JP5310712B2 - Cross shaft universal joint - Google Patents

Cross shaft universal joint Download PDF

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JP5310712B2
JP5310712B2 JP2010293026A JP2010293026A JP5310712B2 JP 5310712 B2 JP5310712 B2 JP 5310712B2 JP 2010293026 A JP2010293026 A JP 2010293026A JP 2010293026 A JP2010293026 A JP 2010293026A JP 5310712 B2 JP5310712 B2 JP 5310712B2
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ball
shaft
elastic member
peripheral surface
cross
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JP2012140998A (en
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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
    • F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
    • F16C33/00—Parts of bearings; Special methods for making bearings or parts thereof
    • F16C33/30—Parts of ball or roller bearings
    • F16C33/32—Balls
    • 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
    • F16C19/02—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing balls essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows
    • F16C19/04—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing balls essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows for radial load mainly
    • F16C19/08—Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing balls essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows for radial load mainly with two or more rows of balls
    • 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
    • F16C19/50—Other types of ball or roller bearings
    • F16C19/505—Other types of ball or roller bearings with the diameter of the rolling elements of one row differing from the diameter of those of another row
    • 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
    • F16C21/00—Combinations of sliding-contact bearings with ball or roller bearings, for exclusively rotary movement
    • F16C21/005—Combinations of sliding-contact bearings with ball or roller bearings, for exclusively rotary movement the external zone of a bearing with rolling members, e.g. needles, being cup-shaped, with or without a separate thrust-bearing disc or ring, e.g. for universal joints
    • 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
    • F16C27/00—Elastic or yielding bearings or bearing supports, for exclusively rotary movement
    • F16C27/04—Ball or roller bearings, e.g. with resilient rolling bodies
    • 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
    • F16D3/385—Bearing cup; Bearing construction; Bearing seal; Mounting of bearing on the intermediate member
    • 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
    • F16D3/40—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 with intermediate member provided with two pairs of outwardly-directed trunnions on intersecting axes
    • F16D3/41—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 with intermediate member provided with two pairs of outwardly-directed trunnions on intersecting axes with ball or roller bearings

Description

本発明は十字軸自在継手、特に、車両用ステアリング装置に組み込まれる十字軸自在継手に関する。   The present invention relates to a cruciform universal joint, and more particularly to a cruciform universal joint incorporated in a vehicle steering apparatus.

ステアリング装置は、ステアリングホイールの回転をステアリングギヤに伝達するアッパーシャフトとロアーシャフトとの間に、十字軸自在継手を介在させ、同一軸線上にない二つのシャフトの間で、回転トルクを伝達可能にしている。十字軸自在継手は、ヨークの軸受孔に、複数の針状ころを有する針状ころ軸受を介して、十字状に配置された４本の軸部を有する十字軸が回転自在に軸支されている。   The steering device has a cross joint between the upper shaft and the lower shaft that transmits the rotation of the steering wheel to the steering gear, so that rotational torque can be transmitted between two shafts that are not on the same axis. ing. The cross shaft universal joint is configured such that a cross shaft having four shaft portions arranged in a cross shape is rotatably supported in a bearing hole of a yoke via a needle roller bearing having a plurality of needle rollers. Yes.

このような十字軸自在継手は、十字軸で連結されるヨーク同士のがたつき音の発生を防止するために、十字軸の軸部と針状ころ軸受を締まりばめ嵌合にしている。締まりばめ嵌合にすると、がたつき音の発生を防止することはできるが、針状ころ軸受の回転トルクが大きくなるため、ステアリングホイールを操作するのに要する力が大きなってしまう。また、圧入時の十字軸の軸部や針状ころの傷付きを防止するためには、組み込み速度を遅くする必要があり、また、高い部品精度が必要なため、製造コストが上昇する問題があった。
In such a cross shaft universal joint, in order to prevent generation of rattling noise between the yokes connected by the cross shaft, the shaft portion of the cross shaft and the needle roller bearing are fitted with an interference fit. If the fit mating interference fit, although it is possible to prevent generation of rattle, since the rotational torque of needle roller bearings is increased, the force required to operate the steering wheel becomes large. In addition, in order to prevent the shaft part of the cross shaft and the needle rollers from being damaged during press-fitting, it is necessary to slow down the assembly speed, and high part accuracy is required, which increases the manufacturing cost. there were.

