Outer member unit and cover member

Abstract

The purpose is to protect a wire-like body extending from an additional equipment component. The exterior component unit includes an exterior component and a support member rotatably supporting the exterior component. The support member has a rotation support portion supporting rotation of the exterior component and a fixed portion fixed to a vehicle body. An opening portion for inserting a wire-like body extending from an additional equipment component mounted on the outside of the exterior component is formed in the support member. A fixed portion side opening portion is formed on the fixed portion side. A passage for the wire-like body to pass from the opening portion to the fixed portion side opening portion is formed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an exterior component unit installed on the vehicle body, and a cover component for supporting the exterior component. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a structure in which a wiring harness is embedded in a sealing strip and a main wiring harness is disposed in a door trim panel. In Patent Document 1, a connector disposed in the sealing strip is fitted with a connector disposed in the door trim panel. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-24782. Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] For example, there may be a need to support additional equipment components such as cameras and lights outdoors rather than indoors. In this case, the equipment components may sometimes be mounted on external components that can rotate between the vehicle body and the main body. In such situations, it is desirable to protect linear elements (e.g., power cables) extending from the additional equipment components.

[0005] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to protect a linear body extending from an additional device component mounted on a rotatable external component. Methods for solving problems

[0006] The disclosed external component unit is mounted on a vehicle body. The external component unit includes: an external component; and a support member that rotatably supports the external component. The support member has: a rotation support portion that supports the rotation of the external component; and a fixing portion that is fixed to the vehicle body. The support member has: an opening for inserting a linear body extending from an additional equipment component mounted on the outside of the external component; a fixing portion-side opening formed on the fixing portion side; and an insertion passage for the linear body to pass through from the opening to the fixing portion-side opening.

[0007] In addition, the cover member disclosed herein is a cover member that rotatably supports a support member of an exterior component mounted on the vehicle body. The cover member is formed with a partial opening or hole that constitutes at least a portion of an opening for inserting a linear body extending from an additional equipment component mounted on the outside of the exterior component into the space formed between the cover member and the support member. Invention Effects

[0008] According to the outer casing unit and cover member disclosed herein, it is possible to protect a linear body extending from an additional equipment component mounted on a rotatable outer casing. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a vehicle equipped with an external component unit. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the side mirror unit, additional electrical components, and additional electrical components shown from the outside of the vehicle. Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing the main body of the support member that constitutes the support member. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the cover component that constitutes the support member. Figure 5 It is a side view showing the supporting members and the wiring of the additional electrical components from the side. Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the path of the wires extending from the additional electrical components. Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the path of the wires extending from the additional electrical components. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the side rearview mirror, support structure, and wiring from above. Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the cover component and the mechanism for moving the cover component. Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the elastic cover member with the elongated opening in the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0010] [Description of embodiments of this disclosure] First, embodiments of this disclosure will be listed and described.

[0011] The external component units and cover components disclosed herein are described below.

[0012] (1) An external component unit, mounted on a vehicle body, the external component unit comprising: an external component; and a support member rotatably supporting the external component, the support member having: a rotation support portion supporting rotation of the external component; and a fixing portion fixed to the vehicle body, the support member having: an opening for inserting a linear body extending from an additional device component mounted on the outside of the external component; a fixing portion-side opening formed on the fixing portion side; and an insertion passage for the linear body to pass through the opening to the fixing portion-side opening. Thus, the linear body extending from the additional device component passes through the opening and is inserted into the insertion passage, thereby protecting the linear body extending from the additional device component.

[0013] (2) According to the external component unit described in (1), the support member may also include: a support member body having the fixing portion; and a cover member having a partial opening or hole forming at least a portion of the opening portion, wherein the cover member, when fixed to the support member body, forms the insertion passage with the support member body. Thus, the cover member can be separated from the support member body. Therefore, the linear body is easily housed inside the insertion passage.

[0014] (3) According to the external component unit described in (1) or (2), the opening may also be formed on the extension line of the rotation axis of the external component. This suppresses movement of the linear body around the rotation axis, making it less likely for the linear body to interfere with the supporting member.

[0015] (4) According to the outer component unit described in (1) or (2), the opening may also be formed at a position away from the extension line of the rotation axis of the outer component, such that it is formed along at least a portion of the trajectory of the linear body movement caused by the rotation of the outer component. This suppresses interference between the linear body and the support member caused by the linear body movement resulting from the rotation of the outer component.

[0016] (5) According to the external component unit described in (4), the support member may also include: a cover member having a through hole for the linear body to pass through; and a guide portion for guiding the movement of the cover member, such that the through hole moves within the opening as the linear body moves. This suppresses interference between the linear body and the support member caused by the movement of the linear body due to the rotation of the external component, and also suppresses water and dust from entering the insertion passage from the opening.

[0017] (6) The external component unit according to any one of (1) to (4) may also include an elastic cover member, the elastic cover member having: a cover member side fixing portion fixed to the periphery of the opening; an annular linear body support portion for supporting the linear body inserted into the opening; and a connecting portion for connecting the fixing portion and the linear body support portion along the entire circumference of the linear body. This prevents water and dust from entering the insertion passage from the opening. Furthermore, since the elastic cover member can deform along with the movement of the linear body, it can suppress sharp bending of the linear body and interference with other components.

