Handle switch

Abstract

The utility model provides a handle switch which ensures operability of the switch and is easy to miniaturize. A handle switch is provided with a switch housing (60) provided to a handle (21) of a vehicle (10) and a first switch (90) supported by the switch housing (60), and is characterized in that the switch housing (60) is provided with a protrusion (73), the first switch (90) is a switch provided with a hinge mechanism (92), and when viewed in the operation direction of the first switch (90), the protrusion (73) protrudes from the first switch (90). The hinge mechanism (92) of the first switch (90) overlaps the projection (73).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a handle switch. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, in saddle-type vehicles, handle switches provided on the handlebars were known (for example, see Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for miniaturizing the switch housing of the handle switch while ensuring the operability of the added switch in the handle switch.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-179753 Utility Model Content

[0006] The problem to be solved by the utility model

[0007] However, in the handle switch described in Patent Document 1, there is room for improvement in maintaining the size of the switch button while also considering the operability and compactness of the handle switch.

[0008] This invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a handle switch that is easy to achieve a compact design while ensuring the operability of the switch.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] This specification contains the full contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-013386, filed on January 31, 2023.

[0011] A handle switch comprises a switch housing disposed on a handle of a vehicle and a first switch supported on the switch housing, characterized in that a protrusion is provided in the switch housing, and the first switch is a switch having a hinge mechanism, wherein when viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the hinge mechanism of the first switch overlaps with the protrusion.

[0012] Utility Model Effect

[0013] It can provide a compact handle switch that is easy to implement while ensuring operability. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment of this utility model.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a rear view of the area around the handlebars of a saddle-mounted vehicle.

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of the main parts.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a left view of the left handle switch of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the left handle switch of the first embodiment, viewed from the rear and above.

[0019] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A sectional view along line VI-VI.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the left handle switch of the second embodiment, viewed from the rear and above.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a left view of the left handle switch in the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The embodiments of this utility model will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the description, unless otherwise specified, directions such as front, back, left, right, and up / down are assumed to be the same as the directions relative to the vehicle body. Additionally, in each figure, the numeral "front" indicates the front of the vehicle body, the numeral "up" indicates the top of the vehicle body, and the numeral "left" indicates the left side of the vehicle body.

[0023] [Implementation Method]

[0024] Figure 1 This is a side view of the saddle-type vehicle 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] The saddle-type vehicle 10 is a vehicle comprising the following parts: a frame 11, a power unit 12 supported on the frame 11, a front fork 14 supporting the front wheel 13 for steering, a swing arm 16 supporting the rear wheel 15, and a seat 17 for the passenger.

[0026] The saddle-riding vehicle 10 is a vehicle in which the occupant sits on the seat 17 in a straddling manner. The seat 17 is located above the rear of the frame 11.

[0027] The frame 11 includes: a front riser tube 18 disposed at the front end of the frame 11, a front frame 19 located behind the front riser tube 18, and a rear frame 20 located behind the front frame 19. The front end of the front frame 19 is connected to the front riser tube 18.

[0028] Seat 17 is supported by rear frame 20.

[0029] The front fork 14 is supported by the front seat tube 18 for easy left and right steering. The front wheel 13 is supported on an axle 13a located at the lower end of the front fork 14. A handlebar 21 for steering, held by the rider, is mounted on the upper end of the front fork 14.

[0030] The swing arm 16 is supported by a pivot 22 supported on the frame 11. The pivot 22 is a horizontally extending shaft in the vehicle width direction. The pivot 22 is inserted through the front end of the swing arm 16. The swing arm 16 swings up and down around the pivot 22.

[0031] The rear wheel 15 is supported on an axle 15a located at the rear end of the swing arm 16.

[0032] The power unit 12 is positioned between the front wheel 13 and the rear wheel 15 and is supported on the frame 11.

[0033] The power unit 12 is an internal combustion engine. The power unit 12 includes a crankcase 23 and a cylinder section 24 that houses a reciprocating piston. The exhaust port of the cylinder section 24 is connected to an exhaust device 25.

[0034] The output of the power unit 12 is transmitted to the rear wheel 15 through the drive force transmission component that connects the power unit 12 and the rear wheel 15.

[0035] In addition, the saddle-type vehicle 10 has: a front fender 26 that covers the front wheel 13 from above, a rear fender 27 that covers the rear wheel 15 from above, a footrest 28 for the occupant to place their feet, and a fuel tank 29 for storing fuel used by the power unit 12.

[0036] The front fender 26 is mounted on the front fork 14. The rear fender 27 and footpeg 28 are positioned below the seat 17. The fuel tank 29 is supported on the frame 11.

[0037] A headlight unit 30 is supported on the front fork 14. An instrument display device 31 is disposed above the headlight unit 30. The instrument display device 31 is covered from the front by an instrument visor 32.

