Ramp device for a vehicle

Abstract

A ramp device for a vehicle that reduces sliding resistance. The ramp device (11) is provided with a ramp plate (10) that deploys at a lower end of a door opening portion, and a guide rail (20) that extends in a deployment and storage direction of the ramp plate (10). In addition, the ramp device (11) is provided with a moving body (21) that moves along the extension direction of the guide rail (20), and a support arm (22) that is rotatably linked to the rear end portion (10r) of the ramp plate (10) and is rotatably linked to the moving body (21). The ramp device (11) is further provided with a lifting mechanism that lifts the rear end portion (10r) of the ramp plate (10) by rotating the support arm (22) in a state in which the ramp plate (10) is deployed. Furthermore, the support arm (22) is provided with a roller (57) that maintains the moving posture of the ramp plate (10) by slidingly contacting the guide rail (20) in a state in which the ramp plate (10) moves integrally with the moving body (21).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a ramp device for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] Conventional ramp devices for vehicles have been developed that deploy ramps at the lower end of the door opening. For example, the ramp device described in Patent Document 1 includes a guide rail extending in the deployment and retraction direction of the ramp and a moving body that moves along the extension direction of the guide rail. Furthermore, this ramp device includes a support arm and a lifting mechanism. The support arm is rotatably connected to the rear end of the ramp and to the drive shoe, and the lifting mechanism rotates the support arm. Moreover, by rotating the support arm based on the action of the lifting mechanism, the rear end of the ramp that deploys at the lower end of the door opening is lifted upwards. This creates a ramp structure where the rear end of the ramp approaches the vehicle floor.

[0003] Furthermore, in this conventional ramp device, when the ramp plate and the moving body move together, the support arm of the ramp device slides in contact with the guide rail. This results in a structure where the moving posture of the ramp plate is stably maintained by restricting the rotation of the support arm.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-164142 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, in the structure of the aforementioned prior art, there is a problem that the sliding resistance increases due to the sliding contact between the support arm and the guide rail.

[0009] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0010] A vehicle ramp device for solving the above-mentioned technical problems comprises: a ramp plate that unfolds at the lower end of a door opening; a guide rail that extends in the unfolding and retracting direction of the ramp plate; a movable body that moves along the extending direction of the guide rail; a support arm that is rotatably connected to the rear end of the ramp plate and to the movable body; and a lifting mechanism that, when the ramp plate is in the unfolded state, lifts the rear end of the ramp plate by rotating the support arm, and wherein the support arm is provided with a roller that, when the ramp plate and the movable body move integrally, maintains the moving posture of the ramp plate by sliding contact with the guide rail.

[0011] Based on the above structure, the increase in sliding resistance can be suppressed, and the moving posture of the ramp can be stably maintained. This ensures smooth operation and high reliability.

[0012] The vehicle ramp device that solves the above-mentioned technical problems preferably includes a roller cover that covers the top of the roller when the rear end of the ramp plate is lifted by the rotation of the support arm.

[0013] That is, the support arm rotates while exposed outside the guide rail, causing the rear end of the ramp to move up and down. Therefore, the rollers provided on the support arm are also positioned in areas where external forces could easily be applied, such as when a user of the ramp accidentally steps on them. However, according to the above structure, the roller cover protects the rollers. Furthermore, this ensures high reliability.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the vehicle ramp device that solves the above-mentioned technical problems, the roller cover is disposed on the support arm and positioned to cover the roller by rotating integrally with the support arm.

[0015] That is, by mounting the roller cover on the support arm, the roller cover and the support arm can be integrated and stored together. This simplifies and miniaturizes the structure. Furthermore, by rotating the roller cover and the support arm together, the direction in which the roller cover covers the roller can be changed. This ensures that the area of ​​sliding contact between the roller and the guide rail is maintained when the support arm moves in the unfolding and retracting directions.

[0016] The vehicle ramp device for solving the above-mentioned technical problems preferably includes a lifting mechanism comprising: a driven member having a connecting shaft to the support arm and moving in the same extension direction as the support arm on the guide rail; and a deployment stop that abuts against the driven member in the deployment direction to restrict the movement of the driven member. The lifting mechanism moves the moving body in the deployment direction while the movement of the driven member in the deployment direction is restricted, thereby causing the support arm to rotate about the connecting shaft connected to the driven member, lifting the rear end of the ramp plate upwards. The lifting mechanism includes a locking rod that engages the driven member with the support arm. When the unfolding stop is engaged, the engaging rod engages with the driven component, restricting the movement of the driven component toward the storage direction. When the driven component moves toward the position abutting the unfolding stop, the engaging rod is pressed by the driven component and rotates in a first direction, thereby allowing the movement of the driven component toward the unfolding direction. When the driven component abuts the unfolding stop, the engaging rod is pressed by the pressing part and rotates in a second direction, thereby engaging with the driven component. The engaging rod restricts rotation in the first direction by the pressing part located in the first direction, and the pressing part is integrally provided with the moving body moving toward the unfolding direction.

[0017] According to the above structure, the support arm rotates in conjunction with the movable body 21, which moves along the guide rail in the unfolding and retracting direction. Furthermore, this allows the rear end of the ramp plate connected to the support arm to move up and down.

[0018] Furthermore, in the raised state where the rear end of the ramp is lifted upwards, the moving position of the driven member can be fixed. This allows for stable maintenance of the raised state. Moreover, the driven member can be linked with the moving body that moves in the unfolding and retracting direction to engage and disengage with the locking lever. This also simplifies the structure.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the vehicle ramp device that solves the above-mentioned technical problems, the driven component includes a locking piece that engages with the locking rod when it abuts against the deployment stop and is clamped between the deployment stop and the locking rod.

[0020] Based on the above structure, the movement of the driven component can be stably restricted in both the unfolding and retracting directions using a simple structure.

[0021] The preferred embodiment of the vehicle ramp device for solving the above-mentioned technical problems is that the driven member has a folded plate shape having a first upright plate portion and a second upright plate portion, the first upright plate portion and the second upright plate portion being arranged at a position offset from each other in the width direction of the guide rail.

[0022] Based on the above structure, a driven component that moves together with the moving body and support arm in the unfolding and retracting directions can be easily and space-savingly formed with a simple structure. Furthermore, based on the shape of the folded plate, tipping of the driven component can be suppressed. This ensures stable operation.

[0023] The vehicle ramp device that solves the above-mentioned technical problems preferably includes: an anti-detachment member rotatably connected to the ramp plate; a force-applying member that applies force to the anti-detachment member to make the anti-detachment member stand upright at the side end of the ramp plate; and a pressing member that abuts against and presses the anti-detachment member, which moves downward together with the ramp plate, by pulling down the rotation of the support arm at the rear end of the ramp plate that is raised upward, thereby overcoming the force of the force-applying member and causing the anti-detachment member to tilt toward the upper surface of the ramp plate. The pressing member is disposed in a position that can abut against the anti-detachment member by being provided in the driven member and inserted into a slit formed at the side end of the ramp plate. Furthermore, the pressing member has a flexible abutment piece that bends in the width direction of the ramp plate and abuts against the side wall of the slit.

[0024] That is, with the support arm connected to the rear end of the ramp plate rotating, the moving position of the driven member is fixed. Therefore, by providing a pressing member to this driven member, it is possible to stably link with the up-and-down movement of the ramp plate caused by the rotation of the support arm, causing the anti-falling member to stand upright at the side end of the ramp plate and tilt towards the upper surface of the ramp plate. Moreover, by abutting the pressing member against the side wall of the slit, the pressing member can be positioned relative to the anti-falling member facing the slit. Furthermore, by using the elastic force based on the flexibility given to the abutting member, positional deviations caused by displacement in the width direction of the ramp plate can be suppressed.

