Steering device

Abstract

A steering device is provided with an inner column, an outer column, a hanger, and a fixing member. The hanger has a guide hole extending in the front-rear direction and through which the shaft portion of the fixing member passes. A first region, against which the seat portion of the fixing member abuts to fix the hanger to the inner column, and a second region, which is disposed on the front side of the first region and opposes the seat portion when the seat portion is displaced forward together with the inner column due to input of a secondary collision load, are provided at the edge of the guide hole. The frictional restraint force between the seat portion in a state in which the seat portion is displaced to a position opposing the second region and the edge of the guide hole is set to be smaller than the frictional restraint force between the seat portion in a position opposing the first region and the edge of the guide hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to steering devices. Background Technology

[0002] The steering system includes a telescopic steering mechanism that adjusts the fore-and-aft position of the steering wheel according to the driver's physique and driving posture. This steering system comprises: an inner column that supports the steering shaft for rotation; and an outer column that supports the inner column for movement in the fore-and-aft direction.

[0003] The steering system includes a mechanism that, in the event of a secondary collision, mitigates the impact load applied to the driver by moving the inner column forward relative to the outer column (crush stroke) when a specified load is applied to the steering wheel by the occupant.

[0004] Here, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which the steering column is supported by a bracket via inclined plates provided on the left and right sides of the steering column. Specifically, in the configuration of Patent Document 1, an inclined pin protruding from the bracket is held in a hole formed in the inclined plate, thereby supporting the steering column. A guide hole is formed in the inclined plate in a manner continuous with the rear side of the hole. A bulge with a gradually increasing rearward height is fixed to the lower surface of the front part of the steering column at the position supported by the bracket.

[0005] In the steering mechanism described in Patent Document 1, during the crushing stroke, as the inner column moves forward, the tilting pin disengages from the bore and moves relative to it within the elongated bore. At this time, the steering column's posture is stabilized by the guiding function of the elongated bore, and the bracket abuts against the bulge, thereby gradually deforming the bulge and absorbing the energy of the impact load.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-338551 Summary of the Invention

[0009] However, in the aforementioned steering mechanism, there is still room for improvement in achieving stable energy absorption performance under secondary collision loads while achieving miniaturization and cost reduction.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a steering device that can obtain stable energy absorption performance when a secondary collision load is input, based on miniaturization and low cost.

[0011] To solve the above problems, the present invention adopts the following configuration.

[0012] (1) A steering device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: an inner column that supports a steering shaft for rotation; an outer column that is supported on a vehicle body while being restricted from displacement in the longitudinal direction, and the inner column is inserted therein for position adjustment in the longitudinal direction; a hanger that is fitted to the inner column and has a stop portion that limits excessive displacement of the inner column by abutting against a displacement limiting portion on the side of the outer column when the inner column is displaced in the longitudinal direction; and a fixing member that comprises: a shaft portion that passes through the hanger and is coupled to the inner column at one end; and a seat portion that is provided at the other end of the shaft portion for pressing and fixing the hanger to the inner column, the hanger having an extension along the longitudinal direction and a seat portion for mounting the inner column. The guide hole through the shaft portion of the fixing member has the following features at the edge of the guide hole of the hanger: a first region for the seat portion of the fixing member to abut against to fix the hanger to the inner column; and a second region adjacent to the front side of the first region, which is opposite to the seat portion when the seat portion and the inner column are displaced forward due to a secondary collision load input to the steering shaft. The frictional constraint force between the seat portion and the edge of the guide hole in the state where the seat portion is displaced to the position opposite to the second region is set to be smaller than the frictional constraint force between the seat portion and the edge of the guide hole in the position where the seat portion is opposite to the first region.

[0013] According to the above configuration, when adjusting the front-to-back position of the inner column, the stop part of the hanger abuts against the displacement limiting part on the outer column side, thereby limiting excessive displacement of the inner column. At this time, since the hanger is integrally fixed to the inner column by the fixing member, excessive displacement of the inner column in the front-to-back direction can be limited by the hanger.

[0014] On the other hand, with the inner pillar fixed at any position, when a secondary impact load from the occupant is input to the steering axle, the inner pillar will shift forward against the constraint force of the outer pillar on the inner pillar. When the inner pillar has shifted forward by a predetermined amount, the stop portion of the hanger abuts against the displacement limiting portion on the outer pillar side. At this time, when a secondary impact load is further input to the steering axle, the reaction force on the hanger from the displacement limiting portion on the outer pillar side will increase. As a result, the fixing member will shift forward together with the inner pillar against the frictional constraint force of the fixing member's seat on the first region (edge ​​of the guide hole) of the hanger. At this time, in the second region adjacent to the front side of the first region, the frictional constraint force between the fixing member's seat and the edge of the guide hole is relatively small, so the fixing member will smoothly shift to the region where the seat is opposite to the second region. That is, the fixing member begins to shift relative to the hanger with a relatively small initial working load. Subsequently, as the axial portion of the fixed component is guided by the guide hole, the inner column's restraint against the hanger and the outer column's restraint further and smoothly shifts forward. The energy of the secondary impact load from the occupant input to the steering axle is stably absorbed during this period.

[0015] (2) In the above scheme (1), the protrusion height of the second region in the direction opposite to the seat is set to be lower than the protrusion height of the first region in the direction opposite to the seat.

[0016] In this case, the protrusion height of the second region opposite to the seat of the fixing member is lower than that of the first region. Therefore, the frictional force acting between the seat and the edge of the guide hole in the second region is smaller than that acting between the seat and the edge of the guide hole in the first region. In this configuration, it is a simple configuration in which the protrusion height of the second region in the direction opposite to the seat of the fixing member is lower than that of the first region, and it can suppress the initial load when a secondary impact load is input relatively small, thus smoothly absorbing the energy of the secondary impact load.

[0017] In this configuration, since the protrusion height of the second region, opposite to the seat of the fixed member, is lower than that of the first region, if the seat of the fixed member shifts relative to the position opposite to the second region when a secondary impact load is applied, the pressing load of the hanger on the inner column caused by the seat will also decrease. As a result, the frictional resistance between the hanger and the inner column becomes smaller. Therefore, with this configuration, the later stages of the crushing stroke during the application of a secondary impact load can be smoother, further improving energy absorption performance.

[0018] (3) In the above scheme (2), the first region and the second region may also be formed by an integral metal component.

[0019] In this case, the first and second regions with different protrusion heights can be easily shaped by stamping or other methods, and the number of parts can be reduced.

[0020] (4) In the above scheme (2), a spacer member may be provided in the first region such that the height of the first region in the direction opposite to the seat is higher than the height of the second region in the direction opposite to the seat.

[0021] In this configuration, the heights of the first and second regions can be easily changed simply by arranging separate spacer members in the first region of the hanger. Therefore, this configuration simplifies the structure of the main body of the hanger (excluding the spacer members) and further improves productivity.

[0022] (5) In any of the above schemes (1) to (4), the above-mentioned fixing member may be composed of a tightening member that can manage the tightening torque.

