Vehicle structure and method for manufacturing a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vehicle structure and a method for manufacturing the vehicle. The vehicle structure according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a vehicle body; a bumper reinforcement provided at the front or rear of the vehicle body; and a crash box, one end of the crash box being joined to an outer end of the vehicle body in a front-to-rear direction and the other end of the crash box being joined to the bumper reinforcement, wherein at least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle structure and a method for manufacturing a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] As disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2015-202686, a resin-coated steel sheet, the surface of which is coated with a resin layer and thus has rust prevention properties, is used in automobiles. Summary of the Invention

[0003] However, resin-coated steel sheets are more expensive than ordinary steel sheets, so parts in cars using resin-coated steel sheets need to be selected carefully.

[0004] Regarding automobile crash boxes, one end is connected to a bumper reinforcement, and the other end is connected to the vehicle body. Note that from the perspective of productivity and manufacturing costs, a method in which the crash box and bumper reinforcement are assembled and joined to the vehicle body, and then electro-painted together with the vehicle body is preferred. However, since the contact surfaces (assembly surfaces) cannot be electro-painted, there is a risk of corrosion.

[0005] Therefore, for example, a crash box and bumper reinforcement that have been separately electro-painted are assembled onto a pre-electro-painted automobile body. Alternatively, a separately electro-painted bumper reinforcement is assembled onto a crash box that has been electro-painted together with the vehicle body. This results in increased manufacturing costs.

[0006] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle structure capable of suppressing corrosion and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0007] A first exemplary aspect is a vehicle structure comprising:

[0008] body;

[0009] a bumper reinforcement provided at the front or rear of a vehicle body; and

[0010] A crash box, one end of which is joined to an outer end of the vehicle body in the front-rear direction, and the other end of which is joined to the bumper reinforcement, wherein

[0011] At least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box.

[0012] In a vehicle structure according to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed from a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box. The resin layer formed on the contact surface between the crash box and the vehicle body prevents corrosive substances from reaching the steel sheet, thereby suppressing corrosion. This reduces corrosion and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0013] Of the contact surfaces between the vehicle body and the crash box, only the crash box may be formed of the resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on the contact surface of the crash box with the vehicle body.

[0014] Furthermore, the crash box may include a main portion, one end of the main portion being joined to the bumper reinforcement, and a plate provided at the other end of the main portion and joined to the vehicle body; and only the plate of the crash box may be formed of a resin-coated steel plate.

[0015] Through the above configuration, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced.

[0016] The resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may also be formed on the surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to the contact surface contacting the vehicle body, and the thickness of the first resin layer formed on the contact surface may be greater than the thickness of the second resin layer formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0017] Furthermore, the resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may not be formed on the surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to the contact surface with the vehicle body.

[0018] Through the above configuration, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced.

[0019] At least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box may be formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box. Due to the resin layer formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, substances that cause corrosion rarely reach the steel sheet, thereby suppressing corrosion.

[0020] Another exemplary aspect is a vehicle structure comprising:

[0021] body;

[0022] a bumper reinforcement provided at the front or rear of a vehicle body; and

[0023] A crash box, one end of which is joined to an outer end of the vehicle body in the front-rear direction, and the other end of which is joined to the bumper reinforcement, wherein

[0024] At least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box.

[0025] In a vehicle structure according to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box is formed from a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box. The resin layer formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box prevents corrosive substances from reaching the steel sheet, thereby suppressing corrosion. This reduces corrosion and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0026] In the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, only the crash box may be formed of the resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on the contact surface with the bumper reinforcement.

[0027] Furthermore, the crash box may include a main portion, one end of the main portion being joined to the vehicle body, and a plate provided at the other end of the main portion and joined to the bumper reinforcement; and only the plate of the crash box may be formed of a resin-coated steel plate.

[0028] Through the above configuration, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced.

[0029] The resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may also be formed on the surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to the contact surface contacting the bumper reinforcement, and the thickness of the first resin layer formed on the contact surface may be greater than the thickness of the second resin layer formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0030] Furthermore, the resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet may not be formed on the surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to the contact surface that contacts the bumper reinforcement.

[0031] Through the above configuration, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced.

[0032] Another exemplary aspect is a method for manufacturing a vehicle that includes electrocoating a crash box with a vehicle body and a bumper reinforcement, one end of the crash box being joined to the bumper reinforcement, and another end of the crash box being joined to the vehicle body, wherein

[0033] At least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box.

[0034] In a vehicle manufacturing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed from a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box. The resin layer formed on the contact surface between the crash box and the vehicle body prevents corrosive substances from reaching the steel sheet, thereby suppressing corrosion. This reduces corrosion and manufacturing costs.

[0035] Of the contact surfaces between the vehicle body and the crash box, only the crash box can be formed of the resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet can be formed on the crash box's contact surface with the vehicle body.

[0036] Another exemplary aspect is a method for manufacturing a vehicle that includes electrocoating a crash box with a vehicle body and a bumper reinforcement, one end of the crash box being joined to the bumper reinforcement, and another end of the crash box being joined to the vehicle body, wherein

[0037] At least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box.