[0025] The vehicle ramp device that solves the above-mentioned technical problems preferably includes a connecting member that is connected to the moving body while fixed to a drive cable, thereby moving integrally with the moving body based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable. The moving body is a folded plate shape having a horizontal plate portion and a longitudinal wall portion. The horizontal plate portion is connected to the connecting member, and the longitudinal wall portion is connected to the support arm. The connecting member includes: a vertical plate-shaped portion that forms the pressing portion for the engaging rod; and a fitting portion provided at the lower end of the vertical plate-shaped portion and having a plurality of fitting pieces that clamp the horizontal plate portion in the vertical direction. The connecting member is connected to the moving body.

[0026] That is, by providing a pressing part for the locking lever in a connecting member that moves integrally with the moving body, it is possible to coordinate with the moving body moving in the unfolding and retracting direction, and to control the engagement and disengagement of the locking lever relative to the driven member with high precision. Furthermore, this ensures stable operation.

[0027] Furthermore, by employing a structure that connects the connecting component and the moving body through a fitting, the assembly process can be simplified. Moreover, by clamping the horizontal plate portion of the moving body with multiple fitting pieces in the vertical direction, tipping of the vertical plate-shaped portion of the connecting component can be suppressed. Additionally, this avoids an increase in sliding resistance caused by changes in the movement posture of the connecting component and the moving body.

[0028] The vehicle ramp device that solves the above-mentioned technical problems preferably includes a retraction stop that restricts the movement of the moving body toward the retraction direction by abutting against the moving body that moves toward the retraction direction past a predetermined retraction position. Furthermore, the retraction stop is positioned at the position abutting against the moving body when the fitting portion of the retraction stop and the connecting member are side by side in the unfolding and retraction directions.

[0029] That is, the moving body moves integrally with the connecting component based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable. Therefore, by adopting the above structure, the storage stop can efficiently bear the load of the moving body. Furthermore, the posture of the moving body abutting against the storage stop can be stably maintained. As a result, excessive strength margins can be eliminated, achieving a lightweight moving body.

[0030] The effects of the invention

[0031] According to the present invention, sliding resistance can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 It is a 3D view of a vehicle equipped with a ramp device.

[0033] Figure 2 It is a 3D view of a vehicle equipped with a ramp device.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of a ramp device installed below the door opening.

[0035] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a ramp device installed below the door opening.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the ramp device.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the ramp device.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the ramp device.

[0039] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the ramp device.

[0040] Figure 9 It is a three-dimensional view of the ramp device near the lifting mechanism.

[0041] Figure 10 It is a three-dimensional view of the ramp device near the lifting mechanism.

[0042] Figure 11 It is a three-dimensional view of the ramp device near the lifting mechanism.

[0043] Figure 12 It is a three-dimensional view of the ramp device near the lifting mechanism.

[0044] Figure 13 It is a three-dimensional view of the side plate forming the width end of the ramp, the connecting rod component forming the support arm, the moving body, the roller, and the roller cover.

[0045] Figure 14 It is a three-dimensional view of the side plate, connecting rod assembly, moving body, roller, and roller cover.

[0046] Figure 15 This is a side view of the lifting mechanism.

[0047] Figure 16 This is a side view of the lifting mechanism.

[0048] Figure 17 This is a side view of the lifting mechanism.

[0049] Figure 18 This is a top view of the lifting mechanism.

[0050] Figure 19 This is a top view of the lifting mechanism.

[0051] Figure 20 This is a top view of the lifting mechanism.

[0052] Figure 21 This is a top view of the lifting mechanism.

[0053] Figure 22 It is a side view of the side plate, connecting rod assembly, moving body, roller, and roller cover.

[0054] Figure 23 It is a side view of the side plate, connecting rod assembly, moving body, roller, roller cover, and guide rail.

[0055] Figure 24 It is a side view of the rollers and roller cover in the raised state with the rear end of the ramp plate lifted.

[0056] Figure 25 It is a 3D view of the roller and the area around the roller cover in the raised state.

[0057] Figure 26 (a) and (b) are side views of the connecting rod assembly, the roller, and the roller cover.

[0058] Figure 27 It is a 3D view of the ramp in its unfolded state and the anti-fall-off component in its upright state.

[0059] Figure 28 It is a 3D view of the ramp in its stowed state and the anti-fall-off component in its tilted state.

[0060] Figure 29 This is a rear view of the ramp with the anti-fall-off component upright.

[0061] Figure 30 This is a rear view of the ramp with the anti-fall-off component tilted.

[0062] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of a torsion coil spring that applies force to the hinge portion of the ramp and the anti-fall-off component connected to the side end of the ramp via the hinge portion.

[0063] Figure 32 This is a top view of the ramp device near the rear end of the ramp plate.

[0064] Figure 33 This is the main view of the lifting mechanism.

[0065] Figure 34 This is a top view of the ramp device located near the slit at the rear end of the ramp plate.

[0066] Figure 35 This is the front view of the moving body and connecting parts.

[0067] Figure 36 This is a rear view of the moving parts and connecting components.

[0068] Figure 37 It is a top view of the moving parts and connecting components.

[0069] Figure 38 It is a bottom view of the moving parts and connecting components.

[0070] Figure 39 It is a top view of the moving body, connecting parts, and storage stop when it is moved to the vicinity of the storage position.

[0071] Symbol Explanation

[0072] 3…door opening

[0073] 10…slope board

[0074] 10r…rear end

[0075] 11… Inclined device

[0076] 20… guide rail

[0077] 21…moving bodies

[0078] 22… Support arm

[0079] 50… Lifting mechanism

[0080] 57…rollers Detailed Implementation

[0081] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a ramp device for vehicles will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0082] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the vehicle 1 of this embodiment has a generally box-shaped body 2 extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Furthermore, a door opening 3 serving as a passenger boarding / alighting opening is provided on the side 2s of the body 2. A pair of sliding doors 4f and 4r are provided in this door opening 3, and these sliding doors 4f and 4r open and close in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0083] That is, the sliding door 4f on the front side of the vehicle is opened by moving forward and closed by moving backward. Conversely, the sliding door 4r on the rear side of the vehicle is opened by moving backward and closed by moving forward. Furthermore, each of these sliding doors 4f and 4r has a structure that functions as a power sliding door device, opening and closing based on the driving force of an actuator (not shown). In this embodiment, the vehicle 1 opens and closes the door opening 3 by means of the coordinated movement of these sliding doors 4f and 4r.

[0084] Furthermore, the vehicle 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a ramp device 11, which deploys a ramp 10 at the lower end of the door opening 3 when the door opening 3 is open. Moreover, by utilizing the ramp 12 formed with the ramp 10, the vehicle 1 of this embodiment allows passengers, such as those with wheelchairs, strollers, or suitcases, to easily board and alight from the door opening 3.

[0085] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is disposed below the door opening 3 within a storage box 13, which is a storage section provided in the body 2 of the vehicle 1. Specifically, the storage box 13 has an opening 13a facing the same direction as the door opening 3. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a structure that allows the ramp plate 10 stored in the storage box 13 to be extended outwards from the vehicle via the opening 13a, and then retracts the extended ramp plate 10 back into the storage box 13.

[0086] In detail, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a pair of guide rails 20, 20, which extend along the unfolding direction and the storage direction of the ramp plate 10 that unfolds from the lower end of the door opening 3 of the storage box 13, that is, in the depth direction within the storage box 13.

