Wiring module for a walking system and arrangement of wiring modules for a walking system

Abstract

A wiring module for a walking system is provided with a wiring member connecting a vehicle body side device and a wheel side device, and a support member supporting the wiring member, the wiring member including a first linear transmission member and a second linear transmission member thinner than the first linear transmission member, the support member supporting the wiring member in such a manner that the first linear transmission member is located closer to a turning center axis than the second linear transmission member at at least a part of the wiring member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a wiring module for a walking system and the arrangement structure of the wiring module for a walking system. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a power cable for an in-wheel motor. The vehicle body side ends of the three power cables are clamped by clamping components. The motor side ends of the three power cables are connected to a power cable terminal box provided in the in-wheel motor drive unit.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-65545 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The power cable for the in-wheel motor disclosed in Patent Document 1 is used in a walking system where the wiring module repeatedly deforms to follow the rotation of the steering wheel.

[0008] The requirement is to further improve the resistance of the wiring module of the walking system to repeated deformation.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to further improve the resistance of wiring modules for walking systems to repeated deformation.

[0010] Technical solutions for solving the problem

[0011] The wiring module for the walking system disclosed herein includes a wiring component that connects vehicle-side equipment to wheel-side equipment and a support component that supports the wiring component. The wiring component includes a first linear transmission component and a second linear transmission component that is thinner than the first linear transmission component. The support component supports the wiring component such that, at at least a portion of the wiring component, the first linear transmission component is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission component.

[0012] In addition, the wiring module arrangement of the walking system disclosed herein includes a wiring component that connects the vehicle body side equipment and the wheel side equipment, a portion of which is arranged in a manner passing through the steering rotation center axis.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to this disclosure, the resistance of the wiring module for the walking system to repeated deformation is further improved. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the wiring module for the walking system according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A rough cross-sectional view along line II-II in the diagram.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A rough cross-sectional view at line III-III.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the wiring components involved in the modified example.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the wiring components involved in the modified example.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing the wiring components involved in the modified example.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing the wiring components involved in the modified example.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view showing the wiring components involved in the modified example.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing the wiring components involved in the modified example.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing the support component involved in the modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0025] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure]

[0026] First, embodiments of this disclosure will be described.

[0027] The wiring module for the walking system disclosed herein is as follows.

[0028] (1) A wiring module for a mobility system includes a wiring component connecting vehicle-side equipment and wheel-side equipment, and a support component supporting the wiring component. The wiring component includes a first linear transmission component and a second linear transmission component that is thinner than the first linear transmission component. The support component supports the wiring component such that, at least a portion of the wiring component, the first linear transmission component is located closer to the steering rotation axis than the second linear transmission component. According to this wiring module for a mobility system, when the wheel rotates around the steering rotation axis, the thicker first linear transmission component is less prone to bending deformation, while the thinner second linear transmission component is more prone to bending deformation than the first linear transmission component. Therefore, as a whole, the wiring module for a mobility system has improved resistance to repeated bending deformation.

[0029] (2) According to the wiring module for the walking system of (1), the support member may support the wiring component in such a way that at least a portion of the wiring component is parallel to the steering rotation center axis. In the portion of the wiring component parallel to the steering rotation center axis, the first linear transmission member is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission member. When the wheel rotates around the steering rotation center axis, the first linear transmission member, which is closer to the steering rotation center axis in the portion of the wiring component parallel to the steering rotation center axis, is prone to bending deformation.

[0030] (3) According to the wiring module for the walking system of (1) or (2), the support member may support the wiring component such that at least a portion of the wiring component is along the steering rotation center axis, wherein in the portion of the wiring component along the steering rotation center axis, the first linear transmission member is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission member. The portion of the wiring component along the steering rotation center axis can follow the rotation of the wheel based on steering, and bending deformation of the wiring component is suppressed. In particular, the thick first linear transmission member can follow the rotation of the wheel by twisting, so it is difficult to deteriorate. Therefore, the resistance to repeated deformation of the wiring module for the walking system as a whole is further improved.

[0031] (4) The wiring module for the walking system according to (3) may also be a portion of the wiring component along the steering rotation center axis, the steering rotation center axis passing through the minimum enclosing circle at the cross-section of the wiring component.

[0032] (5) According to any of the wiring modules for a walking system in (1) to (4), the first linear transmission component may be a power line and the second linear transmission component may be a signal line. Thick power lines are difficult to bend and deform, while thinner second linear transmission components are more prone to bending and deformation than the first linear transmission component. Therefore, as a whole, the wiring module for a walking system has further improved resistance to repeated deformation.

[0033] (6) According to any of the wiring modules for a walking system in (1) to (5), the wiring component may also include a plurality of first linear transmission components, wherein in at least a portion of the wiring component, the plurality of first linear transmission components are bundled together, and the second linear transmission components are embedded in the gaps between the plurality of first linear transmission components at a position farther from the steering rotation center axis than the plurality of first linear transmission components. This allows the wiring component to be thinner and the plurality of first linear transmission components to be positioned closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission components.

[0034] The wiring module layout of the walking system disclosed herein is as follows.

[0035] (7) A wiring module arrangement for a mobility system includes a wiring component that connects vehicle-side equipment to wheel-side equipment, a portion of which is arranged around a steering rotation axis. According to this wiring module, when the wheel rotates around the steering rotation axis, the thicker first linear transmission component is less prone to bending deformation, while the thinner second linear transmission component is more prone to bending deformation than the first linear transmission component. Therefore, the overall wiring module for the mobility system exhibits improved resistance to repeated bending deformation.