[0038] In a vehicle manufacturing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one of a bumper reinforcement and a crash box is formed from a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box. The resin layer formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box prevents corrosive substances from reaching the steel sheet, thereby suppressing corrosion. This reduces corrosion and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0039] Of the contact surfaces between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, only the crash box can be formed of the resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet can be formed on the contact surface of the crash box with the bumper reinforcement. This configuration further reduces manufacturing costs.

[0040] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a vehicle structure capable of suppressing corrosion and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0041] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings given below, which are given by way of illustration only and thus should not be considered as limiting the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a vehicle structure according to a first embodiment;

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a first embodiment;

[0044] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of region III is shown;

[0045] Figure 4 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the first embodiment;

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a second embodiment;

[0047] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of region VI is shown;

[0048] Figure 7 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the second embodiment;

[0049] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a third embodiment;

[0050] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of region IX is shown;

[0051] Figure 10 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the third embodiment;

[0052] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a fourth embodiment;

[0053] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of region XII is shown;

[0054] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a fifth embodiment;

[0055] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of region XIV shown in FIG; and

[0056] Figure 15 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Hereinafter, specific embodiments to which the present disclosure is applied will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not particularly limited to the following embodiments. In addition, the following description and drawings have been appropriately simplified to clarify the explanation.

[0058] (First embodiment)

[0059] <Vehicle Structure Configuration>

[0060] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The configuration of the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment includes a front side member 10 , a bumper reinforcement 20 , and a crash box 30 at the front portion of the vehicle.

[0062] Naturally, Figure 1 The right-handed xyz orthogonal coordinate system shown in the other figures is the same in all drawings and is shown only for the convenience of explaining the positional relationships between components. In the examples shown in the drawings, the positive x-axis direction indicates the forward direction of the vehicle; the y-axis direction indicates the width direction of the vehicle; and the positive z-axis direction indicates the vertically upward direction.

[0063] Each of the front side members 10 is, for example, a cylindrical steel plate member constituting a part of a vehicle body (ie, a part of a car body). Figure 1 As shown, a pair of front side members 10 extend in the front-rear direction (y-axis direction) on both sides of the front portion of the vehicle body. Each of the front side members 10 has, for example, a rectangular shape in yz cross section. Figure 2 The front side member 10 shown includes, but is not particularly limited to, a cylindrical main portion 11 and a plate 12. A flange portion is provided around the front open end portion of the main portion 11. The flange portion of the main portion 11 and the plate 12 are joined to each other, for example, by welding, etc., so as to close the front open end portion of the main portion 11.

[0064] The bumper reinforcement 20 is a reinforcement member incorporated in the front bumper and is, for example, a cylindrical steel plate member. Figure 1 As shown, the bumper reinforcement 20 extends over the entire width of the front portion of the vehicle body (in the y-axis direction). Figure 2 As shown, the bumper reinforcement 20 has, for example, a B-shape in the xz cross section, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0065] Each of the crash boxes 30 is, for example, a box-shaped or cylindrical steel plate member that absorbs the impact of the collision as the crash box 30 collapses itself during a collision. Figure 1 As shown, a pair of crash boxes 30 are joined to both end portions of the bumper reinforcement 20 in the vehicle width direction (y-axis direction) (ie, one crash box is joined to each end portion). Figure 2 As shown, the rear end portion of each of the crash boxes 30 is joined to the front end portion of a corresponding one of the front side members 10, which is part of the vehicle body. The front end portion of the crash box 30 is joined to the rear end portion of the bumper reinforcement 20. That is, one end portion of each of the crash boxes 30 is joined to a corresponding one of the outer end portions of the vehicle body in the front-rear direction, and the other end portion thereof is joined to the bumper reinforcement 20.

[0066] Notice, Figure 2 The illustrated crash box 30 includes, but is not particularly limited to, a cylindrical main portion 31 and plates 32 and 33. The rear open end of the main portion 31 and the plate 32 are joined to each other, for example, by welding, etc., to close the rear open end of the main portion 31. A flange portion is also provided around the front open end of the main portion 31. The flange portion of the main portion 31 and the plate 33 are joined to each other, for example, by welding, etc., to close the front open end of the main portion 31.

[0067] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, the front end portion of the crash box 30, i.e., the plate 33, and the rear end portion of the bumper reinforcement 20 are joined to each other by welding, etc. At the same time, the rear end portion of the crash box 30, i.e., the plate 32, and the front end portion of the front side member 10, i.e., the plate 12, are joined to each other by bolting, etc.

[0068] Note that in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the crash box 30, to which the bumper reinforcement 20 has been previously joined, is assembled and joined to the front side member 10, which is part of the vehicle body, through bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body to which the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30 have been joined, i.e., the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electrocoated. For example, after electrocoating, intermediate and final coatings may be applied to the vehicle structure.

[0069] Notice, Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Schematic partial cross-sectional view of region III shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the plate 32 of the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate. In the plate 32, the entire rear surface (surface on the x-axis negative side) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer (first resin layer) RL1, and the entire front surface (surface on the x-axis positive side) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer (second resin layer) RL2. That is, as shown in FIG. Figure 3As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the panel 32 of the crash box 30 that is in contact with the panel 12 of the front side member 10 .