[0038] Figure 2 This is a rear view of the area surrounding the handlebar 21 of the saddle-type vehicle 10.

[0039] The top beam 14a of the front fork 14 is located behind the instrument display device 31. A pair of left and right handlebar supports 33 are provided on the top beam 14a. A main switch for inserting a key 34 is provided between the left and right handlebar supports 33.

[0040] A handle 21 is supported on the handle support 33. In this embodiment, the handle 21 is a cylindrical operating handle that extends in the left-right direction. The handle 21 has: a central handle portion 21a, which is fixed to the handle support 33; a right handle portion 21b, which extends in a straight line from the central handle portion 21a to the right; and a left handle portion 21c, which extends in a straight line from the central handle portion 21a to the left.

[0041] A cylindrical right grip 41 extending in the left-right direction is installed on the right handlebar portion 21b. The right grip 41 is installed on the right handlebar portion 21b via a throttle tube (not shown). The left end (inner end in the left-right direction) 41a of the right grip 41 is enlarged. A right handlebar switch 42, supporting the throttle tube for rotation, is arranged on the left side (inner side in the left-right direction) of the right grip 41. The right handlebar switch 42 is arranged adjacent to the left end 41a of the right grip 41. The right handlebar switch 42 is fixed to the right handlebar portion 21b. In this embodiment, the right handlebar switch 42 is provided with a start switch 42a, an engine stop switch 42b, and a hazard switch 42c. A right lever bracket 43 is arranged on the left side of the right handlebar switch 42. The right lever bracket 43 is arranged adjacent to the left end of the right handlebar switch 42. The right lever bracket 43 is fixed to the right handlebar portion 21b. The master cylinder 45, the brake lever 46, and the right rearview mirror 47 are supported on the right lever bracket 43. In other words, the master cylinder 45, brake lever 46, and right rearview mirror 47 are supported on the right handlebar 21b via the right lever bracket 43.

[0042] A cylindrical left grip 51 extending in the left-right direction is installed on the left handlebar portion 21c. The right end (inner end in the left-right direction) 51a of the left grip 51 is widened. A left handlebar switch 52 is arranged on the right side (inner side in the left-right direction) of the left grip 51. The left handlebar switch 52 is arranged adjacent to the right end 51a of the left grip 51. The left handlebar switch 52 is fixed to the left handlebar portion 21c. In this embodiment, the left handlebar switch 52 is provided with a turn indicator switch 110, a horn switch 100, a turn switch 80, etc. A left lever bracket 53 is arranged on the right side of the left handlebar switch 52. The left lever bracket 53 is arranged adjacent to the right end of the left handlebar switch 52. The left lever bracket 53 is fixed to the left handlebar portion 21c. The clutch lever 56 and the left rearview mirror 57 are supported on the left lever bracket 53. In other words, the clutch lever 56 and the left rearview mirror 57 are supported on the left handlebar portion 21c via the left lever bracket 53.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the right grip 41 and the left grip 51 are configured to be heated and are equipped with grip heaters. Correspondingly, a grip heater switch 51b is provided at the right end 51a of the left grip 51 to switch the grip heaters of the right grip 41 and the left grip 51 on and off.

[0044] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of the main parts. Figure 3 This indicates the area surrounding the left handle switch 52. Figure 4 This is a left view of the left handle switch 52 of the first embodiment. Figure 4 The image shows a detailed axial view taken along the central axis of the handle 21, specifically an axial view of the left handle portion 21c.

[0045] The left-hand handle switch (handle switch) 52 has a switch housing 60 that supports switches 80, 90, 100, 110, and 120. The switch housing 60 is made of, for example, resin. Figure 4 As shown, the switch housing 60 of this embodiment has a front-to-back split structure, having a rear housing 61 recessed to the rear (seat 17 side) and a front housing 65 recessed to the front (side away from the seat 17). The rear housing 61 and the front housing 65 clamp and secure the left handle portion 21c from the front-to-back direction, thereby fixing the switch housing 60 to the left handle portion 21c. That is, the left handle switch 52 is fixed to the left handle portion 21c of the handle 21.

[0046] In detail, the rear housing 61 has: an outer peripheral wall 62 that is curved in a generally semi-circular arc along the circumference of the left handle portion 21c; an outer side wall 63 formed at the outer ends of the outer peripheral wall 62 in the left-right direction; and an inner side wall 64 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 5 The handle storage portions 63a and 64a are formed at the inner ends of the outer peripheral wall 62 in the left and right directions. The outer sidewall 63 and the inner sidewall 64 are formed with handle storage portions 63a and 64a that are cut backward into a roughly semi-circular arc shape.

