Rotary connector device

Abstract

A rotary connector device (1) has a first housing (10), a second housing (20), and a stopper structure (70). The stopper structure (70) includes a movable member (71), a movement conversion portion (72), and a stopper (73). The movable member (71) is rotatable with the second housing (20) relative to the first housing (10) about a rotation axis (A1), and is movable relative to the first housing (10) and the second housing (20) in an axial direction (D1) defined along the rotation axis (A1). The movement conversion portion (72) is configured to convert relative rotation of the first housing (10) and the second housing (20) into movement of the movable member (71) relative to the first housing (10) and the second housing (20) in the axial direction (D1). The stopper (73) is provided to at least one of the first housing (10) and the second housing (20), and is contactable with the movable member (71).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The technology disclosed in the present application relates to a rotary connector device. BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, a rotary connector device includes a fixed member, a rotary member, and a cable. When the rotary connector device is mounted to a vehicle body, the fixed member is fixed to the vehicle body, and a steering wheel is attached to the rotary member. A housing space in which the cable is arranged is formed between the fixed member and the rotary member. The cable is wound in a circumferential direction in the housing space, rotation of the rotary member relative to the fixed member is allowed within a prescribed range, and an electronic component provided to the vehicle body and an electronic component provided to the steering wheel are electrically connected (for example, refer to Patent Literature 1).

[0003] The rotary connector device has a neutral rotation position in which a rotation angle of the rotary member relative to the fixed member is equal in a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction. When the rotary connector device is mounted to the vehicle body, it is preferable to mount it in the state of the neutral rotation position.

[0004] Therefore, a visual confirmation window for confirming the neutral rotation position of the rotary connector device is proposed (for example, refer to Patent Literature 2). In this rotary connector device, whether the rotary member is in the neutral rotation position is determined by confirming the position of the cable from the visual confirmation window.

[0005] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0006] PATENT LITERATURE

[0007] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-218639

[0008] Patent Literature 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-032762 SUMMARY

[0009] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0010] In order to stabilize the state of the cable of the rotary connector device, it is preferable to limit the rotation angle of the rotary body relative to the stator to a prescribed rotation angle. In the rotary connector described in Patent Literature 1, the rotation of the rotary housing relative to the fixed housing is stopped by the engagement of the stopper member and the rotation restriction portion.

[0011] However, in the rotary connector described in Patent Document 1, the stop member is moved in a direction away from the rotation restriction portion or to the side of the rotation restriction portion by a force acting from the cable. Therefore, when the state of the cable is different from the assumed state due to the influence of individual differences of products or annual deterioration, the operation of the stop member is unstable, and, for example, it can be possible that the rotation of the rotary housing is stopped at a desired rotation angle, or it can be possible that the rotation of the rotary housing is stopped before reaching the desired rotation angle. Stabilization of the operation of the stop member is also effective for suppression of breakage of the cable, which is a general problem.

[0012] In addition, in the conventional rotary connector device, in a state in which the rotary member is not in the neutral rotation position (for example, a state in which the rotary member is rotated by two turns from the neutral rotation position), there is also a case in which the cable is visible from the visual confirmation window. Therefore, in the rotary connector device having the visual confirmation window, there is also a case in which it is not possible to reliably determine whether the rotary member is in the neutral rotation position.

[0013] The technical problem disclosed in the present application is to stabilize the operation of a stop structure that limits the rotation angle of a rotor with respect to a stator to a prescribed rotation angle.

[0014] Another technical problem of the technology disclosed in the present application is to provide a rotary connector device that can reliably determine the neutral rotation position.

[0015] Means for solving the problem

[0016] According to the first feature, the rotary connector device has a first housing, a second housing, and a stop structure. The first housing and the second housing are provided so as to be able to rotate with respect to each other about a rotation axis, and form a cable accommodation space provided in a manner of surrounding the rotation axis. The stop structure is configured to limit the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing to a prescribed rotation angle. The stop structure includes a movable member, a movement conversion portion, and a stopper. The movable member is able to rotate with respect to the first housing about the rotation axis together with the second housing, and the movable member is able to move with respect to the first housing and the second housing in an axial direction defined along the rotation axis. The movement conversion portion is configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing to movement of the movable member with respect to the first housing and the second housing in the axial direction. The stopper is provided to at least one of the first housing and the second housing, and is able to come into contact with the movable member.

[0017] In the rotary connector device of the first feature, when the first housing and the second housing relatively rotate, the movement conversion portion moves the movable member in the axial direction with respect to the first housing and the second housing. When the movable member moves in the axial direction, the movable member comes into contact with the stopper, and the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing is restricted. Thus, the stabilization of the operation of the stopper structure can be achieved, and the breakage of the cable can be more reliably suppressed.

[0018] According to the second feature, in the rotary connector device of the first feature, the movement conversion portion is rotatable with the first housing with respect to the second housing and the movable member about the rotation axis.

[0019] In the rotary connector device of the second feature, the movement conversion portion moves the movable member in the axial direction by the relative rotation of the movement conversion portion and the movable member.

[0020] According to the third feature, in the rotary connector device of the second feature, the movement conversion portion is provided on the radially outer side of the movable member.

[0021] In the rotary connector device of the third feature, it is easy to secure the space required for providing the movement conversion portion.

[0022] According to the fourth feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the first to third features, the first housing includes a central opening extending in the axial direction. At least one of the movable member, the movement conversion portion, and the stopper is at least partially provided in the central opening.

[0023] In the rotary connector device of the fourth feature, the central opening can be effectively utilized as the space required for providing the stopper structure, and the enlargement of the rotary connector device accompanying the provision of the stopper structure can be suppressed.

[0024] According to the fifth feature, in the rotary connector device of the fourth feature, the first housing includes an inner peripheral portion at least partially defining the central opening. The movement conversion portion is provided to the inner peripheral portion of the first housing.

[0025] In the rotary connector device of the fifth feature, the inner peripheral portion of the first housing can be effectively utilized as the portion in which the movement conversion portion is disposed, and the enlargement of the rotary connector device accompanying the provision of the stopper structure can be more reliably suppressed.

[0026] According to the sixth feature, in the rotary connector device of the fifth feature, the movement conversion portion includes a conversion groove configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing into the movement of the movable member in the axial direction. The movable member includes an outer peripheral portion disposed in the conversion groove.

[0027] In the rotary connector device of the sixth feature, by using the conversion groove, the configuration of the movement conversion portion can be simplified.

[0028] According to a seventh feature, in the rotary connector device of the sixth feature, the conversion groove extends in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis.

[0029] In the rotary connector device of the seventh feature, the configuration of the movement conversion section can be further simplified.

[0030] According to an eighth feature, in the rotary connector device of the sixth feature or the seventh feature, the conversion groove extends in a helical shape around the rotation axis.

[0031] In the rotary connector device of the eighth feature, the configuration of the movement conversion section can be further simplified.

[0032] According to a ninth feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the fifth through eighth features, the first housing includes: a first housing main body configured to have a ring shape and to partially form a cable accommodation space; and a cylindrical section extending in an axial direction from the first housing main body and including an inner peripheral section.

[0033] In the rotary connector device of the ninth feature, the inner peripheral section is easily provided in the first housing by the cylindrical section.

[0034] According to a tenth feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the first through ninth features, at least one of the second housing and the movable member includes at least one guide opening. At least one of the second housing and the movable member includes at least one guide protrusion extending in an axial direction and provided in the at least one guide opening.

[0035] In the rotary connector device of the tenth feature, the configuration in which the second housing and the movable member are relatively movable in the axial direction and integrally rotatable around the rotation axis can be achieved by a simple configuration.

[0036] According to an eleventh feature, in the rotary connector device of the tenth feature, the at least one guide opening includes a plurality of guide openings arranged at intervals in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis. The at least one guide protrusion includes a plurality of guide protrusions arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction and respectively provided in the plurality of guide openings.

[0037] In the rotary connector device of the eleventh feature, by the plurality of guide openings and the plurality of guide protrusions, the connection strength of the second housing and the movable member in the rotation direction can be improved.

[0038] According to a 12th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 10th or 11th feature, the 2nd housing includes: a 2nd housing main body configured to have a ring shape and partially form a cable accommodation space; and a sleeve that is a separate member from the 2nd housing main body and is coupled to the 2nd housing main body. The movable member is coupled to the sleeve in a manner that is movable in the axial direction.

[0039] In the rotary connector device of the 12th feature, the sleeve can be used as a portion that supports the movable member, and simplification of the structure of the 2nd housing and the movable member can be achieved.

[0040] According to a 13th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 12th feature, the sleeve includes a sleeve main body and at least one guide protrusion that protrudes from the sleeve main body in the axial direction. The movable member includes at least one guide opening.

[0041] In the rotary connector device of the 13th feature, simplification of the structure of the 2nd housing and the movable member can be achieved more reliably.

[0042] According to a 14th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 1st through 13th features, a prescribed rotation angle of the stop structure is defined between the 1st relative rotation position and the 2nd relative rotation position. In a state in which the movable member is in contact with the stopper, the 1st housing and the 2nd housing are disposed at the 1st relative rotation position.

[0043] In the rotary connector device of the 14th feature, the relative rotation of the 1st housing and the 2nd housing can be stopped at the 1st relative rotation position by the movable member and the stopper.