[0087] like Figures 3-5 As shown, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the guide rails 20, 20 are arranged substantially parallel to each other so that they are clamped into the storage box 13 from both sides in the width direction. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a pair of movable bodies 21, 21, which are configured to slide along the extension direction of each engaged guide rail 20 in a state of engagement with the guide rails 20. Moreover, the ramp device 11 includes a pair of support arms 22, 22, which are rotatably connected to the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 and rotatably connected to the movable bodies 21, 21. That is, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the ramp plate 10 is connected to the movable bodies 21, 21 via the support arms 22, 22. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure that moves in conjunction with each of the moving bodies 21, 21 to the ramp plate 10 in the direction of unfolding and retracting.

[0088] Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes an actuator 25 that uses a motor 24 as a drive source to provide driving force to the ramp plate 10. In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the actuator 25 is disposed inside the storage box 13 on the inner side relative to the rear end 20r of each guide rail 20, 20. Moreover, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a pair of drive cables 26, 26 wired along the extending direction of the guide rails 20, 20. In addition, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, these drive cables 26, 26 are wired from the actuator 25 to the rear end 20r of each guide rail 20, 20 by being inserted into the housing tubes 26x, 26x. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a structure that moves each moving body 21, 21 along the extending direction of each guide rail 20, 20 based on the driving force of the actuator 25 transmitted via these drive cables 26, 26.

[0089] Specifically, the actuator 25 of this embodiment has a drive gear 27 that rotates based on the driving force generated by the motor 24. Furthermore, the actuator 24 is configured to hold the drive gear 27 at two positions in the radial direction, with each drive cable 26, 26 meshing with the drive gear 27. That is, the actuator 25 of this embodiment rotates via the drive gear 27, causing the drive cables 26, 26 to slide along the extending direction of each guide rail 20, 20. Moreover, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the ends of each drive cable 26, 26 are connected to each moving body 21, 21. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the moving bodies 21, 21, while being guided toward each guide rail 20, 20, slide integrally with the drive cables 26, 26 in the unfolding and retracting directions of the ramp plate 10.

[0090] In detail, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the ramp plate 10 is stored in the storage box 13 while being held in a generally horizontal position based on the engaging force of the moving body 21 and the support arm 22 on the guide rail 20. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure in which, while maintaining this generally horizontal position, it moves integrally with the moving body 21 and the support arm 22 in the direction of unfolding and storing the ramp plate 10 along the extending direction of the guide rail 20.

[0091] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the ramp plate 10 of the ramp device 11 extends outward from the side edge 1s of the vehicle 1, which is provided with the storage box 13, in the vehicle width direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, in this state, by rotating the support arm 22 clamped between the moving body 21 and the ramp plate 10, the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted. Thus, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment forms a ramp road 12 structure such that the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 approaches the vehicle floor 32.

[0092] Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, a floor engaging portion 29 is provided at the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10. In this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is a structure in which the vehicle floor 28 supports the load of the ramp plate 10 by engaging the floor engaging portion 29 with the edge 28e of the vehicle floor 28.

[0093] (Lifting mechanism)

[0094] Next, the connection structure between the ramp plate 10 and the moving body 21 and the lifting mechanism in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment will be described.

[0095] like Figures 9-14 As shown, the movable body 21 of this embodiment includes a generally flat horizontal plate portion 30 and a longitudinal wall portion 31 erected at one end of the horizontal plate portion 30. In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the movable body 21 is formed by plastic forming. Furthermore, the movable body 21 of this embodiment has a generally L-shaped folded plate structure.

[0096] Furthermore, in the movable body 21 of this embodiment, a support shaft 33 is provided at the front end 31f of its longitudinal wall portion 31. Also, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a connecting rod member 34 that is rotatable and supported by the support shaft 33.

[0097] In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the connecting rod member 34 has a generally flat shape. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a long, generally flat side plate 35 at a position away from the connection position relative to the support shaft 33, which can be rotatably connected to the connecting rod member 34. Moreover, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the side plate 35 is integrally fixed to the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the connecting rod member 34 functions as a support arm 22 that can be rotatably connected to the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 and rotatably connected to the moving body 21.

[0098] Specifically, in this embodiment, the ramp 10 has a ramp path 12 formed at the lower end of the door opening 3, and includes a panel member 36 constituting the ramp surface 12s. Furthermore, the ramp 10 includes a pair of side frames 37, 37 extending in the front-rear direction of the ramp 10 when the panel member 36 is inserted on both sides in the width direction. The side plate 35, in its elongated flat shape, is fixed to the side end face of the side frame 37 in the extending direction of the side frame 37. In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the width direction end of the ramp 10 in the rear end portion 10r is thus formed by the side plate 35 and the side frame 37.

[0099] In addition, such as Figures 9-12 and Figures 15-18 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a driven member 40 that moves along the extension direction of the guide rail 20 and together with the connecting rod member 34.

[0100] In detail, the driven member 40 has an elongated bent plate shape with a first upright plate portion 40f and a second upright plate portion 40r, which are arranged offset from each other in the width direction of the guide rail 20. Furthermore, the width direction of the guide rail 20 can also be referred to as the width direction of the ramp plate 10. In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the driven member 40 is arranged to the side of the moving body 21 while running along the longitudinal wall portion 31. Moreover, the driven member 40 has a connecting shaft 38 that connects to the connecting rod member 34 provided in the first upright plate portion 40f. That is, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the driving force applied to the moving body 21 is transmitted to the driven member 40 via the connecting rod member 34 and the connecting shaft 38. Furthermore, the driven member 40 of this embodiment is structured to move together with the connecting rod member 34 along the extending direction of the guide rail 20.

[0101] More specifically, the driven member 40 of this embodiment has an elongated hole 41 provided in the first upright plate portion 40f and an elongated hole 42 provided in the second upright plate portion 40r. Specifically, these elongated holes 41 and 42 extend along the length of the driven member 40, which is configured along the longitudinal wall portion 31 of the moving body 21. Furthermore, the moving body 21 of this embodiment includes a locking shaft 43 protruding near the rear end portion 31r of the longitudinal wall portion 31. The driven member 40 of this embodiment is configured to be positioned to the side of the moving body 21 with the locking shaft 43 inserted into the elongated hole 42 of the second upright plate portion 40r and the support shaft 33 provided in the front end portion 31f of the longitudinal wall portion 31 inserted into the elongated hole 41 of the first upright plate portion 40f.

[0102] Furthermore, in this embodiment, one end of the connecting rod member 34 in the longitudinal direction is rotatably connected to the support shaft 44 provided on the side plate 35, and the other end of the connecting rod member 34 in the longitudinal direction is rotatably connected to the support shaft 33 provided on the longitudinal wall portion 31 of the moving body 21. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is thus structured to have a first rotatable connection point X1 between the ramp plate 10 and the support arm 22 and a second rotatable connection point X2 between the support arm 22 and the moving body 21.

[0103] Furthermore, the connecting rod member 34 of this embodiment has an elongated hole 45 extending in its length direction at a position between these first rotational connection points X1 and second rotational connection points X2. Also, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a structure in which the connecting shaft 38 of the first vertical plate portion 40f of the driven member 40 is inserted into the elongated hole 45.

