Steering column arrangement

Abstract

The present invention relates to a steering column device including an inner tube (120), a housing (130), and a lock mechanism (150) configured. The lock mechanism (150) includes a first engagement member (151), a second engagement member (152), a first urging member (153), a second urging member (154), a cam member (155) configured to rotate about a rotation axis extending in a direction in which the first urging member (153) and the second urging member (154) are arranged, such that the second urging member (154) serving as a driven member moves in the direction in which the first urging member (153) and the second urging member (154) are arranged to change a magnitude relationship between an urging force of the first urging member (153) and an urging force of the second urging member (154), and an operation lever (156) configured to operate the cam member (155).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a steering column device related to vehicle steering. Background Technology

[0002] Steering column assemblies comprising an inner tube and a housing are conventionally known in the art. The inner tube holds a column shaft to which a steering member is connected, allowing the column shaft to rotate. The housing is fixed to the vehicle and holds the inner tube, allowing the inner tube to slide in the axial direction. Such steering column assemblies include a plurality of teeth and a locking member (e.g., Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-182611 (JP 2015-182611A)). The teeth are formed in the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube and arranged in the axial direction. The locking member determines the position of the inner tube relative to the housing by engaging with the teeth at a desired location. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, conventional locking members engage and disengage with the teeth by rotating about a rotation axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the tooth arrangement. The locking member protrudes radially outward from the inner tube to a considerable extent. Therefore, the attachment position and attachment posture of steering column assemblies including conventional locking members are greatly limited.

[0004] Following the initial collision of a vehicle including a steering column, there is a possibility of a secondary collision between the driver and the steering components. To reduce the impact of this secondary collision on the driver, the steering column assembly includes a shock-absorbing mechanism.

[0005] However, the overall size of the steering column assembly, which includes both the locking mechanism and the damping mechanism separate from the locking mechanism, is relatively large, and the attachment position and attachment posture of such steering column assembly are greatly restricted.

[0006] The present invention provides a steering column device in which the locking mechanism protrudes less in the radial direction.

[0007] The present invention also provides a steering column device that reduces size by using a common component in a portion of the locking mechanism and a portion of the shock absorption mechanism.

[0008] A steering column device according to a first aspect of the invention includes: an inner tube having a tubular shape and configured to hold a column shaft connected to a steering member such that the column shaft is rotatable; a housing configured to hold the inner tube such that the inner tube is movable in an axial direction; and a locking mechanism configured to restrict movement of the inner tube relative to the housing at multiple locations. The locking mechanism includes a first engaging member, a second engaging member, a first pressing member, a second pressing member, a cam member, and an operating member. The first engaging member is fixedly disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube and has a plurality of first teeth arranged in the axial direction of the inner tube. The second engaging member is fixed relative to the housing in the axial direction. The second engaging member is configured to contact and separate from the first engaging member in a radial direction of the inner tube and has second teeth that mesh with the first teeth. The first pressing member is configured to push the second engaging member radially outward from the inner tube. The second pressing member is arranged in a line with the second engaging member and the first pressing member and is configured to push the second engaging member in a direction opposite to the direction of the pressing force of the first pressing member. The cam member is configured to rotate about a rotation axis extending in the direction in which the first and second push members are arranged, and to cause the second push member, which acts as a follower, to move in the direction in which the first and second push members are arranged, thereby changing the magnitude relationship between the pushing force of the first push member and the pushing force of the second push member. An operating lever is configured to operate the cam member.

[0009] According to the above aspects of the invention, the second engaging member, which serves as a locking member, moves linearly in the radial direction of the inner tube. Therefore, the thickness of the locking mechanism in the radial direction of the inner tube can be reduced, and the protrusion of the locking mechanism can be reduced.

[0010] A steering column device according to a second aspect of the invention includes an inner tube, a housing, and a locking mechanism. The inner tube has a tubular shape and is configured to hold a column shaft connected to a steering member such that the column shaft is rotatable. The housing is configured to hold the inner tube such that the inner tube is movable in an axial direction. The locking mechanism is configured to restrict movement of the inner tube relative to the housing at multiple locations. The locking mechanism includes a first engaging member, a second engaging member, a first pushing member, a pressing mechanism, and a retaining mechanism. The first engaging member is fixedly disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube and has a plurality of first teeth arranged in the axial direction of the inner tube. The second engaging member is fixed relative to the housing in the axial direction via a damping member. The second engaging member is configured to contact and separate from the first engaging member and has second teeth that engage with the first teeth. The first pushing member is configured to push the second engaging member outward from the inner tube. The pressing mechanism is configured to press the second engaging member toward the first engaging member against the pushing force of the first pushing member, so that the first teeth engage with the second teeth. The maintaining member is configured to hold the second engaging member in a position where the first tooth and the second tooth are engaged when a secondary collision occurs and the second engaging member moves toward a position where the second engaging member is not pressed by the pressing mechanism while deforming the damping member.

[0011] According to the above aspects of the invention, the size of the steering column assembly can be reduced, and the steering column assembly can be attached to the vehicle with improved flexibility. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements, and in the drawings:

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the steering column device according to the first embodiment;

[0014] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment;

[0015] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the locked state according to the first embodiment;

[0016] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the first joining member and the first pushing member according to the first embodiment;

[0017] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the unlocked state according to the first embodiment;

[0018] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the short-end restricted state according to the first embodiment;

[0019] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a steering column assembly having an attachment member attached to a steering column assembly according to the first embodiment;

[0020] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the steering column device according to the second embodiment;

[0021] Figure 9 This is an exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism according to the second embodiment;

[0022] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the locked state according to the second embodiment;

[0023] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the unlocked state and the short-end restricted state according to the second embodiment;

[0024] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism, engagement member, etc. during a secondary collision according to the second embodiment;

[0025] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the first pushing member according to the second embodiment;

[0026] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the first pushing member and the first joining member according to the third embodiment;

[0027] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism in the short-end restricted state according to the third embodiment; and

[0028] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a steering column assembly having an attachment member attached to the steering column assembly according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Embodiments of the steering column device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Each embodiment described below illustrates a comprehensive or specific example. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, positions and connections of components, steps, and sequences of steps described in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0030] The accompanying drawings are schematic diagrams in which components are appropriately emphasized, omitted, or scaled to illustrate the invention, and the shapes, positions, and proportions in the drawings may differ from the actual shapes, positions, and proportions.

[0031] Figure 1This is a perspective view showing the configuration of a steering column device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The steering column device 100 is a means for holding a steering member (not shown) via a column shaft (not shown) such that the steering member can rotate and its position can be changed. The steering member is operated by an operator, and an example of the steering member is a steering wheel. The steering column device 100 includes an inner tube 120, a housing 130, and an attachment member 200 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 7 The steering column assembly 100 also includes a locking mechanism 150. In the first embodiment, the steering column assembly 100 further includes a damping member 170. Although the steering column assembly 100 may include a column shaft, shaft members such as an intermediate shaft connected to the column shaft, and steering operating mechanisms such as a rack and pinion mechanism, the illustrations and descriptions of these components are omitted.

[0032] During normal use, in the absence of a collision, the steering column assembly 100 can change the position of the steering member according to the driver's physique (i.e., the driver's body size) by rotating the operating lever 156 (described later) to the unlock side and sliding the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The steering column assembly 100 can also fix the position of the inner tube 120 by means of the locking mechanism 150 by rotating the operating lever 156 to the locking side.

