The perspective view of the encoder built in this 1st example. 同じく展開図。Similarly development. アキシアル荷重に基づいて１対のセンサの出力信号が変化する状態を説明する為の線図。The diagram for demonstrating the state from which the output signal of a pair of sensor changes based on an axial load. 先発明の第２例に組み込むエンコーダの斜視図。The perspective view of the encoder integrated in the 2nd example of prior invention. 同第３例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows the 3rd example. 同第４例を示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows the 4th example. この第４例に組み込むエンコーダを示しており、（Ａ）は素材の、（Ｂ）は完成品の、それぞれ斜視図。The encoder incorporated in this 4th example is shown, (A) is a raw material, (B) is a perspective view of a finished product, respectively. アキシアル荷重に基づいてセンサの出力信号が変化する状態を説明する為の線図。The diagram for demonstrating the state from which the output signal of a sensor changes based on an axial load. 先発明の第５例に組み込むエンコーダの部分斜視図。The fragmentary perspective view of the encoder integrated in the 5th example of prior invention. 列間のスペースが狭い車輪支持用転がり軸受ユニットの１例を、自動車に組み付けた状態で示す断面図。Sectional drawing which shows an example of the rolling bearing unit for wheel support with a narrow space between rows | lines in the state assembled | attached to the motor vehicle.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１ 外輪
２、２ａ、２ｂ、２ｃ、２ｄ ハブ
３、３ａ 転動体
４、４ａ 外輪軌道
５、５ａ 内輪軌道
６、６ａ〜６ｆ エンコーダ
７、７ａ センサ
８ 芯金
９ａ、９ｂ、９ｃ 透孔
１０ａ、１０ｂ 柱部
１１ 磁気検出素子
１２ 永久磁石
１３ ホルダ
１４ 凹部
１５ 凸部
１６ スプライン孔
１７ ナックル
１８ 等速ジョイント
１９ スプライン軸
２０ センサカバー
２１ 組み合わせシールリング
２２ スリンガ
２３ 合成樹脂
２４ センサケーブル
２５ 小径円筒部
２６ 大径円筒部
２７ 凹部
２８ 凸部
２９ ナット
３０ 座面
３１ 内輪
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Outer ring 2, 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d Hub 3, 3a Rolling element 4, 4a Outer ring raceway 5, 5a Inner ring raceway 6, 6a-6f Encoder 7, 7a Sensor 8 Core metal 9a, 9b, 9c Through hole 10a, 10b Column 11 Magnetic detection element 12 Permanent magnet 13 Holder 14 Recess 15 Protrusion 16 Spline hole 17 Knuckle 18 Constant velocity joint 19 Spline shaft 20 Sensor cover 21 Combination seal ring 22 Slinger 23 Synthetic resin 24 Sensor cable 25 Small diameter cylindrical portion 26 Large diameter Cylindrical part 27 Concave part 28 Convex part 29 Nut 30 Seat surface 31 Inner ring

Claims (11)

