Door button holding structure

Abstract

A button holding structure of a vehicle door capable of suppressing damage to an indicator button is provided. A button holding structure (1) of a vehicle door (8) is provided to a button insertion hole (87) provided through a vehicle door interior (80), and guides an indicator button (7) in an upward convex shape inserted into the button insertion hole (87) from below when the indicator button (7) is raised and lowered. The button holding structure (1) has a guide portion (30, 230) that guides the indicator button (7) up and down, and a lead-in portion (40, 240) provided at a position lower than the guide portion (30, 230) and that leads the indicator button (7) toward the guide portion (30, 230). The lead-in portion (40, 240) includes a lead-in curved surface (40A) that is a curved surface that surrounds the indicator button (7) around an axis (X1) of the button insertion hole (87) and that expands in an inverted conical shape downward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a button retention structure for vehicle doors. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-227251 discloses an example of a conventional door button retaining structure. This button retaining structure is provided in a button insertion hole that extends through the door trim. The button retaining structure guides an upwardly convex indicator button, which is inserted into the button insertion hole from below, as it rises and falls.

[0003] The button retains a structure with a guide section and an inlet section. The guide section includes a chamfered ring that is embedded in the button's through-hole. The guide section guides the indicator button up and down via the chamfered ring. The inlet section includes multiple ribs integrally formed with the door trim and is positioned below the guide section. The inner edges of each rib are inclined toward the chamfered ring of the guide section.

[0004] When the indicator button is inserted into the button through hole, the guide part guides the indicator button to the cut edge ring of the guide part through the inner side of each rib.

[0005] However, in the aforementioned conventional door button retention structure, when the indicator button is inserted into the button insertion hole, the inner side of each rib presses the indicator button locally, which can easily damage the indicator button. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, providing a door button retaining structure capable of suppressing damage to the indicator button is a non-limiting issue of this embodiment. This issue is achieved through the demonstration of technical solution 1. Further developments of this embodiment are described in dependent technical solutions.

[0007] The button retaining structure of this example door is provided in a button insertion hole that extends through the door trim, and guides the indicator button as it rises and falls when inserted into the button insertion hole from below.

[0008] The door button retaining structure includes:

[0009] A guide section that guides the indicator button up and down; and

[0010] An inlet section is positioned below the guide section and directs the indicator button toward the guide section.

[0011] The inlet portion includes an inlet surface, which is a surface that surrounds the indicator button around the axis of the button insertion hole and extends downward in an inverted cone shape.

[0012] In the button retention structure of the door in this example, when the indicator button is inserted into the button insertion hole, the guide portion guides the indicator button to the guide portion through the guide surface. At this time, the guide surface abuts against the indicator button in a surface manner, thus suppressing localized pressing of the indicator button.

[0013] Therefore, the button retention structure of the door in this example can suppress damage to the indicator button. As a result, the button retention structure can also prevent a decrease in the aesthetics of the vehicle interior.

[0014] In another embodiment of this example, it is preferable that the guide surface surrounds the indicator button within a range exceeding 180° around the axis. In this case, the guide surface abuts against the indicator button with a larger surface area, thus further suppressing localized pressing of the indicator button.

[0015] In another embodiment of this example, it is preferable that the guide portion and the inlet portion are integrally formed in the door trim. In this case, the work of assembling the door button retaining structure into the door trim can be simplified.

[0016] In another embodiment of this demonstration, it is preferable that the guide portion and the inlet portion are integrally fixed to the door trim. In this case, the process of assembling the door button retaining structure to the door trim can be simplified.

[0017] Preferably, the button retaining structure of the vehicle door in this embodiment includes: a first member having a guide portion and an inlet portion, and abutting against the door trim from below; and a second member abutting against the door trim from above and clamping the door trim together with the first member, and covering the outer periphery of the button insertion hole. In this case, the first and second members can be simplified, and the shape of the periphery of the button insertion hole in the door trim can be simplified.

[0018] In another embodiment of this embodiment, it is preferred that one of the first and second components has a plurality of engaging portions extending along an axis toward the other of the first and second components, and capable of elastic deformation in a radially inward direction toward the axis. Preferably, a claw is formed at the front end of each engaging portion, protruding radially outward and engaging with the other of the first and second components, thereby restricting separation of the first and second components. Furthermore, it is preferred that the elastic deformation of each engaging portion in the radially inward direction is restricted by an indicator button inserted into a button through-hole. In this case, the plurality of engaging portions are restricted by the indicator button, making it difficult for the claw to disengage, thus reliably maintaining the state in which the first and second components clamp the door trim.

[0019] In another embodiment of this example, it is preferable that the door trim has a first recess and a second recess recessed radially outward from the outer periphery of the button insertion hole, respectively, towards the axis. Preferably, the first and second recesses are non-point-symmetrical about the axis. Preferably, the second member has a first protrusion that engages with the first recess and a second protrusion that engages with the second recess. Preferably, one of the first and second members has a third protrusion protruding along the axis toward the other of the first and second members. Furthermore, it is preferable that the other of the first and second members has a third recess for engaging with the third protrusion. In this case, even if the shape of the second member differs when used for the left door and when used for the right door, misassembly can be suppressed through the engagement of the first and third recesses with the first and third protrusions.