[0033] In the first embodiment, the steering column assembly 100 can also reduce the diameter of the housing 130 and tighten the inner tube 120 by rotating the operating lever 156 to the locking side. The steering column assembly 100, for example, by... Figure 7 The attachment member 200 shown is attached to the vehicle body in a suspended state, and the tilt of the housing 130 relative to the vehicle body can be changed. The steering column assembly 100 also includes a mechanism that can fix the tilt of the housing 130 and release the housing 130 via an operating lever 156.

[0034] The column shaft held by the inner tube 120 is a component having a distal end (the distal end on the negative side of the Y-axis in the figure) to which a steering member, turned by the operator, is attached. The column shaft is inserted through the housing 130 via the inner tube 120 and is rotatably held within the housing 130, transmitting the steering angle of the steering member to a steering mechanism such as a rack and pinion mechanism. In a first embodiment, the column shaft is held by the inner tube 120 via a bearing (not shown), fixed relative to the inner tube 120 in the axial direction, and rotatable relative to the inner tube 120 in the circumferential direction. The column shaft includes a spline fitting structure, etc. The column shaft is configured to extend as the inner tube 120 advances from the housing 130 and retract as the inner tube 120 retracts into the housing 130, while maintaining the transmission of the steering angle.

[0035] The inner tube 120, referred to as a column sleeve, upper tube, etc., holds the column shaft in a manner that allows the column shaft to rotate. The inner tube 120 is held by a housing 130 attached to the vehicle body. Thus, the inner tube 120 positions the steering member at a predetermined position via the column shaft, allowing the steering member to rotate. Although the shape of the inner tube 120 is not particularly limited, the inner tube 120 in the first embodiment has a cylindrical (tubular) shape, and in the first embodiment, the inner tube 120 is inserted into and held by the housing 130, which has a through hole in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The inner tube 120 holds the column shaft therein via at least one bearing, and the inner tube 120 moves together with the column shaft in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure) relative to the housing 130.

[0036] The housing 130 is a component having a tubular portion. This tubular portion holds the inner tube 120 such that the inner tube 120 can move relative to the vehicle body in an axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The housing 130 has a first slit 131 and a clamping portion 133. The first slit 131 extends axially from one end face of the housing 130 on the steering member side (i.e., one end face of the housing 130 on the steering member side) and extends radially through the wall of the housing 130 (Z-axis direction in the figure). The clamping portion 133 protrudes radially from two circumferentially oriented sides of the first slit 131. The first slit 131 is open at one end on the steering member side and closed at the other end on the opposite side.

[0037] Each of the clamping portions 133 has a through hole 134 extending perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube 120 and perpendicular to the direction in which the first slit 131 extends through the wall of the housing 130 (Z-axis direction in the figure). The through hole 134 is located on the outside of the inner tube 120. A shaft 157, which serves as the axis of rotation for the operating lever 156, described later, passes through the through hole 134. The two clamping portions 133 engage with the two ends of the shaft 157 in the axial direction of the shaft 157, respectively. One of the clamping portions 133 engages with the end of the shaft 157 via a retraction and release mechanism 144. The retraction and release mechanism 144 has a cam that changes the distance between the clamping portions 133 in the axial direction of the shaft 157 according to the rotation of the operating lever 156. With this structure, the distance between two clamping portions 133 opposite to each other can be reduced by rotation of the operating lever 156. By reducing the distance between the clamping portions 133, the diameter of the housing 130 is reduced, and the inner tube 120 inserted into the housing 130 is secured around the inner tube 120 by the housing 130 and fixedly held by the housing 130.

[0038] The housing 130 also has a second slit 132. The second slit 132 allows the first engaging member 151 (described later), which is part of the locking mechanism 150, to move axially with the inner tube 120, and also allows the locking mechanism 150 to be operated from the outside. In a first embodiment, the second slit 132 extends through the wall of the housing 130 in the radial direction (X-axis direction in the figure) of the inner tube 120. The direction in which the second slit 132 extends through the wall of the housing 130 intersects the direction in which the first slit 131 extends through the wall of the housing 130 (in the first embodiment, the direction in which the second slit 132 extends through the wall of the housing 130 is perpendicular to the direction in which the first slit 131 extends through the wall of the housing 130). The second slit 132 is closed at both ends in the axial direction.

[0039] The operating lever 156 is a component operated by a driver or the like from the outside of the inner tube 120 to switch the locking mechanism 150 between a locked and unlocked state. The locking mechanism 150 will be described in detail later. In the first embodiment, in addition to switching the locking mechanism 150 between the locked and unlocked states, the operating lever 156 can also position the inner tube 120 by pressing the two clamping portions 133 of the housing 130 toward each other, and the operating lever 156 can also release the inner tube 120. The operating lever 156 includes a shaft 157 passing through through holes 134 on both sides of the first slit 131 of the housing 130, and the operating lever 156 rotates about the shaft 157. A flange portion 158 is provided at one end of the shaft 157, and a thrust bearing and a nut (not shown) are provided at the other end of the shaft 157.

[0040] A retraction and release mechanism 144 is disposed between one of the clamping portions 133 and the flange portion 158. The retraction and release mechanism 144 comprises two parts that rotate relative to each other. One of the two parts rotates together with the operating lever 156, and the other part is movable along the axis 157. The rotational movement of the retraction and release mechanism 144 about the axis is limited by the through-hole 210 of the attachment member 200. As described above, by rotating the operating lever 156 about the axis 157, the locking mechanism 150 can be switched to a locked state, and the distance between the clamping portions 133 can also be reduced to fix the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130.

[0041] Figure 2 This is an exploded 3D view of the locking mechanism 150. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism 150. The locking mechanism 150 is a linear motion mechanism capable of restricting the movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 at multiple positions. The locking mechanism 150 includes a first engaging member 151, a second engaging member 152, a first pushing member 153, a second pushing member 154, a cam member 155, and an operating lever 156.

[0042] The first engaging member 151 is a member that is fixedly disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube 120 and has a plurality of first teeth 161 arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube 120.

[0043] In the first embodiment, the first joining member 151 is a strip-shaped (strip-shaped) sheet metal member, and the first joining member 151 has first teeth 161 formed in one surface of the first joining member 151 and arranged in the axial direction of the inner tube 120. The shape of the first teeth 161 is not particularly limited, as long as the first teeth 161 engage with the second teeth 162, which will be described later. For example, the first teeth 161 can be grooves, recesses, etc., formed at predetermined intervals. In the first embodiment, the first teeth 161 are ridge-like portions having a serrated shape in cross-section and extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first teeth 161 are arranged (the Y-axis direction in the figure) (the width direction of the first joining member 151).

[0044] In a first embodiment, the first engaging member 151 has walls 163 extending along two edges of the first engaging member in the width direction (Z-axis direction in the figure). The walls 163 are erected in a direction outward relative to the inner tube 120. The first engaging member 151 has strip-shaped sliding portions 164, each of which is located in the width direction of the first engaging member 151 between a corresponding wall 163 and a corresponding end of the end of the first tooth 161. The sliding portions 164 extend in the axial direction. The first pressing member 153 contacts the sliding portions 164, and the sliding portions 164 slide on the first pressing member 153 as the inner tube 120 moves in the axial direction.

