Steering device

Abstract

In a steering device according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a shaft support portion, a housing, and a load absorbing mechanism are provided. The load absorbing mechanism includes an absorbing plate provided to the shaft support portion and extending in a front-rear direction along the shaft support portion, and a scraping member connected to the housing and configured to pass through the absorbing plate in the front-rear direction at the time of a secondary collision to plastically deform the absorbing plate. The scraping member includes a base portion having a guide surface and a retreat surface, and a guide pin having a scraping surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to steering mechanisms.

[0002] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-078606, filed on May 14, 2024 in Japan, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] As a steering device, it is known to have the following components: an inner column that supports the steering shaft in a rotatable manner; and an outer column that supports the inner column in a manner that allows it to move in the forward and backward direction.

[0004] This steering system incorporates a configuration where, in the event of a secondary collision or similar predetermined load acting on the steering axle, the inner column moves forward relative to the outer column (a so-called collapse stroke), thereby mitigating the impact load applied to the driver. For example, in Patent Document 1 below, during a secondary collision, a guide protrusion located on the inner column widens the guide groove formed on the outer column while the inner column moves forward. This generates sliding resistance between the guide protrusion and the inner circumferential surface of the guide groove, mitigating the impact load applied to the driver during the secondary collision.

[0005] Prior art literature Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-347243. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve However, in the aforementioned prior art, the impact absorption performance is adjusted by using the interference of the guide protrusion and guide groove (the amount of overlap under the main view). Therefore, due to dimensional deviations, it is difficult to set the impact absorption performance within the desired range.

[0007] This disclosure provides a steering device that allows for easy setting of shock absorption performance within a desired range.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem To address the aforementioned issues, the present disclosure adopts the following solution.

[0009] (1) One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a steering device comprising: an axle support portion that supports a steering axle in a manner rotatable about an axis in the longitudinal direction; a housing that is supported on a vehicle body and supports the aforementioned axle support portion in a manner movable in the longitudinal direction; and a load-absorbing mechanism disposed between the aforementioned axle support portion and the aforementioned housing, the aforementioned load-absorbing mechanism comprising: an absorber plate disposed on the aforementioned axle support portion and extending along the aforementioned axle support portion in the longitudinal direction; and a scraping member connected to the aforementioned housing, and, in the event of a secondary collision, scraping the absorber plate in the longitudinal direction. During the process, the aforementioned absorbent plate is plastically deformed. The aforementioned scraping component includes: a base portion having a first guide surface disposed on a first side of the aforementioned absorbent plate in the thickness direction relative to the aforementioned absorbent plate, and a first retraction surface extending from the aforementioned first guide surface toward a first side in the front-rear direction toward the aforementioned thickness direction; and a guide pin having a scraping surface and disposed in the aforementioned base portion at a position facing the aforementioned first retraction surface, the aforementioned scraping surface being disposed on a second side of the aforementioned absorbent plate in the aforementioned thickness direction and on a first side of the aforementioned thickness direction relative to the aforementioned first guide surface.

[0010] According to this solution, during a secondary collision, the shaft support and the absorber plate move forward relative to the scraping component. At this time, the absorber plate undergoes plastic deformation as it passes between the guide surface and the scraping surface. That is, the scraping surface is located on the first side in the thickness direction relative to the guide surface, and thus the absorber plate deforms towards the first side in the thickness direction as it moves forward. Furthermore, the load generated during the plastic deformation of the absorber plate mitigates the impact load applied to the driver during the secondary collision. In this case, the impact load generated during the secondary collision is mitigated by the bending deformation of the absorber plate and the frictional force between the absorber plate and the scraping component, thus making dimensional management to ensure the desired impact absorption performance easier compared to conventional configurations that widen the guide groove. Therefore, it is easy to set the impact absorption performance within the desired range.

[0011] (2) In the steering device involved in the above (1) scheme, it is preferable that the aforementioned absorption plate is provided with the aforementioned thickness direction being the radial direction that intersects the aforementioned axis when viewed from the front-rear direction.

[0012] According to this solution, compared to cases where the absorber plate is arranged with its thickness direction in the circumferential direction of the shaft support, the size of the absorber plate can be easily set while aiming to miniaturize the steering device in the radial direction of the shaft support.

[0013] (3) In the steering device involved in the above-mentioned (1) or (2) scheme, it is preferred that the portion of the aforementioned absorption plate located in front of the aforementioned scraping member is fixed to the aforementioned shaft support portion, and the portion of the aforementioned absorption plate located behind the aforementioned scraping member is supported on the aforementioned shaft support portion in a manner that allows displacement relative to the aforementioned shaft support portion in the front-back direction but does not allow displacement in the aforementioned thickness direction.

[0014] According to this solution, in the state prior to the secondary impact, the swaying of the absorber plate (displacement relative to the shaft support along the thickness direction) can be suppressed. Furthermore, during the secondary impact, when the absorber plate is pulled rearward by the scraping member, the portion of the absorber plate located rearward relative to the scraping member displaces rearward relative to the tube. This suppresses unintended deformation of the absorber plate, such as slackness. As a result, the absorber plate can be effectively deformed, easily ensuring the desired impact absorption performance.

[0015] (4) In any of the above (1) to (3), the steering device is preferably: a connecting member that connects the aforementioned scraping member and the aforementioned shaft support; and an actuator provided in the aforementioned housing, which moves the aforementioned scraping member in the front-rear direction, wherein the aforementioned connecting member is configured to break by a load acting between the aforementioned shaft support and the aforementioned connecting member during a secondary collision.

[0016] According to this solution, in the state prior to a secondary collision, the squeegee component can be moved back and forth using the driving force of the actuator, which in turn moves the axle support component back and forth. This allows the steering wheel's fore-and-aft position to be changed according to the driver's physique and driving posture. Furthermore, during a secondary collision, the connecting component breaks, allowing the squeegee component and the axle support component to move relative to each other. Therefore, as described above, the relative movement of the absorber plate and the squeegee component ensures impact absorption performance.

[0017] That is, the scraping component has the functions of shock absorption and transmission of driving force during extension and retraction, which can reduce the number of parts.

[0018] (5) In the steering device of any of the solutions in (4) above, it is preferred that the aforementioned housing includes: a bracket that supports the aforementioned vehicle body and is connected to the aforementioned scraping member; and a housing body that supports the aforementioned bracket and supports the aforementioned shaft support in a manner that allows it to move in the front-rear direction. A slit is formed in the aforementioned housing body, the aforementioned slit extends in the front-rear direction, and guides the movement of the aforementioned scraping member relative to the aforementioned housing body in the front-rear direction.

[0019] According to this design, during the telescopic movement and secondary collision, the squeegee component moves back and forth along the slit. This allows the squeegee component to move smoothly back and forth.

[0020] (6) In any of the above (5) solutions, the steering device preferably has a load-absorbing mechanism that includes a sliding guide that surrounds the scraping member and is made of a material with a lower coefficient of friction than the scraping member.

[0021] According to this solution, the frictional resistance between the scraping component and the inner surface of the slit can be reduced when the scraping component moves back and forth within the slit. As a result, the scraping component can move back and forth more smoothly.

[0022] (7) In the steering device involved in any of the solutions in (5) or (6) above, it is preferred that the aforementioned bracket includes: a bracket body that supports the aforementioned housing body; a boss that protrudes from the aforementioned bracket body and is fixed to the aforementioned vehicle side mounting portion in a state facing the vehicle side mounting portion provided on the aforementioned vehicle body; and a rib that protrudes from the aforementioned bracket body along the protruding direction of the aforementioned boss and extends in a direction intersecting the aforementioned protruding direction and is connected to the aforementioned boss.

[0023] According to this solution, the rigidity of the bracket can be ensured, resisting the upward load acting on the bracket due to the impact load. Therefore, in the event of a secondary impact, unwanted deformation of unintended parts such as the bracket 21 can be suppressed, and the forward movement (collapse stroke) of the shaft support can be hindered. As a result, impact absorption performance is easily ensured.

[0024] (8) In the steering device involved in any of the above (1) to (7), it is preferred that a narrow portion with a width narrower than the width of the front end of the aforementioned absorbent plate is formed at the rear end of the aforementioned absorbent plate, and the aforementioned narrow portion is provided at a position facing either the aforementioned guide surface or the aforementioned scraping surface in the state before the secondary collision.

[0025] According to this scheme, during the secondary collision, the absorber plate undergoes plastic deformation starting from the narrow section. This reduces the initial load (starting load) acting immediately after the secondary collision.

[0026] The effects of the invention Based on the above schemes, it is easy to set the impact absorption performance within the desired range. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the steering mechanism from above.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the steering mechanism from below.

[0029] Figure 3This is an enlarged perspective view of the steering device shown with the guide mechanism disassembled.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a front side view of the steering mechanism.