[0018] (7) According to the external component unit described in (6), the linear support portion may be located further outward than the opening, and the connecting portion extends from the linear support portion toward the fixing portion, forming a space between the linear body and the connecting portion within the connecting portion. This allows the linear body to move freely within the connecting portion. Compared to the case where the linear body is fixed, the load borne by the linear body can be reduced.

[0019] (8) According to any one of (1) to (7), the external component unit may also be a side rearview mirror. Thus, even when the linear body extending from the additional equipment component mounted on the side rearview mirror moves with the rotation of the side rearview mirror, interference between the linear body and the support member can be suppressed.

[0020] (9) A cover member that rotatably supports a support member of an exterior component mounted on a vehicle body, the cover member having a partial opening or hole forming at least a portion of an opening for inserting a linear body extending from an additional equipment component mounted on the outside of the exterior component into a space formed between the cover member and the support member. Thus, by replacing only the cover member, interference between the linear body of the additional equipment component and the support member can be suppressed.

[0021] [Details of the embodiments disclosed herein] Specific examples of the external component units of this disclosure are described with reference to the following accompanying drawings. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, as indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0022] The following describes the external component units involved in this disclosure.

[0023] <First Implementation> <Overall Description of Vehicles Equipped with External Component Units> Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a vehicle 10 equipped with an external component unit.

[0024] Vehicle 10 has a body 12. The body 12 is the part that constitutes the outer shape of vehicle 10. The body 12 can be a monocoque body or a body mounted on a trapezoidal frame. Vehicle 10 has multiple exterior components. An exterior component refers to a component that is at least partially exposed on the vehicle 10. An exterior component unit refers to a unit that includes the exterior component and the components attached to the exterior component. Vehicle 10 has a side rearview mirror unit 20 as one of the exterior component units. In addition to the side rearview mirror unit 20, the exterior component unit can also be a door handle unit (not shown), a roof panel unit 13, a door panel unit 14, or a rear door panel unit (not shown) for placing and retrieving goods, etc.

[0025] The side rearview mirror unit 20 is mounted on the front end of the door panel unit 14 located on the front side of the vehicle 10. That is, the door panel unit 14 is a door panel unit for the driver's seat or the front passenger seat. The side rearview mirror unit 20 is mainly used for the driver to check the rear of the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, as... Figure 1 As shown, additional electrical components 30 and 40 are installed on the side rearview mirror unit 20, which is an external component of the vehicle 10, as additional equipment components. In addition, two additional electrical components (additional electrical component 30 and additional electrical component 40) are installed in this embodiment, but it can also be one additional electrical component, or more than three additional electrical components can be installed.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the side rearview mirror unit 20, additional electrical component 30, and additional electrical component 40 shown from the outside of the vehicle 10. The additional electrical component 30 and additional electrical component 40 are electrically connected to electrical equipment disposed within the vehicle body 11.

[0027] <Side Rearview Mirror Unit 20> The side rearview mirror unit 20 includes a side rearview mirror 21 as an external component and a support member 50 for supporting the side rearview mirror 21. The support member 50 rotatably supports the side rearview mirror 21.

[0028] The side rearview mirror 21 includes a mirror housing 22, a mirror (not shown), and a rotation axis 23 (see reference). Figure 6 The mirror is fixed to the mirror housing 22. Additionally, an internal space 24 is formed between the mirror housing 22 and the mirror (see reference). Figure 3 The interior space 24 houses, for example, a motor and gears (not shown). The gears are connected to the rotating shaft 23. Thus, the rotation of the motor is transmitted to the rotating shaft 23, causing the side rearview mirror 21 to change its posture by folding towards the door panel unit 14 and moving outward from the door panel unit 14. The tilt of the mirror inside the mirror housing 22 can also be adjusted by the rotation of the motor.

[0029] <Supporting Component 50> Next, the support member 50 of this disclosure will be described. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the main body 60 of the support member 50. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the cover member 70 that constitutes the support member 50. Figure 5 This is a side view showing the support member 50 together with the wires 31 and 41 of the additional electrical components 30 and 40 from the side.

[0030] The support member 50 includes a rotating support portion 61 for supporting the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21 and a fixing portion 62 fixed to the vehicle body 11. Wires 31 and 41 extending from additional electrical components 30 and 40 are inserted into the internal space of the support member 50, and the wires 31 and 41 are led out from the fixing portion side opening 65 formed on the vehicle body 11 side. The support member 50 of this embodiment includes a support member body 60 and a cover member 70. The support member body 60 and the cover member 70 are configured to be separable. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an opening 75 for inserting the wire 31 is formed on the bottom surface of the support member 50, and an elongated hole-shaped opening 52 for inserting the wire 41 is formed on the side surface of the support member 50. Additionally, in… Figure 2 , Figure 3 In the illustration, the fixing-side opening 65 is shown to be formed within the abutment surface 62a, but the structure is not limited to this. The fixing-side opening 65 may also be formed in an outwardly exposed position instead of the abutment surface 62a.

[0031] <Supporting Component Main Body 60> Next, the main body 60 of the supporting component will be described. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the support member body 60 has a rotating support portion 61 and a fixing portion 62. Furthermore, the support member body 60 has an arm portion 63 between the rotating support portion 61 and the fixing portion 62. A body-side recess 64 and a fixing-side opening 65 are formed in the support member body 60.