[0104] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned support shafts 33, 44, connecting shaft 38, and engaging shaft 43 has a flange shape at both ends of its axial direction. Moreover, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the longitudinal wall portion 31, connecting rod member 34, side plate 35, and driven member 40 of the moving body 21 are thus stably connected.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, a deployment stop 46 is provided. This deployment stop 46 restricts the movement of the driven member 40 by abutting against the driven member 40 in the deployment direction together with the connecting rod member 34 constituting the support arm 22. In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the deployment stop 46 is located near the front end portion 20f of the guide rail 20 (see reference). Figures 3-8 Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is such that when the ramp 10 is unfolded at the lower end of the door opening 3, the unfolding direction of the ramp 10, that is, the moving position of the driven member 40 from the rear end 20r of the guide rail 20 toward the front end 20f, is fixed.

[0106] In detail, such as Figures 9-12 and Figure 18 As shown, the driven member 40 of this embodiment has a generally flat locking piece 47 extending upwards from the three sections of the second vertical plate portion 40r in a state opposite to the horizontal plate portion 30 toward the moving body 21. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the locking piece 47 abuts against the unfolding stop member 46 as the driven member 40 moves toward the front end portion 20f of the guide rail 20 in the unfolding direction of the ramp plate 10.

[0107] In addition, such as Figures 15-17 As shown, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the moving body 21 moves further toward the unfolding direction from a state in which the movement of the driven member 40 toward the unfolding direction is restricted.

[0108] That is, in this embodiment, the moving body 21 allows relative movement relative to the driven member 40 along the extending direction of the guide rail 20 by moving the support shaft 33 and the engaging shaft 43 inserted into the elongated holes 41, 42 of the driven member 40 within these elongated holes 41, 42. Furthermore, by the relative movement of the moving body 21 relative to the driven member 40, the arrangement of the connecting shaft 38 inserted into the elongated hole 45 of the connecting rod member 34 changes. Specifically, the position of the connecting shaft 38 disposed within the elongated hole 45 appears to move from the first rotational connection point X1 side to the second rotational connection point X2 side in the length direction of the elongated hole 45. Figures 15-17(From left to right). Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, a lifting mechanism 50 is thus formed, which lifts the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 upward by rotating the connecting rod member 34 constituting the support arm 22 about the connecting shaft 38 of the driven member 40.

[0109] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is configured such that the support shaft 33 of the connecting rod member 34 at the second rotational connection point X2 of the moving body 21 moves in the unfolding direction past the connecting shaft 38 of the driven member 40, whose movement in the unfolding direction is restricted by the unfolding stop member 46. Additionally, the position of the connecting shaft 38 disposed within the elongated hole 45 appears to have moved again along the length of the elongated hole 45 from the second rotational connection point X2 side towards the first rotational connection point X1 side. This results in a structure where, by ensuring a large amount of rotation of the connecting rod member 34, the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10, which is lifted upward by the rotation of the connecting rod member 34, can approach the edge 28e of the vehicle floor 28.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a locking rod 51, which engages with the locking piece 47 of the driven member 40 when the locking piece 47 abuts against the unfolding stop 46. Specifically, the locking rod 51 engages with the locking piece 47 when the locking piece 47 is sandwiched between itself and the unfolding stop 46. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the movement of the driven member 40 toward the storage direction is restricted by the locking rod 51.

[0111] like Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 18 As shown, in this embodiment, the base end of the locking rod 51, together with the unfolding stop 46, is supported by a support shaft 52 erected on the front end 20f of the guide rail 20, allowing it to rotate. Furthermore, the locking rod 51 has its top portion facing the rear end 20r of the guide rail 20, i.e., towards the retraction direction of the ramp plate 10 (in... Figure 18 The engagement lever 51 is configured in the right-hand position (in the middle). Furthermore, the engagement lever 51 has a width direction extending from its top portion towards the guide rail 20, and a direction in which the driven member 40 is located (in the middle). Figure 18 The upper side of the hook-shaped engaging portion 53 protrudes from the center. Furthermore, the engaging rod 51 of this embodiment is such that the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40 can be clamped between the engaging portion 53 and the unfolding stop member 46 by rotation about the support shaft 52.

[0112] In detail, such as Figure 18 and Figure 19As shown, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is configured such that the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40, which moves in the unfolding direction, contacts the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51. Specifically, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 has a first tapered surface 53a in the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51, facing the width direction (vertical direction in each figure) of the guide rail 20 and the direction where the driven member 40 is located. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 in this embodiment has a structure in which the first tapered surface 53a of the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 contacts the top end 47a of the engaging piece 47, which protrudes from the second vertical plate portion 40r of the driven member 40 towards the moving body 21.

[0113] Furthermore, through this contact, the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 in this embodiment rotates clockwise in each figure by being pushed open by the top end 47a of the engaging piece 47. That is, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the direction in which the engaging rod 51 is pressed and rotated by the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40 is the first direction. Moreover, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that by allowing the movement of the driven member 40 toward the unfolding direction, the engaging piece 47 is positioned to abut against the unfolding stop member 46.

[0114] In addition, such as Figures 9-12 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a connecting member 54 that is connected to the moving body 21 when fixed to the drive cable 26. That is, the connecting member 54 moves integrally with the moving body 21 based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable 26. In addition, the end of the connecting member 54 opposite to the position where the longitudinal wall portion 31 is erected is fitted into the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the connecting member 54 is formed of resin. Moreover, the connecting member 54 has a generally flat upright plate-shaped portion 55, which is erected opposite to the longitudinal wall portion 31 of the moving body 21 by fitting relative to the horizontal plate portion 30. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 has a structure in which the upright plate shape portion 55 contacts the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 by moving the moving body 21 toward the unfolding direction and the connecting member 54. The engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 rotates in the first direction by contacting the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40.

[0115] In detail, such as Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, in this embodiment, the engaging rod 51 has a second conical surface 53b in the engaging portion 53, which faces the width direction of the guide rail 20 and is opposite to the first conical surface 53a (in each figure, it is the lower side). Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the second conical surface 53b contacts the upright plate-shaped portion 55 of the connecting member 54 that moves in the unfolding direction.

[0116] Specifically, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is configured such that the top end 55f of the upright plate-shaped portion 55 contacts the second conical surface 53b of the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 after passing through the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40 which moves in the unfolding direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the top end 55f of the upright plate-shaped portion 55 also has a conical shape corresponding to the second conical surface 53b. And, through this contact, the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 rotates counterclockwise in each figure in such a way that it is pushed open by the upright plate-shaped portion 55 of the connecting member 54.

[0117] That is, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the upright plate-shaped portion 55 of the connecting member 54 constitutes a pressing portion 56 that moves integrally with the moving body 21. Moreover, at this time, the direction in which the engaging rod 51 rotates due to being pressed by the upright plate-shaped portion 55 of the connecting member 54 is the second direction. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40 is clamped between the engaging portion 53 of the engaging rod 51 and the unfolding stop member 46 in the unfolding and retracting direction of the ramp plate 10.

[0118] Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the connecting member 54 moves from this state in the unfolding direction via the moving body 21 and the connecting member 54, and the upright plate-shaped portion 55 of the connecting member 54 is arranged on the first direction side (the lower side in each figure) of the locking rod 51. Moreover, based on the arrangement of the upright plate-shaped portion 55, the rotation of the locking rod 51 in the first direction is restricted. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the state in which the locking piece 47 of the driven member 40 is clamped between the unfolding stop member 46 and the locking portion 53 of the locking rod 51 is maintained.

[0119] That is, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the driven member 40 cannot move in either the unfolding or retracting direction when the ramp plate 10 is unfolded at the lower end of the door opening 3. In other words, the moving position of the driven member 40 is fixed. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the posture of the ramp plate 10, which is lifted upward by the rear end 10r based on the action of the lifting mechanism 50, can be stably maintained.