[0020] In another embodiment of this example, it is preferred that the guide includes a pressing piece that extends along the axis and abuts against the indicator button, and is capable of elastic deformation in a radially outward direction from the axis. In this case, the guide can smoothly guide the indicator button while suppressing its wobble by pressing the pressing piece.

[0021] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention should be apparent from the embodiments disclosed in the following description and drawings, the illustrations disclosed in the drawings, and the concept of the invention disclosed in the specification and the drawings as a whole. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a car door that uses the button retention structure of Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the button holding structure of Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the button holding structure of Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the door trim, frame, and retaining member integrally formed with guide and guide portions of the button retaining structure of Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view showing the retaining member, door trim, and frame of the button retaining structure in Embodiment 1.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a lower surface view showing the button holding structure of Embodiment 1.

[0028] Figure 7 This refers to the button holding structure of Embodiment 1. Figure 6 A sectional view of section AA.

[0029] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view showing the frame of the button holding structure of Embodiment 2, as well as the guide portion and the inlet portion integrally formed in the door trim.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing that the button retaining structure of Embodiment 2 is integrally formed in the guide portion and the inlet portion of the door interior.

[0031] Figure 10 The button holding structure of embodiment 2 is the same as Figure 7 Same sectional view.

[0032] Figure 11 This is an exploded perspective view showing the door interior trim with the button retaining structure of Embodiment 3 and the retaining member integrally formed with a guide portion and an inlet portion.

[0033] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view of the door interior trim, showing that the button retaining structure of Embodiment 3 is integrally formed with two engaging portions and four abutting protrusions.

[0034] Figure 13 The button holding structure of embodiment 3 is the same as Figure 7 Same sectional view.

[0035] Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing a modified example of the button retaining structure.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0037] 8 doors

[0038] Buttons 1, 2, and 3 maintain their structure.

[0039] 80, 380 door interior

[0040] 87, 387 push-button insertion holes

[0041] 7. Indicator Button

[0042] 30, 230 Guidance Department

[0043] 40, 240 Import Section

[0044] The axis of the X1 button through hole

[0045] Import surfaces for 40A, 240A, and 40C

[0046] 10 First component (retaining element)

[0047] 20 Second component (border)

[0048] More than 25 locking parts

[0049] 25A Claw

[0050] 81 First recess

[0051] 82 Second recess

[0052] 13 Third recess

[0053] 21 First convex part

[0054] 22 Second convex part

[0055] 23 The third convex part

[0056] 31, 231 Press Tablets. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1 Examples 1 to 3 of this demonstration will be described below.

[0058] (Example 1)

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, the door button holding structure 1 of Embodiment 1 is applied to the door 8 of a vehicle such as a motor vehicle. The door 8 is a side door that is opened and closed through an opening 9 provided on the side of the vehicle body. In the following description, the case where the door 8 is a left-side side door will be described.

[0060] <Overview of the door and button retention structure>

[0061] The door 8 includes an outer door panel 8A and an inner door panel 8B made of steel, as well as a door trim 80 made of resin. The inner door panel 8B is joined to the outer door panel 8A from the inside of the vehicle. The upper parts of the outer door panel 8A and the inner door panel 8B form the window frame of the door 8.

[0062] The door trim 80 is assembled from the inside of the vehicle onto the lower part of the inner door panel 8B. The door trim 80 forms part of the exterior surface of the vehicle interior. The upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 extends from the front end of the door 8 to the rear end along the lower edge of the window frame of the door 8.

[0063] It should be noted that, Figure 2 The forward / backward, up / down, and inward / outward directions shown in subsequent diagrams are all consistent with... Figure 1 The corresponding display.

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, a vehicle lock device 90 is provided at the rear end of the door 8. The vehicle lock device 90 exposes the entrance 91 from the rear end face of the door 8. When the vehicle lock device 90 moves with the opening and closing of the door 8, a roughly "U"-shaped striker 99 fixed to the vehicle body enters the entrance 91.

[0065] An outer door handle 5 is provided on the outer surface of the door 8, positioned above the door lock device 90. Although not shown in the figure, an inner door handle is provided on the inner surface of the door 8. The outer door handle 5 and the inner door handle are connected to the door lock device 90 via a transmission rod and a transmission cable (not shown), respectively.

[0066] Although not shown in the figures, the vehicle locking device 90 has a known latching mechanism that switches between a latched state and an unlocked state. The latching mechanism switches to the latched state when the door 8 is closed and the striker 99 enters the inlet 91, and retains the striker 99. On the other hand, the latching mechanism switches to the unlocked state when the user opens the outer door handle 5 or the inner door handle (not shown), and allows the striker 99 to disengage from the inlet 91.