[0070] When the crash box and the bumper reinforcement are assembled to the vehicle body as described above and then electro-painted together with the vehicle body, the contact surface between the crash box and the vehicle body cannot be electro-painted, and thus there is a risk of corrosion occurring.

[0071] In contrast, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the plate 32 of the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate, and a resin layer RL1 is formed on a contact surface of the plate 32 that contacts the plate 12 of the front side member 10 .

[0072] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, corrosion-causing substances such as water, oxygen, and chlorine hardly reach the steel sheet SS of the panel 32 and the panel 12 made of the steel sheet, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 30 and the front side member 10 (i.e., the vehicle body). As will be described later, when the resin layer RL1 contains a rust-proof pigment, corrosion can be further suppressed.

[0073] Therefore, by assembling the crash box 30 to the front side member 10 (ie, the vehicle body) and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0074] Note that the steel sheet SS is made of ordinary steel or steel containing one or more additive elements such as chromium, but is not particularly limited thereto. Furthermore, to enhance rust resistance, a plating film may be provided on the surface of the steel sheet SS. In other words, the steel sheet SS may be a plated steel sheet. Examples of the plating film include, but are not limited to, plating films containing any one of metal elements such as zinc, aluminum, cobalt, tin, and nickel, as well as alloy plating films containing at least one of these metal elements.

[0075] In addition, each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 is made of an organic resin, but is not particularly limited to an organic resin, such as a water-based coating composition or an organic solvent-based coating composition. Examples of the organic resin include polyurethane resin, polyester resin, epoxy resin, (meth) acrylic resin, polyolefin resin, modified resins thereof, and mixtures thereof.

[0076] The organic resin contains, for example, an anti-rust pigment and has anti-rust properties. The anti-rust pigment includes, but is not limited to, fine particles of at least one of silicate compounds, phosphate compounds, vanadate compounds, and metal oxides. The anti-rust pigment is, for example, nanoparticles with a volume average diameter of approximately 1 to 50 nanometers (nm), fine particles with a volume average diameter of approximately 0.5 to 10 μm, or a mixture thereof. The amount of anti-rust pigment added to each of resin layers RL1 and RL2 can be, for example, 1 to 40% by volume or 2 to 20% by volume.

[0077] Furthermore, the organic resin may contain, for example, a conductive pigment and thus be conductive. Conductive pigments include, but are not limited to, fine particles of at least one of metals, alloys, conductive carbon, iron phosphide, carbides, and semiconductor oxides. The volume average diameter of the fine particles is, for example, approximately 0.5 to 10 μm. The amount of conductive pigment added to each of resin layers RL1 and RL2 may be, for example, 1 to 40% by volume or 2 to 20% by volume.

[0078] The thickness of each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 is, for example, 0.5 to 10 μm. Since the thickness of each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 is 0.5 μm or greater, corrosion resistance can be achieved. Furthermore, since the thickness of each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 is 10 μm or less, damage or delamination of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 can be suppressed during press molding, for example. The thickness of each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 can be, for example, 1 to 5 μm.

[0079] The thicknesses of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 are, for example, substantially equal to each other. However, the thickness of the resin layer RL1 formed on the contact surface of the plate 32 of the crash box 30 that contacts the plate 12 of the front side member 10 may be greater than the thickness of the resin layer RL2 formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0080] Furthermore, the resin layer RL1 may be formed only on the contact surface of the plate 32 of the crash box 30 with the plate 12 of the front side member 10, and the resin layer RL2 may not be formed on the surface opposite the contact surface. This configuration further reduces manufacturing costs and suppresses corrosion on the contact surface between the plate 32 of the crash box 30 and the plate 12 of the front side member 10.

[0081] Furthermore, as long as the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 32 of the crash box 30 with the plate 12 of the front side member 10 , the resin layer RL1 does not necessarily have to be formed on the entire surface of the plate 32 including the aforementioned contact surface.

[0082] Note that in order to improve the adhesion of each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 to the steel sheet SS, its corrosion resistance, etc., a primer film may be provided between each of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 and the surface of the steel sheet SS. The number of layers and composition of the primer film are not limited to any specific number and any specific composition.

[0083] Furthermore, although no resin layer is formed on the end surface of the steel plate SS in the crash box for automobile (hereinafter also referred to as automobile crash box) according to this embodiment, a resin layer may be formed on the end surface of the steel plate SS.

[0084] As described above, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the plate 32 of the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate, and the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 32 with the plate 12 of the front side member 10. Therefore, by assembling the crash box 30 to the front side member 10 (i.e., the vehicle body) and then electro-coating them, corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between them can be suppressed, and manufacturing costs can be reduced. In other words, corrosion can be suppressed and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0085] <Modification Example>

[0086] The following will refer to Figure 4 A vehicle structure according to a modified example of this embodiment is described. Figure 4 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 4 corresponds to Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of .

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the modified example, the plate 12 of the front side member 10 , instead of the plate 32 of the crash box 30 , is formed of a resin-coated steel plate.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, in the plate 12 of the front side member 10, the entire front surface (surface on the positive side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL1, and the entire rear surface (surface on the negative side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL2. That is, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the panel 12 of the front side member 10 that contacts the panel 32 of the crash box 30 .