[0045] The second engaging member 152 is a member fixed relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 during normal use before a secondary impact occurs. The second engaging member 152 contacts and separates from the first engaging member 151 in the radial direction (X-axis direction in the figure) of the inner tube 120, and the second engaging member 152 has a second tooth 162 that engages with the first tooth 161. In a first embodiment, the second engaging member 152 is fixed to the housing 130 via a shock-absorbing member 170, and the second engaging member 152 is movable relative to the shock-absorbing member 170 in the radial direction of the inner tube 120. Specifically, the second engaging member 152 has an engaging groove 166 in its surface facing the first engaging member 151. The engaging groove 166 is recessed in a direction away from the first engaging member 151 and extends in the width direction of the first engaging member 151. The damping member 170, fixed to the housing 130, is fitted in the engagement groove 166, and thus the movement of the second engagement member 152 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 is fixedly restricted, while the movement of the second engagement member 152 in the radial direction of the inner tube 120 is permitted.

[0046] The shape of the second tooth 162 is not particularly limited, as long as the second tooth 162 engages with the first tooth 161. In the first embodiment, the second tooth 162 is a ridge-like portion that has a serrated shape in cross-section corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the first tooth 161 and extends in the width direction of the first engaging member 151.

[0047] The second engaging member 152 has a retaining groove 167 in its surface facing the first engaging member 151. The retaining groove 167 is formed in the middle portion of the second engaging member 152 in the axial direction. The retaining groove 167 is recessed in a direction away from the first engaging member 151 and extends in the width direction of the first engaging member 151. The retaining groove 167 is the portion that retains the first pressing member 153. In the first embodiment, a pair of second teeth 162 are positioned on each side of the retaining groove 167.

[0048] Figure 4This is a perspective view of the first pressing member 153. The first pressing member 153 is a member that pushes the second engaging member 152 outward from the inner tube 120 along the radial direction of the inner tube 120. Although the shape of the first pressing member 153 is not particularly limited, the first pressing member 153 in the first embodiment has an H-shape as observed in the plan view. Specifically, the first pressing member 153 has a pair of elastic portions 168 extending in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 and a retaining portion 169 connecting the middle portion of the elastic portions 168 like a bridge. The elastic portions 168 are bent to protrude outward along the radial direction of the inner tube 120 (i.e., protruding in the negative X-axis direction in the figure). The elastic portions 168 function as a leaf spring, which applies pushing force by utilizing the elasticity of the material of the first pressing member 153 and the bending of the elastic portions 168. The elastic portions 168 are respectively disposed on both sides of the first tooth 161 and contact the sliding portion 164 of the first engaging member 151. The retaining portion 169 is fitted into the retaining groove 167 of the second engaging member 152. The first pushing member 153 pushes the second engaging member 152 outward in the radial direction of the inner tube 120 by utilizing the balance between the pushing forces of the elastic portion 168.

[0049] The second pressing member 154 presses the second engaging member 152 in a direction opposite to the pressing force of the first pressing member 153. The second pressing member 154 is arranged in a line with the second engaging member 152 and the first pressing member 153. In the first embodiment, the pressing axis of the first pressing member 153, which indicates the pressing direction of the first pressing member 153, is aligned with the pressing axis of the second pressing member 154. Therefore, based on the relationship between the pressing force of the first pressing member 153 and the pressing force of the second pressing member 154, the second engaging member 152 sandwiched between the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 can move in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged.

[0050] Although the shape of the second pressing member 154 is not particularly limited, in the first embodiment, the second pressing member 154 is a member that extends and retracts in the direction in which the first pressing member 153, the second engaging member 152, and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. Specifically, the second pressing member 154 is a helical spring.

[0051] In the first embodiment, the second pressing member 154 is guided by a guiding mechanism 107. The guiding mechanism 107 is fixed relative to the housing 130 and guides the extension and retraction of the second pressing member 154, as well as its movement, in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. Although the structure of the guiding mechanism 107 is not particularly limited, the guiding mechanism 107 in the first embodiment includes a retaining element 172 and a guiding member 171. The guiding member 171 guides the retaining element 172 in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged.

[0052] Although the shape of the retaining element 172 is not particularly limited, the retaining element 172 in the first embodiment has a cylindrical shape in which the second pressing member 154, which serves as a helical spring, is received and held. The retaining element 172 has a flange at one end and is open at the other end. The flange projects inward and engages with the second pressing member 154. The second pressing member 154 in its uncompressed state protrudes from the opening at the other end of the retaining element 172. The length of the retaining element 172 is less than the length of the second pressing member 154 in its uncompressed state.

[0053] Although the shape of the guide member 171 is not particularly limited, the guide member 171 in the first embodiment includes a guide hole 173, a base 174, and a guide portion 180. The guide hole 173 guides the retaining element 172 that receives the second pressing member 154 in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. The base 174 holds the guide hole 173 in a predetermined position. The guide portion 180 extends from the base 174 in the axial direction of the shaft 157. Since the shaft 157, which serves as the axis of rotation of the operating lever 156, passes through the base 174 and the guide portion 180 engages with through holes 210 formed in a pair of sidewalls of the attachment member 200, the base 174 is fixed to the vehicle body. The base 174 has an annular cam surrounding the shaft 157 passing through the base 174, which is part of one of the two parts of the retraction and release mechanism 144. In other words, due to the rotation of the operating lever 156, the base 174 can move along the axis 157.

[0054] The cam member 155 is a member disposed on the outer side of the inner tube 120 (or, in the first embodiment, on the outer side of the housing 130). The cam member 155 changes the distance from the second pushing member 154 to the first engaging member 151, thereby changing the magnitude relationship between the pushing force of the first pushing member 153 and the pushing force of the second pushing member 154. In the first embodiment, as... Figure 3As shown, the cam member 155 has a proximal surface 175 and a distal surface 176 facing the first engagement member 151. The proximal surface 175 is positioned close to the first engagement member 151, and the distal surface 176 is positioned further away from the first engagement member 151 than the proximal surface 175. The proximal surface 175 and the distal surface 176 are connected by a smooth surface. The proximal surface 175 or the distal surface 176 contacts the second push member 154 via the retaining element 172 of the guide mechanism 107, and the second push member 154 serves as a follower.

[0055] In the first embodiment, the cam member 155 is integrally attached to the operating lever 156, and when the operating lever 156 is operated, the cam member 155 operates together with the operating lever 156. Specifically, when the operating lever 156 rotates, the cam member 155 rotates about an axis 157 extending in a direction in which the first push member 153 and the second push member 154 are arranged, and causes the second push member 154 to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotation direction (torque direction) of the operating lever 156 (the direction in which the first push member 153 and the second push member 154 are arranged).

[0056] The damping member 170 is a member fixed to the housing 130. During normal use, the damping member 170 fixes the second engaging member 152 relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120. In the event of a secondary impact, the second engaging member 152 moves relative to the housing 130 when the inner tube 120 is pressed into the housing 130. As a result, the damping member 170 deforms and absorbs the impact of the secondary impact. In the first embodiment, the damping member 170 is a rod member bent into an M-shape. The damping member 170 has two ends fixed to the housing 130 and a middle portion that fits into the engaging groove 166 of the second engaging member 152.

[0057] Next, the operation of the steering column assembly 100 will be described. Figure 3The locking mechanism 150 is shown in a locked state, in which movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 is not permitted. When the proximal surface 175 of the cam member 155, the second pressing member 154, the second engaging member 152, and the first pressing member 153 are aligned, the proximal surface 175 of the cam member 155 presses the second pressing member 154 toward the first pressing member 153. As a result, the pushing force of the second pressing member 154 becomes greater than the pushing force of the first pressing member 153, and the first tooth 161 of the first engaging member 151 and the second tooth 162 of the second engaging member 152 mesh with each other. Therefore, the locking mechanism 150 is switched to the locked state. The movement of the second pressing member 154 is guided by the guide mechanism 107 in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. The pressing axis of the second pressing member 154, which is a helical spring, is aligned with the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged via a tubular retaining element 172. The retaining element 172 does not come into contact with the second engaging member 152.