[0032] The rotating support 61 supports the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21. The rotating support 61 has a rotating bearing 61a. In this embodiment, the rotating bearing 61a is formed as a bottomed circular hole. The rotating support 61 has a sidewall 61b that is shaped along a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the rotating bearing 61a. The sidewall 61b protrudes axially toward the rotating bearing 61a, specifically downwards. Both ends of the sidewall 61b are connected to the ends of the sidewall 63b of the arm portion 63, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the sidewall 61b and the sidewall 63b are integrally formed. A main body side recess 64 is formed in a portion of the sidewall 61b. The main body side recess 64 is, for example, rectangular. The main body side recess 64 is, for example, formed by an upper edge portion 64a and side edge portions 64b on both sides of the upper edge portion 64a.

[0033] The cover member 70, described later, has a protrusion 73 that engages with the main body side recess 64. A partial opening 74, described later, is formed in the protrusion 73. With the protrusion 73 engaged with the main body side recess 64, an elongated opening 52 is formed by the main body side recess 64, the protrusion 73, and the partial opening 74. Specifically, the elongated opening 52 is formed by the upper edge and one vertical edge of the main body side recess 64, and the lower edge and the other vertical edge of the partial opening 74. The elongated opening can be any opening that is longer in one direction, and can be elliptical or rectangular. Furthermore, guide portions 61c are provided on both sides of the side edge 64b of the main body side recess 64 in the sidewall 61b to guide the cover member 80 (described later) covering the elongated opening 52. The guide portions 61c guide the cover member 80, allowing it to move circumferentially along the rotation axis 23.

[0034] The rotary bearing 61a rotatably supports the cylindrical rotary shaft 23 (see reference) disposed on the side rearview mirror 21. Figure 6 Additionally, a wire (not shown) extending from the motor is connected to an electrical device disposed within the vehicle body 11, for example, via a connector 51 described later. When the motor receives an electrical signal from the wire and is driven to rotate, the rotation of the motor is transmitted to the rotating shaft 23 via gears. Rotation of the rotating shaft 23 causes the side rearview mirror 21 to rotate.

[0035] The fixing part 62 is fixed to the vehicle body 11. The fixing part 62 has an abutment surface 62a that abuts against the vehicle body 11. A plurality of screw insertion holes 62b are formed in the fixing part 62. The abutment surface 62a is, for example, rectangular, and the screw insertion holes 62b are, for example, formed at the four corners of the rectangular abutment surface 62a. The abutment surface 62a abuts against the outer surface of the vehicle body 11. Screws are inserted into the upper screw insertion holes 62b and screwed into screw holes (not shown) formed in the vehicle body 11. In addition, screws that are inserted into the screw insertion holes 72 formed on the cover member 70 (described later) are inserted into the lower screw insertion holes 62b. Screws are inserted into the screw insertion holes 72 and the lower screw insertion holes 62b and screwed into screw holes (not shown) formed in the vehicle body 11. Thus, the support member body 60 and the vehicle body 11 are fixed. In addition, a fixing part side opening 65 for the insertion passage 51 (described later) is formed in the fixing part 62. The fixing part 62 is installed on the vehicle body 11 so that the fixing part side opening 65 is connected to the wire inlet (not shown) formed in the vehicle body 11.

[0036] The arm portion 63 is located between the rotating support portion 61 and the fixed portion 62. The arm portion 63 supports the rotating support portion 61 at a position relative to the fixed portion 62 away from the door panel unit 14. The arm portion 63 has an upper wall 63a and a pair of side walls 63b hanging downward from both sides of the upper wall 63a. The upper wall 63a is a wall surface that continues from the rotating bearing 61a to the fixed portion 62. The thickness of the upper wall 63a is greater than the depth of the rotating bearing 61a. The side walls 63b are also walls surfaces that continue from the rotating bearing 61a to the fixed portion 62. The pair of side walls 63b extend downward from the rotating bearing 61a toward the fixed portion 62. A box-shaped space 63c is formed by the upper wall 63a, the side walls 63b, the periphery of the rotating bearing 61a, and the fixed portion 62. The space 63c is connected to the side opening 65 of the fixed portion. The box-shaped space 63c is connected to the side recess 64 of the main body. The box-shaped space 63c extends to the upper edge 64a. In this embodiment, the lower surface of the upper wall 63a, the lower part of the rotary bearing 61a, and the upper edge 64a of the main body side recess 64 are formed to be the same plane.

[0037] <Cover component 70> Next, the cover component 70 will be described. For example... Figure 4 As shown, when the cover member 70 is fixed to the support member body 60, it forms an insertion passage 51, which will be described later, between itself and the support member body 60. The cover member 70 has a base plate portion 71 and a protrusion 73 that protrudes upward from a portion of the end edge of the base plate portion 71. The end edge of the base plate portion 71 has a shape that matches the end edges of the side walls 61b and 63b, and is a shape that closes the lower opening of the space 63c. In addition, a partial opening 74, which is smaller than the main body side recess 64, is formed in the circumferential direction of the rotation shaft 23 (rotation bearing 61a). The partial opening 74 is, for example, rectangular. The shape of the protrusion 73 is the shape of the main body side recess 64 minus the part of the partial opening 74. Thus, when the protrusion 73 is fitted into the main body side recess 64, the portion surrounded by the partial opening 74 and the main body side recess 64 becomes an elongated hole-shaped opening 52 (with the same shape as the partial opening 74). The elongated opening 52 is an opening for inserting the wire 41 into the interior of the support member 50.