[0047] Similarly, the front housing 65 has: an outer peripheral wall 66 that is curved in a generally semi-circular arc along the circumference of the left handle portion 21c; an outer side wall 67 formed at the outer end in the left-right direction of the outer peripheral wall 66; and an inner side wall 68 formed at the inner end in the left-right direction of the outer peripheral wall 66. Handle receiving portions 67a and 68a, which are generally arc-shaped and cut forward, are formed on the outer side wall 67 and the inner side wall 68.

[0048] With the left handle portion 21c housed in the handle receiving portions 63a and 64a of the rear housing 61 and the handle receiving portions 67a and 68a of the front housing 65, the rear housing 61 and the front housing 65 are fastened by bolts (not shown) extending in the front-rear direction. This maintains the state in which the rear housing 61 and the front housing 65 clamp the left handle portion 21c, and the switch housing 60 is fixed to the left handle portion 21c. Furthermore, a positioning pin 69 protruding toward the left handle portion 21c is provided in the front housing 65. The positioning pin 69 engages, for example, with a hole (not shown) formed in the left handle portion 21c, thereby positioning and preventing rotation of the switch housing 60 relative to the left handle portion 21c. However, the fixing of the handle 21 to the left handle switch 52 is not limited to the example described above.

[0049] In the following description, "radial" refers to the radial direction of the handle 21. That is, since the handle 21 is a cylindrical operating handle, the center of the cylindrical shape in the cross-section of the handle 21 is referred to as the center O21 of the handle 21. Furthermore, "radial inward" refers to the side of the handle 21 facing the center O21 in its cross-section. And "radial outward" refers to the side of the handle 21 away from the center O21 in its cross-section.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the left handle switch 52 of the first embodiment, viewed from the rear and upper view. Figure 5 The left handlebar switch 52, as shown in the driver's view, is displayed.

[0051] A shell body surface 71, which curves into a roughly semi-circular arc shape when the vehicle is viewed from the side, is formed on the outer peripheral wall 62 of the rear shell 61. A raised surface 72, which bulges radially outward relative to the shell body surface 71, is formed at the center of the shell body surface 71 in the left-right direction. The raised surface 72 has a left-right width and extends upward (front). The raised surface 72 has a peripheral wall surface 72a that rises from the shell body surface 71. The raised surface 72 is stepped relative to the shell body surface 71 through the peripheral wall surface 72a.

[0052] A generally octagonal opening (third opening) 72b, extending radially through the raised surface 72, is formed at the lower (rear) portion of the raised surface 72. Corresponding to the location of the opening 72b, a direction switch 80, such as an input direction switch, is supported in the switch housing 60. The direction switch 80 is an example of a third switch. The direction switch 80 includes: a switch body (not shown) supported within the switch housing 60; and a plate-shaped cross key (direction key) 81 supported on the switch body, serving as an operating part for switching the switch input of the switch body.

[0053] The cross key 81 is positioned in the opening 72b. The cross key 81 has a key base panel 81a that is approximately octagonal in shape when viewed from the driver's perspective (see reference). Figure 5 The keypad panel 81a is configured to be recessed relative to the outer surface of the raised surface 72 towards the handle 21 (see reference). Figure 3 On the keypad panel 81a, an upper key portion 81b, a lower key portion 81c, a left key portion 81d, and a right key portion 81e are formed corresponding to the top, bottom, left, and right sides, respectively. Key portions 81b to 81e protrude radially outward relative to the keypad panel 81a. Key portions 81b to 81e are tilted such that their protrusion relative to the keypad panel 81a increases as they move towards each key portion 81b to 81e. For example, the upper key portion 81b is tilted such that its protrusion relative to the keypad panel 81a increases as it moves upward. Therefore, by moving a finger on the cross key 81 in the direction indicated by the key portions 81b to 81e, it is easy to press the key portions 81b to 81e.

[0054] Compared to the left key portion 81d and the right key portion 81e, the upper key portion 81b and the lower key portion 81c protrude more radially outward relative to the key base panel 81a (see reference). Figure 3 The upper key portion 81b and the lower key portion 81c protrude radially outward from the raised surface 72 (see reference). Figure 4 A central portion 81f extending in the vertical direction is formed between the upper key portion 81b and the lower key portion 81c.

[0055] Compared to the left key portion 81d and the right key portion 81e, the central portion 81f protrudes more radially outward relative to the key base panel 81a (see reference). Figure 3 Compared to the upper key portion 81b and the lower key portion 81c, the central portion 81f protrudes less radially outward relative to the key base panel 81a (see reference). Figure 4 The central portion 81f protrudes radially outward from the raised surface 72 (see reference). Figure 4 ).