[0036] [Details of the embodiments disclosed herein]

[0037] The following, with reference to the accompanying drawings, describes specific examples of the wiring module for the walking system and the arrangement of the wiring module for the walking system according to the present disclosure. Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims, as indicated by the claims.

[0038] [Implementation Method]

[0039] The following describes the wiring module for the walking system and its arrangement structure according to the embodiment. Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the arrangement structure 30 of the wiring module 40 for the walking system. Figure 1 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a plane that is orthogonal to the front-rear direction of the vehicle body 10 and passes through the central axis of the wheel 20. Figure 2 yes Figure 1A rough cross-sectional view along line II-II in the diagram. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A rough cross-sectional view at line III-III. Figure 2 The main focus is on the area surrounding wheel 20. Figure 3 The main illustration shows the relationship between the steering rotation center shaft X, the wiring component 50, and the wheel-side equipment.

[0040] The wiring module 40 for the running system includes a wiring component 50 and a support component 60. The wiring component 50 is a component for connecting the vehicle-side equipment 18 to the wheel-side equipment 28. The wiring component 50 is arranged along the path connecting the vehicle-side equipment 18 to the wheel-side equipment 28. The support component 60 is a component that supports the wiring component 50.

[0041] For ease of explanation, the structure of the object portion for which the wiring module 40 for the walking system is arranged will be described.

[0042] The vehicle body 10, which is part of the wiring module 40 for the walking system, is the body of a car. Figure 1 In the diagram, the portion surrounding the front wheel 20 in the vehicle body 10 is shown. It is envisioned that the wiring module 40 for the running system is used for the wheel 20, which is steered via steering. For example, the wheel 20 is the front wheel. Furthermore, the wiring module for the running system can also be used for the rear wheel when it is being steered.

[0043] The vehicle body 10 includes a floor portion 12 and a body portion 14. The floor portion 12 is the portion facing the ground. The body portion 14 is disposed on the upper side of the floor portion 12 and constitutes the outer body portion of the vehicle body 10. The vehicle body 10 can be a frameless vehicle body in which a frame and a body are integrated as a rigid body, or it can be a structure in which the body is mounted on a frame. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the direction of travel when the vehicle is normally in motion is sometimes referred to as the front, and the opposite side is referred to as the rear.

[0044] The wheel 20 is supported on the body 10 in a rotatable manner. Figure 1 In the example shown, wheel 20 is supported within mudguard 16 in a rotatable manner. The suspension system can be any suspension system that supports wheel 20, such as independent suspension. Figure 1 The example shown illustrates a wheel 20 supported by a lower arm 32 and a shock absorber 36. Figure 1 The suspension system shown is an example of a strut-type suspension system.

[0045] More specifically, the wheel 20 includes a rim 22 and a tire 24. The rim 22 is made of metal such as iron or aluminum. The rim 22 includes a disc portion 22a and a tire mounting portion 22b. The disc portion 22a is formed in the shape of a circular plate. The tire mounting portion 22b is an annular portion that protrudes inward in the vehicle width direction from the periphery of the disc portion 22a. Annular rims protrude from both sides of the tire mounting portion 22b. The tire 24, made of an elastic component such as rubber, is mounted on the outer periphery of the tire mounting portion 22b.

[0046] A wheel-side device 28 is provided on the aforementioned wheel 20. Here, it is envisioned that the wheel-side device 28 is an in-wheel motor. Furthermore, an in-wheel motor is a motor used for driving, installed in the wheel 20 and rotating it. Here, with the wheel-side device 28 disposed within the tire mounting portion 22b, the drive shaft 28a of the wheel-side device (in-wheel motor) 28 is connected to the central portion of the disc portion 22a. Thus, the wheel-side device 28 is integrally mounted into the wheel 20.

[0047] The upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the lower steering knuckle portion 26 are mounted on the wheel-side device 28. The upper steering knuckle portion 25 extends inward in the vehicle width direction from the upper part of the wheel-side device 28. The lower steering knuckle portion 26 extends inward in the vehicle width direction from the lower part of the wheel-side device 28. An arm 26a, which is subjected to steering force, is provided protruding from the lower steering knuckle portion 26. Here, the arm 26a extends rearward from the inward side of the lower steering knuckle portion 26 in the vehicle width direction. When the wheel-side device 28 is not an in-wheel motor, the aforementioned upper steering knuckle portion 25 and lower steering knuckle portion 26 sometimes extend inward in the vehicle width direction from the bearing portion that rotatably supports the wheel 20.

[0048] The lower arm 32 is a component made of metal or the like. The base of the lower arm 32 is supported on the floor portion 12 in a swingable manner at a position inside the vehicle width direction relative to the wheel 20. The axis centered on the base of the lower arm 32 during swinging is along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body 10. Alternatively, the base of the lower arm may be supported on the floor portion in a swingable manner relative to the wheel, at a position diagonally in front, inside, diagonally behind, or rearward. In these cases, the axis of rotation during lower arm swinging may be along the left-right direction of the vehicle body, along the longitudinal direction, or diagonally relative to both the left-right and longitudinal directions.

[0049] The front end of the lower arm 32 extends from the base plate portion 12 toward the mudguard 16 (here, toward the outside in the vehicle width direction). A bearing portion 33 is provided at the front end of the lower arm 32. The lower steering knuckle portion 26 is rotatably supported at the front end of the lower arm 32 via the bearing portion 33. The rotation axis of the bearing portion 33 is the steering rotation center axis X of the wheel 20 rotating within the mudguard 16.

