Steering system

Abstract

The present invention provides a steering system (1), which includes an upper sheath (3), a lower sheath (4), a support member (2), a locking mechanism (5), and a shock absorber (6). The support member (2) supports the lower sheath (4). The locking mechanism (5) switches between the restriction of telescopic adjustment and the termination of the restriction. The upper sheath (3) includes a protruding stopper portion (31), and the stopper portion (31) is configured to define the position of the upper sheath (3) at one end point within the telescopic stroke range. The locking mechanism (5) includes an opening and closing portion (70), and the opening and closing portion (70) is configured to enter the path of the stopper portion (31) when the restriction of telescopic adjustment is terminated, and the opening and closing portion (70) is configured to open the path of the stopper portion (31) when the telescopic adjustment is restricted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a steering system. Background Art

[0002] A steering system including an upper sheath, a lower sheath, and a support member is disclosed (for example, see Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-127062 (JP 2018-127062A)). A steering member is connected to one end of the upper sheath in the column axis direction. The lower sheath is externally fitted to the other end of the upper sheath in a slidable manner. The support member is fixed to the vehicle body and supports the lower sheath. The steering system includes a shock-absorbing mechanism that causes the upper sheath to move relative to the lower sheath during a secondary collision caused by a vehicle collision. The shock-absorbing mechanism absorbs the impact of the secondary collision. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The upper sheath has a stop portion configured to limit further movement of the upper sheath by abutting against a part of the lower sheath when adjusting the telescopic position. When the stop portion interferes with the lower sheath during a secondary collision, the absorption of shock energy is hindered.

[0004] The present invention provides a steering system in which a reduction in shock energy absorption caused by the stop portion can be suppressed.

[0005] The steering system according to an aspect of the present invention includes an upper sheath, a lower sheath, a support member, a locking mechanism, and a shock absorber. The upper sheath is connected with a steering member at one end in the column axis direction. The lower sheath is externally fitted to the other end of the upper sheath in the column axis direction in a slidable manner. The support member is fixed to the vehicle body and supports the lower sheath. The locking mechanism is configured to switch between restriction and termination of restriction of telescopic adjustment of the upper sheath relative to the lower sheath. The shock absorber is configured to absorb shock when the upper sheath moves relative to the lower sheath during a secondary collision. The upper sheath includes a stop portion having a protruding shape and configured to define a position of the upper sheath at one end point of the telescopic stroke range. The locking mechanism includes an opening / closing portion configured to enter a path of the stop portion when the restriction of telescopic adjustment is terminated, and the opening / closing portion is configured to open the path of the stop portion when the telescopic adjustment is restricted.

[0006] In the steering system according to the present invention, a reduction in shock energy absorption caused by the stop portion can be suppressed. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in the drawings:

[0008] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the steering system according to the first embodiment;

[0009] Figure 2 is a top view showing the overall structure of the steering system according to the first embodiment;

[0010] Figure 3 is a side view showing the overall structure of the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment;

[0011] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening / closing part according to the first embodiment;

[0012] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the first stopper member and the second stopper member according to the first embodiment;

[0013] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the first stopper member and the second stopper member according to the first embodiment;

[0014] Figure 7 is a plan view showing the overall structure of the first stopper member and the second stopper member according to the first embodiment;

[0015] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening / closing part according to the first embodiment;

[0016] Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening / closing part according to the second embodiment; and

[0017] Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening / closing part according to the second embodiment. Detailed Embodiments

[0018] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] First Embodiment

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the steering system 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a top view showing the overall structure of the steering system 1 according to the first embodiment. In Figure 2 the illustration of a pair of brackets 21 and 22 of the support member 2 is omitted.

[0021] Structure

[0022] As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in the figure, the steering system 1 includes a support member 2, an upper sheath 3, a lower sheath 4, a locking mechanism 5, and a shock absorber 6. The steering system 1 also includes a steering shaft (not shown) accommodated in the upper sheath 3 and the lower sheath 4. The steering system 1 rotates a steering wheel (not shown) in association with the steering of a steering member (steering wheel: not shown) connected to one end of the steering shaft. The steering wheel and the steering shaft are connected together via an intermediate shaft and a steering operation mechanism.

[0023] Hereinafter, the upper side in the column axis direction X, which is the axial direction of the steering shaft, will be referred to as "upper side XU in the axial direction", and the lower side in the column axis direction X will be referred to as "lower side XL in the axial direction". In this embodiment, the upper side XU in the axial direction can be referred to as the "rear side", and the lower side XL in the axial direction can be referred to as the "front side".