[0058] Next, the driver or others rotate the control lever 156 about the axis 157, such that the distal surface 176 of the cam member 155, which rotates together with the control lever 156, is aligned with the second push member 154, the second engagement member 152, and the first push member 153 (see [link]). Figure 5 Similarly, in this state, the distal surface 176 of the cam member 155 presses the second pressing member 154 toward the first pressing member 153. However, the second pressing member 154 moves away from the first engaging member 151, and thus extends to a relatively large extent. As a result, the pushing force of the second pressing member 154 becomes less than the pushing force of the first pressing member 153. Therefore, the second engaging member 152 is lifted by the pushing force of the first pressing member 153, and the first tooth 161 of the first engaging member 151 disengages from the second tooth 162 of the second engaging member 152.

[0059] By rotating the operating lever 156 around axis 157 to switch the positions of the near surface 175 and the far surface 176 of the cam member 155, the second engaging member 152 can reciprocate in a direction perpendicular to the rotating surface of the cam member 155 via the second pushing member 154. Through this reciprocating motion of the second engaging member 152, the locking mechanism 150 can switch between a locked state and an unlocked state as needed. In the locked state, the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 are engaged with each other; in the unlocked state, the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 are disengaged from each other.

[0060] Since the steering column assembly 100 includes a locking mechanism 150 having the above-described structure, the overall size of the steering column assembly 100 (i.e., the size of the steering column assembly 100 in the radial direction of the inner tube 120) can be reduced, and the flexibility of the attachment position and the flexibility of the steering column assembly 100's posture in the vehicle body can be improved.

[0061] The first engaging member 151 has a recess 108 in its end (i.e., the end of the sliding portion 164 on the steering member side, or the negative Y-axis side in the figure) located at the end of the sliding portion 164 on the steering member side. When a portion of the first pushing member 153 enters the recess 108, the recess 108 allows the first pushing member 153 to move toward the inner tube 120 (towards the positive X-axis side in the figure). Figure 6 As shown, when the first pushing member 153 is located in the recess 108 while the locking mechanism 150 is in the unlocked state, the pushing force of the second pushing member 154, which pushes the second engaging member 152 towards the first engaging member 151, becomes greater than the pushing force of the first pushing member 153, causing the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 to mesh with each other. Therefore, the movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 can be restricted.

[0062] Recess 108 is formed in each of the two sliding portions 164 in a shape corresponding to the first pressing member 153. Recess 108 includes a first recess 181 and a second recess 182. The first recess 181 and the second recess 182 are arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube 120 (the Y-axis direction in the figure). The second recess 182 is formed closer to the steering member than the first recess 181. The width of each first recess 181 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube 120, i.e., the width in the width direction of the first engaging member 151, is smaller than the width of each second recess 182 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube 120. The first pressing member 153 has an H-shape as seen in the plan view, and the first pressing member 153 includes a first contact portion 183 and a second contact portion 184. The first contact portion 183 and the second contact portion 184 are arranged axially and contact the sliding portion 164. The second contact portion 184 is located closer to the steering member than the first contact portion 183. The width of each second contact portion 184 is greater than the width of each first recess 181 and less than the width of each second recess 182. The width of each first contact portion 183 is less than the width of each first recess 181. This configuration allows the second contact portion 184 to pass over the first recess 181 without entering it. Therefore, the first contact portion 183 and the second contact portion 184 can enter the first recess 181 and the second recess 182 simultaneously, respectively. Therefore, the first pushing member 153 can move parallel to the first engaging member 151, and the second engaging member 152 can move toward the first engaging member 151 without tilting.

[0063] In the steering column assembly 100 according to the first embodiment, since the first engaging member 151 has a recess 108, the short end of the inner tube 120 is restricted by the components of the locking mechanism 150. Therefore, the total number of components of the steering column assembly 100 can be reduced.

[0064] This invention is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, the invention can be implemented in other embodiments by combining or excluding some of the components described in the specification as needed. Those skilled in the art can modify the above embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, and such modifications are also included in the invention.

[0065] For example, the above embodiments illustrate a case where the first joining member 151 is a member separate from the inner tube 120 and the inner tube 120 is fixedly attached to the first joining member 151 by welding or the like. However, the first joining member 151 can be integrated with the inner tube 120.

[0066] Each of the first pressing member 153, the second pressing member 154, the first joining member 151, the second joining member 152, etc., may be made of a desired material such as metal.

[0067] The above embodiments illustrate how rotation of the operating lever 156 can switch the locking mechanism 150 between a locked and unlocked state, and how reducing the distance between the clamping portions 133 of the housing 130 can tighten or release the inner tube 120. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0068] The above embodiments illustrate a case where one of the two parts of the contraction and release mechanism 144 is integrated with the guide member 171. However, the guide mechanism 107 and the contraction and release mechanism 144 can be separate mechanisms.

[0069] The above embodiments illustrate the case where the damping member 170 holds the second engaging member 152 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120. However, the locking mechanism 150 and the damping mechanism including the damping member 170 may be separate mechanisms.

[0070] This invention can be used in devices related to vehicle steering.

[0071] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of a steering column device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The steering column device 100 is a means for holding a steering member (not shown) via a column shaft (not shown) such that the steering member can rotate and its position can be changed. The steering member is operated by an operator, and an example of the steering member is a steering wheel. The steering column device 100 includes an inner tube 120, a housing 130, and an attachment member 200 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 16 ), locking mechanism 150 and shock-absorbing member 170. Although the steering column assembly 100 may include a column shaft, shaft members such as an intermediate shaft connected to the column shaft, and steering operating mechanisms such as a rack and pinion mechanism, the illustrations and descriptions of these components are omitted.

[0072] During normal use, in the absence of a collision, the steering column assembly 100 can change the position of the steering member according to the driver's physique (i.e., the driver's body size) by rotating the operating lever 156 (described later) to the unlock side and sliding the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The steering column assembly 100 can also fix the position of the inner tube 120 by means of the locking mechanism 150 by rotating the operating lever 156 to the locking side.

[0073] In the second embodiment, the steering column assembly 100 can also reduce the diameter of the housing 130 and tighten the inner tube 120 by rotating the operating lever 156 to the locking side. The steering column assembly 100, for example, by... Figure 16 The attachment member 200 shown is attached to the vehicle body in a suspended state, and the tilt of the housing 130 relative to the vehicle body can be changed. The steering column assembly 100 also includes a mechanism that can fix the tilt of the housing 130 and release the housing 130 via an operating lever 156.

[0074] The column shaft held by the inner tube 120 is a component having a distal end (the distal end on the negative side of the Y-axis in the figure) to which a steering member, turned by the operator, is attached. The column shaft is inserted through the housing 130 via the inner tube 120 and is rotatably held within the housing 130, transmitting the steering angle of the steering member to a steering mechanism such as a rack and pinion mechanism. In a second embodiment, the column shaft is held by the inner tube 120 via a bearing (not shown), fixed relative to the inner tube 120 in the axial direction, and rotatable relative to the inner tube 120 in the circumferential direction. The column shaft includes a spline fitting structure, etc. The column shaft is configured to extend as the inner tube 120 advances from the housing 130 and retract as the inner tube 120 retracts into the housing 130, while maintaining the transmission of the steering angle.