[0050] A spring 35 and a shock absorber 36 are provided between the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the vehicle body 10. More specifically, the upper end of the shock absorber 36 is supported on the vehicle body 10 above the wheel 20. The upper steering knuckle portion 25 is rotatably supported on the lower end of the shock absorber 36 via a bearing portion 37. The rotation axis of the bearing portion 37 is the steering rotation center axis X of the wheel 20 rotating within the fender 16.

[0051] As described above, since the base of the lower arm 32 is supported on the base plate portion 12 in a swingable manner, the lower arm 32 supports the wheel 20 so that it can move vertically within the fender 16. With the direction of movement of the wheel 20 restricted by the lower arm 32, the shock absorber 36 is positioned between the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the vehicle body 10. The shock absorber 36 and the spring 35 externally mounted on the shock absorber 36 absorb the impact caused by the unevenness of the road surface during driving.

[0052] In this embodiment, the rotation axis of bearing portion 33 and the rotation axis of bearing portion 37 are located on the steering rotation center axis X of wheel 20. Additionally, the central axis of shock absorber 36 is also located on the steering rotation center axis X of wheel 20. However, the central axis of the shock absorber does not need to be aligned with the steering rotation center axis X.

[0053] The lever 38 is connected to the front end of the arm 26a. When the steering wheel 19 is rotated by the driver's steering operation, this rotational motion is transmitted to the lever 38 as a movement in the vehicle width direction via the steering drive shaft 19a and the rack and pinion mechanism, etc. When the lever 38 moves in the vehicle width direction, the lower steering knuckle 26 can rotate around the rotation axis of the bearing 33 (i.e., the steering rotation center axis X). Thus, by steering operation, the wheel 20 can rotate around the steering rotation center axis X. By rotating the wheel 20 around the steering rotation center axis X, the forward direction of the vehicle body 10 can be changed. That is, the steering rotation center axis X can also be understood as the central axis when the wheel 20 is rotated by the operation of the steering wheel 19. The steering rotation center axis X can also be understood as an axis that is closer to the direction of gravity than the horizontal direction. The steering rotation center axis X can also be understood as the central axis for the wheel 20 to rotate in order to change the forward direction of the vehicle body 10.

[0054] The vehicle body side device 18 is disposed on the side of the vehicle body 10, and the wheel side device 28 is disposed on the side of the wheel 20. The wheel side device 28 is a device that is installed in the wheel 20 and rotates with the wheel 20 relative to the vehicle body 10 about the steering rotation center axis X. As described above, when the wheel side device 28 is conceived as an in-wheel motor, the vehicle body side device 18 can be conceived as a drive unit that drives the in-wheel motor. For example, if the in-wheel motor is a three-phase induction motor, the vehicle body side device 18 can be conceived as an inverter unit that provides three-phase AC power (U-phase, V-phase, and W-phase) for driving the in-wheel motor. Furthermore, the vehicle body side device 18 is a device disposed on the vehicle body 10 that does not rotate even when the wheel 20 rotates about the steering rotation center axis X.

[0055] The wheel-side device 28 does not necessarily have to be an in-wheel motor. Instead of an in-wheel motor, or in addition to an in-wheel motor, the wheel-side device 28 could be a sensor, an electric brake, or something similar. For example, the sensor could be a sensor that detects the rotational speed of the wheel, or a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of an in-wheel motor, etc. The wheel-side device 28 could also be an electric brake that includes a motor and uses electricity to brake the rotation of the wheel 20. The electric brake could be an electric parking brake used when the vehicle is stationary, or a brake used when the vehicle is in motion. The body-side device 18 can simply be a device that sends and receives signals and supplies power to these wheel-side devices 28. For example, the body-side device 18 could also be a device that includes functions such as receiving signals from sensors and controlling the aforementioned electric brakes as an ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The body-side device 18 can be installed inside or outside the body 10. Here, the body-side device 18 is installed inside the body 10.

[0056] The wiring component 50 includes a first linear transmission component 52 and a second linear transmission component 53. One end of the wiring component 50 is connected to the vehicle side device 18. The other end of the wiring component 50 is connected to the wheel side device 28. The first linear transmission component 52 and the second linear transmission component 53 are linear components that transmit electricity or light. The second linear transmission component 53 is thinner than the first linear transmission component 52. Here, an example is shown where the first linear transmission component 52 is a power line 52 and the second linear transmission component 53 is a signal line 53 (see reference). Figure 3 The power cord 52 is an electrical wire with a sheath 52b formed around the core wire 52a. The power cord 52 is, for example, a three-phase AC power cord supplying power to the in-wheel motor. Figure 3 Three power lines 52 are shown. The signal line 53 is a wire formed by forming a covering portion 53b around the core wire 53a. The signal line 53 is a signal transmission line, for example, a sensor 28b (see reference). Figure 1 ) Signal lines used for control, in Figure 3 The diagram shows two signal lines 53. Because a larger current may flow through the power line 52 than through the signal line 53, the core wire 53a is thinner than the core wire 52a. Additionally, the signal line 53 is generally thinner than the power line 52. The wiring component 50 may replace the power line 52, the signal line 53, or, in addition to the power line 52 and the signal line 53, include optical fiber. Alternatively, the first linear transmission component 52 and the second linear transmission component 53 may both be power lines or signal lines, with the latter being thinner than the former.