[0024] The support member 2 is fixed to the vehicle body and supports the lower sheath 4. The support member 2 includes brackets 21 and 22 and a pair of beams 23 and 24. The brackets 21 and 22 are arranged to be separated from each other by a predetermined distance in the column axis direction X. The beams 23 and 24 are disposed between the brackets 21 and 22. The brackets 21 and 22 are fixed to the vehicle body. The beams 23 and 24 are fixed to the right and left ends of the brackets 21 and 22.

[0025] The upper sheath 3 is a tubular member to which a steering member is connected via a steering shaft at one end (the end on the upper side XU in the axial direction). A protruding stopper portion 31 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the central portion of the upper sheath 3. The stopper portion 31 regulates the position of the upper sheath 3 at one end point in the telescopic stroke range.

[0026] The lower sheath 4 is a member that is externally fitted to the other end (the end on the lower side XL in the axial direction) of the upper sheath 3 in a slidable manner. The other end of the lower sheath 4 is supported between the other ends of the beams 23 and 24 so as to be rotatable about an inclination axis (not shown). Therefore, the lower sheath 4, the upper sheath 3, and the steering shaft are pivotable about the inclination axis in the inclination direction (substantially the vertical direction). By pivoting the lower sheath 4, the upper sheath 3, and the steering shaft about the inclination axis, the position of the steering member can be adjusted in the inclination direction. Therefore, the steering system 1 has an inclination adjustment function.

[0027] A cutout 41 is formed at one end of the upper portion of the lower sheath 4. The cutout 41 is elongated along the column axis direction X. When the upper sheath 3 slides relative to the lower sheath 4, the stopper portion 31 of the upper sheath 3 moves in the cutout 41 along the column axis direction X.

[0028] A pair of shaft supports 42 and 43 are formed across the cutout 41 at one end of the lower sheath 4. A bolt 51, which is part of the locking mechanism 5, is supported by the shaft supports 42 and 43.

[0029] The locking mechanism 5 switches the restriction and termination of the restriction of the telescopic adjustment of the upper sheath 3 relative to the lower sheath 4. The telescopic adjustment is the adjustment of the position of the steering member in the column axis direction X by extension or retraction involving the sliding of the upper sheath 3 relative to the lower sheath 4. Therefore, the steering shaft can also extend and retract along the column axis direction X. The telescopic stroke range is the movable range of the upper sheath 3 during telescopic adjustment. Specifically, the telescopic stroke range is the range between the upper limit adjustment position of the upper sheath 3 in the column axis direction X and the lower limit adjustment position of the upper sheath 3 in the column axis direction X. When the upper sheath 3 is at the upper limit adjustment position, the entire sheath is extended to the maximum extent. When the upper sheath 3 is at the lower limit adjustment position, the entire sheath is retracted to the maximum extent. When the upper sheath 3 reaches the position (lower limit adjustment position) at one end of the telescopic stroke range, the stopper portion 31 of the upper sheath 3 restricts the further movement of the upper sheath 3 by abutting against a part of the locking mechanism 5.

[0030] The locking mechanism 5 will be described in detail below. Figure 3 is a side view showing the overall structure of the locking mechanism 5 according to the first embodiment. Specifically, Figure 3 is a side view of the lower sheath 4. In Figure 3 the operating lever 52, brackets 21 and 22, etc. are omitted.

[0031] As Figures 1 to 3 shown, the locking mechanism 5 includes a bolt 51, an operating lever 52, a locking plate 53, a leaf spring 54, an engaging portion 55, a pressing portion 56, and an opening / closing portion 70. The operating lever 52 is used to rotate the bolt 51.

[0032] The bolt 51 is a fastening shaft supported by shaft supports 42 and 43, and the bolt 51 rotates in association with the operation of the operating lever 52. When the bolt 51 rotates forward, the shaft supports 42 and 43 are fastened. When the bolt 51 rotates in the reverse direction, the shaft supports 42 and 43 are released. For example, when the operating lever 52 is operated to the locked position, the shaft supports 42 and 43 are fastened to restrict the telescopic adjustment. When the operating lever 52 is operated to the unlocked position, the shaft supports 42 and 43 are released to terminate the restriction of the telescopic adjustment. The opening / closing portion 70 also operates in association with the rotation of the bolt 51, but the details of the opening / closing portion 70 will be described later. Although the details are omitted, the locking mechanism 5 restricts the tilt adjustment when the telescopic adjustment is restricted, and terminates the restriction of the tilt adjustment when the restriction of the telescopic adjustment is terminated.