[0075] The inner tube 120, referred to as a column sleeve, upper tube, etc., holds the column shaft in a manner that allows the column shaft to rotate. The inner tube 120 is held by a housing 130 attached to the vehicle body. Thus, the inner tube 120 positions the steering member at a predetermined position via the column shaft, allowing the steering member to rotate. Although the shape of the inner tube 120 is not particularly limited, the inner tube 120 in the second embodiment has a cylindrical (tubular) shape, and in the second embodiment, the inner tube 120 is inserted into and held by the housing 130, which has a through hole in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The inner tube 120 holds the column shaft therein via at least one bearing, and the inner tube 120 moves relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure) together with the column shaft.

[0076] The housing 130 is a component having a tubular portion. The tubular portion holds the inner tube 120 such that the inner tube 120 can move relative to the vehicle body in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure). The housing 130 has a first slit 131 and a clamping portion 133. The first slit 131 extends axially from one end face of the housing 130 on the steering member side (i.e., one end face of the housing 130 on the steering member side) and extends radially through the wall of the housing 130 (Z-axis direction in the figure). The clamping portion 133 protrudes radially from two circumferentially oriented sides of the first slit 131. The first slit 131 is open at one end on the steering member side and closed at the other end on the opposite side.

[0077] Each of the clamping portions 133 has a through hole 134 extending perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube 120 and perpendicular to the direction in which the first slit 131 extends through the wall of the housing 130 (Z-axis direction in the figure). The through hole 134 is located on the outside of the inner tube 120. A shaft 157, which serves as the axis of rotation for the operating lever 156, described later, passes through the through hole 134. The two clamping portions 133 engage with the two ends of the shaft 157 in the axial direction of the shaft 157, respectively. One of the clamping portions 133 engages with the end of the shaft 157 via a retraction and release mechanism 144. The retraction and release mechanism 144 has a cam that changes the distance between the clamping portions 133 in the axial direction of the shaft 157 according to the rotation of the operating lever 156. With this structure, the distance between two clamping portions 133 opposite to each other can be reduced by rotation of the operating lever 156. By reducing the distance between the clamping portions 133, the diameter of the housing 130 is reduced, and the inner tube 120 inserted into the housing 130 is secured around the inner tube 120 by the housing 130 and fixedly held by the housing 130.

[0078] The housing 130 also has a second slit 132. The second slit 132 allows the first engaging member 151 (described later), which is part of the locking mechanism 150, to move axially with the inner tube 120, and also allows the locking mechanism 150 to be operated from the outside. In a second embodiment, the second slit 132 extends through the wall of the housing 130 in the radial direction (X-axis direction in the figure) of the inner tube 120. The direction in which the second slit 132 extends through the wall of the housing 130 intersects the direction in which the first slit 131 extends through the wall of the housing 130 (in a second embodiment, the direction in which the second slit 132 extends through the wall of the housing 130 is perpendicular to the direction in which the first slit 131 extends through the wall of the housing 130). The second slit 132 is closed at both ends in the axial direction.

[0079] The operating lever 156 is a component operated by a driver or the like from the outside of the inner tube 120 to switch the locking mechanism 150 between a locked and unlocked state. The locking mechanism 150 will be described in detail later. In the second embodiment, in addition to switching the locking mechanism 150 between the locked and unlocked states, the operating lever 156 can also position the inner tube 120 by pressing the two clamping portions 133 of the housing 130 toward each other, and the operating lever 156 can also release the inner tube 120. The operating lever 156 includes a shaft 157 passing through through holes 134 on both sides of the first slit 131 of the housing 130, and the operating lever 156 rotates about the shaft 157. A flange portion 158 is provided at one end of the shaft 157, and a thrust bearing and a nut (not shown) are provided at the other end of the shaft 157.

[0080] A retraction and release mechanism 144 is disposed between one of the clamping portions 133 and the flange portion 158. The retraction and release mechanism 144 comprises two parts that rotate relative to each other. One of the two parts rotates together with the operating lever 156, and the other part is movable along the axis 157. The rotational movement of the retraction and release mechanism 144 about the axis is limited by the through-hole 210 of the attachment member 200. As described above, by rotating the operating lever 156 about the axis 157, the locking mechanism 150 can be switched to a locked state, and the distance between the clamping portions 133 can also be reduced to fix the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130.

[0081] Figure 9 This is an exploded 3D view of the locking mechanism 150. Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism 150. The locking mechanism 150 is a mechanism capable of restricting the movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 at multiple positions. The locking mechanism 150 includes a first engaging member 151, a second engaging member 152, a first pushing member 153, a pressing mechanism 105, a holding member 135, and an operating lever 156.

[0082] The first engaging member 151 is a member fixedly disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube 120 and having a plurality of first teeth 161 arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube 120. In the second embodiment, the first engaging member 151 is a strip-shaped (strip-shaped) sheet metal member, and the first engaging member 151 has first teeth 161 formed in one surface of the first engaging member 151 arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube 120. The shape of the first teeth 161 is not particularly limited, as long as the first teeth 161 engage with the second teeth 162, which will be described later. For example, the first teeth 161 can be grooves, recesses, etc., formed at predetermined intervals. In the second embodiment, the first teeth 161 are ridge-like portions having a serrated shape in cross-section and extending in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first teeth 161 are arranged (the Y-axis direction in the figure) (the width direction of the first engaging member 151).

[0083] like Figure 11 As shown, the first engaging member 151 has a contact portion 177. The contact portion 177 protrudes to a position where it contacts the end of the second engaging member 152 in the axial direction (Y-axis direction in the figure) even when the second engaging member 152 is separated from the first engaging member 151. The contact portion 177 is integrally formed with the end of the first engaging member 151 on the axial direction of the steering member side (the negative side of the Y-axis in the figure) (i.e., the end of the first engaging member 151 on the steering member side in the axial direction), and the contact portion 177 stands upright from this end of the first engaging member 151. To reduce the impact caused by the contact between the contact portion 177 and the second engaging member 152, a cushioning member such as rubber can be attached to at least one of the contact portion 177 and the portion of the second engaging member 152 that contacts the contact portion 177.

[0084] In the second embodiment, the first engaging member 151 has walls 163 extending along two edges of the first engaging member in the width direction (Z-axis direction in the figure). The walls 163 are erected in a direction outward relative to the inner tube 120. The first engaging member 151 has strip-shaped sliding portions 164, each of which is located in the width direction of the first engaging member 151 between a corresponding wall 163 and a corresponding end of the end of the first tooth 161. The sliding portions 164 extend in the axial direction. The first pressing member 153 contacts the sliding portions 164, and the sliding portions 164 slide on the first pressing member 153 as the inner tube 120 moves in the axial direction.

[0085] The second engaging member 152 is a member fixed relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 via the shock-absorbing member 170 during normal use before a secondary impact occurs. The second engaging member 152 contacts and separates from the first engaging member 151 in the radial direction (X-axis direction in the figure) of the inner tube 120, and the second engaging member 152 has a second tooth 162 that engages with the first tooth 161. In a second embodiment, the second engaging member 152 is fixed relative to the housing 130 via the shock-absorbing member 170, and the second engaging member 152 is movable relative to the shock-absorbing member 170 in the radial direction of the inner tube 120. Specifically, the second engaging member 152 has an engaging groove 166 in its surface facing the first engaging member 151. The engaging groove 166 is recessed in a direction away from the first engaging member 151 and extends in the width direction of the first engaging member 151. The damping member 170, fixed to the housing 130, is fitted in the engagement groove 166, and thus the movement of the second engagement member 152 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 is fixedly restricted, while the movement of the second engagement member 152 in the radial direction of the inner tube 120 is permitted.