[0056] Through the central portion 81f, the upper key portion 81b and the lower key portion 81c in the cross key 81 are connected. On the other hand, through the central portion 81f, the left key portion 81d and the right key portion 81e in the cross key 81 are separated. Therefore, by touching the central portion 81f, which extends in the vertical direction, the positional relationship of the key portions 81b to 81e indicating direction can be easily identified based on the tactile sensation of the finger.

[0057] The keypad panel 81a, key portions 81b-81e, and central portion 81f are formed as a single unit. A cross-shaped key 81 is formed by the keypad panel 81a, key portions 81b-81e, and central portion 81f. In the cross-shaped key 81, pressing the key portions 81b-81e tilts the entire cross-shaped key 81 towards those key portions, thereby facilitating the switch input.

[0058] The direction switch 80 of this embodiment has a light source housed in the switch housing 60. This light source illuminates the central portion 81f. Specifically, the cross key 81 is made of transparent resin, an example of a transparent material. Furthermore, a coating is applied to the area outside the central portion 81f, and the area outside the central portion 81f is configured to block light. Thus, when the light source of the direction switch 80 is illuminated, the light from the light source is directed towards the occupant side through the transparent central portion 81f in the cross key 81. On the other hand, the light from the light source is blocked outside the central portion 81f. Thus, it appears that the central portion 81f of the cross key 81 is illuminated. In addition, in this embodiment, the light from the light source also passes through the gap 82 between the inner periphery of the upper opening 71a and the outer periphery of the cross key 81 (see reference). Figure 5 (Leakage). Therefore, the outline shape of the cross key 81 can be easily highlighted by the light from the light source.

[0059] A raised surface (protrusion) 73 is formed on the imaginary line L1 connecting the left key portion 81d and the right key portion 81e. The raised surface 73 is formed to the left of the raised surface 72. The raised surface 73 protrudes radially outward relative to the housing body surface 71. The raised surface 73 extends along the imaginary line L1, which extends in the left-right direction. Therefore, the raised surface 73 extends in the left-right direction, which is the operating direction of the cross key 81. In addition, the raised surface 73 extends in the extending direction of the left handle portion 21c.

[0060] The convex surface 73 does not protrude radially outward relative to the raised surface 72, but connects to the radial midpoint of the surrounding wall surface 72a of the raised surface 72 (see reference). Figure 3 The convex surface 73 has a shape that is continuous with the surrounding wall surface 72a. The convex surface 73 bends towards the left handle portion 21c as it moves to the left, and connects with the outer sidewall 63 of the switch housing 60. Therefore, when moving a finger from the left side to the right side of the outer sidewall 63, it is easy to move the finger along the protruding shape of the convex surface 73 that is continuously connected to the outer sidewall 63.

[0061] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 A sectional view along line VI-VI.

[0062] An upper opening (first opening) 71a is formed above the convex surface 73, extending radially through the main body surface 71 of the housing. The upper opening 71a is formed to the left of the raised surface 72. Corresponding to the upper opening 71a, a mode switch 90 for selecting the driving mode of the saddle-type vehicle 10 is supported in the switch housing 60. The mode switch 90 is an example of the first switch.

[0063] The mode switch 90 includes a switch body 91 with an input element. The switch body 91 is supported within a switch housing 60. The switch body 91 has a hinge shaft (the hinge mechanism of the first switch) 92. The hinge shaft 92 extends in the left-right direction. A generally plate-shaped switch operating part 93 is connected to the switch body 91 in a swingable manner via the hinge shaft 92. By swinging the switch operating part 93 relative to the switch body 91 about the hinge shaft 92, the input element of the switch body 91 is pressed or depressed, and the switch input of the mode switch 90 is switched. The switch operating part 93 is exposed to the outside of the switch housing 60 through an upper opening 71a.

[0064] The switch operating part 93 is a plate-shaped part extending vertically. The lower end of the switch operating part 93 is connected to the hinge shaft 92. Therefore, the lower end of the switch operating part 93 cannot be pressed in by the hinge shaft 92, while the upper end can be pressed in. A protrusion 93a protruding radially outward is formed at the upper end of the switch operating part 93. When a finger is moved upward (forward) on the switch operating part 93, the finger hooks onto the protrusion 93a, making it easy to press the switch operating part 93 towards the switch body 91. The mode switch 90 of this embodiment has a waterproof structure.

[0065] The hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90 is disposed radially inside the convex surface 73. The hinge shaft 92 is disposed overlapping the convex surface 73 when viewed from the driver's perspective (along the operating direction of the first switch). The driver's perspective is the line of sight from the occupant (driver) sitting on the seat 17 operating the handle 21, specifically the line of sight from the driver sitting on the seat 17 when observing the left handle switch 52. In other words, in... Figure 4 In the middle, the normal of the convex surface 73 faces the driver sitting on the seat 17, and the hinge shaft 92 can overlap with the convex surface 73 in the normal direction N of the convex surface 73.

