Steering device

Abstract

A steering device includes: an input shaft coupled to a steering wheel and extending in an axial direction; an output shaft fitted to the input shaft and capable of moving in the axial direction relative to the input shaft; an upper column configured to support the input shaft so as to be rotatable, the upper column being cylindrical and disposed radially outward of the input shaft; a lower column fitted to the upper column and capable of moving in the axial direction relative to the upper column; a column support having a side plate portion located laterally of the upper column and capable of being detached from a vehicle body; a support member provided to the upper column; and a pin extending in a radial direction and provided to pass through the side plate portion and the support member. The support member includes: a through hole through which the pin passes; an elongated hole extending from the through hole toward the steering wheel; and a stopper located between the through hole and the elongated hole and supporting the pin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to steering mechanisms. Background Technology

[0002] The steering system includes: a steering shaft connected to the steering wheel and extending axially; and a steering column supported on the outer periphery of the steering shaft. Patent Document 1 discloses a tilt steering system for changing the height of the steering wheel according to the driver's body shape, driving posture, etc.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-272446 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, when a vehicle collision occurs and the driver touches the steering wheel, resulting in a secondary impact, the column support that supports the steering column moves forward of the vehicle body. Therefore, space needs to be cleared in front of the column support beforehand. Consequently, it is difficult to place components in the space in front of the column support.

[0008] This disclosure was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a steering device that can further reduce the amount of movement of the column support during a secondary collision.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, a steering device according to the present disclosure comprises: a steering shaft connected to a steering wheel and extending axially; an upper column, which is cylindrical and disposed radially outside the steering shaft; a lower column, which is cylindrical and fitted with the upper column and capable of axially moving relative to the upper column; a column bracket having a side plate portion located on the side of the upper column and capable of detaching from the vehicle body in the event of a collision; a support member disposed on the upper column; and a pin extending along the vehicle width direction and disposed through the side plate portion and the support member, the support member comprising: a through hole through which the pin passes; an elongated hole extending from the through hole toward the steering wheel; and a stop member located between the through hole and the elongated hole, wherein in the event of a collision, the pin contacts the stop member and deforms the stop member, thereby allowing the pin to move from the through hole to the elongated hole.

[0011] In a secondary collision, if the driver touches the steering wheel, a force is transmitted forward to the upper pillar via the input axis of the steering shaft. Since a support member is provided in the upper pillar, the support member moves forward relative to the pin. Specifically, as the support member moves forward, the stop is damaged by the pin, and the pin moves relative to the pin within the elongated hole of the support member. Then, when the pin touches the end of the edge of the elongated hole, the pin pushes forward against the side plate, thus disengaging the pillar bracket relative to the vehicle body. Afterward, the upper pillar and the pillar bracket move forward. Thus, according to this disclosure, in a secondary collision, while maintaining the energy absorption capacity generated by the relative movement of the upper and lower pillars, the forward movement of the pillar bracket is reduced by decreasing the distance the pin moves within the elongated hole of the support member. Consequently, the space on the front side of the pillar bracket becomes larger after a secondary collision, allowing for the placement of more or larger components in the space on the front side of the pillar bracket.

[0012] As a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned steering device, the upper column includes an elongated cylindrical hole extending along the axial direction, and the support member is disposed within the elongated cylindrical hole. Thus, if the support member is mounted on the column bracket, it becomes a non-telescopic specification; conversely, the support member can be detached from the column bracket to form a telescopic specification. Therefore, both the telescopic and non-telescopic specifications can be applied to the same column bracket, enabling component reuse.

[0013] As a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned steering device, the support member is mounted on the upper column in a manner that allows it to be detached from the upper column. Thus, by detaching the support member from the upper column, it is possible to easily switch between a telescopic configuration and a configuration without telescopic functionality.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned steering device, the stop is a protrusion. By appropriately changing the height of the protrusion, the load on the pin as it passes over the protrusion and enters the elongated hole can be easily adjusted.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the aforementioned steering device, the side plate includes an inclined elongated hole extending in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the elongated hole, and the pin passes through the inclined elongated hole. This allows the steering wheel height to be adjusted according to the driver's body shape, driving posture, etc.

[0016] The effects of the invention

[0017] According to the steering device disclosed herein, in the event of a secondary collision, the forward movement of the column support is reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the steering device in the embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 yes Figure 1An exploded perspective view of the steering mechanism.

[0020] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial side view of the steering device.

[0021] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view at line IV-IV.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the support member in the implementation method.

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Side view.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a side view of the steering device in the embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a side view of the support member in the embodiment, and a diagram schematically showing the position of the pin before and after the secondary collision.

[0026] Figure 9 This is a side view of the steering device according to the embodiment, and is a diagram showing the state after a secondary collision.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a side view of the steering device in the comparative example, and it is a diagram showing the state after a secondary collision.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a side view of the support member of the comparative example, and a diagram schematically showing the position of the pin before and after the secondary collision.

[0029] Figure 12 It is a diagram schematically illustrating the relationship between the collision load and stroke experienced by the steering mechanism in a secondary collision.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the support member of the first modified example.

[0031] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Side view.

[0032] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the support member in the second variation.

[0033] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Side view.