[0120] In addition, such as Figure 19As shown, when the ramp plate 10 is retracted, the moving body 21 and the connecting member 54 are moved in the retraction direction, allowing the locking rod 51 in the first direction to rotate again. This results in a structure where, with the locking portion 53 of the locking rod 51 pushed open by the locking piece 47, the driven member 40 and the connecting rod member 34 connected to the moving body 21 move together in the retraction direction.

[0121] (Structure for maintaining the moving posture of the ramp)

[0122] Next, the structure for maintaining the moving posture of the ramp plate 10 in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment will be described.

[0123] like Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a roller 57, which is disposed on the connecting rod member 34 constituting the support arm 22. In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the roller 57 is rotatably supported by a support shaft 58 fixed to the connecting rod member 34. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, during the unfolding and retracting operation of the ramp plate 10, the roller 57 abuts against the upper wall surface 59 of the guide rail 20 from below. Moreover, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is such that, while the roller 57 slides on the upper wall surface 59 of the guide rail 20, the ramp plate 10, the moving body 21, and the connecting rod member 34 move integrally in the unfolding and retracting direction.

[0124] That is, in this embodiment, the moving body 21 of the ramp device 11, which moves in the unfolding direction along the extending direction of the guide rail 20, unfolds the ramp plate 10 out of the vehicle by squeezing it out of the storage box 13, which is connected via the connecting rod member 34. Furthermore, the moving body 21, which moves in the storage direction along the extending direction of the guide rail 20, pulls the ramp plate 10 connected via the connecting rod member 34 into the storage box 13, thus storing the ramp plate 10 inside.

[0125] like Figure 15 As shown, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is configured such that the connecting shaft 38 of the driven member 40, which is disposed in the elongated hole 45 of the connecting rod member 34, is disposed at the front end portion of the elongated hole 45 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation of the connecting rod member 34 is restricted in the direction in which the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is pulled down.

[0126] Moreover, such as Figure 22 and Figure 23As shown, by the roller 57 provided on the connecting rod member 34 abutting against the upper wall surface 59 of the guide rail 20, the rotation of the connecting rod member 34 in the direction in which the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted is restricted. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure that can stably maintain the moving posture of the ramp plate 10 at a substantially horizontal position, and can reduce the sliding resistance during the unfolding and retracting actions by rotating the roller 57.

[0127] In addition, such as Figures 11-14 , Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a roller cover 60, which covers the top of the roller 57 when the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted by the rotation of the connecting rod member 34.

[0128] Specifically, such as Figure 24 , Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown in (a) and (b), the roller cover 60 of this embodiment has a generally flat fixing portion 60a at the position where the roller 57 is sandwiched between it and the connecting rod member 34. This fixing portion 60a is fixed to the support shaft 58 of the roller 57. Furthermore, the roller cover 60 has a curved plate-shaped cover portion 60b, which is provided by extending from one end of the fixing portion 60a, which covers the axial end of the roller 57, towards the axial direction of the support shaft 58, and is positioned to partially cover the radially outer side of the roller 57. Moreover, the roller cover 60 of this embodiment is structured such that it does not rotate around the support shaft 58 of the roller 57 when the connecting rod member 34 rotates, but rotates integrally with the connecting rod member 34.

[0129] That is, such as Figures 9-14 and Figures 22-26 As shown, before the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted, that is, in the state before lifting, the cover portion 60b of the roller cover 60 in this embodiment is positioned on the unfolding direction side of the cover roller 57. Moreover, by rotating the connecting rod member 34 that lifts the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10, the cover portion 60b of the roller cover 60 is positioned above the cover roller 57. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 in this embodiment is structured such that, when the ramp plate 10 is unfolded, it protects the roller 57, which is positioned outside the guide rail 20 along with the connecting rod member 34 constituting the support arm 22.

[0130] Moreover, such as Figures 9-12 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a plurality of rollers 61 disposed on the moving body 21. That is, each of these rollers 61 also makes sliding contact with the wall surface on which the guide rail 20 is formed. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure that reduces the sliding resistance of the moving body 21 moving along the extending direction of the guide rail 20.

[0131] In addition, such as Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a protective plate 63 at a position corresponding to the front end 20f of the guide rail 20. The protective plate 63 is fixed to the vehicle body 2 in a state extending in the width direction of the ramp plate. Furthermore, a plurality of rollers 64 are provided on the protective plate 63, and these rollers 64 slide in contact with the lower surface of the ramp plate 10. The ramp plate 10 extends outward from the storage box 13 at the lower end of the door opening 3. Thus, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure that ensures the smooth unfolding and retraction of the ramp plate 10.

[0132] (Anti-fall-off components)

[0133] Next, the anti-fall-off component of the ramp 10 provided in this embodiment will be described.

[0134] like Figures 27-30 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a pair of anti-fall-off components 70, 70 provided on the left and right sides of the side frames 37, 37, which constitute the side ends of the ramp plate 10.

[0135] Specifically, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the anti-fall-off components 70, 70 have a generally flat shape extending in the longitudinal direction of the ramp plate 10. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a plurality of hinge portions 71 provided at the side frames 37, 37 constituting the side ends of the ramp plate 10. In addition, each side frame 37, 37 of this embodiment has a pair of hinge portions 71, 71 provided at two locations separated in the longitudinal direction. Moreover, the anti-fall-off components 70, 70 of this embodiment are rotatably connected to the side ends of the ramp plate 10 via these hinge portions 71.

[0136] That is, in this embodiment, when the ramp plate 10 unfolds towards the lower end of the door opening 3 and forms the ramp path 12, the ramp device 11 erects the anti-fall-off components 70, 70. Furthermore, when the ramp plate 10 is in the retracted state, or when the ramp plate 10 moves in the unfolding and retracting direction, it is a structure that allows the anti-fall-off components 70, 70 to tilt.

[0137] In detail, such as Figure 31 and Figure 32As shown, the hinge portion 71 of this embodiment includes a fixing member 72 relative to the side frame 37 and a fixing member 73 relative to the anti-falling member 70. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the height of the anti-falling member 70 near the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is set to be relatively low (see reference). Figure 27 and Figure 28 Furthermore, the hinge portion 71 includes a connecting shaft 74 that rotatably connects these fixing components 72 and 73. In this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is structured such that the anti-fall-off component 70 rotates about the rotation axis L formed by the connecting shaft 74 of each hinge portion 71, and the anti-fall-off component 70 is connected to the side frame 37 constituting the side end of the ramp plate 10.

[0138] Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a torsion coil spring 75, which is inserted into the connecting shaft 74 of the hinge portion 71. Also, the anti-fall-off member 70 of this embodiment is erected at the side end of the ramp plate 10 by the force exerted by the torsion coil spring 75.

[0139] In addition, such as Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a check block 76 disposed at the base end 70b of the anti-detachment member 70 during the retraction operation, and a pressing member 77 for pressing the check block 76. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, based on the pressing force of the pressing member 77, the anti-detachment member 70 rotates around the connecting shaft 74 of the hinge portion 71 constituting the rotation axis L. Figure 29 and Figure 30 The middle rotates clockwise. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is such that the anti-fall-off component 70 overcomes the force of the torsion coil spring 75 and tilts towards the upper surface 10s of the ramp plate 10.

[0140] Furthermore, the inspection block 76 of this embodiment has a tapered surface 76s at the position where it is pressed by the pressing member 77. Also, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the anti-falling member 70 can rotate smoothly in the tilting direction.