特許文献１の十字軸自在継手は、外輪と十字軸の軸部との間に針状ころとボールを介挿し、ボールには予圧を付与し、針状ころにはラジアルすきまを付与している。これによって、伝達トルクが小さい時には、外輪と軸部との間でボールのみを介してトルクを伝達し、回転トルクを小さくする。一方、伝達トルクが大きい時には、外輪と軸部との間でボールおよび針状ころを介してトルクを伝達して、高い負荷容量を実現している。   In the cross shaft universal joint of Patent Document 1, a needle roller and a ball are inserted between the outer ring and the shaft portion of the cross shaft, a preload is applied to the ball, and a radial clearance is applied to the needle roller. . As a result, when the transmission torque is small, the torque is transmitted only between the outer ring and the shaft portion via the ball, thereby reducing the rotational torque. On the other hand, when the transmission torque is large, torque is transmitted between the outer ring and the shaft portion via a ball and needle rollers to realize a high load capacity.

しかし、特許文献１の十字軸自在継手は、伝達トルクを大きくした時に、ボールの弾性限度内で、ボールと針状ころを、外輪と軸部に同時に当接させるためには、各部品を高精度に製造する必要があるため、製造コストが上昇する問題があった。   However, the cross joint universal joint disclosed in Patent Document 1 requires each component to be high in order to bring the ball and the needle roller into contact with the outer ring and the shaft at the same time within the elastic limit of the ball when the transmission torque is increased. There is a problem that the manufacturing cost increases because it is necessary to manufacture with high accuracy.

特開２００７−７８１３６号公報JP 2007-78136 A

本発明は、大トルクの伝達が可能で、十字軸で連結されるヨーク同士のがたつき音の発生を防止するとともに、ステアリングホイールを操作するのに要する力を抑制することを可能にした十字軸自在継手を提供することを課題とする。   The present invention is capable of transmitting a large torque, prevents generation of rattling noise between yokes connected by a cross shaft, and reduces the force required to operate the steering wheel. It is an object to provide a universal shaft joint.

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、一対のヨーク、上記一対のヨークに各々形成され、二股状に対向する一対のアーム部、上記一対のアーム部に各々形成され、同一軸線上に配置された一対の軸受孔、および、上記軸受孔に軸受を介して揺動自在に嵌合される軸部を有する十字軸を備えた十字軸自在継手であって、上記軸受は、上記一対の軸受孔に各々内嵌する有底筒状の外輪、上記外輪の内周面と上記十字軸の軸部外周面との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿され、軸部外周面を環状に取り囲む弾性部材製のボール、上記外輪の内周面と十字軸の軸部外周面との間にすきまばめ嵌合で介挿され、軸部外周面を環状に取り囲む高剛性部材製のボール、上記弾性部材製のボールと高剛性部材製のボールを回転可能に保持し、弾性部材製のボールと高剛性部材製のボールとの間の間隔を一定に保持する保持器を備え、更に、上記十字軸の先端面が上記外輪の底部内面に当接しているとともに、上記高剛性部材製のボールが軸方向の両端に配置され、上記弾性部材製のボールがその間に配置された軸受であることを特徴とする十字軸自在継手である。
The above problem is solved by the following means. That is, the first invention is a pair of yokes, a pair of arm portions formed on the pair of yokes, respectively, a pair of arm portions opposed to each other in a bifurcated shape, and a pair of arm portions formed on the same axis. And a cross shaft universal joint having a cross shaft having a shaft portion that is slidably fitted to the bearing hole via a bearing, wherein the bearings are respectively connected to the pair of bearing holes. bottomed cylindrical outer ring to the inner fitting, inserted in interference fit fit between the inner surface and the shaft portion outer circumferential surface of the cross shaft of the outer ring, elastic member surrounding the shaft portion outer circumferential surface in an annular A ball made of a high-rigidity member interposed between the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring and the shaft outer peripheral surface of the cross shaft by a clearance fit and encircling the shaft outer peripheral surface in an annular shape, made of the elastic member The ball made of high-rigidity member and the ball made of high-rigidity member are held rotatably, and the ball made of elastic member and high-rigidity part A holding unit that holds the distance between the manufacturing of the ball constant and further, the tip face of the cross shaft is in contact with the inner bottom surface of the outer ring, the high-rigidity member made of balls in the axial direction A cross shaft universal joint, characterized in that it is a bearing disposed at both ends, and the ball made of the elastic member is disposed therebetween .

本発明の十字軸自在継手は、軸受孔に内嵌する有底筒状の外輪と、外輪の内周面と十字軸の軸部外周面との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿され、軸部外周面を環状に取り囲む弾性部材製のボールと、外輪の内周面と十字軸の軸部外周面との間にすきまばめ嵌合で介挿され、軸部外周面を環状に取り囲む高剛性部材製のボールと、弾性部材製のボールと高剛性部材製のボールを回転可能に保持し、弾性部材製のボールと高剛性部材製のボールとの間の間隔を一定に保持する保持器とから構成されている。   The cross shaft universal joint of the present invention is inserted by a tight fit between the bottomed cylindrical outer ring fitted inside the bearing hole, and the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring and the shaft outer peripheral surface of the cross shaft, A ball made of an elastic member that annularly surrounds the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion and an inner peripheral surface of the outer ring and a shaft outer peripheral surface of the cross shaft are inserted with a clearance fit, and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion is surrounded annularly. A ball made of a highly rigid member, a ball made of an elastic member, and a ball made of a highly rigid member are rotatably held, and the gap between the ball made of the elastic member and the ball made of the highly rigid member is kept constant. It consists of a container.