[0034] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the support member in the third variation.

[0035] Figure 18 yes Figure 17Side view.

[0036] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the support member in the fourth variation.

[0037] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Side view.

[0038] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the support member in the fifth variation.

[0039] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 Side view. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Furthermore, the constituent elements of the embodiments described below include elements readily conceived by those skilled in the art, substantially the same elements, and elements of equivalent scope. Moreover, the constituent elements disclosed in the embodiments described below can be appropriately combined. In the following description, the direction along the rotation axis Ax of the steering shaft 3 is referred to as the axial direction, and the direction intersecting the rotation axis Ax (e.g., the direction orthogonal to the rotation axis Ax) is referred to as the radial direction. Furthermore, the front of the vehicle body is designated FR, the rear of the vehicle body as RR, the right side of the vehicle body as RH, and the left side of the vehicle body as LH.

[0041] [Implementation Method]

[0042] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the steering device in the embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the steering mechanism. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial side view of the steering device. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view at line IV-IV.

[0043] First, the basic structure of steering device 1 will be explained. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the steering device 1 includes a steering wheel 2, a steering shaft 3, a steering column 4, a gearbox 5, a tilt bracket 6, and a tilting mechanism 7. Furthermore, the tilt bracket 6 is an example of a column bracket.

[0044] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the steering wheel 2 is connected to the rear end of the steering shaft 3. Moreover, when the driver operates the steering wheel 2, the steering shaft 3 rotates around the rotation axis Ax, and an operating torque is applied to the steering shaft 3.

[0045] A gearbox 5 is provided at the front end of the steering shaft 3. An ECU 51 and an electric motor 52 are assembled in the gearbox 5. The ECU 51 controls the operation of the electric motor 52. Assist torque is applied to the steering shaft 3 through the ECU 51 and the electric motor 52. In other words, the steering device 1 of this embodiment is an electric power steering device that uses the electric motor 52 to assist the driver's operation.

[0046] The steering shaft 3 comprises an upper shaft 31 and a lower shaft 32. Both the upper shaft 31 and the lower shaft 32 are cylindrical shafts. The upper shaft (input shaft) 31 and... Figure 4 The lower shaft (output shaft) 32 shown extends axially and is cylindrical along the direction about the rotation axis Ax. The steering wheel 2 is connected to the rear end of the upper shaft 31. The front end of the upper shaft 31 is fitted into the lower shaft 32. Specifically, the front end of the upper shaft 31 and the rear end of the lower shaft 32 are splined together. Thus, the upper shaft 31 can slide axially relative to the lower shaft 32. In other words, the steering shaft 3 can extend and retract. The upper shaft 31 is also referred to as the input shaft, and the lower shaft 32 as the output shaft.

[0047] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the steering column 4 is an outer cylinder extending axially and disposed on the outer periphery of the steering shaft 3. The steering column 4 has an upper column 41 and a lower column 42. The upper column 41 supports the upper shaft (input shaft) 31 so that it can rotate. The upper column 41 is disposed near the steering wheel 2 (i.e., the rear side of the vehicle body). The lower column 42 is disposed opposite to the upper column 41 on the opposite side of the steering wheel 2 (i.e., the front side of the vehicle body). The lower column 42 supports the lower shaft (output shaft) 32 so that it can rotate. The upper column 41 and the lower column 42 are cylindrical and can move relative to each other axially.

[0048] An inclined bracket (column bracket) 6 is provided on the outer periphery of the steering column 4. The inclined bracket 6 has a top plate portion 61, a pair of side plate portions 62 and 63, and a longitudinal plate 64.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the top plate portion 61 extends in the left-right direction. A notch 611 is provided at the right end of the top plate portion 61. The notch 611 extends relatively long in a direction parallel to the axial direction (i.e., the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body). The notch 611 has an open end at its rear end. A release member 613 is provided at the right end of the top plate portion 61. In other words, the release member 613 clamps the right end of the top plate portion 61 from above and below, covering the notch 611. The release member 613 is a plate-shaped member formed by bending two sheet metals at the rear end 613a. The release member 613 has a circular through hole 615. When the release member 613 is engaged with the right end of the top plate portion 61, the through hole 615 overlaps with the notch 611. Therefore, it is fixed to the... (The text abruptly ends here, likely due to an incomplete translation or source material.) Figure 7The retaining pin (not shown) of the body 100 shown retains the detachment member 613 in a state where it passes through the through hole 615 and the notch 611. Furthermore, the side plate portion 62 extends downward from the lower surface of the top plate portion 61. The side plate portion 62 is located to the left of the notch 611. An inclined elongated hole 621 is provided in the side plate portion 62. The inclined elongated hole 621 is an elongated hole extending in the vertical direction. Additionally, the longitudinal plate 64 extends downward from the front end of the top plate portion 61.