[0031] Figure 5 Is with Figure 1 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the VV line.

[0032] Figure 6 Is with Figure 5 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the VI-IVI line.

[0033] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view showing the tube, the main body of the shell, and the bushing disassembled.

[0034] Figure 8 Is with Figure 6 The cross-sectional view corresponding to line VIII-VIII.

[0035] Figure 9 This is an enlarged perspective view of the steering device shown with the load-absorbing mechanism disassembled.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a bottom view showing the steering device in a disassembled state, with components such as the scraper removed.

[0037] Figure 11 Is with Figure 10 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the XI-XI line.

[0038] Figure 12 Is with Figure 11 The cross-sectional view corresponding to line XII-XII.

[0039] Figure 13 It is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the actions during a secondary collision. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments and variations described below, the same reference numerals are sometimes used for corresponding components and descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, in the following description, expressions indicating relative or absolute configurations, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "center," and "coaxial," not only indicate a strict configuration but also indicate a state of relative displacement by angle or distance with tolerances or to the extent that the same function can be obtained.

[0041] [Steering mechanism 1] Figure 1 , Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the steering device 1.

[0042] like Figure 1As shown, the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle. The steering device 1 adjusts the wheel angle in conjunction with the rotation of the steering wheel 2.

[0043] The steering device 1 includes a housing 11, a tube 12, a steering shaft 13, a guide mechanism 14, a drive mechanism 15, and a load-absorbing mechanism 16. The tube 12 and the steering shaft 13 are each formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the axis O1. Therefore, in the following description, the direction in which the axis O1 of the tube 12 and the steering shaft 13 extends is sometimes referred to only as the axial direction, the direction orthogonal to the axis O1 is referred to as the radial direction, and the direction about the axis O1 is referred to as the circumferential direction.

[0044] In this embodiment, the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle with its axis O1 intersecting the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Specifically, the axis O1 of the steering device 1 extends upwards towards the rear. In the following description, for convenience, in the steering device 1, the direction towards the steering wheel 2 in the axial direction will be referred to only as the rearward direction, and the direction towards the opposite side of the steering wheel 2 will be referred to only as the forward direction (arrow FR). In addition, in the radial direction, the vertical direction when the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle will be referred to only as the vertical direction (arrow UP for upward), and the horizontal direction will be referred to only as the horizontal direction (arrow LH for left).

[0045] <Shell 11> The housing 11 includes a tilting bracket 21, a housing body 22, a bushing 27, and fastening components 28.

[0046] The tilting bracket 21 is formed in a U-shape in both frontal and top views. The tilting bracket 21 has a pair of side frames (first side frame 23A and second side frame 23B), a mounting brace 24, an upper arch 25, and a lower arch 26.

[0047] Each side frame 23A, 23B supports the housing body 22 in a manner that allows it to rotate about an axis O2 along the left-right direction. Each side frame 23A, 23B is positioned on either side of the housing body 22 in the left-right direction. Each side frame 23A, 23B extends in the front-back direction, sandwiching the housing body 22 and facing each other in the left-right direction. A pivot 30 is provided at the front end of each side frame 23A, 23B. The pivot 30 extends in the left-right direction along the axis O2 and passes through each of the side frames 23A, 23B. A tilting bracket 21 supports the housing body 22 via the pivot 30 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the axis O2. A tilting guide hole 31 is formed at the rear end of each side frame 23A, 23B. The tilting guide hole 31 passes through each side frame 23A, 23B in the left-right direction and extends in the up-down direction. The tilting guide hole 31 is formed in an arc shape with the axis O2 as the center of curvature when viewed from the side from the left and right directions.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the mounting strut 24 is installed on the steering bracket 200 of the vehicle body. Viewed from above, the mounting strut 24 is formed in a rearward-opening U-shape. The mounting strut 24 includes a pair of side struts 35 and a front side strut 36.

[0049] Each side support 35 protrudes outward in the left-right direction from the upper end of each side frame 23A, 23B. A rear mounting base 40 is formed at the rear end of each side support 35. The rear mounting base 40 connects the steering hanger 200 to the rear of the steering device 1. The rear mounting base 40 bulges upward from the rear end of the side support 35. The upper surface of the rear mounting base 40 is entirely smooth. The rear mounting bases 40 formed on each side support 35 are all of the same shape. Therefore, in the following description, the rear mounting base 40 formed on one (left) side support 35 will be used as an example to explain the details of the rear mounting base 40.

[0050] Figure 3 This is an enlarged perspective view of the steering device 1 shown with the guide mechanism 14 disassembled.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the rear mounting base 40 has a boss 40a, a front rib 40b, and a rear rib 40c.

[0052] The boss portion 40a is the portion of the rear mounting base 40 located around the rear through hole 42. The rear through hole 42 extends vertically through the rear mounting base 40 and the side support 35. In the illustrated example, the boss portion 40a is formed in a circular shape surrounding the rear through hole 42.

[0053] The front rib 40b is the portion that extends forward from the boss portion 40a when viewed from above. Specifically, the front rib 40b extends inward in the left-right direction as it faces forward. The width of the front rib 40b (the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the extension direction) is formed uniformly throughout the entire structure. The end portion of the front rib 40b reaches the inner edge of the side support 35 in the left-right direction (the boundary portion between the side support 35 and the first side frame 23A).

[0054] The rear rib 40c is the portion extending rearward from the boss portion 40a when viewed from above. Specifically, the rear rib 40c extends inward in the left-right direction as it moves rearward. Therefore, the rear rib 40c extends towards the inclined guide hole 31 when viewed from above. The width of the rear rib 40c gradually decreases towards its end. The end of the rear rib 40c reaches the inner edge of the side support 35 in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the protrusion of the rear mounting base 40 and the dimensions of each rib 40b and 40c can be appropriately modified.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the front support bar 36 is mounted between the front ends of each side support bar 35. The upper edges of the side frames 23A and 23B are integrally connected to the lower surface of the front support bar 36. In the illustrated example, at least a portion of the outer end face of the front support bar 36 in the left-right direction is coplanar with the outer end faces of the side frames 23A and 23B in the left-right direction.

[0056] Figure 4 This is a front side view of the steering device 1.

[0057] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 As shown, front mounting bases 45 are formed at both ends of the front support bar 36 in the left-right direction. The front mounting bases 45 are the parts that connect the steering hanger 200 to the front of the steering device 1. Each front mounting base 45 bulges upward from the front support bar 36. The upper surface of the front mounting base 45 is entirely formed as a smooth surface. Each front mounting base 45 has the same shape. Therefore, in the following description, the details of the front mounting base 45 will be explained using one (left) front mounting base 45 as an example.

[0058] The front mounting base 45 has a boss 45a and a rib 45b.

[0059] The boss portion 45a is the portion of the front mounting base 45 located around the front through hole 46. The front through hole 46 extends vertically through the front mounting base 45 and the front support bar 36. In the illustrated example, the boss portion 45a is formed in a circular shape surrounding the front through hole 46. In a side view, the boss portion 45a is located further forward than the axis O2.

[0060] Rib 45b is the portion extending rearward from boss 45a when viewed from above. Specifically, rib 45b extends outward in the left-right direction as it extends rearward. The width of rib 45b (the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the extension direction) is formed uniformly throughout the entire structure. The end portion of rib 45b reaches the outer edge of the front support 36 in the left-right direction (the boundary portion between the front support 36 and the side frame 23A). At least the outer end portion of rib 45b in the left-right direction coincides with axis O2 when viewed from above. However, the relative position of the front mounting base 45 and axis O2 in the front-rear direction can be appropriately changed.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, the corresponding rear mounting base 40 and front mounting base 45 are arranged side-by-side with a gap between them in the front-rear direction on both sides of the mounting support 24 in the left-right direction relative to the axis O1. In this case, one of the rear mounting bases 40 is preferably arranged within the left-right dimension range of the corresponding front mounting base 45. However, the corresponding rear mounting bases 40 and front mounting bases 45 may also be arranged offset from each other in the left-right direction.

[0062] The tilt bracket 21 is fixed to the steering hanger 200 via mounting bases 40 and 45. Specifically, the tilt bracket 21 is fixed to the steering hanger 200 by bolts or other fastening components passing through through holes 42 and 46 between the mounting support 24 and the steering hanger 200. Thus, the steering device 1 is supported on the vehicle body in a suspended state by the steering hanger 200. With the tilt bracket 21 fixed to the steering hanger 200, the upper surface of each mounting base 40 and 45 is in contact with the lower surface of the steering hanger 200. In this case, regarding the upper surface of each mounting base 40 and 45, preferably at least a portion of each of the bosses 40a and 45a and the ribs 40b, 40c, and 45b is in contact with the lower surface of the steering hanger 200.

