JP2003127875A - Rack supporting device for rack-and-pinion steering device - Google Patents

Rack supporting device for rack-and-pinion steering device

Info

Publication number
JP2003127875A
JP2003127875A JP2001322484A JP2001322484A JP2003127875A JP 2003127875 A JP2003127875 A JP 2003127875A JP 2001322484 A JP2001322484 A JP 2001322484A JP 2001322484 A JP2001322484 A JP 2001322484A JP 2003127875 A JP2003127875 A JP 2003127875A
Authority
JP
Japan
Prior art keywords
rack
shaft
screw
fixing member
steering device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
JP2001322484A
Other languages
Japanese (ja)
Other versions
JP4019685B2 (en
Inventor
Takeshi Kamikawa
剛 上川
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Koyo Seiko Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Koyo Seiko Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Koyo Seiko Co Ltd filed Critical Koyo Seiko Co Ltd
Priority to JP2001322484A priority Critical patent/JP4019685B2/en
Publication of JP2003127875A publication Critical patent/JP2003127875A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of JP4019685B2 publication Critical patent/JP4019685B2/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62D—MOTOR VEHICLES; TRAILERS
    • B62D3/00—Steering gears
    • B62D3/02—Steering gears mechanical
    • B62D3/12—Steering gears mechanical of rack-and-pinion type
    • B62D3/123—Steering gears mechanical of rack-and-pinion type characterised by pressure yokes
    • 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
    • F16H—GEARING
    • F16H55/00—Elements with teeth or friction surfaces for conveying motion; Worms, pulleys or sheaves for gearing mechanisms
    • F16H55/02—Toothed members; Worms
    • F16H55/26—Racks
    • F16H55/28—Special devices for taking up backlash
    • F16H55/283—Special devices for taking up backlash using pressure yokes

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Transmission Devices (AREA)

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem that a different spring energizing a rack shaft is required for a different specification of a rack-and-pinion steering device, resulting in a plurality of springs. SOLUTION: In this rack support mechanism 1 for a steering device, a support member 7 supporting the rack shaft 3 can freely slide in a retention hole 30 of a housing 4 and is fixed at an inlet 31 of the retention hole 30 by a fixing member 8, and a compression spring 9 is put between the fixing member 8 and the support member 7. The spring 9 energizes the rack shaft 3 in a pinion shaft side 2 via the support member 7. A spring seat 12 receiving the spring 9, a detent mechanism 14 regulating the rotation of the spring seat 12, and a screw type drive mechanism 13 adjusting a set load of the spring 9 by making the spring seat 12 retreat are provided. The set load can be adjusted by adjusting the compression amount of the spring 9. Consequently, a spring 9 of the same specification can be commonly used between steering devices of different set loads, and the number of types of the springs 9 can be reduced.

Description

【発明の詳細な説明】Detailed Description of the Invention

【０００１】[0001]

【発明の属する技術分野】本発明は、ステアリング装置
に関する。特に、ラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング
装置（以下、単にステアリング装置ともいう。）のラッ
ク支持装置に関する。TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a steering device. In particular, the present invention relates to a rack support device of a rack and pinion type steering device (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a steering device).

【０００２】[0002]

【従来の技術および発明が解決しようとする課題】ラッ
クアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置は、ステアリング
ホイールと一体回動するピニオンと、このピニオンと噛
み合うラック軸とを有し、これらをハウジング内に収容
し、ラック支持装置によりラック軸を支持するようにし
ている。ラック支持装置では、ハウジング内のピニオン
に対してラック軸を挟んだ反対側に、このラック軸を支
持する支持部材が配置され、この支持部材の背後に圧縮
コイルばねが配置される、この圧縮コイルばねが支持部
材を介して、ラック軸をピニオンに向けて、所定のセッ
ト荷重で押圧するようになっている。A rack-and-pinion type steering device has a pinion that rotates integrally with a steering wheel and a rack shaft that meshes with the pinion, and these are housed in a housing. The rack support device supports the rack shaft. In the rack supporting device, a support member that supports the rack shaft is arranged on the opposite side of the pinion in the housing with the rack shaft interposed therebetween, and a compression coil spring is arranged behind the support member. A spring presses the rack shaft toward the pinion through a support member with a predetermined set load.

【０００３】ところで、このセット荷重は、ステアリン
グ装置の仕様に対応して異なり、これに応じて、圧縮コ
イルばねも異なるものが用いられている。しかしなが
ら、ステアリング装置の仕様が多くなると、これに対応
する圧縮コイルばねの種類も多くなり、部品を管理する
ための手間がかかり、そのためのコストも高くなる。そ
こで、本発明の目的は、上述の技術的課題を解決し、多
種のステアリング装置に対応してセット荷重が異なる場
合であっても、このための圧縮コイルばねの種類が少な
くて済むラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラ
ック支持装置を提供することである。By the way, the set load is different depending on the specifications of the steering device, and accordingly, the compression coil spring is also different. However, as the specifications of the steering device increase, the types of compression coil springs corresponding to the specifications also increase, and it takes time and labor to manage the parts, which increases the cost. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned technical problem, and even if the set loads are different in correspondence with various steering devices, the rack and pinion that requires a small number of types of compression coil springs for this purpose. A rack support device for a steering system is provided.

【０００４】[0004]

【課題を解決するための手段および発明の効果】請求項
１に記載の発明は、ハウジングの保持孔にこの保持孔の
軸線方向に沿って摺動自在に収容されてラック軸を支持
する支持部材と、保持孔の入口のねじ部にねじ込まれて
固定される固定部材と、この固定部材と支持部材との間
に介在し支持部材を介してラック軸をピニオン軸側に付
勢する圧縮コイルばねとを備えるラックアンドピニオン
式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置において、上記圧
縮コイルばねを受けるばね座と、このばね座の回動を規
制する手段と、ばね座を進退させて圧縮コイルばねのセ
ット荷重を調整するためのねじ式駆動機構とを備えるこ
とを特徴とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装
置のラック支持装置を提供する。According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a support member which is slidably accommodated in a holding hole of a housing along an axial direction of the holding hole to support a rack shaft. A fixing member screwed into a threaded portion at the inlet of the holding hole to be fixed, and a compression coil spring interposed between the fixing member and the supporting member and biasing the rack shaft toward the pinion shaft side through the supporting member. In a rack support device of a rack and pinion steering device including: a spring seat for receiving the compression coil spring, a means for restricting rotation of the spring seat, and a set load of the compression coil spring for advancing and retracting the spring seat. A rack support device for a rack-and-pinion steering device, comprising: a screw drive mechanism for adjustment.