[0067] Furthermore, although not shown in the figure, the vehicle locking device 90 has a known locking / unlocking mechanism that switches between a locked state and an unlocked state via an electric actuator. When the user locks the vehicle using a remote key (not shown) or similar device, the electric actuator is activated, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism to the locked state and preventing the latching mechanism from switching from the latched state to the unlocked state. On the other hand, when the user unlocks the vehicle using a remote key (not shown) or similar device, the electric actuator is activated, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism to the unlocked state and allowing the latching mechanism to switch from the latched state to the unlocked state.

[0068] The vehicle lock device 90 is provided with a link (not shown) that is linked to the locking and unlocking mechanism. The link (not shown) is connected to the lower end of a metal indicator rod 7A that extends in the vertical direction.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown, a resin-molded indicator button 7 is embedded in the upper end of the indicator rod 7A. The indicator button 7 has an upward convex shape. The upper part of the indicator button 7 is hemispherical, and the lower part of the hemispherical part is cylindrical. The surface of the indicator button 7 is, for example, a mirror surface, a frosted surface, an embossed surface, or other surfaces with high aesthetic appeal.

[0070] like Figure 1 As shown, the button holding structure 1 is located on the rear end side of the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80. Figures 2-7 The illustration only shows the periphery of the button holding structure 1 of the door trim 80. The upper wall 80U of the door trim 80 slopes downward from the outside of the vehicle toward the inside.

[0071] The door interior trim 80 is a laminate comprising a rigid resin layer 80A, an elastic foam layer 80B laminated on the surface of the rigid resin layer 80A, and a skin layer 80C covering the elastic foam layer 80B to form the exterior surface.

[0072] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, a button insertion hole 87 is provided through the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80. The button insertion hole 87 is a circular hole centered on an axis X1 extending in the vertical direction. When viewed from a direction orthogonal to the inclined upper wall portion 80U, the button insertion hole 87 is elliptical in shape.

[0073] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the button retaining structure 1 is disposed in the button insertion hole 87 that extends through the door trim 80. The indicator button 7 is inserted into the button insertion hole 87 from below and retained in the button retaining structure 1.

[0074] When the locking / unlocking mechanism of the vehicle lock device 90 switches to the unlocked state, a linkage (not shown) actuates, pushing up the indicator lever 7A. Consequently, the indicator button 7 is guided upwards by the button holding structure 1. Figure 2 The unlock display position is shown as P1. As a result, the user can easily identify that the door 8 is unlocked by visually observing the indicator button 7 (P1) through the window of the door 8 from outside the vehicle.

[0075] On the other hand, when the locking / unlocking mechanism of the vehicle lock device 90 switches to the locked state, a linkage (not shown) is activated, pulling down the indicator lever 7A. Consequently, the indicator button 7 is guided down by the button holding structure 1. Figure 2 The lock indicator is shown at position P2. As a result, the user can easily identify that the door 8 is locked by visually observing the indicator button 7 (P2) through the window of the door 8 from outside the vehicle.

[0076] <Specific structure of the button holding structure>

[0077] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the button retaining structure 1 includes a retainer 10 and a frame 20. The retainer 10 is an example of a "first component" in this embodiment. The frame 20 is an example of a "second component" in this embodiment.

[0078] The retainer 10 and the frame 20 are both resin molded products manufactured by injection molding of thermoplastic resin, etc. In this embodiment, the resin material of the retainer 10 is different from the resin material of the frame 20. Specifically, the frame 20 has higher requirements for appearance compared to the retainer 10, so a resin material capable of forming a high-quality surface is used.

[0079] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, a first recess 81 and a second recess 82 for positioning the frame 20 relative to the door interior 80 are formed on the upper wall portion 80U of the door interior 80.

[0080] The first recess 81 is a generally rectangular recess located on the outer side of the vehicle relative to the axis X1 and recessed radially outward from the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87 towards the axis X1. The second recess 82 is a generally rectangular recess located on the inner side of the vehicle relative to the axis X1 and positioned further forward than the first recess 81 in the front-rear direction, and recessed radially outward from the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87 towards the axis X1. That is, the first recess 81 and the second recess 82 are non-point symmetrical about the axis X1.

[0081] like Figure 5 As shown, four abutment protrusions 88 are formed on the lower surface of the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 to determine the posture of the retainer 10 when it abuts against the door trim 80.

[0082] Each abutting protrusion 88 is a roughly cylindrical part as follows: two parts located in front of the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87 on the upper wall part 80U of the door trim 80, and two parts located behind the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87 on the upper wall part 80U of the door trim 80, and each protrudes downwards for a shorter length.

[0083] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the retainer 10 includes: a cylindrical portion centered on the axis X1; and a funnel-shaped portion connected to the lower end of the cylindrical portion and extending downward and outward in a radial direction from the axis X1.

[0084] like Figure 4 As shown, the upper end face 10U of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10 is an annular surface that is inclined along the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 and surrounds the axis X1. A third recess 13 and four abutting protrusions 18 are formed on the upper end face 10U of the retainer 10.