[0063] The upper arch 25 is mounted between the upper ends of the side frames 23A and 23B in the left-right direction. The upper arch 25 is located between the rear mounting base 40 and the front mounting base 45 in the front-back direction.

[0064] The lower arch 26 is mounted between the lower ends of the side frames 23A and 23B in a left-right direction. The lower arch 26 is located further forward than the upper arch 25 and coincides with the tilting guide hole 31 when viewed from above.

[0065] Figure 5 Is with Figure 1 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the VV line.

[0066] like Figure 1 , Figure 5As shown, the housing body 22 supports the tube 12 and the steering shaft 13 in a manner that allows them to move back and forth inside the tilting bracket 21. The housing body 22 has a retaining sleeve 51 and a front protruding wall 52.

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, the retaining sleeve 51 extends along the axial direction (front-to-back direction). A front bearing 55 is embedded in the front end of the retaining sleeve 51. A slit 56 opening downwards is formed in the lower part of the retaining sleeve 51. The slit 56 extends in the front-to-back direction behind the front bearing 55. The slit 56 opens on the rear end face of the retaining sleeve 51.

[0068] Figure 6 Is with Figure 5 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the VI-VI line.

[0069] like Figure 6 As shown, a pair of track portions 58 are formed at the opening edge of the slit 56 in the retaining cylinder 51. Each track portion 58 protrudes downward from the opposing side edges in the left-right direction of the opening edge of the slit 56. Each track portion 58 extends along the side edges of the slit 56 in the front-rear direction. At the upper end of each track portion 58, a receiving groove 58a is formed on the inner side facing the left-right direction. The receiving groove 58a is open on the inner side of each track portion 58 and extends in the front-rear direction.

[0070] like Figure 2 , Figure 6 As shown, a rear protruding wall 59 and a front protruding wall 60 are formed at both ends of each track portion 58 in the front-rear direction. The rear protruding walls 59 are formed at the rear ends of each track portion 58 at positions facing each other in the left-right direction. The rear protruding walls 59 protrude downward from each track portion 58. The thickness of the rear protruding walls 59 in the left-right direction is thinner than the thickness of the track portion 58 in the left-right direction. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the rear protruding walls 59 are located at the same position as the lower arch portion 26 in the front-rear direction. However, the positions of the rear protruding walls 59 and the lower arch portion 26 in the front-rear direction can be appropriately changed.

[0071] Front protruding walls 60 are formed at the front ends of each track portion 58, facing each other in the left-right direction. The front protruding walls 60 protrude downwards from each track portion 58. The thickness of the front protruding walls 60 in the left-right direction and the length in the vertical direction are the same as the rear protruding wall 59. Furthermore, the rear mounting base 40 is located between the rear protruding wall 59 and the front protruding wall 60 in the front-rear direction.

[0072] like Figure 5As shown, the front protruding wall 52 protrudes forward from the retaining cylinder 51. In frontal view, the front protruding wall 52 is formed in an upward-opening U-shape. The front protruding wall 52 is connected via pivot 30 to opposing side frames 23A and 23B in the tilting bracket 21. Thus, the housing body 22 is supported on the tilting bracket 21 in a manner that allows it to rotate about axis O2 (tilting action).

[0073] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view showing the tube 12, the housing body 22, and the bushing 27 disassembled.

[0074] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, bushing 27 is a component that improves the sliding properties of housing body 22 and tube 12 by being assembled inside housing body 22. Bushing 27 includes an insertion mounting part 70, an abutment part 71, an upright part 72, a rear connecting piece 73, and a front connecting piece 74.

[0075] The interventional mounting portion 70, when viewed from the front, has the same radius of curvature as the inner circumferential surface of the retaining sleeve 51 and is formed in a C-shape with an opening facing downwards. The interventional mounting portion 70 is inserted into the retaining sleeve 51 from the rear. The outer circumferential surface of the interventional mounting portion 70 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the retaining sleeve 51.

[0076] The contact portion 71 protrudes outward in the axial radial direction from the rear end edge of the insertion mounting portion 70. The contact portion 71 contacts from the rear relative to the rear end edge of the retaining sleeve 51, restricting the forward movement of the bushing 27 relative to the housing body 22.

[0077] The upright portion 72 protrudes downward from both end edges in the circumferential direction of the insertion mounting portion 70. The upright portion 72 extends along the entire length of each end edge in the front-rear direction. The upright portion 72 restricts the rotation of the bushing 27 relative to the housing body 22 by contacting the inner surface of the receiving groove 58a in the circumferential direction.

[0078] Rear connecting pieces 73 are formed at the rear ends of each upright portion 72 at positions facing each other in the left-right direction. The rear connecting pieces 73 protrude downward from each upright portion 72. Each rear connecting piece 73 coincides with the inner side of the corresponding rear protruding wall 59 in the circumferential direction.

[0079] Front connecting pieces 74 are formed at the front ends of each upright portion 72 at positions facing each other in the left-right direction. The front connecting pieces 74 protrude downward from each upright portion 72. Each front connecting piece 74 coincides with the inner side of the corresponding front protruding wall 60 in the circumferential direction.

[0080] Furthermore, the bushing 27 is constructed by coating a substrate made of a thin sheet of steel with a sliding material. Examples of sliding materials include resin materials such as PTFE. The substrate constitutes the entire bushing 27. The sliding material only needs to be formed in the bushing 27 at least on the inner circumferential surface of the insertion mounting portion 70. However, the range of the sliding material relative to the substrate can be appropriately varied. If the substrate is made of a material with a coefficient of friction at least lower than that of the housing body 22, the bushing 27 may be formed solely from the substrate.

[0081] Alternatively, a positioning protrusion (not shown) may be formed in the intervention mounting portion 70, which is inserted into a positioning hole (not shown) formed in the retaining sleeve 51. In this case, the positioning hole may also be formed by the retaining sleeve 51 extending through in the axial radial direction. This allows for positioning of the bushing 27 relative to the housing body 22 in both the circumferential and longitudinal directions. Alternatively, the positioning hole may be formed in the intervention mounting portion 70, and the positioning protrusion in the retaining sleeve 51.

[0082] The fastening member 28 reduces the inner diameter of the retaining sleeve 51 and the insertion mounting portion 70 by tightening the housing body 22 and the bushing 27. The fastening member 28 is provided with respect to both the rear protruding wall 59 and the front protruding wall 60. All fastening members 28 have the same configuration. Therefore, in the following description, the fastening member 28 provided on the rear protruding wall 59 will be used as an example.

[0083] The fastening component 28 includes a fastening bolt 75, a fastening nut 76, and a fastening collar 77.

[0084] The fastening bolts 75 are arranged to pass through each rear protruding wall 59 and each rear connecting piece 73 in the left-right direction from one side of the housing body 22.

[0085] The fastening nut 76 is fastened to the portion of the fastening bolt 75 that protrudes to the left or right relative to the housing body 22. The fastening member 28 reduces the inner space (inner diameter) of the retaining cylinder 51 by clamping each rear protruding wall 59 between the head of the fastening bolt 75 and the fastening nut 76 via the rear protruding wall 59.

[0086] The fastening collar 77 is fitted into the portion of the fastening bolt 75 between the rear connecting plates 73 facing each other in the left-right direction. The end face of the fastening collar 77 facing the left-right direction abuts against the rear protruding wall 59 on the same side via the rear connecting plate 73. The end face of the fastening collar 77 facing the other side in the left-right direction abuts against the rear protruding wall 59 on the other side via the rear connecting plate 73. The fastening collar 77 is positioned between the rear protruding walls 59, thereby restricting the approach movement of the rear protruding walls 59 towards each other in the left-right direction (circumferential direction). That is, the fastening collar 77 defines the inner diameter of the retaining sleeve 51 after the fastening nut 76 is tightened (the interference fit between the retaining sleeve 51 and the tube 12). Furthermore, the fastening collar 77 has a rigidity sufficient to prevent deformation due to the tightening torque acting from the fastening bolt 75. Alternatively, the fastening collar 77 can also pass through the rear connecting piece 73 and directly abut against the rear protruding wall 59.

[0087] <pipe 12> like Figure 1 , Figure 5 As shown, the tube 12 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the axial direction. The tube 12 is inserted into the retaining sleeve 51. The tube 12 is configured to be movable relative to the retaining sleeve 51 in the axial direction (front-back direction). Figure 5 As shown, a first tube bearing 63 is embedded at the rear end of tube 12. A second tube bearing 64 is embedded at the front end of tube 12. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of tube 12 is smaller than the inner diameter of retaining sleeve 51 before fastening component 28 is assembled, and is set to be the same as the inner diameter of retaining sleeve 51 after fastening component 28 is assembled.