【０００５】この発明によれば、ねじ式駆動機構により
セット荷重を調整できるので、セット荷重が異なる複数
のステアリング装置の間で圧縮コイルばねを同じ仕様の
もので共通化することができる。従って、多種のステア
リング装置の仕様に対応するための圧縮コイルばねの種
類を少なくすることができる。また、ばね座は回動を規
制されるので、ばね座の進退時の圧縮コイルばねの挙動
が安定する結果、セット荷重を精度良く調整することが
できる。According to the present invention, since the set load can be adjusted by the screw drive mechanism, the compression coil springs having the same specifications can be shared by a plurality of steering devices having different set loads. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of types of compression coil springs that correspond to the specifications of various steering devices. Further, since the rotation of the spring seat is restricted, the behavior of the compression coil spring when the spring seat moves forward and backward is stable, and as a result, the set load can be adjusted accurately.

【０００６】請求項２に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載
のラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支
持装置において、上記ねじ式駆動機構は、上記固定部材
および支持部材の挿通孔を貫通し、固定部材および支持
部材によって軸方向移動を規制されつつ空回り自在に支
持される外部操作可能なねじ軸と、上記ばね座に設けら
れて上記ねじ軸を挿通させるねじ孔とを含むことを特徴
とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラッ
ク支持装置を提供する。According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the rack supporting device of the rack and pinion type steering device according to the first aspect, the screw drive mechanism penetrates through the insertion holes of the fixing member and the supporting member, An externally operable screw shaft which is supported in a free-wheeling manner while being restricted in axial movement by a fixing member and a supporting member, and a screw hole which is provided in the spring seat and allows the screw shaft to be inserted therethrough. A rack support device for a rack and pinion type steering device is provided.

【０００７】この発明によれば、ねじ軸を、軸方向移動
を規制した状態で外部から回動操作できるので、ねじ軸
を安定して操作できる結果、セット荷重を容易に調整で
きる。しかも、ねじ軸とねじ孔というコンパクトで実用
的な構成で実現できる。請求項３に記載の発明は、請求
項２に記載のラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置
のラック支持装置において、上記ねじ軸の頭部は、固定
部材の対応する挿通孔から外部に露出してねじ操作部を
構成し、ねじ軸の先端部は止め輪によって支持部材の対
応する挿通孔から抜け止めされることを特徴とするラッ
クアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置
を提供する。According to the present invention, since the screw shaft can be externally rotated while the axial movement is restricted, the screw shaft can be stably operated, and as a result, the set load can be easily adjusted. Moreover, it can be realized with a compact and practical configuration of the screw shaft and the screw hole. According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the rack supporting device of the rack-and-pinion type steering device according to the second aspect, the head portion of the screw shaft is exposed to the outside from the corresponding insertion hole of the fixing member, and screw operation is performed. A rack support device for a rack-and-pinion type steering device, characterized in that a tip end of a screw shaft is retained by a retaining ring from a corresponding insertion hole of a support member.

【０００８】この発明によれば、ねじ軸の軸方向移動の
規制を簡素な構成で実現できる。しかも、ねじ軸が、固
定部材と支持部材とを連結しているので、これら各部を
一体的なユニットとして扱うこともでき、その結果、こ
れら各部をハウジングへ組み付ける手間を軽減できる。
請求項４に記載の発明は、請求項２または３に記載のラ
ックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装
置において、上記ばね座は上記ねじ孔を形成する筒状部
を有し、この筒状部は固定部材の上記挿通孔に回動不能
で且つ軸方向移動自在に挿通され、固定部材の上記挿通
孔の内周部が上記ばね座の回動を規制する手段を構成す
ることを特徴とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリン
グ装置のラック支持装置を提供する。According to the present invention, regulation of axial movement of the screw shaft can be realized with a simple structure. Moreover, since the screw shaft connects the fixing member and the supporting member, it is possible to handle each of these parts as an integral unit, and as a result, it is possible to reduce the labor for assembling these parts into the housing.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the rack supporting device of the rack and pinion steering device according to the second or third aspect, the spring seat has a tubular portion that forms the screw hole. Is non-rotatably and axially movably inserted into the insertion hole of the fixing member, and the inner peripheral portion of the insertion hole of the fixing member constitutes means for restricting rotation of the spring seat. A rack support device for a rack and pinion type steering device is provided.

【０００９】この発明によれば、固定部材の挿通孔内
に、ばね座の回動の規制を簡素な構成で、しかもコンパ
クトに実現できる。請求項５に記載の発明は、請求項２
乃至４の何れかに記載のラックアンドピニオン式ステア
リング装置のラック支持装置において、上記ねじ軸の外
周部と固定部材の対応する挿通孔の内周部との間を封止
するシール部材をさらに備えることを特徴とするラック
アンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置を
提供する。According to the present invention, the regulation of the rotation of the spring seat in the insertion hole of the fixing member can be realized compactly with a simple structure. The invention described in claim 5 is the invention according to claim 2.
The rack support device for a rack-and-pinion steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a seal member that seals between an outer peripheral portion of the screw shaft and an inner peripheral portion of a corresponding insertion hole of the fixing member. A rack support device for a rack and pinion type steering device is provided.

【００１０】この発明によれば、シール部材は、外部か
らの異物の進入を防止できる。しかも、シール部材は、
ねじ軸に摩擦力を付与し、ねじ軸を回り止めする機能を
果たすことができ、その結果、セット荷重を維持するの
に好ましい。請求項６に記載の発明は、請求項２乃至５
の何れかに記載のラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング
装置のラック支持装置において、上記ねじ軸の回動位置
を所定の保持力で保持する手段をさらに備えることを特
徴とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラ
ック支持装置を提供する。According to the present invention, the seal member can prevent foreign matter from entering from the outside. Moreover, the seal member is
It is possible to impart a frictional force to the screw shaft and to prevent the screw shaft from rotating, and as a result, it is preferable to maintain the set load. The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to claims 2 to 5.
The rack support device for a rack-and-pinion steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising means for holding the rotational position of the screw shaft with a predetermined holding force. A support device is provided.

【００１１】この発明によれば、ねじ軸の回り止めを実
現できて、セット荷重を維持するのにより一層好まし
い。According to the present invention, it is more preferable that the rotation of the screw shaft can be prevented and the set load can be maintained.