[0044] According to a 15th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 14th feature, further provided is a cable disposed in the cable housing space. The 1st housing includes an inner peripheral surface that partially forms the cable housing space. The 2nd housing includes an outer peripheral surface that is disposed radially inward of the inner peripheral surface and that partially forms the cable housing space. The cable includes a 1st winding portion that winds along the inner peripheral surface of the 1st housing, a 2nd winding portion that winds along the outer peripheral surface of the 2nd housing, and a reversal portion that is disposed between the 1st winding portion and the 2nd winding portion and that links the 1st winding portion and the 2nd winding portion. The cable is disposed in the cable housing space in such a manner that the length of the 2nd winding portion of the cable that winds the outer peripheral surface decreases when the 2nd housing rotates relative to the 1st housing in a 1st rotational direction. The cable is disposed in the cable housing space in such a manner that the length of the 2nd winding portion of the cable that winds the outer peripheral surface increases when the 2nd housing rotates relative to the 1st housing in a 2nd rotational direction opposite the 1st rotational direction. The movement conversion portion is configured to cause the movable member to move in a 1st movement direction toward the side of the stopper when the 2nd housing rotates relative to the 1st housing in one of the 1st rotational direction and the 2nd rotational direction. The movement conversion portion is configured to cause the movable member to move in a 2nd movement direction opposite the 1st movement direction when the 2nd housing rotates relative to the 1st housing in the other of the 1st rotational direction and the 2nd rotational direction.

[0045] In the rotary connector device of the 15th feature, the relative rotation of the 1st housing and the 2nd housing can be stopped at the 1st relative rotation position by the movable member and the stopper when the 2nd housing rotates relative to the 1st housing in a 1st rotational direction in which the cable is relaxed. Thus, excessive relaxation of the cable can be suppressed.

[0046] According to a 16th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 1st through 15th features, the stopper includes a stopper surface that faces in the axial direction.

[0047] In the rotary connector device of the 16th feature, the relative rotation of the 1st housing and the 2nd housing can be stopped by stopping the movable member with the stopper surface.

[0048] According to a 17th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 16th feature, the stopper surface extends in a circumferential direction relative to the rotational axis.

[0049] In the rotary connector device of the 17th feature, the stopper surface can be ensured to be wider, and the strength of the stopper structure can be easily ensured.

[0050] According to an 18th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 1st through 17th features, the movement conversion portion is configured to convert the relative rotation of the 1st housing and the 2nd housing into movement of the movable member in the axial direction in such a manner that the movement distance of the movable member relative to the 1st housing and the 2nd housing in the axial direction is proportional to the relative rotation angle of the 1st housing and the 2nd housing.

[0051] In the rotary connector device of the 18th feature, each part is easily designed based on a prescribed rotation angle set by the stopper configuration.

[0052] According to the 19th feature, the rotary connector device of any one of the 1st through 18th features further has a force applying member that applies a force to the movable member in the axial direction.

[0053] In the rotary connector device of the 19th feature, generation of abnormal noise can be suppressed by the force applying member.

[0054] According to the 20th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 1st feature, the movement conversion portion is rotatable about the rotation axis with respect to the 1st housing together with the 2nd housing.

[0055] According to the 21st feature, the rotary connector device of any one of the 1st through 20th features further has an indicator. The indicator is provided to at least one of the 1st housing and the 2nd housing. The indicator is configured to show that the 2nd housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the 1st housing by a positional relationship between the movable member in the axial direction and the indicator.

[0056] In the rotary connector device of the 21st feature, whether the 2nd housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the 1st housing can be reliably determined by visually confirming the positional relationship between the movable member and the indicator.

[0057] According to the 22nd feature, in the rotary connector device of the 21st feature, the 2nd housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the 1st housing in a state where the movable member is disposed at a position indicated by the indicator.

[0058] In the rotary connector device of the 22nd feature, the neutral rotation position of the rotary connector device is easily visually confirmed by the movable member and the indicator.

[0059] According to the 23rd feature, in the rotary connector device of the 21st or 22nd feature, the movable member includes a 1st face toward the axial direction and a 2nd face disposed on a back side of the 1st face in the axial direction. The indicator is configured to show that the 2nd housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the 1st housing by a positional relationship between the 1st face of the movable member and the indicator.

[0060] In the rotary connector device of the 23rd feature, whether the 2nd housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the 1st housing can be more reliably determined by visually confirming the positional relationship between the 1st face of the movable member and the indicator.

[0061] According to a 24th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 23rd feature, in a state where the 1st surface of the movable member is disposed at a position indicated by the indicator, the 2nd housing is disposed at a neutral rotation position with respect to the 1st housing.

[0062] In the rotary connector device of the 24th feature, the neutral rotation position of the rotary connector device is more easily visually confirmed by the 1st surface of the movable member and the indicator.

[0063] According to a 25th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 21st to 24th features, the 2nd housing is rotatable by a 1st rotation angle in a 1st rotation direction with respect to the 1st housing from the neutral rotation position, and is rotatable by a 2nd rotation angle in a 2nd rotation direction which is the opposite direction of the 1st rotation direction. The 1st rotation angle is substantially equal to the 2nd rotation angle.

[0064] In the rotary connector device of the 25th feature, the neutral rotation position of the rotary connector device can be more reliably set at the center of the entire rotation angle of the 2nd housing.

[0065] According to a 26th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 21st to 25th features, the 2nd housing includes a 2nd housing main body and a sleeve. The 2nd housing main body is configured to have a ring shape, and partially forms a cable accommodation space. The sleeve is a separate member from the 2nd housing main body, and is coupled to the 2nd housing main body. The movable member is coupled to the sleeve in a manner that is movable in an axial direction. The indicator is disposed in the sleeve.

[0066] In the rotary connector device of the 26th feature, the indicator can be disposed at a position that is easily visually confirmed.

[0067] According to a 27th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 26th feature, the indicator includes at least one of a mark and a reference surface disposed in the sleeve.

[0068] In the rotary connector device of the 27th feature, the structure of the indicator can be simplified.

[0069] According to a 28th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 27th feature, the sleeve includes an inner side surface facing a radially inner side. The indicator is disposed at least partially in the inner side surface of the sleeve.

[0070] In the rotary connector device of the 28th feature, the indicator can be disposed at a position that is more easily visually confirmed.

[0071] According to a 29th feature, in the rotary connector device of the 28th feature, the mark of the indicator is disposed in the inner side surface of the sleeve.

[0072] In the rotary connector device of the 29th feature, the marker can be disposed in a position that is easier to visually confirm.

[0073] According to the 30th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 27th to 29th features, the reference surface of the indicator includes a first reference surface that is provided to the sleeve and is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0074] In the rotary connector device of the 30th feature, the reference surface can be disposed in a position that is easier to visually confirm.

[0075] According to the 31st feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 21st to 30th features, the movable member includes a first surface that faces the axial direction and a second surface that is provided to the back side of the first surface in the axial direction. In a state in which the first surface of the movable member coincides with the reference surface in the axial direction, the second housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the first housing.

[0076] In the rotary connector device of the 31st feature, the first surface of the movable member and the reference surface are used to more easily visually confirm the neutral rotation position of the rotary connector device.

[0077] According to the 32nd feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 21st to 31st features, the indicator is disposed radially inward of the movement conversion portion.

[0078] In the rotary connector device of the 32nd feature, the space radially inward of the movement conversion portion can be used as a space for the indicator.

[0079] According to the 33rd feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 21st to 32nd features, the first housing includes a central opening that extends in the axial direction. At least one of the movable member, the movement conversion portion, and the indicator is at least partially disposed within the central opening.

[0080] In the rotary connector device of the 33rd feature, the central opening can be effectively used as a space required to dispose at least one of the movable member, the movement conversion portion, and the indicator.

[0081] According to the 34th feature, in the rotary connector device of any one of the 1st to 34th features, the first housing is a stator configured to be fixed to a vehicle body. The second housing is a rotary body that is rotatable about the rotation axis with respect to the stator. The stopper is provided to at least the stator.

[0082] In the rotary connector device of the 34th feature, the load can be received by the stator when the movable member contacts the stopper, and thus the strength of the stopper structure can be improved.

[0083] Effects of the Invention

[0084] According to the technology disclosed in the present application, a rotary connector device can be provided that can limit the rotation angle of a rotating body with respect to a stator to a prescribed rotation angle by a simple configuration.

[0085] According to the technology disclosed in the present application, a rotary connector device can be provided that can reliably determine a neutral rotation position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0086] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a rotary connector device according to an embodiment.

[0087] Figure 2 is a sectional view of the rotary connector device of line II-II of Figure 1

[0088] Figure 3 is a partial sectional perspective view of the rotary connector device shown in Figure 1

[0089] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a sleeve and a movable member of the rotary connector device shown in Figure 1

[0090] Figure 5 is a partial sectional view of the rotary connector device shown in Figure 1

[0091] Figure 6 is a partial sectional view of a rotary connector device according to a modification.

[0092] Figure 7 is a partial sectional view of a rotary connector device according to a modification.

[0093] Figure 8 is a partial sectional perspective view of the rotary connector device shown in Figure 1

[0094] Figure 9 is a partial sectional perspective view of the rotary connector device shown in Figure 1

[0095] Figure 10 is a partial sectional perspective view of the rotary connector device shown in Figure 1

[0096] Figure 11 is a partial sectional view of a rotary connector device according to a modification.

[0097] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a rotary connector device according to a modification.

[0098] ​​​​​​​Figure 13 is another perspective view of the rotary connector device which is a modification.

[0099] Figure 14 is Figure 13 is a sectional view of the rotary connector device of the line XIV-XIV.

[0100] Figure 15 is a partial side view of the rotary connector device which is a modification.