[0088] <Steering Axle 13> The steering shaft 13 has an outer shaft 80 and an inner shaft 81.

[0089] The outer shaft 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the axial direction. The outer shaft 80 is inserted into the tube 12 in a rearward-protruding state. The outer shaft 80 is embedded in the first tube bearing 63 within the tube 12. Thus, the outer shaft 80 is supported within the tube 12 in a manner capable of rotating about axis O1. A steering wheel 2 is connected to the rearward-protruding portion of the outer shaft 80 from the tube 12. The outer shaft 80 may also be solid.

[0090] The inner shaft 81 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending along the axial direction. The inner shaft 81 is inserted into the tube 12 in a forward-protruding state. The rear end of the inner shaft 81 is inserted into the outer shaft 80 within the tube 12. The inner shaft 81 is embedded in the second tube bearing 64 within the tube 12. The front end of the inner shaft 81 is embedded in the front bearing 55 within the retaining sleeve 51. Thus, the inner shaft 81 is supported between the retaining sleeve 51 and the tube 12 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the axis O1.

[0091] The tube 12 and the outer shaft 80 are configured to move axially relative to the housing 11 and the inner shaft 81. For example, an external spline is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner shaft 81. The external spline engages with an internal spline formed on the inner circumferential surface of the outer shaft 80. Thus, the outer shaft 80 can move axially relative to the inner shaft 81 while its rotation relative to the inner shaft 81 is restricted. However, the telescoping mechanism and rotation-restricting mechanism of the steering shaft 13 can be appropriately modified. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the outer shaft 80 is positioned rearward relative to the inner shaft 81 has been described, but this configuration is not limited to this; a configuration in which the outer shaft 80 is positioned forward relative to the inner shaft 81 is also possible.

[0092] <Guiding Organization 14> like Figure 1 As shown, the guide mechanism 14 guides the rotation of the housing body 22 relative to the tilting bracket 21 about axis O2, and positions the housing body 22 in the left and right directions relative to the tilting bracket 21. Figure 6 As shown, guide mechanisms 14 are respectively provided between the first side frame 23A and the housing body 22, and between the second side frame 23B and the housing body 22. All guide mechanisms 14 have the same configuration. In the following description, the guide mechanism 14 located between the first side frame 23A and the housing body 22 will be used as an example to describe the details of the guide mechanism 14.

[0093] like Figure 3 As shown, the guide mechanism 14 includes a shaft portion 91, a wave washer 92, a sliding cap 93, a sliding collar 94, and a tilting nut 95.

[0094] like Figure 6 As shown, the shaft portion 91 is formed in a stepped shape, with the outer diameter decreasing as it moves inward in the left-right direction. Specifically, the small-diameter portion 91a, the medium-diameter portion 91b, and the large-diameter portion 91c of the shaft portion 91 are connected sequentially from the inner side to the outer side in the left-right direction. Male thread portions are formed on the outer peripheral surfaces of at least the small-diameter portion 91a and the large-diameter portion 91c in the shaft portion 91.

[0095] The shaft portion 91 is fixed to the protrusion 53 of the housing body 22 via the small-diameter portion 91a. The protrusion 53 protrudes outward from the retaining cylinder 51 in the left-right direction. Figure 7As shown, the protrusion 53 is formed in an X-shape when viewed from the side. Specifically, the protrusion 53 includes: a pair of first protrusions 53a, which protrude to both sides in the rear-forward direction relative to the central portion of the protrusion 53 when viewed from the side; and a pair of second protrusions 53b, which protrude to both sides in the up-down direction relative to the central portion of the protrusion 53. The first protrusions 53a and the second protrusions 53b are formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the side. In addition, at the outer end of the second protrusion 53b in the left-right direction, an engaging portion 53c protruding outward in the up-down direction is formed. Furthermore, the outer end faces of the protrusion 53 in the left-right direction are formed as flat surfaces.

[0096] The small-diameter portion 91a is fastened from the outer side in the left-right direction to the internal thread portion formed in the central portion of the protrusion 53. In this case, the stepped surface formed between the small-diameter portion 91a and the middle-diameter portion 91b in the shaft portion 91 abuts against the outer end face of the protrusion 53 in the left-right direction. The shaft portion 91 passes through the inclined guide hole 31 and protrudes outward in the left-right direction relative to the side frame 23A. Furthermore, a tool insertion hole for fixing the shaft portion 91 to the protrusion 53 is formed in the large-diameter portion 91c.

[0097] The wave washer 92 is assembled in the middle diameter portion 91b, between the protrusion 53 and the side frame 23A. Regarding the wave washer 92, the change in force relative to the change in compression when the compression is within a predetermined range (stable region) tends to be smaller than the change in force relative to the change in compression when the compression is outside the predetermined range.

[0098] The sliding cap 93 is fitted onto the protrusion 53 between the first side frame 23A and the housing body 22, covering the wave-shaped washer 92 from the left and right sides. The coefficient of friction of the sliding cap 93 is preferably smaller than that of the wave-shaped washer 92. However, the coefficient of friction of the sliding cap 93 may also be larger than that of the wave-shaped washer 92.

[0099] The sliding cap 93 has a main wall portion 93a and a peripheral wall portion 93b.

[0100] When viewed from the side, the main wall portion 93a is formed in a rectangular shape that is larger than the protrusion 53. With the shaft portion 91 passing through, the main wall portion 93a covers the outer end faces of the protrusion 53 in the left and right directions from the outer side. When tilting, the outer side of the main wall portion 93a in the left and right directions slides on the inner side of the first side frame 23A in the left and right directions.

[0101] Figure 8 Is with Figure 6 The cross-sectional view corresponding to line VIII-VIII.

[0102] like Figure 3, Figure 6 , Figure 8 As shown, the peripheral wall portion 93b extends from the outer periphery of the main wall portion 93a toward the inner side in the left-right direction. The peripheral wall portion 93b surrounds the protrusion 53. Specifically, the peripheral wall portion 93b has a pair of front and rear first limiting walls 93c and a pair of upper and lower second limiting walls 93d.

[0103] Each first limiting wall 93c extends inward in the left-right direction from the front and rear end edges of the outer periphery of the main wall portion 93a. Each first limiting portion 93c, when viewed from the side, is formed in a C-shape opening towards each other. Each first limiting portion 93c surrounds the first protrusion 53a from the outer side in the front-rear direction and from both sides in the vertical direction. By abutting against the protrusion 53 in the front-rear or vertical direction through the first limiting wall 93c, the movement of the sliding cap 93 relative to the housing body 22 in the front-rear or vertical direction is restricted.

[0104] Each of the second limiting walls 93d extends inward in the left-right direction from the upper and lower ends of the outer periphery of the main wall portion 93a. Each of the second limiting walls 93d is close to the vertically facing surfaces of the outer periphery of the second protrusion 53b. A locking claw 93e is formed at the end of each of the second limiting walls 93d. The locking claw 93e extends inward in the left-right direction from the second limiting wall 93d. By hooking the locking claw 93e relative to the engaging portion 53c from the left-right direction, the movement of the sliding cap 93 relative to the housing body 22 to the left-right direction is restricted.

[0105] The sliding collar 94 is a ring-shaped component formed of a material capable of elastic deformation, such as synthetic resin. The sliding collar 94 is fitted into the portion of the shaft 91 that protrudes relative to the tilting bracket 21. The coefficient of friction of the sliding collar 94 is preferably smaller than that of the tilting nut 95. However, the coefficient of friction of the sliding collar 94 may also be larger than that of the tilting nut 95. During tilting, the inner surface of the sliding collar 94 facing left-right slides on the outer surface of the first side frame 23A facing left-right.

[0106] The tilting nut 95 is fastened to the large-diameter portion 91c. The tilting nut 95 is configured such that, with the sliding collar 94 clamped between it and the first side frame 23A, the wave-shaped washer 92 is compressed and deformed. As a result, a force is applied to the wave-shaped washer 92, exerting an inward force on the housing body 22 in the left-right direction via the protrusion 53. Furthermore, the tilting nut 95 restricts the left-right displacement of the tilting bracket 21 relative to the housing body 22 via the sliding collar 94. That is, by fastening the tilting nut 95 to the large-diameter portion 91c, the vibration rigidity of the tilting bracket 21 relative to the housing body 22 in the left-right direction is increased. Moreover, the tightening torque of the tilting nut 95 is set such that the compression of the wave-shaped washer 92 is within the aforementioned predetermined range.

[0107] <Drive Mechanism 15> like Figure 2 As shown, the drive mechanism 15 includes a tilting mechanism 100 and a telescopic mechanism 101. The tilting mechanism 100 is, for example, disposed on the left side of the housing 11. The telescopic mechanism 101 is, for example, disposed on the right side of the housing 11.