[0085] The third recess 13 is a recessed portion that is recessed downward from the upper end face 10U of the retainer 10 relative to the axis X1 on the outer side of the vehicle.

[0086] Each abutment protrusion 18 is a generally cylindrical part consisting of two portions located on the upper end face 10U of the retainer 10, positioned forward of the axis X1, and two portions located rearward of the upper end face 10U, each protruding upwards relatively shortly. Each abutment protrusion 18 is configured to mate with each abutment protrusion 88 of the door trim 80.

[0087] like Figure 4 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, two engaging portions 15 are formed in the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10. Each engaging portion 15 is a stepped portion of two grooves located in front of and behind the axis X1 on the inner circumferential side of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10 and extending in the vertical direction.

[0088] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 6 As shown, a guide portion 30 is formed in the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10. The guide portion 30 includes two guide protrusions 32 and a pressing piece 31.

[0089] Each guide protrusion 32 is disposed on the upper edge of the portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10 located on the outer side of the vehicle relative to the axle X1, and is separated from each other in the front-rear direction. Each guide protrusion 32 protrudes inward toward the axle X1 in the radial direction.

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown, the pressing piece 31 is a cantilever beam shape extending upward along the axis X1 from the lower edge of the portion of the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10 located inside the vehicle relative to the axis X1. The upper end of the pressing piece 31 is bent in the radial direction of the axis X1. The pressing piece 31 is elastically deformable in such a way that its upper end is displaced in the radial direction of the axis X1.

[0091] like Figure 6 As shown, each guide protrusion 32 and pressing piece 31 abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the indicator button 7 at three locations surrounding the axis X1.

[0092] like Figure 3 as well as Figures 5-7 As shown, an inlet portion 40 is formed in the funnel-shaped portion of the retainer 10. That is, the inlet portion 40 is located at a position lower than the guide portion 30.

[0093] The guide portion 40 includes a guide surface 40A that connects to the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10. The guide surface 40A is a curved surface that surrounds the indicator button 7 around the axis X1 of the button insertion hole 87 and extends downward in an inverted cone shape.

[0094] In this embodiment, the guide surface 40A surrounds the indicator button 7 within a range of more than 180° around the axis X1. More specifically, the guide surface 40A is a generally annular surface centered on the axis X1, surrounding the entire circumference of the indicator button 7.

[0095] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 as well as Figure 7As shown, the frame 20 includes a frame-shaped portion with a circular hole 27 centered on the axis X1 through the center. The frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 is set to cover the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87 and the first recess 81 and the second recess 82.

[0096] like Figure 7 As shown, the inner diameter of the circular hole 27 is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the indicator button 7 so as not to contact the outer peripheral surface of the indicator button 7.

[0097] like Figure 5 As shown, a first protrusion 21, a second protrusion 22, a third protrusion 23, and two engaging portions 25 are formed on the lower surface of the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20.

[0098] The first protrusion 21 protrudes from the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 located on the outer side of the vehicle relative to the axis X1. The first protrusion 21 can engage with the first recess 81 of the door trim 80.

[0099] The second protrusion 22 protrudes from the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20, located inside the vehicle relative to the axis X1 and positioned further forward than the first protrusion 21 in the front-rear direction. The second protrusion 22 can engage with the second recess 82 of the door trim 80.

[0100] The third protrusion 23 protrudes downward from the front edge of the lower surface of the first protrusion 21 along the axis X1 in a manner close to the retainer 10. The third protrusion 23 can engage with the third recess 13 of the retainer 10.

[0101] The two engaging portions 25 are cantilever beam shapes that extend downward along the axis X1 in a manner close to the retainer 10 from two parts of the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 that are in front of and behind the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the circular hole 27.

[0102] A claw 25A is formed at the front end of each engaging portion 25. The claw 25A of each engaging portion 25 protrudes in the radial direction outward from the axis X1 and can engage with each engaging portion 15 of the retaining member 10. Each engaging portion 25 can elastically deform in such a way that the claw 25A is displaced in the radial direction inward from the axis X1.

[0103] <Button retention structure and assembly method of indicator button>

[0104] As described above, the button retaining structure 1 is assembled into the door trim 80 as follows.

[0105] That is, such as Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, the frame 20 is lowered from a position above the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 toward the button insertion hole 87. At this time, each engaging portion 25 elastically deforms in the radial direction inward of the axis X1 by sliding contact between the claw 25A and the inner peripheral surface of the button insertion hole 87, and passes through the button insertion hole 87.

[0106] Furthermore, by engaging the first protrusion 21 with the first recess 81 and engaging the second protrusion 22 with the second recess 82, the frame 20 is positioned relative to the door trim 80. As a result, the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 abuts against the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 from above, covering the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87.

[0107] Next, the retainer 10 is raised from a position lower than the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 toward the button insertion hole 87. At this time, the third protrusion 23 of the frame 20 engages with the third recess 13 of the retainer 10. In addition, each engaging portion 25 of the frame 20 enters the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10.