[0101] Figure 16 is a sectional view of the rotary connector device which is a modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0102] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote corresponding or identical structures.

[0103] As Figure 1 shown, the rotary connector device 1 has a first housing 10 and a second housing 20. The first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are disposed so as to be relatively rotatable about a rotation axis Al. In the present embodiment, for example, the first housing 10 is configured to be fixed to a vehicle body. The second housing 20 is configured to rotate together with a steering wheel. That is, the first housing 10 is a stator configured to be fixed to a vehicle body. The second housing 20 is a rotor capable of rotating about the rotation axis Al with respect to the stator. That is, the first housing 10 can be referred to as a stator 10. The second housing 20 can be referred to as a rotor 20. However, the first housing 10 can also be a rotor, and the second housing 20 can also be a stator. That is, in the present application, a structure provided to the stator 10 can be provided to the rotor 20, and a structure provided to the rotor 20 can be provided to the stator 10.

[0104] The rotary connector device 1 has a first electric connector 30 and a second electric connector 40. The first electric connector 30 is mounted to the first housing 10. The second electric connector 40 is mounted to the second housing 20. The first electric connector 30 is configured to be electrically connected to electrical equipment (for example, a control device and a battery) provided to a vehicle body, for example. The second electric connector 40 is configured to be electrically connected to a circuit of a switch, an airbag device, or the like of a steering wheel, for example.

[0105] As Figure 2 shown, the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 form a cable storage space 50 disposed so as to surround the rotation axis Al. The cable storage space 50 is ring-shaped, for example, and extends in a circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotation axis Al. The rotary connector device 1 also has an electric cable 60 disposed within the cable storage space 50. The electric cable 60 is electrically connected to the first electric connector 30 and the second electric connector 40 Figure 1) electrically connected. The cable 60 is flexible and has a flat shape. The cable 60 can also be referred to as a flexible flat cable. In the present embodiment, the cable 60 includes a plurality of flat cables 61.

[0106] The first housing 10 includes an inner circumferential surface 10B that partially forms the cable storage space 50. The second housing 20 includes an outer circumferential surface 20B that is disposed radially inward of the inner circumferential surface 10B and that partially forms the cable storage space 50. The cable 60 includes a first winding portion 60A, a second winding portion 60B, and a reverse portion 60C. The first winding portion 60A is wound along the inner circumferential surface 10B of the first housing 10. The second winding portion 60B is wound along the outer circumferential surface 20B of the second housing 20. The reverse portion 60C is disposed between the first winding portion 60A and the second winding portion 60B, linking the first winding portion 60A and the second winding portion 60B.

[0107] The first winding portion 60A is electrically connected to the first electrical connector 30. The second winding portion 60B is electrically connected to the second electrical connector 40 Figure 1 ) electrically connected. The reverse portion 60C is bent between the first winding portion 60A and the second winding portion 60B. The reverse portion 60C has, for example, a bent shape that protrudes in the first rotational direction D21. The plurality of flat cables 61 each include the first winding portion 60A, the second winding portion 60B, and the reverse portion 60C.

[0108] The cable 60 is disposed in the cable storage space 50 in such a manner that the length of the second winding portion 60B of the cable 60 wound around the outer circumferential surface 20B decreases when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotational direction D21. The cable 60 is disposed in the cable storage space 50 in such a manner that the length of the second winding portion 60B of the cable 60 wound around the outer circumferential surface 20B increases when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in a second rotational direction D22 opposite the first rotational direction D21. In other words, the cable 60 is disposed in the cable storage space 50 in such a manner that the length of the first winding portion 60A of the cable 60 wound around the inner circumferential surface 10B increases when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotational direction D21. The cable 60 is disposed in the cable storage space 50 in such a manner that the length of the first winding portion 60A of the cable 60 wound around the inner circumferential surface 10B decreases when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotational direction D22.

[0109] However, when the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are excessively rotated relative to each other, the cable 60 can become slack, for example, and the state of the reverse portion 60C of the cable 60 can be damaged.

[0110] Therefore, as Figure 3As shown, the rotary joint device 1 has a stopper structure 70 configured to limit relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 to a prescribed rotation angle. The stopper structure 70 includes a movable member 71, a movement conversion portion 72, and a stopper 73. That is, the rotary joint device 1 has the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73.

[0111] The movable member 71 is rotatable with the second housing 20 relative to the first housing 10 about the rotation axis Al. The movable member 71 is movable relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in an axial direction Dl defined along the rotation axis Al. The movement conversion portion 72 is configured to convert relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 to movement of the movable member 71 relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the axial direction Dl. The stopper 73 is provided to at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. The stopper 73 is configured to limit relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 to a prescribed rotation angle. The stopper 73 is contactable with the movable member 71. In the present embodiment, the stopper 73 is provided to the first housing 10. The stopper 73 is contactable with the movable member 71 in the axial direction Dl. The stopper 73 is provided to at least the stator 10. The stopper 73 is provided to the stator 10. However, the stopper 73 can be provided to only the second housing 20, or to both the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. Alternatively, the stopper 73 can be omitted from the rotary joint device 1.

[0112] The movement conversion portion 72 is rotatable with the first housing 10 relative to the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 about the rotation axis Al. That is, the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 are rotatable relative to the first housing 10 and the movement conversion portion 72 about the rotation axis Al.

[0113] The movement conversion portion 72 is provided radially outward of the movable member 71. The first housing 10 includes a central opening 11 extending in the axial direction Dl. At least one of the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73 is at least partially disposed within the central opening 11.

[0114] In the present embodiment, the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73 are disposed within the central opening 11. However, at least one of the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73 can be partially disposed within the central opening 11. At least one of the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73 can also be disposed radially outward of the central opening 11. The movement conversion portion 72 can also be disposed radially inward of the movable member 71.

[0115] The first housing 10 includes an inner peripheral portion 12 that at least partially defines the central opening 11. The moving conversion portion 72 is provided to the inner peripheral portion 12 of the first housing 10. The first housing 10 includes a first housing main body 14 and a cylindrical portion 15. The first housing main body 14 is configured to have a ring shape, and partially forms the cable storage space 50. The cylindrical portion 15 extends from the first housing main body 14 in the axial direction D1, and includes the inner peripheral portion 12.

[0116] As shown in Figure 1 , the first housing main body 14 includes a first ring-shaped body 16 and a second ring-shaped body 17. The second ring-shaped body 17 is a separate member from the first ring-shaped body 16, and is joined to the first ring-shaped body 16. The first ring-shaped body 16 includes a first ring-shaped plate 16A. The second ring-shaped body 17 includes an outer peripheral wall 17A Figure 1 . The cylindrical portion 15 extends from the inner periphery of the first ring-shaped plate 16A in the axial direction D1.

[0117] The second housing 20 includes a second housing main body 21 and a sleeve 22. The second housing main body 21 is configured to have a ring shape, and partially forms the cable storage space 50. The sleeve 22 is a separate member from the second housing main body 21, and is joined to the second housing main body 21. The movable member 71 is joined to the sleeve 22 in a manner that is movable in the axial direction D1. The second housing main body 21 includes a second ring-shaped plate 23 and an inner peripheral wall 24. The inner peripheral wall 24 extends from the second ring-shaped plate 23 in the axial direction D1.

[0118] At least one of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 includes at least one guide opening 74. At least one of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 includes at least one guide protrusion 75 that extends in the axial direction D1. The at least one guide protrusion 75 is provided within the at least one guide opening 74. The at least one guide opening 74 includes a plurality of guide openings 74 that are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotational axis A1. The at least one guide protrusion 75 includes a plurality of guide protrusions 75 that are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction D3 and are respectively provided within the plurality of guide openings 74.

[0119] As shown in Figure 4 , the sleeve 22 includes a sleeve main body 22A and at least one guide protrusion 75 that protrudes from the sleeve main body 22A in the axial direction D1. The movable member 71 includes at least one guide opening 74. In the present embodiment, the sleeve main body 22A has a ring shape. The second housing 20 includes a plurality of guide protrusions 75 that protrude from the sleeve main body 22A in the axial direction D1. The movable member 71 includes a plurality of guide openings 74. However, the second housing 20 Figure 3 may also include at least one guide opening 74. The movable member 71 may also include at least one guide protrusion 75.

[0120] The movable member 71 has a ring shape. The movable member 71 includes an outer peripheral portion 71A. The plurality of guide openings 74 includes a cutout 74A and a plurality of guide holes 74B. A plurality of guide protrusions 75 is arranged in the cutout 74A and the plurality of guide holes 74B. The plurality of guide openings 74 can include only the cutout 74A or only the guide holes 74B.

[0121] The sleeve 22 includes at least one sleeve link portion 22B. The at least one sleeve link portion 22B links the sleeve main body 22A with the second housing main body 21. The at least one sleeve link portion 22B protrudes from the at least one guide protrusion 75 in the axial direction D1. In the present embodiment, the sleeve 22 includes a plurality of sleeve link portions 22B protruding from the plurality of guide protrusions 75 in the axial direction D1. However, the sleeve link portion 22B can be arranged at a position different from the guide protrusion 75.

