Actuator device and door lock device for vehicle

Abstract

To provide an actuator device with a comparatively small and simple structure, which carries out an actuation of two different types of operation mechanisms by a single driving actuator, and a door lock device for a vehicle equipped with the actuator device.SOLUTION: An actuator device having a bidirectional actuation member 52 that actuates respectively in different first and second directions by a power of a single driving actuator 51 comprises: a first operation mechanism 5 that carries out a first operation by actuation in the first direction; and a second operation mechanism 6 that carries out a second operation by actuation in the second direction, the second operation mechanism 6 including a cooperation mechanism (52f, 61) actuated by actuation of the bidirectional actuation member 52, and a switching member 61 that moves between different first and second positions when actuation of the cooperation mechanism (52f, 61) is transmitted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an actuator device and a vehicle door lock device equipped with the actuator device, and in particular to an actuator device that has a relatively small and simple structure and that operates two different operating mechanisms using a single drive actuator, and a vehicle door lock device equipped with the actuator device, that has a relatively small and simple structure and that uses a single drive actuator to perform the operations of releasing the engagement of an engagement mechanism and switching the operating state of a locking / unlocking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state, or switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a disabled state and an enabled state. [Background technology]

[0002] A conventional electric release vehicle door latch device that operates to release a vehicle door using the power of a drive actuator such as a motor includes an engagement mechanism that holds the door in a closed position by engaging with a striker on the vehicle body, a manual release mechanism that manually releases the engagement of the engagement mechanism, a locking / unlocking mechanism that switches between a locked state in which the operation of the manual release mechanism cannot be transmitted to the engagement mechanism and thereby disables disengagement of the engagement mechanism, and an unlocked state in which the operation of the manual release mechanism can be transmitted to the engagement mechanism and thereby enables disengagement of the engagement mechanism, and an electric release mechanism that releases the engagement of the engagement mechanism using the power of the drive actuator. The electric release mechanism has an actuator mechanism unit including a drive actuator such as a motor. When the door is electrically released, the output unit of the actuator mechanism unit is operated by the power of the drive actuator of the actuator mechanism unit, and the output unit is brought into contact with the input unit of the engagement mechanism to release the engagement of the engagement mechanism.

[0003] In an electric release type vehicle door latch device, a device has been proposed that enables the operation of both the electric release mechanism and the locking / unlocking mechanism to be performed by a single drive actuator. For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2020-143423 (Patent Document 1) proposes a vehicle door latch device in which the electric release mechanism is a rotating cam that rotates in the forward or reverse direction from a reference position against the biasing force of a spring by the power of a motor and can then return to the reference position by the biasing force of the spring, the rotating cam having a cam portion for rotating an open lever that activates a ratchet lever that disengages the meshing mechanism and a rotating cam provided with multiple engaging portions for operating the locking / unlocking mechanism, and the locking / unlocking mechanism has an active lever that does not restrict the rotation angle of the rotating cam in the forward direction when in a locked state but restricts the rotation angle of the rotating cam in the forward direction to a predetermined angle when in an unlocked state.

[0004] The electric release mechanism of the device in Patent Document 1 operates as follows: (1) when the locking / unlocking mechanism is locked, the rotating cam rotates in the forward direction by an angle greater than the predetermined angle, thereby disengaging the engagement mechanism; (2) when the locking / unlocking mechanism is locked, the rotating cam rotates in the reverse direction, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism from the locked state to the unlocked state; and (3) when the locking / unlocking mechanism is unlocked, the rotating cam rotates in the forward direction by a predetermined angle, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism from the unlocked state to the locked state. Thus, in the device of Patent Document 1, the rotating cam must be rotated in the same direction for the operation (1) to disengage the engagement mechanism and the operation (3) to switch the locking / unlocking mechanism from the unlocked state to the locked state. Furthermore, the operation (3) requires an active lever to limit the rotation angle of the rotating cam in the forward direction to a predetermined angle. Therefore, the structure for switching the locking / unlocking mechanism between the locked and unlocked states is relatively complex and requires a large number of parts. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2020-143423 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an actuator device which has a relatively small size and simple structure and which operates two different types of operating mechanisms using a single drive actuator.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle door lock device that has a relatively small and simple structure and that uses a single driving actuator to perform the operations of disengaging the engaging mechanism and switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state, or switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between an enabled state and an disabled state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] As a result of intensive research in light of the above object, the inventors have discovered that in an actuator device having a two-way operating member that operates in first and second different directions by the power of a single drive actuator, if a first operating mechanism that performs a first operation by operation in the first direction and a second operating mechanism that performs a second operation by operation in the second direction are provided, the second operating mechanism including a linking mechanism that operates by operation of the two-way operating member and a switching member that moves between the first and second different positions by transmitting the operation of the linking mechanism, it is possible to obtain an actuator device that has a relatively small and simple structure and that operates two different operating mechanisms by a single drive actuator, and have conceived of the present invention.

[0009] The inventors also discovered that by applying the above actuator device so that the first operating mechanism is used as an electric release mechanism and the second operating mechanism is used as an electric switching mechanism for operating the locking / unlocking mechanism, a vehicle door lock device can be obtained that has a relatively small and simple structure and that uses a single driving actuator to perform the operations of releasing the engagement of the engagement mechanism and switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state, or switching the switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a disabled state and an enabled state, and thus conceived of the present invention.

[0010] That is, the actuator device of the present invention operates in two directions by a single driving actuator, a two-way operating member that operates in first and second different directions against the biasing force of the return biasing member by the power of the drive actuator, with a neutral position maintained by the return biasing member as a reference position; a first operating mechanism that performs a first operation by actuating the two-way actuating member in the first direction; a second operating mechanism that performs a second operation different from the first operation by actuation of the two-way actuating member in the second direction, the second operating mechanism including a linking mechanism that is actuated by actuation of the two-way actuating member, and a switching member that moves between first and second different positions by transmitting the actuation of the linking mechanism; when the first operation mechanism is operated, the two-way operation member is operated from the reference position in the first direction by the power of the drive actuator against the biasing force of the return biasing member to operate the first operation mechanism, and then operates to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member, When the second operating mechanism is actuated, the two-way actuating member: a first switching operation in which the driving actuator is actuated from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, thereby switching the switching member from the first position to the second position via the linkage mechanism, and then operating to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; a second switching operation in which the driving actuator is actuated from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, to switch the switching member from the second position to the first position via the linkage mechanism, and then actuated to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; and thereby switching the switching member between the first and second positions.

[0011] In the actuator device of the present invention, a first operation is performed by operating the two-way operating member in a first direction, and a second operation is performed by operating the switching member in a second direction, moving the switching member between the first and second positions.This means that operation in the first direction only operates the first operating mechanism, and operation in the second direction only operates the second operating mechanism that requires switching operation.Since there is no need to operate the second operating mechanism that requires switching operation separately in the first and second directions, the structure can be simplified and the device can be made more compact.