[0050] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a notch 612 is provided at the left end of the top plate portion 61. The notch 612 extends relatively long in a direction parallel to the axial direction (i.e., the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body). The notch 612 has an open end at its rear end. A release member 614 is provided at the left end of the top plate portion 61. In other words, the release member 614 clamps the left end of the top plate portion 61 from above and below, covering the notch 612. The release member 614 is a plate-shaped member formed by bending two plates at the rear end 614a. The release member 614 has a circular through hole 616. When the release member 614 is engaged with the left end of the top plate portion 61, the through hole 616 overlaps with the notch 612. Therefore, it is fixed to the part described later. Figure 7 The retaining pin (not shown) of the vehicle body 100 is held in place by the detachment member 614, which passes through the through hole 616 and the notch 612. Furthermore, the side plate portion 63 extends downward from the lower surface of the top plate portion 61. The side plate portion 63 is located to the right of the notch 612. An inclined elongated hole 631 is provided in the side plate portion 63. The inclined elongated hole 631 is an elongated hole extending in the vertical direction. In summary, the steering device 1 is fixed to the vehicle body 100 by means of the detachment members 613 and 614, the top plate portion 61, and the retaining pin (not shown). Thus, the tilting bracket (pillar bracket) 6 has side plate portions 62 and 63 located on the side of the upper pillar 41.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the steering device 1 includes a tilting mechanism 7. The tilting mechanism 7 includes an operating lever 70, a tilting bolt (pin) 71, a support member 8, a cam 74, and a leg 410.

[0052] The tilting bolt (pin) 71 has a head 711, a shank 712, and a threaded portion 713. The outer periphery of the shank 712 is smooth, and an external thread is formed on the outer periphery of the threaded portion 713. As described later, the tilting bolt (pin) 71 extends in the left-right direction. That is, the tilting bolt 71 extends in the vehicle width direction and is provided through the side plate portions 62 and 63, a pair of support members 8, a cam 74, an operating lever 70, a nut 751, a thrust bearing 752, and a washer 753.

[0053] In this embodiment, one support member 8 is provided on each of the left and right sides of the upper column 41. Specifically, a pair of legs 410 are provided on the left and right sides of the upper column 41, facing downwards, and the support member 8 is fitted into the legs 410. When viewed from the side, the legs 410 are rectangular in shape, extending in the front-back direction. A cylindrical elongated hole 411 extending axially is provided in the legs 410. The cylindrical elongated hole 411 penetrates the legs 410 in the left-right direction. The support member 8 is fitted into the cylindrical elongated hole 411 of the legs 410. In other words, the support member 8 is provided in the cylindrical elongated hole 411 of the legs 410 in a detachable manner. The construction of the support member 8 will be described in detail later.

[0054] The operating lever 70 has a base 701 and a rod 703. The base 701 is a cylindrical body with a through hole 702 extending through it in the left-right direction. The rod 703 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the base 701. When the rod 703 is pushed downward, the base 701 rotates.

[0055] Here, as Figure 4 As shown, a rotary cam 741 is fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 702 in the base 701. Specifically, teeth are formed on the outer circumference of the rotary cam 741, and protrusions and concave portions are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the through hole 702. The teeth of the rotary cam 741 mesh with the protrusions and concave portions of the through hole 702. Therefore, the base 701 and the rotary cam 741 rotate as a unit. Furthermore, since the fixed cam 742 does not rotate, the rotary cam 741 and the fixed cam 742 can rotate relative to each other. Moreover, the rod portion 712 of the inclined bolt (pin) 71 passes through the inclined elongated hole 621 of the side plate portion 62 of the inclined bracket 6, the support member 8, the inclined elongated hole 631 of the side plate portion 63, the fixed cam 742, the rotary cam 741, the thrust bearing 752, and the washer 753. Furthermore, the threaded portion 713 provided at the top end of the rod portion 712 meshes with the nut 751, thereby fastening the threaded portion 713 to the nut 751. Therefore, when the operating lever 70 is rotated downwards to change the vertical position of the steering column 4 relative to the tilt bracket 6, the tilt bolt (pin) 71 moves vertically inside the tilted elongated hole 621 of the side plate portion 62 and the tilted elongated hole 631 of the side plate portion 63. Then, after reaching the appropriate height position, the operating lever 70 is rotated upwards, and the rotating cam 741 rotates relative to the fixed cam 742, thereby fixing the vertical position of the steering column 4 relative to the tilt bracket 6.

[0056] Next, the structure of the support member 8 will be described. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the support member in the implementation method. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Side view. Figure 7 This is a side view of the steering device in the embodiment.

[0057] like Figures 5 to 7As shown, the support member 8 is a bracket that extends relatively long in the axial direction. Additionally, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The support member 8 shown is located on the left side of the vehicle body, but the support member 8 located on the right side of the vehicle body also has the same structure.