[0057] Multiple linear transmission components (here, power lines 52 and signal lines 53) can also be combined into one. The structure for combining power lines 52 and signal lines 53 into one can be any structure. For example, power lines 52 and signal lines 53 can also be combined into one via a protective portion. The protective portion can be, for example, a corrugated tube, spirally wound tape, a sheath extruded and wrapped around the power lines 52 and signal lines 53, or a resin or metal tube. Power lines 52 and signal lines 53 do not need to be combined into one via a protective portion or the like along their entire length. For example, the aforementioned protective portion can be omitted, and power lines 52 and signal lines 53 can be combined into one by supporting the wiring component 50 in a constant position using a bracket. This bracket can also be a support component 60. Here, an example is shown where multiple power lines 52 and signal lines 53 are combined into one by an upper support portion 62 and a lower support portion 64.

[0058] The cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 can be any shape. Figure 3 The diagram shows an example where multiple power lines 52 are arranged in parallel, a signal line 53 is gathered on one side of the parallel direction, and the cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 is flat. The cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 can also be circular, elliptical, etc. Furthermore, a cross-section refers to a section at a plane orthogonal to the axis of the wiring component 50.

[0059] One end of the wiring component 50 can also be connected to the vehicle-side equipment 18 via a connector. The wiring component 50 can also be led directly out from the vehicle-side equipment 18. One end of the wiring component 50 can also be connected to the vehicle-side equipment 18 via other wiring components.

[0060] The other end of the wiring component 50 can also be connected to the wheel-side device 28 via connector 51. Alternatively, the other end of the wiring component 50 can be directly connected to the wheel-side device 28 without a connector. At the other end of the wiring component 50, multiple wires can also be branched and connected to different parts.

[0061] The wiring component 50 can also be arranged such that it passes through the rotation center axis X. Here, "the wiring component 50 passes through the rotation center axis X" means that the rotation center axis X passes through the smallest encompassing circle C at a certain cross-section along the length of the wiring component 50. Furthermore, the smallest encompassing circle C is the smallest circle that can encompass the portion of the wiring component 50 exposed in the cross-section. For example, if the cross-sectional shape of the wiring component 50 is circular, the circumcircle of the wiring component 50 exposed in that cross-section is the smallest encompassing circle C. Additionally, the rotation center axis X passing through the smallest encompassing circle C includes cases where the rotation center axis X passes through the boundary line of the smallest encompassing circle.

[0062] As long as the steering rotation center axis X passes through the smallest enclosing circle C, the cases where the wiring component 50 passes through the steering rotation center axis X include the case where the wiring component 50 intersects the steering rotation center axis X and the case where a portion of the wiring component 50 is along the steering rotation center axis X. Figure 1 The diagram shows an example of a portion 50a of the wiring component 50 being positioned along the rotational axis X. Since the rotational axis X only needs to pass through the smallest containing circle C, the central axis of the wiring component 50 does not need to be aligned with the rotational axis X in the portion of the wiring component 50 along the rotational axis X.

[0063] That is, the positional relationship is acceptable as long as the part of the wiring component 50 that passes through the turning rotation center axis X (the intersecting part) or the part of the wiring component 50 along the turning rotation center axis X, whichever is the smallest enclosing circle C that the turning rotation center axis X passes through at the cross-section of the wiring component 50.

[0064] To suppress bending deformation of the wiring component 50, it is preferable to lengthen the portion of the wiring component 50 along the rotation axis X. Furthermore, the support member 60 supports the wiring component 50 such that it passes through the rotation axis X, including both cases where the wiring component 50 passes through the rotation axis X and is movable along its extension direction, and cases where it is immobile.

[0065] It is not necessary for the wiring component 50 to be arranged in a manner that passes through the steering rotation center axis X. The wiring component 50 may be arranged to pass through a position away from the steering rotation center axis X. In this case, it is also preferred that at least a portion of the wiring component 50 is parallel to the steering rotation center axis X. However, it is not necessary for the wiring component 50 to be in a direction parallel to the steering rotation center axis X.

[0066] The support member 60 supports the wiring component 50 such that at least a portion of the wiring component 50, the first linear transmission member 52 (here, the power line 52) is located closer to the steering rotation center axis X than the second linear transmission member 53 (here, the signal line 53). The support member 60 only needs to support the wiring component 50 in the manner described above; there are no particular limitations on its structure. The support member can be a single support member or can comprise multiple support portions. The support member can be supported on the side of the vehicle body 10 or on the side of the wheel 20. Here, supporting the support member on the side of the vehicle body 10 means supporting a portion that does not rotate even when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation center axis X. For example, the support member is supported on the aforementioned shock absorber 36 or lower arm 32. Conversely, supporting the support member 60 on the side of the wheel 20 means supporting a portion that rotates with the wheel 20 when it rotates around the steering rotation center axis X. For example, the support member is supported on the aforementioned upper steering knuckle portion 25 or lower steering knuckle portion 26.

[0067] In this embodiment, the support member 60 includes an upper support portion 62 and a lower support portion 64. The lower support portion 64 is disposed below the upper support portion 62. Furthermore, the wiring member 50 is supported by the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64, and the wiring member 50 passes through the rotation center axis X between the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64.

[0068] More specifically, the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64 are disposed between the front end of the upper steering knuckle portion 25 and the front end of the lower steering knuckle portion 26. The front end of the upper steering knuckle portion 25, the upper support portion 62, the lower support portion 64, and the front end of the lower steering knuckle portion 26 are arranged sequentially from top to bottom along the steering rotation center axis X with gaps. The upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64 are supported on the front end of the shock absorber 36 by the extension support portion 61. The extension support portion 61 extends downward from the lower end of the shock absorber 36, around the front end of the upper steering knuckle portion 25, in a posture parallel to the steering rotation center axis X. The extension support portion 61 can also be fixed to the shock absorber 36 by welding, threaded locking, etc. The front end of the extension support portion 61 reaches a position closer to the front end of the lower steering knuckle portion 26. Since the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64 are supported on the shock absorber 36 via the extended support portion 61, they do not follow the rotation of the wheel 20 centered on the steering rotation center axis X. Therefore, the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64 are supported on the side of the vehicle body 10.