[0023] In this case, by using a locking member as a fixing member and managing the tightening torque of the locking member, the frictional constraint force of the fixing member's seat on the hanger can be accurately set and adjusted. Therefore, with this configuration, the hanger's fixation relative to the inner column during normal use becomes reliable, and stable energy absorption performance as set can be obtained when a secondary impact load is input.

[0024] (6) In any of the above schemes (1) to (5), multiple fixing members are arranged at axially spaced positions on the inner column, and the hanger is fixed to multiple axially spaced positions on the inner column by each of the fixing members. The hanger is provided with the first region and the second region respectively in a manner corresponding to each of the fixing members.

[0025] In this configuration, when a secondary impact load is applied, multiple fixed members can share the guiding function of the shaft portion of the fixed member and the guide hole, as well as the fixing and sliding of the seat portion of the fixed member and the edge portion of the guide hole. Therefore, the behavior (crushing stroke) of the inner column under a secondary impact load can be made more stable.

[0026] In this configuration, since the hanger is fixed to the inner column at spaced intervals in the front-rear direction by multiple fixing members, when the stop portion of the hanger abuts against the displacement limiting portion on the outer column side, the front-rear end of the hanger can be prevented from separating (lifting) from the inner column. Therefore, with this configuration, the commercial viability of the steering device when adjusting the front-rear position of the inner column can be improved, and the operation of the hanger and inner column can be stabilized when a secondary collision load is input.

[0027] (7) In the above scheme (6), the second region corresponding to a portion of the above-mentioned fixing member may be configured such that the frictional constraint force between the seat portion of the fixing member and the edge portion of the guide hole when the seat portion of the fixing member is moved to a position opposite to the second region is the same as the frictional constraint force between the seat portion of the fixing member and the edge portion of the guide hole in the first region.

[0028] In this case, the frictional constraint force of the seat of a portion of the aforementioned fixed component on the hanger remains unchanged during the initial and later stages of operation when a secondary impact load is applied. Therefore, the sliding resistance can be increased during the later stages of operation when a secondary impact load is applied, thereby increasing the energy absorption during the crushing stroke.

[0029] (8) In the above scheme (1), the protrusion height of the second region in the direction opposite to the seat gradually decreases from the rear end toward the front side.

[0030] In this case, when a secondary impact load is applied, if the seat of the fixing member shifts from a position opposite to the first region to a position opposite to the second region, the frictional constraint force of the seat of the fixing member on the edge of the guide hole will gradually decrease accordingly with the forward displacement of the fixing member (inner post). As a result, the displacement of the inner post is smoother in the later stages of the crushing stroke.

[0031] The solution of this invention, when subjected to a secondary impact load, stably maintains the posture of the inner column through the guiding action of the guide hole of the hanger and the shaft of the fixing member. Furthermore, the seat of the fixing member smoothly shifts from a position opposite to the first region of the hanger to a position opposite to the second region, thus smoothly absorbing the energy of the secondary impact load. Therefore, the solution of this invention provides a simple structure that avoids large size and increased cost, while also achieving stable energy absorption performance under secondary impact loads. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the steering device according to the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of the steering device according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line III-III.

[0035] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line IV-IV.

[0036] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The VI view.

[0038] Figure 7 It is Figure 5 A portion of the cross-sectional view is shown in an enlarged form.

[0039] Figure 8 This is a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the forward travel of the inner column and the load acting between the inner and outer columns when a secondary collision load is input into the steering device of the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 9 The steering device of the second embodiment and Figure 7 The corresponding cross-sectional view.

[0041] Figure 10 This is a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the forward travel of the inner column and the load acting between the inner and outer columns when a secondary collision load is input into the steering device of the second embodiment.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a variation of the second embodiment shown. Figure 9 (a) is the same cross-sectional view.

[0043] Figure 12 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the assembly portion of the steering device hanger in the third embodiment.

[0044] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The XIII view.

[0045] Figure 14 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the assembly portion of the steering device hanger in the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments described below, common parts will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0047] [First Implementation]

[0048] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the steering device 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a bottom view of steering device 1. Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line III-III.

[0049] The steering device 1 is located in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle. The steering device 1 adjusts the steering angle of the vehicle's front wheels by the driver's rotation of the steering wheel 2. The steering device 1 has a telescopic function to adjust the fore-and-aft position of the steering wheel 2 according to the driver's physique and driving posture, and a tilt function to adjust the tilt angle of the steering wheel 2 in the vertical direction. Hereinafter, the action of the steering device 1 performed by the telescopic function will be referred to as the "telescopic action".

[0050] The steering device 1 includes a column unit 11, a steering shaft 12, a front bracket 13 and a rear bracket 14, and a locking mechanism 15. The column unit 11 and the steering shaft 12 are formed along the axis o1. In the following description, the direction of extension of the axis o1 of the column unit 11 and the steering shaft 12 is sometimes referred to as the axial direction of the shaft, the direction orthogonal to the axis o1 is referred to as the radial direction of the shaft, and the direction about the axis o1 is referred to as the circumferential direction of the shaft.

[0051] In this embodiment, the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle with its axis o1 tilted vertically relative to the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Specifically, the axis o1 of the steering device 1 is tilted such that its height increases as it moves rearward. However, for ease of explanation, in the steering device 1, the direction upward toward the steering wheel 2 along the axis will be simply referred to as rearward, and the direction to the side opposite to the steering wheel 2 will be simply referred to as forward. The vertical direction of the steering device 1 in the radial direction of the axis when mounted on the vehicle will be simply referred to as the vertical direction, and the horizontal direction of the steering device 1 in the radial direction of the axis when mounted on the vehicle will be simply referred to as the horizontal direction.

[0052] The diagram shows an arrow pointing "forward" (FR), an arrow pointing "upward" (UP), and an arrow pointing "to the left" (LH).

[0053] <Column Unit 11>

[0054] The column unit 11 includes an outer column 21, an inner column 22, and a hanger 23.

[0055] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line IV-IV.

[0056] The outer pillar 21 is fixed to the vehicle body via the front bracket 13 and the rear bracket 14. The outer pillar 21 has a retaining cylinder portion 24 and a pair of fastening portions 25.

[0057] The cylindrical portion 24 is formed as a cylinder extending in the front-to-back direction. For example... Figure 3As shown, the front bearing 27 is fitted (pressed in) into the front end portion of the retaining sleeve 24. A slit 28 extending in the front-rear direction is formed in the area of ​​the retaining sleeve 24, excluding the front end portion. In this embodiment, the slit 28 is provided on the lower side of the outer column 21. The slit 28 penetrates the outer column 21 radially along the shaft and is open on the rear end side of the outer column 21.

[0058] like Figure 4 As shown, the fastening portions 25 extend downward from the retaining cylinder portion 24, clamping the slit 28 in the middle, and are respectively positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction. Each fastening portion 25 has a through hole 29 that extends through the fastening portion 25 in the left-right direction.

[0059] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 As shown, the inner post 22 is cylindrical and extends in the front-rear direction. The outer diameter of the inner post 22 is smaller than the inner diameter of the retaining cylinder 24. The inner post 22 is inserted into the retaining cylinder 24 from the rear. The inner post 22 is configured to move relative to the outer post 21 in the front-rear direction. Figure 3 As shown, the rear bearing 30 is fitted (pressed into) the rear end of the inner column 22.