[0058] The support member 8 has a first portion 81 on the front side, a second portion 82 on the rear side, and a through hole 83 located in the center in the front-rear direction. The first portion 81 is a solid member, and its left side 811 is flat. Furthermore, the upper surface 812 and lower surface 814 of the first portion 81 are also flat. The front end face 813 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. The second portion 82 is a frame-shaped member with a through hole 821 extending from left to right. The upper surface 822 and lower surface 824 of the second portion 82 are flat. The rear end face 823 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. Furthermore, the edge of the through hole 821 has an upper surface 825, a lower surface 827, and a rear end face 826. The upper surface 825 and lower surface 827 are flat. The rear end face 826 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. That is, the upper surfaces 822 and 825 extend parallel to each other, and the lower surfaces 824 and 827 extend parallel to each other. Furthermore, the rear end face 823 and the rear end face 826 are concentric circular arcs. The through hole 83 is a circular through hole that passes through the support member 8 in the left-right direction. Specifically, the inner circumferential surface 831 of the through hole 83 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. The shank 712 of the inclined bolt 71 passes through the through hole 83. The through hole 83 communicates with the elongated hole 821. In other words, the elongated hole 821 extends from the through hole 83 toward the rear, that is, toward the steering wheel 2. Protrusions 832 and 833 are arranged between the through hole 83 and the elongated hole 821. The protrusion 832 is provided at the junction of the inner circumferential surface 831 and the upper surface 825 and protrudes downward. The protrusion 832 has a lower surface 832a and a side surface 832b. The protrusion 833 is provided at the junction of the inner circumferential surface 831 and the lower surface 827 and protrudes upward. The protrusion 833 has an upper surface 833a and a side surface 833b. The side surface 832b is orthogonal to the upper surface 825, and the side surface 833b is orthogonal to the lower surface 827. Therefore, when a rearward load is input from the through hole 83 to the elongated hole 821, the protrusions 832 and 833 are prone to tilt towards the elongated hole 821. Furthermore, the protrusions 834 and 835 are components used to determine the direction when the support member 8 is inserted into the cylindrical elongated hole 411 of the upper column 41. In addition, the protrusions 832 and 833 are arranged opposite to each other. The protrusions 832 and 833 are stops that hold the tilting bolt 71 in the through hole 83. In addition, the side plate portions 62 and 63 of the tilting bracket 6 mentioned above include tilted elongated holes 621 and 631 extending in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the elongated hole 821 of the support member 8.

[0059] Next, the operation of the steering device 1 when the vehicle is involved in a secondary collision will be explained. Figure 8This is a side view of the support member in the embodiment, and a diagram schematically showing the position of the pin before and after the secondary collision. Figure 9 This is a side view of the steering device according to the embodiment, and is a diagram showing the state after a secondary collision. Figure 10 This is a side view of the steering device in the comparative example, and it is a diagram showing the state after a secondary collision. Figure 11 This is a side view of the support member of the comparative example, and a diagram schematically showing the position of the pin before and after the secondary collision. Figure 12 It is a diagram schematically illustrating the relationship between the collision load and stroke experienced by the steering mechanism in a secondary collision.

[0060] First, refer to Figure 8 The dimensions of each part are described below. The diameter of the shank 712 of the inclined bolt (pin) 71 is defined as D1, the inner diameter of the through hole 83 as D2, the separation distance between the lower surface 832a of the protrusion 832 and the upper surface 833a of the protrusion 833 as D3, and the separation distance between the upper surface 825 and the lower surface 827 as D4. Diameter D1 is smaller than inner diameter D2. Separation distance D3 is smaller than diameter D1. Separation distance D4 is greater than diameter D1.

[0061] First, such as Figure 7 As shown, under normal conditions, the steering device 1 is fixed to the vehicle body 100 by means of release members 613, 614, the top plate portion 61, and a fixing pin (not shown). Furthermore, as... Figure 8 As shown at position P1 of the two dashed lines, an inclined bolt (pin) 71 is provided through the through hole 83 of the support member 8.

[0062] Next, if a secondary collision occurs after the initial collision, the driver inputs a forward (axially forward) force F onto the steering wheel 2. Thus, as... Figure 9 As shown, the steering shaft 3 and steering column 4 move forward relative to the tilt bolt (pin) 71, the tilt bracket 6, and the gearbox 5. At this time, as... Figure 8 As shown, the support member 8 moves forward relative to the tilt bolt (pin) 71. That is, the tilt bolt (pin) 71 does not change its axial position during the initial stage of the secondary collision, while the support member 8 moves forward. Since the support member 8 is fixed to the steering column 4, the steering shaft 3 and the steering column 4 move forward relative to the tilt bolt (pin) 71. Figure 8 In the diagram, for the tilting bolt (pin) 71, the first position P1 under normal conditions is represented by a dashed line, and the second position P2 during the initial stage of the secondary collision is represented by a solid line. Thus, after the secondary collision, the tilting bolt (pin) 71 damages the protrusions 832 and 833, and moves axially toward the steering wheel 2 relative to each other within the elongated hole 821. Then, at the second position P2, the tilting bolt (pin) 71 abuts against the rear end face 826 of the edge of the elongated hole 821.

[0063] In the later stage of the secondary collision after the inclined bolt (pin) 71 abuts against the rear end face 826 of the edge of the elongated hole 821, the inclined bolt (pin) 71 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the inclined elongated holes 621 and 631, and the inclined bolt (pin) 71 pushes the inclined bracket 6 forward. Thus, with the release parts 613 and 614 fixed to the vehicle body 100, the roof plate portion 61 detaches from the release parts 613 and 614, as... Figure 9 As shown, the tilting bracket 6 moves forward. Figure 9 In this process, the rear ends 613a and 614a of the detachment parts 613 and 614 move a distance L1 axially forward from the rear end of the notch 611. Thus, as... Figure 9 As shown, due to the secondary collision, the tilted bracket 6 moves a distance L1 in the forward direction along the axial direction.