[0122] The sleeve 22 includes an axial protrusion 76. The axial protrusion 76 protrudes from the sleeve main body 22A in the axial direction D1. The axial protrusion 76 is arranged radially inward of the plurality of guide protrusions 75. The axial protrusion 76 has a ring shape. The movable member 71 includes an opening 71D. An outer diameter of the axial protrusion 76 is smaller than an inner diameter of the opening 71D.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 6, the movement conversion portion 72 includes a conversion groove 72A. The conversion groove 72A is configured to convert relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 into movement of the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1. The outer peripheral portion 71A of the movable member 71 is arranged in the conversion groove 72A. Figure 5

[0124] The conversion groove 72A extends in the circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotational axis Al. The conversion groove 72A is inclined with respect to a reference plane RP perpendicular to the rotational axis Al. The conversion groove 72A extends in a helical shape around the rotational axis Al. In the present embodiment, the movement conversion portion 72 includes an internal thread having one helical conversion groove 72A. For example, the conversion groove 72A constitutes an internal thread having a thread diameter of M55 and a pitch of 1.5 mm. However, the size of the internal thread is not limited to the above-described size. In addition, the conversion groove 72A can be intermittently provided in the circumferential direction D3.

[0125] In addition, the outer peripheral portion 71A of the movable member 71 includes an external thread. The external thread of the outer peripheral portion 71A is screwed into the internal thread constituted by the conversion groove 72A. In the present embodiment, the thickness of the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1 corresponds to 1.25 times the width of the conversion groove 72A in the axial direction D1. However, the thickness of the movable member 71 is not limited to the above-described size.

[0126] ​Furthermore, as described later, in a modified example where the movable conversion part 72 is disposed radially inside the movable member 71, for example, the second housing 20 or the movable member 71 includes internal threads, and the movable conversion part 72 includes external threads. In such a modified example, for example, the movable conversion part 72 is disposed on the sleeve 22, and the movable member 71 is configured to be able to rotate together with the first housing 10 and to be able to move relative to the first housing 10 along the axial direction D1.

[0127] The stop member 73 includes a stop surface 73A facing axial direction D1. The stop surface 73A extends in the circumferential direction D3 related to the rotation axis A1. The stop member 73 protrudes radially inward from the first housing 10. The stop member 73 protrudes radially inward from the cylindrical portion 15 of the first housing 10. In this embodiment, the stop member 73 and the stop surface 73A have annular shapes. However, the shapes of the stop member 73 and the stop surface 73A are not limited to annular.

[0128] The movable component 71 includes a first surface 71B facing axial direction D1 and a second surface 71C disposed on the back side of the first surface 71B along axial direction D1. The first surface 71B is arranged facing the stop surface 73A. The first surface 71B can contact the stop surface 73A. The second surface 71C is arranged facing the sleeve body 22A.

[0129] like Figure 3 As shown, the movement conversion unit 72 is configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in one of the first rotation direction D21 and the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 71 moves toward the stop member 73 in the first movement direction D41. The movement conversion unit 72 is also configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the other of the first rotation direction D21 and the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 71 moves in the second movement direction D42, which is opposite to the first movement direction D41. In other words, when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the other of the first rotation direction D21 and the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 71 moves toward the sleeve body 22A. The second rotation direction D22 is the opposite direction to the first rotation direction D21.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the movement conversion portion 72 is configured to move the movable member 71 in the first movement direction D41 toward the side of the stopper 73 when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotation direction D21. The movement conversion portion 72 is configured to move the movable member 71 in the second movement direction D42 when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotation direction D22. However, the movement conversion portion 72 can also be configured to move the movable member 71 in the second movement direction D42 when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotation direction D21. The movement conversion portion 72 can also be configured to move the movable member 71 in the first movement direction D41 when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotation direction D22.

[0131] As shown in Figure 2 , the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 have a neutral rotation position P10 corresponding to a neutral position of the steering wheel. A prescribed rotation angle of the stopper structure 70 is defined between a first relative rotation position P11 and a second relative rotation position P12. For example, in a state in which the movable member 71 is in contact with the stopper 73, the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are disposed at the first relative rotation position P11. The second housing 20 is able to rotate relative to the first housing 10 by a first rotation angle in the first rotation direction D21 from the neutral rotation position P10, and is able to rotate by a second rotation angle in the second rotation direction D22. The first rotation angle and the second rotation angle are substantially equal.

[0132] Specifically, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 5 , when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotation direction D21 from the neutral rotation position P10, the movable member 71 moves in the first movement direction D41 from the neutral position P20 toward the side of the stopper 73. When the movable member 71 comes into contact with the stopper 73, the movable member 71 stops at a first stop position P21, and the second housing 20 stops at the first relative rotation position P11. In the present embodiment, from the neutral position P20 to the first stop position P21 corresponds to 1.75 times the width of the conversion groove 72A in the axial direction D1. Therefore, the first rotation angle from the neutral rotation position P10 to the first relative rotation position P11 is 630 degrees (for example, refer to arrow AR1 of Figure 2 . That is, the movement conversion portion 72 is configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 into movement of the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1 in such a way that the movement distance of the movable member 71 relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the axial direction D1 is proportional to the relative rotation angle of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20.

[0133] On the other hand, when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 from the neutral rotational position P10 to the second rotational direction D22, the movable member 71 is moved from the neutral position P20 to the second moving direction D42. As a result, at least one of the plurality of reversal portions 60C of the cable 60 is fully stretched, the cable 60 is stretched between the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, as a result, the second housing 20 is stopped relative to the first housing 10 at the second relative rotational position P12. In the present embodiment, the second rotational angle from the neutral rotational position P10 to the second relative rotational position P12 is set to the same angle as the first rotational angle from the neutral rotational position P10 to the first relative rotational position P11 (for example, refer to the arrow AR2). Therefore, the movable member 71 is moved to the second moving direction D42 by a distance corresponding to 1.75 times the width in the axial direction D1 of the conversion groove 72A, but is stopped at the second stop position P22 without contacting the sleeve body 22A. Figure 2

[0134] However, the second relative rotational position P12 can also be defined by bringing the movable member 71 into contact with at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. For example, the second relative rotational position P12 can also be defined by bringing the movable member 71 into contact with the sleeve body 22A before the cable 60 is stretched between the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. For example, as shown in Figure 6 instead of providing the stop surface 73A of the stopper 73 to the first housing 10, or in addition to providing the stop surface 73A of the stopper 73 to the first housing 10, the stop surface 73B can also be provided to the sleeve 22 as the stopper 73. In addition, the prescribed rotational angle of the stopper structure 70 is 1260 degrees, but the prescribed rotational angle can also be other angles. The rotational angle from the neutral rotational position P10 to the second relative rotational position P12 can also be set to an angle different from the rotational angle from the neutral rotational position P10 to the first relative rotational position P11.

[0135] In addition, as Figure 7 ​As shown, the rotary connector device 1 may also have a force-applying member 80 that applies force to the movable member 71 along the axial direction D1. For example, the force-applying member 80 is disposed between the movable member 71 and the sleeve 22 along the axial direction D1. The force-applying member 80 applies force to the movable member 71 toward the stop member 73. In this modified example, the force-applying member 80 includes a helical spring. However, the force-applying member 80 is not limited to a helical spring. In the state where no force is applied to the movable member 71, the movable member 71 moves relative to the movement conversion part 72 by an amount equivalent to the gap generated between the external thread of the movable member 71 and the internal thread of the movement conversion part 72. As a result, the external thread of the movable member 71 contacts the internal thread of the movement conversion part 72, causing abnormal noise. However, by providing the force-applying member 80, the generation of such abnormal noise can be suppressed. In addition, the space between the sleeve body 22A and the movable member 71 disposed in the neutral position P20 can be expanded along the axial direction D1, taking into account the height of the force-applying member 80 when compressed.

[0136] like Figure 8 As shown, the rotary connector assembly 1 has an indicator 90. The indicator 90 is disposed on at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. The indicator 90 is configured to indicate, via the positional relationship between the movable member 71 on the axial direction D1 and the indicator 90, that the second housing 20 is disposed in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10 (see reference). Figure 2 With the movable part 71 positioned as indicated by the indicator 90, the second housing 20 is positioned in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10 (see reference). Figure 2 With the movable part 71 positioned as indicated by the indicator 90, the movable part 71 is positioned in the neutral position P20 (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0137] In this embodiment, an indicator 90 is provided on the second housing 20. The indicator 90 is configured to indicate that the second housing 20 is disposed in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10 by means of the positional relationship between the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 and the indicator 90. With the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 disposed in the position indicated by the indicator 90, the second housing 20 is disposed in the neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10.

[0138] An indicator 90 is disposed radially inside the movable conversion section 72. The indicator 90 is provided on the sleeve 22. The sleeve 22 includes an inner surface 22C facing radially inward. In this embodiment, the guide protrusion 75 includes the inner surface 22C. However, the inner surface 22C may also be provided on a portion other than the guide protrusion 75. Additionally, as... Figure 4As shown, the rotary connector device 1 has a plurality of indicators 90 (e.g., four indicators 90), with each guide protrusion 75 having an indicator 90. However, the total number of indicators 90 is not limited to the total number disclosed in this embodiment.

[0139] At least one of the movable member 71, the movement conversion part 72, and the indicator 90 is at least partially disposed within the central opening 11. In this embodiment, the movable member 71, the movement conversion part 72, and the indicator 90 are disposed within the central opening 11. However, at least one of the movable member 71, the movement conversion part 72, and the indicator 90 may also be at least partially disposed outside the central opening 11.