[0108] Each engaging portion 25 elastically deforms in the radial direction inwards from the axis X1 by causing the pawl 25A to slide into contact with each engaged portion 15, and does not elastically deform after the pawl 25A passes over each engaged portion 15. Thus, as Figure 7 As shown, the claws 25A of each engaging portion 25 engage with each engaged portion 15, thereby preventing the retainer 10 from separating from the frame 20. As a result, the retainer 10 and the frame 20 clamp the door trim 80.

[0109] In this state, the elastic foam layer 80B of the door trim 80 is pressed down by the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 and slightly indented, thereby exerting a restoring force. Under the action of this restoring force, the claws 25A of each engaging portion 25 engage with each engaging portion 15 without wobbling, thus suppressing the generation of abnormal noise.

[0110] In addition, in this state, Figure 4 The retaining member 10 shown has each abutting protrusion 18 from below. Figure 5 The abutting protrusions 88 of the door trim 80 shown abut against each other, thereby determining the posture of the retainer 10 when it abuts against the door trim 80.

[0111] like Figure 3 As shown, after assembling the button retaining structure 1 onto the door trim 80, the indicator button 7 is inserted into the button insertion hole 87. At this time, the guide portion 40 smoothly guides the indicator button 7 to the guide portion 30 through the guide surface 40A, which extends downward in an inverted cone shape. As a result, as Figure 2 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the button holding structure 1 holds the indicator button 7 in a position where the upper end of the indicator button 7 is above the frame-shaped portion of the border 20.

[0112] like Figure 6 As shown, in this state, the guide protrusions 32 and pressing pieces 31 of the guide portion 30 abut against the outer peripheral surface of the indicator button 7 at three locations surrounding the axis X1, thereby guiding the indicator button 7 up and down. Furthermore, when the indicator button 7 is shaken or tilted relative to the axis X1, the pressing pieces 31 elastically deform in the radial direction outward from the axis X1, applying a suitable pressing force to the indicator button 7. Thus, the state in which the guide protrusions 32 and pressing pieces 31 abut against the outer peripheral surface of the indicator button 7 is appropriately maintained.

[0113] like Figure 7 As shown, the elastic deformation of each engaging portion 25 in the radial direction inward of the axis X1 is limited by inserting the indicator button 7 into the button insertion hole 87. As a result, the claws 25A of each engaging portion 25 are difficult to disengage from each engaged portion 15.

[0114] It should be noted that when the button retaining structure 1 is applied to the door 8, which is the right-side side door, the retaining member 10 remains unchanged. However, the positional relationship between the button insertion hole 87, the first recess 81, and the second recess 82 of the door trim 80 is the same as the structure described above, and the frame 20 also becomes the same as the structure described above.

[0115] <Effects>

[0116] In the button holding structure 1 of embodiment 1, as follows Figure 3 As shown, when the indicator button 7 is inserted into the button insertion hole 87, the guide portion 40 guides the indicator button 7 to the guide portion 30 through the guide surface 40A. At this time, the guide surface 40A abuts against the indicator button 7 in a surface manner, thus suppressing localized pressing of the indicator button 7.

[0117] Therefore, in the button holding structure 1 of Embodiment 1, damage to the indicator button 7 can be suppressed. As a result, in this button holding structure 1, the reduction of aesthetics in the vehicle interior can be suppressed.

[0118] Furthermore, in this button holding structure 1, the guide surface 40A surrounds the indicator button 7 within a range exceeding 180° around the axis X1. More specifically, the guide surface 40A is a roughly annular surface centered on the axis X1, surrounding the entire circumference of the indicator button 7. With this structure, the guide surface 40A abuts against the indicator button 7 with a larger surface area, thus further suppressing localized pressing of the indicator button 7.

[0119] Furthermore, the button retains structure 1 as described above. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, the retainer 10, which abuts against the door trim 80 from below, has a guide portion 30 and an inlet portion 40. The frame 20, which abuts against the door trim 80 from above, together with the retainer 10, holds the door trim 80 and covers the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87. This structure simplifies the retainer 10 and the frame 20, and also simplifies the shape of the periphery of the button insertion hole 87 of the door trim 80.

[0120] Additionally, in the button holding structure 1, such as Figure 7 As shown, by inserting the indicator button 7 into the button insertion hole 87, the elastic deformation of each engaging portion 25 of the frame 20 in the radial direction inward of the axis X1 is restricted. With this structure, the claws 25A of each engaging portion 25 are difficult to disengage from each engaged portion 15 of the retainer 10, thus reliably maintaining the state in which the retainer 10 and the frame 20 clamp the door interior trim 80.