[0038] In addition, the protrusion 73 has a guide portion 76 that guides the movement of the cover member 80 described later (see reference). Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 With the support member body 60 and the cover member 70 fixed, the guide portion 76 is connected to the guide portion 61c of the support member body 60. Thus, the guide portion 76 and the guide portion 61c cooperate to guide the cover member 80.

[0039] Additionally, an opening 75 is formed in the base plate portion 71. The opening 75 is for inserting the wire 31 into the interior of the support member 50. The opening 75 is formed at the axis of rotation of the side rearview mirror 21 (axis C of the rotation axis 23 (see reference)). Figure 5 On the extension line of the opening 75, the movement of the wire 31 inserted from the opening 75 around the rotation axis 23 can be suppressed.

[0040] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cover member 70 can be detached from the support member body 60. Therefore, for example, it can be replaced with a cover member that does not have the partial openings 74 and 75 formed. That is, a cover member without the elongated hole-shaped openings 52 and 75 is installed when the additional electrical components 30 and 40 are not installed. In this case, since there are no openings, there is no problem of water or dust entering the support member 50 from the openings. Moreover, when the additional electrical components 30 and 40 are installed, the originally installed cover member is replaced with the cover member 70. At this time, the wires 31 and 41 are housed between the support member body 60 and the cover member 70. In this way, the wires 31 and 41 can also be protected by the support member 50.

[0041] <Fixing of the main support component 60 and the cover component 70> The support member body 60 and the cover member 70 are fixed together to form the support member 50. With the support member body 60 and the cover member 70 fixed, the protrusion 73 engages with the recess 64 on the body side. Furthermore, the base plate 71 abuts against the side walls 61b and 63b. For example, adhesive tape, fasteners, screws, or interlocking mechanisms can be used to fix the support member body 60 and the cover member 70. For instance, a protrusion can be formed at the abutment of the support member body 60 with the cover member 70, and a recess can be formed at the abutment of the cover member 70 with the support member body 60; the support member body 60 and the cover member 70 are fixed by the engagement of these protrusions and recesses.

[0042] With the support member body 60 and the cover member 70 fixed, an elongated opening 52 is formed. The elongated opening 52 is an opening that guides the wire 41 of the additional electrical component 40 into the interior of the support member 50 (see reference). Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the elongated opening 52 is formed at the axis of rotation of the side rearview mirror 21 (the axis C of the rotation axis 23 is referenced). Figure 5The position of departure on the extended line. Furthermore, the elongated opening 52 is formed to extend along the trajectory of the wire 41 as it moves with the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21. The elongated opening 52 is relatively long along at least a portion of the trajectory of the wire 41. With a portion of the wire 41 held in a fixed position by the wire fixing part 54 of the support member 50 and the wire fixing part 44 of the additional electrical component 40, when the side rearview mirror 21 rotates, the trajectory of the wire 41 at the elongated opening 52 is imagined (see...). Figure 8 The elongated opening 52 is formed to extend along this trajectory. Therefore, even if the wire 41 moves, interference between the wire 41 and the support member 50 can be avoided. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the elongated opening 52 is formed along the trajectory of the wire 41's movement caused by the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21, but it is not limited to this. The elongated opening 52 may also be formed on at least a portion of the trajectory of the wire 41's movement caused by the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21. Even with such a structure, interference between the wire 41 and the support member 50 can be suppressed.

[0043] Furthermore, with the cover member 70 fixed to the main body of the support member, an insertion passage 51 is formed between the cover member 70 and the main body of the support member 60.

[0044] The insertion passage 51 is formed by the aforementioned box-shaped space 63c and the cover member 70. The insertion passage 51 is a cavity from the elongated opening 52 to the fixing part side opening 65, and a cavity from the opening 75 to the fixing part side opening 65.

[0045] like Figure 5 As shown, the wire 31 inserted from the opening 75 passes through the insertion passage 51 to reach the fixing part side opening 65. The wire 31 that reaches the fixing part side opening 65 is guided into the vehicle body 11 for the fixing part 62 to abut. Similarly, the wire 41 inserted from the elongated hole-shaped opening 52 passes through the insertion passage 51 to reach the fixing part side opening 65. The wire 31 that reaches the fixing part side opening 65 is guided into the vehicle body 11 for the fixing part 62 to abut. With this structure, the wire 31 of the additional electrical component 30 is connected to the electrical equipment in the vehicle body 11 through the inside of the support member 50. Similarly, the wire 41 of the additional electrical component 40 is connected to the electrical equipment in the vehicle body 11 through the inside of the support member 50. Since the wires 31 and 41 pass through the inside of the support member 50 (insertion passage 51), the portion of the wires 31 and 41 exposed to the outside of the vehicle 10 can be reduced.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the support member 50 is composed of two components: a support member body 60 and a cover member 70, which are separable from each other. Therefore, when inserting the wires 31 and 41 into the inside of the support member 50, the cover member 70 can be removed from the support member body 60 for this purpose. Thus, the storage of the wires 31 and 41 inside the support member 50 is easy.

[0047] <Path of wire 31 for additional electrical component 30> Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the path of the wire 31 extending from the additional electrical component 30. The additional electrical component 30 is mounted on the side rearview mirror 21, which is an external component. The additional electrical component 30 covers a portion of the side and the lower portion of the mirror housing 22 of the side rearview mirror 21. The additional electrical component 30 includes a cover 32, a camera unit 33 as an electrical device, and a wire 31 extending from the camera unit 33. In this embodiment, the camera unit 33 is used as the electrical device, but it is not limited to this. As an electrical device, obstacles detection sensors such as lamps or ultrasonic sensors may also be used.