[0086] The shape of the second tooth 162 is not particularly limited, as long as the second tooth 162 engages with the first tooth 161. In the second embodiment, the second tooth 162 is a ridge-like portion that has a serrated shape in cross-section corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the first tooth 161 and extends in the width direction of the first engaging member 151.

[0087] The second engaging member 152 has a retaining groove 167 in its surface facing the first engaging member 151. The retaining groove 167 is formed in the middle portion of the second engaging member 152 in the axial direction. The retaining groove 167 is recessed in a direction away from the first engaging member 151 and extends in the width direction of the first engaging member 151. The retaining groove 167 is the portion that retains the first pressing member 153. In the second embodiment, a pair of second teeth 162 are positioned on each side of the retaining groove 167.

[0088] Figure 13This is a perspective view of the first pressing member 153. The first pressing member 153 is a member that pushes the second engaging member 152 outward from the inner tube 120 along the radial direction of the inner tube 120. Although the shape of the first pressing member 153 is not particularly limited, the first pressing member 153 in the second embodiment has an H-shape as observed in the plan view. Specifically, the first pressing member 153 has a pair of elastic portions 168 extending in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 and a retaining portion 169 connecting the middle portion of the elastic portions 168 like a bridge. The elastic portions 168 are bent to protrude outward along the radial direction of the inner tube 120 (i.e., protruding in the negative X-axis direction in the figure). The elastic portions 168 function as a leaf spring, which applies pushing force by utilizing the elasticity of the material of the first pressing member 153 and the bending of the elastic portions 168. The elastic portions 168 are respectively disposed on both sides of the first tooth 161 and contact the sliding portion 164 of the first engaging member 151. The retaining portion 169 is fitted into the retaining groove 167 of the second engaging member 152. The first pushing member 153 pushes the second engaging member 152 outward in the radial direction of the inner tube 120 by utilizing the balance between the pushing forces of the elastic portion 168.

[0089] The pressing mechanism 105 is a mechanism that presses the second engaging member 152 toward the first engaging member 151 against the pushing force of the first pushing member 153, so that the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 mesh with each other. In the second embodiment, the pressing mechanism 105 includes a second pushing member 154 and a cam member 155.

[0090] The second pressing member 154 presses the second engaging member 152 in a direction opposite to the pressing force of the first pressing member 153. In the second embodiment, the second pressing member 154, the second engaging member 152, and the first pressing member 153 are arranged in a line. The pressing axis of the first pressing member 153, which indicates the pressing direction of the first pressing member 153, is aligned with the pressing axis of the second pressing member 154. Therefore, based on the relationship between the pressing force of the first pressing member 153 and the pressing force of the second pressing member 154, the second engaging member 152, sandwiched between the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154, can move in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged.

[0091] Although the shape of the second pressing member 154 is not particularly limited, in the second embodiment, the second pressing member 154 is a member that extends and retracts in the direction in which the first pressing member 153, the second engaging member 152, and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. Specifically, the second pressing member 154 is a helical spring.

[0092] In the second embodiment, the second pressing member 154 is guided by a guiding mechanism 107. The guiding mechanism 107 is fixed relative to the housing 130 and guides the extension and retraction of the second pressing member 154, as well as its movement, in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. Although the structure of the guiding mechanism 107 is not particularly limited, the guiding mechanism 107 in the second embodiment includes a retaining element 172 and a guiding member 171. The guiding member 171 guides the retaining element 172 in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged.

[0093] Although the shape of the retaining element 172 is not particularly limited, the retaining element 172 in the second embodiment has a cylindrical shape in which the second pressing member 154, which serves as a helical spring, is received and held. The retaining element 172 has a flange at one end and is open at the other end. The flange projects inward and engages with the second pressing member 154. The second pressing member 154 in its uncompressed state protrudes from the opening at the other end of the retaining element 172. The length of the retaining element 172 is less than the length of the second pressing member 154 in its uncompressed state.

[0094] Although the shape of the guide member 171 is not particularly limited, the guide member 171 in the second embodiment includes a guide hole 173, a base 174, and a guide portion 180. The guide hole 173 guides the retaining element 172 that receives the second pressing member 154 in the direction in which the first pressing member 153 and the second pressing member 154 are arranged. The base 174 holds the guide hole 173 in a predetermined position. The guide portion 180 extends from the base 174 in the axial direction of the shaft 157. Since the shaft 157, which serves as the axis of rotation of the operating lever 156, passes through the base 174 and the guide portion 180 engages with through holes 210 formed in a pair of sidewalls of the attachment member 200, the base 174 is fixed to the vehicle body. The base 174 has an annular cam surrounding the shaft 157 passing through the base 174, which is part of one of the two parts of the retraction and release mechanism 144. In other words, due to the rotation of the operating lever 156, the base 174 can move along the axis 157.

[0095] The cam member 155 is a member disposed on the outer side of the inner tube 120 (or, in the second embodiment, on the outer side of the housing 130). The cam member 155 changes the distance from the second pushing member 154 to the first engaging member 151, thereby changing the magnitude relationship between the pushing force of the first pushing member 153 and the pushing force of the second pushing member 154. In the second embodiment, as... Figure 10As shown, the cam member 155 has a proximal surface 175 and a distal surface 176 facing the first engagement member 151. The proximal surface 175 is positioned close to the first engagement member 151, and the distal surface 176 is positioned further away from the first engagement member 151 than the proximal surface 175. The proximal surface 175 and the distal surface 176 are connected by a smooth surface. The proximal surface 175 or the distal surface 176 contacts the second push member 154 via the retaining element 172 of the guide mechanism 107, and the second push member 154 serves as a follower.

[0096] In the second embodiment, the cam member 155 is integrally attached to the operating lever 156, and when the operating lever 156 is operated, the cam member 155 operates together with the operating lever 156. Specifically, when the operating lever 156 rotates, the cam member 155 rotates about an axis 157 extending in a direction in which the first push member 153 and the second push member 154 are arranged, and causes the second push member 154 to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotation direction (torque direction) of the operating lever 156 (the direction in which the first push member 153 and the second push member 154 are arranged).

[0097] The damping member 170 is a member fixed to the housing 130. During normal use, the damping member 170 fixes the second engaging member 152 relative to the housing 130 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120. In the event of a secondary impact, the second engaging member 152 moves relative to the housing 130 when the inner tube 120 is pressed into the housing 130. As a result, the damping member 170 deforms and absorbs the impact of the secondary impact. In a second embodiment, the damping member 170 is a rod member bent into an M-shape. The damping member 170 has two ends fixed to the housing 130 and a middle portion that fits into the engaging groove 166 of the second engaging member 152.