[0033] The locking plate 53 is an elongated plate and is provided along the column axis direction X while being fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the upper sheath 3. The locking plate 53 has a plurality of lugs 531 formed along the longitudinal direction of the locking plate 53.

[0034] The leaf spring 54 has a substantially H-shaped configuration and is disposed between the locking plate 53 and the engaging portion 55. The leaf spring 54 presses the engaging portion 55 away from the locking plate 53.

[0035] The engaging portion 55 is a member that can engage with the lug 531 of the locking plate 53. Specifically, the engaging portion 55 is superimposed on the locking plate 53. At least one protrusion (not shown) that can engage with the lug 531 is provided on the surface of the engaging portion 55 facing the locking plate 53. Further, a groove (not shown) for attaching a wire 61 described later is formed on the surface of the engaging portion 55 facing the locking plate 53.

[0036] The pressing portion 56 is a member configured to apply a pressing force toward the locking plate 53 to the engaging portion 55. The pressing force of the pressing portion 56 to be applied to the engaging portion 55 varies in association with the operation of the operating lever 52. For example, when the operating lever 52 is operated to the locking position, the pressing force of the pressing portion 56 is greater than the pressing force of the leaf spring 54, and thus the protrusion of the engaging portion 55 engages with the lug 531 of the locking plate 53. The telescopic adjustment is also restricted by such engagement. When the operating lever 52 is operated to the unlocking position, the pressing force of the pressing portion 56 is less than the pressing force of the leaf spring 54, and thus the protrusion of the engaging portion 55 moves away from the lug 531 of the locking plate 53. Therefore, the restriction of the telescopic adjustment is terminated. Since the lugs 531 of the locking plate 53 are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the locking plate 53, the telescopic position of the upper sheath 3 can be adjusted step by step.

[0037] When the upper sheath 3 moves relative to the lower sheath 4 during a secondary collision, the shock absorber 6 absorbs the shock. As Figure 3 shown, the shock absorber 6 includes a locking plate 53, a leaf spring 54, an engaging portion 55, a pressing portion 56, and a wire 61.

[0038] The wire 61 is a member for absorbing the shock of a secondary collision. The wire 61 is formed by bending a metal wire. Specifically, the wire 61 has a pair of end portions 62 and 63 and an intermediate portion 64 located between the two end portions 62 and 63. The end portions 62 and 63 are linearly formed in parallel and are fixed to the lower sheath 4.

[0039] The middle portion 64 is a bent portion and is partially attached to the groove of the engaging portion 55. Specifically, the middle portion 64 is bent into a substantially W-shaped form, and the central portion of the middle portion 64 is attached to the groove of the engaging portion 55. In the event of a secondary collision, the upper sheath 3 enters the lower sheath 4 (moves downward in the axial direction XL). At this time, telescopic adjustment is restricted, but the upper sheath 3 moves overcoming this restriction due to the impact of the secondary collision. During this movement, the protrusion of the engaging portion 55 remains engaged with the lug 531 of the locking plate 53, and the engaging portion 55 also moves downward in the axial direction XL in association with the movement of the upper sheath 3 while deforming the wire 61. The impact of the secondary collision is absorbed by the deformation of the wire 61.

[0040] Next, the opening / closing portion 70 will be described in detail. The opening / closing portion 70 enters the path of the stopper portion 31 when the restriction of telescopic adjustment is terminated, and opens the path of the stopper portion 31 when the telescopic adjustment is restricted.

[0041] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening / closing portion 70 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 Illustrates the opening / closing portion 70 in a state where telescopic adjustment is restricted. As Figure 4 shown, the opening / closing portion 70 includes a bolt 51, a pair of stopper members 71 and 72, and a pressing member 73.

[0042] Among the stopper members 71 and 72, the first stopper member 71 is fitted to the bolt 51 and rotates together with the bolt 51. The second stopper member 72 among the stopper members 71 and 72 is slidably attached to the bolt 51. Specifically, the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 are arranged above the upper sheath 3 around the bolt 51 such that the first stopper member 71 is closer to the operating lever 52 than the second stopper member 72.

[0043] The first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 will be described in detail. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a plane showing the overall structure of the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a perspective view observed from the lower side XL in the axial direction. Figure 6 is a perspective view observed from the upper side XU in the axial direction. Figure 7 is a plane observed from the upper side XU in the axial direction along the column axis direction X.

[0044] As shown in Figures 5 to 7 FIG. 1, the first stopper member 71 is a resin or metal member including a first body 711, a first rib 712, and a plurality of first protrusions 713.