[0108] The tilting mechanism 100 is a so-called feed screw mechanism. The tilting mechanism 100 includes a tilting motor 110, a tilting shaft 111, and a tilting connecting rod 112. The tilting mechanism 100 switches the limit and allowance of rotation of the steering device 1 about axis O2 by driving the tilting motor 110.

[0109] The tilt motor 110 is located in the housing body 22 between the pivot 30 and the tilt guide hole 31. A nut is built into the tilt motor 110. The nut rotates as the tilt motor 110 is driven.

[0110] The tilting shaft 111 extends obliquely upward and backward from the tilting motor 110. A male thread portion for engaging with a nut is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the tilting shaft 111. The tilting shaft 111 is configured to reciprocate along its extension direction in conjunction with the drive of the tilting motor 110.

[0111] The tilting link 112 is rotatably connected to the tilting shaft 111, the housing body 22, and the tilting bracket 21 (first side frame 23A). Driven by the tilting motor 110, the tilting link 112 can rotate about an axis in the left-right direction, with its connection to the tilting shaft 111 as the force point, its connection to the first side frame 23A as the fulcrum, and its connection to the housing body 22 as the point of action.

[0112] The telescopic mechanism 101 is a so-called feed screw mechanism. The telescopic mechanism 101 includes a telescopic motor 115 and a telescopic shaft 116. The telescopic mechanism 101 switches the restriction and allowance of the forward and backward movement of the tube 12 (steering shaft 13) relative to the housing 11 by driving the telescopic motor 115.

[0113] The telescopic motor 115 is fixed to the front end of the housing body 22. A nut is built into the telescopic motor 115. The nut rotates as the telescopic motor 115 is driven. In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, a portion (lower part) of the telescopic motor 115 coincides with the track portion 58, the protruding walls 59 and 60 when viewed from the front. However, the telescopic motor 115 may also be located in a position that does not coincide with the track portion 58, etc.

[0114] The telescopic shaft 116 extends rearward from the telescopic motor 115. Specifically, the telescopic shaft 116 extends below the housing body 22 in a manner that coincides with the axis O1 when viewed from above. At least a portion of the telescopic shaft 116 coincides with the slit 56 when viewed from above. A male threaded portion for engaging with a nut is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the telescopic shaft 116. The telescopic shaft 116 is configured to reciprocate along its extension direction (front-back direction) in conjunction with the drive of the telescopic motor 115.

[0115] <Load Absorption Mechanism 16> The load-absorbing mechanism 16 connects the telescopic shaft 116 to the tube 12. During telescopic movements (when the load acting on the tube 12 in the forward-backward direction is less than a predetermined value), the load-absorbing mechanism 16 transmits the driving force of the telescopic mechanism 101 to the tube 12, causing the tube 12 and the telescopic shaft 116 to move together with the housing 11 in the forward-backward direction. On the other hand, during secondary collisions (when the load acting on the tube 12 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value), the load-absorbing mechanism 16 causes the tube 12 to move forward relative to the housing 11 independently of the telescopic mechanism 101.

[0116] Figure 9 This is an enlarged perspective view of the steering device 1 shown with the load absorption mechanism 16 disassembled. Figure 10 This is a bottom view of the steering device 1 showing the state in which the scraping component 121 and the like are disassembled. Figure 11 Is with Figure 10 The cross-sectional view corresponding to the XI-XI line. Figure 12 Is with Figure 11 The cross-sectional view corresponding to XII-XII.

[0117] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the load absorption mechanism 16 includes an absorption plate 120, a scraping component 121, and a sliding guide 122.

[0118] The absorbent plate 120 is a strip-shaped component that extends along the front-back direction with its thickness in the vertical direction. The absorbent plate 120 is disposed along the lower surface of the tube 12 (the portion open through the slit 56). The absorbent plate 120 includes a front support portion 130, an extension portion 131, and a rear support portion 132.

[0119] The front support portion 130 forms the front end of the absorption plate 120. The front support portion 130 is fixed to the lower surface of the tube 12 by welding or the like. The width of the front support portion 130 in the left-right direction is wider than the width of the extension portion 131 in the left-right direction.

[0120] The extension 131 extends in a straight line from the front support 130 toward the rear when viewed from above. The extension 131 has a narrow portion 131a and a wide portion 131b.

[0121] The narrow portion 131a is located at the front end of the extension portion 131. The narrow portion 131a continues rearward from the front support portion 130. The width of the boundary portion between the narrow portion 131a and the front support portion 130 gradually decreases in the left-right direction as it moves rearward. In this embodiment, the narrow portion 131a is configured as a curved portion 131f that curves downward in an arc shape when viewed from the side.

[0122] The wide portion 131b extends continuously rearward from the narrow portion 131a. The width of the wide portion 131b in the left-right direction is wider than that of the narrow portion 131a in the left-right direction. The boundary between the narrow portions 131a and 131a gradually widens in the left-right direction as it moves rearward. The length of the wide portion 131b in the front-back direction is longer than that of the narrow portion 131a in the front-back direction. In this embodiment, the wide portion 131b extends linearly along the lower surface of the tube 12 when viewed from the side.

[0123] The rear support portion 132 forms the rear end of the absorption plate 120. The rear support portion 132 includes a frame portion 132a and a locking piece 132b.

[0124] The frame portion 132a extends continuously from the wide portion 131b to the rear. When viewed from above, the frame portion 132a is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame.

[0125] The latching tab 132b extends forward from the rear end of the frame portion 132a in a manner that traverses the frame portion 132a when viewed from above. After extending upwards in a forward direction, the latching tab 132b extends further forward. The front end of the latching tab 132b enters the tube 12 through a through hole 12a formed in the tube 12. The through hole 12a is formed on the lower surface of the tube 12 in the portion surrounded by the frame portion 132a when viewed from above. The front end of the latching tab 132b contacts the inner surface of the tube 12 from above. Thus, the downward movement of the rear support portion 132 relative to the tube 12 is restricted. That is, the front end of the absorber plate 120 is fixed to the tube 12 via the front support portion 130 in a manner that prevents relative movement. The rear end of the absorber plate 120 is supported to the tube 12 via the rear support portion 132 in a manner that allows relative movement in both the front-rear and left-right directions.

[0126] The scraping component 121 connects the telescopic shaft 116 to the absorption plate 120. That is, the scraping component 121 is connected to the tilting bracket 21 via the telescopic shaft 116. The scraping component 121 has a base portion 140 and a guide pin 141.

[0127] The base portion 140 is formed in a block shape. The base portion 140 has a connecting body portion 145 and a flange portion 146.

[0128] When viewed from the side, the connecting main body 145 is formed in a stepped shape, with the size increasing towards the rear in the vertical direction. Specifically, the connecting main body 145 includes an upper part 147 and a lower part 148.

[0129] The upper section 147 is located at the rear end of the connecting body section 145. The upper section 147 is fixed to the telescopic shaft 116 by bolts 150. Furthermore, a positioning protrusion 151 is formed in the upper section 147 at a position further forward than the bolts 150. The positioning protrusion 151 protrudes upward from the upper section 147. The positioning protrusion 151 is received within a positioning recess 116a formed in the telescopic shaft 116. By contacting the inner surface of the positioning recess 116a with the positioning protrusion 151, the left-right movement of the connecting body section 145 relative to the telescopic shaft 116, originating from the bolts 150, is restricted.

[0130] The lower section 148 is continuous forward relative to the upper section 147. The upper surface of the lower section 148 is positioned recessed upward relative to the upper surface of the upper section 147. The lower section 148 is fixed to the tube 12 via a rivet 155. The rivet 155 fixes the lower section 148 and the tube 12 together while passing through the lower section 148, the front support section 130, and the tube 12 in the vertical direction. The rivet 155 is configured to break (shear failure) when the load acting on the tube 12 is above a predetermined value. That is, the scraping member 121 and the tube 12 are configured such that they can move integrally via the rivet 155 when the load acting on the tube 12 is below a predetermined value (the state before the secondary collision). Furthermore, the rivet 155 and the front support section 130 may also be provided in a position offset in the front-rear direction.

[0131] like Figure 12 As shown, the flange portion 146 protrudes outward in the left-right direction from the upper end of the connecting body portion 145. Each flange portion 146 extends along the entire length of the connecting body portion 145 in the front-rear direction. Each flange portion 146 is received in a corresponding receiving groove 58a. That is, each flange portion 146 is clamped between the tube 12 and the track portion 58 in the vertical direction within the receiving groove 58a. By contacting the inner surface of the receiving groove 58a with each flange portion 146, the scraping member 121 is prevented from falling off the housing body 22. Furthermore, the upper surface of each flange portion 146 is formed in an arc shape that conforms to the outer peripheral surface of the tube 12.