[0064] In contrast, in the comparative example Figure 10 The steering device 1A has Figure 11 The support member 8A is shown. The difference between support member 8A and support member 8 is that support member 8A does not have the elongated hole 821. That is, the second portion 82A of support member 8A has a side surface 821A flush with the side surface 811. Therefore, support member 8A has a shape that is symmetrical front and back, separated by the through hole 83. Furthermore, the through hole 83 is circular in side view, and with the inclined bolt 71 passing through the through hole 83, the inclined bolt 71 can move together with support member 8A.

[0065] Therefore, such as Figure 10 As shown, if a secondary collision occurs and the driver applies a forward (axially forward) force F to the steering wheel 2, then with the release members 613 and 614 fixed to the vehicle body 100, the roof panel 61 detaches from the release members 613 and 614. Afterwards, as... Figure 10 As shown, the tilting bracket 6 moves forward. Figure 10 In the comparative example, the rear ends 613a and 614a of the detachment members 613 and 614 move forward axially by a distance L2 from the rear end of the notch 611. Thus, in the secondary collision of the comparative example, there is no initial stage corresponding to the secondary collision of the embodiment, but only a stage corresponding to the later stage. Therefore, in the comparative example, after the secondary collision occurs, the top plate portion 61 immediately detaches from the detachment members 613 and 614, and the tilting bracket 6 moves forward. Therefore, the tilting bracket 6 moves forward axially by a distance L2.

[0066] As described above, in the steering device 1 of the embodiment, after a secondary collision, the tilting bolt (pin) 71 damages the protrusions 832 and 833 of the support member 8, causing them to move axially toward the steering wheel 2 within the elongated hole 821. Therefore, comparing the embodiment and the comparative example, the moving distance of the tilting bracket 6 in the embodiment is reduced by the amount of axial distance of the elongated hole 821. That is, the distance L1 is smaller than the distance L2 by the amount of axial distance of the elongated hole 821.

[0067] In addition, such as Figure 12 As shown, in the embodiment, in the event of a secondary collision, two peak values ​​of the collision load are formed. Specifically, in the initial stage A, after the driver touches the steering wheel 2, the tilting bolt (pin) 71 damages the protrusions 832 and 833, causing them to move axially toward the steering wheel 2 within the elongated hole 821. Therefore, in the initial stage A, the collision load reaches the first peak load. Furthermore, in the later stage B, the tilting bolt (pin) 71 pushes the tilting bracket 6 forward, the top plate 61 disengages from the release members 613 and 614, and the tilting bracket 6 moves forward. Therefore, in the later stage B, the collision load reaches the second peak load.

[0068] In contrast, in the comparative example, since the collision load increases sharply after the second collision, the peak load of the comparative example is greater than the first and second peak loads of the embodiment. Furthermore, the area enclosed by the collision load graph and the X-axis (stroke) represents the amount of collision energy absorbed.

[0069] As described above, the steering device 1 of the embodiment includes: an upper shaft (input shaft) 31, which is connected to the steering wheel 2 and extends axially; a lower shaft (output shaft) 32, a portion of which is fitted with the upper shaft 31, and the lower shaft 32 is axially movable relative to the upper shaft 31; an upper column 41, which is cylindrical and disposed radially outside the upper shaft 31, supporting the upper shaft 31 so that it can rotate; a lower column 42, which is cylindrical and fitted with the upper column 41, and is axially movable relative to the upper column 41; a tilting bracket (column bracket) 6, which has side plate portions 62, 63 located on the side of the upper column 41 and is detachable relative to the vehicle body 100; a support member 8, which is provided on the upper column 41; and a tilting bolt 71, which extends radially and is provided through the side plate portions 62, 63 and the support member 8. The support member 8 includes: a through hole 83 through which the tilt bolt 71 passes; an elongated hole 821 extending from the through hole 83 toward the steering wheel 2; and protrusions (stops) 832, 833 located between the through hole 83 and the elongated hole 821 and supporting the tilt bolt 71.

[0070] In the event of a secondary collision, if the driver touches the steering wheel 2, a forward force is transmitted to the pillar 41 via the upper shaft (input shaft) 31. Since the upper pillar 41 is provided with a support member 8, the support member 8 moves forward relative to the tilt bolt 71. Specifically, as the support member 8 moves forward, the protrusions (stops) 832 and 833 are damaged by the tilt bolt 71, and the tilt bolt 71 moves relative to the support member 8 within the elongated hole 821. Then, when the tilt bolt 71 touches the rear end face 826 of the edge of the elongated hole 821, the tilt bracket (pillar support) 6 disengages relative to the vehicle body because the tilt bolt 71 pushes forward against the side plate portions 62 and 63. Afterward, the upper pillar 41 and the pillar support move forward. Thus, according to this disclosure, in the event of a secondary collision, the forward movement of the tilt bracket (pillar support) 6 reduces the distance the tilt bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821 of the support member 8. Therefore, the space on the front side of the tilting bracket (column bracket) 6 becomes larger after the secondary collision, allowing for the placement of more or larger components in the space on the front side of the tilting bracket (column bracket) 6. Furthermore, the support member 8 has a shape that is asymmetrical in the front-rear direction, with respect to the center. The support member 8, mounted on the right side of the upper column 41, can be mounted on the left side of the upper column 41, taking into account the direction of the elongated hole 821.