転がり軸受ユニットと、荷重測定装置とを備え、
このうちの転がり軸受ユニットは、静止側周面に複列の静止側軌道を有し、使用時にも回転しない静止側軌道輪と、回転側周面に複列の回転側軌道を有し、使用時に回転する回転側軌道輪と、上記各静止側軌道と上記各回転側軌道との間にそれぞれ複数個ずつ転動自在に設けられた転動体とを備えたものであり、
上記荷重測定装置は、エンコーダと、センサと、演算器とを備え、
このうちのエンコーダは、上記回転側軌道輪又はこの回転側軌道輪と共に回転する部材の一部で軸方向に関して複列の回転側軌道及びこれら両回転側軌道同士の間部分から外れた部分に支持固定又は固設され、上記回転側軌道輪と同心に設けた被検出面の特性を円周方向に関して交互に変化させると共に、この被検出面の特性が円周方向に関して変化する位相若しくはピッチを、この被検出面の幅方向の少なくとも一部でこの幅方向に応じて連続的に変化させたものであり、
上記センサは、検出部を上記被検出面に対向させた状態で、使用時にも回転しない部分に支持され、上記被検出面の特性変化に対応して出力信号を変化させるものであり、
上記演算器は、上記センサの出力信号が変化するパターンに基づいて上記静止側軌道輪と上記回転側軌道輪との間に加わる荷重を算出する機能を有するものである、
荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。 A rolling bearing unit and a load measuring device;
Of these, the rolling bearing unit has a double-row stationary raceway on the stationary peripheral surface, a stationary raceway that does not rotate during use, and a double-row rotational raceway on the rotational peripheral surface. A rotation-side raceway that rotates at times, and a plurality of rolling elements provided between the respective stationary-side raceways and the respective rotation-side raceways so as to be capable of rolling, respectively.
The load measuring device includes an encoder, a sensor, and a calculator.
Of these, the encoder is supported by the rotation side raceway or a part of the member that rotates together with the rotation side raceway in a double row of the rotation side raceway and the part that is separated from the part between these rotation side raceways in the axial direction. The phase or pitch at which the characteristic of the detected surface is fixed or fixedly provided and is changed concentrically with the rotation-side raceway in the circumferential direction, and the characteristic of the detected surface changes in the circumferential direction, The detected surface is continuously changed according to the width direction in at least a part of the width direction,
The sensor is supported by a portion that does not rotate during use with the detection unit facing the detection surface, and changes an output signal in response to a change in the characteristics of the detection surface.
The computing unit has a function of calculating a load applied between the stationary side raceway and the rotation side raceway based on a pattern in which the output signal of the sensor changes.
Rolling bearing unit with load measuring device. エンコーダが、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材に支持固定又は固設され、センサが、固定側軌道輪である外輪相当部材に支持固定されている、請求項１に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The rolling device with a load measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the encoder is supported and fixed or fixed to an inner ring equivalent member that is a rotating side race ring, and the sensor is supported and fixed to an outer ring equivalent member that is a fixed side race ring. Bearing unit. 回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材の一端部が、静止側軌道輪である外輪相当部材の径方向内側から軸方向に突出しており、エンコーダが、上記内輪相当部材の一端部のうち上記外輪相当部材の径方向内側から軸方向に突出した部分に支持固定又は固設されている、請求項１〜２のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   One end of the inner ring equivalent member that is the rotation side raceway protrudes in the axial direction from the radially inner side of the outer ring equivalent member that is the stationary side raceway, and the encoder corresponds to the outer ring of the one end portion of the inner ring equivalent member. The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the rolling bearing unit is supported, fixed, or fixed to a portion protruding in an axial direction from a radially inner side of the member. エンコーダが、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材に圧入により嵌合固定されている、請求項１〜３のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the encoder is fitted and fixed by press-fitting to an inner ring equivalent member that is a rotation side raceway ring. エンコーダが、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材の外周面と静止側軌道輪である外輪相当部材の内周面との間に存在する空間の端部開口を塞ぐ状態で設けられたシール装置の構成部材と一体に設けられている、請求項１〜４のうちの何れか１項に記載された荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   An encoder is a sealing device provided in a state of closing an end opening of a space existing between an outer peripheral surface of an inner ring equivalent member that is a rotating side raceway and an inner peripheral surface of an outer ring equivalent member that is a stationary side raceway. The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the rolling bearing unit is provided integrally with a constituent member. エンコーダが、回転側軌道輪である内輪相当部材の表面に一体形成されている、請求項１〜３のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the encoder is integrally formed on a surface of an inner ring equivalent member which is a rotating side race. エンコーダが、被検出面に、互いに異なる特性を有する第一特性部と第二特性部とを円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置すると共に、これら第一、第二両特性部の境界を、少なくとも上記被検出面の幅方向の一部でこの被検出面の幅方向に対し傾斜させ、且つ、この境界のこの幅方向に対する傾斜方向又は傾斜角度を、上記被検出面の幅方向中間部を境に互いに異ならせたものであり、センサが、それぞれの検出部を上記被検出面のうちこの被検出面の幅方向中間部を挟んでこの幅方向に離隔した２個所位置に対向させた１対のセンサであり、演算器が、これら１対のセンサの出力信号の位相差に基づいて静止側軌道輪と回転側軌道輪との間に加わる荷重を算出する機能を有するものである、請求項１〜６のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The encoder arranges the first characteristic portion and the second characteristic portion having different characteristics on the detection surface alternately and at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, and defines the boundary between the first and second characteristic portions. , At least part of the width of the surface to be detected is inclined with respect to the width direction of the surface to be detected, and an inclination direction or an inclination angle of the boundary with respect to the width direction is set to an intermediate portion in the width direction of the surface to be detected The sensors made the respective detection parts face two positions separated in the width direction across the width direction intermediate part of the detection surface among the detection surfaces. A pair of sensors, and the computing unit has a function of calculating a load applied between the stationary side raceway and the rotation side raceway based on the phase difference between the output signals of the pair of sensors. Claim in any one of Claims 1-6 Rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device. エンコーダが、被検出面に、互いに異なる特性を有する第一特性部と第二特性部とを円周方向に関して交互に且つ等間隔で配置すると共に、このうちの第一特性部の円周方向に関する幅を上記被検出面の幅方向片側程広くし、且つ、上記第二特性部の円周方向に関する幅をこの被検出面の幅方向他側程広くしたものであり、センサが、その検出部をこの被検出面の一部に対向させた１つのセンサであり、演算器が、この１つのセンサの出力信号のデューティ比に基づいて静止側軌道輪と回転側軌道輪との間に加わる荷重を算出する機能を有するものである、請求項１〜６のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The encoder arranges the first characteristic portion and the second characteristic portion having different characteristics on the detection surface alternately and at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, and relates to the circumferential direction of the first characteristic portion among them. The width of the detected surface is increased on one side in the width direction, and the width of the second characteristic portion in the circumferential direction is increased on the other side of the detected surface in the width direction. The load applied between the stationary-side raceway and the rotation-side raceway based on the duty ratio of the output signal of this one sensor. The rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the rolling bearing unit has a function of calculating the load. エンコーダが永久磁石製であり、第一特性部がＮ極とＳ極とのうちの一方の極に着磁された部分であり、第二特性部が同じく他方の極に着磁された部分である、請求項１〜８のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The encoder is made of a permanent magnet, the first characteristic part is a part magnetized on one of the N and S poles, and the second characteristic part is also a part magnetized on the other pole. A rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. エンコーダが磁性材製であり、第一特性部が中実部と除肉部とのうちの一方であり、第二特性部が中実部と除肉部とのうちの他方である、請求項１〜８のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。   The encoder is made of a magnetic material, the first characteristic part is one of a solid part and a thinned part, and the second characteristic part is the other of the solid part and the thinned part. A rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of 1 to 8. 転がり軸受ユニットが自動車の車輪支持用のハブユニットであり、使用状態で静止側軌道輪が自動車の懸架装置に支持され、回転側軌道輪であるハブに車輪が結合固定される、請求項１〜１０のうちの何れか１項に記載した荷重測定装置付転がり軸受ユニット。
The rolling bearing unit is a hub unit for supporting a wheel of an automobile, the stationary-side bearing ring is supported by a suspension device of the automobile in use, and the wheel is coupled and fixed to a hub that is a rotating-side bearing ring. A rolling bearing unit with a load measuring device according to any one of 10.
JP2005375336A 2005-12-27 2005-12-27 Rolling bearing unit with load-measuring device Pending JP2007178201A (en)

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