[0060] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0061] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, the hanger 23 is fixed downwards to the lower surface of the inner column 22 near the front. In this embodiment, the hanger 23 is integrally formed of a metal material. The hanger 23 can be formed, for example, by stamping a metal sheet. Figure 2 As shown, the hanger 23 protrudes from the outside (below) of the retaining sleeve 24 through the slit 28 of the retaining sleeve 24. As... Figure 4 As shown, the hanger 23 is formed in a roughly U-shaped form with an opening downwards in the front view (front view) when viewed from the front and back.

[0062] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A VI-direction view. In Figure 6 In the image, the collar 56 and locking bolt 53, which will be described later, are depicted by imaginary lines.

[0063] The hanger 23 includes: a mounting plate portion 31, which is arranged axially along the inner column 22; and a pair of side walls 32, which extend downward from both ends of the mounting plate portion 31 in the left-right direction.

[0064] The mounting plate portion 31 extends along the lower surface of the inner column 22 in the front-to-back direction, with its thickness along the vertical direction. When viewed from below, the mounting plate portion 31 is generally rectangular in shape, elongated in the front-to-back direction. A guide hole 34 is formed in the mounting plate portion 31, penetrating it in the vertical direction. The guide hole 34 is a slit-like hole that extends longer in the front-to-back direction than its width in the horizontal direction. The detailed shape of the guide hole 34 will be described later.

[0065] The hanger 23 is fixed to two positions spaced apart in the front-rear direction on the lower surface of the inner column 22 by two bolts 39F and 39R, which serve as fastening members (fixing members). Figure 5 As shown, each bolt 39F and 39R has: a shaft portion 39a that extends vertically through the mounting plate portion 31 (guide hole 34 portion) of the hanger 23, and is coupled to the inner column 22 at one end (upper end); and a head 39b that is integrally provided with the other end (lower end) of the shaft portion 39a. The head 39b fixes the hanger 23 to the inner column 22 by abutting against the mounting plate portion 31 (edge ​​of guide hole 34) of the hanger 23 and pressing the mounting plate portion 31 against the lower surface of the inner column 22. The shaft portion 39a of the rear bolt 39R is coupled to the lower surface of the inner column 22 at approximately the central position in the axial direction, and the shaft portion 39a of the front bolt 39F is coupled to the lower surface of the inner column 22 at a position further forward than the central position.

[0066] In this embodiment, the head 39b of bolts 39F and 39R constitutes the seat of the set member (fixed member).

[0067] In this embodiment, the bolts 39F and 39R are described as being directly fixed to the inner post 22 as fastening members (fixing members), but this configuration is not limited to. For example, the bolts 39F and 39R can also be fastened to the inner post 22 by screwing them into a nut provided on the inside of the inner post 22. The fastening member (fixing member) can also be composed of a double-ended bolt protruding from the inner post 22 and a nut that engages with the double-ended bolt. In this case, the nut constitutes a seat.

[0068] Furthermore, the fixing member is not limited to a fastening member; rivets without a screw engagement device can also be used. When the fixing member is made of a rivet, the head of the rivet forms the seat.

[0069] The side wall 32 of the hanger 23 is formed over the entire area of ​​the mounting plate portion 31 in the front-rear direction. The side wall 32 includes: a telescopic guide portion 32a, whose downward protrusion height is constant; and a pair of stop portions 32b and 32c, whose protrusion height is higher than that of the telescopic guide portion 32a.

[0070] The telescopic guide portion 32a is formed in the area of ​​the side wall 32 excluding the front and rear ends. The lower edge of the telescopic guide portion 32a is formed in a straight line along the front-rear direction. One of the stop portions 32b and 32c (32b) is integrally formed with the front end of the telescopic guide portion 32a, and the other (32c) is integrally formed with the rear end of the telescopic guide portion 32a. The front and rear stop portions 32b and 32c protrude downward relative to the telescopic guide portion 32a.

[0071] During telescoping, the front stop 32b abuts against the locking bolt 53 (described later) via the sleeve 56, thereby restricting the rearward displacement of the inner post 22 relative to the outer post 21. During telescoping, the rear stop 32c abuts against the locking bolt 53 (described later) via the sleeve 56, thereby restricting the forward displacement of the inner post 22 relative to the outer post 21. The rear edge of the front stop 32b and the front edge of the rear stop 32c are formed into an arc shape that approximately matches the arc shape of the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve 56.

[0072] <Steering Axle 12>

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, the steering shaft 12 has an outer shaft 37 and an inner shaft 38.

[0074] The outer shaft 37 is formed as a hollow cylinder extending in the front-rear direction. The outer shaft 37 is inserted into the column unit 11. The front end of the outer shaft 37 is pressed into the front bearing 27 within the outer column 21. Thus, the outer shaft 37 is supported by the outer column 21 to rotate about the axis o1. The front end of the outer shaft 37 (the portion protruding forward from the front bearing 27) is connected to, for example, a steering gearbox (not shown) via a universal joint (not shown).

[0075] The inner shaft 38, like the outer shaft 37, is formed as a hollow cylinder extending in the front-to-back direction. The inner shaft 38 is inserted into the inner column 22. The rear end of the inner shaft 38 is pressed into the rear bearing 30 within the inner column 22. Thus, the inner shaft 38 is supported by the inner column 22 and can rotate about axis o1. Steering wheel 2 (see reference) Figure 1 It can be rotatably connected to the part of the inner shaft 38 that protrudes rearward from the inner column 22.

[0076] The front end of the inner shaft 38 is inserted into the outer shaft 37 within the inner post 22. The inner shaft 38 is configured to move in the front-back direction relative to the outer shaft 37 along with the inner post 22 as the inner post 22 moves relative to the outer post 21.

[0077] In this embodiment, a female spline is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the outer shaft 37. The female spline engages with a male spline formed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner shaft 38. As a result, the inner shaft 38 is displaced in the front-rear direction relative to the outer shaft 37 while its relative rotation with respect to the outer shaft 37 is restricted. However, the telescoping structure and rotation-restricting structure of the steering shaft 12 can be appropriately modified.

[0078] In this embodiment, a configuration in which the outer shaft 37 is positioned in front of the inner shaft 38 is described. However, this configuration is not limited to this one; the outer shaft 37 may also be positioned behind the inner shaft 38.

[0079] <Front Bracket 13>

[0080] like Figure 1 As shown, the front support 13 is formed in a downwardly opening U-shape in the front view. The front support 13 surrounds the front end of the outer pillar 21 from both above and left and right sides. The front sidewalls 13a on both sides of the front support 13 in the left and right directions are rotatably connected to the front end of the outer pillar 21 via pivot 40. Thus, the outer pillar 21 is supported by the front support 13 so that it can rotate about an axis o2 extending in the left and right directions of the pivot 40. Therefore, the front end of the outer pillar 21 is supported on the vehicle body in a state where it can rotate about the axis o2 and its displacement in the front and rear directions is restricted.