[0071] The upper column 41 includes a cylindrical elongated hole 411 extending along the axial direction, and a support member 8 is disposed in the cylindrical elongated hole 411. Thus, if the support member 8 is installed in the cylindrical elongated hole 411, it becomes a non-telescopic specification; however, the support member 8 can be detached from the cylindrical elongated hole 411 to form a telescopic specification. In this way, both the telescopic specification and the non-telescopic specification can be applied to the same upper column 41, enabling the sharing of components in the upper column 41.

[0072] The support member 8 is provided on the upper column 41 in a manner that allows it to be attached and detached relative to the upper column 41. In this way, by attaching and detaching the support member 8 relative to the upper column 41, it is possible to easily switch between the telescopic specification and the specification without telescopic function.

[0073] By appropriately changing the height of the protrusions (stops) 832 and 833, the load on the inclined bolt 71 when it passes over the protrusions 832 and 833 and enters the elongated hole 821 can be easily adjusted.

[0074] The side plate portions 62 and 63 include inclined elongated holes 621 and 631 extending in the vertical direction, through which the inclined bolt 71 passes. Thus, it can also be applied to a tilt steering device that changes the height of the steering wheel 2 according to the driver's body shape, driving posture, etc.

[0075] [First Variation]

[0076] Next, the support member of the first modified example will be described. Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the support member of the first modified example. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Side view.

[0077] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the support member 8B is a bracket that extends relatively long in the axial direction. Furthermore, while the support member 8B is located on the left side of the vehicle body, the support member 8B located on the right side of the vehicle body also has the same construction.

[0078] The support member 8B has a first portion 81B on the front side, a second portion 82 on the rear side, and a through hole 83B located in the center in the front-rear direction. The first portion 81B is a frame-shaped member with a through hole 811B extending from left to right. The upper surface 812 and lower surface 814 of the first portion 81B are flat. The front end face 813 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. Furthermore, the edge of the through hole 811B has an upper surface 815B, a lower surface 817B, and a front end face 816B. The upper surface 815B and lower surface 817B are flat. The front end face 816B is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. That is, the upper surface 812 and upper surface 815B extend parallel to each other, and the lower surface 814 and lower surface 817B extend parallel to each other. Furthermore, the front end face 813 and front end face 816B are concentric arcs.

[0079] Part 2, 82, is a frame-shaped component with a long, through-hole 821. The structure of part 2, 82, is similar to... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first embodiment shown is the same, therefore, the description is omitted.

[0080] The through hole 83B extends through the support member 8B in the left-right direction. Specifically, the inner circumferential surfaces 831B and 839B of the through hole 83B are arc-shaped when viewed from the side. The shank 712 of the tilt bolt 71 passes through the through hole 83B. The through hole 83B communicates with the elongated hole 821. In other words, the elongated hole 821 extends rearward from the through hole 83B, i.e., towards the steering wheel 2. Protrusions 832, 833, 837B, and 838B supporting the tilt bolt 71 are arranged between the through hole 83B and the elongated hole 821. Protrusion 832 is located at the junction of the inner circumferential surface 831 and the upper surface 825, and protrudes downward. Protrusion 833 is located at the junction of the inner circumferential surface 831 and the lower surface 827, and protrudes upward. Protrusions 832 and 833 are arranged opposite to each other. Protrusions 832 and 833 are stops that hold the inclined bolt 71 in the through hole 83B. Furthermore, protrusions 837B and 838B have a shape symmetrical to protrusions 832 and 833, located at the center of the long side of the support member 8B. Protrusion 837B protrudes downwards, and protrusion 838B protrudes upwards.

[0081] As explained above, in the first modification, the support member 8B also includes a through hole 83B for the inclined bolt 71 to pass through, an elongated hole 821, and protrusions (stops) 832 and 833. Therefore, during a secondary collision, the forward movement of the inclined bracket (column bracket) 6 reduces the distance the inclined bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821 of the support member 8B. Furthermore, the support member 8B has a shape that is symmetrical about its front and rear sides, allowing it to be mounted vertically in the cylindrical elongated hole 411 of the upper column 41. This simplifies the assembly of the support member 8B.

[0082] [Second Variation]

[0083] Next, the support member of the second modified example will be described. Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the support member in the second variation. Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Side view.

[0084] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the support member 8C is a bracket that extends relatively long in the axial direction. Furthermore, while the support member 8C is located on the left side of the vehicle body, the support member 8C located on the right side of the vehicle body also has the same construction.

[0085] The support member 8C has a first portion 81C on the front side, a second portion 82C on the rear side, and a through hole 83C located in the center in the front-rear direction. The first portion 81C is a frame-shaped member with a through hole 811C extending from left to right. The upper surface 812 and lower surface 814 of the first portion 81C are flat. The front end face 813 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. Furthermore, the edge of the through hole 811C has an upper surface 815C, a lower surface 817C, a front end face 816C, and a rear end face 818C. The upper surface 815C and lower surface 817C are flat. The front end face 816C and rear end face 818C are arc-shaped when viewed from the side. That is, the upper surface 812 and upper surface 815C extend parallel to each other, and the lower surface 814 and lower surface 817C extend parallel to each other. Furthermore, the front end face 813 and front end face 816C are concentric arcs.