[0045] The first body 711 is a tubular portion, and a first through hole 714 is formed at the central portion of the first body 711 and extends through the first body 711 in a direction perpendicular to the column axis direction X. The first through hole 714 has an elliptical shape when viewed in the axial direction, and a bolt 51 is fitted into the first through hole 714. Accordingly, the first body 711 is fixed to the bolt 51. Thus, the first stopper member 71 rotates in association with the rotation of the bolt 51 without changing the relative positional relationship with the bolt 51 in the axial direction.

[0046] The first rib 712 protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface of the first body 711 and extends in the circumferential direction. The first rib 712 is provided only on the upper half of the periphery of the first body 711.

[0047] The first protrusions 713 protrude from the main surface of the first rib 712 toward the second stopper member 72. The first protrusions 713 are arranged at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, an exemplary case where three first protrusions 713 are provided is shown, but at least one first protrusion 713 may be provided. Each first protrusion 713 has a tapered shape. A pair of outer surfaces 713a and 713b of each first protrusion 713 that are opposite to each other in the circumferential direction have a flat shape or a smoothly curved shape.

[0048] The second stopper member 72 is a resin or metal member including a second body 721, a second rib 722, a plurality of second protrusions 723, a guiding portion 724, and a groove 725.

[0049] The second body 721 is a tubular portion, and a second through hole 726 is formed at the central portion of the second body 721 and extends through the second body 721 in a direction perpendicular to the column axis direction X. The second through hole 726 has a circular shape when viewed in the axial direction, and the bolt 51 is inserted through the second through hole 726 to be rotatable and axially slidable. A base portion 727 is provided at the lower portion of the second body 721 to protrude outward. A pair of outer surfaces 727a and 727b of the base portion 727 that are opposite to each other in the column axis direction X are flat surfaces parallel to a plane orthogonal to the column axis direction X.

[0050] As shown in Figure 4As shown in the figure, the base 727 engages with the shaft supports 42 and 43 of the lower sheath 4, specifically with the shaft support 43 that is farther from the operating lever 52. Specifically, the shaft support 43 has a first receiving recess 431 that slidably receives the base 727. A pair of inner surfaces of the first receiving recess 431 that face each other in the column axis direction X are flat surfaces parallel to a plane orthogonal to the column axis direction X. The outer surfaces 727a and 727b of the base 727 are capable of abutting against the inner surfaces of the first receiving recess 431. When the outer surfaces 727a and 727b of the base 727 abut against the inner surfaces of the first receiving recess 431, the rotation of the second stopper member 72 is restricted. When the second stopper member 72 slides in the axial direction of the bolt 51, the sliding is guided by the inner surfaces of the first receiving recess 431.

[0051] As Figures 5 to 7 shown in the figure, the second rib 722 projects outward from the outer peripheral surface of the second body 721 and extends in the circumferential direction. The second rib 722 is provided at a portion of the second body 721 other than the lower end portion.

[0052] The second protrusions 723 project from the main surface of the second rib 722 near the first stopper member 71. The second protrusions 723 are arranged at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction. The portion between a pair of adjacent second protrusions 723 can be regarded as a recess 728. The first protrusion 713 engages with each recess 728. This embodiment is directed to an exemplary case where three second protrusions 723 are provided. Therefore, two recesses 728 are provided. That is, one first protrusion 713 engages with each recess 728, and the remaining first protrusion 713 is not positioned in the recess 728. The remaining first protrusion 713 engages with the second protrusion 723 located at one end among the plurality of second protrusions 723. At least one recess 728 can be provided.

[0053] Each second protrusion 723 has a tapered shape. A pair of outer surfaces 723a and 723b of each second protrusion 723 that face each other in the circumferential direction have a planar shape or a smoothly curved shape. When the first stopper member 71 rotates, each first protrusion 713 of the first stopper member 71 rotates while abutting against the outer surface 723a of the second protrusion 723. At this time, since each outer surface 723a has a planar shape or a smoothly curved shape, the rotation is smooth.

[0054] The guiding portion 724 is a plate-like portion protruding from the lower end portion of the second main body 721 toward the first stopper member 71. The first main body 711 of the first stopper member 71 is disposed on the upper surface of the guiding portion 724. The upper surface of the guiding portion 724 is a smooth concave surface and guides the rotation of the first main body 711. A pair of outer surfaces 724a and 724b of the guiding portion 724 that face each other in the column axis direction X are flat surfaces parallel to a plane orthogonal to the column axis direction X.

