JP2012107658A - Joining structure of joint and shaft - Google Patents

Joining structure of joint and shaft Download PDF

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JP2012107658A
JP2012107658A JP2010255384A JP2010255384A JP2012107658A JP 2012107658 A JP2012107658 A JP 2012107658A JP 2010255384 A JP2010255384 A JP 2010255384A JP 2010255384 A JP2010255384 A JP 2010255384A JP 2012107658 A JP2012107658 A JP 2012107658A
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shaft
coupling
coupling cylinder
key
peripheral surface
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JP5273129B2 (en
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Shin Mihara
伸 三原
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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
    • F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D3/00—Yielding couplings, i.e. with means permitting movement between the connected parts during the drive
    • F16D3/16—Universal joints in which flexibility is produced by means of pivots or sliding or rolling connecting parts
    • F16D3/26—Hooke's joints or other joints with an equivalent intermediate member to which each coupling part is pivotally or slidably connected
    • F16D3/38—Hooke's joints or other joints with an equivalent intermediate member to which each coupling part is pivotally or slidably connected with a single intermediate member with trunnions or bearings arranged on two axes perpendicular to one another
    • F16D3/382—Hooke's joints or other joints with an equivalent intermediate member to which each coupling part is pivotally or slidably connected with a single intermediate member with trunnions or bearings arranged on two axes perpendicular to one another constructional details of other than the intermediate member
    • F16D3/387—Fork construction; Mounting of fork on shaft; Adapting shaft for mounting of fork
    • 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
    • F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D1/00—Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements
    • F16D1/06—Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end
    • F16D1/08—Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with clamping hub; with hub and longitudinal key
    • F16D1/0876—Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements for attachment of a member on a shaft or on a shaft-end with clamping hub; with hub and longitudinal key with axial keys and no other radial clamping
    • 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
    • F16D—COUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D1/00—Couplings for rigidly connecting two coaxial shafts or other movable machine elements
    • F16D1/10—Quick-acting couplings in which the parts are connected by simply bringing them together axially
    • F16D1/108—Quick-acting couplings in which the parts are connected by simply bringing them together axially having retaining means rotating with the coupling and acting by interengaging parts, i.e. positive coupling
    • F16D1/116—Quick-acting couplings in which the parts are connected by simply bringing them together axially having retaining means rotating with the coupling and acting by interengaging parts, i.e. positive coupling the interengaging parts including a continuous or interrupted circumferential groove in the surface of one of the coupling parts

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Steering Controls (AREA)

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a joining structure of a joint and a shaft capable of improving a steering feeling of a steering wheel, by reducing looseness in the rotational direction between a joining cylinder part and the shaft.SOLUTION: A key groove 77 as an engaging part is formed on an inner peripheral surface 71 of the joining cylinder part 7. The key groove 77 is formed in a phase different by 180 degrees to a slit 72. A key 85 as an engaging object part for engaging with the key groove 77 is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. When large rotational torque acts between the joining cylinder part 7 and the shaft 8, force is added to the key groove 77 from the key 85. Since the rotational torque does not act on the slit 72 even if fastening force of a bolt 74 is small, the looseness is not caused between the key 85 and the key groove 77, rigidity in the rotational direction between the joining cylinder part 7 and the shaft 8 is not reduced, and there is no risk of reducing the steering feeling of the steering wheel.

Description

本発明は継手と軸の結合構造、特に、ステアリング装置のステアリングシャフトの回転を伝達する自在継手と軸を連結する継手と軸の結合構造に関する。   The present invention relates to a joint-shaft coupling structure, and more particularly to a joint-shaft coupling structure that connects a universal joint that transmits rotation of a steering shaft of a steering device and a shaft.

車両の前輪を操舵するステアリング装置では、ステアリングホイールの操作で回転するステアリングシャフトの動きを、自在継手を介してステアリングギヤの入力軸に伝達している。   In a steering device that steers the front wheels of a vehicle, the movement of a steering shaft that is rotated by the operation of a steering wheel is transmitted to an input shaft of a steering gear through a universal joint.

ステアリングホイールの動きは、ステアリングコラム内に回転自在に設けたステアリングシャフトおよび中間シャフトを介してステアリングギアに伝達され、ステアリングギアによって車輪の方向を操舵する。通常、ステアリングシャフトとステアリングギアの入力軸とは、互いに同一直線上に設けることが出来ない。   The movement of the steering wheel is transmitted to the steering gear via a steering shaft and an intermediate shaft that are rotatably provided in the steering column, and the direction of the wheel is steered by the steering gear. Usually, the steering shaft and the input shaft of the steering gear cannot be provided on the same straight line.

このため従来から、ステアリングシャフトとステアリングギアへの入力軸との間に中間シャフトを設け、この中間シャフトの端部とステアリングシャフト、および、中間シャフトの端部とステアリングギアの入力軸の端部とを、自在継手を介して結合することにより、同一直線上に存在しないステアリングシャフトと入力軸との間での動力伝達が行えるようにしている。   For this reason, conventionally, an intermediate shaft is provided between the steering shaft and the input shaft to the steering gear, the end of the intermediate shaft and the steering shaft, and the end of the intermediate shaft and the end of the input shaft of the steering gear. Are coupled via a universal joint so that power can be transmitted between the steering shaft and the input shaft that do not exist on the same straight line.

このような自在継手は、軸を嵌合するための内周面を備えた結合筒部と、この結合筒部の内周面に貫通するスリットを挟んで結合筒部と一体に設けられた一対のフランジ部を備えている。そして、フランジ部に形成されたボルト孔にボルトを内嵌して締付けることにより、結合筒部の内周面を縮径して、軸の外周面を結合筒部の内周面で締め付けて固定するようにしている。   Such a universal joint includes a coupling cylinder part having an inner peripheral surface for fitting a shaft, and a pair provided integrally with the coupling cylinder part across a slit penetrating the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder part. The flange part is provided. Then, by bolting the bolt into the bolt hole formed in the flange portion, the inner peripheral surface of the coupling tube portion is reduced in diameter, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft is tightened and fixed by the inner peripheral surface of the coupling tube portion. Like to do.

また、軸の外周には軸方向の所定位置に略Ｕ字形の凹部が形成され、ボルトが凹部を挿通することにより、軸が結合筒部から抜け出そうとすると、ボルトの軸部外周が凹部に当接して、軸が結合筒部から抜け出すのを防止している。従って、軸を結合筒部に組み付ける際には、この凹部とボルト孔が整合するように組み付けることが必要で、組み付け作業時間を短縮するために、凹部とボルト孔の整合を容易に行うための工夫が行われている。   In addition, a substantially U-shaped recess is formed at a predetermined position in the axial direction on the outer periphery of the shaft. When the bolt is inserted through the recess, the shaft outer periphery of the bolt becomes a recess when the shaft tries to come out of the coupling tube portion. It abuts to prevent the shaft from coming out of the coupling cylinder. Therefore, when assembling the shaft to the coupling cylinder portion, it is necessary to assemble so that the concave portion and the bolt hole are aligned. In order to shorten the assembling operation time, the concave portion and the bolt hole are easily aligned. Ingenuity has been made.