[0121] Furthermore, in the button holding structure 1, as follows Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 As shown, in the door trim 80, the first recess 81 and the second recess 82 are non-point symmetrical about the axis X1. The frame 20 has a first protrusion 21 that engages with the first recess 81, a second protrusion 22 that engages with the second recess 82, and a third protrusion 23 that engages with the third recess 13 of the retainer 10. With this structure, even if the shape of the frame 20 differs when used for a door 8 as a left side door and when used for a door 8 as a right side door, misassembly can be suppressed through the engagement of the first to third recesses 81, 82, 13 with the first to third protrusions 21, 22, 23.

[0122] Additionally, in the button holding structure 1, such as Figures 4-6 As shown, the guide portion 30 includes a pressing piece 31 that extends along the axis X1, abuts against the indicator button 7, and is elastically deformable in the radial direction outward from the axis X1. With this structure, when the indicator button 7, guided up and down by the guide portion 30, wobbles or tilts relative to the axis X1, the pressing piece 31 elastically deforms in the radial direction outward from the axis X1, applying a moderate pressing force to the indicator button 7. This appropriately maintains the contact between each guide protrusion 32 and the pressing piece 31 and the outer peripheral surface of the indicator button 7. As a result, the guide portion 30 can smoothly guide the indicator button 7 while suppressing wobble.

[0123] (Example 2)

[0124] like Figures 8-10 As shown, the button holding structure 2 of Embodiment 2 replaces the holding member 10 of the button holding structure 1 of Embodiment 1 and adopts the guide portion 230 and the inlet portion 240 integrally formed on the door interior 80, and directly adopts the frame 20 of Embodiment 1.

[0125] The other structures of Embodiment 2 are the same as those of Embodiment 1. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to label the structures that are the same as those in Embodiment 1, and descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0126] like Figure 8 As shown, in the button holding structure 2, the door trim 80 includes a cylindrical portion extending downward from the lower surface of the upper wall portion 80U with the axis X1 as the center.

[0127] like Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the button insertion hole 87, the first recess 81 and the second recess 82 are surrounded by the cylindrical portion of the door trim 80 and extend to a position lower than that in Embodiment 1.

[0128] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 10 As shown, two engaging portions 285 are formed in the cylindrical portion of the door trim 80. Each engaging portion 285 is a step portion formed at the front and rear positions relative to the axis X1 on the inner circumferential side of the cylindrical portion of the door trim 80.

[0129] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 As shown, a guide portion 230 is formed in the cylindrical portion of the door trim 80. The guide portion 230 includes two guide protrusions 232 and a pressing piece 231.

[0130] Each guide protrusion 232 is disposed on the inner circumferential side of the cylindrical portion of the door trim 80, on the inner flange portion 287A, whose diameter is smaller than the diameter of the button insertion hole 87. Each guide protrusion 232 is located on the outer side of the vehicle relative to the axis X1 and is separated from each other in the front-rear direction. Each guide protrusion 232 protrudes radially inward toward the axis X1.

[0131] The pressing piece 231 is a cantilever beam shape that extends upward along the axis X1 from the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion of the door trim 80 relative to the axis X1 on the inner side of the vehicle. The upper end of the pressing piece 231 is bent inward toward the axis X1. The pressing piece 231 is elastically deformable in such a way that its upper end is displaced inward toward the axis X1.

[0132] Each guide protrusion 232 and pressing piece 231 abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the indicator button 7 at three locations surrounding the axis X1.

[0133] like Figure 8 as well as Figure 10 As shown, an inlet portion 240 is formed in the cylindrical portion of the door interior 80 at a position lower than the guide portion 230.

[0134] The inlet portion 240 includes an inlet surface 240A connected to the lower edge of the inner flange portion 287A. The inlet surface 240A is a surface that surrounds the indicator button 7 around the axis X1 of the button insertion hole 87 and extends downward in an inverted cone shape.

[0135] In this embodiment, the guide surface 240A surrounds the indicator button 7 within a range of more than 180° around the axis X1. More specifically, the guide surface 240A is a generally annular surface centered on the axis X1, surrounding the entire circumference of the indicator button 7.

[0136] The frame 20 is assembled to the door trim 80 as follows. That is, as... Figure 8 As shown, the frame 20 is lowered from a position above the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 toward the button insertion hole 87. At this time, each engaging portion 25 elastically deforms in the radial direction inward of the axis X1 by sliding contact between the claw 25A and the inner circumferential surface of the button insertion hole 87, and does not elastically deform after passing through the button insertion hole 87. Thus, as Figure 10 As shown, the claws 25A of each engaging portion 25 engage with each engaged portion 285, thereby restricting the separation of the frame 20 from the door interior 80.

[0137] Furthermore, by engaging the first protrusion 21 with the first recess 81 and engaging the second protrusion 22 with the second recess 82, the frame 20 is positioned relative to the door trim 80. As a result, the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 abuts against the upper wall portion 80U of the door trim 80 from above, covering the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 87.

[0138] In this state, the elastic foam layer 80B of the door trim 80 is pressed down by the frame-shaped portion of the frame 20 and slightly indented, thereby exerting a restoring force. Under the action of this restoring force, the claws 25A of each engaging portion 25 engage with each engaged portion 285 without wobbling, thus suppressing the generation of abnormal noise.