[0066] A lower opening (second opening) 71b is formed below the convex surface 73, extending radially through the main body surface 71 of the housing. The lower opening 71b is formed on the lower left side of the raised surface 72. Corresponding to the lower opening 71b, a horn switch 100 for operating the horn is supported in the switch housing 60. The horn switch 100 is an example of a second switch.

[0067] The horn switch 100 is located below the mode switch 90 (see reference). Figure 6 The horn switch 100 includes a switch body 101 with an input element. The switch body 101 is supported within a switch housing 60. The switch body 101 has a hinge shaft (the hinge mechanism of the second switch) 102. The hinge shaft 102 extends in the left-right direction. The hinge shaft 102 of the horn switch 100 is closer to the center O21 of the handle 21 than the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90. In other words, when observing the vehicle from the side (refer to...), Figure 4 The hinge axis 92 of the mode switch 90 is located radially outward of the hinge axis 102 of the horn switch 100, relative to the center O21 of the handle 21. A generally plate-shaped operating button 103 is connected to the switch body 101 via the hinge axis 102 in a pivotable manner. The operating button 103 pivots relative to the switch body 101 around the hinge axis 102, thereby pressing or depressing the input element of the switch body 101, and switching the switch input of the horn switch 100. The operating button 103 is exposed outside the switch housing 60 through the lower opening 71b.

[0068] The operation button 103 of the horn switch 100 is polygonal in shape when viewed from the driver's perspective (see reference). Figure 5 The operation button 103 includes: a base edge portion 103a located on the hinge shaft 102 side and extending in the left-right direction; an outer side edge portion 103b extending downward from the left end (outer end in the left-right direction) of the base edge portion 103a; an inner inclined edge portion 103c extending downward to the right from the right end (inner end in the left-right direction) of the base edge portion 103a; an inner side edge portion 103d extending downward from the right end of the inner inclined edge portion 103c; and an end edge portion 103e connecting the lower end of the outer side edge portion 103b to the lower end of the inner side edge portion 103d. That is, the outer side edge portion 103b extends downward from the base edge portion 103a, while the inner inclined edge portion 103c extends in a downward-right inclination, thereby the left-right width of the end edge portion 103e is larger than the left-right width of the base edge portion 103a.

[0069] Therefore, when pressing the operation button 103 with a finger, the driver's finger is less likely to reach the base edge 103a side that is not pressed by the hinge shaft 102, but can easily press the wider end edge 103e side that is easily reached by the finger. This improves the operability of the horn switch 100. From the driver's perspective, the inner inclined edge 103c extends along the surrounding wall 72a of the raised surface 72.

[0070] In this embodiment, the operation button 103 of the horn switch 100 is exposed from the lower opening 71b. The lower opening 71b is shaped to open rearward and has a protruding surface 73 formed on its upper part (see reference). Figure 4 Therefore, rainwater and other water are unlikely to enter the switch housing 60 through the lower opening 71b. Furthermore, even if water enters the switch housing 60 from above through the upper opening 71a, the water from above is easily blocked by the upper mode switch 90, making it difficult for it to reach the lower horn switch 100. Therefore, the additional structure for waterproofing in the lower horn switch 100 can be simplified, thus making the overall structure of the left handle switch 52 more compact.

[0071] Below the horn switch 100, an extension surface 74 extending downward from the housing body surface 71 is formed on the outer peripheral wall 62. The extension surface 74 is a flat surface shape that extends downward relative to the curved housing body surface 71 (see reference). Figure 4A turn indicator switch 110 is disposed on the extension surface 74. The turn indicator switch 110 is an example of a fourth switch. The turn indicator switch 110 includes: a switch body (not shown) supported within a switch housing 60; a turn indicator lever 112 supported on the switch body in a manner capable of left and right movement; and an operating member 113 supported at the end of the turn indicator lever 112. In the turn indicator switch 110 of this embodiment, swinging the turn indicator lever 112 to the left causes the left turn indicator to flash, and swinging it to the right causes the right turn indicator to flash. Furthermore, pressing the turn indicator lever 122 forward toward the vehicle body extinguishes either of the flashing turn indicators.

[0072] A torque switch 120 is provided on the front housing 65 side of the left handle switch 52. The torque switch 120 is an example of a fifth switch. The torque switch 120 has a switch body (not shown) supported within the switch housing 60 and an operating lever 123 supported on the switch body in a swingable manner. The operating lever 123 is swingably connected to the switch body about a hinge axis extending in the vertical direction. The operating lever 123 can be operated with the index finger of the left hand placed on the left grip 51.

[0073] The switch bodies 91-101 of switches 80-120 are electrically connected to the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) via wiring cable 131. The ECU switches the display of the instrument display device 31 or controls the turn signals or horn based on the input signals from switches 80-120.