図６は特許文献１の継手と軸の結合構造を示し、凹部とボルト孔の整合を容易に行うようにした継手と軸の結合構造である。図６に示す継手と軸の結合構造は、自在継手５のヨーク６と軸８とから構成されている。図６（ｂ）に示すヨーク６には、筒状の結合筒部７が形成され、結合筒部７の右側には、図示しない二股状のアーム部が一体的に形成され、このアーム部に形成された円孔に、軸受を介して十字軸が挿入され、この十字軸を介して、他方の図示しないヨークが結合されている。   FIG. 6 shows a joint-shaft coupling structure of Patent Document 1, which is a joint-shaft coupling structure in which the recesses and bolt holes are easily aligned. The joint-shaft coupling structure shown in FIG. 6 includes a yoke 6 and a shaft 8 of the universal joint 5. The yoke 6 shown in FIG. 6B is formed with a cylindrical coupling cylinder portion 7, and a bifurcated arm portion (not shown) is integrally formed on the right side of the coupling cylinder portion 7. A cross shaft is inserted into the formed circular hole through a bearing, and the other yoke (not shown) is coupled through the cross shaft.

結合筒部７の円筒状の内周面７１に、図６（ｂ）の左側から、内周面７１の中心軸線７１１に平行に、円柱状の軸８を挿入する。結合筒部７には、結合筒部７の外周面７３から内周面７１に連通するスリット（切り割り）７２が形成されている。結合筒部７には、ボルト７４のボルト軸部７４１を挿入するためのボルト孔７５が形成されている。また、結合筒部７には、ボルト７４の雄ねじ７４２をねじ込むための雌ねじ（図示せず）が、ボルト孔７５と同心状に形成されている。   A cylindrical shaft 8 is inserted into the cylindrical inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 from the left side of FIG. 6B in parallel to the central axis 711 of the inner peripheral surface 71. A slit (cut) 72 that communicates from the outer circumferential surface 73 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 to the inner circumferential surface 71 is formed in the coupling cylinder portion 7. A bolt hole 75 for inserting the bolt shaft portion 741 of the bolt 74 is formed in the coupling cylinder portion 7. In addition, a female screw (not shown) for screwing the male screw 742 of the bolt 74 is formed concentrically with the bolt hole 75 in the coupling cylinder portion 7.

軸８の外周面には、上記スリット７２に係合するキー８１が形成されている。キー８１の幅Ｗ２は、スリット７２の溝幅Ｗ１よりも若干狭く形成されて、すきまばめ嵌合になっている。また、軸８の外周面には、略Ｕ字形の凹部８２が形成されている。凹部８２は、軸８の中心軸線８３に直交し、かつ、ボルト孔７５の中心軸線７５１に平行に形成され、キー８１を分断して形成されている。   A key 81 that engages with the slit 72 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The width W2 of the key 81 is formed to be slightly narrower than the groove width W1 of the slit 72, and is a clearance fit. A substantially U-shaped recess 82 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The recess 82 is formed perpendicular to the center axis 83 of the shaft 8 and parallel to the center axis 751 of the bolt hole 75, and is formed by dividing the key 81.

軸８が結合筒部７の内周面７１の軸方向の正規位置（軸８の段差面８４が結合筒部７の左端面７６に当接した位置）に達していれば、ボルト軸部７４１が凹部８２を挿通する。従って、軸８が結合筒部７の内周面７１から抜け出そうとすると、ボルト軸部７４１の外周が凹部８２に当接して、軸８が結合筒部７の内周面７１から抜け出すのを防止する。   If the shaft 8 has reached the normal position in the axial direction of the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling tube portion 7 (the position where the stepped surface 84 of the shaft 8 is in contact with the left end surface 76 of the coupling tube portion 7), the bolt shaft portion 741 is reached. Passes through the recess 82. Accordingly, when the shaft 8 tries to come out from the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7, the outer periphery of the bolt shaft portion 741 comes into contact with the recess 82, and the shaft 8 comes out of the inner circumferential surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7. To prevent.

結合筒部７の内周面７１に軸８を挿入し、ボルト孔７５に、図６の右側からボルト７４を挿入し、雌ねじに雄ねじ７４２をねじ込む。すると、結合筒部７が弾性変形してスリット７２の溝幅が狭まり、軸８の外周面を結合筒部７の内周面７１で強く締付けて固定する。スリット７２の溝幅が狭まるため、スリット７２にキー８１がガタ無く締付けられ、結合筒部７と軸８との間で回転トルクを伝達する。   The shaft 8 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7, the bolt 74 is inserted into the bolt hole 75 from the right side of FIG. 6, and the male screw 742 is screwed into the female screw. Then, the coupling cylinder part 7 is elastically deformed and the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is strongly tightened and fixed by the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder part 7. Since the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, the key 81 is fastened to the slit 72 without backlash, and rotational torque is transmitted between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8.

特許文献１に示す継手と軸の結合構造は、結合筒部７と軸８との間に大きな回転トルクが作用すると、キー８１からスリット７２に力が加わる。ボルト７４の締付け力が小さいと、スリット７２の溝幅が大きくなって、スリット７２とキー８１との間にガタが生じる。そのため、結合筒部７と軸８との間に回転方向のガタが生じて、ステアリングホイールの操舵感が低下する恐れがあった。   In the joint / shaft coupling structure shown in Patent Document 1, when a large rotational torque acts between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8, a force is applied from the key 81 to the slit 72. When the tightening force of the bolt 74 is small, the groove width of the slit 72 is increased, and play occurs between the slit 72 and the key 81. Therefore, a backlash in the rotational direction is generated between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8, and the steering feeling of the steering wheel may be lowered.

特表２００９−５４５４８０号公報Special table 2009-545480

本発明は、結合筒部と軸との間の回転方向のガタを小さくして、ステアリングホイールの操舵感を向上させることを可能にした継手と軸の結合構造を提供することを課題とする。   It is an object of the present invention to provide a joint / shaft coupling structure in which the backlash in the rotational direction between the coupling cylinder portion and the shaft can be reduced to improve the steering feeling of the steering wheel.

上記課題は以下の手段によって解決される。すなわち、第１番目の発明は、軸を嵌合するための内周面を備えた結合筒部を有する継手、上記結合筒部の内周面に結合筒部の軸方向に平行に挿入され、結合筒部の内周面に回転トルクを伝達可能に内嵌する外周面を有する軸、上記結合筒部に形成され、結合筒部の外周面から内周面に貫通するスリット、上記結合筒部に形成されたボルト孔にボルト軸部を内嵌し、上記スリットの間隔を狭めて、上記結合筒部の内周面を縮径し、上記軸の外周面を結合筒部の内周面で締め付けるボルト、上記軸の外周面に上記ボルト孔の位相と同一の円周上の位相に形成され、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、上記ボルトに係合して軸が結合筒部から抜け出すのを防止する凹部、上記結合筒部の内周面に上記スリットの位相とは異なる円周上の位相に形成され、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、軸に回転トルクを伝達可能に係合する係合部、上記軸の外周面に上記係合部の位相と同一の円周上の位相に形成され、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、係合部に係合する被係合部を備えたことを特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造である。   The above problem is solved by the following means. That is, the first invention is a joint having a coupling cylinder portion provided with an inner circumferential surface for fitting the shaft, and is inserted into the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder portion in parallel to the axial direction of the coupling cylinder portion, A shaft having an outer peripheral surface fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder part so as to transmit rotational torque, a slit formed in the coupling cylinder part and penetrating from the outer circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder part to the inner circumferential surface, the coupling cylinder part The bolt shaft portion is internally fitted in the bolt hole formed in the hole, the gap between the slits is narrowed, the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder portion is reduced in diameter, and the outer circumferential surface of the shaft is the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder portion. The bolt to be tightened is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the shaft with the same circumferential phase as the phase of the bolt hole, and engages with the bolt when the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion. A recess that prevents the shaft from coming out of the coupling cylinder, and the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder is different from the phase of the slit. An engagement portion that is formed in a phase on a circumference and engages the shaft so that rotational torque can be transmitted when the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion, and the engagement on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft. An engaged portion that is formed in a phase on the same circumference as the phase of the joining portion and that engages with the engaging portion when the shaft is inserted into a predetermined axial position of the joining cylinder portion is provided. It is a coupling structure of a joint and a shaft that is characteristic.