[0048] The inner side of the cover 32 faces a portion of the side and lower side of the side mirror 21. The cover 32 is disposed between the inner side and the side mirror 21 with a gap. Therefore, the camera unit 33 and the wire 31 can be disposed between the inner side and the side mirror 21. The inner side of the cover 32 is formed, for example, along the shape of the portion of the side mirror 21 facing the inner side. The shape along the shape means, for example, a shape separated from the shape of the outer surface by a certain thickness, that is, a shape similar to the shape of the outer surface. The additional electrical component 30 is fixed to the side mirror 21, for example, by double-sided tape adhered to the inner side. In addition to tape, the fixing structure between the additional electrical component 30 and the side mirror 21 can also be a concave-convex fitting, a suction cup, or an adhesive.

[0049] A protrusion 34 is formed on the end edge of the support member 50 side of the inner surface of the cover 32, facing the side rearview mirror 21. A through hole 35 is formed in the protrusion 34. The through hole 35 extends through the inside and outside of the base end of the protrusion 34. Alternatively, a groove may be formed in the protrusion 34 instead of a through hole 35.

[0050] The wire 31, extending from the camera unit 33, extends along the inner side towards the through hole 35. The wire 31 may be fixed to the inner side using tape or adhesive, or it may not be fixed. The wire 31 extends through the through hole 35 to the outside of the cover portion 32. The wire 31 extending outward through the through hole 35 is inserted into the opening 75 formed on the bottom surface of the support member 50 (the bottom plate portion 71 of the cover member 70). The wire 31 extends from the opening 75 through the insertion passage 51 and outward from the fixing portion side opening 65. The wire 31 extending from the fixing portion side opening 65 is guided into the vehicle body 11 and connected to electrical equipment within the vehicle body 11. Furthermore, in this embodiment, tubular elastic protective members 36 are installed before and after the wire 31 passing through the opening 75. The wire 31 is protected by the elastic protective members 36. The elastic protective members 36 may also have an outer periphery that blocks the opening 75. In this case, it is also possible to prevent water and dust from entering the insertion passage 51 from the opening 75. Furthermore, the tubular protective member installed before and after the wire 31 passing through the opening 75 is not limited to an elastic member. A tubular resin protective member can also be used instead of the elastic protective member 36 of this embodiment. In addition, to improve the protection effect of the wire 31, the material of the protective member preferably has the same rigidity as the surrounding resin. Moreover, such a protective member can also be formed using the same material and the same mold (integral molding) in a continuous state with the additional electrical component 30. Moreover, such a protective member can also be installed on the additional electrical component 30. In this way, by integrally molding the protective member and installing it on the additional electrical component 30, the exposed portion of the wire 31 can be reduced. In this state, by inserting the wire 31 into the opening 75, the protection effect of the wire 31 can be improved.

[0051] <Path of wire 41 for additional electrical component 40> Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the path of the wire 41 extending from the additional electrical component 40. The additional electrical component 40, like the additional electrical component 30, is mounted on the side rearview mirror 21, which is an external component. The additional electrical component 40 covers a portion of the side and the upper portion of the mirror housing 22 of the side rearview mirror 21. The additional electrical component 40 includes a cover 42, a camera unit 43 as an electrical device, and a wire 41 extending from the camera unit 43. In this embodiment, the camera unit 43 is used as the electrical device, but it is not limited to this. Obstacle detection sensors, such as lights or ultrasonic sensors, can also be used as electrical devices.

[0052] The inner side of the cover 42 faces a portion of the side and the upper part of the side mirror 21. The cover 42 is disposed between the inner side and the side mirror 21 with a gap. Therefore, the camera unit 43 and the wire 41 can be disposed between the inner side and the side mirror 21. The inner side of the cover 42 is formed, for example, along the shape of the portion of the side mirror 21 facing the inner side. The shape along the shape means, for example, a shape separated from the shape of the outer shape by a certain thickness, that is, a shape similar to the shape of the outer shape. The additional electrical component 40 is fixed to the side mirror 21, for example, by double-sided tape adhered to the inner side. In addition to tape, the fixing structure between the additional electrical component 40 and the side mirror 21 can also be a concave-convex fitting, a suction cup, or an adhesive.

[0053] A wire 41 extending from the camera unit 43 extends along the inner side. The wire 41 may be fixed to the inner side using tape or adhesive, or it may not be fixed. The wire 41 extends from the end edge of the cover 32 outwards from the cover 42. The wire 31 extending outwards from the cover 42 is inserted into an elongated opening 52 formed on the side of the support member 50. The wire 41 extends from the elongated opening 52 through an insertion passage 51 and outwards from the fixing-side opening 65. The wire 31 extending from the fixing-side opening 65 is guided into the vehicle body 11 and connected to electrical equipment within the vehicle body 11.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the side rearview mirror 21, support member 50, and wire 41 from above. Figure 8 The diagram shows the change in the path of the wire 41 before and after the side rearview mirror 21 is rotated. (See diagram for example.) Figure 8 As shown, the side rearview mirror 21 rotates between position A and position B by rotating the rotation axis 23.