[0081] <Rear bracket 14>

[0082] The rear support 14 is formed in a roughly U-shaped (roughly コ-shaped) form with an opening downwards in the front view. The rear support 14 surrounds the upper and left and right sides of the rear region of the outer pillar 21. The rear support 14 holds the rear region of the outer pillar 21 in place by the locking mechanism 15, which will be described later. The rear support 14 is fixed to the vehicle body by bolts or the like, so the rear region of the outer pillar 21 is supported to the vehicle body by the locking mechanism 15 and the rear support 14.

[0083] The rear support 14 of this embodiment is formed from a sheet of metal cut to a predetermined shape by stamping or other processes. The rear support 14 includes: rear sidewalls 14a disposed on the left and right sides of the column unit 11; fixing flanges 14c extending outwardly in a curved manner from the upper ends of each of the left and right rear sidewalls 14a; and connecting walls 14d connecting the rear portions of the left and right rear sidewalls 14a to each other. The connecting walls 14d are disposed on the front side compared to the left and right fixing flanges 14c and the left and right rear sidewalls 14a, and are shaped into a generally U-shape by bending them to cross the top of the retaining cylinder portion 24 of the outer column 21.

[0084] like Figure 4As shown, inclined guide holes 14b are formed on the left and right rear sidewalls 14a, extending through the rear sidewalls 14a in the left-right direction. The inclined guide holes 14b are formed in an arc shape centered on the axis o2 of the pivot 40.

[0085] The shaft portion of the locking bolt 53, which will be described later, is inserted through the inclined guide hole 14b on each of the left and right rear sidewalls 14a. The shaft portion of the locking bolt 53 extends in the left-right direction. When the column unit 11 tilts up and down around the pivot 40, the inclined guide hole 14b allows the locking bolt 53, which is moved integrally with the column unit 11, to swing up and down in the vertical direction.

[0086] The front support 13 and the rear support 14 are connected to each other by a connecting piece 100. The connecting piece 100 extends in the left-right direction as its thickness direction and in the front-back direction, connecting the right front sidewall 13a of the front support 13 to the right rear sidewall 14a of the rear support 14. However, the connecting piece 100 is not an essential component.

[0087] <Locking Mechanism 15>

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the locking mechanism 15 includes a locking bolt 53, an operating lever 54, and a locking cam 55.

[0089] The locking bolt 53 passes through the inclined guide holes 14b of the left and right rear sidewalls 14a of the rear bracket 14 and the through holes 29 of the left and right fastening portions 25 of the outer column 21 in the left-right direction. A sleeve 56 is installed in the central region of the locking bolt 53 (the portion located between the left and right fastening portions 25 of the outer column 21). The sleeve 56 is formed as a cylindrical shape coaxial with the locking bolt 53. The sleeve 56 is made of a material softer than the locking bolt 53 (e.g., a resiliently deformable material such as rubber or resin).

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown, during the telescopic movement, when the inner column 22 is at its foremost position (when the column unit 11 is in its most retracted state), the stop 32c on the rear side of the hanger 23 abuts against the sleeve 56 from the rear. During the telescopic movement, when the inner column 22 is at its rearmost position (when the column unit 11 is in its most extended state), the stop 32b on the front side of the hanger 23 abuts against the sleeve 56 from the front. That is, when the hanger 23 and the inner column 22 move together in the front-rear direction during the telescopic movement, either the front or rear stop 32b or 32c of the hanger 23 abuts against the locking bolt 53 via the sleeve 56, thereby limiting excessive front-rear displacement of the inner column 22. During the telescopic movement, the lower edge of the telescopic guide 32a of the hanger 23 guides the relative front-rear displacement of the sleeve 56 (locking bolt 53).

[0091] In this embodiment, the locking bolt 53 constitutes a displacement limiting part on the outer column 21 side. In this embodiment, during telescopic movements, the stop parts 32b and 32c are connected to the locking bolt 53 via the sleeve 56. However, the sleeve 56 can be omitted, and the stop parts 32b and 32c can be directly connected to the locking bolt 53.

[0092] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, a force-applying member 60, such as a coil spring, is clamped between the left and right ends of the locking bolt 53 and the fixing flange 14c of the rear bracket 14. The force-applying member 60 applies force to the locking bolt 53 towards the upward side, starting from the fixing flange 14c of the rear bracket 14 fixed to the vehicle body side. Here, as... Figure 4 As shown, the locking bolt 53 is engaged with the fastening part 25 of the outer column 21 in a through state, so the force of the force-applying member 60 applies force to the rear region of the outer column 21 toward the upward side. Therefore, the force-applying member 60 prevents the column unit 11 from descending downward due to its own weight when the lock is released (during tilting action).

[0093] The operating lever 54 is supported by the left end of the shaft portion of the locking bolt 53. (As follows) Figure 4 As shown, the locking cam 55 has two cam plates 55a and 55b that can rotate relative to each other. The shaft of the locking bolt 53 passes through the two cam plates 55a and 55b. One cam plate 55a is connected to the base of the operating lever 54, and the other cam plate 55b abuts against the side of the left rear sidewall 14a of the front bracket 13. One cam plate 55a rotates integrally with the base of the operating lever 54, while the other cam plate 55b is prevented from rotating by the inclined guide hole 14b of the left rear sidewall 14a. The two cam plates 55a and 55b have cam protrusions (not shown) on their opposing surfaces. When the two cam plates 55a and 55b are in a rotating position where their cam protrusions are opposite each other, their total thickness (axial width along the axis of the locking bolt 53) increases, and when they are in a rotating position where their cam protrusions are not opposite each other, their total thickness (axial width along the axis of the locking bolt 53) decreases.

[0094] The locking mechanism 15 changes the total thickness of the retaining cam 55 by rotating the operating lever 54, thereby causing the left and right fastening portions 25 of the outer column 21 to approach and move away from each other. Specifically, when the operating lever 54 is rotated to increase the total thickness of the retaining cam 55, the left and right fastening portions 25 deform towards each other in a manner that resists the metallic elasticity of the outer column 21. As a result, the inner diameter of the retaining sleeve 24 of the outer column 21 decreases, and the retaining sleeve 24 clamps and fixes the inner column 22. As a result, the axial displacement of the inner column 22 relative to the outer column 21 is restricted (locked state). At this time, the edge of the tilting guide hole 14b is clamped and fixed by the retaining cam 55 and the fastening portions 25 of the outer column 21, and the tilting action of the outer column 21 (column unit 11) is also locked.

[0095] On the other hand, in the locked state, when the operating lever 54 is rotated to reduce the total thickness of the retaining cam 55, the left and right fastening portions 25 elastically return to their original positions, moving away from each other. This causes the inner diameter of the retaining sleeve 24 of the outer column 21 to expand, releasing the clamping fixation of the retaining sleeve 24 on the inner column 22. As a result, axial movement of the inner column 22 relative to the outer column 21 is permitted (locked-out state). At this time, the clamping fixation of the retaining cam 55 and the fastening portions 25 of the outer column 21 on the side edge of the inclined guide hole 14b is released, and the tilting movement of the outer column 21 (column unit 11) is also permitted.