第２番目の発明は、第１番目の発明の継手と軸の結合構造において、上記結合筒部の係合部が、内周面の軸方向に平行に形成されたキー溝であり、上記軸の被係合部が、軸の軸方向に平行に形成され上記キー溝に係合するキーであることを特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造である。   According to a second invention, in the joint-shaft coupling structure according to the first invention, the engaging portion of the coupling cylinder portion is a key groove formed in parallel to the axial direction of the inner peripheral surface, and the shaft The joint-shaft structure is characterized in that the engaged portion is a key that is formed in parallel with the axial direction of the shaft and that engages with the key groove.

第３番目の発明は、第１番目の発明の継手と軸の結合構造において、上記結合筒部の係合部が、内周面の軸方向に平行に形成されたキーであり、上記軸の被係合部が、軸の軸方向に平行に形成され上記キーに係合するキー溝であることを特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造である。   According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the coupling structure of the joint and the shaft according to the first aspect, the engagement portion of the coupling cylinder portion is a key formed in parallel with the axial direction of the inner peripheral surface. The joint-shaft coupling structure is characterized in that the engaged portion is a key groove formed in parallel to the axial direction of the shaft and engaged with the key.

第４番目の発明は、第２番目から第３番目までのいずれかの発明の継手と軸の結合構造において、上記結合筒部の係合部は、上記スリットに対して１８０度異なる位相に形成され、上記結合筒部の内周面には、上記スリットの円周上の両側近傍にキー溝が形成され、上記軸の外周面には、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、上記キー溝に係合するキーが形成されていることを特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造である。   According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the coupling / shaft coupling structure according to any one of the second to third aspects, the engagement portion of the coupling cylinder portion is formed in a phase different from the slit by 180 degrees. A key groove is formed in the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder portion in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the slit, and the shaft is located at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion on the outer circumferential surface of the shaft. The coupling and shaft coupling structure is characterized in that a key that engages with the keyway when formed is formed.

第５番目の発明は、第４番目の発明の継手と軸の結合構造において、上記結合筒部は自在継手のヨークに一体的に形成されていることを特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造である。   A fifth invention is a joint-shaft coupling structure according to the fourth invention, wherein the coupling tube portion is formed integrally with a universal joint yoke. is there.

本発明の継手と軸の結合構造は、結合筒部に形成されたボルト孔にボルト軸部を内嵌し、スリットの間隔を狭めて、結合筒部の内周面を縮径し、軸の外周面を結合筒部の内周面で締め付けるボルトと、軸の外周面にボルト孔の位相と同一の円周上の位相に形成され、軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、ボルトに係合して軸が結合筒部から抜け出すのを防止する凹部と、結合筒部の内周面にスリットの位相とは異なる円周上の位相に形成され、軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、軸に回転トルクを伝達可能に係合する係合部と、軸の外周面に係合部の位相と同一の円周上の位相に形成され、軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、係合部に係合する被係合部を備えている。   In the joint / shaft coupling structure of the present invention, the bolt shaft portion is fitted into the bolt hole formed in the coupling tube portion, the slit interval is reduced, the inner peripheral surface of the coupling tube portion is reduced in diameter, and the shaft Bolts that tighten the outer peripheral surface with the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder portion, and the outer circumferential surface of the shaft are formed in the same circumferential phase as the phase of the bolt hole, and the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylindrical portion. A recess that engages with the bolt to prevent the shaft from coming out of the coupling cylinder portion, and a circumferential phase different from the phase of the slit on the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder portion. An engaging portion that engages the shaft so that rotational torque can be transmitted when inserted into a predetermined axial position of the portion, and a phase on the circumference that is the same as the phase of the engaging portion on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft. And an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion when the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion.

従って、ボルトの締付け力が小さくてもスリットには回転トルクは作用しないため、内周面が軸の外周面を締付ける締付け力は低下しない。また、係合部と被係合部との間にはガタが生じず、結合筒部と軸との間の回転方向のガタが小さくなるため、ステアリングホイールの操舵感が低下する恐れはない。   Therefore, even if the bolt tightening force is small, no rotational torque acts on the slit, so that the tightening force with which the inner peripheral surface tightens the outer peripheral surface of the shaft does not decrease. Further, no backlash occurs between the engaging portion and the engaged portion, and the backlash in the rotational direction between the coupling tube portion and the shaft is reduced, so that the steering feeling of the steering wheel does not deteriorate.

本発明の実施例の継手と軸の結合構造を有する自在継手を備えたステアリング装置の全体側面図である。1 is an overall side view of a steering apparatus including a universal joint having a joint-shaft coupling structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. 本発明の実施例１の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the coupling structure of the coupling and shaft of Example 1 of this invention, (a) is a perspective view of a shaft, (b) is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder part. 本発明の実施例２の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the coupling structure of the coupling and shaft of Example 2 of this invention, (a) is a perspective view of a shaft, (b) is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder part. 本発明の実施例３の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the coupling structure of the coupling and shaft of Example 3 of this invention, (a) is a perspective view of a shaft, (b) is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder part. 本発明の実施例４の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the coupling structure of the coupling of Example 4 of this invention, and a shaft, (a) is a perspective view of a shaft, (b) is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder part. 従来の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view which shows the coupling structure of the conventional coupling and a shaft, (a) is a perspective view of a shaft, (b) is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder part.

以下、図面に基づいて本発明の実施例１から実施例４を説明する。     Embodiments 1 to 4 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

図１は、本発明の実施例の継手と軸の結合構造を有する自在継手を備えたステアリング装置の全体側面図である。図１に示すように、本発明の実施例の継手と軸の結合構造を備えた自在継手を備えたステアリング装置は、車体後方側（図１の右側）にステアリングホイール１１を装着可能なステアリングシャフト１２と、このステアリングシャフト１２を挿通したステアリングコラム１３と、このステアリングシャフト１２に補助トルクを付与する為のアシスト装置（操舵補助部）２０と、このステアリングシャフト１２の車体前方側（図１の左側）に、図示しないラック／ピニオン機構を介して連結されたステアリングギヤ３０とを備える。   FIG. 1 is an overall side view of a steering apparatus provided with a universal joint having a joint-shaft coupling structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a steering apparatus having a universal joint having a joint-shaft coupling structure according to an embodiment of the present invention has a steering shaft on which a steering wheel 11 can be mounted on the rear side of the vehicle body (right side in FIG. 1). 12, a steering column 13 inserted through the steering shaft 12, an assist device (steering assisting portion) 20 for applying auxiliary torque to the steering shaft 12, and the vehicle body front side of the steering shaft 12 (left side in FIG. 1) And a steering gear 30 connected via a rack / pinion mechanism (not shown).