[0141] like Figure 33 and Figure 34As shown, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the pressing member 77 is fixed to the front end portion of the first upright plate portion 40f of the driven member 40. Furthermore, in the ramp plate 10 of this embodiment, a side plate 35 is formed at the rear end portion 10r of the ramp plate 10, which is the first rotatable connection point X1 between the ramp plate 10 and the support arm 22, and a slit 78 is formed between the side plate 35 and the side frame 37. Moreover, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment has a structure in which the pressing member 77, provided on the driven member 40, presses the inspection block 76 of the anti-detachment member 70 via the slit 78.

[0142] That is, during the retraction of the ramp plate 10, the anti-falling component 70 moves downward along with the ramp plate 10 by pulling down the rotation of the support arm 22 at the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10. Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, a pressing component 77 is disposed below the inspection block 76 located at the base end 70b of the anti-falling component 70. Moreover, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is such that the anti-falling component 70 tilts towards the upper surface 10s of the ramp plate 10 based on the retraction of the ramp plate 10.

[0143] Furthermore, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, when the ramp plate 10 moves, the driven member 40, which is provided with the pressing member 77, also continues to move along with the ramp plate 10. Moreover, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the anti-falling member 70 is kept in a tilted state by the pressing member 77 continuously pressing the inspection block 76 of the anti-falling member 70.

[0144] In addition, such as Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, during the unfolding action of the ramp 10, the rear end 10r of the ramp 10 is lifted by the rotation of the support arm 22, and the pressing force of the pressing member 77 in the direction of pushing the inspection block 76 upward weakens. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the ramp device 11 is thus able to achieve this by means of the anti-dropping member 70 based on the pressing force of the torsion coil spring 75. Figure 29 and Figure 30 The structure is such that the anti-falling component 70 is erected at the side end of the ramp plate 10 by rotating counterclockwise.

[0145] Moreover, such as Figure 33 and Figure 34As shown, the pressing member 77 of this embodiment includes an abutment piece 79, which is bent in the width direction of the ramp plate 10 and abuts against the side plate 35 that forms the side wall surface 78s of the slit 78. Specifically, in the pressing member 77 of this embodiment, the abutment piece 79 and the pushing portion 80 of the inspection block 76 of the pressing anti-drop member 70 as described above are integrally formed using resin. Furthermore, the pressing member 77 of this embodiment thus has a flexible structure for the abutment piece 79.

[0146] In addition, such as Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, in this embodiment, even when the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted upwards, the pressing member 77 maintains the state in which the abutment piece 79 abuts against the side wall surface 78s of the slit 78. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is structured such that the pressing member 77 is positioned relative to the inspection block 76 of the anti-drop member 70 facing the slit 78.

[0147] (The fitting structure of the connecting components)

[0148] Next, the fitting structure of the connecting member 54 in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment relative to the moving body 21 will be described.

[0149] like Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figures 35-38 As shown, the movable body 21 of this embodiment includes a fitting recess 81, which is provided with a cutout at one end of the horizontal plate portion 30. Specifically, in the movable body 21 of this embodiment, the fitting recess 81 is provided at the end opposite to the position where the vertical wall portion 31 is erected in the horizontal plate portion 30. Furthermore, the ramp device of this embodiment has a structure in which the connecting member 54 of the drive cable 26 is embedded in the fitting recess 81.

[0150] In detail, such as Figures 35-38 As shown, the connecting member 54 of this embodiment includes a vertical plate-shaped portion 55, which functions as a pressing portion 56 relative to the engaging piece 47 of the driven member 40 as described above. Furthermore, the connecting member 54 has a fitting portion 82 provided at the lower end of the vertical plate-shaped portion 55. In this embodiment, the connecting member 54 is connected to the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21 in an upright state where the vertical plate-shaped portion 55 faces the longitudinal wall portion 31 of the moving body 21, by fitting the fitting portion 82 into the aforementioned fitting recess 81.

[0151] More specifically, the fitting portion 82 of this embodiment includes a fitting portion body 83, which, by being disposed inside the fitting recess 81, restricts relative movement of the fitting portion body 83 relative to the extension direction (left-right direction in the figures) of the guide rail 20 of the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21. Specifically, the fitting portion body 83 is clamped on both sides of the guide rail 20 in the extension direction by being inserted into the fitting recess 81 between the front engaging piece 84f and the rear engaging piece 84r formed by the fitting recess 81 in the horizontal plate portion 30. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is such that these connecting members 54 and the moving body 21 move integrally along the extension direction of the guide rail 20 based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable 26.

[0152] Furthermore, the fitting portion 82 of this embodiment has a plurality of fitting pieces 85 that clamp the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21 in the vertical direction. Specifically, the fitting portion 82 of this embodiment has a pair of fitting pieces 85a and 85b at two positions separated in the extending direction of the guide rail 20. The pair of fitting pieces 85a and 85b have a generally flat shape that abuts against the lower surface 30b of the horizontal plate portion 30. Moreover, a fitting piece 85c is provided between these two fitting pieces 85a and 85b. The fitting piece 85c has a generally flat shape that abuts against the upper surface 30a of the horizontal plate portion 30. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure that ensures a stable fitting state between the connecting member 54 and the moving body 21 and suppresses the tilting of the vertical plate-shaped portion 55.

[0153] (Construction for storing stop components)

[0154] Next, the structure of the storage stop in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment will be described.

[0155] like Figure 39 As shown, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a retractable stop 86 fixed to the rear end 20r of the guide rail 20. That is, the retractable stop 86 is engaged with the retractable direction (in the retractable direction). Figure 39 In this embodiment, the ramp device 11 (located on the right side) abuts against the moving body 21, restricting its movement beyond the predetermined storage position P0 and toward the storage direction. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment includes a confirmation switch 87, which detects that the moving body 21 has reached the storage position P0 by contacting the rear end portion 31r of the longitudinal wall portion 31. Also, in the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, the storage stop 86 is positioned abutting against the moving body 21 when the storage stop 86 and the fitting portion 82 of the connecting member 54 relative to the moving body 21 are side-by-side in the moving direction of the moving body 21.

[0156] Specifically, in this embodiment, the storage stop 86 is positioned between the engaging portion 82 of the connecting member 54 and the rear engaging piece 84r of the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21, when the moving body 21 abuts against the storage stop 86. That is, the moving body 21 moves integrally with the connecting member 54 based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable 26. Therefore, as described above, by arranging the engaging portion 82 of the connecting member 54 and the storage stop 86 side by side in the moving direction of the moving body 21, the storage stop 86 can efficiently bear the load of the moving body 21. Furthermore, the ramp device 11 of this embodiment is a structure that can stably maintain the posture of the moving body 21 abutting against the storage stop 86.

[0157] Next, the function of this embodiment will be explained.

[0158] In the ramp device 11 of this embodiment, during the unfolding and retracting of the ramp plate 10, the roller 57 provided on the connecting rod member 34 constituting the support arm 22 abuts against the upper wall surface 59 of the guide rail 20 from below. Furthermore, by limiting the rotation of the connecting rod member 34 in the direction of lifting the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10, the moving posture of the ramp plate 10 is stably maintained.

[0159] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be explained.