[0055] As Figure 4 shown, the guiding portion 724 engages with the shaft support members 42 and 43 of the lower sheath 4 that are closer to the operating rod 52. Specifically, the shaft support member 42 has a second receiving recess 421 that slidably receives the guiding portion 724. A pair of inner surfaces of the second receiving recess 421 that face each other in the column axis direction X are flat surfaces parallel to a plane orthogonal to the column axis direction X. The outer surfaces 724a and 724b of the guiding portion 724 are capable of abutting against the inner surfaces of the second receiving recess 421. When the outer surfaces 724a and 724b of the guiding portion 724 abut against the inner surfaces of the second receiving recess 421, the rotation of the second stopper member 72 is restricted. When the second stopper member 72 slides in the axial direction of the bolt 51, the sliding is guided by the inner surface of the second receiving recess 421.

[0056] A groove 725 is formed on the lower surface of the second main body 721 and extends along the column axis direction X. The groove 725 is provided between the base portion 727 and the guiding portion 724 and extends through the second main body 721 along the column axis direction X. In a plan view, the groove 725 is shaped to be larger than the stopper portion 31 of the upper sheath 3. In a state where the groove 725 enters the path L1 of the stopper portion 31, the stopper portion 31 can pass through the groove 725.

[0057] As Figure 4 shown, the pressing member 73 presses the second stopper member 72 with a force in the direction in which the second stopper member 72 approaches the first stopper member 71. Specifically, the pressing member 73 is a coil spring through which the bolt 51 is inserted. The pressing member 73 is disposed between the shaft support member 43 and the second stopper member 72 and presses the second stopper member 72 with a force in the direction in which the second stopper member 72 moves away from the shaft support member 43. That is, the second stopper member 72 is pressed by the pressing member 73 with a force in the direction in which the second stopper member 72 approaches the first stopper member 71. The pressing member 73 can be a spring other than a coil spring or can be an elastic member such as rubber.

[0058] Operation

[0059] Next, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 8Describe the operation of the opening / closing portion 70. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening / closing portion 70 according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 Illustrates the opening / closing portion 70 in a state where the restriction of telescopic adjustment is terminated.

[0060] In the state where, as shown in Figure 4 the telescopic adjustment is restricted, a part of the second stopper member 72 enters the first stopper member 71. Specifically, the first protrusion 713 of the first stopper member 71 is positioned in the recess 728 of the second stopper member 72. At this time, the groove 725 of the second stopper member 72 is positioned on the path L1 of the stopper portion 31 of the upper sheath 3. In this state, even if the upper sheath 3 moves downward in the axial direction XL into the lower sheath 4 in a secondary collision event, the stopper portion 31 passes through the groove 725. Therefore, the stopper portion 31 does not interfere with the opening / closing portion 70.

[0061] The operating lever 52 is operated to terminate the Figure 4 restriction of the telescopic adjustment shown in. Specifically, when the operating lever 52 is operated and the bolt 51 rotates in the direction of arrow Y1, the first stopper member 71 rotates in the same direction. By this rotation, the first protrusion 713 also rotates. At this time, each first protrusion 713 slides along an outer surface 723a of each second protrusion 723 of the second stopper member 72 to push the second stopper member 72 against the pressing force of the pressing member 73. By this pushing, the second stopper member 72 slides in the axial direction of the bolt 51. Each first protrusion 713 moves away from each recess 728 of the second stopper member 72. As shown in Figure 8 the first protrusion 713 finally disengages from the recess 728, and the distal end surface of the first protrusion 713 abuts against the distal end surface of the second protrusion 723. In this state, the groove 725 retracts from the path L1 of the stopper portion 31, and the guiding portion 724 enters the path L1. In this state, the restriction of the telescopic adjustment is terminated. Therefore, telescopic adjustment can be performed. When the upper sheath 3 reaches a position (lower limit adjustment position) at one end point of the telescopic stroke range during telescopic adjustment, the stopper portion 31 abuts against the guiding portion 724 (a part of the locking mechanism 5) to restrict further movement of the upper sheath 3.

[0062] In Figure 8In the state shown in [Figure 0], the operating lever 52 is operated to restrict telescopic adjustment. Specifically, when the operating lever 52 is operated and the bolt 51 rotates in the direction of arrow Y2, the first stopper member 71 rotates in the same direction. By this rotation, the first protrusion 713 also rotates. At this time, the second stopper member 72 is pushed toward the first stopper member 71 by the pushing force of the pushing member 73. Therefore, the second stopper member 72 moves toward the first stopper member 71 while the outer surface 723a of each second protrusion 723 slides along each first protrusion 713. Each first protrusion 713 is finally positioned in each recess 728 of the second stopper member 72, thereby reaching Figure 4 the state shown in [Figure 1].