従って、伝達トルクが小さい時には、軸部は締まりばめ嵌合している弾性部材製のボールを介して回転するため、軸部のがたつき音の発生が防止され、軸部の回転トルクを抑制することができる。また、伝達トルクが大きくなると、弾性部材製のボールが弾性変形し、軸部は、高剛性部材製のボールと弾性部材製のボールの両方を介して回転するため、大きな伝達トルクを伝えることができる。   Therefore, when the transmission torque is small, the shaft portion rotates via a ball made of an elastic member that is fitted with an interference fit, so that rattling noise of the shaft portion is prevented and the rotational torque of the shaft portion is reduced. Can be suppressed. Further, when the transmission torque increases, the elastic member ball is elastically deformed, and the shaft portion rotates through both the high-rigidity member ball and the elastic member ball, so that a large transmission torque can be transmitted. it can.

本発明の十字軸自在継手を有するステアリング装置の全体を示し、一部を断面した正面図であって、電動パワーステアリング装置に適用した実施例を示す。BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The steering apparatus which has the cross-axis universal joint of this invention is shown whole, it is the front view which carried out the cross section, Comprising: The Example applied to the electric power steering apparatus is shown. 本発明の実施例１の十字軸自在継手の一部を断面した側面図である。It is the side view which carried out the cross section of a part of cross shaft universal joint of Example 1 of this invention. 図２の十字軸自在継手の十字軸近傍の拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the cross shaft vicinity of the cross shaft universal joint of FIG. 図３の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the axial part of the cross shaft of FIG. 本発明の実施例２の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the axial part of the cross shaft of Example 2 of the present invention. 本発明の実施例３の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the axial part of the cross shaft of Example 3 of the present invention. 本発明の実施例４の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。It is an expanded sectional view of the axial part of the cross shaft of Example 4 of the present invention.

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、本発明の十字軸自在継手を有するステアリング装置の全体を示し、一部を断面した正面図であって、電動パワーステアリング装置に適用した実施例を示す。   FIG. 1 is an overall view of a steering apparatus having a cross joint according to the present invention, and is a partially sectional front view showing an embodiment applied to an electric power steering apparatus.

図１に示すように、本発明の十字軸自在継手を有する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。   As shown in FIG. 1, a steering apparatus having a cross joint according to the present invention includes a steering shaft 12 on which a steering wheel 11 can be mounted on the rear side of the vehicle body (right side in FIG. 1), and a steering through which the steering shaft 12 is inserted. A column 13, an assist device (steering assisting portion) 20 for applying auxiliary torque to the steering shaft 12, and a rack / pinion mechanism (not shown) are provided on the vehicle body front side (left side in FIG. 1) of the steering shaft 12. And a steering gear 30 connected to each other.

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おり、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。   Further, the cylindrical steering column 13 inserted through the steering shaft 12 combines the outer column 13A and the inner column 13B so that they can be telescopically moved. It has a so-called collapsible structure in which the entire length is shortened while absorbing water.

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、十字軸自在継手１５を介して、中間シャフト１６の後端部に連結している。また、この中間シャフト１６の前端部に、別の十字軸自在継手１５を介して、ステアリングギヤ３０の入力軸３１を連結している。中間シャフト１６は、雄中間シャフト（雄シャフト）１６Ａの車体前方側に、雌中間シャフト（雌シャフト）１６Ｂ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 end face on the vehicle body front side of the gear housing 21 is connected to the rear end portion of the intermediate shaft 16 via the cross shaft universal joint 15. Further, the input shaft 31 of the steering gear 30 is coupled to the front end portion of the intermediate shaft 16 via another cross shaft universal joint 15. The intermediate shaft 16 is fitted on the vehicle body front side of the male intermediate shaft (male shaft) 16A on the vehicle body rear side of the female intermediate shaft (female shaft) 16B, so that rotational torque can be transmitted and relative movement in the axial direction is possible. Is fitted.

図示しないピニオンが、入力軸３１に結合している。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の回転が、タイロッド３２を移動させて、図示しない車輪を操舵する。   A pinion (not shown) is coupled to the input shaft 31. A rack (not shown) meshes with the pinion, and the rotation of the steering wheel moves the tie rod 32 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。   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.