[0055] As the side rearview mirror 21 rotates, the wire 41 moves between the elongated openings 52. When the side rearview mirror 21 is positioned in position A, the wire 41 is located at end 52a within the elongated opening 52. Conversely, when the side rearview mirror 21 is positioned in position B, the wire 41 is located at the other end 52b within the elongated opening 52. The wire 41 moves only between the elongated opening 52 and end 52a as the side rearview mirror 21 rotates. Figure 8 Move within the range R shown.

[0056] Here, assuming that no opening such as the elongated opening 52 is formed along the trajectory of the wire's movement at the insertion point of the wire 41 in the support member 50, the movement of the wire 41 is restricted, which may cause a burden on the wire 41 due to interference with the support member 50. In contrast, within the range of the elongated opening 52, the wire 41 can move freely, thus reducing the burden on the wire 41 caused by interference with the support member 50.

[0057] <Cover Component 80> Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the cover member 80 and the mechanism for moving the cover member 80. In this embodiment, the cover member 80 includes a cover that blocks the elongated orifice-shaped opening 52. Figure 5 as well as Figure 9 As shown, the cover member 80 is a plate-shaped member having a lengthwise orientation in the circumferential direction of the rotation axis 23. The cover member 80 has a through hole 81 through which the power supply line 41 passes. The cover member 80 is guided by guide portions 61c and 76 formed inside the elongated opening 52. Guide portions 61c and 76 have grooves 53. The lower end of the cover member 80 is received within the groove 53. Thus, the cover member 80 can slide on the guide portions 61c and 76. The upper end of the cover member 80 moves, for example, while abutting against the upper edge 64a and upper wall 63a of the support member body 60. In addition, this embodiment includes a cover member 80 that blocks the elongated opening 52, but it is not limited to this. A structure without a cover member 80 is also possible. Furthermore, a structure without the guide portions 61c and 76 of the cover member 80 is also possible.

[0058] When wire 41 Figure 8 During the movement shown, the through hole 81 moves within the elongated opening 52 along with the movement of the wire 41. That is, the cover member 80 moves on the guide portion 61c and the guide portion 76, causing the through hole 81 to displace. The length of the cover member 80 in the longitudinal direction is such that it can move through the through hole 81 from... Figure 8 During the movement from end 52a to end 52b, the elongated opening 52 is sealed. Specifically, the preferred length is such that when the through hole 81 is located at end 52a, the cover member 80 can seal the elongated opening 52 until it reaches end 52b; and when the through hole 81 is located at end 52b, the cover member 80 can seal the elongated opening 52 until it reaches end 52a. By providing such a cover member 80, water and dust can be prevented from entering the insertion passage 51 from the elongated opening 52.

[0059] <Second Implementation> Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the elastic cover member 280 of the elongated opening 52 in the second embodiment.

[0060] In this embodiment, an elastic cover member 280 is installed in the elongated opening 52, either as a replacement for the cover member 80 or based on the cover member 80. The elastic cover member 280 is formed of an elastic material. For example, an elastic elastomer such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) can be used as the material for the elastic cover member 280. The elastic cover member 280 has a fixing part (elastic cover side fixing part) 281, a wire support part 282 for supporting the wire 41, and a connecting part 283 connecting the fixing part 281 and the wire support part 282.

[0061] The fixing part 281 is fixed to the periphery of the elongated opening 52. The fixing part 281 has a cylindrical shape along the periphery of the elongated opening 52. In addition, a recessed part 281a is formed around the entire circumference of the fixing part 281. Furthermore, a stepped part 64c is formed on the upper edge 64a of the main body side recess 64 constituting the elongated opening 52, following the shape of the recessed part 281a of the fixing part 281. Thus, the stepped part 64c and part of the opening 74 fit into the recessed part 281a.

[0062] The wire support portion 282 is formed in a ring shape. The wire support portion 282 supports the wire 41 inserted into the elongated opening 52. The wire support portion 282 is located outside the support member 50, beyond the elongated opening 52. However, the structure is not limited to the wire support portion 282 being located outside the elongated opening 52. It could also be located inside the elongated opening 52.

[0063] The connecting portion 283 connects the fixing portion 281 and the wire support portion 282 along the entire circumference of the wire 41. The connecting portion 283 extends from the wire support portion 282 toward the fixing portion 281. The connecting portion 283 extends from the wire support portion 282 toward the fixing portion 281, for example, in a skirt-like shape. Within the connecting portion 283, a space S is formed between the wire 41 and the connecting portion 283. The wire 41 can move freely within this space S.

[0064] like Figure 10 As shown by the double-dotted line, when the wire 41 moves along with the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21, the elastic cover member 280 also deforms along with the deformation of the wire 41. This suppresses sharp bending of the wire 41 and direct interference between the wire and the edge of the elongated opening 52 of the support member 50. Therefore, the load on the wire 41 can be reduced. Furthermore, the wire 41 can move within the wire support 282 and the connecting portion 283. Therefore, compared to a structure where the wire is supported in a fixed position by the wire support, most of the wire can easily deform following the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21. Therefore, localized deformation of the wire 41 can be suppressed.