[0012] In a preferred example of the present invention, the two-way actuating member is a rotating member rotatably supported by a pivot, and is rotatable by power of the drive actuator against the biasing force of the return biasing member in a first rotation direction, which is one of a forward direction and a reverse direction, from the reference position, and in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the first operation mechanism is provided with an operation member that performs the first operation, the operation member being rotatably supported by a pivot, and that is pressed by a cam portion provided on the rotation member to rotate when the rotation member rotates in the first rotation direction, the linking mechanism of the second operation mechanism is a mechanism that is actuated by rotation of the rotating member in the second rotation direction, and includes an operating portion provided on the rotating member, and a transmission member that is engageable with and disengageable from the operating portion, and that moves from a standby position to a linking position when the rotating member rotates in the second rotation direction, and moves from the linking position to the standby position when the rotating member returns to the reference position, When the second operating mechanism is actuated, the rotating member a first switching operation in which the switching member is rotated from the reference position in the second rotation direction and the operation unit moves the transmission member from the standby position to the linked position, thereby switching the switching member from the first position to the second position, and then returning the switching member to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; a second switching operation in which the switching member is rotated from the reference position in the second rotation direction and the operation unit moves the transmission member from the linked position to the standby position, thereby switching the switching member from the second position to the first position, and then operating to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; thereby switching the switching member between the first and second positions.

[0013] In a more preferred example, the cam portion is provided on a first rotation surface which is one of the rotation surfaces of the rotation member, and the operation member is disposed on the first rotation surface side of the rotation member, The operating unit is provided on a second rotation surface, which is the other rotation surface of the rotating member, and the transmission member is arranged so that a portion of it overlaps the second rotation surface and is capable of engaging and disengaging with the operating unit, and the switching member is arranged on the second rotation surface side.

[0014] As described above, by arranging the operating member on the first rotation surface side and the switching member on the second rotation surface side, the first and second operations can be performed by a single rotation member, simplifying the structure and reducing the size of the device. Furthermore, by arranging a portion of the transmission member so that it overlaps the rotation surface of the rotation member and supporting it on an operation unit provided on the rotation member, it is not necessary to provide a structure for pivotally supporting the transmission member, and the driving force of the drive actuator can be reliably transmitted to the switching member by the transmission member while simplifying the structure. Furthermore, by arranging the rotation member and the transmission member in an overlapping configuration, the target of the second operation and the rotation member can be brought close to each other, thereby reducing the size of the device.

[0015] In another more preferred example, the second operating mechanism has a mechanical cam mechanism between the linking mechanism and the switching member, the mechanical cam mechanism having first and second gear-shaped cam members that are arranged on the same axis and rotate integrally, the first cam member having a plurality of engaging teeth extending radially outward from its center of rotation that sequentially mesh with engaged portions provided on the switching member as the first cam member rotates, moving the switching member between the first and second positions, and the second cam member having a plurality of engaging teeth extending radially outward from its center of rotation that are spaced apart from the transmission member when the transmission member is in the standby position and that engage with and press against cam pressing portions provided on the transmission member when the transmission member moves from the standby position to the linking position, causing the first and second cam members to rotate integrally.

[0016] In a further preferred example, each engagement tooth of the first cam member has a tongue shape on the rotational surface, and a first step portion is provided at its tip end for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, and a second step portion is provided at the bottom of each inter-tooth recess of the first cam member for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, each engagement tooth of the second cam member has a mountain shape on the rotational surface, and has a smaller tooth width than each engagement tooth of the first cam member, the number of teeth of the second cam member is twice the number of teeth of the first cam member, and the first and second cam members are arranged overlapping each other so that the alternatingly formed engagement teeth and inter-tooth recesses of the first cam member are arranged alternately with respect to the plurality of engagement teeth of the second cam member.

[0017] As described above, by making the engaging teeth of the second cam member have a smaller tooth width than the engaging teeth of the first cam member and by making them shaped like a mountain on the rotation surface, the transmission member can move from the linked position to the standby position without interfering with the second cam member after pressing the second cam member, so that the first and second operations can be achieved in a space-saving manner and the device can be made smaller.

[0018] The vehicle door lock device of the present invention includes the actuator device of the present invention, an engagement mechanism that holds the door in a closed position by engaging with a striker provided on the vehicle body; a manual release mechanism that releases the engagement of the engagement mechanism by a manual operating force; a locking / unlocking mechanism that switches between a locked state in which the operation of the manual release mechanism cannot be transmitted to the engaging mechanism and the engaging mechanism cannot be released, and an unlocked state in which the operation of the manual release mechanism can be transmitted to the engaging mechanism and the engaging mechanism can be released, the actuator device has, as the first operation mechanism, an electric release mechanism that releases the engagement of the engagement mechanism by power of the drive actuator, the second operating mechanism of the actuator device is an electric switching mechanism having a first switching function of switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between the locked state and the unlocked state, or a second switching function of switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a disabled state and an enabled state, the electric switching mechanism being operated by the power of the drive actuator that is also used with the electric release mechanism; the electric release mechanism and the electric switching mechanism are provided with a common rotating member as the two-way actuating member of the actuator device, the rotating member being rotatably supported by a pivot and being rotatable by power of the drive actuator in a first rotating direction, which is one of a forward direction and a reverse direction, from the reference position against the biasing force of the return biasing member, and in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction; the electric switching mechanism includes, as the linking mechanism of the actuator device, a linking mechanism that is actuated by the rotation of the rotating member in the second rotation direction, and includes, as the switching member of the actuator device, a switching member that moves between first and second different positions by transmitting the operation of the linking mechanism; When the electric release mechanism is operated, the rotating member rotates in the first direction by the power of the drive actuator against the biasing force of the return biasing member to release the meshing of the meshing mechanism, and then operates to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member, When the electric switching mechanism is operated, the rotating member a first switching operation in which the driving actuator rotates from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, thereby switching the switching member from the first position to the second position via the linkage mechanism, and then operates to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; a second switching operation in which the driving actuator is actuated from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, to switch the switching member from the second position to the first position via the linkage mechanism, and then actuated to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; and and thereby, by switching the switching member between the first and second positions, the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism is switched between the locked state and the unlocked state, or the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism is switched between a state in which switching is disabled and a state in which switching is enabled.

[0019] The actuator device of the present invention is incorporated into a vehicle door lock device, and the first and second operating mechanisms of the actuator device are used as an electric release mechanism that disengages the engaging mechanism and an electric switching mechanism that activates the locking / unlocking mechanism, respectively. The operation of the engaging mechanism is performed by operating the pivoting member in a first direction, and the operation in the second direction moves the switching member between the first and second positions to switch the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state, or between a state in which the switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism is disabled and enabled.By configuring this, operation in the first direction only operates the engaging mechanism, and operation in the second direction only operates the locking / unlocking mechanism that requires switching operation.Since there is no need to operate the locking / unlocking mechanism that requires switching operation separately in the first and second directions, the structure can be simplified and the device can be made smaller.

[0020] In a preferred example of the present invention, the electric release mechanism has a release member that, when the rotating member rotates in the first direction, is pressed by a cam portion provided on the rotating member to rotate and thereby release the engagement of the engagement mechanism, the linking mechanism of the electric switching mechanism includes an operation unit provided on the rotating member, and a transmission member that is engageable with and disengageable from the operation unit, the transmission member moving from a standby position to a linking position when the rotating member rotates in the second direction, and moving from the linking position to the standby position when the rotating member returns to the reference position, The switching member of the electric switching mechanism is a locking / unlocking operation member that, when the electric switching mechanism has the first switching function, rotates between a locked position that keeps the locking / unlocking mechanism in the locked state and an unlocked position that keeps it in the unlocked state by movement of the transmission member between the standby position and the linked position, and when the electric switching mechanism has the second switching function, is a locking / unlocking operation member that, when the transmission member moves between the standby position and the linked position, rotates between a locked position that disables switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism and an unlocked position that enables switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism.