[0140] The indicator 90 includes at least one of a mark 91 and a reference surface 92 disposed on the sleeve 22. The indicator 90 is at least partially disposed on the inner surface 22C of the sleeve 22. The mark 91 of the indicator 90 is disposed on the inner surface 22C of the sleeve 22. The reference surface 92 of the indicator 90 includes a first reference surface 22D, which is disposed on the sleeve 22 and substantially perpendicular to the axial direction D1. The first reference surface 22D is disposed toward the axial direction D1. In this embodiment, the first reference surface 22D is disposed at the end of the axial protrusion 76 of the sleeve 22.

[0141] like Figure 9 As shown, the neutral rotational position P10 is different from the rotational position of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the restricted state where the stop member 73 restricts the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. In this embodiment, in the restricted state where the stop member 73 restricts the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, the movable member 71 is offset from the indicator 90 indicating the neutral rotational position P10 in the axial direction D1. More specifically, in the restricted state where the stop member 73 restricts the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, the movable member 71 is offset from the indicator 90 indicating the neutral rotational position P10 towards the stop member 73.

[0142] like Figure 10 As shown, the indicator 90's mark 91 includes a line 91A and a graphic 91B. The line 91A is disposed on the inner surface 22C of the sleeve 22 and extends circumferentially D3. The graphic 91B includes, for example, a triangle and is arranged adjacent to the line 91A.

[0143] like Figure 8 As shown, with the first surface 71B of the movable part 71 aligned with the line 91A of the indicator 90, the second housing 20 is positioned in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10 (see reference). Figure 2). The line 91A is depicted by a thick line so that the line 91A can be visually confirmed in a state where the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 coincides with the line 91A. In addition, the figure 91B is disposed at a position that can be visually confirmed from the central opening 11 (refer to Figure 3 ) in a state where the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 coincides with the line 91A.

[0144] In addition, in a state where the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 coincides with the reference surface 92 (for example, the first reference surface 22D) in the axial direction D1, the second housing 20 is disposed at the neutral rotation position P10 with respect to the first housing 10. The reference surface 92 (for example, the first reference surface 22D) is disposed at a position that can be visually confirmed from the central opening 11 in a state where the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 coincides with the reference surface 92 (for example, the first reference surface 22D) in the axial direction D1.

[0145] In addition, the indicator 90 is not limited to the mark 91 and the reference surface 92. The indicator 90 can also be only one of the mark 91 and the reference surface 92. In addition, the mark 91 can also include only one of the line 91A and the figure 91B. Furthermore, the mark can also be provided to the reference surface. In addition, the inner side surface 22C of the sleeve 22 can also be color-distinguished by a plurality of colors in the axial direction D1, and a position of a boundary of the plurality of regions in which color-distinguishing is performed can be set as a position indicated by the indicator 90. In this case, the plurality of regions in which color-distinguishing is performed is a mark of the indicator 90, and the boundary of the plurality of regions in which color-distinguishing is performed can be at least one of a line and a figure included in the mark.

[0146] Hereinafter, features of the rotary connector device 1 will be summarized.

[0147] (1) The rotary connector device 1 has the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the stopper structure 70. The first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are disposed so as to be able to rotate relative to each other about the rotation axis A1, and form a cable-accommodating space 50 disposed in a manner of surrounding the rotation axis A1. The stopper structure 70 is configured to limit relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 to a prescribed rotation angle. The stopper structure 70 includes the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73. The movable member 71 is rotatable with the second housing 20 relative to the first housing 10 about the rotation axis A1, and is movable relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in an axial direction D1 defined along the rotation axis A1. The movement conversion portion 72 is configured to convert relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 to movement of the movable member 71 relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the axial direction D1. The stopper 73 is disposed to at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, and is contactable with the movable member 71.

[0148] In the rotary connector device 1, when the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 relatively rotate, the movement conversion portion 72 moves the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1 with respect to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. When the movable member 71 moves in the axial direction D1, the movable member 71 comes into contact with the stopper 73, and the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 is restricted. Thus, the stabilization of the operation of the stopper structure 70 can be achieved, and the disconnection of the cable 60 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0149] (2) The movement conversion portion 72 is rotatable with the first housing 10 with respect to the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 about the rotation axis A1. Thus, the movement conversion portion 72 can move the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1 by the relative rotation of the movement conversion portion 72 and the movable member 71.

[0150] (3) The movement conversion portion 72 is provided at the radially outer side of the movable member 71. Thus, the space required for providing the movement conversion portion 72 can be easily secured.

[0151] (4) The first housing 10 includes a central opening 11 extending in the axial direction D1. At least one of the movable member 71, the movement conversion portion 72, and the stopper 73 is at least partially provided within the central opening 11. Thus, the central opening 11 can be effectively used as the space required for providing the stopper structure 70, and the enlargement of the rotary connector device 1 accompanying the provision of the stopper structure 70 can be suppressed.

[0152] (5) The first housing 10 includes an inner peripheral portion 12 at least partially defining the central opening 11. The movement conversion portion 72 is provided at the inner peripheral portion 12 of the first housing 10. Thus, the inner peripheral portion 12 of the first housing 10 can be effectively used as the portion in which the movement conversion portion 72 is disposed, and the enlargement of the rotary connector device 1 accompanying the provision of the stopper structure 70 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0153] (6) The movement conversion portion 72 includes a conversion groove 72A configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 into the movement of the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1. The movable member 71 includes an outer peripheral portion 71A disposed within the conversion groove 72A. Thus, the configuration of the movement conversion portion 72 can be simplified by using the conversion groove 72A.

[0154] (7) The conversion groove 72A extends in the circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotation axis A1. Thus, the configuration of the movement conversion portion 72 can be further simplified.

[0155] (8) The conversion groove 72A extends in a spiral shape about the rotation axis A1. Thus, the configuration of the movement conversion portion 72 can be further simplified.

[0156] (9) The first housing 10 includes a first housing main body 14 configured to have a ring shape and partially form the cable storage space 50, and a cylindrical portion 15 extending from the first housing main body 14 in the axial direction D1 and including the inner peripheral portion 12. The inner peripheral portion 12 is easily provided in the first housing 10 by the cylindrical portion 15.

[0157] (10) At least one of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 includes at least one guide opening 74. At least one of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 includes at least one guide protrusion 75 extending in the axial direction D1 and provided in the at least one guide opening 74. Thus, the configuration in which the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 are relatively movable in the axial direction D1 and integrally rotatable about the rotation axis A1 can be achieved with a simple configuration.

[0158] (11) The at least one guide opening 74 includes a plurality of guide openings 74 arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotation axis A1. The at least one guide protrusion 75 includes a plurality of guide protrusions 75 arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction D3 and respectively provided in the plurality of guide openings 74. With the plurality of guide openings 74 and the plurality of guide protrusions 75, the connection strength of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 in the rotation direction can be improved.

[0159] (12) The second housing 20 includes a second housing main body 21 configured to have a ring shape and partially form the cable storage space 50, and a sleeve 22 that is a separate member from the second housing main body 21 and is connected to the second housing main body 21. The movable member 71 is connected to the sleeve 22 so as to be movable in the axial direction D1. Thus, the sleeve 22 can be used as a portion that supports the movable member 71, and the connection configuration of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 can be simplified.

[0160] (13) The sleeve 22 includes a sleeve main body 22A and at least one guide protrusion 75 protruding from the sleeve main body 22A in the axial direction D1. The movable member 71 includes at least one guide opening 74. Thus, the connection configuration of the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 can be more reliably simplified.

[0161] (14) A prescribed rotation angle of the stopper configuration 70 is defined between a first relative rotation position P11 and a second relative rotation position P12. In a state in which the movable member 71 is in contact with the stopper 73, the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are arranged at the first relative rotation position P11. The relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be stopped at the first relative rotation position P11 by the movable member 71 and the stopper 73.

[0162] (15) The rotary connector device 1 further has a cable 60 disposed in the cable housing space 50. The first housing 10 includes an inner peripheral surface 10B that partially forms the cable housing space 50. The second housing 20 includes an outer peripheral surface 20B that is disposed radially inward of the inner peripheral surface 10B and that partially forms the cable housing space 50. The cable 60 includes a first winding portion 60A, a second winding portion 60B, and a reverse portion 60C. The first winding portion 60A is wound along the inner peripheral surface 10B of the first housing 10. The second winding portion 60B is wound along the outer peripheral surface 20B of the second housing 20. The reverse portion 60C is disposed between the first winding portion 60A and the second winding portion 60B and links the first winding portion 60A and the second winding portion 60B. A plurality of flat cables 61 each include the first winding portion 60A, the second winding portion 60B, and the reverse portion 60C. The cable 60 is disposed in the cable housing space 50 in such a manner that the length of the second winding portion 60B of the cable 60 wound around the outer peripheral surface 20B decreases when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in a first rotational direction D21. The cable 60 is disposed in the cable housing space 50 in such a manner that the length of the second winding portion 60B of the cable 60 wound around the outer peripheral surface 20B increases when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in a second rotational direction D22 opposite the first rotational direction D21. The movement conversion portion 72 is configured to move the movable member 71 in a first movement direction D41 toward the stopper 73 when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in one of the first rotational direction D21 and the second rotational direction D22. The movement conversion portion 72 is configured to move the movable member 71 in a second movement direction D42 opposite the first movement direction D41 when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the other of the first rotational direction D21 and the second rotational direction D22. Thus, when the second housing 20 is rotated relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotational direction D21 in which the cable 60 is slackened, the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be stopped at the first relative rotation position P11 by the movable member 71 and the stopper 73. Therefore, the cable 60 can be prevented from being excessively slackened.

[0163] (16) The stopper 73 includes a stopper surface 73A facing the axial direction D1. By stopping the movable member 71 with the stopper surface 73A, the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be stopped.