【００１２】[0012]

【発明の実施の形態】以下、本発明の一実施形態のステ
アリング装置を説明する。図１は、本発明の一実施形態
を示すステアリング装置の一部断面正面図である。本ス
テアリング装置Ａは、ラックアンドピニオン式のステア
リング装置である。ステアリング装置Ａは、操舵操作に
より回転するピニオン軸２と、このピニオン軸２の歯部
に噛み合うラック軸３と、このラック軸３を覆うハウジ
ング４とを有している。ピニオン軸２は、歯部と軸部と
を有し、軸部の両側で軸受６（一部のみ図示）を介して
ハウジング４により回転自在に支持されている。また、
図示していないが、ピニオン軸２の軸部の一端は、ステ
アリングホイールと一体回転可能に連結されている。ラ
ック軸３は、図示しない軸受部材により軸長方向（図１
の紙面に直交する方向）に沿って、移動自在に支持され
ている。ラック軸３の両端部は、タイロッドを介して操
向車輪に連結されている。これにより、ステアリングホ
イールの回転に伴い、ラック軸３がその軸長方向に移動
し、操向が行われる。BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION A steering device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below. FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional front view of a steering device showing an embodiment of the present invention. The steering device A is a rack and pinion type steering device. The steering device A includes a pinion shaft 2 that rotates by a steering operation, a rack shaft 3 that meshes with the teeth of the pinion shaft 2, and a housing 4 that covers the rack shaft 3. The pinion shaft 2 has a tooth portion and a shaft portion, and is rotatably supported by the housing 4 on both sides of the shaft portion via bearings 6 (only a part is shown). Also,
Although not shown, one end of the shaft portion of the pinion shaft 2 is connected to the steering wheel so as to rotate integrally therewith. The rack shaft 3 has a bearing member (not shown) in the axial direction (see FIG.
Is movably supported along a direction (perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. Both ends of the rack shaft 3 are connected to steering wheels via tie rods. As a result, as the steering wheel rotates, the rack shaft 3 moves in the axial direction, and steering is performed.

【００１３】ハウジング４は、アルミニウム等の金属硬
質部材により形成されている。ハウジング４は、ラック
軸３とピニオン軸２との噛み合い位置から、ラック軸３
の軸長方向と直交する方向に延びる保持孔３０を有して
いる。この保持孔３０は、断面円形に形成されていて、
ラック軸３を挟んでピニオン軸２のある側に対して反対
側に向けて延びている。なお、以下の説明では、ハウジ
ング４の保持孔３０の延びる方向を軸方向（矢印Ｓ参
照）ともいう。The housing 4 is formed of a hard metal member such as aluminum. The housing 4 moves from the meshing position of the rack shaft 3 and the pinion shaft 2 to the rack shaft 3
The holding hole 30 extends in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the. The holding hole 30 has a circular cross section,
The rack shaft 3 is sandwiched between the pinion shaft 2 and the rack shaft 3. In the following description, the direction in which the holding hole 30 of the housing 4 extends is also referred to as the axial direction (see arrow S).

【００１４】ステアリング装置Ａは、ラック軸３を支持
するためのラック支持装置１をハウジング４の保持孔３
０に有している。ラック支持装置１は、ラック軸３寄り
に配置される支持部材７と、ラック軸３と遠い側の入口
３１に固定される固定部材８と、この固定部材８と支持
部材７との間に介在する圧縮コイルばね９とを有してい
る。固定部材８は、外周に雄ねじを有し、この雄ねじ
が、保持孔３０の入口３１のねじ部３２の雌ねじにねじ
込まれている。固定部材８は、ロックナット１０により
固定されている。固定部材８の内側端面３５は、ラック
軸３に対して遠い側となる支持部材７の端面４０と、所
定の隙間を設けて対向する。これにより、支持部材７の
軸方向移動量を、ラック軸３から遠ざかる側について規
制できるので、ラック軸３の軸方向移動量が過大になる
ことを防止でき、ラック軸３のがたつきに起因する異音
の発生を防止することができる。The steering device A includes a rack support device 1 for supporting a rack shaft 3 and a holding hole 3 of a housing 4.
It has 0. The rack supporting device 1 includes a supporting member 7 arranged near the rack shaft 3, a fixing member 8 fixed to an inlet 31 on the side far from the rack shaft 3, and an interposing member between the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7. And a compression coil spring 9 that operates. The fixing member 8 has a male screw on the outer circumference, and this male screw is screwed into the female screw of the screw portion 32 of the inlet 31 of the holding hole 30. The fixing member 8 is fixed by a lock nut 10. The inner end surface 35 of the fixed member 8 faces the end surface 40 of the support member 7 on the side farther from the rack shaft 3 with a predetermined gap. As a result, the amount of axial movement of the support member 7 can be regulated on the side away from the rack shaft 3, so that it is possible to prevent the amount of axial movement of the rack shaft 3 from becoming excessive and to cause rattling of the rack shaft 3. It is possible to prevent the generation of abnormal noise.

【００１５】支持部材７は、アルミニウム等の金属硬質
部材により形成され、略円柱形状をなしている。支持部
材７の端面４０には、円孔からなるばね収容孔４１が形
成されており、このばね収容孔４１に圧縮コイルばね９
が収容されている。また、支持部材７は、端面４０と反
対側に、ラック軸３に対向しラック軸３の周面に沿うよ
うな断面円弧形状の支持用凹部４２が形成されている。
支持部材７は、保持孔３０内に、この保持孔３０の軸方
向に沿って摺動自在に収容されている。支持部材７は、
ラック軸３とピニオン軸２とが互いに噛み合うラック軸
３の噛み合い部に対して反対側となるラック軸３の部分
を支持する。このとき、圧縮コイルばね９は、圧縮状態
とされ、支持部材７を介してラック軸３をピニオン軸２
側に所定の大きさ（以下、セット荷重ともいう）の押圧
力で付勢する。The support member 7 is formed of a metal hard member such as aluminum and has a substantially columnar shape. The end face 40 of the support member 7 is formed with a spring accommodating hole 41 made of a circular hole, and the compression coil spring 9 is formed in the spring accommodating hole 41.
Is housed. Further, the support member 7 is provided with a supporting recess 42 having an arc-shaped cross section, which is opposed to the end surface 40 and faces the rack shaft 3 and extends along the peripheral surface of the rack shaft 3.
The support member 7 is accommodated in the holding hole 30 so as to be slidable along the axial direction of the holding hole 30. The support member 7 is
The rack shaft 3 and the pinion shaft 2 support a portion of the rack shaft 3 which is opposite to the meshing portion of the rack shaft 3 where the rack shaft 3 and the pinion shaft 2 mesh with each other. At this time, the compression coil spring 9 is in a compressed state, and the rack shaft 3 is connected to the pinion shaft 2 via the support member 7.
It is urged to the side with a pressing force of a predetermined amount (hereinafter, also referred to as set load).