図２は本発明の実施例１の十字軸自在継手の一部を断面した側面図、図３は図２の十字軸自在継手の十字軸近傍の拡大断面図、図４は図３の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。図２から図４に示すように、十字軸自在継手１５は、先端が二股状に分かれたアーム部を有する一対のヨーク４、４の間に、十字状の十字軸５が介装してある。すなわち、ヨーク４の軸受孔４１に、軸受６を介して、十字軸５両端の軸部５１、５１が揺動自在に嵌合している。   2 is a side view showing a cross section of a part of the cross shaft universal joint according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cross shaft of the cross shaft universal joint shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. It is an expanded sectional view of a shaft part. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the cruciform universal joint 15 has a cruciform cross shaft 5 interposed between a pair of yokes 4 and 4 having an arm portion with a bifurcated tip. . That is, the shaft portions 51 and 51 at both ends of the cross shaft 5 are fitted in the bearing hole 41 of the yoke 4 through the bearing 6 so as to be swingable.

軸受６の外輪６１は、有底筒状（円筒カップ状）の金属製で、軸受孔４１に締まりばめ嵌合する筒状部６２と、図４で見て、筒状部６２の上端に閉鎖して形成された底部６３と、筒状部６２の下端に形成され、開放した内向き折り曲げ部６４で構成されている。   The outer ring 61 of the bearing 6 is made of metal with a bottomed cylindrical shape (cylindrical cup shape), and a cylindrical portion 62 that fits into the bearing hole 41 and is fitted to the upper end of the cylindrical portion 62 when viewed in FIG. The bottom part 63 formed by closing and the inward bent part 64 formed at the lower end of the cylindrical part 62 and opened.

この筒状部６２の内周面（内側転動面）６２１と、軸部５１の外周面５１１との間には、２種類のボール７１、７２が介挿されている。ハッチングを付与して示すボール７１は、弾性部材製で、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿され、外周面５１１を環状に取り囲んで配置されている。ボール７１の材質としては、合成ゴムや合成樹脂が好ましい。また、金属製のボールの外周面に、弾性部材を被覆してもよい。   Two types of balls 71 and 72 are interposed between the inner peripheral surface (inner rolling surface) 621 of the cylindrical portion 62 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51. The ball 71 shown with hatching is made of an elastic member, and is inserted between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51 by interference fit fitting, and is arranged so as to surround the outer peripheral surface 511 in an annular shape. Has been. The material of the ball 71 is preferably synthetic rubber or synthetic resin. Moreover, you may coat | cover an elastic member on the outer peripheral surface of metal balls.

ハッチングの無いボール７２は、高剛性部材製で、直径が弾性部材製のボール７１よりも小径に形成され、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間にすきまばめ嵌合で介挿され、外周面５１１を環状に取り囲んで配置されている。ボール７２の材質としては、軸受鋼（ＳＵＪ２）、ステンレス鋼、耐熱鋼、セラミックス等が好ましい。   The non-hatched ball 72 is made of a highly rigid member, has a diameter smaller than that of the ball 71 made of an elastic member, and is a fit fit between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51. It is inserted and arranged so as to surround the outer peripheral surface 511 in an annular shape. The material of the ball 72 is preferably bearing steel (SUJ2), stainless steel, heat resistant steel, ceramics, or the like.

外輪６１の底部６３側から、弾性部材製のボール７１、高剛性部材製のボール７２、弾性部材製のボール７１、高剛性部材製のボール７２の順で交互に配置され、保持器７３によって、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２との間の間隔が一定に保持されている。また、軸部５１の先端面５１２が底部６３の底部内面６３１に当接して、大きなトルクを伝達可能にしている。   From the bottom 63 side of the outer ring 61, the elastic member balls 71, the highly rigid member balls 72, the elastic member balls 71, and the highly rigid member balls 72 are alternately arranged in this order. The distance between the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a high-rigidity member is kept constant. Further, the front end surface 512 of the shaft portion 51 is in contact with the bottom inner surface 631 of the bottom 63 so that a large torque can be transmitted.

伝達トルクが小さい時には、軸部５１は弾性部材製のボール７１を介して回転する。弾性部材製のボール７１は、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿されているため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生が防止される。また、ボール７１が、内周面６２１と外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿していても、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１の回転トルクを抑制することができ、ステアリングホイール１１を操作するのに要する力が抑制される。   When the transmission torque is small, the shaft portion 51 rotates via a ball 71 made of an elastic member. Since the ball 71 made of an elastic member is inserted with an interference fit between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the rattling sound of the shaft portion 51 is prevented from being generated. The Even if the ball 71 is interposed between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 with an interference fit, the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, so that the rotational torque of the shaft portion 51 is suppressed. The force required to operate the steering wheel 11 is suppressed.