[0089] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances causing corrosion, such as water, oxygen, and chlorine, hardly reach the steel plate SS of the panel 12 and the panel 32 made of the steel plate, thereby being able to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 30 and the front side member 10 (i.e., the vehicle body).

[0090] Therefore, even in the vehicle structure according to the modified example, by assembling the crash box 30 to the front side member 10 (ie, the vehicle body) and then electro-painting them, corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween can be suppressed and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0091] Note that, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, it is sufficient if at least one of the front side member 10 and the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of this resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the front side member 10 and the crash box 30. That is, both the front side member 10 and the crash box 30 may be formed of a resin-coated steel sheet.

[0092] However, by forming only one of the front side member 10 and the crash box 30 from a resin-coated steel plate and forming the other of them from a normal steel plate not coated with resin, the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Figure 3 As shown, by forming only the plate 32 of the crash box 30 from a resin-coated steel plate, and forming the main portion 31 and the plate 33 from a normal steel plate not coated with resin, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced. Figure 4 As shown, by forming only the plate 12 of the front side member 10 from a resin-coated steel plate and forming the main portion 11 from a normal steel plate not coated with resin, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced.

[0093] (Second embodiment)

[0094] Next, we will refer to Figure 5 The configuration of the vehicle structure according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a second embodiment. Figure 5 corresponds to Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of .

[0095] like Figure 5 As shown, similar to the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment includes front side member(s) 10 , a bumper reinforcement 20 , and crash box(es) 30 .

[0096] Note that Figure 2 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment, the front end portion of the crash box 30, i.e., the plate 33, and the rear end portion of the bumper reinforcement 20 are joined to each other by welding, etc. In contrast, the rear end portion of the crash box 30, i.e., the plate 32, and the front end portion of the front side member 10, i.e., the plate 12, are joined to each other by bolting, etc.

[0097] That is, in the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment, the crash box 30 to which the bumper reinforcement 20 has been previously joined is assembled onto and joined to the front side member 10, which is a part of the vehicle body, by bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body to which the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30 have been joined, that is, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electro-painted.

[0098] In contrast, Figure 5 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the second embodiment, the front end portion of the crash box 30, that is, the plate 33, and the rear end portion of the bumper reinforcement 20 are joined to each other by bolting, etc. At the same time, the rear end portion of the crash box 30, that is, the plate 32, and the front end portion of the front side member 10, that is, the plate 12, are joined to each other by welding, etc.

[0099] That is, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the bumper reinforcement 20 is assembled and joined to the crash box 30, which has been previously joined to the front side member 10 (i.e., a part of the vehicle body), by bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body to which the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30 have been joined, i.e., the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electro-painted.

[0100] Notice, Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Schematic partial cross-sectional view of region VI shown. Figure 6 As shown, the plate 33 of the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate. In the plate 33, the entire front surface (surface on the positive side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL1, and the entire rear surface (surface on the negative side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL2. That is, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 33 of the crash box 30 that contacts the bumper reinforcement 20 .

[0101] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances causing corrosion such as water, oxygen and chlorine hardly reach the steel plate SS of the plate 33 and the bumper reinforcement 20 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 30 and the bumper reinforcement 20.

[0102] Therefore, by assembling the bumper reinforcement 20 to the crash box 30 and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0103] The thicknesses of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 are, for example, substantially equal to each other. However, the thickness of the resin layer RL1 formed on the contact surface of the plate 33 of the crash box 30 with the bumper reinforcement 20 may be greater than the thickness of the resin layer RL2 formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0104] Furthermore, the resin layer RL1 may be formed only on the contact surface of the plate 33 of the crash box 30 with the bumper reinforcement 20, and the resin layer RL2 may not be formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface. This configuration further reduces manufacturing costs and suppresses corrosion on the contact surface between the plate 33 of the crash box 30 and the bumper reinforcement 20.

[0105] Furthermore, as long as the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 33 of the crash box 30 with the bumper reinforcement 20 , the resin layer RL1 does not necessarily have to be formed on the entire surface of the plate 33 including the aforementioned contact surface.

[0106] As described above, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the plate 33 of the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate, and the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 33 with the bumper reinforcement 20. Therefore, by assembling the bumper reinforcement 20 to the crash box 30 and then electro-coating them, corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between them can be suppressed, and manufacturing costs can be reduced. In other words, corrosion can be suppressed and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0107] <Modification Example>

[0108] The following will refer to Figure 7 A vehicle structure according to a modified example of this embodiment is described. Figure 7 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the second embodiment. Figure 7 corresponds to Figure 6 Cross-sectional view of .

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the modified example, the bumper reinforcement 20 , instead of the plate 33 of the crash box 30 , is formed of a resin-coated steel plate.

[0110] like Figure 7 As shown, in the bumper reinforcement 20, the entire rear surface (surface on the x-axis negative side) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL1, and the entire front surface (surface on the x-axis positive side) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL2. Figure 7 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the bumper reinforcement 20 that contacts the plate 33 of the crash box 30 .

[0111] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances causing corrosion such as water, oxygen and chlorine hardly reach the steel plate SS of the bumper reinforcement 20 and the plate 33 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 30 and the bumper reinforcement 20.