[0065] <Effects, etc.> The side rearview mirror unit 20 configured as described above includes a side rearview mirror 21 and a support member 50 that rotatably supports the side rearview mirror 21. The support member 50 has a rotating support portion 61 that supports the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21 and a fixing portion 62 that is fixed to the vehicle body 11. The support member 50 has: an opening 75 (elongated hole-shaped opening 52) for inserting wires 31 and 41 that extend from additional electrical components 30 and 40, which are additional equipment components installed on the outside of the side rearview mirror 21, in a wire-like state; a fixing portion side opening 65 formed on the fixing portion 62 side; and a insertion passage 51 through which the power supply wires 31 and 41 are inserted from the opening 75 (elongated hole-shaped opening 52) to the fixing portion side opening 65. Therefore, the wires 31 and 41 are housed in the insertion passage 51, which can protect the wires 31 and 41 that extend from the additional electrical components 30 and 40.

[0066] Furthermore, the support member 50 includes: a support member body 60 having a fixing portion 62; and a cover member 70 having a partial opening 74 or hole (opening 75) that constitutes at least a portion of the opening 75 (elongated hole-shaped opening 52). When fixed to the support member body 60, the cover member 70 forms an insertion passage 51 between itself and the support member body 60. Thus, the cover member 70 can be separated from the support member body 60. Therefore, when new electrical components 30 and 40 are installed on the side rearview mirror 21, the wires 31 and 41 can be stored inside the insertion passage 51 while the cover member 70 is detached from the support member body 60. Therefore, storing the wires 31 and 41 inside the insertion passage 51 is easy.

[0067] Furthermore, the opening 75 is formed on the extension line of the rotation axis C of the side rearview mirror 21. Therefore, the wire 31 is less susceptible to the effects of rotation near the opening 75. Thus, movement of the wire 31 caused by the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21 can be suppressed.

[0068] Furthermore, the elongated opening 52 is formed at a position away from the extension line of the rotation axis C of the side rearview mirror 21, such that at least a portion of the trajectory of the wire moving as the side rearview mirror 21 rotates is along the path. Therefore, the wire 41 can move within the elongated opening 52 as the side rearview mirror 21 rotates. This reduces interference between the wire 41 and the support member 50.

[0069] Furthermore, the side rearview mirror unit 20 also includes: a cover member 80 having a through hole 81 through which the power supply line 41 passes; and guide portions 61c and 76 that guide the movement of the cover member 80, causing the through hole 81 to move within the elongated opening 52 as the power supply line 41 moves. Thus, the through hole 81 can move within the elongated opening 52 along with the movement of the power supply line 41. Therefore, not only can the power supply line 41 move with the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21, but the portion of the power supply line 41 other than its passage portion can be covered. Therefore, interference between the power supply line 41 and the support member 50 can be reduced, and water and dust can be prevented from entering the insertion passage 51 from the elongated opening 52.

[0070] Furthermore, the side rearview mirror unit 20 also includes an elastic cover member 280, which has: a fixing part 281 fixed to the periphery of the elongated opening 52; an annular wire support part 282 supporting the wire 41 inserted into the elongated opening 52; and a connecting part 283 connecting the fixing part 281 and the wire support part 282 along the entire circumference of the wire 41. This prevents water and dust from entering the insertion passage 51 from the elongated opening 52. In addition, the elastic cover member 280 can deform with the movement of the wire 41. Therefore, it can suppress bending of the wire and interference between the wire and other components.

[0071] Furthermore, the wire support portion 282 is located further outward than the elongated opening portion 52, and the connecting portion 283 extends from the wire support portion 282 toward the fixing portion 281, forming a space between the wire 41 and the connecting portion 283 within the connecting portion 283. This allows the wire to move freely within the connecting portion 283. Compared to the case where the wire 41 is fixed, this reduces the load borne by the wire 41.

[0072] In addition, the external component is the side rearview mirror 21. Therefore, even when the wires 31 and 41 extending from the additional electrical components 30 and 40 installed on the side rearview mirror 21 move with the rotation of the side rearview mirror 21, interference between the wires 31 and 41 and the support member 50 can be suppressed.

[0073] Furthermore, the cover member 70 configured as described above is a cover member 70 that rotatably supports the support member 50 of the side rearview mirror 21 mounted on the vehicle body 11. The cover member 70 has a partial opening 74 or hole (opening 75) that constitutes at least a portion of the opening 75 (elongated opening 52). The opening 75 (elongated opening 52) is used to insert wires 31, 41 extending from additional electrical components 30, 40 mounted on the outside of the side rearview mirror 21 into the space formed between the cover member 70 and the support member 50. Thus, mainly by replacing the cover member 70, interference between the wires 31, 41 of the additional electrical components 30, 40 and the support member 50 can be suppressed.

[0074] <Variation Example> The side rearview mirror 21 described above is rotatably supported relative to the support member 50, but is not limited to this structure. The side rearview mirror 21 may also be fixed to the support member 50. Furthermore, the side rearview mirror 21 described above is capable of rotating via a motor, but is not limited to this structure. The side rearview mirror 21 may also be capable of rotating manually.

[0075] In the above embodiment, a structure is adopted in which an elongated hole-shaped opening 52 is formed in the support member 50, but it is not limited to this. As long as the degree of interference between the wire 41 and the support member 50 (the degree to which the wire can move) is suppressed, for example, a circular, elliptical, wavy, or polygonal opening can be formed.

[0076] Furthermore, while the above embodiment employs a structure in which an elongated opening 52 is formed on the side of the support member 50, it is not limited to this. The elongated opening 52 may also be formed on the bottom surface of the support member 50 (the bottom plate portion 71 of the cover member 70). In this case, the elongated opening is simply a structure in which only a hole is formed in the cover member 70. Even with this arrangement of the elongated opening 52, interference between the wire 41 and the support member 50 can be suppressed.