[0132] like Figure 11 As shown, a through groove 145a is formed on the upper surface of the connecting body portion 145. The through groove 145a is recessed downward relative to the upper surface of the connecting body portion 145 and extends through the connecting body portion 145 in the front-rear direction. An extension portion 131 extends through the through groove 145a in the front-rear direction. The bottom surface of the through groove 145a is recessed downward in a mountain shape at the center in the front-rear direction. Specifically, the bottom surface of the through groove 145a has a first guide surface 145a1, a first retraction surface 145a2, a second retraction surface 145a3, and a second guide surface 145a4.

[0133] The first guide surface 145a1 is located at the rear end of the bottom surface of the through groove 145a. The first guide surface 145a1 extends in a straight line in the front-rear direction when viewed from the side. The rear end edge of the first guide surface 145a1 reaches the rear surface of the connecting body 145.

[0134] The first retreat surface 145a2 continues forward of the first guide surface 145a1. The first retreat surface 145a2 extends downward as it moves forward.

[0135] The second retraction surface 145a3 continues forward of the first retraction surface 145a2. The second retraction surface 145a3 extends upward as it moves forward. The boundary between the first retraction surface 145a2 and the second retraction surface 145a3 is formed in a downward-convex arc shape. A narrow section 131a (bent section 131f) is accommodated in the portion within the passage groove 145a surrounded by the first and second retraction surfaces 145a2 (hereinafter referred to as the detour section 158). The second guide surface 145a4 continues backward of the second retraction surface 145a3. The second guide surface 145a4 extends in a straight line in the front-rear direction when viewed from the side. The leading edge of the second guide surface 145a4 reaches the front surface of the connecting body section 145. A front support section 130 is accommodated in the passage groove 145a at a position facing the second guide surface 145a4.

[0136] A guide pin 141 extends through the upper end of the main body 145 in the left-right direction. The guide pin 141 is a cylindrical component. The guide pin 141 is arranged to pass through the portion of the through groove 145a located in the detour portion 158 in the front-rear direction. At least a portion of the guide pin 141 is located within the detour portion 158. The portion of the outer peripheral surface of the guide pin 141 facing the bottom surface (first retraction surface 145a2 or second retraction surface 145a3) of the through groove 145a functions as a scraping surface 141a. The scraping surface 141a is located below the first guide surface 145a1 and the second guide surface 145a4. Between the scraping surface 141a and the bottom surface of the through groove 145a, a plate passage 159 with an extension portion 131 passing through in the front-rear direction is formed. That is, the extension portion 131 is sandwiched between the bottom surface of the through groove 145a and the guide pin 141 (scraping surface 141a) in the thickness direction (vertical direction) of the extension portion 131.

[0137] like Figure 9 As shown, a sliding guide 122 is disposed between the scraping member 121 and the housing body 22. The sliding guide 122 reduces the frictional resistance between the housing body 22 (track portion 58) and the scraping member 121 during telescopic movements and secondary collisions. The sliding guide 122 is integrally formed of a material (e.g., resin material) with a coefficient of friction at least lower than that of the scraping member 121.

[0138] The sliding guide 122 has a surrounding cylinder 122a and a protrusion 122b. The surrounding cylinder 122a is formed in the shape of a square tube surrounding the circumference of the scraping member 121. The scraping member 121 is embedded inside the surrounding cylinder 122a.

[0139] The protrusion 122b protrudes outward in the left-right direction from the outer side of the surrounding cylinder 122a. The protrusion 122b extends vertically along the outer surface of the surrounding cylinder 122a in the left-right direction. Multiple protrusions 122b are formed at intervals along the front-back direction on the outer surface of the surrounding cylinder 122a. The sliding guide 122 can contact the inner surface of the track portion 58 via the protrusion 122b. However, the surrounding cylinder 122a of the sliding guide 122 can also directly contact the track portion 58.

[0140] [effect] Next, the function of the aforementioned steering device 1 will be explained. In the following explanation, the tilting action, the telescoping action, and the collapse stroke during a secondary collision will be mainly explained.

[0141] <Tilting motion> like Figure 1 As shown, the tilting action causes the housing body 22 to rotate about axis O2 via the driving force of the tilting motor 110. Specifically, if the tilting shaft 111 is moved to one side by the drive of the tilting motor 110, the tilting link 112 rotates to one side, thereby pushing the housing body 22 upward via the tilting link 112. As a result, the housing body 22 rotates upward about axis O2 relative to the tilting bracket 21. Consequently, the steering wheel 2, along with the housing body 22, the tube 12, the steering shaft 13, etc., rotates upward about axis O2.

[0142] On the other hand, if the tilting shaft 111 is moved to the other side by driving the tilting motor 110, the tilting link 112 rotates to the other side, thereby pressing down the housing body 22 via the tilting link 112. As a result, the housing body 22 rotates downward about the axis O2 relative to the tilting bracket 21. Consequently, the steering wheel 2, along with the housing body 22, the tube 12, the steering shaft 13, etc., rotates downward about the axis O2.

[0143] <Extension and contraction movement> The telescopic movement, driven by the telescopic motor 115, causes the tube 12 and outer shaft 80 to move back and forth relative to the housing 11 and inner shaft 81. Specifically, when the steering wheel 2 is moved rearward, the telescopic shaft 116 moves rearward by the drive of the telescopic motor 115. During the telescopic movement, the forward and backward movement is restricted by the engagement of the telescopic shaft 116 (male threaded portion) and the telescopic motor 115 (female threaded portion). Therefore, the rearward driving force of the telescopic shaft 116 is transmitted to the tube 12 via the bolt 150, the scraping member 121, and the rivet 155. As a result, the steering wheel 2 moves rearward by moving the tube 12 and outer shaft 80 together relative to the housing body 22.

[0144] On the other hand, when the steering wheel 2 is moved forward, the telescopic shaft 116 is moved forward by the driving force of the telescopic motor 115. The driving force of the telescopic shaft 116 forward is then transmitted to the tube 12 via the bolt 150, the squeegee 121, and the rivet 155. As a result, the steering wheel 2 moves backward relative to the housing body 22, together with the outer shaft 80, through the forward movement of the tube 12.

[0145] <During a secondary collision> Next, the actions during the secondary collision will be explained.

[0146] In this embodiment, the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle with its axis O1 intersecting the vehicle's longitudinal direction. Therefore, in the event of a secondary collision, the steering wheel 2 is directed forward and upward to apply a collision load. Due to the forward component of the collision load, the steering wheel 2, along with the tube 12, outer shaft 80, and absorber plate 120, moves forward relative to the housing body 22, inner shaft 81, and squeegee member 121.

[0147] Figure 13 It is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the actions during a secondary collision.

[0148] like Figure 13 As shown, during the secondary collision, the tube 12 moves forward relative to the scraping member 121, thereby applying a shear force to the rivet 155. If a shear force exceeding a predetermined value is applied to the rivet 155, the rivet 155 breaks. Thus, the tube 12 begins to move forward relative to the scraping member 121. At this time, the absorber plate 120 is fixed to the tube 12 via the front support 130, and therefore the absorber plate 120 moves forward together with the tube 12 relative to the scraping member 121.

[0149] As the absorption plate 120 moves forward, the extension 131 passes through the passage groove 145a. During this time, the portion of the extension 131 that enters the passage groove 145a from behind the scraping member 121 undergoes plastic deformation as it moves from the first guide surface 145a1 to the scraping surface 141a. That is, the scraping surface 141a is located below the first guide surface 145a1, and therefore the extension 131 deforms downwards as it moves forward. On the other hand, the portion of the extension 131 that passes through the plate passage 159 undergoes plastic deformation as it moves from the scraping surface 141a to the second guide surface 145a4. That is, the second guide surface 145a4 is located above the scraping surface 141a, and therefore the extension 131 deforms upwards as it moves forward. That is, during the secondary collision, as the tube 12 moves forward relative to the scraping member 121, the extension portion 131 undergoes plastic deformation in such a way that the bent portion 131f moves backward toward the extension portion 131.

[0150] Thus, during a secondary impact, the extension portion 131, while passing through the passage groove 145a, undergoes plastic deformation conforming to the positions of the first guide surface 145a1, the scraping surface 141a, and the second guide surface 145a4, and simultaneously moves forward. Furthermore, the load generated during plastic deformation mitigates the impact load applied to the driver during the secondary impact. Additionally, during a secondary impact, when the absorber plate 120 is pulled rearward by the scraping member 121, the engaging tab 132b can also disengage from the through hole 12a. Consequently, the absorber plate 120 is cantilevered in the tube 12 with the front support portion 130 as the fixed end and the rear support portion 132 as the free end.