[0074] In this saddle-type vehicle (vehicle) 10, the driver, seated on the seat 17, operates the various switches 80-120 of the left handlebar switch 52. In the left handlebar switch 52 of this embodiment, the mode switch 90 and the horn switch 100 are separated vertically by a protruding surface 73 protruding towards the driver's side in the switch housing 60. Furthermore, by moving a finger along the length of the protruding surface 73 from the left grip 51, the direction switch 80 can be easily reached via the stepped shape formed by the surrounding wall surface 72a and the raised surface 72. Therefore, with the left handlebar switch 52, the positions of the various switches 80-100 are easily identified by touch, and the finger can easily be moved to the positions of the switches 80-100.

[0075] Furthermore, by providing the convex surface 73, its radially inner side can easily become a dead zone. In contrast, in this embodiment, the hinge shaft 92 of the switch operation section 93 of the mode switch 90 is arranged radially inner to the convex surface 73. Therefore, using the radially inner side of the convex surface 73 as the arrangement space for the hinge shaft 92 makes it easier to make the switch housing 60 compact compared to not using the radially inner side of the convex surface 73 as the arrangement space for the hinge shaft 92. In addition, by making the non-pressable part overlap with the convex surface 73, the operable area of ​​the mode switch 90 that can be pressed and moved (i.e., the area of ​​the switch operation section 93 when viewed from the driver's perspective) can be ensured.

[0076] As described above, according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in the left handle switch 52 which has a switch housing 60 provided with a handle 21 provided on the saddle-type vehicle 10 and a mode switch 90 supported on the switch housing 60, a protruding surface 73 is provided on the switch housing 60, and the mode switch 90 is a switch with a hinge shaft 92, which overlaps with the protruding surface 73 when viewed from the driver's perspective.

[0077] According to this structure, by making the portion of the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, which is difficult to press in, overlap with the convex surface 73 when viewed from the driver's perspective, compared to the case where it does not overlap with the convex surface 73, the switch operation portion 93 of the mode switch 90 can be configured while ensuring the operable area of ​​the mode switch 90. Therefore, the left handlebar switch 52 can be made compact while ensuring the operability of the mode switch 90. In addition, even when the mode switch 90 does not overlap with the convex surface 73, its shape is the same as that of the mode switch 90 in this embodiment. Compared to the case where it does not overlap with the convex surface 73, in this embodiment, the entire portion of the mode switch 90 visible from the driver's perspective can be pressed in, thus improving the operability of the mode switch 90.

[0078] In this embodiment, the switch housing 60 also includes a horn switch 100, with the protruding surface 73 located between the mode switch 90 and the horn switch 100.

[0079] According to this structure, the convex surface 73 is located between the mode switch 90 and the horn switch 100, thereby distinguishing the two switches 90 and 100 and improving their operability.

[0080] In addition, in this embodiment, the horn switch 100 has a hinge shaft 102. When observing the vehicle from the side, the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90 is located radially outward of the handle 21 compared to the hinge shaft 102 of the horn switch 100.

[0081] According to this structure, the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, which overlaps with the convex surface 73, is located radially outward from the switch housing 60 compared to the hinge shaft 102 of the horn switch 100. This allows the hinge shafts 92 and 102 to be easily arranged offset within the switch housing 60 on the occupant side, making the left handle switch 52 more compact.

[0082] In addition, in this embodiment, the switch housing 60 also includes a direction switch 80, and the protruding surface 73 is continuous with at least a portion of the surrounding wall surface 72a disposed around the direction switch 80.

[0083] According to this structure, the surrounding wall 72a of the raised surface 72 around the direction switch 80 is continuous with the convex surface 73, thereby enabling the convex surface 73 to function as a guide for the direction switch 80, which can further improve the operability of the left handle switch 52.

[0084] In addition, in this embodiment, the operating direction of the direction switch 80 includes up, down, left and right, and the operating direction of the direction switch 80 includes the long side direction of the convex surface 73 when the switch housing 60 is viewed from the front, i.e., the left and right direction.

[0085] According to this structure, by aligning a portion of the operating direction of the directional switch 80 with the length direction of the convex surface 73, the operator's finger movement along the convex surface 73 can be made consistent with a portion of the operating direction of the directional switch 80, thereby further improving the operability of the switch in the left handle switch 52.

[0086] In addition, in this embodiment, the length direction of the convex surface 73 when viewed from the driver's perspective is the same as the axial direction of the handle 21.

[0087] According to this structure, by making the longitudinal direction of the protruding surface 73 the same as the axial direction of the handle 21, the protruding surface 73 can be positioned in a position where the operator's fingers can easily move, thereby improving the operability of the switch in the left handle switch 52.