[0164] (17) The stopper surface 73A extends in the circumferential direction D3 with respect to the rotational axis A1. Thus, the stopper surface 73A can be ensured to be wider, and the strength of the stopper structure 70 can be easily ensured.

[0165] (18) The movement conversion unit 72 is configured such that the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 is converted into the movement of the movable member 71 in the axial direction D1 in a manner that the distance the movable member 71 moves relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the axial direction D1 is proportional to the relative rotation angle of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. As a result, each part can be easily designed based on the predetermined rotation angle set by the stop structure 70.

[0166] (19) such as Figure 7 As shown, when the rotary connector device 1 has a force-applying member 80 that applies force to the movable member 71 along the axial direction D1, the generation of abnormal noise can be suppressed by the force-applying member 80.

[0167] (20) The rotary connector device 1 includes a first housing 10, a second housing 20, a movable member 71, a movement conversion unit 72, and an indicator 90. The first housing 10 and the second housing 20 are configured to rotate relative to each other about a rotation axis A1, and form a cable storage space 50 arranged to surround the rotation axis A1. The movable member 71 is rotatable relative to the first housing 10 about the rotation axis A1 together with the second housing 20, and the movable member 71 is movable relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in an axial direction D1 defined along the rotation axis A1. The movement conversion unit 72 is configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 into movement of the movable member 71 relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the axial direction D1. The indicator 90 is provided on at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. The indicator 90 is configured to indicate that the second housing 20 is disposed in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10 by means of the positional relationship between the movable member 71 on the axial direction D1 and the indicator 90.

[0168] In the rotary connector device 1, by visually confirming the positional relationship between the movable part 71 and the indicator 90, it is possible to reliably determine whether the second housing 20 is configured in the neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10.

[0169] (21) With the movable part 71 positioned as indicated by the indicator 90, the second housing 20 is positioned at a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10. Thus, the neutral rotational position P10 of the rotary connector device 1 can be easily visually confirmed by the movable part 71 and the indicator 90.

[0170] In addition, it is preferable that the position of the movable part 71 is consistent with the position shown by the indicator 90 when the second housing 20 is disposed in the neutral rotation position P10. However, as long as the neutral rotation position P10 can be determined by the movable part 71 and the indicator 90, the position of the movable part 71 can also be shifted from the position shown by the indicator 90 in the state of the neutral rotation position P10.

[0171] (22) The movable member 71 includes a first surface 71B facing the axial direction Dl and a second surface 71C provided on the back side of the first surface 71B in the axial direction Dl. The indicator 90 is configured to show that the second housing 20 is disposed at the neutral rotational position P10 with respect to the first housing 10 by the positional relationship between the first surface of the movable member 71 and the indicator 90. Thus, by visually confirming the positional relationship between the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 and the indicator 90, it is possible to more reliably determine whether the second housing 20 is disposed at the neutral rotational position P10 with respect to the first housing 10.

[0172] In addition, instead of the first surface 71B, or in addition to the first surface 71B, the second surface 71C of the movable member 71 can be used for the determination of the neutral rotational position P10. In addition, other portions of the movable member 71 can be used for the determination of the neutral rotational position P10.

[0173] (23) In a state in which the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 is disposed at the position shown by the indicator 90, the second housing 20 is disposed at the neutral rotational position P10 with respect to the first housing 10. Thus, by the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 and the indicator 90, it is easier to visually confirm the neutral rotational position P10 of the rotational connector device 1.

[0174] In addition, it is preferable that the position of the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 coincide with the position shown by the indicator 90 in a state in which the second housing 20 is disposed at the neutral rotational position P10, but as long as the neutral rotational position P10 can be determined by the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 and the indicator 90, the position of the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 can also be offset from the position shown by the indicator 90 in the state of the neutral rotational position P10.

[0175] (24) The second housing 20 is rotatable by a first rotational angle in a first rotational direction D21 with respect to the first housing 10 from the neutral rotational position P10, and is rotatable by a second rotational angle in a second rotational direction D22 that is the opposite direction of the first rotational direction D21. The first rotational angle and the second rotational angle are substantially equal. Thus, it is possible to more reliably set the neutral rotational position P10 of the rotational connector device 1 at the center of the entire rotational angle of the second housing 20.

[0176] In addition, the first rotational angle can also be different from the second rotational angle. That is, the neutral rotational position P10 can also be offset from the center of the entire rotational angle of the second housing 20.

[0177] (25) The second housing 20 includes a second housing main body 21 and a sleeve 22. The second housing main body 21 is configured to have a ring shape, and partially forms the cable storage space 50. The sleeve 22 is a separate member from the second housing main body 21, and is coupled to the second housing main body 21. The movable member 71 is coupled to the sleeve 22 in a manner that is movable in the axial direction Dl. The indicator 90 is provided to the sleeve 22. Thus, the indicator 90 can be disposed at a position that is easy to visually confirm.

[0178] In addition, instead of or in addition to the indicator 90 being provided to the sleeve 22, the indicator 90 can be provided to a member other than the sleeve 22. In addition, the indicator 90 can be provided to only the first housing 10, or to both the first housing 10 and the second housing 20.

[0179] (26) The indicator 90 includes at least one of a mark 91 and a reference surface 92 provided to the sleeve 22. Thus, the structure of the indicator 90 can be simplified.

[0180] In addition, the indicator 90 can include only one of the mark 91 and the reference surface 92, and can include a structure other than the mark 91 and the reference surface 92.

[0181] (27) The sleeve 22 includes an inner side surface 22C facing the radial inner side. The indicator 90 is at least partially provided to the inner side surface 22C of the sleeve 22. Thus, the indicator 90 can be disposed at a position that is easier to visually confirm.

[0182] In addition, the indicator 90 can be provided to a portion other than the inner side surface 22C of the sleeve 22.

[0183] (28) The mark 91 of the indicator 90 is provided to the inner side surface 22C of the sleeve 22. Thus, the mark 91 can be disposed at a position that is easier to visually confirm.

[0184] In addition, the mark 91 can be provided to a portion other than the inner side surface 22C of the sleeve 22.

[0185] (29) The reference surface 92 of the indicator 90 includes a first reference surface 22D provided to the sleeve 22 and substantially perpendicular to the axial direction Dl. Thus, the reference surface 92 can be disposed at a position that is easier to visually confirm.

[0186] In addition, the reference surface 92 can be provided to a portion other than the inner side surface 22C of the sleeve 22.

[0187] (30) With the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 aligned with the reference surface 92 in the axial direction D1, the second housing 20 is positioned in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10. Therefore, the neutral rotational position P10 of the rotary connector device 1 can be more easily visually confirmed using the first surface 71B of the movable member 71 and the reference surface 92.

[0188] (31) The indicator 90 is disposed on the radial inner side of the motion conversion unit 72. Thus, the space on the radial inner side of the motion conversion unit 72 can be used as space for the indicator 90.

[0189] Alternatively, the indicator 90 may be located outside the space radially inside the movable conversion section 72.

[0190] (32) The first housing 10 includes a central opening 11 extending along the axial direction D1. At least one of the movable member 71, the motion conversion part 72, and the indicator 90 is at least partially disposed within the central opening 11. Therefore, the central opening 11 can be effectively utilized as the space required to assemble at least one of the movable member 71, the motion conversion part 72, and the indicator 90.

[0191] Additionally, at least one of the movable part 71, the movement conversion part 72, and the indicator 90 may also be provided at least partially on the outside of the central opening 11.

[0192] (33) The first housing 10 is a stator fixed to the vehicle body. The second housing 20 is a rotating body that can rotate about the rotation axis A1 relative to the stator 10. A stop member 73 is provided at least on the stator 10. Thus, when the movable part 71 contacts the stop member 73, the stator 10 can bear the load, thereby improving the strength of the stop structure 70.

[0193] Alternatively, the conversion unit 72 may replace the conversion slot 72A or be moved based on the conversion slot 72A, and may also include other structures.

[0194] like Figure 11 As shown, the rotary connector assembly 1 may also include a detection unit 100. The detection unit 100 is configured to detect when the second housing 20 is positioned at a first relative rotational position P11 relative to the first housing 10. The detection unit 100 is provided in at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. Figure 11 In the modified example shown, a detection unit 100 is provided on the first housing 10. The detection unit 100 detects when the movable member 71 is positioned at a first stop position P21 relative to the first housing 10. The detection unit 100 is provided on the stop surface 73A. The detection unit 100 is configured to generate an electrical signal when the second housing 20 is positioned at a first relative rotational position P11 relative to the first housing 10. Figure 11In the modification shown, for example, the detection section 100 includes a push button switch. As examples of the detection section 100, for example, a contact type sensor (push button switch, touch sensor) and a non-contact type sensor (magnetic sensor, optical sensor) can be listed. The detection section 100 is electrically connected to, for example, a transmission section that transmits an electric signal, a notification section that notifies a user of a detection result, a battery, and the like.

[0195] In addition, the detection section 100 can be provided to the sleeve 22 or the movable member 71, and another detection section can be provided to the sleeve 22 or the movable member 71 on the basis of the detection section 100. The detection section provided to the sleeve 22 is configured to detect, for example, a case in which the second housing 20 is disposed at the second relative rotation position P12 with respect to the first housing 10.

[0196] In the above-described embodiment, as shown in Figure 3 The movement conversion section 72 is rotatable with the first housing 10 with respect to the second housing 20 and the movable member 71 about the rotation axis Al. However, the rotation connector device 1 can have Figure 12 to 14 the configuration shown.