[0151] Furthermore, the load generated during the deformation of the absorption plate 120 can be adjusted by changing the thickness or width, material, etc., of the absorption plate 120, or by changing the distance between the first guide surface 145a1 and the scraping surface 141a, or the distance between the second guide surface 145a4 and the scraping surface 141a. In this embodiment, the narrow portion 131a is accommodated within the detour portion 158 before the input collision load. This reduces the initial load (starting load) acting immediately after the second collision.

[0152] On the other hand, the upward component of the collision load is transmitted to the tilting bracket 21 via the side frames 23A and 23B. Specifically, a portion of the collision load transmitted to the side frames 23A and 23B is transmitted to the tilting bracket 21 via the guide mechanism 14. In addition, a portion of the collision load transmitted to the side frames 23A and 23B is transmitted to the tilting bracket 21 via the pivot 30.

[0153] In this embodiment, the steering device 1 has ribs 40b, 40c, and 45 formed on the mounting bases 40 and 45 of the steering hanger 200 connected to the tilt bracket 21. This ensures the rigidity of the tilt bracket 21. As a result, it can resist the upward load acting on the tilt bracket 21 caused by the collision load. Thus, in the event of a secondary collision, it can suppress unwanted deformation of the tilt bracket 21 and other unintended parts, and prevent the forward movement (collapse stroke) of the suppression tube 12 from being hindered. As a result, it is easy to ensure impact absorption performance.

[0154] As described above, the steering device 1 of this embodiment includes: a tube (shaft support) 12 that supports the steering shaft 13 in a manner rotatable about an axis O1 along the longitudinal direction; a housing 11 that is supported on the vehicle body and supports the tube 12 in a manner movable in the longitudinal direction; and a load-absorbing mechanism 16 disposed between the tube 12 and the housing 11. The load-absorbing mechanism 16 includes: an absorber plate 120 disposed on the tube 12 and extending along the tube 12 in the longitudinal direction; and a scraping member 121 connected to the housing 11, which plastically deforms the absorber plate 120 during secondary collisions as it passes through in the longitudinal direction. The scraping member 121 includes a base portion 140 and a guide pin 141. The base portion 140 includes: a first guide surface 145a disposed below the absorber plate 120 (on a first side relative to the absorber plate in the thickness direction); and a first retraction surface 145a2 extending downward from the first guide surface 145a toward the rear (on a first side in the front-rear direction). The guide pin 141 has a scraping surface 141a disposed above the absorber plate 120 (on a second side relative to the absorber plate in the thickness direction) and below the first guide surface 145a1. The guide pin 141 is located in the base portion 140 facing the first retraction surface 145a1.

[0155] According to this configuration, during a secondary impact, the tube 12 and the absorber plate 120 move forward relative to the scraping member 121. At this time, the absorber plate 120 undergoes plastic deformation as it moves from the first guide surface 145a1 to the scraping surface 141a. That is, the scraping surface 141a is positioned below the first guide surface 145a1, and thus the absorber plate 120 deforms downward as it moves forward. Furthermore, the load generated during the plastic deformation of the absorber plate 120 mitigates the impact load applied to the driver during the secondary impact. In this case, the impact load generated during the secondary impact is mitigated by the bending deformation of the absorber plate 120 and the frictional force between the absorber plate 120 and the scraping member 121. Therefore, compared to a configuration that widens the guide groove as in the past, dimensional management to ensure the desired impact absorption performance becomes easier. Consequently, the impact absorption performance can be easily set within the desired range.

[0156] In this embodiment, the steering device 1 is configured such that the absorption plate 120 is provided with the thickness direction being the axial radial direction (radial direction).

[0157] Based on this configuration, compared to cases where the absorption plate 120 is arranged with its thickness direction in the circumferential direction, the size of the absorption plate 120 can be easily set while aiming to miniaturize the steering device 1 in the axial and radial directions.

[0158] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the portion of the absorber plate 120 located in front of the scraping member 121 is fixed to the tube 12. The portion of the absorber plate 120 located behind the scraping member 121 is supported on the tube 12 in a manner that allows it to move relative to the tube 12 in the front-back direction but not in the up-down direction.

[0159] Based on this configuration, the shaking of the absorber plate 120 (displacement relative to the tube 12 in the vertical direction) can be suppressed before the secondary impact. Furthermore, during the secondary impact, when the absorber plate 120 is pulled rearward by the scraping member 121, the portion of the absorber plate 120 located rearward relative to the scraping member 121 displaces rearward relative to the tube 12. This suppresses unintended deformation of the absorber plate 120, such as relaxation. As a result, the absorber plate 120 can be effectively deformed, easily ensuring the desired impact absorption performance.

[0160] The steering device 1 in this embodiment includes: a rivet (connecting member) 155 that connects the scraping member 121 and the tube 12; and a telescopic motor (actuator) 115 disposed in the housing 11, which moves the scraping member 121 in the front-rear direction. The rivet 155 is configured to break under a load acting between the tube 12 and the rivet 155 during a secondary collision.

[0161] According to this configuration, in the state before the secondary collision, the scraping member 121 can be moved back and forth by the driving force of the telescopic motor 115, and the tube 12 can be moved back and forth via the scraping member 121. This allows the fore-and-aft position of the steering wheel 2 to be changed according to the driver's physique and driving posture. Furthermore, during the secondary collision, the rivet 155 breaks, allowing the scraping member 121 and the tube 12 to move relative to each other. Therefore, as described above, the relative movement of the absorption plate 120 and the scraping member 121 ensures impact absorption performance.

[0162] That is, the scraping component 121 has the functions of shock absorption and transmission of driving force during telescopic movement, which can reduce the number of parts.

[0163] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the housing 11 includes: a tilting bracket (support) 21 supported on the vehicle body and connected to a swiping member 121; and a housing body 22 supported on the tilting bracket and supporting the tube 12 in a manner that allows it to move in the front-rear direction. A slit 56 is formed in the housing body 22, extending in the front-rear direction and guiding the movement of the swiping member 121 relative to the housing body 22 in the front-rear direction.

[0164] According to this configuration, during the extension and retraction action and the secondary collision, the squeegee 121 moves back and forth along the slit 56. As a result, the squeegee 121 can move smoothly back and forth.

[0165] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the load absorption mechanism 16 includes a sliding guide 122 that surrounds the scraping member 121 and is formed of a material with a smaller coefficient of friction than the scraping member 121.

[0166] Based on this configuration, the frictional resistance between the squeegee 121 and the inner surface of the slit 56 can be reduced when the squeegee 121 moves back and forth within the slit 56. As a result, the squeegee 121 can move back and forth more smoothly.

[0167] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, the tilting bracket 21 includes: a bracket body (side frames 23A, 23B, mounting struts 24) that supports the housing body 22; bosses 40a, 45a that protrude from the mounting struts 24 and are fixed to the steering hanger 200 in a state facing the steering hanger (vehicle side mounting part) 200; and ribs 40b, 40c, 45b that protrude from the mounting struts 24 along the protruding direction of the bosses 40a, 45a and extend in a direction intersecting the protruding direction, and are connected to the bosses 40a, 45a.

[0168] Based on this configuration, the rigidity of the tilting bracket 21 can be ensured, resisting the upward load acting on the tilting bracket 21 caused by the collision load. Therefore, in the event of a secondary collision, unwanted deformation of unintended parts such as the tilting bracket 21 can be suppressed, and the forward movement (collapse stroke) of the suppression tube 12 is hindered. As a result, impact absorption performance is easily ensured.

[0169] In the steering device 1 of this embodiment, a narrow portion 131a is formed at the rear end of the absorber plate 120, which is narrower than the width of the front end of the absorber plate 120. The narrow portion 131a is positioned facing either the first guide surface 145a1 or the scraping surface 141a in the state before the secondary collision.

[0170] Based on this configuration, during a secondary collision, the absorption plate 120 undergoes plastic deformation starting from the narrow portion 131a. This reduces the initial load (starting load) acting immediately after the secondary collision.

[0171] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Additions, omissions, substitutions, and other modifications can be made to the configuration without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to the foregoing description, but only to the appended claims.

[0172] For example, in the above embodiment, the configuration in which axis O1 intersects with the longitudinal direction has been described, but it is not limited to this configuration. Axis O1 may also be aligned with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0173] In the above embodiment, the tilting mechanism 100 and the telescopic mechanism 101 are described as feed screw mechanisms, but the implementation is not limited to this configuration. For example, gears may also be used for the tilting mechanism 100 and the telescopic mechanism 101.

[0174] In the above embodiments, a steering device capable of both tilting and telescopic movements has been described, but the device is not limited to this configuration. Furthermore, the tilting and telescopic movements are not limited to electric types; they can also be manual.

[0175] In the above embodiment, the configuration of the scraping member 121 having a first guide surface 145a1 and a second guide surface 145ad has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. It is sufficient to have at least one guide surface.