【００１６】特に本ステアリング装置Ａのラック支持装
置１は、セット荷重を調節するための荷重調節機構１１
を有している。図１および図２を参照する。荷重調節機
構１１は、圧縮コイルばね９を受けるばね座１２と、こ
のばね座１２を進退させて圧縮コイルばね９のセット荷
重を調整するためのねじ式駆動機構１３とを備える。圧
縮コイルばね９の一端は、支持部材７のばね収容孔４１
の底面により受けられている。また、圧縮コイルばね９
の他端は、ばね座１２の当接部４５、ねじ式駆動機構１
３を介して固定部材８により受け止められている。In particular, the rack supporting device 1 of the present steering device A has a load adjusting mechanism 11 for adjusting the set load.
have. Please refer to FIG. 1 and FIG. The load adjusting mechanism 11 includes a spring seat 12 that receives the compression coil spring 9, and a screw type drive mechanism 13 that moves the spring seat 12 forward and backward to adjust the set load of the compression coil spring 9. One end of the compression coil spring 9 has a spring accommodating hole 41 of the support member 7.
Received by the bottom of the. Also, the compression coil spring 9
The other end of the abutment portion 45 of the spring seat 12 and the screw type drive mechanism 1
It is received by the fixing member 8 via 3.

【００１７】荷重調節機構１１では、ねじ式駆動機構１
３により後述するようにしてセット荷重を調整できる。
その結果、セット荷重が異なる複数のステアリング装置
の間で圧縮コイルばね９を同じ仕様のもので共通化する
ことができる。従って、多種のステアリング装置の仕様
に対応してセット荷重を異ならせて設定する場合であっ
ても、このための圧縮コイルばね９の種類を少なくする
ことができる。特に、荷重調節機構１１は、ばね座１２
の回動を規制する手段としての回り止め構造１４を有し
ている。この回り止め構造１４は、保持孔３０の軸線回
りの回転方向に互いに対向して当接する一対の部材、例
えば、固定部材８の挿通孔３６の内周部３７と、ばね座
１２の筒状部４６の外周部４７とを有している（図３参
照）。これにより、ばね座１２は、固定部材８に対して
の保持孔３０の軸線回りの回動を規制されていて、ひい
ては、セット荷重調整時に保持孔３０、圧縮コイルばね
９に対しての回動をも規制される。その結果、ばね座１
２の進退時の、ばね座１２や圧縮コイルばね９の挙動が
安定する結果、セット荷重を精度良く調整することがで
きる。従って、ステアリング装置の仕様どおりの予め定
められた大きさのセット荷重を精度良く実現できる。In the load adjusting mechanism 11, the screw type driving mechanism 1
3, the set load can be adjusted as described later.
As a result, the compression coil springs 9 having the same specifications can be shared by a plurality of steering devices having different set loads. Therefore, even when the set load is set differently according to the specifications of various steering devices, it is possible to reduce the number of types of the compression coil spring 9 for this purpose. In particular, the load adjusting mechanism 11 includes the spring seat 12
It has a detent structure 14 as a means for restricting the rotation of the. The anti-rotation structure 14 includes a pair of members facing each other in the rotation direction around the axis of the holding hole 30 and abutting against each other, for example, the inner peripheral portion 37 of the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 and the tubular portion of the spring seat 12. And an outer peripheral portion 47 of 46 (see FIG. 3). As a result, the spring seat 12 is restricted from rotating around the axis of the holding hole 30 with respect to the fixed member 8, and thus rotates relative to the holding hole 30 and the compression coil spring 9 when adjusting the set load. Is also regulated. As a result, the spring seat 1
As a result of the behaviors of the spring seat 12 and the compression coil spring 9 being stabilized when the vehicle 2 moves forward and backward, the set load can be adjusted accurately. Therefore, it is possible to accurately realize a set load of a predetermined size according to the specifications of the steering device.

【００１８】ねじ式駆動機構１３は、固定部材８の挿通
孔３６および支持部材７の挿通孔４３を貫通する外部操
作可能なねじ軸１５と、ばね座１２に設けられてねじ軸
１５を挿通させるねじ孔４８とを含む。ねじ軸１５の中
間部に設けられた雄ねじ５０が、ねじ孔４８の雌ねじに
ねじ込まれている。ねじ軸１５は、固定部材８および支
持部材７によって軸方向移動を規制されつつ空回り自在
に支持され、固定部材８および支持部材７に対して相対
回動自在とされている。The screw type drive mechanism 13 is provided with the externally operable screw shaft 15 penetrating the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 and the insertion hole 43 of the support member 7, and is provided in the spring seat 12 to insert the screw shaft 15 therethrough. And a screw hole 48. A male screw 50 provided at an intermediate portion of the screw shaft 15 is screwed into a female screw of the screw hole 48. The screw shaft 15 is supported rotatably while being restricted in axial movement by the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7, and is rotatable relative to the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7.

【００１９】これにより、ねじ軸１５を、軸方向移動を
規制した状態で外部から回動操作できるので、ねじ軸１
５を安定して操作できる結果、セット荷重を容易に調整
できる。しかも、ねじ式駆動機構１３を、ねじ軸１５と
ねじ孔４８というコンパクトで実用的な構成で実現でき
る。ねじ軸１５は、一端に設けられた大径の頭部５１
と、この頭部５１から軸方向に延びる小径の軸部５２と
を有している。軸部５２の中間部に大径部を有し、この
大径部に上述の雄ねじ５０が形成されている。ねじ軸１
５の軸部５２は、圧縮コイルばね９の内部を挿通してい
る。As a result, the screw shaft 15 can be rotated from the outside while the axial movement thereof is restricted.
As a result of being able to stably operate 5, the set load can be easily adjusted. Moreover, the screw-type drive mechanism 13 can be realized with a compact and practical configuration of the screw shaft 15 and the screw hole 48. The screw shaft 15 is a large-diameter head 51 provided at one end.
And a small-diameter shaft portion 52 extending from the head portion 51 in the axial direction. The shaft portion 52 has a large diameter portion in the middle portion, and the above-described male screw 50 is formed on the large diameter portion. Screw shaft 1
The shaft portion 52 of 5 is inserted through the inside of the compression coil spring 9.