伝達トルクが大きくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１が弾性変形し、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１が、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接し、軸部５１は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の両方を介して回転する。   When the transmission torque increases, the elastic member ball 71 elastically deforms, and the highly rigid member ball 72 and the elastic member ball 71 simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, The shaft 51 rotates through both the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member.

ボール７２は高剛性部材製であるため、大きな伝達トルクを伝えることができる。弾性部材製のボール７１は、伝達トルクが大きくなると、比較的容易に弾性変形する。従って、多少の製造誤差があっても、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１を、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接させることが容易になるため、製造コストの上昇を抑制することができる。   Since the ball 72 is made of a highly rigid member, a large transmission torque can be transmitted. The ball 71 made of an elastic member is relatively easily elastically deformed when the transmission torque is increased. Therefore, even if there is a slight manufacturing error, it is easy to simultaneously bring the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member and the ball 71 made of an elastic member into contact with the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51. Thus, an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

また、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１を外輪６１に圧入するのが容易で、圧入時の軸部５１の傷付きを防止することができる。さらに、伝達トルクが元に戻って小さくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１の弾性変形が元に戻り、弾性部材製のボール７１の締まりばめ嵌合が維持されるため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生はない。   Further, since the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, it is easy to press-fit the shaft portion 51 into the outer ring 61, and the shaft portion 51 can be prevented from being damaged during press-fitting. Further, when the transmission torque is reduced to the original value, the elastic deformation of the elastic member ball 71 is restored, and the interference fit of the elastic member ball 71 is maintained. There is no audible noise.

次に本発明の実施例２について説明する。図５は本発明の実施例２の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。以下の説明では、上記実施例と異なる構造部分と作用についてのみ説明し、重複する説明は省略する。   Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the shaft portion of the cross shaft according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, only structural portions and operations different from the above embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.

実施例２は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の配置を変更した例である。すなわち、図５に示すように、実施例２においても、外輪６１の筒状部６２の内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間には、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２が介挿されている。   The second embodiment is an example in which the arrangement of the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member is changed. That is, as shown in FIG. 5, also in the second embodiment, between the inner peripheral surface 621 of the cylindrical portion 62 of the outer ring 61 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the elastic member ball 71 and the high rigidity are provided. A member-made ball 72 is inserted.

実施例２では、外輪６１の底部６３側から、高剛性部材製のボール７２、弾性部材製のボール７１、弾性部材製のボール７１、高剛性部材製のボール７２の順で配置され、保持器７３によって、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２との間の間隔が一定に保持されている。また、軸部５１の先端面５１２が底部６３の底部内面６３１に当接して、大きなトルクを伝達可能にしている。   In the second embodiment, from the bottom 63 side of the outer ring 61, a ball 72 made of a high-rigidity member, a ball 71 made of an elastic member, a ball 71 made of an elastic member, and a ball 72 made of a high-rigidity member are arranged in this order. The distance between the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a high-rigidity member is held constant by 73. Further, the front end surface 512 of the shaft portion 51 is in contact with the bottom inner surface 631 of the bottom 63 so that a large torque can be transmitted.

実施例２においても、伝達トルクが小さい時には、軸部５１は弾性部材製のボール７１を介して回転する。弾性部材製のボール７１は、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿されているため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生が防止される。また、ボール７１が、内周面６２１と外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿していても、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１の回転トルクを抑制することができ、ステアリングホイール１１を操作するのに要する力が抑制される。   Also in the second embodiment, when the transmission torque is small, the shaft portion 51 rotates via the ball 71 made of an elastic member. Since the ball 71 made of an elastic member is inserted with an interference fit between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the rattling sound of the shaft portion 51 is prevented from being generated. The Even if the ball 71 is interposed between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 with an interference fit, the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, so that the rotational torque of the shaft portion 51 is suppressed. The force required to operate the steering wheel 11 is suppressed.

伝達トルクが大きくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１が弾性変形し、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１が、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接し、軸部５１は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の両方を介して回転する。   When the transmission torque increases, the elastic member ball 71 elastically deforms, and the highly rigid member ball 72 and the elastic member ball 71 simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, The shaft 51 rotates through both the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member.