ステアリングシャフト１２は、雌ステアリングシャフト１２Ａと雄ステアリングシャフト１２Ｂとを、回転トルクを伝達可能に、かつ軸方向に関して相対移動可能にスプライン嵌合している。従って、上記雌ステアリングシャフト１２Ａと雄ステアリングシャフト１２Ｂとは、衝突時に、このスプライン嵌合部が相対移動して、全長を縮めることができる。   The steering shaft 12 is spline-fitted between a female steering shaft 12A and a male steering shaft 12B so as to be able to transmit rotational torque and to be relatively movable in the axial direction. Therefore, when the female steering shaft 12A and the male steering shaft 12B collide, the spline fitting portion moves relative to each other so that the total length can be shortened.

また、上記ステアリングシャフト１２を挿通した筒状のステアリングコラム１３は、アウターコラム１３Ａとインナーコラム１３Ｂとをテレスコピック移動可能に組み合わせている。そのため、ステアリングコラム１３は、衝突時に軸方向の衝撃が加わった場合に、この衝撃によるエネルギを吸収しつつ全長が縮まる、所謂コラプシブル構造としている。   The cylindrical steering column 13 inserted through the steering shaft 12 combines an outer column 13A and an inner column 13B so as to be telescopically movable. Therefore, the steering column 13 has a so-called collapsible structure in which, when an impact in the axial direction is applied during a collision, the entire length is reduced while absorbing energy due to the impact.

そして、上記インナーコラム１３Ｂの車体前方側端部を、ギヤハウジング２１の車体後方側端部に圧入嵌合して固定している。また、上記雄ステアリングシャフト１２Ｂの車体前方側端部を、このギヤハウジング２１の内側に通し、アシスト装置２０の図示しない入力軸の車体後方側端部に連結している。   The vehicle body front side end portion of the inner column 13B is press-fitted and fixed to the vehicle body rear side end portion of the gear housing 21. Further, the front end portion of the male steering shaft 12B on the vehicle body is passed through the inside of the gear housing 21 and connected to the rear end portion of the assist device 20 on the rear side of the input shaft (not shown).

ステアリングコラム１３は、その中間部を支持ブラケット１４により、ダッシュボードの下面等、車体１８の一部に支承している。また、この支持ブラケット１４と車体１８との間に、図示しない係止部を設けて、この支持ブラケット１４に車体前方側に向かう方向の衝撃が加わった場合に、この支持ブラケット１４が上記係止部から外れ、車体前方側に移動するようにしている。   The steering column 13 is supported by a support bracket 14 at a middle portion thereof on a part of the vehicle body 18 such as a lower surface of the dashboard. Further, a locking portion (not shown) is provided between the support bracket 14 and the vehicle body 18, and when an impact in a direction toward the front side of the vehicle body is applied to the support bracket 14, the support bracket 14 is locked to the locking bracket 14. It moves away from the vehicle and moves to the front side of the vehicle.

また、上記ギヤハウジング２１の上端部も、上記車体１８の一部に支承している。また、本実施例の場合には、チルト機構及びテレスコピック機構を設けることにより、上記ステアリングホイール１１の車体前後方向位置、及び、高さ位置の調節を自在としている。このようなチルト機構及びテレスコピック機構は、従来から周知であり、本発明の特徴部分でもない為、詳しい説明は省略する。   The upper end portion of the gear housing 21 is also supported on a part of the vehicle body 18. In the case of this embodiment, by providing a tilt mechanism and a telescopic mechanism, the position of the steering wheel 11 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body and the height position can be freely adjusted. Such a tilt mechanism and a telescopic mechanism are well known in the art and are not characteristic features of the present invention, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

上記ギヤハウジング２１の車体前方側端面から突出した出力軸２３は、自在継手（上側自在継手）４を介して、中間シャフト１５の後端部に連結している。また、この中間シャフト１５の前端部に、別の自在継手（下側自在継手）５を介して、ステアリングギヤ３０のピニオン軸（以下軸と呼ぶ）８を連結している。中間シャフト１５は、雄中間シャフト（雄シャフト）１５Ａの車体前方側に、雌中間シャフト（雌シャフト）１５Ｂの車体後方側が外嵌し、回転トルクを伝達可能に、かつ、軸方向に関して相対移動可能に嵌合している。   The output shaft 23 protruding from the front end face of the gear housing 21 on the vehicle body is connected to the rear end portion of the intermediate shaft 15 via a universal joint (upper universal joint) 4. Further, a pinion shaft (hereinafter referred to as a shaft) 8 of the steering gear 30 is connected to the front end portion of the intermediate shaft 15 via another universal joint (lower universal joint) 5. The intermediate shaft 15 is fitted on the vehicle body front side of the male intermediate shaft (male shaft) 15A on the vehicle body rear side of the female intermediate shaft (female shaft) 15B so as to be able to transmit rotational torque and relatively move in the axial direction. Is fitted.

図示しないピニオンが、軸８の下端（車体前方側端部）に形成されている。また、図示しないラックが、このピニオンに噛み合っており、ステアリングホイール１１の回転が、タイロッド３１を移動させて、図示しない車輪を操舵する。   A pinion (not shown) is formed at the lower end (front end of the vehicle body) of the shaft 8. A rack (not shown) meshes with the pinion, and rotation of the steering wheel 11 moves the tie rod 31 to steer a wheel (not shown).

アシスト装置２０のギヤハウジング２１には、電動モータ２６のケース２６１が固定され、この電動モータ２６の図示しない回転軸にウォームが結合されている。出力軸２３には図示しないウォームホイールが取り付けられ、このウォームホイールに電動モータ２６の回転軸のウォームが噛合っている。   A case 261 of an electric motor 26 is fixed to the gear housing 21 of the assist device 20, and a worm is coupled to a rotating shaft (not shown) of the electric motor 26. A worm wheel (not shown) is attached to the output shaft 23, and the worm of the rotating shaft of the electric motor 26 is engaged with the worm wheel.

また、出力軸２３の中間部の周囲には、図示しないトルクセンサが設けられている。上記ステアリングホイール１１からステアリングシャフト１２に加えられるトルクの方向と大きさを、トルクセンサで検出し、この検出値に応じて、電動モータ２６を駆動し、ウォームとウォームホイールから成る減速機構を介して、出力軸２３に、所定の方向に所定の大きさで補助トルクを発生させる。補助トルクを発生させるアシスト装置は、電動式に限定されるものではなく、油圧式のアシスト装置でもよい。   A torque sensor (not shown) is provided around the intermediate portion of the output shaft 23. The direction and magnitude of the torque applied from the steering wheel 11 to the steering shaft 12 is detected by a torque sensor, and the electric motor 26 is driven in accordance with the detected value via a reduction mechanism comprising a worm and a worm wheel. Then, the output shaft 23 is caused to generate auxiliary torque with a predetermined magnitude in a predetermined direction. The assist device that generates the auxiliary torque is not limited to an electric type, and may be a hydraulic assist device.