[0021] In another more preferable example, the cam portion is provided on a first rotation surface which is one of the rotation surfaces of the rotation member, and the release member is disposed on the first rotation surface side of the rotation member, The operating part is provided on a second rotating surface, which is the other rotating surface of the rotating member, and the transmission member is arranged so that a portion of it overlaps the second rotating surface so that it can be engaged and disengaged with the operating part, and the locking / unlocking operating member is arranged on the second rotating surface side.

[0022] As described above, by arranging the release member on the first rotating surface side and the locking / unlocking operation member (switching member) on the second rotating surface side, it is possible to operate the engagement mechanism and the locking / unlocking mechanism with a single rotating member, thereby simplifying the structure and making the device more compact. Also, by arranging a part of the transmission member so that it overlaps the rotating surface of the rotating member and supporting it on an operation part provided on the rotating member, it is not necessary to provide a structure to pivotally support the transmission member, and it is possible to simplify the structure while ensuring that the driving force of the drive actuator is transmitted to the switching member by the transmission member.

[0023] In another more preferred example, the electric switching mechanism has a mechanical cam mechanism between the linking mechanism and the switching member, which has gear-shaped first and second cam members that are arranged on the same axis and rotate integrally, and the first cam member has a plurality of engaging teeth extending radially outward from its center of rotation that sequentially mesh with engaged portions provided on the switching member as it rotates, moving the switching member between the locked position and the unlocked position, and the second cam member has a plurality of engaging teeth extending radially outward from its center of rotation that are spaced apart from the transmission member when the transmission member is in the standby position, and that engage with and press against cam pressing portions provided on the transmission member when the transmission member moves from the standby position to the linking position, causing the first and second cam members to rotate integrally.

[0024] In a further preferred example, each engagement tooth of the first cam member is tongue-shaped on the rotational surface, and a first step portion is provided at its tip for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, and a second step portion is provided at the bottom of each inter-tooth recess of the first cam member for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, each engagement tooth of the second cam member is mountain-shaped on the rotational surface and has a smaller tooth width than each engagement tooth of the first cam member, the number of teeth of the second cam member is twice the number of teeth of the first cam member, and the first and second cam members are arranged on top of each other so that the alternatingly formed engagement teeth and inter-tooth recesses of the first cam member are arranged alternately with respect to the multiple engagement teeth of the second cam member.

[0025] As described above, the engaging teeth of the second cam member have a smaller tooth width than the engaging teeth of the first cam member and are shaped like a mountain on the rotation surface.This allows the transmission member to move from the linked position to the standby position after pressing the second cam member without interfering with the second cam member, making it possible to operate the engagement mechanism and the locking / unlocking mechanism in a space-saving manner and allowing the device to be made smaller.

[0026] In another more preferred example, the second rotation surface of the rotating member faces an inner surface of a housing that accommodates the locking / unlocking mechanism, the electric release mechanism, and the electric switching mechanism, the rotating member is provided with a wall portion that protrudes perpendicularly from the second rotation surface, a guide wall is provided on the inner surface of the housing, and a guide groove is formed on the inner surface of the housing between the wall portion and the guide wall, the transmission member is provided with an urging portion that supports a holding urging member, and the urging portion is pressed by the holding urging member so that a central portion of the transmission member abuts against the operation portion, and a sliding portion that abuts against a guide groove of the housing, The transmission member is disposed between the wall portion and the guide wall so as to be engageable with and disengageable from the operating portion, and when the rotating member rotates in the second direction, the transmission member is pushed by the operating portion and moves from the standby position to the linked position while sliding against the guide groove of the housing and the second rotation surface of the rotating member, and as the transmission member approaches the linked position, a cam pressing portion provided on the transmission member protrudes from between the wall portion and the guide wall. By arranging the rotating member and the transmission member in such an overlapping configuration, the locking / unlocking mechanism and the rotating member can be placed close to each other, thereby making it possible to reduce the size of the device.

[0027] In a more preferred example, the guide wall of the housing is provided along an outer periphery of the rotating member, the transmission member is provided with a sliding portion that contacts the wall portion and a sliding portion that contacts the guide wall, the retaining biasing member presses the transmission member toward the operation portion and presses the transmission member so that the transmission member moves along the guide wall, When the transmission member is in the standby position, it abuts against the wall portion and the guide wall, and when the rotating member rotates in the second direction, it is pushed by the operating portion to slide against the guide groove of the housing and the second rotation surface of the rotating member, and moves from the standby position to the linked position while sliding against the guide wall. With this configuration, the retaining biasing member can reliably move the transmission member along the guide wall, thereby achieving high reliability of the device.

[0028] In another preferred example of the present invention, the electric switching mechanism has, as the second switching function, a function of switching between a double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is maintained in the locked state and a non-double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is not maintained, Thus, when the electric switching mechanism is activated, the switching member is switched between the first and second positions, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism between the double-lock state and the non-double-lock state.

[0029] In yet another preferred example of the present invention, the electric switching mechanism has, as the second switching function, a function of switching between a double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is maintained in the locked state and a non-double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is not maintained in the locked state, The vehicle door lock device is provided with another electric switching mechanism having the first switching function, the electric switching mechanism including a drive actuator separate from the drive actuator.

[0030] More preferably, the locking / unlocking mechanism can be switched between the locked state and the unlocked state by the other electric switching mechanism. This allows the locking / unlocking mechanism to be quickly switched from the locked state to the unlocked state in an emergency, etc. Furthermore, since the operating time of the drive actuator when quickly switching from the locked state to the unlocked state can be shortened, the NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) of the vehicle can be reduced.

[0031] In another more preferred example, the electric switching mechanism has, as the second switching function, a function of switching between a double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is maintained in the locked state and a non-double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is not maintained in the locked state, The switching member is a locking / unlocking operating member that rotates between a locking position that maintains the locking / unlocking mechanism in the double-lock state and an unlocking position that maintains the locking / unlocking mechanism in the non-double-lock state by moving the transmission member between the standby position and the linked position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] According to the present invention, an actuator device having a two-way operating member that operates in first and second different directions by the power of a single drive actuator includes a first operating mechanism that performs a first operation by operation in the first direction, and a second operating mechanism that performs a second operation by operation in the second direction, the second operating mechanism including a linking mechanism that operates by operation of the two-way operating member, and a switching member that moves between the first and second different positions by transmitting the operation of the linking mechanism. Therefore, operation in the first direction only requires operation of the first operating mechanism, and operation in the second direction only requires operation of the second operating mechanism that requires switching operation, eliminating the need to operate the second operating mechanism that requires switching separately in the first and second directions. This provides an actuator device that has a relatively small and simple structure and operates two different operating mechanisms by a single drive actuator.