[0063] Effects, etc.

[0064] According to the embodiment described above, when the restriction of telescopic adjustment is terminated, the opening / closing part 70 enters the path of the stopper part 31. Therefore, during telescopic adjustment, the stopper part 31 can firmly abut against the opening / closing part 70. If the stopper part 31 interferes with the opening / closing part 70 during a secondary collision, the shock energy absorption performed by the shock absorber 6 is reduced. In this embodiment, the opening / closing part 70 opens the path of the stopper part 31 when the telescopic adjustment is restricted. Therefore, even if the lower sheath 4 moves during a secondary collision, the stopper part 31 does not interfere with the opening / closing part 70. Therefore, a reduction in shock energy absorption caused by the stopper part 31 can be suppressed. When a reduction in shock energy absorption can be suppressed, it is easier to control the absorption of the shock of the secondary collision.

[0065] The opening / closing part 70 opens or closes the path L1 of the stopper part 31 in association with the bolt 51 configured to restrict telescopic adjustment. Therefore, the operation of restricting telescopic adjustment and the operation of opening or closing the opening / closing part 70 can be performed by the common rotation of the bolt 51. Therefore, a dedicated power mechanism is not required to perform the opening or closing operation of the opening / closing part 70. Therefore, the number of components can be reduced, and the size can be reduced.

[0066] The opening / closing part 70 has stopper members 71 and 72 configured to move into contact with or away from each other in the axial direction of the bolt 51 as the bolt 51 rotates. Therefore, the path L1 of the stopper part 31 can be opened or closed in association with the operation of moving the stopper members 71 and 72 into contact with or away from each other. That is, the path L1 of the stopper part 31 can be opened or closed with a simple structure.

[0067] The pressing member 73 presses the second stopper member 72 with a force in a direction approaching the first stopper member 71. Accordingly, the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 can be brought closer to each other. Accordingly, the operation of opening or closing the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 can be smoothly performed in association with the rotation of the bolt 51.

[0068] When the telescopic adjustment is restricted, the second stopper member 72 is moved to cause the recess 728 of the second stopper member 72 and the first protrusion 713 of the first stopper member 71 to engage with each other, and the groove 725 is positioned on the path L1 of the stopper portion 31, thereby opening the path L1. In this state, the stopper portion 31 can pass through the groove 725.

[0069] When the restriction of the telescopic adjustment is terminated, the second stopper member 72 is moved to cause the recess 728 and the first protrusion 713 to move away from each other, the groove 725 retreats from the path L1 of the stopper portion 31, and the guiding portion 724 of the second stopper member 72 enters the path L1. In this state, the stopper portion 31 cannot pass through the groove 725.

[0070] Accordingly, the opening and closing operation of the opening and closing portion 70 is achieved by moving the groove 725 toward and away from the path L1 in association with the relative operation between the first protrusion 713 of the first stopper member 71 and the recess 728 of the second stopper member 72. That is, the opening and closing operation of the opening and closing portion 70 can be achieved with a simple structure in which the groove 725 slides in the axial direction of the bolt 51.

[0071] The second stopper member 72 has a plurality of recesses 728, and the first stopper member 71 has a plurality of first protrusions 713 configured to engage with the recesses 728. Accordingly, a force is transmitted between the recess 728 and the first protrusion 713. Accordingly, the relative operation between the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 can be stably performed.

[0072] Second Embodiment

[0073] The first embodiment is directed to an exemplary opening and closing portion 70 configured to open or close the path L1 by rotating the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 relative to each other. The second embodiment is directed to an opening and closing portion 70a configured to open or close the path L1 by moving the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a into contact with or away from each other.

[0074] Structure

[0075] Figure 9 and Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of the opening and closing portion 70a according to the second embodiment.Figure 9 The opening and closing portion 70a is shown in the figure in a state where telescopic adjustment is restricted. Figure 10 The opening and closing portion 70a is illustrated in a state where the limitation of the telescopic adjustment is terminated. In the second embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of these components may be omitted.

[0076] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown in FIG. 5 , the opening and closing portion 70 a includes a bolt 51 , a pair of stopper members 71 a and 72 a , a pair of urging members 73 a and 73 b , and a driving member 90 a .

[0077] The stopper members 71a and 72a are attached to the bolt 51 in a slidable manner. The first stopper member 71a of the stopper members 71a and 72a is a block-shaped member, and the bolt 51 extends through the center of the first stopper member 71a. The first stopper member 71a is accommodated in the second accommodation recess 421 of the shaft support 42, and is guided in the axial direction of the bolt 51 by the inner surface of the second accommodation recess 421. A first cutout 719a is formed at the end of the first stopper member 71a close to the second stopper member 72a, and the first cutout 719a is located on the lower side XL in the axial direction.