[0197] Specifically, as shown in Figure 12 The rotation connector device 201 of the modification has a stopper configuration 270. The stopper configuration 270 includes a movable member 271, a movement conversion section 272, and a stopper 273. The movable member 271 is rotatable with the second housing 20 with respect to the first housing 10 about the rotation axis Al. The movable member 271 is movable with respect to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in an axial direction D1 defined along the rotation axis Al. The movement conversion section 272 is configured to convert relative rotation of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 into movement of the movable member 271 with respect to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 in the axial direction D1. The stopper 273 is provided to at least one of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 and is contactable with the movable member 271. In the present modification, the stopper 273 is provided to the second housing 20. However, the stopper 273 can be provided to the first housing 10 or to both the first housing 10 and the second housing 20.

[0198] The movable conversion part 272 is rotatable relative to the first housing 10 about the rotation axis A1, together with the second housing 20. The second housing 20 of the rotary connector device 201 includes a sleeve 222. The sleeve 222 has a substantially the same structure as the sleeve 22 in the first embodiment. The length of the sleeve 222 defined in the axial direction D1 is longer than the length of the sleeve 22 defined in the axial direction D1. The movable conversion part 272 is disposed on the sleeve 222. The movable conversion part 272 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve 222. The movable conversion part 272 includes a conversion groove 272A extending spirally along the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve 222. More specifically, the movable conversion part 272 includes an external thread 272T extending spirally along the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve 222. The external thread 272T defines the conversion groove 272A.

[0199] The movable member 271 is movable along the axial direction D1 relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. The movable member 271 includes a movable body 271A and an internal thread 271T. The movable body 271A is connected to the first housing 10 in a manner capable of moving along the axial direction D1. For example, the stop structure 270 includes a guide 279. The guide 279 is fixed to the first housing 10 and extends from the first housing 10 along the axial direction D1. The movable body 271A is mounted on the guide 279 in a manner capable of moving relative to the guide 279 along the axial direction D1. The guide 279 restricts rotation of the movable body 271A relative to the first housing 10.

[0200] The internal thread 271T is fixed to the movable body 271A and can move along the axial direction D1 relative to the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 together with the movable body 271A. The internal thread 271T extends helically along the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve 222. The internal thread 271T engages with the external thread 272T of the movable conversion part 272. The internal thread 271T is movably disposed within the conversion groove 272A of the movable conversion part 272.

[0201] like Figure 13 As shown, the internal thread 271T includes a first end 271T1 and a second end 271T2. The internal thread 271T extends spirally along the outer circumferential surface of the sleeve 222 between the first end 271T1 and the second end 271T2. The first end 271T1 and the second end 271T2 are spaced apart and fixed to the movable body 271A.

[0202] like Figure 14 As shown, the movable body 271A includes a hole 271B. The guide 279 extends along the axial direction D1 through the hole 271B.

[0203] like Figure 15As shown, a stop 273 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the sleeve 222 of the second housing 20. The stop 273 is capable of contacting the internal thread 271T. The stop 273 is capable of contacting the first end 271T1 of the internal thread 271T.

[0204] The stop 273 includes a contact surface 273A. The contact surface 273A is capable of contacting a first end 271T1 of the internal thread 271T of the movable member 271. The contact surface 273A is circumferentially inclined relative to the sleeve 222. The contact surface 273A is bent when viewed radially from the sleeve 222. When the first end 271T1 of the internal thread 271T of the movable member 271 contacts the contact surface 273A of the stop 273, the rotation of the second housing 20 relative to the first housing 10 stops.

[0205] However, because the contact surface 273A is inclined, when the rotational force applied to the second housing 20 exceeds a predetermined level, the first end 271T1 of the internal thread 271T crosses the contact surface 273A. Therefore, after the first end 271T1 of the internal thread 271T contacts the contact surface 273A of the stop 273, when a rotational force exceeding a predetermined level is applied to the second housing 20, rotation of the second housing 20 in the second rotational direction D22 is permitted.

[0206] like Figure 12 As shown, the motion conversion unit 272 is configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in either the first rotation direction D21 or the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 271 moves toward the stop member 273 in the first movement direction D41. In this modified example, the motion conversion unit 272 is configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 271 moves toward the stop member 273 in the first movement direction D41. The motion conversion unit 272 is configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotation direction D21, the movable member 271 moves toward the second movement direction D42. However, the motion conversion unit 272 may also be configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 271 moves toward the second movement direction D42. The movable conversion unit 272 can also be configured such that when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotation direction D21, the movable member 271 moves in the first movement direction D41.

[0207] In this modified example, when the movable part 271 contacts the stop 273, the second housing 20 is in the second relative rotational position P12 (refer to...). Figure 16) stops. Specifically, when the first end portion 271T1 of the internal thread 271T of the movable member 271 contacts the contact surface 273A of the stopper 273, the second housing 20 stops at the second relative rotational position P12 (refer to Figure 2 ) stops. However, it is also possible to configure the stop structure 270 in such a manner that the second housing 20 stops at the first relative rotational position P11 (refer to Figure 16 ) stops with the movable member 271 in contact with the stopper 273.

[0208] As shown in Figure 16 , the stop structure 270 includes an idle region 275. The idle region 275 is defined between the second relative rotational position P12 and a third relative rotational position P13. The third relative rotational position P13 is a position of the second housing 20 after the second housing 20 is further rotated from the second relative rotational position P12 in the second rotational direction D22 relative to the first housing 10. In a state where the second housing 20 is disposed at the third relative rotational position P13, the flexure of the reverse portion 60C of the cable 60 disappears, and the reverse portion 60C is stretched between the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. Therefore, the rotation of the second housing 20 relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotational direction D22 stops at the third relative rotational position P13. In the idle region 275, the movable member 271 is not substantially guided by the movement conversion portion 272 in the first movement direction D41. Therefore, in the idle region 275, the rotation of the second housing 20 is not restricted by the stopper 273. On the other hand, in a state where the reverse portion 60C of the cable 60 is stretched (for example, in a state where the second housing 20 stops at the third relative rotational position P13), when the rotational force in the second rotational direction D22 imparted to the steering wheel exceeds a prescribed level, the cable 60 is broken. In this case, since it is possible to perform the operation of the steering wheel beyond the third relative rotational position P13, it is possible to ensure safety in the operation of the vehicle.

[0209] In the rotary connector device 201, in a case where the rotation of the second housing 20 reaches the second relative rotational position P12, the movable member 271 comes into contact with the stopper 273, and thus the driver feels that the rotation of the steering wheel becomes heavy. That is, the driver can recognize the terminal of the steering wheel by the stopper 273.

[0210] Generally, in a case where the steering wheel is in the neutral position, the rotary connector device 201 can be installed to the vehicle body in a state where the position of the movable member 271 is deviated from the neutral position P20 Figure 14 ) to the second stop position P22. In a case where the movable member 271 is deviated from the neutral position P20 to the second stop position P22, for example, the range of the rotation of the second housing 20 in the second rotational direction D22 becomes narrow.

[0211] However, in the rotary connector device 201, if a rotational force exceeding a predetermined level is applied to the second housing 20 after the movable member 271 contacts the stop member 273, rotation of the second housing 20 in the second rotation direction D22 is permitted. Therefore, even if the position of the movable member 271 shifts from the neutral position P20 when the steering wheel is in the neutral position, the narrowing of the steering wheel's rotation range can be suppressed.

[0212] Furthermore, the orientations of the external thread 272T and the internal thread 271T can also be opposite. When the orientations of the external thread 272T and the internal thread 271T are opposite, when the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the first rotation direction D21, the movable member 271 moves in the first movement direction D41. When the second housing 20 rotates relative to the first housing 10 in the second rotation direction D22, the movable member 271 moves in the second movement direction D42. When the movable member 271 contacts the stop member 273, for example, when the second housing 20 is in the first relative rotation position P11 (see reference...), Figure 16 Stop. Idle area 275 is defined from the first relative rotational position P11 in the first rotational direction D21.

[0213] Alternatively, the idle area 275 can be omitted from the stop structure 270. In this case, the contact surface 273A of the stop member 273 has a shape (e.g., a plane facing the circumference) that the internal thread 271T of the movable member 271 will not cross.

[0214] In addition, such as Figure 14 As shown, in this modified example, the external thread 272T of the movable conversion part 272 is integrally provided as a single component with at least a portion of the sleeve 222. The internal thread 271T is a separate component from the movable body 271A. The guide 279 is integrally provided as a single component with at least a portion of the first housing 10. However, the external thread 272T of the movable conversion part 272 may also be a separate component from the sleeve 222. The internal thread 271T may also be integrally provided as a single component with at least a portion of the movable body 271A. The guide 279 may also be a separate component from the first housing 10.

[0215] Alternatively, it can also be done in Figure 13 The guide 279 shown is equipped with the aforementioned indicator 90. In this case, the indicator 90 is configured to indicate, via the positional relationship between the movable member 271 on the axial direction D1 and the indicator 90, that the second housing 20 is disposed in a neutral rotational position P10 relative to the first housing 10 (see reference). Figure 16 ).

[0216] In addition, in the present application, "have" and its derivatives are used as non-limiting terms to indicate the presence of a constituent element, and the presence of other constituent elements not recited is not excluded. The same applies to "have", "include" and their derivatives.

[0217] In the present application, ordinal numbers such as "1st", "2nd", and the like are used as terms for identifying structures, and do not have other meanings (such as a specific order, etc.). For example, it does not imply that because there is a "1st element", there is a "2nd element", and it does not imply that because there is a "2nd element", there is a "1st element".