[0033] Furthermore, the actuator device is applied to a vehicle door lock device so that the first operating mechanism is used as an electric release mechanism and the second operating mechanism is used as an electric switching mechanism that operates the locking / unlocking mechanism, so that operation in the first direction only operates the engagement mechanism, and operation in the second direction only operates the locking / unlocking mechanism that requires switching, eliminating the need to separately operate the locking / unlocking mechanism that requires switching in the first and second directions. This provides a vehicle door lock device that has a relatively small and simple structure and uses a single drive actuator to perform the operation of releasing the engagement of the engagement mechanism and the operation of switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state, or the operation of switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between an enabled state and a disabled state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a vehicle door lock device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view showing an internal structure of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the internal structure of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a front view showing a main part of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1 in a non-double lock state. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a rear view showing the main part shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the main part shown in FIG. 4 from the front inside of the vehicle. [Figure 7] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the main part shown in FIG. 4 from the front outside the vehicle. [Figure 8] 5 is a front view showing the main part of FIG. 4 in a state where the rotating member of the main part has rotated in the forward direction from the reference position. [Figure 9] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a transmission member of the main part shown in FIG. [Figure 10]5 is a front view showing a first cam member of the main part shown in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 11] 5 is a perspective view showing a second cam member of the main part shown in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a switching member of the main part shown in FIG. [Figure 13] 2 is a partial perspective view showing a first electric switching mechanism of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 14] 10 is a front view showing the main part in a state in which the pivoting member of the main part is pivoted in the opposite direction from the reference position, from the non-double lock state to the double lock state. FIG. [Figure 15] 15 is a front view showing the main part in a state where the rotating member of the main part shown in FIG. 14 has further rotated in the opposite direction. FIG. [Figure 16] 10 is a front view showing the main part at the time when the rotation of the rotating member in the reverse direction has stopped. FIG. [Figure 17] 2(a) is a front view showing the main parts of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1 in a double lock state, and FIG. 2(b) is a rear view showing the main parts of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1 in a double lock state. [Figure 18] 10 is a front view showing the main part in a state in which the pivoting member of the main part is pivoted in the opposite direction from the reference position, from the double-locked state to the non-double-locked state. FIG. [Figure 19] 10 is a front view showing the main part at the time when the rotation of the rotating member in the reverse direction has stopped. FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a front view showing the main parts of the locking / unlocking mechanism being switched from the double-locked state to the unlocked state using a key. [Figure 21] 21 is a front view showing the main part of the locking / unlocking mechanism shown in FIG. 20 in a state where it has come even closer to the unlock position. [Figure 22] 2 is a front view showing a main part of the vehicle door lock device shown in FIG. 1 in an unlocked state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the following description is not intended to be limiting, and various modifications may be made within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0036] As shown in Figures 1 to 7, an automobile door latch device 1 equipped with the actuator device of the present invention includes an engagement mechanism 2 for holding the door in a closed position, a manual release mechanism 3 that can be released by manual operating force to disengage the engagement of the engagement mechanism 2, a locking / unlocking mechanism 4 that can be switched between a locked state that disables the release operation of the manual release mechanism 3 and an unlocked state that enables it, an electric release mechanism (first operating mechanism of the actuator device) 5 that can release the engagement of the engagement mechanism 2 by electric force, a first electric switching mechanism (second operating mechanism of the actuator device) 6 that switches by electric force between a double lock state that maintains the locked state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 and a non-double lock state that does not maintain the locked state, and a second electric switching mechanism 7 that switches between the locked state and the unlocked state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4.

[0037] The actuator device of the present invention is composed of the electric release mechanism 5 as a first operating mechanism and the first electric switching mechanism 6 as a second operating mechanism, and has the function of operating each of the engagement mechanism 2 and the locking / unlocking mechanism 4. Therefore, it should be understood that the detailed description of the configuration, operation, function, etc. of the electric release mechanism 5 and the first electric switching mechanism 6, which will be described later as components of the automobile door latch device 1, also serves as a description of one embodiment of the actuator device of the present invention.

[0038] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the engagement mechanism 2 is pivotally supported by a latch shaft 24 within a body 8 fixed inside the door, and includes a latch 21 that engages with a striker (not shown) on the vehicle body side when the door is closed, a ratchet 22 that is pivotally supported by a ratchet shaft 25 within the body 8 and engages with the latch 21 that is engaged with the striker, thereby preventing the latch 21 from rotating and holding the door in the closed position, and a ratchet lever 23 (see Figures 2 and 3) that can rotate integrally with the ratchet 22.

[0039] 1 around the pivot 25, the ratchet 22 disengages from the latch 21, allowing the door to be opened. In this embodiment, the ratchet 22 and the ratchet lever 23 are separate bodies, but this is not limiting, and the ratchet 22 and the ratchet 23 may be integrally configured.

[0040] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the manual release mechanism 3 has an outside lever 31 that is linked to the mechanical operation of an outside handle (not shown) provided on the exterior side of the door, and an inside lever 32 that is linked to the mechanical operation of an inside handle (not shown) provided on the interior side of the door.

[0041] The outside lever 31 is pivotally supported by a pivot 901 in the front-to-rear direction on the housing 9 fixed to the body 8, and rotates in the release direction (clockwise in FIG. 2) around the pivot 901 in conjunction with the mechanical operation of the outside handle. If the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the unlocked state, the rotational movement of the outside lever 31 is transmitted to the ratchet 22 via the ratchet lever 23 as described below, but if the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the locked state, the rotational movement is not transmitted to the ratchet 22 as described below.

[0042] The inside lever 32 is pivotally supported on the housing 9 by a pivot 902 extending in the vehicle interior / exterior direction, and rotates clockwise in FIG. 3 around the pivot 902 as the rotation center in conjunction with the mechanical movement of the inside handle. The rotational movement of the inside lever 32 is transmitted directly to the outside lever 31. Therefore, the mechanical movement of the inside handle is transmitted to the ratchet 22 when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the unlocked state, and is not transmitted to the ratchet 22 when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the locked state. The left side surface of the housing 9 facing the vehicle interior is covered by a cover 9a as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.

[0043] The locking / unlocking mechanism 4 includes a lock lever 41 pivotally supported on the housing 9 by a pivot 903, an open link 42 connected to the lock lever 41, and an active lever 43 pivotally supported on the housing 9 by a pivot 904.

[0044] The lock lever 41 is rotatable in the front-rear direction around a pivot 903, and can be rotated clockwise by a predetermined angle from an unlocked position (see FIG. 22) in which the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in an unlocked state to a locked position (see FIG. 4) in which the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a locked state, and vice versa, by rotation of a rotating member (rotating cam) 52 (described later) by the power of a first drive actuator (first motor) 51 (described later), manual operation of a key cylinder provided on the exterior side of the door using a key, or rotation of a sector gear 72 by the power of a second drive actuator (second motor) 71 (described later). A protruding input portion 41a (see FIG. 6) on which a switching member (switching lever) 63 of a first electric switching mechanism 6 (described later) acts is provided on the central portion of the lock lever 41, on the side of the rotating cam 52.

[0045] A key lever 45, which is pivotally supported on the housing 9 and pivots about a pivoting portion 45a in conjunction with rotation of the key cylinder using a key, is connected to the upper end of the lock lever 41. The key lever 45 is connected to the lock lever 41 via a sub-key lever 46 pivotally supported below it. As a result, in an emergency situation in which the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 cannot be switched by the power of a second drive actuator (second motor) 71 (described later) due to a drop in battery voltage or the like, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 can be switched from the locked state or double-locked state to the unlocked state, and also from the unlocked state to the locked state, by manual operation using a key. Note that in this embodiment, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is set to the unlocked state by the power of the second motor 71, allowing the door to be opened. Therefore, operation of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 using a key is generally not performed unless an emergency occurs.