【００２０】ねじ軸１５の頭部５１は、固定部材８の対
応する挿通孔３６から外部に露出してねじ操作部１６を
構成し、工具を用いてねじ軸を回動させるためのすり割
りを有している。また、ねじ軸１５の頭部５１は、固定
部材８の挿通孔３６の内径よりも大径とされて、軸方向
の一方の向きへのねじ軸１５の移動を規制する。ねじ軸
１５の軸部５２の先端部５３は、止め輪１７によって支
持部材７の対応する挿通孔４３から抜け止めされ、軸方
向の他方の向きへのねじ軸１５の移動を規制する。先端
部５３の外周には、周溝が形成されていて、周溝内に止
め輪１７が嵌め込まれている。止め輪１７としては、例
えば、略Ｃ字形形状に形成されたもの等、公知のものを
利用できる。The head portion 51 of the screw shaft 15 is exposed to the outside from the corresponding insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 to form the screw operating portion 16, and a slot for rotating the screw shaft by using a tool. Have Further, the head portion 51 of the screw shaft 15 has a larger diameter than the inner diameter of the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8, and restricts the movement of the screw shaft 15 in one axial direction. The tip portion 53 of the shaft portion 52 of the screw shaft 15 is retained by the retaining ring 17 from the corresponding insertion hole 43 of the support member 7, and restricts the movement of the screw shaft 15 in the other axial direction. A peripheral groove is formed on the outer periphery of the tip portion 53, and the retaining ring 17 is fitted in the peripheral groove. As the retaining ring 17, for example, a known one such as one formed in a substantially C shape can be used.

【００２１】このように、ねじ操作部１６と、軸方向に
ついてのねじ軸１５の移動を規制するための構成とを簡
素な構成で実現できる。また、ねじ軸１５の両端を固定
部材８と支持部材７とにより軸方向および径方向に規制
するので、セット荷重調整時にねじ軸１５や圧縮コイル
ばね９をより一層安定させることができる。しかも、ね
じ軸１５が、固定部材８と支持部材７とを連結している
ので、これら各部７，８，１５およびこれら各部７，
８，１５に組み付けられる部品を一体的なユニット１８
として扱うこともできる。その結果、ユニット１８の各
部品をそれぞれ別個にハウジング４に組み付ける場合に
比べて、ユニット１８の各部品をハウジング４へ組み付
ける手間を軽減できる。As described above, the screw operating portion 16 and the structure for restricting the movement of the screw shaft 15 in the axial direction can be realized with a simple structure. Further, since both ends of the screw shaft 15 are regulated in the axial direction and the radial direction by the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7, the screw shaft 15 and the compression coil spring 9 can be further stabilized when adjusting the set load. Moreover, since the screw shaft 15 connects the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7, these respective portions 7, 8, 15 and these respective portions 7,
The unit 18 which is an integral part of the parts to be assembled to the 8 and 15
Can also be treated as As a result, it is possible to reduce the labor for assembling the respective parts of the unit 18 into the housing 4 as compared with the case where the respective parts of the unit 18 are separately assembled into the housing 4.

【００２２】ばね座１２は、保持孔３０の入口３１寄り
となる圧縮コイルばね９の端部と当接する円板状の当接
部４５と、当接部４５の中央部に立設される筒状部４６
とを有する。筒状部４６は、ねじ孔４８を形成する。筒
状部４６は固定部材８の挿通孔３６に回動不能で且つ軸
方向移動自在に挿通される。筒状部４６の外周部４７
は、多角柱、例えば、六角柱形状に形成され、これに対
応して、固定部材８の挿通孔３６の内周部３７が、多角
柱、例えば、六角柱形状に形成され、ばね座１２の回動
を規制する上述の回り止め構造１４を構成する。なお、
回り止め構造１４を構成する筒状部４６の外周部４７
と、挿通孔３６の内周部３７との形状としては、例え
ば、軸方向を切る断面形状が長円形、略Ｄ字形形状でも
良く、保持孔３０軸線回りの回転方向に対向して当接す
る部分があればよい。The spring seat 12 is a disk-shaped contact portion 45 that contacts the end of the compression coil spring 9 that is closer to the inlet 31 of the holding hole 30, and a cylinder that is erected at the center of the contact portion 45. Portion 46
Have and. The tubular portion 46 forms a screw hole 48. The tubular portion 46 is inserted into the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 so as not to be rotatable and axially movable. Outer peripheral portion 47 of tubular portion 46
Is formed in a polygonal column shape, for example, a hexagonal column shape, and correspondingly, the inner peripheral portion 37 of the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 is formed in a polygonal column shape, for example, a hexagonal column shape. The above-mentioned detent structure 14 that restricts rotation is configured. In addition,
Outer peripheral portion 47 of the cylindrical portion 46 that constitutes the rotation stopping structure 14
The shape of the inner peripheral portion 37 of the insertion hole 36 may be, for example, an elliptical or substantially D-shaped cross-section that cuts in the axial direction. If there is

【００２３】これにより、固定部材８の挿通孔３６内
に、ばね座１２の回動の規制を簡素な構成で実現でき、
しかもコンパクトに実現できる。筒状部４６は、軸方向
に移動自在にしつつ回り止め構造１４の一部を構成する
外周部４７と、ねじ孔４８とを、固定部材８の挿通孔３
６内にともに配置でき、ねじ孔４８の強度を確保するた
めの筒状部４６の軸方向長さを確保しつつ、筒状部４６
の軸方向の大型化を防止できる。As a result, the rotation of the spring seat 12 can be restricted in the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 with a simple structure.
Moreover, it can be realized compactly. The cylindrical portion 46 has an outer peripheral portion 47 that constitutes a part of the rotation stopping structure 14 and a screw hole 48 while being movable in the axial direction, and the insertion hole 3 of the fixing member 8.
6 can be arranged together and the axial length of the tubular portion 46 for securing the strength of the screw hole 48 can be secured, while the tubular portion 46 can be secured.
Can be prevented from increasing in size in the axial direction.

【００２４】また、固定部材８の対応する挿通孔３６の
内には、ねじ軸１５の外周部５４と固定部材８の対応す
る挿通孔３６の内周部３７との間を封止するシール部材
１９が設けられている。シール部材１９は、矩形断面の
環状部材である。ねじ軸１５の外周部５４のなかで、ね
じ軸１５の軸部５２の雄ねじ５０よりも頭部５１寄りと
なる部分に配置されている。このように、シール部材１
９は、外部からの塵埃等の異物が雄ねじ５０に侵入する
ことを防止できる。しかも、シール部材１９はねじ軸１
５に摩擦力を付与できるので、ねじ軸１５を回り止めす
る機能を果たすことができ、その結果、セット荷重を維
持するのに好ましい。Further, in the corresponding insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8, a sealing member for sealing between the outer peripheral portion 54 of the screw shaft 15 and the inner peripheral portion 37 of the corresponding insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8 is provided. 19 are provided. The seal member 19 is an annular member having a rectangular cross section. It is arranged in a portion of the outer peripheral portion 54 of the screw shaft 15 that is closer to the head 51 than the male screw 50 of the shaft portion 52 of the screw shaft 15. In this way, the seal member 1
9 can prevent foreign matter such as dust from entering the male screw 50. Moreover, the seal member 19 is the screw shaft 1.
Since a frictional force can be applied to 5, the screw shaft 15 can be prevented from rotating, and as a result, it is preferable to maintain the set load.