[0098] The retaining member 135 is a member that maintains the second engaging member 152 at the position where the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 are engaged when a secondary collision occurs and the second engaging member 152 moves toward a position where the second engaging member 152 is not pressed by the second pushing member 154, which is part of the pressing mechanism 105, while deforming the shock-absorbing member 170. Figure 12As shown in the diagram. In the second embodiment, the retaining member 135 is a sheet of metal attached to the housing 130 and closing at least a portion of the second slit 132. The retaining member 135 is configured to extend from a position where it covers the second engaging member 152 during normal use before a secondary impact occurs to a position where the second engaging member 152 moves axially during a secondary impact. In other words, the retaining member 135 is configured to extend axially along the inner tube 120 such that the retaining member 135 covers the second engaging member 152 during normal use before a secondary impact occurs, and such that the retaining member 135 still covers the second engaging member 152 when the second engaging member 152 is located at the position where the second engaging member 152 moves axially during a secondary impact. The distance from the portion of the retaining member 135 that covers the second engaging member 152 during normal use to the first engaging member 151 is a distance that allows the second engaging member 152 to move toward a position where the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 do not engage with each other. The distance from the portion of the second engaging member 152 along which the second engaging member 152 passes during a secondary collision to the first engaging member 151 is such that the second engaging member 152 can move together with the first engaging member 151 when the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 are engaged with each other.

[0099] The retaining member 135 has an inclined portion 136 between the portion of the retaining member 135 that covers the second engaging member 152 during normal use and the portion of the retaining member 135 along which the second engaging member 152 passes during a secondary impact. The inclined portion 136 allows the second engaging member 152 to move smoothly in the event of a secondary impact. The second engaging member 152 has a tapered portion at its end corresponding to the inclined portion 136. When the inclined portion 136 of the retaining member 135 contacts the tapered portion of the second engaging member 152, the second engaging member 152 can move more smoothly in the event of a secondary impact.

[0100] In the second embodiment, the retaining member 135 includes a limiting portion 137. When the locking mechanism 150 is in the unlocked state during normal use, the limiting portion 137 restricts the movement of the second engaging member 152 by contacting the end of the second engaging member 152 in the axial direction of the inner tube 120 opposite to the steering member.

[0101] Because the first engaging member 151 has a contact portion 177 and the retaining member 135 has a limiting portion 137, a so-called short-end restriction is achieved. More specifically, when the driver switches the locking mechanism 150 to the unlocked state and presses the steering member toward the front of the vehicle to adjust the position of the steering member, the steering member is restricted from being pressed further toward the front of the vehicle when the contact portion 177 contacts the limiting portion 137 via the second engaging member 152 positioned between the contact portion 177 and the limiting portion 137. Figure 11 As shown in the diagram. Because the short-end limiting structure and the locking mechanism 150 share common components, the number of components can be reduced.

[0102] In the second embodiment, the limiting portion 137 is a separate member from the retaining member 135, and the limiting portion 137 is made of resin. Upon a secondary impact, the second engaging member 152 moves, causing the resin-made limiting portion 137 to break. Therefore, the limiting portion 137 can serve as a shock-absorbing member that absorbs the impact generated in the initial stage of the secondary impact through breakage. The limiting portion 137 can be integrally formed with the retaining member 135.

[0103] Next, the operation of the steering column assembly 100 will be described. For example... Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, during normal use, the second engaging member 152 moves linearly between the retaining member 135 and the first engaging member 151, and the locking mechanism 150 switches between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 is not permitted; in the unlocked state, movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 is permitted. Specifically, when the proximal surface 175 of the cam member 155, the second pushing member 154, the second engaging member 152, and the first pushing member 153 are aligned, the proximal surface 175 of the cam member 155 presses the second pushing member 154 toward the first pushing member 153. As a result, the pushing force of the second pushing member 154 becomes greater than the pushing force of the first pushing member 153, and the first tooth 161 of the first engaging member 151 and the second tooth 162 of the second engaging member 152 mesh with each other. Therefore, the locking mechanism 150 is switched to the locked state. The movement of the second pushing member 154 is guided by the guiding mechanism 107 in the direction in which the first pushing member 153 and the second pushing member 154 are arranged. The pushing axis of the second pushing member 154, which is a helical spring, is aligned with the direction in which the first pushing member 153 and the second pushing member 154 are arranged via a tubular retaining element 172. The retaining element 172 does not contact the second engaging member 152.

[0104] Next, the driver rotates the operating lever 156 about the axis 157, causing the distal surface 176 of the cam member 155, which rotates with the operating lever 156, to be aligned with the second pressing member 154, the second engaging member 152, and the first pressing member 153. Similarly, in this state, the distal surface 176 of the cam member 155 presses the second pressing member 154 towards the first pressing member 153. However, the second pressing member 154 moves away from the first engaging member 151, and thus extends to a relatively large extent. As a result, the pushing force of the second pressing member 154 becomes less than the pushing force of the first pressing member 153. Therefore, the second engaging member 152 is lifted by the pushing force of the first pressing member 153, and the first tooth 161 of the first engaging member 151 disengages from the second tooth 162 of the second engaging member 152.

[0105] Since the steering column assembly 100 includes a locking mechanism 150 having the above-described structure, the overall size of the steering column assembly 100 (i.e., the size of the steering column assembly 100 in the radial direction of the inner tube 120) can be reduced, and the flexibility of the attachment position and the flexibility of the steering column assembly 100's posture in the vehicle body can be improved.

[0106] When a secondary collision occurs, the second engaging member 152 moves forward of the vehicle together with the first engaging member 151, simultaneously deforming the shock absorber member 170. As the second engaging member 152 moves further forward of the vehicle, it passes beneath the retaining member 135, as... Figure 12 As shown in the diagram. In this state, even without the pressing force of the second pushing member 154, the first engaging member 151 and the second tooth 162 remain engaged. Therefore, the second engaging member 152 moves together with the first engaging member 151 and the inner tube 120, while deforming the damping member 170, and thus absorbing the impact of secondary collisions. Furthermore, since the locking mechanism 150 and the damping mechanism share components, the total number of components in the steering column assembly 100 can be reduced.

[0107] A third embodiment of the steering column assembly 100 will be described. Components (parts) having effects and functions similar to those of the second embodiment, and having shapes, mechanisms, and structures similar to those of the second embodiment, are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted. The differences from the second embodiment will be mainly described, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0108] Figure 14This is a perspective view of the first engaging member 151 and the first pressing member 153 according to the third embodiment. As shown in the figure, the first engaging member 151 has a sliding portion 164. When the locking mechanism 150 is in the unlocked state where the second engaging member 152 is separated from the first engaging member 151, the sliding portion 164 slides on the first pressing member 153 as the inner tube 120 moves relative to the housing 130. In the third embodiment, the first engaging member 151 has sliding portions 164 located on both sides of the first tooth 161, and each sliding portion 164 has a strip shape and extends in the axial direction.

[0109] The first engaging member 151 has a recess 108 in its end (i.e., the end of the sliding portion 164 on the steering member side, or the negative Y-axis side in the figure) located at the end of the sliding portion 164 on the steering member side. When a portion of the first pushing member 153 enters the recess 108, the recess 108 allows the first pushing member 153 to move toward the inner tube 120 (towards the positive X-axis side in the figure). Figure 15 As shown, when the first pushing member 153 is located in the recess 108 while the locking mechanism 150 is in the unlocked state, the pushing force of the second pushing member 154, which pushes the second engaging member 152 towards the first engaging member 151, becomes greater than the pushing force of the first pushing member 153, and therefore, the first tooth 161 and the second tooth 162 mesh with each other. Thus, the movement of the inner tube 120 relative to the housing 130 can be restricted.