[0112] Therefore, by assembling the bumper reinforcement 20 to the crash box 30 and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0113] Note that, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, it is sufficient if at least one of the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30. That is, both the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30 may be formed of a resin-coated steel sheet.

[0114] However, the manufacturing cost can be reduced by forming only the bumper reinforcement 20 or the crash box 30 from a resin-coated steel sheet and forming the other of them from a normal steel sheet not coated with resin. Figure 6 As shown, by forming only the plate 33 of the crash box 30 from a resin-coated steel plate and forming the main portion 31 and the plate 32 from ordinary steel plates not coated with resin, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced. Note that the main portion 31 and the plate 32 may also be collectively referred to as the main portion.

[0115] The remaining configuration is similar to that of the vehicle structure according to the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

[0116] Note that the first embodiment and the second embodiment can be combined with each other. That is, a resin layer of a resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on the contact surface between the front side member 10 and the crash box 30, and another resin layer of another resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement 20 and the crash box 30.

[0117] (Third embodiment)

[0118] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 The configuration of a vehicle structure according to a third embodiment will be described. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a third embodiment.

[0119] like Figure 8 As shown, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment includes a lower back panel 40 , a bumper reinforcement 50 , and crash box(es) 60 at the rear portion of the vehicle.

[0120] The lower back panel 40 is a steel plate member constituting the rear end face of the vehicle body, and extends across the entire width of the vehicle body (in the y-axis direction).

[0121] The bumper reinforcement 50 is a reinforcement member incorporated into the rear bumper and is, for example, a cylindrical steel plate member. Figure 8 As shown, similar to Figure 2 The bumper reinforcement 20 shown, the bumper reinforcement 50 has, for example, a B-shape in xz cross section, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0122] Similar to the crash box 30, the crash box 60 is a box-shaped or cylindrical steel plate member, for example, which absorbs the impact of the collision as the crash box 60 collapses itself during a collision. Although not shown in the figure, a pair of crash boxes 60 are joined to both end portions of the bumper reinforcement 50 in the vehicle width direction (y-axis direction). In addition, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown, the front end portion of each of the crash boxes 60 is joined to the lower back panel 40 as a part of the vehicle body. The rear end portion of the crash box 60 is joined to the front end portion of the bumper reinforcement 50. That is, one end portion of each of the crash boxes 60 is joined to a corresponding one of the outer end portions of the vehicle body in the front-rear direction, and the other end portion thereof is joined to the bumper reinforcement 50.

[0123] Notice, Figure 8 The crash box 60 shown includes, but is not particularly limited to, a cylindrical main portion 61 having a bottom and a plate 62. The front open end of the main portion 61 and the plate 62 are joined to each other, for example, by welding, so as to close the front open end of the main portion 61. An opening 62a is formed in the central portion of the plate 62. Note that the opening 62a is not essential. In addition, a portion of the plate 62 extending outward from the open end of the main portion 61 constitutes a flange portion of the crash box 60.

[0124] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown, the front end portion of the crash box 60, i.e., the plate 62, and the lower back panel 40 as a part of the vehicle body are joined to each other by bolts, etc. At the same time, the rear end portion of the crash box 60, i.e., the bottom portion of the main portion 61, and the front end portion of the bumper reinforcement 50 are joined to each other by welding, etc.

[0125] Note that in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the crash box 60, to which the bumper reinforcement 50 has been previously joined, is assembled and joined to the lower back panel 40, which is part of the vehicle body, through bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body to which the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 have been joined, i.e., the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electrocoated. For example, after electrocoating, intermediate and final paints may be applied to the vehicle structure.

[0126] Notice, Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Schematic partial cross-sectional view of region IX shown. Figure 9 As shown, the plate 62 of the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate. In the plate 62, the entire front surface (surface on the positive side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL1, and the entire rear surface (surface on the negative side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL2. That is, as shown in FIG. Figure 9 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 62 of the crash box 60 that is in contact with the lower back panel 40 .

[0127] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, corrosion-causing substances such as water, oxygen, and chlorine hardly reach the steel plate SS of the plate 62 and the lower back panel 40 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40 (i.e., the vehicle body). When the resin layer RL1 contains a rust-proof pigment, corrosion can be further suppressed.

[0128] Therefore, by assembling the crash box 60 to the lower back panel 40 (ie, the vehicle body) and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0129] Since the steel sheet SS and the resin layers RL1 and RL2 in this embodiment are similar to those in the first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0130] The thicknesses of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 are, for example, substantially equal to each other. However, the thickness of the resin layer RL1 formed on the contact surface of the plate 62 of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40 may be greater than the thickness of the resin layer RL2 formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0131] Furthermore, the resin layer RL1 may be formed only on the contact surface of the plate 62 of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40, and the resin layer RL2 may not be formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface. This configuration further reduces manufacturing costs and suppresses corrosion on the contact surface between the plate 62 of the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40.

[0132] Furthermore, as long as the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 62 of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40 , the resin layer RL1 does not necessarily have to be formed on the entire surface of the plate 62 including the aforementioned contact surface.