[0086] Part 2, 82C, is a frame-shaped component with a through-hole 821C. The edge of the through-hole 821C has an upper surface 825, a lower surface 827, a rear end surface 826, and a front end surface 828C. The front end surface 828C is arc-shaped when viewed from the side.

[0087] The through hole 83C is a circular through hole. That is, the inner circumferential surface 831C of the through hole 83C is circular. A stop portion (stop member) 832C for supporting the inclined bolt 71 is provided between the through hole 83C and the elongated hole 821C. The through hole 83C and the elongated hole 821C are separated by the stop portion 832C. The stop portion 832C is a stop member that holds the inclined bolt 71 in the through hole 83C. Upon collision, the inclined bolt 71 hits the stop portion 832C, causing the stop portion 832C to break, thereby allowing the inclined bolt 71 to move from the through hole 83C to the elongated hole 821C.

[0088] As explained above, in the second modification, the support member 8C also includes a through hole 83C for the inclined bolt 71 to pass through, an elongated hole 821C, and a stop portion 832C. Therefore, during a secondary collision, the forward movement of the inclined bracket (column bracket) 6 reduces the distance the inclined bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821 of the support member 8C. Furthermore, the support member 8C has a shape that is symmetrical about its front and rear sides, allowing it to be mounted vertically in the cylindrical elongated hole 411 of the upper column 41. This simplifies the assembly of the support member 8C.

[0089] [3rd Variation]

[0090] Next, the support member of the third modified example will be described. Figure 17 This is a perspective view of the support member in the third variation. Figure 18 yes Figure 17 Side view.

[0091] like Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the support member 8D is a bracket that extends relatively long in the axial direction. Furthermore, while the support member 8D is located on the left side of the vehicle body, the support member 8D located on the right side of the vehicle body also has the same construction.

[0092] The through hole 83D extends through the support member 8D in the left-right direction. Specifically, the inner circumferential surface 831D of the through hole 83D is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. The shank 712 of the inclined bolt 71 passes through the through hole 83D.

[0093] The second part 82D is a frame-shaped member with a through-hole 821D. The upper surface 822D and lower surface 824D of the second part 82D are flat. The rear end face 823 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. Furthermore, the edge of the through-hole 821D has an upper surface 825D, a lower surface 827D, and a rear end face 826. The upper surface 825D and lower surface 827D are flat. The rear end face 826 is arc-shaped when viewed from the side. That is, the upper surfaces 822D and 825D extend parallel to each other, and the lower surfaces 824D and 827D extend parallel to each other. Furthermore, the rear end face 823 and 826 are concentric arcs.

[0094] The through hole 83D communicates with the elongated hole 821D. In other words, the elongated hole 821D extends rearward from the through hole 83D, i.e., towards the steering wheel 2. Protrusions 832D and 833D, which support the tilting bolt 71, are disposed between the through hole 83D and the elongated hole 821D. Protrusions 832D and 833D are stops that hold the tilting bolt 71 in the through hole 83D.

[0095] As explained above, in the third modification, the support member 8D also includes a through hole 83D, an elongated hole 821D, and protrusions 832D and 833D through which the tilting bolt 71 passes. Therefore, during a secondary impact, the forward movement of the tilting bracket (column support) 6 is reduced by the distance the tilting bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821D of the support member 8D. Furthermore, since the through hole 83D is located at the front end of the support member 8C, the distance of the elongated hole 821D is longer compared to that of the support member 8 in the embodiment. Therefore, during a secondary impact, the distance the tilting bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821D of the support member 8D becomes longer, and thus, the forward movement of the tilting bracket (column support) 6 is further reduced.

[0096] [4th Variation]

[0097] Next, the support member of the fourth modified example will be described. Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the support member in the fourth variation. Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Side view.

[0098] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the support member 8E is a bracket that extends relatively long in the axial direction. Furthermore, while the support member 8E is located on the left side of the vehicle body, the support member 8E located on the right side of the vehicle body also has the same construction.

[0099] The support member 8E has a structure substantially the same as that of the support member 8 in the first embodiment; therefore, only the different parts will be described. The support member 8E includes a first portion 81 on the front side, a second portion 82E on the rear side, and a through hole 83E located in the center in the front-rear direction. The difference between the support member 8E and the support member 8 is that the support member 8E has recesses 836 and 837. For example... Figure 20 As shown, recess 836 is a V-shaped recess that faces downwards when viewed from the side. Recess 837 is an inverted V-shaped recess that faces upwards when viewed from the side. Recesses 836 and 837 are positioned approximately at the same front and rear positions as protrusions 832 and 833.