[0139] In the button holding structure 2 of Embodiment 2, which is the structure described above, similarly to the button holding structure 1 of Embodiment 1, damage to the indicator button 7 can be suppressed by incorporating the curved surface 240A. As a result, in this button holding structure 2, the reduction in the aesthetics of the vehicle interior can be suppressed.

[0140] Furthermore, in this button holding structure 2, the guide portion 230 and the inlet portion 240 are integrally formed on the door trim 80. This structure simplifies the process of assembling the button holding structure 2 onto the door trim 80.

[0141] (Example 3)

[0142] like Figures 11-13As shown, in the button holding structure 3 of embodiment 3, the door trim 80 of embodiment 1 is replaced by a single-layer structure of hard resin, and the retaining member 10 of embodiment 1 is directly used. On the other hand, the frame 20 of embodiment 1 is removed.

[0143] The other structures of Embodiment 3 are the same as those of Embodiment 1. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to label the same structures as in Embodiment 1, and descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0144] A button insertion hole 387 centered on axis X1 is provided through the upper wall 380U of the door trim 380. The inner diameter of the button insertion hole 387 is set to be approximately equal to the inner diameter of the circular hole 27 of the frame 20 in Embodiment 1.

[0145] like Figure 12 As shown, a third protrusion 383 and four abutment protrusions 388 are formed on the lower surface of the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380 to determine the posture of the retainer 10 when it abuts against the door trim 380.

[0146] The third protrusion 383 is disposed on the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380, which is located on the outer side of the vehicle than the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 387, and protrudes downward along the axis X1 in a manner close to the retainer 10. The third protrusion 383 can engage with the third recess 13 of the retainer 10.

[0147] Each abutting protrusion 388 is disposed at two locations on the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380 that are forward of the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 387, and at two locations on the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380 that are rearward of the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 387, and protrudes downward for a shorter distance. Each abutting protrusion 388 is configured to mate with each abutting protrusion 18 of the retainer 10.

[0148] In addition, two engaging portions 385 are formed on the lower surface of the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380. Each engaging portion 385 is a cantilever beam shape that extends downward along the axis X1 from two parts of the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380 that are forward and rearward from the axis X1 and adjacent to the outer periphery of the button insertion hole 387.

[0149] A claw 385A is formed at the front end of each engaging portion 385. The claw 385A of each engaging portion 385 protrudes in the radial direction outward from the axis X1 and can engage with each engaging portion 15 of the retaining member 10. Each engaging portion 385 can elastically deform in such a way that the claw 385A is displaced in the radial direction inward from the axis X1.

[0150] The retaining element 10 is assembled to the door trim 380 as follows. That is, as... Figure 11 As shown, the retainer 10 is raised from a position lower than the upper wall portion 380U of the door trim 380 toward the button insertion hole 387. At this time, the third protrusion 383 of the door trim 380 engages with the third recess 13 of the retainer 10. In addition, each engaging portion 385 of the door trim 380 enters the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion of the retainer 10.

[0151] Each engaging portion 385 elastically deforms in the radial direction inwards from the axis X1 by sliding contact between the pawl 385A and each engaged portion 15, and does not elastically deform after the pawl 385A passes each engaged portion 15. Thus, as... Figure 13 As shown, the claws 385A of each engaging portion 385 engage with each engaged portion 15, thereby preventing the retaining member 10 from separating from the door trim 380.

[0152] In addition, in this state, Figure 11 The retaining member 10 shown has each abutting protrusion 18 from below. Figure 12 The abutting protrusions 388 of the door trim 380 abut against each other, thereby determining the posture of the retainer 10 when it abuts against the door trim 380. As a result, the retainer 10 is securely fixed to the door trim 380.

[0153] In the button holding structure 3 of Embodiment 3, which is the structure described above, similarly to the button holding structures 1 and 2 of Embodiments 1 and 2, damage to the indicator button 7 can be suppressed by incorporating the curved surface 40A. As a result, the button holding structure 3 can suppress the reduction of aesthetics in the vehicle interior.

[0154] Furthermore, in this button holding structure 3, the retaining member 10, which has a guide portion 30 and an inlet portion 40, is integrally fixed to the door trim 380. This structure simplifies the process of assembling the button holding structure 3 of the door 8 to the door trim 380.

[0155] The above describes the present invention based on Examples 1 to 3. However, the present invention is not limited to Examples 1 to 3 above. Of course, it can be appropriately modified and applied without departing from its spirit.