[0046] The open link 42 has an upper portion rotatably connected to the lower portion of the lock lever 41 and slidably in the vertical direction, and a lower end portion rotatably connected to the connecting portion 31a, which is the end portion of the outside lever 31, in the front-to-rear direction by a predetermined angle. As a result, when the lock lever 41 rotates from the unlock position (see FIG. 22) to the lock position (see FIG. 4), or from the lock position to the unlock position, the open link 42 rotates in conjunction with this, with the connecting portion 31a as the rotation center, by a predetermined angle counterclockwise from the unlock position to the lock position, or from the lock position to the unlock position.

[0047] When the lock lever 41 and the open link 42 are in the unlocked position (see FIG. 22), if the outside lever 31 rotates based on the operation of the outside handle or the inside handle through mechanical movement, the open link 42 moves straight upward from the unlocked position, and the release portion 42a provided on the open link 42 abuts from below against the end portion 23a of the ratchet lever 23. As a result, the ratchet lever 23 and the ratchet 22 rotate in the release direction, and the meshing of the meshing mechanism 2 is released.

[0048] When the lock lever 41 and the open link 42 are in the locked position (see FIG. 4), even if the outside lever 31 rotates based on operation by the mechanical action of the outside handle or inside handle, the open link 42 is guided diagonally upward and forward by the lock lever 41, so the release portion 42a of the open link 42 does not come into contact with the end 23a of the ratchet lever 23. Therefore, because the ratchet lever 23 and the ratchet 22 do not rotate in the release direction, the door cannot be opened by operating the mechanical action of the outside handle or inside handle.

[0049] The active lever 43 is pivotally supported at approximately the center in the vertical direction to the housing 9 by a pivot 904, and a connecting shaft 43a provided at the upper end is connected to a curved elongated hole 41b provided at the bottom of the lock lever 41 so that the active lever 43 can move up and down and rotate. As a result, the active lever 43 rotates in response to the rotation of the lock lever 41, and when the lock lever 41 is in the locked position, it is elastically held in the locked position shown in FIG. 4, and when the lock lever 41 is in the unlocked position, it is elastically held in the unlocked position shown in FIG. 22, which is rotated a predetermined angle clockwise from the locked position. The active lever 43 is elastically held in the locked and unlocked positions by the elastic force of a spring 44 acting on the active lever 43. The holding force of the spring 44, which elastically holds the active lever 43 in each position, is also transmitted to the lock lever 41.

[0050] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the electric release mechanism 5 has a first drive actuator (first motor: actuator for driving the actuator device) 51 supported by the housing 9, a rotating member (rotating cam: two-way operating member of the actuator device) 52 composed of a worm wheel that is engaged with a worm gear 51a that rotates integrally with the rotating shaft of the first motor 51 and can rotate forward and backward around a pivot 905 based on the power of the first motor 51, and a release member (open lever: operating member of the actuator device) 54 that can rotate counterclockwise around a pivot 906 as the rotating cam 52 rotates in the forward direction (first direction: clockwise in Figure 4) from the reference position shown in Figure 4.

[0051] The first motor 51 rotates forward when a sensor (not shown) detects the initial mechanical movement of the outside handle or when the user's portable wireless operation switch and transmitter is operated to unlock, and rotates reverse when the wireless operation switch and transmitter is operated to lock. Note that the sensor detection is valid only when the wireless operation switch and transmitter is authenticated by an authentication device installed in the vehicle.

[0052] The rotating cam 52 is pivotally supported on the housing 9 by a pivot 905 facing inward and outward, has a circular first rotating surface 52a facing the inside of the vehicle and a circular second rotating surface 52b facing the outside of the vehicle, and is elastically held in a reference position shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, for example, by the biasing force of a return biasing member (spring) 53 provided on the back side (second rotating surface 52b side) of the rotating cam 52. One end of the spring 53 is supported by the housing 9, and the other end is supported by a holding portion 52d provided on the outside of a cylindrical wall portion 52c that protrudes perpendicularly from the second rotating surface 52b of the rotating cam 52. When the first motor 51 rotates forward, the rotating cam 52 rotates in the forward direction (clockwise in Figure 4: first direction) from the reference position against the biasing force of the spring 53, and when the first motor 51 rotates reversely, the rotating cam 52 rotates in the reverse direction (counterclockwise in Figure 4: second direction) from the reference position against the biasing force of the spring 53. After rotating in the forward or reverse direction, when power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, the rotating cam 52 reverses due to the biasing force of the spring 53 and returns to the reference position.

[0053] The rotating cam 52 has a cam portion 52e on the first rotating surface 52a that acts on the open lever 54, and an operating portion 52f on the second rotating surface 52b that supports the transmission member 61 of the first electric switching mechanism 6 in a manner that allows it to be engaged and disengaged.

[0054] The open lever 54 is pivotally supported on the cover 9a on the side of the first rotation surface 52a of the rotating cam 52 by a pivot 906 extending in the vehicle interior / exterior direction, and is elastically held in a reference position shown in Fig. 4 by the biasing force of a spring 55. The open lever 54 has a first arm portion 54a extending forward so as to overlap the first rotation surface 52a of the rotating cam 52, and a second arm portion 54b extending rearward and acting on the ratchet lever 23. One end of the spring 55 is supported on the inner surface of the cover 9a, and the other end is supported on the end of the second arm portion 54b.

[0055] The cam portion 52e of the rotating cam 52 is provided on the front rotation surface (first rotation surface) 52a of the rotating cam 52 so as to protrude like a wall toward the vehicle interior. The starting end of the cam portion 52e is provided in a position close to the end of the first arm portion 54a of the open lever 54 when the rotating cam 52 is in the reference position. The cam portion 52e extends in an arc shape whose distance from the pivot shaft 905 varies over an angular range of approximately 270 degrees in the counterclockwise direction (second direction) in FIGS. 2 to 4 from the starting end, and after extending so that the distance from the pivot shaft 905 gradually increases from the starting end, the cam portion 52e has a distalmost portion 520e (see FIG. 6) at approximately the middle portion.

[0056] When the rotating cam 52 rotates in a first direction (clockwise) from the reference position (see Figure 4) against the biasing force of the spring 53, the arcuate surface of the cam portion 52e contacts the first arm portion 54a of the open lever 54 from above, as shown in Figure 8, thereby pushing down the first arm portion 54a and rotating the open lever 54 in the counterclockwise direction from the reference position.

[0057] 4 from the reference position, the second arm portion 54b abuts against the arm portion 23a of the ratchet lever 23 from below, thereby rotating the ratchet 22 in the release direction and setting the engagement mechanism 2 in an unlatched state, enabling the door to be opened. In this way, the open lever 54 can operate the ratchet lever 23 independently of the open link 42. Therefore, by rotating the rotary cam 52 in the first direction from the reference position to rotate the open lever 54, the door can be opened regardless of the state of the unlocking mechanism 4, i.e., regardless of whether the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the locked state, unlocked state, double-lock state, or non-double-lock state.