[0160] (1) The ramp device 11 includes: a ramp plate 10 that unfolds at the lower end of the door opening 3; and a guide rail 20 that extends in the unfolding and retracting direction of the ramp plate 10. Additionally, the ramp device 11 includes: a movable body 21 that moves along the extending direction of the guide rail 20; and a support arm 22 that is rotatably connected to the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 and to the movable body 21. The ramp device 11 also includes a lifting mechanism 50 that lifts the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 by rotating the support arm 22 when the ramp plate 10 is unfolded. Furthermore, a roller 57 is provided on the support arm 22, and when the ramp plate 10 and the movable body 21 move together, the roller 57 maintains the moving posture of the ramp plate 10 by sliding contact with the guide rail 20.

[0161] Based on the above structure, the increase in sliding resistance can be suppressed, and the moving posture of the ramp 10 can be stably maintained. Furthermore, this ensures smooth operation and high reliability.

[0162] (2) The ramp device 11 is equipped with a roller cover 60, which covers the top of the roller 57 when the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted by the rotation of the support arm 22.

[0163] That is, the support arm 22 rotates while exposed outside the guide rail 20, causing the rear end 10r of the ramp 10 to move up and down. Therefore, the roller 57 provided on the support arm 22 is also positioned at a location where external force could easily be applied, such as when a user accidentally steps on the ramp 10. However, according to the above structure, the roller cover 60 can protect the roller 57. Furthermore, this ensures high reliability.

[0164] (3) A roller cover 60 is provided on the support arm 22. It is positioned to cover the roller 57 by rotating integrally with the support arm 22.

[0165] That is, by providing the roller cover 60 to the support arm 22, the roller cover 60 and the support arm 22 can be integrated and housed together. This simplifies and miniaturizes the structure. Furthermore, by rotating the roller cover 60 and the support arm 22 together, the direction in which the roller cover 60 covers the roller 57 can be changed. This ensures that the area of ​​sliding contact between the roller 57 and the guide rail 20 is maintained when the support arm 22 moves in the unfolding and retracting directions.

[0166] (4) The lifting mechanism 50 includes a driven member 40, which has a connecting shaft 38 connected to a connecting rod member 34 constituting the support arm 22 and moves integrally with the connecting rod member 34 in the extending direction of the guide rail 20. The lifting mechanism 50 also includes an unfolding stop 46, which abuts against the driven member 40 in the unfolding direction to restrict the movement of the driven member 40. Furthermore, by moving the moving body 21 in the unfolding direction while the movement of the driven member 40 in the unfolding direction is restricted, the lifting mechanism 50 causes the connecting rod member 34 to rotate about the connecting shaft 38 connected to the driven member 40, thereby lifting the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 upward. The lifting mechanism 50 also includes a locking rod 51, which engages with the driven member 40 in the storage direction while the driven member 40 abuts against the unfolding stop 46 to restrict the movement of the driven member 40 in the storage direction. When the driven member 40 moves to the position abutting against the unfolding stop 46, the locking lever 51 is pressed by the driven member 40 and rotates in the first direction, thereby allowing the driven member 40 to move in the unfolding direction. Furthermore, when the driven member 40 is abutting against the unfolding stop 46, the locking lever 51 is pressed by the pressing part 56 and rotates in the second direction, thereby engaging with the driven member 40. This pressing part 56 is integrally provided with the moving body 21 moving in the unfolding direction. In this state, the locking lever 51 restricts rotation in the first direction by the pressing part 56 located in the first direction.

[0167] According to the above structure, the connecting rod component 34 constituting the support arm 22 is linked to the moving body 21, which moves along the guide rail 20 in the unfolding and retracting direction. Furthermore, this allows the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 connected to the connecting rod component 34 to move up and down.

[0168] Furthermore, in the raised state where the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is lifted upwards, the moving position of the driven member 40 can be fixed. Thus, the raised state can be stably maintained. Moreover, the driven member 40 can be linked with the moving body 21, which moves in the unfolding and retracting direction, to engage and disengage with the engaging rod 51. This simplifies the structure.

[0169] (5) The driven member 50 has a locking piece 47, which engages with the locking rod 51 when it abuts against the unfolding stop 46 and is clamped between the unfolding stop 46 and the locking rod 51. Thus, with a simple structure, the movement of the driven member 40 can be stably restricted in both unfolding and retracting directions.

[0170] (6) The driven member 40 has a bent plate shape having a first upright plate portion 40f and a second upright plate portion 40r, the first upright plate portion 40f and the second upright plate portion 40r being arranged at a position offset from each other in the width direction of the guide rail 20.

[0171] Based on the above structure, the driven member 40, which moves together with the movable body 21 and the support arm 22 in the unfolding and retracting directions, can be easily and space-savingly formed with a simple structure. Furthermore, based on the shape of the folded plate, tipping of the driven member 40 can be suppressed. This ensures stable operation.

[0172] (7) The ramp device 11 includes an anti-fall-off member 70, which is rotatably connected to the ramp plate 10; and a torsion coil spring 75, which acts as a force-applying member to apply force to the anti-fall-off member 70, causing the anti-fall-off member 70 to stand upright at the side end of the ramp plate 10. Additionally, the ramp device 11 includes a pressing member 77, which presses the anti-fall-off member 70 to overcome the force of the torsion coil spring 75, causing the anti-fall-off member 70 to tilt towards the upper surface 10s of the ramp plate 10. The pressing member 77 is inserted into the slit 78 formed in the ramp plate 10 by pulling down the rotation of the support arm 22 at the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10, thereby pressing the anti-fall-off member 70, which moves downwards along with the ramp plate 10. Furthermore, the pressing member 77 is positioned by being provided on the driven member 40 to abut against the anti-fall-off member 70 and press it down. Furthermore, the pressing member 77 has a flexible abutment piece 79 that bends in the width direction of the ramp plate 10 and abuts against the side wall surface 78s of the slit 78.

[0173] That is, when the support arm 22, which is connected to the rear end 10r of the ramp 10, is rotating, the movement of the driven member 40 is restricted. Therefore, by providing a pressing member 77 to the driven member 40, it is possible to stably link with the up-and-down movement of the ramp 10 caused by the rotation of the support arm 22, so that the anti-falling member 70 stands upright at the side end of the ramp 10 and tilts towards the upper surface 10s of the ramp 10. Moreover, by abutting the abutting piece 79 of the pressing member 77 against the side wall surface 78s of the slit 78, the pressing member 77 can be positioned relative to the anti-falling member 70 facing the slit 78. Furthermore, by the elastic force based on the flexibility given to the abutting piece 79, positional deviations caused by displacement in the width direction of the ramp 10 can be suppressed.

[0174] (8) The ramp device 11 includes a connecting member 54, which is connected to the moving body 21 while fixed to the drive cable 26, and thus moves integrally with the moving body 21 based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable 26. The moving body 21 is a folded plate shape having a horizontal plate portion 30 and a vertical wall portion 31. The horizontal plate portion 30 is connected to the connecting member 54, and the vertical wall portion 31 is connected to the support arm 22. Furthermore, the connecting member 54 includes a vertical plate-shaped portion 55 that forms a pressing portion 56 for the engaging rod 51, and a fitting portion 82 for the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21 is provided at the lower end of the vertical plate-shaped portion 55. The fitting portion 82 includes a plurality of fitting pieces 85 that clamp the horizontal plate portion 30 of the moving body 21 in the vertical direction.

[0175] That is, by providing a pressing part 56 for the engaging rod 51 on the connecting member 54 that moves integrally with the moving body 21, it is possible to coordinate with the moving body 21 moving in the unfolding and retracting direction to control the engagement and disengagement of the engaging rod 51 relative to the driven member 40 with high precision. Furthermore, this ensures stable operation.