[0069] The upper support portion 62 is supported at the middle of the extending direction of the extended support portion 61. The upper support portion 62 can be integrally formed with the extended support portion 61, or it can be fixed to the extended support portion 61 by welding, threaded locking, or the like. The upper support portion 62 is positioned downwards from the front end of the upper steering knuckle portion 25 along the steering rotation center axis X. In this configuration, the upper support portion 62 supports a portion of the wiring component 50 at a position on the steering rotation center axis X. The upper support portion 62 can simply be a structure that supports a portion of the wiring component 50 in a constant position. For example, the upper support portion 62 can also be an annular component with a hole through which the wiring component 50 is inserted. The upper support portion 62 can also be a structure in which a pair of clips clamp a portion of the wiring component 50 and are threadedly locked. The upper support portion 62 can also be a structure with a rivet that is riveted and fixed to a portion of the wiring component 50. The upper support portion 62 can also support a portion of the wiring component 50 in a non-rotatable state.

[0070] The lower support portion 64 is supported on the front end of the extension support portion 61. The lower support portion 64 may be integrally formed with the extension support portion 61, or it may be fixed to the extension support portion 61 by welding, threaded locking, or the like. The lower support portion 64 is positioned along the steering rotation center axis X, extending downwards from the upper support portion 62 and upwards from the front end of the lower steering knuckle portion 26. In this configuration, the lower support portion 64 supports a portion of the wiring component 50 at its position on the steering rotation center axis X.

[0071] The lower support 64 can also be a structure that supports the wiring component 50 in a state that allows rotation around the rotation center axis X.

[0072] Here, the lower support portion 64 includes an outer main body portion 64a and an inner rotating support portion 64b. The outer main body portion 64a is supported on the shock absorber 36 by the aforementioned extended support portion 61. Therefore, the outer main body portion 64a is the part that does not rotate even when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation center axis X. The inner rotating support portion 64b is supported on the outer main body portion 64a in a rotatable manner. As this lower support portion 64, various bearing structures such as rolling bearings and fluid bearings can also be used. The inner rotating support portion 64b can support the wiring component 50 in a rotatable state or in a non-rotatable state. In the latter case, when the wiring component 50 twists, the inner rotating support portion 64b rotates relative to the outer main body portion 64a, so friction is unlikely to occur between the wiring component 50 and the inner rotating support portion 64b. In addition, the arrangement of the wiring component 50 is less likely to become disordered within the inner rotating support portion 64b. Here, a retaining hole with the same cross-sectional shape as the wiring component 50 is formed in the inner rotating support portion 64b. The wiring component 50 is held in a non-rotating state relative to the inner rotating support portion 64b. The wiring component 50 can rotate relative to the outer main body portion 64a together with the inner rotating support portion 64b.

[0073] The lower support portion 64 can also be formed as an annular shape with an inner diameter larger than the minimum encompassing circle C of the wiring component 50. In this case, the wiring component 50 can rotate within the hole of the lower support portion 64.

[0074] Wiring component 50 extends from body-side device 18 within body 10, passes through fender 16, and is guided to the front end of upper steering knuckle portion 25. Wiring component 50 passes between the front end of upper steering knuckle portion 25 and upper support portion 62, and is supported by upper support portion 62 on steering rotation center axis X. Further, wiring component 50 is guided to lower support portion 64 and supported by lower support portion 64 on steering rotation center axis X. The portion of wiring component 50 between upper support portion 62 and lower support portion 64 becomes the portion supported along steering rotation center axis X. Further, wiring component 50 passes between lower support portion 64 and the front end of lower steering knuckle portion 26, extends towards wheel-side device 28, and is connected to wheel-side device 28 via connector 51.

[0075] If the lower support 64 supports the wiring component 50 so that it can rotate, the torsion of the wiring component 50 caused by the rotation of the wheel 20 centered on the steering rotation center axis X can be transmitted between the lower support 64 and the upper support 62 in the wiring component 50. Conversely, if the upper support 62 supports the wiring component 50 so that it cannot rotate, the torsion of the wiring component 50 is difficult to transmit to the side of the wiring component 50 closer to the vehicle body 10 than the upper support 62.

[0076] In this embodiment, the support member 60 supports the wiring member 50 such that the power line 52 is located closer to the steering rotation center axis X than the signal line 53 at a portion of the wiring member 50 along the steering rotation center axis X. Furthermore, the distance of each linear transmission member relative to the steering rotation center axis X can be determined based on the distance between the steering rotation center axis X and the central axis of the linear transmission member.

[0077] More specifically, three power lines 52 converge in a parallel configuration in contact, with two signal lines 53 positioned on one side. A support member 60 supports the wiring component 50 such that the rotation axis X aligns with the central axis of the three parallel power lines 52. Since the two signal lines 53 are positioned on one side of the three parallel power lines 52, the distance between the two signal lines 53 and the rotation axis X is greater than the distances between the three power lines 52 and the rotation axis X. Therefore, each power line 52 is located closer to the rotation axis X than each signal line 53.