[0096] <Detailed Structure of Hanger 23>

[0097] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the hanger 23 is integrally fixed to the inner column 22 by a pair of bolts 39F and 39R. The fixing of the hanger 23 by the bolts 39F and 39R is released when a secondary collision load is input, and the occupant exerts an excessive load on the steering shaft 12 and the inner column 22 in a forward direction through the steering wheel 2.

[0098] Specifically, when a secondary collision load is applied, if an excessive forward-facing load is applied to the inner pillar 22 by the occupant via the steering wheel 2 and steering shaft 12, the inner pillar 22 will shift forward against the constraint force of the outer pillar 21 (the constraint force of the locking mechanism 15). At this time, when the inner pillar 22 has shifted forward by a predetermined amount, the stop portion 32c of the hanger 23 fixed to the inner pillar 22 will abut against the locking bolt 53 via the sleeve 56, receiving a reaction force from the locking bolt 53. Thus, when the secondary collision load is further applied, the bolts 39F and 39R, which are integral with the inner pillar 22, will overcome the frictional constraint force between the head 39b of the bolts 39F and 39R and the edge of the guide hole 34, shifting forward while the hanger 23 is disengaged. At this time, the shaft portion 39a of each bolt 39F and 39R moves forward along the guide hole 34 of the hanger 23.

[0099] Figure 7 It is Figure 5 A portion of the cross-sectional view is shown in an enlarged form. Figure 7 (a) shows the securing state of bolts 39F and 39R to hanger 23 and inner column 22. Figure 7 (b) shows the relative displacement behavior of the hanger 23 and bolts 39F and 39R when a secondary collision load is input.

[0100] like Figure 6 As shown, the guide hole 34 formed in the mounting plate portion 31 of the hanger 23 has: a widened portion 34a disposed at the rear end; and a narrow portion 34b extending forward from the widened portion 34a, the width in the left-right direction being narrower than the width of the widened portion 34a. When the hanger 23 is fastened to the lower surface of the inner column 22, as Figure 5 , Figure 7 As shown in (a), the shaft portion 39a of the rear bolt 39R passes through the widened portion 34a of the guide hole 34 in the vertical direction. The shaft portion 39a of the front bolt 39F passes through the narrow portion 34b of the guide hole 34 in the vertical direction. At this time, when the shaft portions 39a of the bolts 39R and 39F are tightened to the inner column 22, the heads 39b (seat portions) of each bolt 39R and 39F are pressed from the lower surface side to the left and right edges of the widened portion 34a and the narrow portion 34b, as a result, the hanger 23 is tightly fixed to the lower surface of the inner column 22.

[0101] The left and right edges of the widened portion 34a of the guide hole 34 in the mounting plate portion 31 of the hanger 23 are the first opposing surfaces 41 where the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R abuts when the hanger 23 is fixed relative to the inner column 22. The left and right edges of the rear region of the narrow portion 34b of the guide hole 34 in the mounting plate portion 31 (the region adjacent to the front end of the widened portion 34a) are the second opposing surfaces 42 where the head 39b of the front bolt 39F abuts when the hanger 23 is fixed relative to the inner column 22. Figure 7 As shown in (a), the protrusion height (protrusion height towards the downward side) of the second opposing surface 42 in the direction opposite to the head 39b of the bolt 39F is lower than the protrusion height of the first opposing surface 41 by a set height h1. The head 39b of the rear bolt 39R is positioned at the front end of the first opposing surface 41 (adjacent to the second opposing surface 42) when the hanger 23 is fixed to the inner column 22.

[0102] The left and right edges of the front region of the narrow portion 34b of the guide hole 34 in the mounting plate portion 31 (the region spaced forward from the widened portion 34a) are on the third opposing surface 43, which is lower than the second opposing surface 42 in the direction opposite to the head 39b of the bolt 39F (the downward-facing protrusion height) by a set height h2. The head 39b of the bolt 39F on the front side is positioned at the front end of the second opposing surface 42 (adjacent to the third opposing surface 43) when the hanger 23 is fixed to the inner column 22.

[0103] In this embodiment, regarding the setter formed by the rear bolt 39R, the first opposing surface 41 in the edge of the guide hole 34 constitutes a first region A1, which is abutted by the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39R (fixing member) to fix the hanger 23 to the inner column 22. Regarding the setter formed by the rear bolt 39R, the second opposing surface 42 in the edge of the guide hole 34 constitutes a second region A2, where the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39R (fixing member) faces it from below due to the displacement of the inner column 22 accompanied by the input of a secondary impact load.

[0104] Regarding the setter formed by the front bolt 39F, the second opposing surface 42 in the edge of the guide hole 34 constitutes a first region A1, which is abutted by the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39F (fixing member) to fix the hanger 23 to the inner column 22. Regarding the setter formed by the front bolt 39F, the third opposing surface 43 in the edge of the guide hole 34 constitutes a second region A2, which is opposed to the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39F (fixing member) on the lower side due to the displacement of the inner column 22 accompanied by the input secondary impact load.

[0105] Here, regarding the fixing of the hanger 23 to the inner column 22 by the rear bolt 39R, the bolt 39R is tightened to the inner column 22 via the shaft portion 39a, and the head 39b of the bolt 39R is pressed against the first opposing surface 41 with a force corresponding to the tightening torque. At this time, the frictional constraint force corresponding to the tightening of the bolt 39R acts between the first opposing surface 41 of the hanger 23 and the head 39b of the bolt 39R, and the frictional constraint force corresponding to the tightening of the bolt 39R also acts between the mounting plate portion 31 of the hanger 23 and the lower surface of the inner column 22.

[0106] When a secondary impact load is applied, when the hanger 23, which moves forward integrally with the inner column 22, abuts against the locking bolt 53 at the stop 32c, the bolt 39R attempts to move forward relative to the stopped hanger 23. At this time, a second opposing surface 42, with a protrusion height lower than the first opposing surface 41, is disposed on the front side of the first opposing surface 41 of the hanger 23. Therefore, when the secondary impact load attempting to move the bolt 39R forward together with the inner column 22 exceeds a specified value, such as... Figure 7As shown in (b), bolt 39R will quickly move forward, so that the head 39b of bolt 39R is opposite to the second opposing surface 42. Compared with the first opposing surface 41, the second opposing surface 42 exerts less frictional constraint on the head 39b of bolt 39R. Therefore, after the head 39b moves to the position opposite to the second opposing surface 42, bolt 39R will move further forward smoothly along the guide hole 34.

[0107] Regarding the fixing of the hanger 23 to the inner column 22 by the bolt 39F on the front side, the bolt 39F is tightened to the inner column 22 by the shaft portion 39a, and the head 39b of the bolt 39F is pressed against the second opposing surface 42 of the edge of the guide hole 34 with a force corresponding to the tightening torque. At this time, the hanger 23 is subjected to a frictional constraint force from the head 39b of the bolt 39F pressed against the second opposing surface 42, and also from the lower surface of the inner column 22.