図２は、本発明の実施例１の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図を示し、図１の自在継手５の一方のヨーク６と軸８との結合部に適用した例を示す。図２に示すように、本発明の実施例１の継手と軸の結合構造を有する自在継手５のヨーク６には、筒状の結合筒部７が形成され、結合筒部７の右側には、図示しない二股状のアーム部が一体的に形成され、このアーム部に形成された円孔に、軸受を介して十字軸が挿入され、この十字軸を介して、図１のヨーク６が結合されている。   2A and 2B are perspective views showing a coupling structure between a joint and a shaft according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the shaft, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder portion. The example applied to the joint part of one yoke 6 and the shaft 8 of the joint 5 is shown. As shown in FIG. 2, a cylindrical coupling cylinder portion 7 is formed on the yoke 6 of the universal joint 5 having the coupling and shaft coupling structure according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and on the right side of the coupling cylinder portion 7. A bifurcated arm portion (not shown) is integrally formed, and a cross shaft is inserted into a circular hole formed in the arm portion through a bearing, and the yoke 6 in FIG. 1 is coupled through the cross shaft. Has been.

結合筒部７の円筒状の内周面７１に、図２（ｂ）の左側から、内周面７１の中心軸線７１１に平行に、円柱状の軸８を挿入する。結合筒部７には、結合筒部７の外周面７３から内周面７１に連通するスリット（切り割り）７２が形成されている。結合筒部７には、ボルト７４のボルト軸部７４１を挿入するためのボルト孔７５が形成されている。また、結合筒部７には、ボルト７４の雄ねじ７４２をねじ込むための雌ねじ（図示せず）が、ボルト孔７５と同心状に形成されている。   A cylindrical shaft 8 is inserted into the cylindrical inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 from the left side of FIG. 2B in parallel to the central axis 711 of the inner peripheral surface 71. A slit (cut) 72 that communicates from the outer circumferential surface 73 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 to the inner circumferential surface 71 is formed in the coupling cylinder portion 7. A bolt hole 75 for inserting the bolt shaft portion 741 of the bolt 74 is formed in the coupling cylinder portion 7. In addition, a female screw (not shown) for screwing the male screw 742 of the bolt 74 is formed concentrically with the bolt hole 75 in the coupling cylinder portion 7.

また、軸８の外周面には、略Ｕ字形の凹部８２が形成されている。凹部８２は、軸８の中心軸線８３に直交し、かつ、ボルト孔７５の中心軸線７５１に平行に形成されている。軸８が結合筒部７の内周面７１の軸方向の正規位置（軸８の段差面８４が結合筒部７の左端面７６に当接した位置）に達していれば、ボルト軸部７４１が凹部８２を挿通する。従って、軸８が結合筒部７の内周面７１から抜け出そうとすると、ボルト軸部７４１の外周が凹部８２に当接して、軸８が結合筒部７の内周面７１から抜け出すのを防止する。   A substantially U-shaped recess 82 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The recess 82 is formed perpendicular to the central axis 83 of the shaft 8 and parallel to the central axis 751 of the bolt hole 75. If the shaft 8 has reached the normal position in the axial direction of the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling tube portion 7 (the position where the stepped surface 84 of the shaft 8 is in contact with the left end surface 76 of the coupling tube portion 7), the bolt shaft portion 741 is reached. Passes through the recess 82. Accordingly, when the shaft 8 tries to come out from the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7, the outer periphery of the bolt shaft portion 741 comes into contact with the recess 82, and the shaft 8 comes out of the inner circumferential surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7. To prevent.

結合筒部７の内周面７１には、係合部としてのキー溝７７が形成されている。キー溝７７は、スリット７２に対して１８０度異なる位相に形成されている。また、軸８の外周面には、キー溝７７に係合する被係合部としてのキー８５が形成されている。キー８５は、凹部８２に対して１８０度異なる位相に形成されている。キー８５の幅Ｗ４は、キー溝７７の溝幅Ｗ３よりも若干広く形成されて、しまりばめ嵌合になっている。キー８５の幅Ｗ４を、キー溝７７の溝幅Ｗ３よりも若干狭く形成し、キー８５が微少な隙間を有してキー溝７７と嵌合するようにしてもよい。なお、上では、キー溝７７がスリット７２に対して１８０度異なる位相をなすとしているが、これは１８０度に限らず９０度、４５度、１３５度などとすることも可能である。   A key groove 77 as an engaging portion is formed on the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7. The key groove 77 is formed in a phase different from the slit 72 by 180 degrees. A key 85 as an engaged portion that engages with the key groove 77 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The key 85 is formed in a phase that is 180 degrees different from the recess 82. The width W4 of the key 85 is formed to be slightly larger than the groove width W3 of the key groove 77, and is fit fit. The width W4 of the key 85 may be formed slightly narrower than the groove width W3 of the key groove 77, and the key 85 may be fitted into the key groove 77 with a minute gap. In the above description, the key groove 77 has a phase different from that of the slit 72 by 180 degrees. However, this is not limited to 180 degrees, and may be 90 degrees, 45 degrees, 135 degrees, or the like.

結合筒部７の内周面７１に軸８を挿入し、キー溝７７にキー８５を係合させた後、ボルト孔７５に、図２の右側からボルト７４を挿入し、雌ねじに雄ねじ７４２をねじ込む。すると、結合筒部７が弾性変形してスリット７２の溝幅が狭まり、軸８の外周面を結合筒部７の内周面７１で強く締付けて固定する。スリット７２の溝幅が狭まるため、結合筒部７の内周面７１が縮径して、軸８の外周面を締付ける。   After the shaft 8 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the key 85 is engaged with the key groove 77, the bolt 74 is inserted into the bolt hole 75 from the right side of FIG. Screw in. Then, the coupling cylinder part 7 is elastically deformed and the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is strongly tightened and fixed by the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder part 7. Since the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 is reduced in diameter, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is tightened.

結合筒部７と軸８との間に大きな回転トルクが作用すると、キー８５からキー溝７７に力が加わる。ボルト７４の締付け力が小さくてもスリット７２には回転トルクは作用しないため、内周面７１が軸８の外周面を締付ける締付け力は低下しない。また、キー８５とキー溝７７との間にはガタが生じず、結合筒部７と軸８との間の回転方向のガタが小さくなるため、ステアリングホイールの操舵感が低下する恐れはない。   When a large rotational torque acts between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8, a force is applied from the key 85 to the key groove 77. Even if the tightening force of the bolt 74 is small, no rotational torque acts on the slit 72, so that the tightening force with which the inner peripheral surface 71 tightens the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 does not decrease. Further, no backlash occurs between the key 85 and the key groove 77, and the backlash in the rotational direction between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8 is reduced, so that the steering feeling of the steering wheel is not lowered.

次に本発明の実施例２について説明する。図３は本発明の実施例２の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。以下の説明では、上記実施例と異なる構造部分についてのみ説明し、重複する説明は省略する。また、同一部品には同一番号を付して説明する。実施例２は実施例１の変形例であって、結合筒部７の内周面７１に、スリット７２の円周上の両側近傍にキー溝を追加した例である。   Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. 3A and 3B are perspective views showing a coupling structure between a joint and a shaft according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the shaft, and FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder portion. In the following description, only structural parts different from the above-described embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted. Further, the same parts will be described with the same numbers. The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment, in which key grooves are added to the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the slit 72.