[0176] Furthermore, by employing a structure that connects the connecting member 54 and the movable body 21 through a fitting, the assembly process can be simplified. Moreover, by clamping the horizontal plate portion 30 of the movable body 21 in the vertical direction with multiple fitting pieces 85, tipping of the vertical plate-shaped portion 55 provided on the connecting member 54 can be suppressed. Furthermore, this avoids an increase in sliding resistance caused by changes in the moving posture of the connecting member 54 and the movable body 21.

[0177] (9) The ramp device 11 includes a storage stop 86, which restricts the movement of the moving body 21 in the storage direction by abutting against it, thus preventing it from passing a predetermined storage position P0. Furthermore, when the storage stop 86 and the fitting portion 82 of the connecting member 54 are arranged side by side in the unfolding and storage directions, the storage stop 86 is positioned to abut against the moving body 21.

[0178] That is, the movable body 21 moves integrally with the connecting member 54 based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable 26. Therefore, by adopting the above structure, the storage stop 86 can efficiently bear the load of the movable body 21. Furthermore, the posture of the movable body 21 abutting against the storage stop 86 can be stably maintained. As a result, excessive strength margins can be eliminated, and the movable body 21 can be made lighter.

[0179] Furthermore, the above embodiments can be modified and implemented as follows. The above embodiments and the following modifications can be combined with each other to implement them within the scope of technical inconsistency.

[0180] Although in the above embodiment the roller cover 60 is fixed to the support shaft 58 of the roller 57, the fixed position of the roller cover 60 relative to the support arm 22 can be arbitrarily changed. Furthermore, the shape of the roller cover 60 can also be arbitrarily changed.

[0181] Furthermore, when the rear end 10r of the ramp plate 10 is raised by the rotation of the support arm 22, the roller cover 60 can be positioned in a location other than the support arm 22, as long as it can cover the top of the roller 57. For example, the roller cover 60 can be provided to extend from the front end 20f of the guide rail 20. Moreover, the roller cover 60 can also be movable.

[0182] The shape, material, and support structure of the deployable stop 46 can be arbitrarily changed. Similarly, the structure for housing the stop 86 can also be arbitrarily changed.

[0183] Furthermore, the shape and material of the engaging piece 47 and the engaging rod 51 can be arbitrarily changed. Moreover, the shape of the driven member 40 can also be arbitrarily changed. For example, the engaging position of the engaging rod 51 relative to the contact position of the unfolding stop 46 does not necessarily have to be the engaging piece 47. Furthermore, the structure of the pressing part 56 of the engaging rod 51 provided on the moving body 21 can also be arbitrarily changed.

[0184] In the above embodiment, the anti-fall-off component 70 is subjected to force based on the elastic force of the torsion coil spring 75. However, it is not limited to this; for example, a compression spring, leaf spring, or other elastic component may also be used, and the structure of the force-applying component may be arbitrarily changed.

[0185] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the width-direction end of the ramp plate 10 in the rear end portion 10r, i.e., the side end portion, is formed by the side plate 35 and the side frame 37. The side plate 35 forms a slit 78 between itself and the side frame 37, constituting the side wall surface 78s. However, this is not a limitation; the side end portion of the ramp plate 10 can have any structure. Furthermore, the structural components of the slit 78 and its side wall surface 78s can be arbitrarily changed. Also, the direction in which the abutting piece 79 of the pressing member 77 abuts against the side wall surface 78s of the slit 78 can be arbitrarily changed.

[0186] The structure of the lifting mechanism 50 can be modified arbitrarily. For example, it can have an independent drive source and does not necessarily have to be linked with the moving body 21 that moves in the unfolding and retracting direction. Furthermore, it can also be applied to a structure in which the ramp plate 10 moves in the unfolding and retracting direction by a drive source other than the motor 24.

Claims

1. A ramp device for vehicles, characterized in that, have: A ramp that unfolds at the lower end of the door opening; A guide rail that extends in the unfolding and retracting direction of the ramp plate; A moving body that moves along the extension direction of the guide rail; A support arm, which is rotatably connected relative to the rear end of the ramp plate and rotatably connected relative to the moving body; as well as A lifting mechanism that, when the ramp is in the deployed state, lifts the rear end of the ramp by rotating the support arm. Furthermore, a roller is provided on the support arm. When the ramp plate and the moving body move as a unit, the roller maintains the moving posture of the ramp plate by sliding contact with the guide rail. The lifting mechanism has the following features: A driven component having a connecting shaft to the support arm and moving together with the support arm in the extending direction of the guide rail; as well as An unfolding stop is provided, which abuts against the driven member facing the unfolding direction to restrict the movement of the driven member. By moving the moving body in the unfolding direction while the movement of the driven member in the unfolding direction is restricted, the lifting mechanism causes the support arm to rotate about the connecting shaft connected to the driven member, thereby lifting the rear end of the ramp plate upward. The lifting mechanism includes a locking rod. When the driven member is in contact with the unfolding stop, the locking rod engages with the driven member to restrict the movement of the driven member toward the storage direction. As the driven member moves toward the position abutting against the unfolding stop, the locking lever is pressed by the driven member and rotates in the first direction, thereby allowing movement of the driven member toward the unfolding direction. When the driven member abuts against the unfolding stop, the locking rod is pressed by the pressing part and rotates in the second direction, thereby engaging with the driven member. The locking rod restricts rotation in the first direction by the pressing part located in the first direction, and the pressing part is integrally provided with the moving body that moves in the unfolding direction.

2. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device is equipped with a roller cover that covers the top of the roller when the rear end of the ramp is lifted by the rotation of the support arm.

3. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The roller cover is disposed on the support arm and positioned to cover the roller by rotating integrally with the support arm.

4. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driven component includes a locking piece that engages with the locking rod when it abuts against the unfolding stop and is clamped between the unfolding stop and the locking rod.

5. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 1 or 4, characterized in that, The driven component has a bent plate shape with a first upright plate and a second upright plate, which are arranged at offset positions in the width direction of the guide rail.

6. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 1, characterized in that, have: An anti-fall-off component, which is rotatably connected relative to the ramp plate; A force-applying component applies force to the anti-detachment component, causing the anti-detachment component to stand upright at the side end of the ramp plate; as well as The pressing component, by rotating the support arm at the rear end of the upward-lifted ramp plate, abuts against and presses the anti-detachment component, which moves downward along with the ramp plate. This overcomes the force of the applying component, causing the anti-detachment component to tilt towards the upper surface of the ramp plate. The pressing member is positioned to abut against the anti-falling member by being disposed within the driven member and inserted into a slit formed at the side end of the ramp plate. Furthermore, the pressing member has a flexible abutment piece that bends in the width direction of the ramp plate and abuts against the side wall of the slit.

7. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a connecting component that connects to the movable body while fixed to a drive cable, thereby moving integrally with the movable body based on the driving force transmitted via the drive cable. The movable body is shaped like a folded plate with a horizontal plate portion and a vertical wall portion. The horizontal plate portion is connected to the connecting member, and the vertical wall portion is connected to the support arm. The connecting member includes: a vertical plate-shaped portion that forms the pressing portion for the engaging rod; and a fitting portion disposed at the lower end of the vertical plate-shaped portion and having a plurality of fitting pieces that clamp the horizontal plate portion in the vertical direction, and the connecting member is connected to the movable body.

8. The vehicle ramp device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The device includes a storage stop that, by abutting against the moving body moving in the storage direction, restricts the movement of the moving body past a predetermined storage position toward the storage direction. Furthermore, when the fitting portion of the storage stop and the connecting component are arranged side by side in the unfolding and storage direction, the storage stop is positioned to abut against the moving body.

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