ボール７２は高剛性部材製であるため、大きな伝達トルクを伝えることができる。弾性部材製のボール７１は、伝達トルクが大きくなると、比較的容易に弾性変形する。従って、多少の製造誤差があっても、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１を、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接させることが容易になるため、製造コストの上昇を抑制することができる。   Since the ball 72 is made of a highly rigid member, a large transmission torque can be transmitted. The ball 71 made of an elastic member is relatively easily elastically deformed when the transmission torque is increased. Therefore, even if there is a slight manufacturing error, it is easy to simultaneously bring the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member and the ball 71 made of an elastic member into contact with the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51. Thus, an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

また、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１を外輪６１に圧入するのが容易で、圧入時の軸部５１の傷付きを防止することができる。さらに、伝達トルクが元に戻って小さくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１の弾性変形が元に戻り、弾性部材製のボール７１の締まりばめ嵌合が維持されるため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生はない。   Further, since the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, it is easy to press-fit the shaft portion 51 into the outer ring 61, and the shaft portion 51 can be prevented from being damaged during press-fitting. Further, when the transmission torque is reduced to the original value, the elastic deformation of the elastic member ball 71 is restored, and the interference fit of the elastic member ball 71 is maintained. There is no audible noise.

次に本発明の実施例３について説明する。図６は本発明の実施例３の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。以下の説明では、上記実施例と異なる構造部分と作用についてのみ説明し、重複する説明は省略する。   Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the shaft portion of the cross shaft according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, only structural portions and operations different from the above embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.

実施例３は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の配置を変更した例である。すなわち、図６に示すように、実施例３においても、外輪６１の筒状部６２の内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間には、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２が介挿されている。   The third embodiment is an example in which the arrangement of the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member is changed. That is, as shown in FIG. 6, also in Example 3, between the inner peripheral surface 621 of the cylindrical portion 62 of the outer ring 61 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the elastic member balls 71 and the high rigidity are provided. A member-made ball 72 is inserted.

実施例３では、外輪６１の底部６３側から、弾性部材製のボール７１、高剛性部材製のボール７２、高剛性部材製のボール７２、弾性部材製のボール７１の順で配置され、保持器７３によって、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２との間の間隔が一定に保持されている。また、軸部５１の先端面５１２が底部６３の底部内面６３１に当接して、大きなトルクを伝達可能にしている。   In the third embodiment, from the bottom 63 side of the outer ring 61, the elastic member ball 71, the high rigidity member ball 72, the high rigidity member ball 72, and the elastic member ball 71 are arranged in this order. The distance between the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a high-rigidity member is held constant by 73. Further, the front end surface 512 of the shaft portion 51 is in contact with the bottom inner surface 631 of the bottom 63 so that a large torque can be transmitted.

実施例３においても、伝達トルクが小さい時には、軸部５１は弾性部材製のボール７１を介して回転する。弾性部材製のボール７１は、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿されているため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生が防止される。また、ボール７１が、内周面６２１と外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿していても、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１の回転トルクを抑制することができ、ステアリングホイール１１を操作するのに要する力が抑制される。   Also in the third embodiment, when the transmission torque is small, the shaft portion 51 rotates via the ball 71 made of an elastic member. Since the ball 71 made of an elastic member is inserted with an interference fit between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the rattling sound of the shaft portion 51 is prevented from being generated. The Even if the ball 71 is interposed between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 with an interference fit, the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, so that the rotational torque of the shaft portion 51 is suppressed. The force required to operate the steering wheel 11 is suppressed.

伝達トルクが大きくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１が弾性変形し、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１が、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接し、軸部５１は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の両方を介して回転する。   When the transmission torque increases, the elastic member ball 71 elastically deforms, and the highly rigid member ball 72 and the elastic member ball 71 simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, The shaft 51 rotates through both the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member.

ボール７２は高剛性部材製であるため、大きな伝達トルクを伝えることができる。弾性部材製のボール７１は、伝達トルクが大きくなると、比較的容易に弾性変形する。従って、多少の製造誤差があっても、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１を、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接させることが容易になるため、製造コストの上昇を抑制することができる。   Since the ball 72 is made of a highly rigid member, a large transmission torque can be transmitted. The ball 71 made of an elastic member is relatively easily elastically deformed when the transmission torque is increased. Therefore, even if there is a slight manufacturing error, it is easy to simultaneously bring the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member and the ball 71 made of an elastic member into contact with the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51. Thus, an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

また、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１を外輪６１に圧入するのが容易で、圧入時の軸部５１の傷付きを防止することができる。さらに、伝達トルクが元に戻って小さくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１の弾性変形が元に戻り、弾性部材製のボール７１の締まりばめ嵌合が維持されるため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生はない。   Further, since the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, it is easy to press-fit the shaft portion 51 into the outer ring 61, and the shaft portion 51 can be prevented from being damaged during press-fitting. Further, when the transmission torque is reduced to the original value, the elastic deformation of the elastic member ball 71 is restored, and the interference fit of the elastic member ball 71 is maintained. There is no audible noise.

次に本発明の実施例４について説明する。図７は本発明の実施例４の十字軸の軸部の拡大断面図である。以下の説明では、上記実施例と異なる構造部分と作用についてのみ説明し、重複する説明は省略する。   Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the shaft portion of the cross shaft according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, only structural portions and operations different from the above embodiment will be described, and redundant description will be omitted.