[0133] As described above, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the plate 62 of the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate, and the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the plate 62 with the lower back panel 40. Therefore, by assembling the crash box 60 to the lower back panel 40 (i.e., the vehicle body) and then electro-coating them, corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between them can be suppressed, and manufacturing costs can be reduced. In other words, corrosion can be suppressed and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0134] <Modification Example>

[0135] The following will refer to Figure 10 A vehicle structure according to a modified example of this embodiment is described. Figure 10 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the third embodiment. Figure 10 corresponds to Figure 9 Cross-sectional view of .

[0136] like Figure 10 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the modified example, the lower back panel 40 , instead of the plate 62 of the crash box 60 , is formed of a resin-coated steel plate.

[0137] like Figure 10 As shown, in the lower back panel 40, the entire rear surface (surface on the x-axis negative side) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL1, and the entire front surface (surface on the x-axis positive side) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL2. Figure 10 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the lower back panel 40 that contacts the plate 62 of the crash box 60 .

[0138] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances that cause corrosion, such as water, oxygen, and chlorine, hardly reach the steel plate SS of the lower back panel 40 and the plate 62 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40 (i.e., the vehicle body).

[0139] Therefore, by assembling the crash box 60 to the lower back panel 40 (ie, the vehicle body) and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0140] Note that, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, it is sufficient if at least one of the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60. That is, both the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60 may be formed of a resin-coated steel sheet.

[0141] However, by forming only one of the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60 from a resin-coated steel plate and forming the other of them from a normal steel plate not coated with resin, the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Figure 9 As shown, by forming only the plate 62 of the crash box 60 from a resin-coated steel plate and forming the main portion 61 from a normal steel plate not coated with resin, the manufacturing cost can be further reduced.

[0142] Note that this embodiment is combined with one or both of the first embodiment and the second embodiment.

[0143] (Fourth embodiment)

[0144] Next, we will refer to Figure 11 The configuration of a vehicle structure according to a fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a fourth embodiment. Figure 11 corresponds to Figure 8 Cross-sectional view of .

[0145] like Figure 11 As shown, similar to the vehicle structure according to the third embodiment, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment includes a lower back panel 40 , a bumper reinforcement 50 , and crash box(es) 60 .

[0146] Note that Figure 8 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the third embodiment, a crash box 60 includes a cylindrical main portion 61 having a bottom and a plate 62 .

[0147] In contrast, Figure 11 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the fourth embodiment, the crash box 60 is formed of a single steel plate. The crash box 60 is a cylindrical member having a bottom and includes a flange portion extending outward from a front open end.

[0148] like Figure 11 As shown, the flange portion of the front end portion of the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40 as a part of the vehicle body are joined to each other by bolting, etc. At the same time, the rear end portion, i.e., the bottom portion, of the crash box 60 and the front end portion of the bumper reinforcement 50 are joined to each other by welding, etc.

[0149] Note that in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the crash box 60, to which the bumper reinforcement 50 has been previously joined, is assembled onto and joined to the lower back panel 40, which is a part of the vehicle body, by bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body, to which the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 have been joined, that is, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electro-painted.

[0150] Notice, Figure 12 yes Figure 11Schematic partial cross-sectional view of region XII shown in FIG. Figure 12 As shown, the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate. In the crash box 60, the entire front surface (surface on the positive side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL1, and the entire rear surface (surface on the negative side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL2. That is, as shown in FIG. Figure 12 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 that contacts the lower back panel 40 .

[0151] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances causing corrosion such as water, oxygen, and chlorine hardly reach the steel plate SS of the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40.

[0152] Therefore, by assembling the crash box 60 to the lower back panel 40 (ie, the vehicle body) and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0153] The thicknesses of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 are, for example, substantially equal to each other. However, the thickness of the resin layer RL1 formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40 may be greater than the thickness of the resin layer RL2 formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0154] Furthermore, the resin layer RL1 may be formed only on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40, and the resin layer RL2 may not be formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface. This configuration further reduces manufacturing costs and suppresses corrosion on the contact surface between the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40 (i.e., the vehicle body).

[0155] Furthermore, as long as the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40 , the resin layer RL1 does not necessarily have to be formed on the entire surface of the crash box 60 including the aforementioned contact surface.

[0156] As described above, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the lower back panel 40. Therefore, by assembling the crash box 60 to the lower back panel 40 (i.e., the vehicle body) and then electro-coating them, corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between them can be suppressed, and manufacturing costs can be reduced. In other words, corrosion can be suppressed and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0157] Note that, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, it is sufficient if at least one of the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of this resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60. That is, both the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60 may be formed of a resin-coated steel sheet.

[0158] However, by forming only one of the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60 from a resin-coated steel plate and forming the other from a non-resin-coated ordinary steel plate, manufacturing costs can be reduced. In addition, only the flange portion of the crash box 60 can be formed from a resin-coated steel plate, and the remaining portion of the crash box 60 can be formed from a non-resin-coated ordinary steel plate.

[0159] The remaining configuration is similar to that of the vehicle structure according to the third embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

[0160] (Fifth embodiment)

[0161] Next, we will refer to Figure 13 The configuration of a vehicle structure according to a fifth embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a fifth embodiment. Figure 13 corresponds to Figure 11 Cross-sectional view of .

[0162] like Figure 13 As shown, similar to the vehicle structure according to the fourth embodiment, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment includes a lower back panel 40 , a bumper reinforcement 50 , and crash box(es) 60 .