[0058] At the point in time when or immediately after the rotating cam 52 rotates a predetermined angle (approximately 180 degrees in this embodiment) until the distalmost portion 520e of the cam portion 52e abuts against the first arm portion 54a of the open lever 54 so that the open lever 54 rotates the ratchet 22 in the release direction, power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped and the rotating cam 52 is reversed in the second direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 8) by the biasing force of the spring 53 and returns to the reference position. As the rotating cam 52 rotates to return to the reference position, the open lever 54 is returned to the reference position by the biasing force of the spring 55.

[0059] 3 to 7, the first electric switching mechanism 6 includes a first drive actuator (first motor) 51, a linking mechanism (52f, 61) that is actuated by rotation of the rotating cam 52 in the second direction, a switching member (switching lever) 63 that moves between first and second different positions as a result of the operation of the linking mechanism (52f, 61) being transmitted thereto, and a mechanical cam mechanism 62 that is provided between the linking mechanism (52f, 61) and the switching lever 63 and transmits the operation of the linking mechanism (52f, 61) to the switching lever 63. The linking mechanism (52f, 61) includes an operating portion 52f provided on the second rotation surface 52b of the rotating cam 52 and a transmission member 61 supported so as to be engageable with and disengageable from the operating portion 52f, and the mechanical cam mechanism 62 includes first and second gear-shaped cam members 62a, 62b that are provided on the same axis and rotate integrally.

[0060] As shown in Figures 5 and 7, when the rotating cam 52 is in the reference position, the operating portion 52f of the rotating cam 52 is provided on the rotating surface (second rotating surface) 52b on the back side of the rotating cam 52 so as to protrude rearward, i.e., toward the active lever 43, from a cylindrical wall portion 52c that protrudes vertically from the second rotating surface 52b.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the transmission member 61 is disposed so that its central portion overlaps the second rotation surface 52b of the rotation cam 52, and is supported by the operation portion 52f in a manner that allows it to be engaged with and disengaged from the operation portion 52f. As shown in Figures 4, 5 and 9, the transmission member 61 has a biasing portion 61a provided at the tip of the first arm portion extending to overlap the active lever 43, and the biasing portion 61a is pressed by a retaining biasing member (retaining spring) 64 so that its central portion abuts against the operating portion 52f, a cam pressing portion 61b provided at the tip of the second arm portion extending in the direction toward the mechanical cam mechanism 62, a first sliding portion 61c abutting against an arc-shaped guide wall 91 (see Figure 13) protruding from the inner surface of the housing 9 along the outer periphery of the rotating cam 52, a plurality of second sliding portions 61d abutting against the wall portion 52c of the rotating cam 52 (see Figures 5, 7 and 13), and a third sliding portion 61e abutting against an arc-shaped guide groove 92 provided on the inner surface of the housing 9 between the cylindrical wall portion 52c and the arc-shaped guide wall 91 (see Figure 13). One end of the retaining spring 64 is supported by the support portion 911 of the housing 9, and the other end is supported by the biasing portion 61a. The second arm portion of the transmission member 61 is supported by a slit portion 52g provided on the second rotation surface 52b of the rotation cam 52 near the vehicle interior side of a retaining portion 52d that supports the end of the spring 53.

[0062] The transmission member 61 is arranged so as to be engageable with and detachable from the operating portion 52f via its central portion, and abuts against the guide wall 91 of the housing 9, the wall portion 52c of the rotating cam 52, and the guide groove 92 of the housing 9 via the first to third sliding portions 61c, 61d, and 61e, respectively, and is supported by the slit portion 52g of the rotating cam 52 via the second arm portion.

[0063] The first and second cam members 62a, 62b of the mechanical cam mechanism 62 are integrally formed and pivotally supported on the housing 9 by a common pivot 907 extending in the vehicle interior / exterior direction above the transmission member 61, which is disposed overlapping the rotating cam 52. As shown in Fig. 10, the first cam member 62a has a plurality of engagement teeth 620a that extend radially outward from the center of rotation and have a tongue-like shape on the rotation surface. As the first cam member 62a rotates, these engagement teeth 620a sequentially mesh with the engaged portion (contact arm) 63b of the switching lever 63, rotating the switching lever 63 between the locked position and the unlocked position. A first step 621a is provided at the tip of each engagement tooth 620a, against which the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 abuts, and a second step 623a is provided at the bottom of each inter-tooth recess 622a, which has a V-shape on the rotation plane, against which the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 abuts.

[0064] 11, the second cam member 62b has a plurality of engagement teeth 620b that extend radially outward from the center of rotation and that form a mountain shape on the rotation surface. When the transmission member 61 is in a standby position (described later), these engagement teeth 620b are spaced apart from the transmission member 61, and when the transmission member 61 moves from the standby position to an associated position (described later), the engagement teeth 620b engage with and are pressed by the cam pressing portion 61b of the transmission member 61, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally. Each engagement tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b has a smaller tooth width than each engagement tooth 620a of the first cam member 62a, and the number of teeth of the second cam member 62b (six in this embodiment) is twice the number of teeth of the first cam member 62a (three in this embodiment). The first and second cam members 62a, 62b are integrally formed and stacked such that the alternating engagement teeth 620a and inter-tooth recesses 622a of the first cam member 62a are alternately arranged with respect to the plurality of engagement teeth 620b of the second cam member 62b (see FIG. 13). In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the first cam member 62a is provided with a total of six positions with which the switching lever 63, which will be described later, engages. That is, three first step portions 621a and three second step portions 623a are provided, and therefore the number of teeth of the second cam member 62b is also six.

[0065] The switching lever 63 is pivotally supported on the housing 9 by a pivot 908 extending in the vehicle interior / exterior direction, above the rotating cam 52 and in front of the mechanical cam mechanism 62, on the side of the second rotation surface 52b, and is biased by the biasing force of a spring 65 in a direction engaging with the first cam member 62a (clockwise in FIGS. 4 and 13 ). As shown in FIGS. 6 , 12 , and 13 , the switching lever 63 is provided with an operating portion 63a extending obliquely downward and rearward from a central portion thereof and abutting from below against the input portion 41a (see FIG. 6 ) of the lock lever 41, a contact arm 63b provided above the operating portion 63a and abutting against an engagement tooth 620a of the first cam member 62a, and a biasing arm 63c extending obliquely downward and frontward from a central portion thereof and supporting one end of the spring 65. The other end of the spring 65 is supported by a protrusion 910 of the housing 9 extending in the vehicle interior / exterior direction. The protrusion 910 also functions as a stopper against which the biasing arm 63c of the switching lever 63 abuts.

[0066] When the rotating cam 52 rotates from the reference position in the second direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 13) against the biasing force of the spring 53, the transmission member 61 is pushed by the operating portion 52f and moves along the guide wall 91 from the standby position shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 to the cooperation position shown in FIG. 15 while sliding against the guide wall 91 of the housing 9, the wall portion 52c of the rotating cam 52, and the guide groove 92 of the housing 9, and as it approaches the cooperation position, as shown in FIGS. 4, 14, and 15, the cam pressing portion 61b protrudes from between the wall portion 52c and the guide wall 91 and presses the engagement tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally. At this time, the retaining spring 64 presses the transmission member 61 toward the operating portion 52f and also presses the transmission member 61 so that the transmission member 61 moves along the guide wall 91, so that the transmission member 61 can reliably move along the guide wall 91, resulting in high reliability of the device.