[0108] When a secondary collision load is input, when the forward-moving hanger 23 abuts against the locking bolt 53 at the stop 32c, the front bolt 39F, like the rear bolt 39R, attempts to shift forward relative to the stopped hanger 23. At this time, a third opposing surface 43, with a protrusion height lower than the second opposing surface 42, is positioned on the front side of the second opposing surface 42. Therefore, when the secondary collision load exceeds a specified value, such as... Figure 7 As shown in (b), the front bolt 39F will quickly move forward, so that the head 39b of the bolt 39F is opposite to the third opposing surface 43. Compared with the second opposing surface 42, the third opposing surface 43 has a smaller frictional constraint on the head 39b of the bolt 39F. Therefore, after the head 39b moves to the position opposite to the third opposing surface 43, the bolt 39F will move further forward smoothly along the guide hole 34.

[0109] Figure 8 This is a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the forward travel of the inner column 22 and the load acting between the inner column 22 and the outer column 21 when a secondary collision load is input to the steering device 1 of this embodiment.

[0110] Figure 8L1 is the working load that causes the inner column 22 to begin moving forward against the constraint force of the outer column 21 (the constraint force of the locking mechanism 15) due to the input of the secondary collision load. S1 to S2 are the strokes of the inner column 22 relative to the outer column 21 within the telescopic working range (the stroke until the stop part 32c abuts against the locking bolt 53). L2 is the load when the stop part 32c abuts against the locking bolt 53 and the initial working load after abutting, when the bolts 39R and 39F drop off the hanger 23 and begin to move forward together with the inner column 22. S3 to S4 are the strokes during the period when the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R moves from a position opposite to the first opposing surface 41 to a position opposite to the second opposing surface 42, and the head 39b of the front bolt 39F moves from a position opposite to the second opposing surface 42 to a position opposite to the third opposing surface 43.

[0111] like Figure 8 As shown, when a secondary impact load is input, the initial load L2 is suppressed to a relatively low level, thus allowing for a smooth transfer to a travel range exceeding S4, where the attenuation load for the input impact is approximately constant. Within this travel range beyond S4, the energy of the secondary impact load can be stably absorbed.

[0112] <Effects of the Implementation Method>

[0113] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the hanger 23 has a guide hole 34 extending in the front-rear direction and through which the shaft portion 39a of the bolts 39R and 39F passes. At the edge of the guide hole 34, there are: a first region A1, in which the hanger 23 is fixed to the inner column 22 by pressing the heads 39b (seat portions) of the bolts 39R and 39F; and a second region A2, where the heads 39b of the bolts 39R and 39F are opposite to the second region A2 when a secondary collision load is input. Furthermore, when the heads 39b of the bolts 39R and 39F are shifted to a position opposite to the second region A2 when a secondary collision load is input, the frictional constraint force between the heads 39b and the edge of the guide hole 34 is set to be smaller than the frictional constraint force between the heads 39b and the edge of the guide hole 34 when the heads 39b of the bolts 39R and 39F are pressed against the hanger in the first region A1.

[0114] Therefore, when a secondary collision load is input, the guide hole 34 of the hanger 23 and the shaft portion 39a of the bolts 39R and 39F can stably maintain the posture of the inner column 22, and the bolts 39R and 39F can be smoothly moved from the position where the head 39b is opposite to the first region A1 of the hanger 23 to the position where the head 39b is opposite to the second region A2. Therefore, when the steering device 1 of this embodiment is adopted, it is a simple structure that does not lead to large size and high cost, and it can obtain stable energy absorption performance when a secondary collision load is input.

[0115] In particular, in the steering device 1 of this embodiment, as a means of setting the frictional constraint force in the second region A2 to be smaller than that in the first region A1, the protrusion height of the second region A2 (the protrusion height in the direction opposite to the seat of the fixing member) is lower than that of the first region A1. As a result, the frictional force acting between the head 39b of the bolts 39R and 39F and the edge of the guide hole 34 in the second region A2 is smaller than the frictional force acting between the head 39b of the bolts 39R and 39F and the edge of the guide hole 34 in the first region A1. Therefore, the steering device 1 of this configuration is a simple configuration that only makes the protrusion height of the second region A2 lower than that of the first region A1, yet it can suppress the initial working load when a secondary collision load is input relatively small and smoothly absorb the energy of the secondary collision load.

[0116] In the steering device 1 of this configuration, since the protrusion height of the second region A2 of the hanger 23 is lower than that of the first region A1, if the heads 39b of the bolts 39R and 39F are relatively displaced to a position opposite to the second region A2 when a secondary collision load is input, the pressing load of the hanger 23 on the inner column 22 caused by the heads 39b will also be smaller. As a result, the frictional resistance of the contact surface between the hanger 23 and the inner column 22 becomes smaller. Therefore, with this configuration, the later stage of the collapse stroke when a secondary collision load is input can be made smoother, further improving energy absorption performance.

[0117] In this embodiment, the frictional constraint force in the second region A2 is set to be smaller than that in the first region A1 by making the protrusion height of the second region A2 lower than that in the first region A1. However, the means for setting the frictional constraint force in the second region A2 to be smaller than that in the first region A1 are not limited to this. For example, the surface roughness of the lower surface of the second region A2 may be set to be smoother than that of the lower surface of the first region A1. As a means of smoothing the surface roughness, for example, a suitable coating agent may be applied to the lower surface of the friction region.

[0118] Furthermore, in the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the first region A1 and the second region A2 (first opposing surface 41, second opposing surface 42, and third opposing surface 43) of the hanger 23 are formed from an integral metal component (metal plate). Therefore, with this configuration, the first region A1 and the second region A2 with different protrusion heights can be easily shaped on the hanger 23 by stamping or the like, and the number of parts can be reduced.

[0119] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, bolts 39R and 39F, which are fastening members, are used as fixing members for fixing the hanger 23 to the lower surface of the inner column 22. For fastening members such as bolts 39R and 39F, if a tool capable of controlling the torque when tightening to the opposing member is used, the tightening torque can be accurately managed. Therefore, in the steering device 1 of this configuration, by managing the tightening torque of bolts 39R and 39F, the frictional constraint force on the hanger 23 can be accurately set and adjusted. Therefore, with this configuration, the fixation of the hanger 23 relative to the inner column 22 during normal use becomes reliable, and stable energy absorption performance can be obtained when a secondary collision load is input.

[0120] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, multiple bolts 39R and 39F, serving as fixing members, are arranged at axially spaced positions on the inner column 22. The hanger 23 is fixed to the multiple axially spaced positions on the inner column 22 by the bolts 39R and 39F. Furthermore, a first region A1 and a second region A2 are respectively provided at the edge of the guide hole 34 of the hanger 23, corresponding to each bolt 39R and 39F. Therefore, when a secondary collision load is input, the multiple bolts 39R and 39F can share the guiding function of the shaft portion 39a of the fixing member and the guide hole 34, as well as the fixing and sliding of the seat portion (head 39b) of the fixing member and the edge of the guide hole 34. Therefore, with this configuration, the behavior (crushing stroke) of the inner column 22 when a secondary collision load is input can be made more stable.