[0077] In addition, in the above embodiment, the support member 50 is provided with an elongated hole-shaped opening 52 and an opening 75, but either one may be provided.

[0078] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, there is a structure in which two additional electrical components 30 and 40 are installed on the side rearview mirror 21, but it is not limited to this. It is also possible to have a structure in which one additional electrical component is installed on the side rearview mirror 21, or to have a structure in which three or more additional electrical components are installed.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the additional electrical component 30 is installed on the side rearview mirror 21, but it is not limited to this. The additional electrical component 30 may also be installed on the door handle. For example, the additional electrical component 30 may be installed on the outward-facing side of the door handle. As the electrical device for the additional electrical component 30, an obstacle detection sensor such as an ultrasonic sensor may also be used.

[0080] Furthermore, in the second embodiment described above, an elastic cover member 280 is used, in which a space is formed between the wire 41 and the connecting portion 283 within the connecting portion 283, but this is not a limitation. It is also possible for the wire 41 to be supported by the elastic cover member from the wire support portion to the fixing portion. That is, no space is formed between the wire 41 and the elastic cover member within the elastic cover member. Even with such a structure, the elastic cover member deforms along with the bending of the wire 41. Therefore, bending of the wire 41 and interference between the wire 41 and the support member 50 can be suppressed.

[0081] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, additional electrical components 30 and 40 are used as additional equipment components, and wires 31 and 41 are used as linear bodies, but the embodiments are not limited to this. Components that utilize linear bodies to perform mechanical actions can also be used as additional equipment components. Additionally, non-conductive wires or ropes can be used as linear bodies, for example. Moreover, such non-conductive wires, etc., are preferably flexible in order to enable the additional equipment components to perform mechanical actions.

[0082] Furthermore, the structures described in the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately modified as long as they do not contradict each other. Symbol Explanation

[0083] 10 vehicles 11 Vehicle body 12 Body 13 Roof Panel Units 14 Door Panel Units 20 side rearview mirror units 21 Side rearview mirrors 22. Mirror housing 23 Rotation axis 24 Interior Space 30. Additional electrical components 31 Wire 32 Cover section 33 camera units 34. Protrusion 35 Through Hole 36. Elastic protective components 40. Additional electrical components 41 Wire 42 Cover section 43 camera units 44. Cable fixing part 50 Supporting components 51 Insertion Path 52. Elongated opening 52a end 52b end 53. Groove 54. Cable fixing part 60 Supporting Components Main Body 61 Rotary support section 61a Rotary Bearing 61b sidewall 61c Guidance Section 62 Fixing part 62a Abutment Surface 62b screw through hole 63 Arm 63a upper wall 63b sidewall 63c space 64. Main body side recess 64a Upper edge 64b Lateral edge 64c Step section 65. Side opening of the fixing part 70 Cover Components 71. Base Plate 72 Screw Through Hole 73. Protrusion 74 Partial openings 75 Opening 76 Guiding Department 80 Cover components 81 Through the hole 280 Elastic Shield Component 281 Fixing part 281a Recess 282 Cable support section 283 Connecting Part C axis R range S-space.

Claims

1. An external component unit, installed on the vehicle body, The external component unit includes: External components; and A support member that rotatably supports the external component. The support member includes: a rotating support portion for supporting the rotation of the external component; and a fixing portion for fixing to the vehicle body. The support member has the following features: An opening for inserting inside a linear body extending from an additional device component mounted on the outside of the outer casing; An opening is formed on the fixing part side; and An insertion passage is provided for the linear body to be inserted from the opening to the side opening of the fixing part.

2. The external component unit according to claim 1, wherein, The supporting member has: The main body of the supporting component has the aforementioned fixing part; as well as A cover member having a partial opening or hole that constitutes at least a portion of the opening, wherein the cover member, when fixed to the support member body, forms the insertion passage between the cover member and the support member body.

3. The external component unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The opening is formed on the extension line of the axis of rotation of the outer component.

4. The external component unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The opening is formed at a position away from the extension line of the axis of rotation of the outer component, in such a way that it is formed along at least a portion of the trajectory of the movement of the linear body caused by the rotation of the outer component.

5. The external component unit according to claim 4, wherein, The supporting member also includes: The cover member has a through hole for the linear body to pass through; and The guide portion guides the movement of the cover member, causing the through hole to move within the opening as the linear body moves.

6. The external component unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The external component unit also includes an elastic cover member, which has: a cover member side fixing part, fixed to the periphery of the opening; an annular linear body support part, supporting the linear body inserted into the opening; and a connecting part, connecting the fixing part and the linear body support part in the entire circumference of the linear body.

7. The external component unit according to claim 6, wherein, The linear support portion is located on the outer side of the opening. The connecting portion extends from the linear support portion toward the fixing portion. Within the connecting portion, a space is formed between the linear body and the connecting portion.

8. The external component unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The external component is a side rearview mirror.

9. A cover member, which is a cover member that rotatably supports an external component mounted on the main body of a vehicle. The cover member has a partial opening or hole that forms at least a portion of the opening, the opening being used to insert a linear body extending from an additional equipment component mounted on the outside of the outer casing into the space formed between the cover member and the support member.

Images