[0163] Note that Figure 11 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the fourth embodiment, the flange portion of the front end portion of the crash box 60 and the lower back panel 40 as a part of the vehicle body are joined to each other by bolting, etc. At the same time, the rear end portion, i.e., the bottom portion, of the crash box 60 and the front end portion of the bumper reinforcement 50 are joined to each other by welding, etc.

[0164] That is, in the vehicle structure according to the fourth embodiment, the crash box 60 to which the bumper reinforcement 50 has been previously joined is assembled and joined to the lower back panel 40 as a part of the vehicle body by bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body to which the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 have been joined, that is, the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electro-painted.

[0165] In contrast, Figure 13As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the fifth embodiment, the front end portion of the crash box 60, i.e., the flange portion, and the lower back panel 40 as a part of the vehicle body are joined to each other by welding, etc. At the same time, the rear end portion, i.e., the bottom portion, of the crash box 60 and the front end portion of the bumper reinforcement 50 are joined to each other by bolting, etc.

[0166] That is, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the bumper reinforcement 50 is assembled to and connected to the crash box 60, which has been previously joined to the lower back panel 40 (i.e., the vehicle body), by bolting using bolts BL and nuts NT, etc. Thereafter, the vehicle body to which the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 have been joined, i.e., the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, is electro-painted.

[0167] Notice, Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Schematic partial cross-sectional view of region XIV shown in FIG. Figure 14 As shown, the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate. In the crash box 60, the entire rear surface (surface on the x-axis negative side) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL1, and the entire front surface (surface on the x-axis positive side) of the steel plate SS is coated with a resin layer RL2. That is, as shown in FIG. Figure 14 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 that contacts the bumper reinforcement 50 .

[0168] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances causing corrosion such as water, oxygen and chlorine hardly reach the steel plate SS of the crash box 60 and the bumper reinforcement 50 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 60 and the bumper reinforcement 50.

[0169] Therefore, by assembling the bumper reinforcement 50 to the crash box 60 and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0170] The thicknesses of the resin layers RL1 and RL2 are, for example, substantially equal to each other. However, the thickness of the resin layer RL1 formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the bumper reinforcement 50 may be greater than the thickness of the resin layer RL2 formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface.

[0171] Furthermore, the resin layer RL1 may be formed only on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the bumper reinforcement 50, and the resin layer RL2 may not be formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface. This configuration further reduces manufacturing costs and suppresses corrosion on the contact surface between the crash box 60 and the bumper reinforcement 50.

[0172] Furthermore, as long as the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the bumper reinforcement 50 , the resin layer RL1 does not necessarily have to be formed on the entire surface of the crash box 60 including the aforementioned contact surface.

[0173] As described above, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the crash box 60 with the bumper reinforcement 50. Therefore, by assembling the bumper reinforcement 50 to the crash box 60 and then electro-coating them, corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between them can be suppressed, and manufacturing costs can be reduced. In other words, corrosion can be suppressed and manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0174] <Modification Example>

[0175] The following will refer to Figure 15 A vehicle structure according to a modified example of this embodiment is described. Figure 15 is a schematic partial sectional view of a vehicle structure according to a modified example of the fifth embodiment. Figure 15 corresponds to Figure 14 Cross-sectional view of .

[0176] like Figure 15 As shown, in the vehicle structure according to the modified example, the bumper reinforcement 50 is formed of a resin-coated steel plate instead of the crash box 60 .

[0177] like Figure 15 As shown, in the bumper reinforcement 50, the entire front surface (surface on the positive side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL1, and the entire rear surface (surface on the negative side of the x-axis) of the steel plate SS is coated with the resin layer RL2. Figure 15 As shown, the resin layer RL1 is formed on the contact surface of the bumper reinforcement 50 that contacts the crash box 60 .

[0178] Therefore, due to the resin layer RL1, substances that cause corrosion, such as water, oxygen, and chlorine, hardly reach the steel plate SS of the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 made of the steel plate, thereby suppressing corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) between the crash box 60 and the bumper reinforcement 50.

[0179] Therefore, by assembling the bumper reinforcement 50 to the crash box 60 and then electro-painting them, it is possible to suppress corrosion on the contact surface (assembly surface) therebetween and reduce manufacturing costs.

[0180] Note that, in the vehicle structure according to this embodiment, it is sufficient if at least one of the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of this resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60. That is, both the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 may be formed of a resin-coated steel sheet.

[0181] However, by forming only one of the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60 from a resin-coated steel sheet and forming the other from a normal steel sheet not coated with resin, manufacturing costs can be reduced. In addition, only the bottom of the crash box 60 can be formed from a resin-coated steel sheet, and the rest of the crash box 60 can be formed from a normal steel sheet not coated with resin.

[0182] The remaining configuration is similar to that of the vehicle structure according to the fourth embodiment, and therefore description thereof is omitted.

[0183] Note that the fourth embodiment and the fifth embodiment may be combined with each other. That is, a resin layer of a resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on the contact surface between the lower back panel 40 and the crash box 60, and another resin layer of another resin-coated steel sheet may be formed on the contact surface between the bumper reinforcement 50 and the crash box 60.