実施例４は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の配置を変更した例である。すなわち、図７に示すように、実施例４においても、外輪６１の筒状部６２の内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間には、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２が介挿されている。   The fourth embodiment is an example in which the arrangement of the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member is changed. That is, as shown in FIG. 7, also in Example 4, between the inner peripheral surface 621 of the cylindrical portion 62 of the outer ring 61 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the high rigidity are provided. A member-made ball 72 is inserted.

実施例４では、外輪６１の底部６３側から、高剛性部材製のボール７２、弾性部材製のボール７１、高剛性部材製のボール７２、弾性部材製のボール７１の順で配置され、保持器７３によって、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２との間の間隔が一定に保持されている。また、軸部５１の先端面５１２が底部６３の底部内面６３１に当接して、大きなトルクを伝達可能にしている。   In the fourth embodiment, from the bottom 63 side of the outer ring 61, a high-rigidity member ball 72, an elastic member-made ball 71, a high-rigidity member-made ball 72, and an elastic member-made ball 71 are arranged in this order. The distance between the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a high-rigidity member is held constant by 73. Further, the front end surface 512 of the shaft portion 51 is in contact with the bottom inner surface 631 of the bottom 63 so that a large torque can be transmitted.

実施例４においても、伝達トルクが小さい時には、軸部５１は弾性部材製のボール７１を介して回転する。弾性部材製のボール７１は、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿されているため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生が防止される。また、ボール７１が、内周面６２１と外周面５１１との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿していても、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１の回転トルクを抑制することができ、ステアリングホイール１１を操作するのに要する力が抑制される。   Also in the fourth embodiment, when the transmission torque is small, the shaft portion 51 rotates via the ball 71 made of an elastic member. Since the ball 71 made of an elastic member is inserted with an interference fit between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, the rattling sound of the shaft portion 51 is prevented from being generated. The Even if the ball 71 is interposed between the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 with an interference fit, the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, so that the rotational torque of the shaft portion 51 is suppressed. The force required to operate the steering wheel 11 is suppressed.

伝達トルクが大きくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１が弾性変形し、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１が、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接し、軸部５１は、弾性部材製のボール７１と高剛性部材製のボール７２の両方を介して回転する。   When the transmission torque increases, the elastic member ball 71 elastically deforms, and the highly rigid member ball 72 and the elastic member ball 71 simultaneously contact the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51, The shaft 51 rotates through both the ball 71 made of an elastic member and the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member.

ボール７２は高剛性部材製であるため、大きな伝達トルクを伝えることができる。弾性部材製のボール７１は、伝達トルクが大きくなると、比較的容易に弾性変形する。従って、多少の製造誤差があっても、高剛性部材製のボール７２と弾性部材製のボール７１を、内周面６２１と軸部５１の外周面５１１に同時に当接させることが容易になるため、製造コストの上昇を抑制することができる。   Since the ball 72 is made of a highly rigid member, a large transmission torque can be transmitted. The ball 71 made of an elastic member is relatively easily elastically deformed when the transmission torque is increased. Therefore, even if there is a slight manufacturing error, it is easy to simultaneously bring the ball 72 made of a highly rigid member and the ball 71 made of an elastic member into contact with the inner peripheral surface 621 and the outer peripheral surface 511 of the shaft portion 51. Thus, an increase in manufacturing cost can be suppressed.

また、ボール７１が弾性部材製であるため、軸部５１を外輪６１に圧入するのが容易で、圧入時の軸部５１の傷付きを防止することができる。さらに、伝達トルクが元に戻って小さくなると、弾性部材製のボール７１の弾性変形が元に戻り、弾性部材製のボール７１の締まりばめ嵌合が維持されるため、軸部５１のがたつき音の発生はない。   Further, since the ball 71 is made of an elastic member, it is easy to press-fit the shaft portion 51 into the outer ring 61, and the shaft portion 51 can be prevented from being damaged during press-fitting. Further, when the transmission torque is reduced to the original value, the elastic deformation of the elastic member ball 71 is restored, and the interference fit of the elastic member ball 71 is maintained. There is no audible noise.

上記実施例では、車両用ステアリング装置に使用される十字軸自在継手に本発明を適用した例について説明したが、動力伝達軸に使用される十字軸自在継手に適用してもよい。また、上記実施例では、アシスト装置２０を有する車両用ステアリング装置に使用される十字軸自在継手に本発明を適用した例について説明したが、アシスト装置２０の無い車両用ステアリング装置に適用してもよい。   In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a cross shaft universal joint used in a vehicle steering apparatus has been described. However, the present invention may be applied to a cross shaft universal joint used in a power transmission shaft. In the above embodiment, an example in which the present invention is applied to a cross joint that is used in a vehicle steering apparatus having the assist device 20 has been described. However, the present invention may be applied to a vehicle steering apparatus without the assist device 20. Good.