[0121] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, since the hanger 23 is fixed to the inner column 22 at intervals in the longitudinal direction by multiple bolts 39R and 39F, when the stop portions 32c and 32b of the hanger 23 abut against the locking bolt 53 (displacement limiting portion), the longitudinal ends of the hanger 23 can be prevented from separating (lifting) from the inner column 22. Therefore, with this configuration, the commercial viability of the steering device 1 when adjusting the longitudinal position of the inner column 22 can be improved, and the operation of the hanger 23 and the inner column 22 can be stabilized when a secondary collision load is input.

[0122] [Second Implementation]

[0123] Figure 9 The steering device of the second embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment. Figure 7 The corresponding cross-sectional view. Figure 9 (a) shows the fixing state of bolts 39F and 39R to hanger 123 and inner column 22. Figure 9 (b) shows the relative displacement behavior of the hanger 123 and bolts 39F and 39R when a secondary collision load is input.

[0124] The steering device in this embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment only in the structure of the hanger 123 mounted on the lower surface of the inner column 22.

[0125] Similar to the first embodiment, the hanger 123 has a guide hole 34 formed on the mounting plate portion 31 in a front-rear direction. The left and right edges of the guide hole 34 have: a first opposing surface 141 disposed on the rear side; and a second opposing surface 142 disposed on the front side, which protrudes at a height lower than the first opposing surface 141 by a predetermined height h2.

[0126] like Figure 9 As shown in (a), when the hanger 123 is fixed to the inner column 22, the heads 39b of the front and rear bolts 39F and 39R are pressed against the first opposing surface 141 in the edge of the guide hole 34 with a force corresponding to the tightening torque. At this time, the head 39b of the front bolt 39F is positioned at the front end of the first opposing surface 141 (adjacent to the second opposing surface 142).

[0127] Conversely, when a secondary collision load is input, if bolts 39F and 39R, together with the inner column 22, detach from the hanger 123 and move forward, as... Figure 9 As shown in (b), the head 39b of the front bolt 39F is now aligned with the second opposing surface 142. At this time, the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R remains aligned with the first opposing surface 141. Therefore, the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the front bolt 39F on the hanger 123 is reduced, but the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R on the hanger 123 is not reduced.

[0128] In this embodiment, regarding the setter formed by the rear bolt 39R, the rear region of the first opposing surface 141 in the edge of the guide hole 34 is configured as: a first region A1, which is abutted by the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39R (fixing member) to fix the hanger 123 to the inner column 22. Regarding the setter formed by the rear bolt 39R, the front region of the first opposing surface 141 is configured as: a second region A2, where the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39R (fixing member) faces it from below due to the displacement of the inner column 22 accompanied by the input of a secondary impact load.

[0129] Regarding the setter formed by the front bolt 39F, the front region of the first opposing surface 141 constitutes: a first region A1, which is abutted by the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39F (fixing member) to fix the hanger 123 to the inner column 22. Regarding the setter formed by the front bolt 39F, the second opposing surface 142 constitutes a second region A2: due to the displacement of the inner column 22 accompanied by the input secondary impact load, the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39F (fixing member) is opposite it on the lower side.

[0130] Figure 10 This is a characteristic diagram showing the relationship between the forward travel of the inner column 22 and the load acting between the inner column 22 and the outer column 21 when a secondary collision load is input to the steering device 1 of this embodiment.

[0131] like Figure 10 As shown, when a secondary collision load is input, the inner column 22 initially moves forward within the telescopic working range (S1 to S2). Then, when the hanger 123 abuts against the locking bolt (the displacement limiting part on the outer column side), the bolts 39R and 39F will disengage from the hanger 123 and begin to move forward together with the inner column 22. Figure 10 L2 in the figure represents the initial load at this point in operation.

[0132] Subsequently, the head 39b of the front bolt 39F shifts from a position opposite to the first opposing surface 141 to a position opposite to the second opposing surface 142 (S3-S4), during which time the working load gradually decreases. Then, when the head 39b of the front bolt 39F is completely opposite to the second opposing surface 142, the attenuation load (L3) against the input impact becomes approximately constant (L3). In this embodiment, the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R remains opposite to the first opposing surface 141 regardless of the forward displacement of the inner column 22, therefore the frictional resistance from the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R does not change. Therefore, the attenuation load (L3) after the bolts 39R and 39F, having abandoned the hanger 123, begin to shift forward together with the inner column 22 is higher than in the first embodiment. Figure 10 L4 in the first embodiment refers to the attenuated load after bolts 39R and 39F begin to shift forward.

[0133] The basic structure of the steering device in this embodiment is roughly the same as that in the first embodiment, so the same basic effect as in the first embodiment can be obtained.

[0134] However, in the steering device of this embodiment, regarding the set part formed by the rear bolt 39R, the frictional constraint force brought by the head 39b of the bolt 39R does not change when the head 39b of the bolt 39R is in a fixed position and when it is in a forward-moving state. That is, the frictional constraint force between the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R and the edge of the guide hole 34 when the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R is moved to a position opposite to the second region A2 is the same as the frictional constraint force between the head 39b and the edge of the guide hole 34 in the first region A1. Therefore, the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R on the hanger 123 does not change during the initial and later stages of operation when a secondary collision load is input. Therefore, with the configuration of this embodiment, the sliding resistance can be increased during the later stages of operation when a secondary collision load is input, and the energy absorption during the crushing stroke can be increased.

[0135] [Variation Example]

[0136] Figure 11 This is a variation of the second embodiment shown. Figure 9 (a) is the same cross-sectional view.

[0137] The configuration of the steering device hanger 123A in this variation is the same as... Figure 9 The basic implementation shown is slightly different.

[0138] and Figure 9 Similarly to the basic embodiment shown, the hanger 123A of this modified example has a first opposing surface 141 and a second opposing surface 142 that protrudes at a height h2 lower than the first opposing surface 141 at the left and right edges of the guide hole 34. However, the hanger 123A of this modified example is fixed to the inner column 22 by bolts 39R and 39F with the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R abutting against the first opposing surface 141 and the head 39b of the front bolt 39F abutting against the second opposing surface 142.

[0139] When a secondary collision load is applied, as bolts 39F and 39R move forward together with the inner column 22, the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R becomes aligned with the second opposing surface 142. At this time, the head 39b of the front bolt 39F remains aligned with the second opposing surface 142. Therefore, the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the rear bolt 39R on the hanger 123A decreases, but the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the front bolt 39F on the hanger 123A does not decrease.

[0140] In this modified example, regarding the setter formed by the rear bolt 39R, the first opposing surface 141 constitutes the first region A1, and the second opposing surface 142 constitutes the second region A2. Regarding the setter formed by the front bolt 39F, the rear region of the second opposing surface 142 constitutes the first region A1, and the front region of the second opposing surface 142 constitutes the second region A2.

[0141] In this modified example, the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the front bolt 39F on the hanger 123A remains unchanged during the initial and later stages of operation when the secondary impact load is applied. Therefore, in this modified example, it is also possible to increase the sliding resistance during the later stages of operation when the secondary impact load is applied, thereby increasing the energy absorption during the crushing stroke.

[0142] [Third Implementation]

[0143] Figure 12 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the assembly portion of the steering device hanger 223 in the third embodiment. Figure 13The section is taken from the shaft portion 39a of bolt 39. Figure 12 The XIII view.