図３に示すように、結合筒部７には、実施例１と同様に、スリット７２、ボルト孔７５、キー溝７７が形成され、軸８の外周面にも、実施例１と同様に、略Ｕ字形の凹部８２、キー８５が形成されている。実施例２では、結合筒部７の内周面７１に、キー溝７８、７８が形成されている。キー溝７８、７８は、スリット７２の円周上の両側近傍に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 3, the coupling cylinder portion 7 is formed with slits 72, bolt holes 75, and key grooves 77 similarly to the first embodiment, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is also similar to the first embodiment. A substantially U-shaped recess 82 and a key 85 are formed. In the second embodiment, key grooves 78 and 78 are formed on the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7. The key grooves 78 and 78 are formed in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the slit 72.

また、軸８の外周面には、キー溝７８、７８に係合するキー８６、８６が形成されている。キー８６、８６は、凹部８２の円周上の両側近傍に形成されている。キー８６、８６の幅Ｗ６は、キー溝７８、７８の溝幅Ｗ５よりも若干広く形成されて、しまりばめ嵌合になっている。キー８６、８６の幅Ｗ６を、キー溝７８、７８の溝幅Ｗ５よりも若干狭く形成し、キー８６、８６が微少な隙間を有してキー溝７８、７８と嵌合するようにしてもよい。   Further, keys 86 and 86 that engage with the key grooves 78 and 78 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The keys 86 and 86 are formed in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the recess 82. The width W6 of the keys 86, 86 is formed to be slightly wider than the groove width W5 of the key grooves 78, 78, and is fit fit. The width W6 of the keys 86, 86 is formed slightly narrower than the groove width W5 of the key grooves 78, 78 so that the keys 86, 86 are fitted with the key grooves 78, 78 with a minute gap. Good.

結合筒部７の内周面７１に軸８を挿入し、キー溝７７にキー８５を係合させ、キー溝７８、７８にキー８６、８６を係合させた後、ボルト孔７５に、図３の右側からボルト７４を挿入し、雌ねじに雄ねじ７４２をねじ込む。すると、結合筒部７が弾性変形してスリット７２の溝幅が狭まり、軸８の外周面を結合筒部７の内周面７１で強く締付けて固定する。スリット７２の溝幅が狭まるため、結合筒部７の内周面７１が縮径して、軸８の外周面を締付ける。   The shaft 8 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7, the key 85 is engaged with the key groove 77, the keys 86, 86 are engaged with the key grooves 78, 78, and then the bolt hole 75 is inserted into the bolt hole 75. 3 is inserted from the right side, and a male screw 742 is screwed into the female screw. Then, the coupling cylinder part 7 is elastically deformed and the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is strongly tightened and fixed by the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder part 7. Since the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 is reduced in diameter, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is tightened.

結合筒部７と軸８との間に大きな回転トルクが作用すると、キー８５からキー溝７７に力が加わり、キー８６、８６からもキー溝７８、７８に力が加わる。ボルト７４の締付け力が小さくてもスリット７２には回転トルクは作用しないため、内周面７１が軸８の外周面を締付ける締付け力は低下しない。また、キー８５とキー溝７７との間にはガタが生じない。また、キー８５と対向した位置に配置されたキー８６、８６とキー溝７８、７８も係合しているため、結合筒部７と軸８との間のガタが極めて小さくなるため、ステアリングホイールの操舵感が低下する恐れはない。   When a large rotational torque acts between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8, a force is applied from the key 85 to the key groove 77, and a force is also applied from the keys 86, 86 to the key grooves 78, 78. Even if the tightening force of the bolt 74 is small, no rotational torque acts on the slit 72, so that the tightening force with which the inner peripheral surface 71 tightens the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 does not decrease. Further, no play occurs between the key 85 and the key groove 77. Further, since the keys 86 and 86 disposed at positions facing the key 85 are also engaged with the key grooves 78 and 78, the backlash between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8 becomes extremely small. There is no fear that the steering feeling will decrease.

次に本発明の実施例３について説明する。図４は本発明の実施例３の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。以下の説明では、上記実施例と異なる構造部分についてのみ説明し、重複する説明は省略する。また、同一部品には同一番号を付して説明する。実施例３は実施例１の変形例であって、結合筒部７の内周面７１に、キー溝の代わりにキーを形成した例である。   Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. 4A and 4B are perspective views showing a coupling structure between a joint and a shaft according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the shaft, and FIG. 4B is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder portion. In the following description, only structural parts different from the above-described embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted. Further, the same parts will be described with the same numbers. The third embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment, in which a key is formed on the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 instead of the key groove.

図４に示すように、結合筒部７には、実施例１と同様に、スリット７２、ボルト孔７５が形成され、軸８の外周面にも、実施例１と同様に、略Ｕ字形の凹部８２が形成されている。実施例３では、結合筒部７の内周面７１には、係合部としてのキー７９が形成されている。キー７９は、スリット７２に対して１８０度異なる位相に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 4, the coupling cylinder portion 7 is formed with slits 72 and bolt holes 75 as in the first embodiment, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is also substantially U-shaped in the same manner as in the first embodiment. A recess 82 is formed. In the third embodiment, a key 79 as an engaging portion is formed on the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7. The key 79 is formed in a phase different from the slit 72 by 180 degrees.

また、軸８の外周面には、キー７９に係合する被係合部としてのキー溝８７が形成されている。キー溝８７は、凹部８２に対して１８０度異なる位相に形成されている。キー溝８７の溝幅Ｗ８は、キー７９の幅Ｗ７よりも若干狭く形成されて、しまりばめ嵌合になっている。キー溝８７の溝幅Ｗ８を、キー７９の幅Ｗ７よりも若干広く形成し、キー溝８７が微少な隙間を有してキー７９と嵌合するようにしてもよい。   A key groove 87 as an engaged portion that engages with the key 79 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The keyway 87 is formed in a phase that is 180 degrees different from the recess 82. The groove width W8 of the key groove 87 is formed to be slightly narrower than the width W7 of the key 79, and is fit fit. The groove width W8 of the key groove 87 may be formed slightly wider than the width W7 of the key 79, and the key groove 87 may be fitted with the key 79 with a minute gap.

結合筒部７の内周面７１に軸８を挿入し、キー７９にキー溝８７を係合させた後、ボルト孔７５に、図４の右側からボルト７４を挿入し、雌ねじに雄ねじ７４２をねじ込む。すると、結合筒部７が弾性変形してスリット７２の溝幅が狭まり、軸８の外周面を結合筒部７の内周面７１で強く締付けて固定する。スリット７２の溝幅が狭まるため、結合筒部７の内周面７１が縮径して、軸８の外周面を締付ける。   After the shaft 8 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder part 7 and the key groove 87 is engaged with the key 79, the bolt 74 is inserted into the bolt hole 75 from the right side of FIG. Screw in. Then, the coupling cylinder part 7 is elastically deformed and the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is strongly tightened and fixed by the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder part 7. Since the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 is reduced in diameter, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is tightened.