【００２５】また、シール部材１９は、ねじ軸１５の軸
部５２の大径部と、固定部材８の挿通孔３６の段部３８
との間に介在し、圧縮コイルばね９の弾性復元力をねじ
軸１５から固定部材８に軸方向に伝えるようにしてい
る。また、ねじ軸１５の回動位置を所定の保持力で保持
する手段としてのクリック機構２０を設けることも考え
られる。このクリック機構２０は、図４に示すように、
ばね２４により付勢されたボール２５を一方の部材の孔
２６内に収容しておき、他方の部材の凹部２７にボール
２５を嵌め入れるようにして保持してもよい。ボール２
５が凹部２７の周縁部を乗り越えるのに要する力が保持
力となる。また、図５に示すように、互いに噛み合う凹
部２８と凸部２９とを互いに対向する部分同士に設けて
も良い。凹部２８と凸部２９とが互いに乗り越えるのに
要する力が保持力となる。これにより、クリック感を付
与できる。クリック機構２０はねじ軸１５と、これが相
対回動する部材、例えば、固定部材８との間に設けら
れ、上述の一方の部材および他方の部材は、固定部材８
およびねじ軸１５を例示できる。The seal member 19 has a large diameter portion of the shaft portion 52 of the screw shaft 15 and a step portion 38 of the insertion hole 36 of the fixing member 8.
And the elastic restoring force of the compression coil spring 9 is transmitted from the screw shaft 15 to the fixing member 8 in the axial direction. It is also conceivable to provide a click mechanism 20 as a means for holding the turning position of the screw shaft 15 with a predetermined holding force. This click mechanism 20 is, as shown in FIG.
The ball 25 biased by the spring 24 may be housed in the hole 26 of one member, and the ball 25 may be retained by being fitted into the recess 27 of the other member. Ball 2
The force required for 5 to get over the peripheral edge of the recess 27 is the holding force. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the recesses 28 and the protrusions 29 that mesh with each other may be provided in the portions facing each other. The holding force is the force required for the concave portion 28 and the convex portion 29 to get over each other. Thereby, a click feeling can be given. The click mechanism 20 is provided between the screw shaft 15 and a member that rotates relative to the screw shaft 15, for example, the fixing member 8. The one member and the other member described above are the fixing member 8 and the fixing member 8.
The screw shaft 15 can be exemplified.

【００２６】このようなクリック機構２０により、ねじ
軸１５の回り止めを実現できて、セット荷重を維持する
のにより一層好ましい。また、圧縮コイルばね９であれ
ば、撓み量を、ゴム板や皿ばねに比べて大きくでき、単
一の圧縮コイルばね９によるセット荷重の調節範囲を広
くすることができる。しかも、圧縮コイルばね９では、
撓み量と弾性復元力との関係が直線状に変化する関係
（図７参照）となり、所望のセット荷重を得るのに好ま
しい。With such a click mechanism 20, it is more preferable to prevent the screw shaft 15 from rotating and to maintain the set load. Further, in the case of the compression coil spring 9, the amount of bending can be made larger than that of the rubber plate or the disc spring, and the range of adjustment of the set load by the single compression coil spring 9 can be widened. Moreover, in the compression coil spring 9,
The relationship between the bending amount and the elastic restoring force changes linearly (see FIG. 7), which is preferable for obtaining a desired set load.

【００２７】また、ねじ式駆動機構１３は、ねじ操作部
１６にかかる操作力を強めてばね座１２を軸方向に進退
させる力として伝えることができるので、圧縮コイルば
ね９の弾性復元力に抗しながらのばね座１２の軸方向の
移動量の調節を容易にできて、好ましい。ユニット１８
は、支持部材７、固定部材８、圧縮コイルばね９、支持
部材７と固定部材８との連結部材としてのねじ軸１５
と、ばね座１２、止め輪１７、シール部材１９、クリッ
ク機構２０、ロックナット１０を有している。ユニット
としては、少なくとも支持部材７、固定部材８、圧縮コ
イルばね９、ねじ軸１５と、ばね座１２とを含めば良
い。このようなユニットにより、ハウジング４への部品
の組み付けの手間を軽減でき、仮にセット荷重を調節す
るための手間がかかるとしても、組み立てラインでのタ
クトを低下させずにすむ。Further, the screw type drive mechanism 13 can increase the operating force applied to the screw operating portion 16 and transmit it as a force for moving the spring seat 12 back and forth in the axial direction, so that the elastic restoring force of the compression coil spring 9 is resisted. However, the amount of movement of the spring seat 12 in the axial direction can be easily adjusted, which is preferable. Unit 18
Is a supporting member 7, a fixing member 8, a compression coil spring 9, and a screw shaft 15 as a connecting member between the supporting member 7 and the fixing member 8.
And a spring seat 12, a retaining ring 17, a seal member 19, a click mechanism 20, and a lock nut 10. The unit may include at least the support member 7, the fixing member 8, the compression coil spring 9, the screw shaft 15, and the spring seat 12. With such a unit, the labor for assembling the components into the housing 4 can be reduced, and even if the labor for adjusting the set load is required, the takt time on the assembly line is not reduced.

【００２８】また、ユニット化することにより、組立時
の部品、例えば、支持部材７、圧縮コイルばね９等の組
み付け忘れを防止することができる。すなわち、従来の
構造では、支持部材、圧縮コイルばねをハウジングに組
み付けた後、固定部材を保持孔にねじ込むようになって
いるので、固定部材の組み付け後には、支持部材等があ
ることを、外から見て確認することができず、上述の部
品の組付け忘れを防止することができなかった。これに
対して、本実施の形態では、ハウジング４への組み付け
前のユニット１８の単体の状態で、ユニット１８の各部
品がユニット１８に組み付けられていることを確認する
ことができる。すなわち、支持部材７、ねじ軸１５等は
容易に視認できるし、また、圧縮コイルばね９、ばね座
１２等は、ユニットの組立後に視認が困難になるが、ね
じ軸１５を回すことにより、あるかないかを容易に確認
することができる。確認後、ユニット１８をハウジング
４に組み付ければよい。ハウジング４でのユニット１８
の有無の確認は、視認により容易に行うことができる。Further, by making it into a unit, it is possible to prevent forgetting to assemble components such as the support member 7 and the compression coil spring 9 at the time of assembly. That is, in the conventional structure, after the support member and the compression coil spring are assembled to the housing, the fixing member is screwed into the holding hole. It was not possible to confirm it from the above, and it was not possible to prevent forgetting to assemble the above-mentioned parts. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, it is possible to confirm that each component of the unit 18 is assembled to the unit 18 in a state where the unit 18 is a single unit before being assembled to the housing 4. That is, the support member 7, the screw shaft 15 and the like can be easily visually recognized, and the compression coil spring 9, the spring seat 12 and the like are difficult to visually recognize after the unit is assembled. It can be easily confirmed whether or not it is. After confirmation, the unit 18 may be assembled to the housing 4. Unit 18 in housing 4
The presence / absence can be easily confirmed by visual check.