[0088] [Second Implementation]

[0089] A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this second embodiment, parts that are constructed in the same manner as in the first embodiment are labeled with the same reference numerals, and descriptions are omitted.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the left handle switch 252 of the second embodiment, viewed from the rear and above. Figure 8 This is a left view of the left handle switch 252 of the second embodiment. Figure 7 , Figure 8 Each of the first embodiments Figure 5 , Figure 4correspond.

[0091] The left handle switch (handle switch) 252 of the second embodiment has a horn switch 200 instead of the horn switch 100 of the first embodiment.

[0092] In the second embodiment of the horn switch 200, the difference from the first embodiment is that, when viewed from the driver's perspective, the hinge shaft 202 and the convex surface 73 are arranged overlappingly. Specifically, in the second embodiment of the horn switch 200, when viewed from the driver's perspective, the hinge shaft 202 and the hinge shaft 92 are arranged overlappingly. The hinge shaft 202 of the horn switch 200 is closer to the center O21 of the handle 21 than the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90. Therefore, in the left handle switch 252, the convex surface 73, the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, and the hinge shaft 202 of the horn switch 200 are arranged radially outward in the order of convex surface 73, hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, and hinge shaft 202 of the horn switch 200, and when viewed from the driver's perspective, the convex surface 73, the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, and the hinge shaft 202 of the horn switch 200 overlap.

[0093] Furthermore, the operation button 103 of the horn switch 200 extends within the switch housing 60 according to the position of the hinge shaft 202, and the shape inside the switch housing 60 is different from that of the operation button 103 in the first embodiment. However, in the horn switch 200, the external shape of the operation button 103 exposed from the lower opening 71b is configured to be the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0094] As described above, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90 overlaps with the convex surface 73 when viewed from the driver's perspective. Similar to the first embodiment, this allows the left handle switch 252 to be compact while ensuring the operability of the mode switch 90.

[0095] In particular, in this embodiment, when viewed from the driver's perspective, the convex surface 73, the hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, and the hinge shaft 202 of the horn switch 200 overlap radially outward in the order of convex surface 73, hinge shaft 92 of the mode switch 90, and hinge shaft 202 of the horn switch 200.

[0096] According to this structure, when viewed from the driver's perspective, the two hinge shafts 92 and 202 can overlap with the convex surface 73 and be arranged alternately in the radial direction. Therefore, the left handlebar switch 252 can be made compact, and the hinge shafts 92 and 202 can be protected by the convex surface 73 without the need for additional parts.

[0097] [Other Implementation Methods]

[0098] The above-described embodiments are merely one aspect of the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0099] In the above embodiments, the structures of hinge shafts 92, 102, and 202 have been described regarding the hinge mechanisms of switches 90, 100, and 200. However, the hinge mechanisms of these switches 90-200 are not limited to the structures of hinge shafts 92-202. For example, taking the mode switch 90 as an example, the hinge mechanism may also be a hinge mechanism consisting of a hole extending in the left-right direction provided in the switch body 91 and a shaft provided in the switch operation part 93 that is rotatably connected to the hole, as long as the switch operation part 93 can rotate around the hole. That is, the hinge mechanism of switches 90-200 is any mechanism that can rotate around a predetermined direction as the center of rotation.

[0100] In the above embodiment, a structure is described in which a direction switch 80, a mode switch 90, a horn switch 100, a direction indicator switch 110, and a torque switch 120 are provided on the left handle switch 52. However, the number of switches and their functions are arbitrary. Therefore, for example, it is also possible to assign the functions of other switches to the switch structure described as mode switch 90.

[0101] In the above embodiments, a saddle-type vehicle 10 having front wheels 13 and rear wheels 15 was described as an example of a vehicle, but the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can also be applied to saddle-type vehicles with three or more wheels having two front wheels or rear wheels, and vehicles other than saddle-type vehicles.

[0102] [Structure supported by the above embodiments]

[0103] The above implementation supports the following structures.

[0104] (Structure 1) A handle switch comprising: a switch housing disposed on a handle of a vehicle; and a first switch supported on the switch housing, characterized in that a protrusion is provided in the switch housing, and the first switch is a switch having a hinge mechanism, wherein when viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the hinge mechanism of the first switch overlaps with the protrusion.

[0105] According to this structure, by making the portion of the hinge mechanism, which is difficult to press into when the first switch is pressed, overlap with the protrusion when viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the first switch can be configured while ensuring its operable area, compared to the case where it does not overlap with the protrusion. Therefore, a compact handle switch can be easily achieved while ensuring the operability of the switch. Furthermore, even if the shape of the first switch is the same, compared to the case where it does not overlap with the protrusion, the entire portion of the first switch visible from the driver's perspective can be pressed into place, thus improving the operability of the first switch.