結合筒部７と軸８との間に大きな回転トルクが作用すると、キー溝８７からキー７９に力が加わる。ボルト７４の締付け力が小さくてもスリット７２には回転トルクは作用しないため、内周面７１が軸８の外周面を締付ける締付け力は低下しない。また、キー溝８７とキー７９との間にはガタが生じず、結合筒部７と軸８との間の回転方向のガタが小さくなるため、ステアリングホイールの操舵感が低下する恐れはない。   When a large rotational torque acts between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8, a force is applied from the key groove 87 to the key 79. Even if the tightening force of the bolt 74 is small, no rotational torque acts on the slit 72, so that the tightening force with which the inner peripheral surface 71 tightens the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 does not decrease. Further, no backlash occurs between the key groove 87 and the key 79, and the backlash in the rotational direction between the coupling tube portion 7 and the shaft 8 is reduced, so that the steering feeling of the steering wheel is not lowered.

次に本発明の実施例４について説明する。図５は本発明の実施例４の継手と軸の結合構造を示す斜視図であり、（ａ）は軸の斜視図、（ｂ）は結合筒部の斜視図である。以下の説明では、上記実施例と異なる構造部分についてのみ説明し、重複する説明は省略する。また、同一部品には同一番号を付して説明する。実施例４は実施例３の変形例であって、結合筒部７の内周面７１に、スリット７２の円周上の両側近傍にキー溝を追加した例である。   Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. 5A and 5B are perspective views showing a coupling structure between a joint and a shaft according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the shaft, and FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a coupling cylinder portion. In the following description, only structural parts different from the above-described embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted. Further, the same parts will be described with the same numbers. The fourth embodiment is a modification of the third embodiment, in which a key groove is added to the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the slit 72.

図５に示すように、結合筒部７には、実施例３と同様に、スリット７２、ボルト孔７５、キー７９が形成され、軸８の外周面にも、実施例１と同様に、略Ｕ字形の凹部８２、キー溝８７が形成されている。実施例４では、結合筒部７の内周面７１に、キー溝７８、７８が形成されている。キー溝７８、７８は、スリット７２の円周上の両側近傍に形成されている。   As shown in FIG. 5, a slit 72, a bolt hole 75, and a key 79 are formed in the coupling cylinder portion 7 as in the third embodiment, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is also substantially the same as in the first embodiment. A U-shaped recess 82 and a keyway 87 are formed. In the fourth embodiment, key grooves 78 and 78 are formed on the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7. The key grooves 78 and 78 are formed in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the slit 72.

また、軸８の外周面には、キー溝７８、７８に係合するキー８６、８６が形成されている。キー８６、８６は、凹部８２の円周上の両側近傍に形成されている。キー８６、８６の幅Ｗ６は、キー溝７８、７８の溝幅Ｗ５よりも若干広く形成されて、しまりばめ嵌合になっている。キー８６、８６の幅Ｗ６を、キー溝７８、７８の溝幅Ｗ５よりも若干狭く形成し、キー８６、８６が微少な隙間を有してキー溝７８、７８と嵌合するようにしてもよい。   Further, keys 86 and 86 that engage with the key grooves 78 and 78 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8. The keys 86 and 86 are formed in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the recess 82. The width W6 of the keys 86, 86 is formed to be slightly wider than the groove width W5 of the key grooves 78, 78, and is fit fit. The width W6 of the keys 86, 86 is formed slightly narrower than the groove width W5 of the key grooves 78, 78 so that the keys 86, 86 are fitted with the key grooves 78, 78 with a minute gap. Good.

結合筒部７の内周面７１に軸８を挿入し、キー７９にキー溝８７を係合させ、キー溝７８、７８にキー８６、８６を係合させた後、ボルト孔７５に、図５の右側からボルト７４を挿入し、雌ねじに雄ねじ７４２をねじ込む。すると、結合筒部７が弾性変形してスリット７２の溝幅が狭まり、軸８の外周面を結合筒部７の内周面７１で強く締付けて固定する。スリット７２の溝幅が狭まるため、結合筒部７の内周面７１が縮径して、軸８の外周面を締付ける。   The shaft 8 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7, the key groove 87 is engaged with the key 79, the keys 86 and 86 are engaged with the key grooves 78 and 78, and then the bolt hole 75 is The bolt 74 is inserted from the right side of 5, and the male screw 742 is screwed into the female screw. Then, the coupling cylinder part 7 is elastically deformed and the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is strongly tightened and fixed by the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder part 7. Since the groove width of the slit 72 is narrowed, the inner peripheral surface 71 of the coupling cylinder portion 7 is reduced in diameter, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 is tightened.

結合筒部７と軸８との間に大きな回転トルクが作用すると、キー溝８７からキー７９に力が加わり、キー８６、８６からもキー溝７８、７８に力が加わる。ボルト７４の締付け力が小さくてもスリット７２には回転トルクは作用しないため、内周面７１が軸８の外周面を締付ける締付け力は低下しない。また、キー溝８７とキー７９との間にはガタが生じない。また、キー溝８７と対向した位置に配置されたキー８６、８６とキー溝７８、７８も係合しているため、結合筒部７と軸８との間のガタが極めて小さくなるため、ステアリングホイールの操舵感が低下する恐れはない。   When a large rotational torque acts between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8, a force is applied from the key groove 87 to the key 79, and a force is also applied from the keys 86, 86 to the key grooves 78, 78. Even if the tightening force of the bolt 74 is small, no rotational torque acts on the slit 72, so that the tightening force with which the inner peripheral surface 71 tightens the outer peripheral surface of the shaft 8 does not decrease. Further, no play occurs between the keyway 87 and the key 79. Further, since the keys 86, 86 and the key grooves 78, 78 disposed at positions facing the key groove 87 are also engaged, the backlash between the coupling cylinder portion 7 and the shaft 8 becomes extremely small, so that the steering There is no fear that the steering feeling of the wheel will decrease.

上記実施例では、結合筒部の一方にボルト孔７５が形成され、他方に雌ねじが形成された自在継手に適用した例について説明したが、結合筒部の両方にボルト孔７５、７５を形成し、ボルト７４の雄ねじ７４２にナットをねじ込むようにした自在継手に適用してもよい。   In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the bolt hole 75 is formed on one side of the coupling cylinder part and the female screw is formed on the other side is described. However, the bolt holes 75 and 75 are formed on both of the coupling cylinder parts. The present invention may be applied to a universal joint in which a nut is screwed into a male screw 742 of a bolt 74.