[0078] The second stopper member 72a of the stopper members 71a and 72a is a block-shaped member, and the bolt 51 extends through the center of the second stopper member 72a. The second stopper member 72a is accommodated in the first accommodation recess 431 of the shaft support 43, and is guided by the inner surface of the first accommodation recess 431 in the axial direction of the bolt 51. A second cutout 729a is formed at the end of the second stopper member 72a close to the first stopper member 71a, and the second cutout 729a is located on the lower side XL in the axial direction.

[0079] The pushing members 73a and 73b are coil springs through which the bolt 51 is inserted. The first pushing member 73a of the pushing members 73a and 73b pushes the first stopper member 71a with a force in a direction in which the first stopper member 71a approaches the second stopper member 72a. The first pushing member 73a is placed between the shaft support 42 and the first stopper member 71a, and pushes the first stopper member 71a with a force in a direction in which the first stopper member 71a moves away from the shaft support 42. That is, the first stopper member 71a is pushed by the first pushing member 73a with a force in a direction in which the first stopper member 71a approaches the second stopper member 72a.

[0080] The second pushing member 73b of the pushing members 73a and 73b pushes the second stopper member 72a with a force in the direction in which the second stopper member 72a approaches the first stopper member 71a. The second pushing member 73b is placed between the shaft support 43 and the second stopper member 72a, and pushes the second stopper member 72a with a force in the direction in which the second stopper member 72a moves away from the shaft support 43. That is, the second stopper member 72a is pushed by the second pushing member 73b with a force in the direction in which the second stopper member 72a approaches the first stopper member 71a.

[0081] The driving member 90a is driven as the bolt 51 rotates so that the first stop member 71a and the second stop member 72a move away from each other. Specifically, the driving member 90a is a block-shaped member, and the bolt 51 extends through the center of the driving member 90a when it is fitted to the driving member 90a. Therefore, the driving member 90a rotates in association with the rotation of the bolt 51. The driving member 90a is disposed between the first stop member 71a and the second stop member 72a. Specifically, the driving member 90a is disposed between the first cutout 719a of the first stop member 71a and the second cutout 729a of the second stop member 72a. The end 91a of the driving member 90a on the side XU in the axial direction has a tapered shape. As shown in FIG. Figure 9 In the state shown in FIG. 1 , in which the telescopic adjustment is limited, the drive member 90a is placed between the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a to keep the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a away from each other. Figure 10 In the state shown in FIG. 1 , in which the limitation of the telescopic adjustment is terminated, the driving member 90a is accommodated between the first notch 719a of the first stopper member 71a and the second notch 729a of the second stopper member 72a. In this state, the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a are approached and abutted against each other by the urging force of the urging members 73a and 73b.

[0082] operate

[0083] Next, the operation of the opening and closing portion 70a will be described. Figure 9As shown in [Fig.], in the state where the telescopic adjustment is restricted, the drive member 90a is placed between the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a to keep the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a apart from each other. At this time, both the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a are retracted from the path L1 of the stopper portion 31 of the upper sheath 3. The drive member 90a is also retracted from the path L1. In this state, even if the upper sheath 3 moves downward in the axial direction XL and enters the lower sheath 4 during a secondary collision event, the stopper portion 31 passes through the space between the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a below the drive member 90a. That is, the stopper portion 31 does not interfere with the opening / closing portion 70a.

[0084] Operate the operating lever 52 to terminate Figure 9 the restriction on telescopic adjustment shown in [Fig.]. Specifically, when the operating lever 52 is operated and the bolt 51 rotates in the direction of arrow Y1, the drive member 90a rotates in the same direction. By this rotation, the drive member 90a gradually retracts from the space between the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a. At this time, the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a gradually approach each other by the pushing force of the pushing members 73a and 73b.

[0085] When as Figure 10 shown in [Fig.], the drive member 90a is accommodated between the first cutout 719a of the first stopper member 71a and the second cutout 729a of the second stopper member 72a, the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a finally come into contact with each other. In this state, the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a close the path L1. In this state, the restriction on telescopic adjustment is terminated. Therefore, telescopic adjustment can be performed. When the upper sheath 3 reaches a position (lower limit adjustment position) at one end of the telescopic stroke range during telescopic adjustment, the stopper portion 31 abuts against at least one of the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a, thereby restricting further movement of the upper sheath 3.