[0067] At or immediately after the rotating cam 52 rotates the first and second cam members 62a, 62b of the mechanical cam mechanism 62, which rotate integrally, by a predetermined angle (approximately 60 degrees in this embodiment), power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, and the biasing force of the spring 53 causes the rotating cam 52 to reverse in the first direction (clockwise in FIGS. 16 and 17(a)) and return to the reference position, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17(a), (b). Accordingly, the transmission member 61 returns from the cooperation position to the standby position. Since the first electric switching mechanism 6 includes the cooperation mechanisms (52f, 61), the switching member (switching lever) 63, and the mechanical cam mechanism 62 described above, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 and the rotational cam 52 can be positioned close to each other, thereby enabling the device to be made more compact.

[0068] When the rotating cam 52 rotates in the second direction, the switching lever 63, which functions as a locking / unlocking operating member, engages with the first cam member 62a of the mechanical cam mechanism 62, which is pushed by the transmission member 61 to rotate a predetermined angle, and rotates, switching from the locking position (first position) to the unlocking position (second position) or vice versa, and when the rotating cam 52 returns to the reference position and rotates again in the second direction, it switches to rotate in the opposite direction to the previous rotation.

[0069] 4 to 7 and 22, when the switching lever 63 is in the unlocked position (second position), the acting portion 63a is separated from the input portion 41a of the lock lever 41, and the abutment arm 63b is engaged with the inter-tooth recess 622a of the engagement tooth 620a of the first cam member 62a. The switching lever 63 is biased by the biasing force of the spring 65 in a direction in which it engages with the first cam member 62a (clockwise in FIGS. 4 and 13), but when the abutment arm 63b is engaged with the inter-tooth recess 622a, this biasing force acts as a force that tries to return the switching lever 63 in a counter-rotational direction opposite to the rotational direction in which the first cam member 62a rotates the switching lever 63 (clockwise in FIGS. 4 and 13). However, since the interdental recess 622a is provided with a second step 623a (see FIG. 10) as a return stop, the sliding contact of the contact arm 63b on the interdental recess 622a can be prevented. Therefore, the first cam member 62a is not returned in the counter-rotation direction by the switching lever 63.

[0070] When the switching lever 63 is in the unlocking position (second position) and the rotating cam 52 rotates in the second direction, the transmission member 61, pressed by the operating portion 52f, moves from the standby position to the linked position and presses the engagement tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally (see FIGS. 14 to 16). The rotating first cam member 62a lifts the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 and brings it into contact with the tip of the engagement tooth 620b while sliding on the inter-tooth recess 622a (see FIGS. 14 to 15). When the first cam member 62a rotates a predetermined angle (approximately 60 degrees in this embodiment) to the locked position (first position) where the switching lever 63 abuts against the first step portion 621a (see FIG. 16), power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, and the rotating cam 52 is reversed in the first direction (clockwise in FIGS. 16 and 17(a)) by the biasing force of the spring 53 and returns to the reference position, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17(a) and (b). Accordingly, the transmission member 61 returns from the linked position to the standby position.

[0071] When the switching lever 63 is in the locked position (first position) as shown in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b), the operating portion 63a abuts the input portion 41a (see FIG. 6) of the lock lever 41 from below, and the abutment arm 63b engages with the first step portion 621a of the engagement tooth 620a of the first cam member 62a. As described above, the biasing force of the spring 65 of the switching lever 63 acts as a force that returns the first cam member 62a in the counter-rotation direction when the abutment arm 63b is engaged with the first step portion 621a. However, the tip of the engagement tooth 620a is provided with the first step portion 621a (see FIG. 10) as a return stop, which can prevent the abutment arm 63b from sliding over the tip of the engagement tooth 620a. Therefore, the first cam member 62a is not returned in the counter-rotation direction by the switching lever 63.

[0072] When the switching lever 63 is in the locked position (first position), if the rotating cam 52 rotates in the second direction, the transmission member 61, pressed by the operating portion 52f, moves from the standby position to the linked position and presses the engagement tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally (see FIGS. 18 and 19). Due to the rotation of the first cam member 62a, the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 disengages from the first step 621a (see FIG. 18), slides on the intertooth recess 622a (see FIG. 19), and then engages with the second step 623a of the intertooth recess 622a. When the first cam member 62a rotates a predetermined angle (approximately 60 degrees in this embodiment) to the unlock position (second position) where the switching lever 63 engages with the second step portion 623a, power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, and the biasing force of the spring 53 causes the rotating cam 52 to reverse in the first direction and return to the reference position. Accordingly, the transmission member 61 returns from the interlocking position to the standby position (see FIG. 4). As described above, the first step portion 621a is provided on all of the engagement teeth 620a of the first cam member 62a, and the second step portion 623a is provided on all of the inter-tooth recesses 622a. Therefore, the first and second step portions 621a and 623a, each of which is present at three locations in this embodiment, act on the switching lever 63 in the same manner.

[0073] 17(a) and 17(b), when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the locked state and the switching lever 63 is in the locked position (first position), i.e., when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the double-locked state, if the key cylinder is rotated by manual operation using a key, the sub-key lever 46 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the key lever 45, shifting the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 toward the unlocked position (see FIG. 22). At this time, the claw 46a on the sub-key lever 46 presses the engagement tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b, causing the first and second cam members 62a and 62b to rotate integrally (see FIGS. 20 and 21). As the first cam member 62a rotates, the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 disengages from the first step 621a (see FIG. 20), slides over the intertooth recess 622a (see FIG. 19), and engages with the second step 623a (see FIG. 10) of the intertooth recess 622a. Furthermore, as the sub-key lever 46 rotates, the abutment portion 46b of the sub-key lever 46 abuts against the engagement portion 41c of the lock lever 41, switching the lock lever 41 to the unlocked position and transitioning the active lever 43 and open link 42 to the unlocked state. As a result, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is switched to the unlocked position, and the switching lever 63 is returned to the unlocked position (second position). In this way, by using the key, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 can be switched from the double-locked state to the non-double-locked state and from the locked state to the unlocked state. As mentioned above, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is generally not operated using a key unless an emergency occurs.

[0074] The second electric switching mechanism 7 has a second drive actuator (second motor) 71, a sector gear 72 pivoted to the housing 9 by a pivot 909 extending in the vehicle interior / exterior direction, and a connecting rod 73 pivoted to a connecting shaft 72a at the end of the sector gear 72 and a connecting portion 43b at the lower part of the active lever 43.

[0075] The sector gear 72 rotates in the forward direction (clockwise in FIG. 2) when the second motor 71 rotates forward, and rotates in the reverse direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 2) when the second motor 71 rotates reversely. Accordingly, the connecting rod 73 moves the active lever 43 from the locked position to the unlocked position and in the reverse direction against the biasing force of the spring 44, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the locked state to the unlocked state and in the reverse direction.

[0076] The following describes the operation of the automobile door latch device 1. As mentioned above, it should be understood that the following description also includes a description of the operation of the actuator device of the present invention.

[0077] <When the door is opened by the first electric switching mechanism 6 regardless of the state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4> By rotating the pivoting cam 52 in a first direction from the reference position and rotating the open lever 54, the door can be opened regardless of the state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4, i.e., regardless of whether the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a locked state, an unlocked state, a double-locked state or a non-double-locked state.