[0156] In embodiments 1-3, the guide surfaces 40A and 240A are approximately annular surfaces centered on axis X1, surrounding the entire circumference of the indicator button 7; however, this example is not limited to this structure. For example, a structure in which the guide surfaces 40A and 240A are divided into two or more sections circumferentially around axis X1 is also included in this example. In this case, it is preferable to round the circumferential edges of the divided sections of the guide surfaces 40A and 240A, and preferably to narrow the gaps between the divided sections. Alternatively, the guide surface may also be a approximately polygonal annular surface surrounding axis X1. Furthermore, in Figure 14 The diagram shows a modified button retaining structure. In this modified example, for the retainer 10 of the button retaining structure 1 of Embodiment 1, a portion of the part located on the outer side of the vehicle beyond the axis X1 is cut off, and the guide portion 40 is replaced with a generally C-shaped curved surface, namely the guide surface 40C. One end edge and the other end edge of the guide surface 40C in the circumferential direction around the axis X1 are rounded. As a result, the guide surface 40C surrounds the indicator button 7 within a range of more than 180° around the axis X1. Consequently, in this modified example, similar to the button retaining structures 1 to 3 of Embodiments 1 to 3, damage to the indicator button 7 can be suppressed by the guide surface 40C.

[0157] In embodiments 1 to 3, the button holding structures 1 to 3 are applied to the door 8 located on the left side of the vehicle, but this example is not limited to this structure. For example, the door to which the button holding structure is applied may also be a side door located on the right side of the vehicle. In addition, as long as an indicator button is provided, it may also be a door different from the side door, such as a rear door.

[0158] Alternatively, the retaining member 10 may have an upwardly protruding engagement portion that is the same shape as the two engagement portions 25 in Embodiment 1, and the frame 20 may have an opposite engagement portion that is the same shape as the two engagement portions 15 in Embodiment 1, and the retaining member 10 and the frame 20 may clamp the door interior trim 80 through the engagement of both.

[0159] Alternatively, the retaining member 10 may have a third protrusion that is the same shape as the third protrusion 23 in Embodiment 1 and protrudes upward, and the frame 20 may have a third recess that is the same shape as the third recess 13 in Embodiment 1 and is recessed in the opposite direction, and the two may be fitted together.

[0160] For the indicator button 7 in embodiments 1 to 3, it may be pressed to the locked display position P2 by the user's manual locking operation, thereby switching the locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch device 90 to the locked state. On the other hand, it may be pulled up to the unlocked display position P1 by the user's manual unlocking operation, thereby switching the locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch device 90 to the unlocked state.

[0161] The structure of removing the frame 20 from Embodiment 2 is also included in this example. In this case, it is also possible to remove the first recess 81 and the second recess 82 of Embodiment 2, and change the inner diameter of the button insertion hole 87 to be approximately equal to the size of the circular hole 27 of the frame 20.

Claims

1. A door button retaining structure, which is disposed in a button insertion hole (87) extending through a door interior (80), and guides the indicator button (7) in an upwardly convex shape when it is raised and lowered, and when the indicator button (7) is inserted from below into the button insertion hole (87). The button holding structure of the car door is characterized by having: Guide section (30, 230), which guides the indicator button (7) up and down; and The inlet section (40, 240) is located below the guide section (30) and directs the indicator button (7) to the guide section (30). The inlet portion (40, 240) includes an inlet surface, which is a surface that surrounds the indicator button (7) around the axis (X1) of the button insertion hole (87) and extends downward in an inverted cone shape. The door button holding structure includes: The first component (10) has the guide portion (30, 230) and the inlet portion (40, 240) formed thereon, and abuts against the door trim (80) from below; as well as The second component (20) abuts against the door trim (80) from above and, together with the first component (10), clamps the door trim (80) and covers the outer periphery of the button insertion hole (87). A plurality of engaging portions (25) are formed on one of the first member (10) and the second member (20), the plurality of engaging portions (25) extending along the axis (X1) toward the other of the first member (10) and the second member (20), and are capable of elastic deformation in the radial direction of the axis (X1). A claw (25A) is formed at the front end of each of the engagement portions (25). The claw (25A) protrudes radially outward from the axis (X1) and engages with the other of the first member (10) and the second member (20), thereby restricting the separation of the first member (10) and the second member (20). The indicator button (7) inserted into the button through hole (87) restricts the elastic deformation of each of the engagement portions (25) in the radial direction.

2. The door button retaining structure according to claim 1, wherein, The introductory surface surrounds the indicator button (7) within a range of more than 180° around the axis (X1).

3. The door button retaining structure according to claim 1, wherein, The door trim (80) has a first recess (81) and a second recess (82) that are recessed from the outer periphery of the button insertion hole (87) toward the radial direction of the axis (X1). The first recess (81) and the second recess (82) are non-point symmetrical about the axis (X1). The second member (20) has a first protrusion (21) that engages with the first recess (81) and a second protrusion (22) that engages with the second recess (82). A third protrusion (23) is formed on one of the first member (10) and the second member (20), protruding along the axis (X1) toward the other of the first member (10) and the second member (20). A third recess (13) is formed in the other of the first member (10) and the second member (20) for fitting the third protrusion (23).

4. The door button retaining structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The guide portion (30, 230) includes a pressing piece that extends along the axis and abuts against the indicator button, and is elastically deformable in a radially outward direction from the axis.

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