[0078] The multiple power lines 52 can also be in other structures, such as being arranged at the vertices of a regular polygon (e.g., an equilateral triangle). The multiple power lines 52 can also be twisted together. The multiple signal lines 53 do not need to be offset from a portion of the power lines 52; they can also be distributed around them. The multiple signal lines 53 can be arranged in a parallel state or twisted together.

[0079] Based on the wiring module 40 and its arrangement 30 for the walking system, in at least a portion of the wiring component 50, the power line 52 is positioned closer to the signal line 53. Therefore, when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation axis X, the thick power line 52 is less prone to bending deformation. The thick power line 52 has the physical property of being difficult to bend, thus minimizing deterioration caused by bending deformation. Conversely, when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation axis X, the thin signal line 53 is more prone to bending deformation than the power line 52. The thin signal line 53 has the physical property of being easily bent, and even if bending deformation occurs, it is less likely to cause deterioration. Therefore, the overall wiring module 40 for the walking system can further improve its resistance to repeated bending deformation.

[0080] It is not necessary for the power cable 52 to be located closer to the steering rotation center axis X than the signal cable 53 in the entire area of ​​the wiring component 50. However, in the portion of the wiring component 50 parallel to the steering rotation center axis X, the power cable 52 is preferably located closer to the steering rotation center axis X than the signal cable 53. Therefore, when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation center axis X, the power cable 52, which is closer to the steering rotation center axis X in the portion of the wiring component 50 parallel to the steering rotation center axis X, is prone to bending and deformation.

[0081] Additionally, the support member 60 supports the wiring member 50 along the rotation axis X in such a way that at least a portion of the wiring member 50 is positioned closer to the rotation axis X than the signal line 53.

[0082] In this case, at least a portion of the wiring component 50 is supported at the steering rotation center axis X. Therefore, when the wheel 20 rotates due to steering operation, the distance variation between the portion of the wiring component 50 located at the steering rotation center axis X and the wheel-side device 28 is suppressed. As a result, bending deformation of the wiring component 50 is suppressed when the wheel 20 rotates due to steering operation. In addition, the portion of the wiring component 50 along the steering rotation center axis X can be twisted. As a result, the deformation caused by the rotation of the wheel 20 centered on the steering rotation center axis X is widely dispersed, further extending the lifespan of the wiring component 50.

[0083] Reference Figure 3 To explain in more detail. Figure 3 In the figure, solid lines represent the wheel-side device 28 and the wiring component 50 facing the wheel-side device 28 when the vehicle body is in a straight line, and double-dotted lines represent the wheel-side device 28 and the wiring component 50 facing the wheel-side device 28 when the vehicle body is turning. As shown in the figure, when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation center axis X, the wheel-side device 28, which is the connection target of the wiring component 50, also rotates around the steering rotation center axis X. Therefore, the distance between the steering rotation center axis X and the wheel-side device 28 is kept as constant as possible. The wiring component 50 is connected to the wheel-side device 28 via the steering rotation center axis X, so even when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation center axis X, the portion of the wiring component 50 that passes through the steering rotation center axis X to the wheel-side device 28 is kept as constant a length L as possible. Therefore, when the wheel 20 rotates due to steering, it is difficult for forces to extend or contract the wiring component 50, and bending deformation of the wiring component 50 is suppressed.

[0084] Furthermore, by twisting a portion of the wiring component 50 along the steering rotation axis X, it can follow the rotation of the wheel 20. In this case, in particular, by twisting the thick power cable 52, it can follow the rotation of the wheel 20, making it less prone to deterioration. Therefore, the overall resistance to repeated deformation of the wiring module 40 for the walking system is further improved.

[0085] In order to allow the wiring component 50 to undergo torsional deformation between the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64, it is preferable that the torsion caused by the rotation of the wheel 20 centered on the steering rotation axis X is transmitted to a support portion in the wiring component 50 that is above the support portion supported by the lower support portion 64. For example, as described above, the lower support portion 64 may also be structured to support the wiring component 50 in a state that allows rotation centered on the steering rotation axis X. Thus, following the rotation of the wheel 20 caused by steering operation, the portion of the wiring component 50 between the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64 can be easily torsional deformed.

[0086] Alternatively, the support member 60 may support the wiring member 50 in such a way that the torsion of the wiring member 50 is not transmitted from the support portion supported by the support member 60 to the vehicle body 10 side. For example, as in the embodiment described above, the upper support portion 62 may be supported on the vehicle body 10 side, such as the front end of the shock absorber 36, and the upper support portion 62 may support the wiring member 50 in a non-rotatable manner.

[0087] As described above, the first linear transmission component 52 can be a power line 52, and the second linear transmission component 53 can be a signal line 53. Therefore, by employing a layout where the thick and difficult-to-bend power line 52 is less prone to bending and deformation due to the rotation of the wheel, and the thin and easily bendable signal line 53 is less prone to bending and deformation due to the rotation of the wheel 20, the overall wiring module 40 for the walking system can be further improved to withstand repeated deformation.

[0088] Furthermore, the power cable 52 is positioned at a location where it is less likely to bend or deform due to the rotation of the wheels, thus further improving the durability of the power cable required for driving compared to signals generated by sensors, etc. As a result, the vehicle's driving continuity is further improved.

[0089] [Variation Example]

[0090] As an example, the power line 52, which serves as the first linear transmission component 52, is positioned closer to the rotation center axis X than the signal line 53, which serves as the second linear transmission component 53. Various variations can be considered.