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 十字軸自在継手
１６ 中間シャフト
１６Ａ 雄中間シャフト
１６Ｂ 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 入力軸
３２ タイロッド
４ ヨーク
４１ 軸受孔
５ 十字軸
５１ 軸部
５１１ 外周面
５１２ 先端面
６ 軸受
６１ 外輪
６２ 筒状部
６２１ 内周面（内側転動面）
６３ 底部
６３１ 底部内面
６４ 内向き折り曲げ部
７１ ボール（弾性部材製のボール）
７２ ボール（高剛性部材製のボール）
７３ 保持器 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 Cross shaft universal joint 16 Intermediate shaft 16A Male intermediate shaft 16B Female intermediate shaft 18 Car body 20 Assist device 21 Gear housing DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 23 Output shaft 26 Electric motor 261 Case 30 Steering gear 31 Input shaft 32 Tie rod 4 Yoke 41 Bearing hole 5 Cross shaft 51 Shaft part 511 Outer surface 512 Front end surface 6 Bearing 61 Outer ring 62 Cylindrical part 621 Inner peripheral surface (inner rolling surface) )
63 bottom 631 bottom inner surface 64 inward bent portion 71 ball (ball made of elastic member)
72 balls (balls made of high-rigidity members)
73 Cage

Claims (1)

一対のヨーク、
上記一対のヨークに各々形成され、二股状に対向する一対のアーム部、
上記一対のアーム部に各々形成され、同一軸線上に配置された一対の軸受孔、および、
上記軸受孔に軸受を介して揺動自在に嵌合される軸部を有する十字軸
を備えた十字軸自在継手であって、
上記軸受は、
上記一対の軸受孔に各々内嵌する有底筒状の外輪、
上記外輪の内周面と上記十字軸の軸部外周面との間に締まりばめ嵌合で介挿され、軸部外周面を環状に取り囲む弾性部材製のボール、
上記外輪の内周面と十字軸の軸部外周面との間にすきまばめ嵌合で介挿され、軸部外周面を環状に取り囲む高剛性部材製のボール、
上記弾性部材製のボールと高剛性部材製のボールを回転可能に保持し、弾性部材製のボールと高剛性部材製のボールとの間の間隔を一定に保持する保持器
を備え、更に、
上記十字軸の先端面が上記外輪の底部内面に当接しているとともに、上記高剛性部材製のボールが軸方向の両端に配置され、上記弾性部材製のボールがその間に配置された軸受であること
を特徴とする十字軸自在継手。 A pair of yokes,
A pair of arm portions respectively formed on the pair of yokes and opposed to each other in a bifurcated manner;
A pair of bearing holes formed on the pair of arm portions, respectively, arranged on the same axis, and
A cross shaft having a shaft portion swingably fitted into the bearing hole via a bearing
A cross joint with a joint,
The bearing
A bottomed cylindrical outer ring that fits in each of the pair of bearing holes,
Inserted by interference fit fit between the inner surface and the shaft portion outer circumferential surface of the cross shaft of the outer ring, the elastic member made of the ball which surrounds the shaft portion outer circumferential surface in an annular,
A ball made of a high-rigidity member interposed between the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring and the outer peripheral surface of the cross shaft by a clearance fit and surrounding the outer peripheral surface of the shaft in an annular shape;
A retainer for rotatably holding the ball made of the elastic member and the ball made of the high rigidity member, and maintaining a constant distance between the ball made of the elastic member and the ball made of the high rigidity member ;
A bearing in which the tip surface of the cross shaft is in contact with the inner surface of the bottom of the outer ring, the balls made of the high-rigidity member are arranged at both ends in the axial direction, and the balls made of the elastic member are arranged therebetween. This is a cross joint with a universal joint.
JP2010293026A 2010-12-28 2010-12-28 Cross shaft universal joint Active JP5310712B2 (en)

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JP2010293026A JP5310712B2 (en) 2010-12-28 2010-12-28 Cross shaft universal joint

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JP5310712B2 true JP5310712B2 (en) 2013-10-09

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Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS543628Y2 (en) * 1972-05-15 1979-02-20
JPH0635671U (en) * 1992-10-13 1994-05-13 株式会社ユニシアジェックス Bearing device
JP2004218790A (en) * 2003-01-17 2004-08-05 Koyo Seiko Co Ltd Bearing device for steering column
JP2009197818A (en) * 2008-02-19 2009-09-03 Nsk Ltd Telescopic shaft and steering device equipped with telescopic shaft

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