[0218] Furthermore, the expressions "parallel", "perpendicular", and "consistent" in the present disclosure should not be strictly interpreted, and they respectively include the meanings of "substantially parallel", "substantially perpendicular", and "substantially consistent". Furthermore, the expressions regarding other configurations are also not strictly interpreted.

[0219] Furthermore, the expression "at least one of A and B" in the present disclosure includes, for example, any one of (1) only A, (2) only B, and (3) both A and B. The expression "at least one of A, B, and C" includes, for example, any one of (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) B and C, (6) A and C, (7) A, B, and C all. In the present disclosure, the expression "at least one of A and B" is not interpreted as "at least one of A and at least one of B".

[0220] From the above disclosure, it is obvious that various modifications and corrections of the present application can be made. Therefore, the present application can also be implemented by methods different from the specific disclosure of the present application, without departing from the scope of the gist of the present application.

[0221] Label Explanation

[0222] 1、201: rotary connector device; 10: first housing, stator; 11: central opening; 12: inner peripheral portion; 14: first housing main body; 15: cylindrical portion; 16: first annular body; 16A: first annular plate; 17: second annular body; 17A: outer peripheral wall; 20: second housing, rotor; 21: second housing main body; 22: sleeve; 22A: sleeve main body; 22B: sleeve connecting portion; 22C: inner side surface; 22D: first reference surface; 23: second annular plate; 24: inner peripheral wall; 30: first electrical connector; 40: second electrical connector; 50: cable storage space; 60: electrical cable; 70: stop structure; 71, 271: movable member; 71A: outer peripheral portion; 71B: first surface; 71C: second surface; 72, 272: movement conversion portion; 72A: conversion groove; 73, 273: stopper; 73A: stop surface; 74: guide opening; 75: guide protrusion; 90: indicator; 91: mark; 91B: figure; 92: reference surface; A1: rotational axis; D1: axial direction; D21: first rotational direction; D22: second rotational direction; D3: circumferential direction; D41: first movement direction; D42: second movement direction; P10: neutral rotational position; P11: first relative rotational position; P12: second relative rotational position; P20: neutral position; P21: first stop position; P22: second stop position; RP: reference surface.

Claims

1. A rotary joint device, comprising: a first housing and a second housing disposed so as to be relatively rotatable about a rotation axis and forming a cable-accommodating space disposed so as to surround the rotation axis; and a stopper structure configured to limit relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing to a prescribed rotation angle, the stopper structure including: a movable member rotatable about the rotation axis with the second housing relative to the first housing and movable in an axial direction defined along the rotation axis relative to the first housing and the second housing; a movement conversion portion configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing into movement of the movable member in the axial direction relative to the first housing and the second housing; and a stopper provided to at least one of the first housing and the second housing and contactable with the movable member.

2. The rotary joint device according to claim 1, wherein the movement conversion portion is rotatable about the rotation axis with the first housing relative to the second housing and the movable member, and the movement conversion portion is disposed radially outward of the movable member.

3. The rotary joint device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first housing includes a central opening extending in the axial direction, at least one of the movable member, the movement conversion portion, and the stopper is disposed at least partially within the central opening, the first housing includes an inner peripheral portion at least partially defining the central opening, and the movement conversion portion is disposed to the inner peripheral portion of the first housing.

4. The rotary joint device according to claim 3, wherein the movement conversion portion includes a conversion groove configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing into the movement of the movable member in the axial direction, and the movable member includes an outer peripheral portion disposed within the conversion groove.

5. The rotary joint device according to claim 4, wherein the conversion groove extends in a circumferential direction relative to the rotation axis, or the conversion groove extends helically about the rotation axis.

6. The rotary joint device according to claim 3, wherein the first housing includes: a first housing main body configured to have a ring shape and to partially form the cable-accommodating space; and a cylindrical portion extending in the axial direction from the first housing main body and including the inner peripheral portion.

7. The rotary joint device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the second housing and the movable member includes at least one guide opening, and at least one of the second housing and the movable member includes at least one guide protrusion extending in the axial direction and disposed within the at least one guide opening.

8. The rotary joint device according to claim 7, wherein the at least one guide opening includes a plurality of guide openings disposed at intervals in a circumferential direction relative to the rotation axis. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The at least one guide protrusion includes a plurality of guide protrusions arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction and respectively provided in the plurality of guide openings.

9. The rotary connector device according to claim 7, wherein The second housing includes: a second housing main body configured to have a ring shape and partially form the cable accommodation space; and a sleeve that is a separate member from the second housing main body and is coupled to the second housing main body, The movable member is coupled to the sleeve so as to be movable in the axial direction.

10. The rotary connector device according to claim 9, wherein The sleeve includes a sleeve main body and the at least one guide protrusion protruding from the sleeve main body in the axial direction, The movable member includes the at least one guide opening.

11. The rotary connector device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The prescribed rotation angle of the stopper configuration is defined between a first relative rotation position and a second relative rotation position, In a state where the movable member is in contact with the stopper, the first housing and the second housing are arranged at the first relative rotation position.

12. The rotary connector device according to claim 11, wherein The rotary connector device further has an electric cable provided in the cable accommodation space, The first housing includes an inner peripheral surface that partially forms the cable accommodation space, The second housing includes an outer peripheral surface that is provided radially inward of the inner peripheral surface and partially forms the cable accommodation space, The electric cable includes: a first winding portion that is wound along the inner peripheral surface of the first housing; a second winding portion that is wound along the outer peripheral surface of the second housing; and an intermediate portion that is provided between the first winding portion and the second winding portion and couples the first winding portion and the second winding portion, The electric cable is provided in the cable accommodation space in such a manner that a length of the second winding portion of the electric cable wound around the outer peripheral surface decreases when the second housing is rotated relative to the first housing in a first rotation direction, The electric cable is provided in the cable accommodation space in such a manner that the length of the second winding portion of the electric cable wound around the outer peripheral surface increases when the second housing is rotated relative to the first housing in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, The movement conversion portion is configured to move the movable member in a first movement direction toward the side of the stopper when the second housing is rotated relative to the first housing in one of the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction, The movement conversion portion is configured to move the movable member in a second movement direction opposite to the first movement direction when the second housing is rotated relative to the first housing in the other of the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction.

13. The rotary connector device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The stopper includes a stopper surface facing the axial direction.

14. The rotary connector device according to claim 13, wherein The stop face extends in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis.

15. The rotary joint device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The movement conversion portion is configured to convert the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing to the movement of the movable member in the axial direction in a manner that the movement distance of the movable member in the axial direction with respect to the first housing and the second housing is proportional to the relative rotation angle of the first housing and the second housing.

16. The rotary joint device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The rotary joint device further has a force applying member that applies a force to the movable member in the axial direction.

17. The rotary joint device according to claim 1, wherein The movement conversion portion is rotatable with the second housing with respect to the first housing around the rotation axis.

18. The rotary joint device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The rotary joint device further has an indicator provided to at least one of the first housing and the second housing, The indicator is configured to show that the second housing is disposed at a neutral rotation position with respect to the first housing by the positional relationship of the movable member in the axial direction and the indicator.

19. The rotary joint device according to claim 18, wherein In a state where the movable member is disposed at the position shown by the indicator, the second housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the first housing.

20. The rotary joint device according to claim 18, wherein The movable member includes a first face toward the axial direction and a second face disposed on a back side of the first face in the axial direction, The indicator is configured to show that the second housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the first housing by the positional relationship of the first face of the movable member and the indicator, In a state where the first face of the movable member is disposed at the position shown by the indicator, the second housing is disposed at the neutral rotation position with respect to the first housing.

21. The rotary joint device according to claim 18, wherein The second housing is rotatable with respect to the first housing by a first rotation angle in a first rotation direction from the neutral rotation position, and is rotatable by a second rotation angle in a second rotation direction that is the opposite direction of the first rotation direction, The first rotation angle is equal to the second rotation angle.

22. The rotary joint device according to claim 18, wherein The second housing includes: a second housing main body configured to have a ring shape and to partially form the cable accommodation space; and a sleeve that is a separate member from the second housing main body and is coupled to the second housing main body, The movable member is coupled to the sleeve in a manner that is movable in the axial direction, The indicator is provided to the sleeve.

23. The rotary joint device according to claim 22, wherein The indicator includes at least one of a mark provided to the sleeve and a reference face.

24. The rotary connector apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the sleeve includes an inner side surface toward a radially inner side, the indicator is disposed at least partially on the inner side surface of the sleeve, the mark of the indicator is disposed on the inner side surface of the sleeve.

25. The rotary connector apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the reference surface of the indicator includes a first reference surface disposed on the sleeve and perpendicular to the axial direction.

26. The rotary connector apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the movable member includes a first surface toward the axial direction and a second surface disposed on a back side of the first surface in the axial direction, the second housing is disposed at the neutral rotational position relative to the first housing in a state where the first surface of the movable member coincides with the reference surface in the axial direction.

27. The rotary connector apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the indicator is disposed radially inward of the movement conversion portion.

28. The rotary connector apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the first housing includes a central opening extending in the axial direction, at least one of the movable member, the movement conversion portion, and the indicator is disposed at least partially within the central opening.

29. The rotary connector apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first housing is a stator configured to be fixed to a vehicle body, the second housing is a rotor capable of rotating relative to the stator about the rotational axis, the stopper is disposed at least on the stator.

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