[0091] For example, it can also be like Figure 4As shown in the wiring component 150, multiple power cables 52 are bundled and covered by a protective section 56. The protective section 56 can be a corrugated tube, spirally wound tape, a sheath extruded and wrapped around the power cables 52 and signal cables 53, or a resin or metal tube. Furthermore, multiple power cables 52 and multiple signal cables 53 are gathered along the outer periphery of the protective section 56. This gathering can also be maintained by the aforementioned upper support section 62 and lower support section 64. In this case, the steering rotation center axis X is set at the center of the cable formed by the gathering of multiple power cables 52 by the protective section 56. In this case, by the rotation of the wheel 20 centered on the steering rotation center axis X, the multiple power cables 52 undergo torsional deformation within the protective section 56, and the multiple signal cables 53 deform on the outer periphery of the protective section 56. As explained in the above embodiment, the multiple power cables 52 experience less bending deformation because they are close to the steering rotation center axis X. Because the multiple signal lines 53 are farther from the steering rotation center axis X, they undergo greater bending deformation than the power line 52. As described in the above embodiment, the overall wiring module for the walking system has improved resistance to repeated deformation.

[0092] Alternatively, for example, it can also be like Figure 5 As shown in the wiring component 250, multiple (three in this case) power lines 52 and multiple (two in this case) signal lines 53 are bundled and covered by the protective part 256. The protective part 256, like the protective part 56, can be a corrugated tube, spirally wound tape, a sheath that is extruded and wrapped around the power lines 52 and signal lines 53, or it can be a resin or metal tube.

[0093] Multiple power lines 52 are grouped into one. Multiple signal lines 53 are arranged around the grouped power lines 52. The multiple signal lines 53 can be grouped into one or distributed around the grouped power lines 52. In this case, the steering rotation center axis X is set closer to the multiple power lines 52 than the multiple signal lines 53. In other words, the steering rotation center axis X is more biased towards the multiple power lines 52 than the multiple signal lines 53. Here, the steering rotation center axis X is set as the central axis of the wiring component 250. The multiple power lines 52 are thicker than the signal lines 53 and occupy a position near the center of the wiring component 50, so the multiple power lines 52 are closer to the steering rotation center axis X than the multiple signal lines 53. Therefore, similar to the above embodiment, the overall resistance to repeated deformation of the wiring module for the walking system is further improved.

[0094] Furthermore, the number of power lines 52 and the number of signal lines 53 are arbitrary. For example, it can also be as follows: Figure 6As shown in the wiring component 350, the two power lines 52 and two signal lines 53 are covered by the protective part 356 while bundled together. In this case, for example, the steering rotation center axis X is positioned between the two power lines 52, and the signal lines 53 are positioned away from the two power lines 52 and the steering rotation center axis X. In this case, as described above, the overall resistance to repeated deformation of the wiring module for the travel system is further improved.

[0095] Alternatively, for example, it can also be like Figure 7 As shown in the wiring component 450, multiple power lines 52 are arranged side-by-side, and signal lines 53 are provided on one side in the thickness direction. The multiple power lines 52 and signal lines 53 can also be covered by the protective portion 456, similar to the protective portion 56. In this case, the steering rotation center axis X is positioned closer to the multiple power lines 52 than the multiple signal lines 53. Here, the steering rotation center axis X is positioned on the opposite side of the parallel power lines 52 from the signal lines 53. Since the multiple power lines 52 are arranged between the signal lines 53 and the steering rotation center axis X, the multiple power lines 52 are closer to the steering rotation center axis X than the multiple signal lines 53. Therefore, similar to the above embodiment, the overall resistance to repeated deformation of the wiring module for the walking system is further improved.

[0096] Additionally, if as Figure 8 As shown, if at least one first linear transmission member 52 is positioned closer to the steering rotation center axis X than at least one second linear transmission member 53, the overall resistance to repeated deformation of the wiring module for the walking system is further improved. Therefore, the first linear transmission member 52 and the second linear transmission member 53 can also be positioned away from the steering rotation center axis X. This is because, in this case, when the wheel 20 rotates around the steering rotation center axis X, the bending deformation of the first linear transmission member 52 closer to the steering rotation center axis X is also suppressed relative to the bending deformation of the second linear transmission member 53 farther from the steering rotation center axis X.

[0097] Alternatively, it can be like Figure 9 As shown, multiple first linear transmission components 52 are bundled together in a manner that makes contact between adjacent portions. Figure 9In this configuration, three first linear transmission components 52 are bundled together with their centers positioned at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. The steering rotation center axis X is located at the center of the plurality of first linear transmission components 52, and here it is the geometric center of the polygon (here, a triangle) drawn by the centers of the three first linear transmission components 52. Preferably, a thinner second linear transmission component 53 is embedded in the gaps 610 between the plurality of first linear transmission components 52 at a position farther from the steering rotation center axis X than the plurality of first linear transmission components 52. Here, three gaps 610 are formed around the three first linear transmission components 52, and the three second linear transmission components 53 are embedded into each of the aforementioned gaps 610. Figure 9 In this configuration, a triangular groove-shaped gap 610 is formed between adjacent first linear transmission members 52. The portion of the second linear transmission member 53 on the X-side of the rotation center axis is accommodated within the gap 610. In this configuration, protective portions 656, such as sheaths, are wrapped around the outer peripheries of the first and second linear transmission members 52 and 53 to maintain the aforementioned bundled shape.

[0098] According to this example, the wiring component 600 can be made thinner and a plurality of first linear transmission components 52 can be positioned closer to the rotation center axis X than the second linear transmission component 53.