[0144] The steering device in this embodiment differs from that in the first and second embodiments in the structure of the hanger 223 mounted on the lower surface of the inner column 22.

[0145] In this embodiment, the hanger 223 has a spacer member 45 of constant thickness disposed on a portion of the lower surface of the mounting plate portion 31, which has a guide hole 34. The spacer member 45 has a generally U-shaped guide hole 46 that opens towards the front side, and the guide hole 46 is disposed on the lower surface side of the mounting plate portion 31 in a manner consistent with the guide hole 34 of the mounting plate portion 31 in the vertical direction. The spacer member 45 can be made, for example, of a washer-shaped metal plate with a generally circular shape.

[0146] When the hanger 223 is fixed to the inner column 22 by bolt 39, the spacer 45 is clamped between the head 39b of bolt 39 and the lower surface of the mounting plate 31. At this time, the shaft 39a of bolt 39 passes through the guide holes 46 and 34 of spacer 45 and mounting plate 31, and the top end is tightened to the lower surface of inner column 22.

[0147] In this embodiment, the lower surface edge of the guide hole 46 of the spacer member 45 constitutes the first region A1. That is, the lower surface edge of the guide hole 46 of the spacer member 45 is abutted and pressed by the head 39b (seat) of the bolt 39, thereby fixing the hanger 223 to the inner post 22. In this embodiment, the front portion of the spacer member 45 in the lower surface edge of the guide hole 34 of the mounting plate portion 31 constitutes the second region A2. That is, the portion of the lower surface edge of the guide hole 34 that is further forward than the spacer member 45 is disposed adjacent to the front side of the first region A1, and is opposite to the head 39b of the bolt 39 when the inner post 22 is displaced forward together during the input of a secondary collision load.

[0148] The lower surface of region A2 is lower than the lower surface of region A1 by the height h1 of the thickness of the spacer member 45. In this embodiment, the portion constituting region A1 is composed of the spacer member 45, which is separate from the main body (mounting plate portion 31) of the hanger 223.

[0149] exist Figure 12 , Figure 13 In this embodiment, only one bolt 39 for securing the hanger 223 to the inner column 22 is shown, but multiple bolts 39 can also be used, as in the first and second embodiments. In this case, a stepped spacer member whose protrusion height of the abutment surface increases in a stepped manner toward the rear can be used. Multiple spacers with different protrusion heights of the abutment surfaces can also be used.

[0150] The steering device of this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, except that the portion constituting the first region A1 is made up of the spacer member 45. Therefore, by employing the steering device of this embodiment, substantially the same basic effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.

[0151] However, in the steering device of this embodiment, since the portion constituting the first region A1 of the hanger 223 is composed of separate spacer members 45, the heights of the first region A1 and the second region A2 can be easily changed simply by arranging the separate spacer members 45 in the first region A1 of the hanger 223. Therefore, with this configuration, the structure of the main body of the hanger 223 (the portion other than the spacer members 45) can be simplified, further improving productivity.

[0152] [Fourth Implementation]

[0153] Figure 14 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the assembly portion of the steering device hanger 323 in the fourth embodiment. Figure 14 (a) shows the fixing state of bolt 39 to hanger 323 and inner column 22. Figure 14 (b) shows the relative displacement behavior of the hanger 323 and bolt 39 when a secondary collision load is input.

[0154] The steering device in this embodiment differs from that in the structure of the hanger 323 mounted on the lower surface of the inner column 22 in the first to third embodiments.

[0155] In this embodiment, the hanger 323 has the following features at the edge of the guide hole 34 in the mounting plate portion 31: a first region A1, in which the hanger 323 is fixed to the inner column 22 by bolts 39; and a second region A2, in which the head 39b of the bolt 39 becomes opposite to the first region when a secondary impact load is input. The second region A2 is disposed adjacent to the front side of the first region. The protrusion height of the first region A1 in the direction opposite to the head 39b of the bolt 39 is a constant height in the front-rear direction. In contrast, the protrusion height of the second region A2 in the direction opposite to the head 39b of the bolt 39 gradually decreases towards the front side.

[0156] In the steering device of this embodiment, when a secondary collision load is input, if the head 39b of the bolt 39 shifts from a position opposite to the first region A1 to a position opposite to the second region A2, the frictional constraint force of the head 39b of the bolt 39 on the edge of the guide hole 34 gradually decreases accordingly with the forward displacement of the bolt 39 (inner post 22). Therefore, when using the steering device of this embodiment, the displacement of the inner post 22 in the later stage of the crushing stroke becomes smoother.

[0157] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various design changes can be made without departing from its spirit. For example, in the above embodiments, the hanger is fixed to the inner column by two or one bolt, but the number of fixing members used to fix the hanger to the inner column can also be three or more.

Claims

1. A steering device, characterized in that, have: The inner pillar supports the steering shaft so that it can rotate; The outer pillar is supported on the vehicle body while its displacement in the front-to-back direction is restricted, and the aforementioned inner pillar can be inserted into it in a position that can be adjusted in the front-to-back direction; A hanger, which is assembled to the inner column, and has a stop portion that limits excessive displacement of the inner column by abutting against a displacement limiting portion on the outer column side when the inner column shifts in the front-rear direction; and A fixing member has: a shaft portion passing through the hanger and having one end connected to the inner column; and a seat portion disposed at the other end of the shaft portion, for pressing and fixing the hanger to the inner column. The aforementioned hanger has a guide hole that extends in the front-rear direction and passes through the aforementioned shaft portion of the aforementioned fixing member. The edge of the guide hole of the aforementioned hanger is provided with: The first region, where the seat portion of the aforementioned fixing member abuts against to secure the aforementioned hanger to the aforementioned inner column; and The second region, which is adjacent to the front side of the first region, is opposite to the seat when the seat and the inner pillar are displaced forward together due to the input of a secondary collision load to the steering axle. When the seat is shifted to a position opposite to the second region, the frictional constraint force between the seat and the edge of the guide hole is set to be smaller than the frictional constraint force between the seat and the edge of the guide hole when the seat is positioned opposite to the first region. Multiple fixing members are arranged at axially spaced positions on the inner column. The aforementioned hangers are fixed to multiple axially spaced positions on the aforementioned inner column by the aforementioned fixing components. The aforementioned hanger is provided with the first region and the second region respectively, corresponding to each of the aforementioned fixed components. The edge of the aforementioned guide hole has three surfaces of different heights: a first opposing surface, a second opposing surface, and a third opposing surface. The aforementioned fixing member on the front side is disposed on the second opposing surface, and the aforementioned fixing member on the rear side is disposed on the first opposing surface.

2. The steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protrusion height of the second region relative to the seat is set to be lower than that of the first region relative to the seat.

3. The steering device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned first region and the aforementioned second region are formed by an integral metal component.

4. The steering device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A spacer member is provided in the first region such that the height of the first region in the direction opposite to the seat is higher than the height of the second region in the direction opposite to the seat.

5. The steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned fixing component is a settling component that can manage the tightening torque.

6. The steering device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The protrusion height of the second region mentioned above, in the direction opposite to the seat, gradually decreases from the rear end toward the front side.

Images