１１ ステアリングホイール
１２ ステアリングシャフト
１２Ａ 雌ステアリングシャフト
１２Ｂ 雄ステアリングシャフト
１３ ステアリングコラム
１３Ａ アウターコラム
１３Ｂ インナーコラム
１４ 支持ブラケット
１５ 中間シャフト
１５Ａ 雄中間シャフト
１５Ｂ 雌中間シャフト
１８ 車体
２０ アシスト装置
２１ ギヤハウジング
２３ 出力軸
２６ 電動モータ
２６１ ケース
３０ ステアリングギヤ
３１ タイロッド
４ 自在継手（上側自在継手）
５ 自在継手（下側自在継手）
６ ヨーク
７ 結合筒部
７１ 内周面
７１１ 中心軸線
７２ スリット（切り割り）
７３ 外周面
７４ ボルト
７４１ ボルト軸部
７４２ 雄ねじ
７５ ボルト孔
７５１ 中心軸線
７６ 左端面
７７ キー溝
７８ キー溝
７９ キー
８ 軸（ピニオン軸）
８１ キー
８２ 凹部
８３ 中心軸線
８４ 段差面
８５ キー
８６ キー
８７ キー溝 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Steering wheel 12 Steering shaft 12A Female steering shaft 12B Male steering shaft 13 Steering column 13A Outer column 13B Inner column 14 Support bracket 15 Intermediate shaft 15A Male intermediate shaft 15B Female intermediate shaft 18 Car body 20 Assist device 21 Gear housing 23 Output shaft 26 Electric Motor 261 Case 30 Steering gear 31 Tie rod 4 Universal joint (upper universal joint)
5 Universal joint (lower universal joint)
6 Yoke 7 Coupling cylinder 71 Inner peripheral surface 711 Central axis 72 Slit (cut)
73 Outer peripheral surface 74 Bolt 741 Bolt shaft portion 742 Male thread 75 Bolt hole 751 Center axis 76 Left end surface 77 Key groove 78 Key groove 79 Key 8 shaft (Pinion shaft)
81 Key 82 Recess 83 Central axis 84 Step surface 85 Key 86 Key 87 Key groove

Claims (5)

軸を嵌合するための内周面を備えた結合筒部を有する継手、
上記結合筒部の内周面に結合筒部の軸方向に平行に挿入され、結合筒部の内周面に回転トルクを伝達可能に内嵌する外周面を有する軸、
上記結合筒部に形成され、結合筒部の外周面から内周面に貫通するスリット、
上記結合筒部に形成されたボルト孔にボルト軸部を内嵌し、上記スリットの間隔を狭めて、上記結合筒部の内周面を縮径し、上記軸の外周面を結合筒部の内周面で締め付けるボルト、
上記軸の外周面に上記ボルト孔の位相と同一の円周上の位相に形成され、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、上記ボルトに係合して軸が結合筒部から抜け出すのを防止する凹部、
上記結合筒部の内周面に上記スリットの位相とは異なる円周上の位相に形成され、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、軸に回転トルクを伝達可能に係合する係合部、
上記軸の外周面に上記係合部の位相と同一の円周上の位相に形成され、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、係合部に係合する被係合部を備えたこと
を特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造。 A joint having a coupling cylinder portion having an inner peripheral surface for fitting the shaft;
A shaft having an outer peripheral surface that is inserted in parallel to the axial direction of the coupling cylinder portion on the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder portion, and is fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder portion so as to transmit rotational torque.
A slit formed in the coupling cylinder part and penetrating from the outer circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder part to the inner circumferential surface;
Bolt shaft portions are fitted into bolt holes formed in the coupling cylinder portion, the gap between the slits is narrowed, the inner circumferential surface of the coupling cylinder portion is reduced in diameter, and the outer circumferential surface of the shaft is coupled to the coupling cylinder portion. Bolts tightened on the inner surface,
The outer circumferential surface of the shaft is formed in the same circumferential phase as the phase of the bolt hole, and when the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion, the shaft is engaged with the bolt. A recess to prevent it from coming out of the coupling cylinder,
Formed on the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder part in a circumferential phase different from the phase of the slit, and when the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder part, rotational torque can be transmitted to the axis An engaging portion that engages with
Formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft with the same circumferential phase as the phase of the engaging portion, and when the shaft is inserted at a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion, the object to be engaged with the engaging portion is formed. A joint-shaft coupling structure characterized by comprising an engaging portion. 請求項１に記載された継手と軸の結合構造において、
上記結合筒部の係合部が、内周面の軸方向に平行に形成されたキー溝であり、
上記軸の被係合部が、軸の軸方向に平行に形成され上記キー溝に係合するキーであること
を特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造。 In the coupling and shaft coupling structure according to claim 1,
The engaging part of the coupling cylinder part is a key groove formed in parallel to the axial direction of the inner peripheral surface,
A coupling structure of a joint and a shaft, wherein the engaged portion of the shaft is a key that is formed in parallel with the axial direction of the shaft and engages with the key groove. 請求項１に記載された継手と軸の結合構造において、
上記結合筒部の係合部が、内周面の軸方向に平行に形成されたキーであり、
上記軸の被係合部が、軸の軸方向に平行に形成され上記キーに係合するキー溝であること
を特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造。 In the coupling and shaft coupling structure according to claim 1,
The engaging part of the coupling cylinder part is a key formed in parallel with the axial direction of the inner peripheral surface,
The joint-shaft coupling structure, wherein the engaged portion of the shaft is a key groove that is formed in parallel with the axial direction of the shaft and engages with the key. 請求項２から請求項３までのいずれかに記載された継手と軸の結合構造において、
上記結合筒部の係合部は、上記スリットに対して１８０度異なる位相に形成され、
上記結合筒部の内周面には、上記スリットの円周上の両側近傍にキー溝が形成され、
上記軸の外周面には、上記軸が結合筒部の所定の軸方向位置に挿入された時に、上記キー溝に係合するキーが形成されていること
を特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造。 In the coupling and shaft coupling structure according to any one of claims 2 to 3,
The engaging part of the coupling cylinder part is formed in a phase different from the slit by 180 degrees,
On the inner peripheral surface of the coupling cylinder part, key grooves are formed in the vicinity of both sides on the circumference of the slit,
A coupling structure of a joint and a shaft, wherein a key that engages with the key groove when the shaft is inserted into a predetermined axial position of the coupling cylinder portion is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft. . 請求項４に記載された継手と軸の結合構造において、
上記結合筒部は自在継手のヨークに一体的に形成されていること
を特徴とする継手と軸の結合構造。 In the joint and shaft coupling structure according to claim 4,
A coupling structure of a joint and a shaft, wherein the coupling cylinder part is integrally formed with a yoke of a universal joint.
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CN106151300A (en) * 2016-07-29 2016-11-23 衢州市煜鑫农产品加工技术开发有限公司 A kind of shaft coupling for elastic press type milling device
JP2019044945A (en) * 2017-09-07 2019-03-22 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN111065835A (en) * 2017-09-07 2020-04-24 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN112436621A (en) * 2019-08-26 2021-03-02 东芝三菱电机产业系统株式会社 Stator torque transmission structure, motor drive system, and method for assembling stator torque transmission structure
CN113330227A (en) * 2019-01-23 2021-08-31 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft

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Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN106151300A (en) * 2016-07-29 2016-11-23 衢州市煜鑫农产品加工技术开发有限公司 A kind of shaft coupling for elastic press type milling device
JP2019044945A (en) * 2017-09-07 2019-03-22 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN111065835A (en) * 2017-09-07 2020-04-24 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN111065835B (en) * 2017-09-07 2022-04-29 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN113330227A (en) * 2019-01-23 2021-08-31 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN113330227B (en) * 2019-01-23 2024-04-19 日本精工株式会社 Torque transmission shaft
CN112436621A (en) * 2019-08-26 2021-03-02 东芝三菱电机产业系统株式会社 Stator torque transmission structure, motor drive system, and method for assembling stator torque transmission structure
CN112436621B (en) * 2019-08-26 2023-11-03 东芝三菱电机产业系统株式会社 Stator torque transmission structure, motor drive system, and method for assembling stator torque transmission structure

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