【００２９】セット荷重は以下のように調整される。先
ず、セット荷重の調整の前に、固定部材８と支持部材７
とは、所定の軸方向位置に位置合わせされる。すなわ
ち、支持部材７はラック軸３と沿い、固定部材８と支持
部材７との間に、所定の隙間が開けられる。なお、所定
の軸方向位置としては、固定部材８と支持部材７とが互
いに当接する位置としてもよく、この場合、セット荷重
の調整後に、固定部材８と支持部材７との間に所定の隙
間が開けられ、この隙間を見込んでセット荷重を調整す
ることになる。The set load is adjusted as follows. First, before adjusting the set load, the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7
And are aligned in a predetermined axial position. That is, the support member 7 is provided along the rack shaft 3, and a predetermined gap is provided between the fixed member 8 and the support member 7. The predetermined axial position may be a position where the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7 are in contact with each other, and in this case, after adjusting the set load, a predetermined gap is provided between the fixing member 8 and the supporting member 7. Will be opened and the set load will be adjusted in anticipation of this gap.

【００３０】セット荷重の調整操作では、ねじ操作部１
６を工具により回動させると、ねじ軸１５が回動され、
ばね座１２が軸方向に進退し、圧縮コイルばね９の撓み
量（圧縮変形量）が変化する。撓み量に対応する弾性復
元力としてセット荷重を得ることができる。撓み量を調
節することにより、セット荷重を調整することができ
る。例えば、図７のグラフにおいて、撓み量は2.5mm か
ら3.5mm の範囲内で調節され、これに対応して、セット
荷重はほぼ３００Ｎからほぼ６００Ｎの範囲で調整され
る。このように、セット荷重を広い範囲で調節して得る
ことができる。When adjusting the set load, the screw operating section 1 is used.
When 6 is rotated by a tool, the screw shaft 15 is rotated,
The spring seat 12 moves back and forth in the axial direction, and the amount of bending (compressive deformation amount) of the compression coil spring 9 changes. A set load can be obtained as an elastic restoring force corresponding to the amount of bending. The set load can be adjusted by adjusting the bending amount. For example, in the graph of FIG. 7, the amount of deflection is adjusted within the range of 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm, and correspondingly, the set load is adjusted within the range of about 300N to about 600N. In this way, the set load can be obtained by adjusting it in a wide range.

【００３１】また、本ステアリング装置Ａでは、既存の
圧縮コイルばね９を利用して、これの撓み量を調節する
ことにより、所望のセット荷重を実現できる。従って、
ステアリング装置の仕様変更に速やかに対応することが
できる。なお、ばね座１２は、ラック軸３寄りとなる圧
縮コイルばね９の一方の端部と当接するように設けて、
圧縮コイルばね９の他方の端部を固定部材８に直接当接
させてもよい。Further, in the present steering apparatus A, a desired set load can be realized by utilizing the existing compression coil spring 9 and adjusting the amount of bending of the compression coil spring 9. Therefore,
It is possible to promptly respond to changes in the specifications of the steering device. The spring seat 12 is provided so as to contact one end of the compression coil spring 9 that is closer to the rack shaft 3,
The other end of the compression coil spring 9 may be brought into direct contact with the fixing member 8.

【００３２】また、単一の圧縮コイルばね９を設けてい
たが、複数個のものを組み合わせて用いてもよい。この
場合、複数の圧縮コイルばねの全てを調節自在に設けて
も良いし、複数の圧縮コイルばねの一部だけを調節自在
に設けても良い。その他、本発明の特許請求の範囲で種
々の変更を施すことが可能である。Although a single compression coil spring 9 is provided, a plurality of compression coil springs 9 may be used in combination. In this case, all of the plurality of compression coil springs may be adjustably provided, or only a part of the plurality of compression coil springs may be adjustably provided. Besides, various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

【図面の簡単な説明】[Brief description of drawings]

【図１】本発明の一実施形態を示すラックアンドピニオ
ン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置の一部断面図。FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a rack support device of a rack-and-pinion type steering device showing an embodiment of the present invention.

【図２】図１の荷重調節機構の主要部の分解斜視図。FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a main part of the load adjusting mechanism of FIG.

【図３】回り止め構造の断面図。FIG. 3 is a sectional view of a detent structure.

【図４】クリック機構の模式図。FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a click mechanism.

【図５】他のクリック機構の模式図。FIG. 5 is a schematic view of another click mechanism.

【図６】荷重調節機構の動作を示す模式図。FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing the operation of the load adjusting mechanism.

【図７】図１の圧縮コイルばねの撓み量とセット荷重と
の関係を示すグラフ。7 is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of flexure of the compression coil spring of FIG. 1 and the set load.

【符号の説明】[Explanation of symbols]

１ ラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック
支持装置 ２ ピニオン軸 ３ ラック軸 ４ ハウジング ７ 支持部材 ８ 固定部材 ９ 圧縮コイルばね １２ ばね座 １３ ねじ式駆動機構 １４ 回り止め構造（ばね座の回動を規制する手段） １５ ねじ軸 １６ ねじ操作部 １７ 止め輪 １９ シール部材 ２０ クリック機構（ねじ軸の回動位置を所定の保持力
で保持する手段） ３０ 保持孔 ３１ 保持孔の入口 ３２ 保持孔の入口のねじ部 ３６ 固定部材の挿通孔 ３７ 固定部材の挿通孔の内周部 ４３ 支持部材の挿通孔 ４６ ばね座の筒状部 ４８ ばね座のねじ孔 ５１ ねじ軸の頭部 ５３ ねじ軸の先端部 ５４ ねじ軸の外周部 Ｓ 保持孔の軸方向1 Rack Support Device of Rack and Pinion Steering Device 2 Pinion Shaft 3 Rack Shaft 4 Housing 7 Support Member 8 Fixing Member 9 Compression Coil Spring 12 Spring Seat 13 Screw Type Drive Mechanism 14 Detent Structure (Regulating Rotation of Spring Seat) 15) Screw shaft 16 Screw operating portion 17 Retaining ring 19 Seal member 20 Click mechanism (means for holding the rotational position of the screw shaft with a predetermined holding force) 30 Holding hole 31 Holding hole inlet 32 Screw of holding hole inlet Part 36 Fixing member insertion hole 37 Inner peripheral part of fixing member insertion hole 43 Support member insertion hole 46 Spring seat cylindrical portion 48 Spring seat screw hole 51 Screw shaft head 53 Screw shaft tip 54 Screw Outer periphery of shaft S Axial direction of holding hole