[0086] In Figure 10 the state shown in [Fig.], operate the operating lever 52 to restrict telescopic adjustment. Specifically, when the operating lever 52 is operated and the bolt 51 rotates in the direction of arrow Y2, the drive member 90a rotates in the same direction. By this rotation, the end portion 91a of the drive member 90a enters the space between the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a. Since the end portion 91a of the drive member 90a has a tapered shape, the end portion 91a gradually expands the space between the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a as it rotates, and thus finally reaches Figure 9 the state shown in [Fig.].

[0087] Effects, etc.

[0088] As described above, the drive member 90a is driven as the bolt 51 rotates, so that the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a move away from each other. Therefore, the opening operation of the opening / closing portion 70a can be easily achieved based on the rotation of the bolt 51.

[0089] An exemplary case where the drive member 90a rotates as the bolt 51 rotates is described, but the drive member 90a can be driven in any manner as the bolt 51 rotates, as long as the first stopper member 71a and the second stopper member 72a move away from each other.

[0090] Others

[0091] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

[0092] For example, the first embodiment is directed to an exemplary case where the first stopper member 71 is fixed to the bolt 51 and the second stopper member 72 is slidably attached to the bolt 51. The first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 can be slidably attached to the bolt 51. That is, both the first stopper member 71 and the second stopper member 72 can move to switch between the restriction of the telescopic adjustment and the termination of the restriction. In this case, a pressing member can be provided between the first stopper member 71 and the shaft support member 42 to press the first stopper member 71 with a force in the direction in which the first stopper member 71 moves away from the shaft support member 42.

[0093] The first embodiment and the second embodiment are directed to exemplary cases where the opening / closing portion 70 or 70a opens or closes the path L1 of the stopper portion 31 in association with the bolt 51 configured to restrict the telescopic adjustment. A dedicated power mechanism can be provided to perform the opening or closing operation of the opening / closing portion.

[0094] Without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the present invention encompasses embodiments obtained by various modifications of the embodiments that can be conceived by those skilled in the art, and embodiments obtained by arbitrarily combining the constituent elements and functions of the embodiments and the modification examples.

Claims

1. A steering system (1), characterized in that Comprising: an upper sheath (3) which is connected with a steering member at one end in the direction of the column axis; a lower sheath (4) which is externally fitted to the other end of the upper sheath (3) in the direction of the column axis in a slidable manner; a support member (2) which is fixed to the vehicle body and supports the lower sheath (4); a locking mechanism (5) which is configured to switch between restriction of telescopic adjustment of the upper sheath (3) relative to the lower sheath (4) and termination of the restriction; and a shock absorber (6) which is configured to absorb an impact when the upper sheath (3) moves relative to the lower sheath (4) during a secondary collision, wherein, the upper sheath (3) includes a stop portion (31) which has a protruding shape and is configured to define a position of the upper sheath (3) at one end point within the telescopic stroke range, and the locking mechanism (5) includes an opening / closing portion (70) which is configured to enter a path of the stop portion (31) when the restriction of the telescopic adjustment is terminated and is configured to open the path of the stop portion (31) when the telescopic adjustment is restricted, the locking mechanism (5) includes a bolt (51) which is configured to fasten the lower sheath (4) to be in close contact with the upper sheath (3) to restrict the telescopic adjustment; and the opening / closing portion (70) can be opened and closed in association with the bolt (51), the opening / closing portion (70) includes a pair of stop member elements (71, 72) which are configured to move along the axial direction of the bolt (51) to contact or separate from each other as the bolt (51) rotates.

2. The steering system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening / closing portion (70) includes a pressing member which is configured to press at least one of the stop member elements (71, 72) with a force in a direction in which the stop member elements (71, 72) approach each other.

3. The steering system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: one of the stop member elements (71, 72) has a recess; the other of the stop member elements (71, 72) has a protrusion configured to engage with the recess and a groove (725) extending in the direction of the column axis; and when the telescopic adjustment is restricted, the recess and the protrusion are caused to engage with each other by moving at least one of the stop member elements (71, 72), and the groove (725) is positioned on the path of the stop portion (31) to open the path, and when the restriction of the telescopic adjustment is terminated, the recess and the protrusion are caused to move away from each other by moving at least one of the stop member elements (71, 72), the groove (725) exits from the path of the stop portion (31), and a part of the other of the stop member elements enters the path.

4. The steering system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that The opening and closing portion (70) includes a drive member (90a) that is driven as the bolt (51) rotates to move the stopper members (71, 72) away from each other.

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