[0110] In the third embodiment, the recess 108 is formed in each of the two sliding portions 164 in a shape corresponding to the first pressing member 153. The recess 108 includes a first recess 181 and a second recess 182. The first recess 181 and the second recess 182 are arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube 120 (the Y-axis direction in the figure). The second recess 182 is formed closer to the steering member than the first recess 181. The width of each first recess 181 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube 120, i.e., the width in the width direction of the first engaging member 151, is smaller than the width of each second recess 182 in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the inner tube 120. As in the second embodiment, the first pressing member 153 has an H-shape as observed in the plan view, and the first pressing member 153 includes a first contact portion 183 and a second contact portion 184. The first contact portion 183 and the second contact portion 184 are arranged axially and contact the sliding portion 164. The second contact portion 184 is located closer to the steering member than the first contact portion 183. The width of each second contact portion 184 is greater than the width of each first recess 181 and less than the width of each second recess 182. The width of each first contact portion 183 is less than the width of each first recess 181. This configuration allows the second contact portion 184 to pass over the first recess 181 without entering it. Therefore, the first contact portion 183 and the second contact portion 184 can enter the first recess 181 and the second recess 182 simultaneously, respectively. Therefore, the first pushing member 153 can move parallel to the first engaging member 151, and the second engaging member 152 can move toward the first engaging member 151 without tilting.

[0111] In the steering column assembly 100 according to the third embodiment, since the first engaging member 151 has a recess 108, the short end of the inner tube 120 is restricted by the components of the locking mechanism 150. Therefore, the total number of components of the steering column assembly 100 can be reduced.

Claims

1. A steering column device, characterized in that, include: Inner tube (120), the inner tube (120) having a tubular shape and configured to hold a column shaft connected to a steering member such that the column shaft is rotatable; A housing (130) configured to hold the inner tube (120) such that the inner tube (120) is movable in the axial direction of the inner tube (120); and A locking mechanism (150) is configured to restrict movement of the inner tube (120) relative to the housing (130) at multiple locations, wherein, The locking mechanism (150) includes: A first engaging member (151) is fixedly disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube (120) and has a plurality of first teeth (161) arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube (120). A second engaging member (152) is fixed relative to the housing (130) in the axial direction. The second engaging member (152) is configured to contact and separate from the first engaging member (151) in the radial direction of the inner tube (120), and the second engaging member (152) has a second tooth (162) that engages with the first tooth (161). A first pressing member (153) is configured to press the second engaging member (152) outward from the inner tube (120) in the radial direction. A second pressing member (154) is arranged in a line with the second engaging member (152) and the first pressing member (153) and is configured to press the second engaging member (152) in a direction opposite to the direction of the pressing force of the first pressing member (153). A cam member (155) configured to rotate about a rotation axis extending in a direction in which the first push member (153) and the second push member (154) are arranged, such that the second push member (154), acting as a follower, moves in the direction in which the first push member (153) and the second push member (154) are arranged, thereby changing the magnitude relationship between the pushing force of the first push member (153) and the pushing force of the second push member (154), and An operating lever (156) is configured to operate the cam member (155). The second engaging member (152) has a retaining groove (167) in its surface facing the first engaging member (151) to retain the first pushing member (153). The second tooth (162) is respectively disposed on both sides of the retaining groove (167).

2. The steering column device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second pushing member (154) is a spring that extends and contracts in the direction in which the first pushing member (153) and the second pushing member (154) are arranged; and The steering column assembly further includes a guide mechanism (107) fixed relative to the housing (130) and configured to guide the extension and retraction of the second push member (154) and the movement of the second push member (154) in the direction in which the first push member (153) and the second push member (154) are arranged.

3. The steering column device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A shock-absorbing member (170) is fixed to the housing (130) and configured to deform and absorb impact when the inner tube (120) is pressed into the housing (130) in a secondary impact, wherein a second connecting member (152) is fixed to the housing (130) via the shock-absorbing member (170) and the second connecting member (152) is movable relative to the shock-absorbing member (170) in the radial direction of the inner tube (120).

4. The steering column device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first engaging member (151) includes a sliding portion (164) configured to slide on the first pushing member (153) when the inner tube (120) moves while the second engaging member (152) is separated from the first engaging member (151); The sliding portion (164) has a recess located in the end of the sliding portion (164) on the side of the steering member, and the recess allows the first pushing member (153) to move toward the inner tube (120) when a portion of the first pushing member (153) enters the recess; and When the first pushing member (153) is located in the recess, the pushing force of the second pushing member (154) is greater than the pushing force of the first pushing member (153).

5. A steering column device, characterized in that, include: Inner tube (120), the inner tube (120) having a tubular shape and configured to hold a column shaft connected to a steering member such that the column shaft is rotatable; A housing (130) configured to hold the inner tube (120) such that the inner tube (120) is movable in the axial direction of the inner tube (120); and A locking mechanism (150) is configured to restrict movement of the inner tube (120) relative to the housing (130) at multiple locations, wherein, The locking mechanism (150) includes: A first engaging member (151) is fixedly disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner tube (120) and has a plurality of first teeth (161) arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube (120). A second engaging member (152) is fixed relative to the housing (130) in the axial direction via a damping member (170). The second engaging member (152) is configured to contact and separate from the first engaging member (151) and has a second tooth (162) that engages with the first tooth (161). A first pressing member (153) is configured to press the second engaging member (152) outward from the inner tube (120). A pressing mechanism, configured to press the second engaging member (152) toward the first engaging member (151) against the pushing force of the first pushing member (153), so that the first tooth (161) and the second tooth (162) mesh with each other, and A retaining member (135) is configured to maintain the second engaging member (152) in a position where the first tooth (161) and the second tooth (162) are engaged with each other when a secondary collision occurs and the second engaging member (152) moves toward a position where the second engaging member (152) is not pressed by the pressing mechanism while deforming the shock-absorbing member (170).

6. The steering column device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The retaining member (135) includes a limiting portion (137) configured to restrict movement of the second engaging member (152) by contacting one end of the second engaging member (152) in the axial direction of the inner tube (120) when the second engaging member (152) is separated from the first engaging member (151); and The first engaging member (151) includes a contact portion that protrudes to a position such that the contact portion contacts the end of the second engaging member (152) opposite to the restricting portion (137) when the second engaging member (152) is separated from the first engaging member (151).

7. The steering column device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The pressing mechanism includes a second pressing member (154) configured to press the second engaging member (152) against the pressing force of the first pressing member (153); The first engaging member (151) includes: A sliding portion (164) configured to slide on the first pressing member (153) when the inner tube (120) moves relative to the housing (130) while the second engaging member (152) is separated from the first engaging member (151), and A recess located in the end of the sliding portion (164) on the side of the steering member, and the recess is configured to allow the first pushing member (153) to move toward the inner tube (120) when a portion of the first pushing member (153) enters the recess; and When the first pushing member (153) is located in the recess, the pushing force of the second pushing member (154) is greater than the pushing force of the first pushing member (153), and the first tooth (161) and the second tooth (162) mesh with each other.

8. The steering column device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first engaging member (151) includes a first recess (181) and a second recess (182), the first recess (181) and the second recess (182) being arranged along the axial direction of the inner tube (120); The width of the first recess (181) in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction is smaller than the width of the second recess (182) in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction, and the second recess (182) is positioned closer to the steering member than the first recess (181). The first pushing member (153) includes a first contact portion (183) and a second contact portion (184), the first contact portion (183) and the second contact portion (184) are arranged along the axial direction and configured to contact the sliding portion (164); The width of the second contact portion (184) is greater than the width of the first recess (181) and less than the width of the second recess (182), and the second contact portion (184) is positioned closer to the steering member than the first contact portion (183); and The width of the first contact portion (183) is smaller than the width of the first recess (181).

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