Claims (6)

【特許請求の範囲】[Claims] 【請求項１】ハウジングの保持孔にこの保持孔の軸線方
向に沿って摺動自在に収容されてラック軸を支持する支
持部材と、保持孔の入口のねじ部にねじ込まれて固定さ
れる固定部材と、この固定部材と支持部材との間に介在
し支持部材を介してラック軸をピニオン軸側に付勢する
圧縮コイルばねとを備えるラックアンドピニオン式ステ
アリング装置のラック支持装置において、 上記圧縮コイルばねを受けるばね座と、 このばね座の回動を規制する手段と、 ばね座を進退させて圧縮コイルばねのセット荷重を調整
するためのねじ式駆動機構とを備えることを特徴とする
ラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持
装置。1. A support member which is slidably accommodated in a holding hole of a housing along an axial direction of the holding hole to support a rack shaft, and a fixing member which is screwed and fixed to a screw portion at an inlet of the holding hole. A rack support device for a rack-and-pinion steering device, comprising: a member; and a compression coil spring that is interposed between the fixing member and the support member and biases the rack shaft toward the pinion shaft side through the support member. A rack comprising a spring seat for receiving a coil spring, means for restricting rotation of the spring seat, and a screw drive mechanism for advancing and retracting the spring seat to adjust a set load of the compression coil spring. Rack support device for and pinion type steering device. 【請求項２】請求項１に記載のラックアンドピニオン式
ステアリング装置のラック支持装置において、 上記ねじ式駆動機構は、 上記固定部材および支持部材の挿通孔を貫通し、固定部
材および支持部材によって軸方向移動を規制されつつ空
回り自在に支持される外部操作可能なねじ軸と、上記ば
ね座に設けられて上記ねじ軸を挿通させるねじ孔とを含
むことを特徴とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリン
グ装置のラック支持装置。2. The rack support device for a rack and pinion steering device according to claim 1, wherein the screw drive mechanism penetrates through the insertion holes of the fixing member and the supporting member, and the shaft is formed by the fixing member and the supporting member. A rack-and-pinion type steering device characterized by including an externally operable screw shaft that is supported to rotate freely while restricting directional movement, and a screw hole that is provided in the spring seat and through which the screw shaft is inserted. Rack support device. 【請求項３】請求項２に記載のラックアンドピニオン式
ステアリング装置のラック支持装置において、 上記ねじ軸の頭部は、固定部材の対応する挿通孔から外
部に露出してねじ操作部を構成し、ねじ軸の先端部は止
め輪によって支持部材の対応する挿通孔から抜け止めさ
れることを特徴とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリ
ング装置のラック支持装置。3. The rack supporting device for a rack and pinion steering device according to claim 2, wherein the head portion of the screw shaft is exposed to the outside from a corresponding insertion hole of the fixing member to form a screw operating portion. A rack support device for a rack and pinion type steering device, wherein a tip end portion of the screw shaft is retained by a retaining ring from a corresponding insertion hole of the support member. 【請求項４】請求項２または３に記載のラックアンドピ
ニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置において、 上記ばね座は上記ねじ孔を形成する筒状部を有し、この
筒状部は固定部材の上記挿通孔に回動不能で且つ軸方向
移動自在に挿通され、固定部材の上記挿通孔の内周部が
上記ばね座の回動を規制する手段を構成することを特徴
とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラッ
ク支持装置。4. A rack support device for a rack and pinion steering apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the spring seat has a tubular portion that forms the screw hole, and the tubular portion is a fixing member. A rack-and-pinion type, characterized in that it is inserted into the insertion hole so as not to be rotatable and axially movable, and the inner peripheral portion of the insertion hole of the fixing member constitutes means for restricting rotation of the spring seat. Rack support device for steering device. 【請求項５】請求項２乃至４の何れかに記載のラックア
ンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置にお
いて、 上記ねじ軸の外周部と固定部材の対応する挿通孔の内周
部との間を封止するシール部材をさらに備えることを特
徴とするラックアンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラ
ック支持装置。5. A rack supporting device for a rack-and-pinion type steering device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein a space between an outer peripheral portion of the screw shaft and an inner peripheral portion of a corresponding insertion hole of the fixing member is provided. A rack support device for a rack and pinion type steering device, further comprising a sealing member for sealing. 【請求項６】請求項２乃至５の何れかに記載のラックア
ンドピニオン式ステアリング装置のラック支持装置にお
いて、 上記ねじ軸の回動位置を所定の保持力で保持する手段を
さらに備えることを特徴とするラックアンドピニオン式
ステアリング装置のラック支持装置。6. The rack supporting device for a rack and pinion steering device according to claim 2, further comprising means for holding the turning position of the screw shaft with a predetermined holding force. Rack and pinion type steering device rack support device.
JP2001322484A 2001-10-19 2001-10-19 Rack support device for rack and pinion type steering device Expired - Fee Related JP4019685B2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2001322484A JP4019685B2 (en) 2001-10-19 2001-10-19 Rack support device for rack and pinion type steering device

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2001322484A JP4019685B2 (en) 2001-10-19 2001-10-19 Rack support device for rack and pinion type steering device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
JP2003127875A true JP2003127875A (en) 2003-05-08
JP4019685B2 JP4019685B2 (en) 2007-12-12

Family

ID=19139530

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
JP2001322484A Expired - Fee Related JP4019685B2 (en) 2001-10-19 2001-10-19 Rack support device for rack and pinion type steering device

Country Status (1)

Country Link
JP (1) JP4019685B2 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2013533149A (en) * 2010-06-02 2013-08-22 ツェットエフ、レンクジステメ、ゲゼルシャフト、ミット、ベシュレンクテル、ハフツング Device for pressing the gear rack

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2013533149A (en) * 2010-06-02 2013-08-22 ツェットエフ、レンクジステメ、ゲゼルシャフト、ミット、ベシュレンクテル、ハフツング Device for pressing the gear rack

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP4019685B2 (en) 2007-12-12

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