[0106] (Structure 2) According to the handle switch of Structure 1, the switch housing further comprises a second switch, and the protrusion is located between the first switch and the second switch.

[0107] According to this structure, by positioning the protrusion between the first switch and the second switch, the two switches can be distinguished, thereby improving the operability of the two switches.

[0108] (Structure 3) According to the handle switch of Structure 2, the second switch has a hinge mechanism, and when the vehicle is viewed from the side, the hinge mechanism of the first switch is located on the outer side relative to the center of the handle, which is closer to the hinge mechanism of the second switch.

[0109] According to this structure, the hinge mechanism of the first switch that overlaps with the protrusion is located on the outside of the switch housing than the hinge mechanism of the second switch. This allows the hinge mechanism to be easily arranged offset within the switch housing on the occupant side, making the handle switch more compact.

[0110] (Structure 4) According to the handle switch of Structure 3, the characteristic is that, when viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the protrusion, the hinge mechanism of the first switch, and the hinge mechanism of the second switch overlap from the outside with reference to the center of the handle in the order of the protrusion, the hinge mechanism of the first switch, and the hinge mechanism of the second switch.

[0111] According to this structure, the two hinge mechanisms and the protrusion can overlap when viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, and can be alternately arranged in a direction based on the center of the handle. Therefore, the handle switch can be made compact, and the hinge mechanism can be protected by the protrusion without the need for additional parts.

[0112] (Structure 5) The handle switch according to any one of Structures 1 to 4, characterized in that the switch housing further comprises a third switch, wherein the protrusion is continuous with at least a portion of the wall disposed around the third switch.

[0113] According to this structure, by making the wall portion around the third switch continuous with the protrusion portion, the protrusion portion can serve as a guide portion to the third switch, thereby further improving the operability of the switch in the handle switch.

[0114] (Structure 6) According to the handle switch of Structure 5, the operating direction of the third switch includes the length direction of the protrusion when the switch housing is viewed from the front.

[0115] According to this structure, by making the operating direction of the third switch the same as the length direction of the protrusion, the operator's finger movement along the protrusion can be aligned with the operating direction of the third switch, thereby further improving the operability of the switch in the handle switch.

[0116] (Structure 7) The handle switch according to Structure 6 is characterized in that the length direction of the protrusion when viewed along the operating direction of the first switch is the same as the axial direction of the handle.

[0117] According to this structure, by making the length direction of the protrusion the same as the axis of the handle, the protrusion can be positioned in a position where the operator's fingers can easily move, thereby improving the operability of the switch in the handle switch.

[0118] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0119] 10: Vehicles;

[0120] 21: Handle;

[0121] 52: Left handle switch (handle switch);

[0122] 60: Switch housing;

[0123] 72a: Surrounding wall surface (wall portion);

[0124] 73: convex part surface (convex part);

[0125] 80: Directional switch (third switch);

[0126] 90: Mode switch (first switch);

[0127] 92: Hinge shaft (hinge mechanism);

[0128] 100: Horn switch (second switch);

[0129] 102: Hinge shaft (hinge mechanism);

[0130] 200: Horn switch (second switch);

[0131] 202: Hinge shaft (hinge mechanism);

[0132] 252: Left handle switch (handle switch);

[0133] O21: The center of the handle.

Claims

1. A handle switch comprising: a switch housing (60) disposed on a handle (21) of a vehicle (10); and a first switch supported on the switch housing (60), characterized in that, The switch housing (60) further comprises: a second switch disposed below the first switch; and a third switch disposed on a raised portion extending radially outward from the center in the left-right direction of the switch housing (60). The switch housing (60) is provided with a protrusion. The protrusion is located between the first switch and the second switch. The length direction of the protrusion is continuous from the grip provided on the handle (21) toward the raised portion surrounding the third switch, and the third switch is located on the extension line of the length direction of the protrusion. The first switch is a switch with a hinge mechanism. When viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the hinge mechanism of the first switch overlaps with the protrusion.

2. The handle switch according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second switch has a hinge mechanism. When viewing the vehicle from the side, the hinge mechanism of the first switch is located on the outside of the hinge mechanism of the second switch, with reference to the center (O21) of the handle (21).

3. The handle switch according to claim 2, characterized in that, When viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the protrusion, the hinge mechanism of the first switch, and the hinge mechanism of the second switch overlap from the outside of the center (O21) of the handle (21) in the order of the protrusion, the hinge mechanism of the first switch, and the hinge mechanism of the second switch.

4. The handle switch according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The operating direction of the third switch includes the length direction of the protrusion when the switch housing (60) is viewed from the front.

5. The handle switch according to claim 4, characterized in that, When viewed along the operating direction of the first switch, the length direction of the protrusion is the same as the axial direction of the handle (21).

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