[0100] As explained above, in the fourth modification, the support member 8E also includes a through hole 83E for the inclined bolt 71 to pass through, an elongated hole 821, and protrusions 832 and 833. Therefore, during a secondary impact, the forward movement of the inclined bracket (column support) 6 is reduced by the distance the inclined bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821 of the support member 8. Furthermore, the support member 8E has recesses 836 and 837, so that the protrusions 832 and 833 are easily flexed when the inclined bolt 71 passes over them. Therefore, the deviation of the load when the inclined bolt 71 moves over the protrusions 832 and 833 is smaller, and the overload is stable. Therefore, the relative movement of the inclined bolt 71 relative to the support member 8E becomes smoother.

[0101] [5th ​​Variation]

[0102] Next, the support member of the fifth modified example will be described. Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the support member in the fifth variation. Figure 22 yes Figure 21 Side view.

[0103] like Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, the support member 8F is a bracket that extends relatively long in the axial direction. In addition, the support member 8F is located on the left side of the vehicle body, but the support member 8F located on the right side of the vehicle body also has the same structure.

[0104] The support member 8F has a structure substantially the same as that of the support member 8 in the first embodiment; therefore, only the different parts will be described. The support member 8F includes a first portion 81 on the front side, a second portion 82F on the rear side, and a through hole 83F located in the center in the front-rear direction. The shapes of the protrusions 832F and 833F on the support member 8F are different from those on the support member 8. For example... Figure 22 As shown, protrusion 832F is a sharp triangular shape when viewed from the side. Protrusion 832F extends downwards. Protrusion 833F is a sharp triangular shape when viewed from the side. Protrusion 833F extends upwards.

[0105] As explained above, in the fifth variation, the support member 8F also includes a through hole 83F for the inclined bolt 71 to pass through, an elongated hole 821, and protrusions 832F and 833F. Therefore, during a secondary impact, the forward movement of the inclined bracket (column support) 6 reduces the distance the inclined bolt 71 moves within the elongated hole 821 of the support member 8. Furthermore, the protrusions 832F and 833F are sharp triangular in side view. Therefore, when the inclined bolt 71 moves, the protrusions 832F and 833F are easily damaged, thus reducing the impact on the inclined bolt 71 from the protrusions 832F and 833F during movement, and making the relative movement of the inclined bolt 71 relative to the support member 8F smoother.

[0106] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0107] 1. Steering mechanism; 2. Steering wheel; 3. Steering shaft; 31. Upper shaft (input shaft); 32. Lower shaft (output shaft); 4. Steering column; 41. Upper column; 410. Leg; 411. Cylindrical elongated hole; 42. Lower column; 5. Gearbox; 51. ECU; 52. Electric motor; 6. Tilt bracket (column bracket); 61. Top plate; 611, 612. Notch; 613, 614. Release piece; 613a, 614a. Rear end; 615, 616. Through hole; 62, 63. Side plate; 62 1. 631. Inclined elongated hole; 64. Longitudinal plate; 7. Inclined mechanism; 70. Operating lever; 701. Base; 702. Through hole; 703. Rod; 71. Inclined bolt (pin); 711. Head; 712. Rod part; 713. Threaded part; 74. Cam; 741. Rotary cam; 742. Fixed cam; 751. Nut; 752. Thrust bearing; 753. Washer; 8. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F. Supporting components; 81. 81B, 81C. Part 1; 811. Side view; 811B, 811C, through hole; 812, upper surface; 813, front end face; 814, lower surface; 815B, 815C, upper surface; 816B, 816C, front end face; 817B, 817C, lower surface; 818C, rear end face; 82, 82A, 82C, 82D, 82E, 82F, second part; 821, 821C, 821D, elongated hole; 821A, side view; 822, 822D, upper surface; 823, rear end face; 824, 824D, lower... Surface; 825, 825D, upper surface; 826, rear end face; 827, 827D, lower surface; 83, 83B, 83C, 83D, 83E, 83F, through hole; 831, 831B, 831C, 831D, inner circumferential surface; 832, 832D, 832F, 833, 833D, 833F, protrusion (stop); 832C, stop part (stop); 834, 835, protrusion; 836, 837, recess; 839B, inner circumferential surface; 100, vehicle body.

Claims

1. A steering device that does not have a telescopic function, wherein, The steering mechanism includes: The steering shaft is connected to the steering wheel and extends axially; The upper column, which is cylindrical, is located on the radially outer side of the steering shaft; The lower column is cylindrical and is fitted with the upper column and can move relative to the upper column along the axial direction. The pillar support has a side plate portion located on the side of the upper pillar and is capable of detaching from the vehicle body in the event of a collision; A supporting member is provided on the upper column; as well as A pin, which extends along the width of the vehicle and passes through the side panel and the support member, is provided. The support member includes: a through hole through which the pin passes; an elongated hole extending from the through hole toward the steering wheel; and a stop located between the through hole and the elongated hole. Upon impact, the pin contacts the stop, causing the stop to deform, thereby enabling the pin to move from the through hole to the elongated hole.

2. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein, The upper column includes a cylindrical elongated hole extending along the axial direction. The support member is installed in the cylindrical elongated hole.

3. The steering device according to claim 2, wherein, The support member is mounted on the upper column in a manner that allows it to be attached and detached relative to the upper column.

4. The steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The stop is a protrusion.

5. The steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The side plate portion includes an inclined elongated hole extending in a direction intersecting the extending direction of the elongated hole. The pin passes through the inclined elongated hole.

Images