[0176] In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the load absorption mechanism 16 is disposed below the tube 12 has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. The load absorption mechanism 16 may also be disposed above or to the side of the tube 12.

[0177] In the above embodiments, the following configuration was described, but is not limited to: the guide pin 141 (scraping surface 141a) is provided on the tube 12 side relative to the absorber plate 120, and the guide surfaces 145a1 and 145a4 are provided on the opposite side of the tube 12 relative to the absorber plate 120. Alternatively, the configuration may be as follows: the guide pin 141 (scraping surface 141a) is provided on the opposite side of the tube 12 (the second side in the thickness direction) relative to the absorber plate 120, and the guide surfaces 145a1 and 145a4 are provided on the tube 12 side (the first side in the thickness direction) relative to the absorber plate 120.

[0178] In the above embodiments, the configuration of the absorption plate 120 with its thickness direction in the axial radial direction has been described, but it is not limited to this configuration. For example, the absorption plate 120 may also be configured with its thickness direction in the axial circumferential direction.

[0179] In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the rear end of the absorber plate 120 is hooked to the tube 12 via the engaging tab 132b has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, both ends of the absorber plate 120 in the front-rear direction may also be fixed to the tube 12.

[0180] In the above embodiment, the configuration of the extension portion 131 having a narrow portion 131a and a wide portion 131b has been described, but it is not limited to this configuration. The width of the extension portion 131 may be the same throughout the whole, or it may be a configuration that varies continuously throughout the whole, etc.

[0181] In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the ribs are connected to the bosses 40a and 45a of the mounting support 24 has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. In addition, the position and shape of the ribs can be appropriately changed.

[0182] In the above embodiments, the configuration in which the steering device 1 is suspended by the steering hanger 200 has been described, but it is not limited to this configuration.

[0183] Some or all of the steering devices involved in the above embodiments can be described as follows.

[0184] [Postscript 1] A steering device comprising: A shaft support portion extending in the longitudinal direction, and having a steering shaft with a steering wheel mounted at its rear end; and The bracket has a bracket body and a boss portion. The bracket body supports the aforementioned shaft support portion, and the boss portion protrudes from the aforementioned bracket body and is fixed to the aforementioned vehicle side mounting portion in a state facing the vehicle body side mounting portion provided on the vehicle body. The aforementioned bracket has a rib that extends in a direction intersecting the aforementioned protrusion direction from the aforementioned bracket body along the protrusion direction of the aforementioned boss portion, and is connected to the aforementioned boss portion.

[0185] Based on the configuration described in [Appendix 1], the rigidity of the bracket can be ensured, thus providing the user with a good handling feel. Furthermore, compared to situations where the overall wall thickness of the bracket is increased to ensure rigidity, the steering mechanism can be made lighter. Additionally, when the steering mechanism is equipped with an impact absorption mechanism, in the event of a secondary collision, unwanted deformation of unintended parts such as the bracket can be suppressed, and the forward movement of the axle support (collapse stroke) can be prevented. As a result, impact absorption performance is easily ensured.

[0186] [Postscript 2] [1] describes a steering device in which, The aforementioned boss and rib protrude upwards from the aforementioned bracket body. The aforementioned bracket is supported in a state of being suspended from the aforementioned vehicle body side mounting portion.

[0187] Based on the configuration described in [Appendix 2], the rigidity of the bracket in the vertical direction can be easily ensured by the ribs. This allows it to resist the vertical load components acting on the steering mechanism.

[0188] [Postscript 3] The steering device described in [1] or [2], wherein, The aforementioned bosses are arranged at intervals along the front-to-back direction. Each of the aforementioned ribs is located in one of the aforementioned protrusion portions.

[0189] Based on the configuration described in [Appendix 3], ribs are formed at multiple locations in the front-to-back direction, thereby further improving the rigidity of the bracket.

[0190] [Postscript 4] [3] describes the steering mechanism, in which, The aforementioned shaft support is supported on the aforementioned bracket body in a manner that allows it to rotate about an axis in the left-right direction. The first rib of the aforementioned ribs coincides with the aforementioned axis when viewed from the aforementioned protruding direction.

[0191] According to the configuration described in [Appendix 4], for example, when a collision load is input, the load transmitted from the steering wheel to the axle support is transmitted to the bracket via the axis. In this case, by forming the first rib at a position that coincides with the axis when viewed from the protruding direction, the bracket can be effectively strengthened.

[0192] [Postscript 5] The steering device described in [3] or [4], wherein, A tilting guide hole is formed in the portion of the aforementioned bracket body located further rearward than the aforementioned axis. This tilting guide hole extends in the vertical direction and guides the rotation of the aforementioned shaft support portion around the aforementioned axis. The second rib, which is different from the first rib mentioned above, extends toward the tilted guide hole when viewed from the aforementioned protruding direction.

[0193] According to the configuration described in [Appendix 5], for example, when a collision load is input, the load transmitted from the steering wheel to the axle support is transmitted to the bracket via the connection between the tilt guide hole and the axle support. In this case, the second rib extends toward the tilt guide hole when viewed from the protruding direction, thereby effectively strengthening the bracket.

[0194] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure, the constituent elements in the above embodiments can be appropriately replaced with well-known constituent elements, and the above variations can also be appropriately combined.

[0195] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1: Steering mechanism 11: Shell 13: Steering shaft 16: Load Absorption Mechanism 21: Tilt bracket (bracket) 22: Main body of the shell 23A, 23B: Side frame (bracket body) 24: Install the support bars (bracket body) 40a: Bossed section 40c: Posterior rib (2nd rib) 45a: Bossed section 45b: Rib (1st rib) 56: Slit 120: Absorption plate 121: Scraping parts 122: Sliding Guide 131a: Narrow section 140: Base section 141: Guide Pin 141a: Scraping the surface 145a1: First guiding surface (guiding surface) 145a2: The first retreat surface (retreat surface) 145a3: Second retreat surface (retreat surface) 145a4: Second guiding surface (guiding surface) 155: Rivet (connecting component).

Claims

1. A steering device comprising: A shaft support that supports the steering shaft in a manner that allows it to rotate about an axis along the longitudinal direction; A housing, which is supported on the vehicle body, and supports the axle support in a manner that allows it to move in the longitudinal direction; and A load-absorbing mechanism is disposed between the shaft support and the housing. The load absorption mechanism includes: An absorption plate, disposed on the shaft support portion, and extending along the shaft support portion in a front-rear direction; and The scraping component, connected to the housing, passes through the absorber plate in the front-to-back direction during a secondary impact, causing the absorber plate to undergo plastic deformation. The scraping component includes: The base portion has a guide surface disposed on a first side relative to the absorber plate in the thickness direction, and a recessed surface extending from the guide surface toward the first side in the thickness direction; and A guide pin having a scraping surface is provided in the base portion at a position opposite to the retraction surface. The scraping surface is provided on a second side in the thickness direction relative to the absorber plate and on a first side in the thickness direction relative to the guide surface.

2. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein, The absorption plate is configured such that its thickness direction is the radial direction that intersects the axis when viewed from the front-rear direction.

3. The steering device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The portion of the absorbent plate located in front of the scraping component is fixed to the shaft support. The portion of the absorbent plate located rearward relative to the scraping component is supported on the shaft support in a manner that allows it to move relative to the shaft support in the front-rear direction but not in the thickness direction.

4. The steering device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, have: A connecting component that connects the scraping component and the shaft support portion; as well as An actuator, disposed in the housing, causes the scraping component to move in the back-and-forth direction. The connecting component is configured to break under load applied between the shaft support and the connecting component during a secondary collision.

5. The steering device according to claim 4, wherein, The housing includes: A bracket, which supports the vehicle body, and is connected to the scraping component; and The housing body is supported by the bracket, and the shaft support is supported in a manner that allows it to move in the front-rear direction. A slit is formed in the housing body, the slit extending in the front-rear direction, and guiding the movement of the scraping component relative to the housing body in the front-rear direction.

6. The steering device according to claim 5, wherein, The load-absorbing mechanism includes a sliding guide that surrounds the scraping member and is formed of a material with a lower coefficient of friction than the scraping member.

7. The steering device according to claim 5, wherein, The bracket has: The bracket body supports the housing body; A boss protrudes from the bracket body and is fixed to the vehicle side mounting portion in a state facing the vehicle side mounting portion provided on the vehicle body; as well as A rib protrudes from the bracket body along the protruding direction of the boss portion and extends in a direction intersecting the protruding direction, connecting with the boss portion.

8. The steering device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, At the rear end of the absorption plate, a narrow section is formed, which is narrower than the width of the front end of the absorption plate. In the state prior to the secondary collision, the narrow section is positioned opposite to either the guide surface or the scraping surface.

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