[0184] From the disclosure thus described, it is obvious that the embodiments of the disclosure may be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, and all such modifications obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle structure comprising: a vehicle body including a first steel plate as an outer end portion in a front-rear direction; a bumper reinforcement provided at the front or rear portion of the vehicle body, the bumper reinforcement being a cylindrical steel plate member; as well as A crash box, one end of which is joined to the outer end of the vehicle body in the front-rear direction, and the other end of which is joined to the bumper reinforcement, wherein the crash box is a box-shaped or cylindrical steel plate member, the crash box including a main portion and a second steel plate, wherein one end of the main portion is joined to the bumper reinforcement, and the second steel plate is provided at the other end of the main portion and joined to the first steel plate of the vehicle body, wherein At least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box, wherein, in a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box, only the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface of the crash box that contacts the vehicle body, The resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is also formed on a surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to a contact surface thereof that contacts the vehicle body, and the thickness of the first resin layer formed on the contact surface is greater than the thickness of the second resin layer formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface, Wherein, each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is made of an organic resin containing an anti-rust pigment and having an anti-rust property, wherein the amount of the anti-rust pigment added to each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is 1 to 40 volume %.

2. The vehicle structure according to claim 1, wherein: Only the second steel plate of the crash box is formed of the resin-coated steel plate.

3. The vehicle structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box.

4. A vehicle structure comprising: a vehicle body including a first steel plate as an outer end portion in a front-rear direction; a bumper reinforcement provided at the front or rear portion of the vehicle body, the bumper reinforcement being a cylindrical steel plate member; as well as A crash box, one end of which is joined to the outer end of the vehicle body in the front-rear direction, and the other end of which is joined to the bumper reinforcement, wherein the crash box is a box-shaped or cylindrical steel plate member, the crash box including a main portion and a second steel plate, wherein one end of the main portion is joined to the bumper reinforcement, and the second steel plate is provided at the other end of the main portion and joined to the first steel plate of the vehicle body, wherein At least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, wherein, in a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, only the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface with the bumper reinforcement, The resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is also formed on a surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to a contact surface thereof that contacts the bumper reinforcement, and the thickness of the first resin layer formed on the contact surface is greater than the thickness of the second resin layer formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface, Wherein, each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is made of an organic resin containing an anti-rust pigment and having an anti-rust property, wherein the amount of the anti-rust pigment added to each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is 1 to 40 volume %.

5. The vehicle structure according to claim 4, wherein: The crash box includes a third steel plate, wherein the third steel plate is located at the one end portion of the main portion and is joined to the bumper reinforcement, and Only the third steel plate of the crash box is formed of the resin-coated steel plate.

6. A method for manufacturing a vehicle, the method comprising electrocoating a crash box together with a vehicle body and a bumper reinforcement, one end of the crash box being joined to the bumper reinforcement and the other end of the crash box being joined to the vehicle body, wherein The vehicle body includes a first steel plate as an outer end portion in a front-rear direction, the bumper reinforcement is provided at the front or rear portion of the vehicle body, the bumper reinforcement is a cylindrical steel plate member, wherein the crash box is a box-shaped or cylindrical steel plate member, the crash box includes a main portion and a second steel plate, wherein one end portion of the main portion is joined to the bumper reinforcement, and the second steel plate is provided at the other end portion of the main portion and joined to the first steel plate of the vehicle body, wherein At least one of the vehicle body and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box, wherein, in a contact surface between the vehicle body and the crash box, only the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface of the crash box that contacts the vehicle body, The resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is also formed on a surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to a contact surface thereof that contacts the vehicle body, and the thickness of the first resin layer formed on the contact surface is greater than the thickness of the second resin layer formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface, Wherein, each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is made of an organic resin containing an anti-rust pigment and having an anti-rust property, wherein the amount of the anti-rust pigment added to each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is 1 to 40 volume %.

7. A method for manufacturing a vehicle, the method comprising electro-coating a crash box together with a vehicle body and a bumper reinforcement, one end of the crash box being joined to the bumper reinforcement and the other end of the crash box being joined to the vehicle body, the vehicle body including a first steel plate as an outer end in a front-rear direction, the bumper reinforcement being provided at the front or rear of the vehicle body, the bumper reinforcement being a cylindrical steel plate member, the crash box including a main portion and a second steel plate, wherein One end portion of the main portion is joined to the bumper reinforcement, and the second steel plate is provided at the other end portion of the main portion and joined to the first steel plate of the vehicle body, wherein At least one of the bumper reinforcement and the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, wherein, in a contact surface between the bumper reinforcement and the crash box, only the crash box is formed of a resin-coated steel sheet, and a resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is formed on the contact surface of the crash box that contacts the bumper reinforcement, The resin layer of the resin-coated steel sheet is also formed on a surface of the resin-coated steel sheet opposite to a contact surface thereof that contacts the bumper reinforcement, and the thickness of the first resin layer formed on the contact surface is greater than the thickness of the second resin layer formed on the surface opposite to the contact surface, Wherein, each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is made of an organic resin containing an anti-rust pigment and having an anti-rust property, wherein the amount of the anti-rust pigment added to each of the first resin layer and the second resin layer is 1 to 40 volume %.

Images