[0099] When the wiring component includes linear transmission components of various thicknesses, the thickest one or more linear transmission components can be designated as the first linear transmission component, and the thinnest one or more linear transmission components can be designated as the second linear transmission component.

[0100] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the support member 560 involved in the modified example. In this modified example, the extended support portion 561 of the support member 560, which corresponds to the extended support portion 61, supports the upper support portion 62 but does not support the lower support portion 64.

[0101] The lower support portion 64 is supported on the lower steering knuckle portion 26. That is, the extended support portion 563 is provided extending upward from the front end of the lower steering knuckle portion 26 along the steering rotation center axis X. The lower support portion 64 is supported at the front end of the extended support portion 563. The extended support portion 563 and the lower steering knuckle portion 26 and the lower support portion 64 can be welded, threaded, or integrally formed.

[0102] In this modified example, the lower support portion 64 is supported on the lower steering knuckle portion 26 via the extended support portion 563. Therefore, when the wheel rotates around the steering rotation center axis X, the lower support portion 64 also rotates around the steering rotation center axis X. Therefore, even though the lower support portion 64 supports the wiring component 50 in a non-rotatable manner, just like the support structure formed by the upper support portion 62, the wiring component 50 can still be twisted between the upper support portion 62 and the lower support portion 64.

[0103] In this case, the lower support 64 can be supported on the side of the wheel 20. For example, the lower support 64 may also be supported on the wheel-side device 28 via other support components. That is, the lower support 64 rotates around the steering rotation axis X, but it may also be directly or indirectly supported on a part that does not rotate around the travel rotation axis.

[0104] Furthermore, the structures described in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0105] Label Explanation

[0106] 10. Body

[0107] 12. Base plate section

[0108] 14. Main Body

[0109] 16 Mudguards

[0110] 18. Vehicle side equipment

[0111] 19 Steering Wheel

[0112] 19a steering drive shaft

[0113] 19b transmission mechanism

[0114] 20 wheels

[0115] 22-inch wheels

[0116] 22a disk section

[0117] 22b Tire Assembly Department

[0118] 24 tires

[0119] 25 Upper steering knuckle

[0120] 26. Lower steering knuckle

[0121] 26a arm

[0122] 28 wheel side equipment

[0123] 28a drive shaft

[0124] 30. Layout and Structure

[0125] 32 Lower arm

[0126] 33 Bearing section

[0127] 35 springs

[0128] 36 Shock absorbers

[0129] 37 Bearing section

[0130] 38 pull rod

[0131] 40 Wiring module for walking system

[0132] 50 Wiring components

[0133] Part of 50a wiring components

[0134] 51 connector

[0135] 52 Power cord (first linear transmission component)

[0136] 52a core wire

[0137] 52b Covering Section

[0138] 53 Signal line (second linear transmission component)

[0139] 53a core wire

[0140] 53b Covering Part

[0141] 56 Protection Department

[0142] 60 Support components

[0143] 61 Extended support section

[0144] 62 Upper support section

[0145] 64 Lower support section

[0146] 64a Outer Main Body

[0147] 64b Inner Rotary Support

[0148] 150 wiring components

[0149] 250 wiring components

[0150] 256 Protection Department

[0151] 350 wiring components

[0152] 356 Protection Department

[0153] 450 wiring components

[0154] 456 Protection Department

[0155] 560 support components

[0156] 561 Extended Support Section

[0157] 563 Extended Support Section

[0158] 600 wiring components

[0159] 610 gap

[0160] 656 Protection Department

[0161] C Minimum Containing Circle

[0162] X-axis is the center axis of rotation for steering.

Claims

1. A wiring module for a walking system, comprising: Wiring components connect the vehicle-side equipment to the wheel-side equipment; and Support component, supporting the wiring component The wiring component includes a first linear transmission component and a second linear transmission component that is thinner than the first linear transmission component. The support member supports the wiring component in such a manner that the first linear transmission member is located closer to the rotation center axis than the second linear transmission member at at least a portion of the wiring component. The support member supports the wiring component in such a manner that at least a portion of the wiring component is parallel to the rotation center axis. In the portion of the wiring assembly parallel to the steering rotation center axis, the first linear transmission component is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission component.

2. The wiring module for the walking system according to claim 1, wherein, The support member supports the wiring component in such a manner that at least a portion of the wiring component is along the rotational axis. In the portion of the wiring assembly along the steering rotation center axis, the first linear transmission component is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission component.

3. The wiring module for the walking system according to claim 2, wherein, The portion of the wiring component along the steering rotation center axis passes through the smallest enclosing circle at the cross-section of the wiring component.

4. The wiring module for a walking system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The first linear transmission component is a power line, and the second linear transmission component is a signal line.

5. The wiring module for a walking system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The wiring component includes a plurality of the first linear transmission components. In at least a portion of the wiring assembly, a plurality of first linear transmission components are bundled together, and a second linear transmission component is embedded in the gap between the plurality of first linear transmission components at a position farther from the steering rotation center axis than the plurality of first linear transmission components.

6. A wiring module arrangement for a walking system, wherein, It has wiring components that connect vehicle-side equipment to wheel-side equipment. A portion of the wiring components is arranged around a pivotal axis. The wiring component includes a first linear transmission component and a second linear transmission component that is thinner than the first linear transmission component. At least a portion of the wiring component, the first linear transmission component is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission component, and at least a portion of the wiring component is arranged parallel to the steering rotation center axis. In the portion of the wiring assembly parallel to the steering rotation center axis, the first linear transmission component is located closer to the steering rotation center axis than the second linear transmission component.

Images