[0078] For example, when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a locked state but not in a double-locked state as shown in Figures 4 to 7, the first motor 51 is driven to rotate the rotating cam 52 against the biasing force of the spring 53 from the reference position (see Figure 4) in a first direction (clockwise) by a predetermined angle (approximately 180 degrees in this embodiment) until the distalmost portion 520e of the cam portion 52e abuts the first arm portion 54a of the open lever 54. As shown in Figure 8, the arc surface of the cam portion 52e contacts the first arm portion 54a of the open lever 54 from above, pushing down the first arm portion 54a and rotating the open lever 54 in a counterclockwise direction from the reference position. As a result, the second arm portion 54b of the open lever 54 abuts the arm portion 23a of the ratchet lever 23 from below, rotating the ratchet 22 in the release direction and setting the engagement mechanism 2 to an unlatched state, allowing the door to be opened.

[0079] At or immediately after the rotating cam 52 has rotated through the above-mentioned predetermined angle to press down the first arm portion 54a of the open lever 54, power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, and the rotating cam 52 is reversed in the second direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 8) by the biasing force of the spring 53 and returns to the reference position. As the rotating cam 52 rotates to return to the reference position, the open lever 54 is returned to the reference position by the biasing force of the spring 55.

[0080] In this way, the open lever 54 can operate the ratchet lever 23 independently of the open link 42. Therefore, by rotating the rotary cam 52 in the first direction from the reference position to rotate the open lever 54, the door can be opened even when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the double lock state, i.e., when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is held in the locked position.

[0081] <When switching the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the locked state to the double-locked state> As shown in Figures 4 to 7, when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a locked state but not in a double-locked state, the switching lever 63 is in the unlocked position (second position), the acting portion 63a is separated from the input portion 41a of the lock lever 41, the abutment arm 63b is engaged with the second step portion 623a (see Figure 10) of the inter-tooth recess 622a of the first cam member 62a, and the transmission member 61 is in a standby position.

[0082] When the first motor 51 is driven to rotate the rotating cam 52 from the reference position in the second direction (counterclockwise in Figure 13) against the biasing force of the spring 53, the transmission member 61 is pushed by the operating portion 52f and moves from the standby position shown in Figures 4 and 5 to the linked position shown in Figure 15, and as shown in Figures 4, 14 and 15, the cam pressing portion 61b presses the engaging tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b of the mechanical cam mechanism 62, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally (see Figures 14 to 16).

[0083] As the first cam member 62a rotates, it lifts the contact arm 63b of the switching lever 63 and slides it over the inter-tooth recess 622a, causing it to come into contact with the tip of the engagement tooth 620b (see FIGS. 14-15). By rotating a predetermined angle (approximately 60 degrees in this embodiment), the switching lever 63 moves to the locked position (first position), causing the contact arm 63b to come into contact with the step 621a at the tip (see FIG. 16). When the contact arm 63b engages with the step 621a, the first cam member 62a is prevented from being returned in the counter-rotation direction by the switching lever 63, as described above.

[0084] When the switching lever 63 is rotated to the locking position (first position), as shown in Figures 17(a) and (b), the action portion 63a abuts against the input portion 41a (see Figure 6) of the lock lever 41 from below, and the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 can be placed in a double-lock state.

[0085] At the time when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 enters the double-lock state as described above, or immediately thereafter, the power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, and the rotating cam 52 is reversed in the first direction (clockwise in FIGS. 16 and 17(a)) by the biasing force of the spring 53 and returns to the reference position as shown in Figures 16, 17(a) and 17(b). Accordingly, the transmission member 61 returns from the linked position to the standby position.

[0086] <When switching the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the double lock state to the non-double lock state> As shown in Figures 17(a) and (b), when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a locked state and the switching lever 63 is in the locked position (first position), i.e., when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a double-locked state, the switching lever 63 is in the locked position (first position), the acting portion 63a engages with the input portion 41a of the lock lever 41 to hold the lock lever 41 in the locked position, thereby holding the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 in a double-locked state, the abutment arm 63b engages with the first step portion 621a of the first cam member 62a (see Figure 10), and the transmission member 61 is in a standby position.

[0087] When the first motor 51 is driven to rotate the rotating cam 52 from the reference position in the second direction (counterclockwise in Figure 13) against the biasing force of the spring 53, the transmission member 61 is pushed by the operating portion 52f and moves from the standby position to the linked position, and the cam pressing portion 61b presses the engaging tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b of the mechanical cam mechanism 62, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally (see Figures 18 and 19).

[0088] As the first cam member 62a rotates, the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 disengages from the first step 621a (see FIG. 18) and slides on the interdental recess 622a (see FIG. 19). When the first cam member 62a rotates a predetermined angle (approximately 60 degrees in this embodiment), the switching lever 63 rotates to the unlock position (second position), and the abutment arm 63b engages with the second step 623a of the interdental recess 622a. When the abutment arm 63b engages with the second step 623a, the first cam member 62a is not returned in the counter-rotation direction by the switching lever 63, as described above.

[0089] When the switching lever 63 is rotated to the unlocked position (second position), the double lock state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is released, and the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 enters a locked but non-double lock state as shown in Figures 4 to 7.

[0090] At the point when the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the non-double-lock state as described above, or immediately thereafter, power supply to the first motor 51 is stopped, and the rotating cam 52 is reversed in the first direction and returned to the reference position by the biasing force of the spring 53. Accordingly, the transmission member 61 returns from the linked position to the standby position (see FIG. 4).

[0091] <When using a key to switch the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 in the double-locked state to the unlocked state> When the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the double-lock state shown in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b), manually rotating the key cylinder using a key causes the sub-key lever 46 to rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the key lever 45, shifting the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 toward the unlocked position (see FIG. 22). At this time, the claw 46a on the sub-key lever 46 presses the engagement tooth 620b of the second cam member 62b, causing the first and second cam members 62a, 62b to rotate integrally (see FIGS. 20 and 21). Due to the rotation of the first cam member 62a, the abutment arm 63b of the switching lever 63 disengages from the first step 621a (see FIG. 20), slides over the inter-tooth recess 622a (see FIG. 19), and engages with the second step 623a of the inter-tooth recess 622a (see FIG. 10). Furthermore, as the sub-key lever 46 rotates, the contact portion 46b of the sub-key lever 46 contacts the engagement portion 41c of the lock lever 41, converting the lock lever 41 to the unlocked position and transitioning the active lever 43 and open link 42 to the unlocked state.

[0092] As a result, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is switched to the unlock position, and the switching lever 63 is returned to the unlock position (second position). In this way, by using the key, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 can be switched from the double lock state to the non-double lock state, and from the locked state to the unlocked state. As mentioned above, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is generally not operated using a key unless an emergency occurs.

[0093] <When switching the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the locked state to the unlocked state> When the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in a locked state but not in a double-locked state, the second motor 71 is driven to rotate the sector gear 72 in the forward direction (clockwise in FIG. 2 ), and the connecting rod 73 is pulled forward (see FIG. 2 ). This moves the active lever 43 from the locked position to the unlocked position against the biasing force of the spring 44, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the locked state to the unlocked state. Therefore, the second electric switching mechanism 7 can quickly switch the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the locked state to the unlocked state in an emergency, etc. Switching from the locked state to the unlocked state using the second electric switching mechanism 7 can shorten the operating time of the drive actuator, thereby reducing the NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) of the vehicle.

[0094] Also, when the key cylinder is rotated by manual operation using a key, the sub-key lever 46 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the key lever 45, and in the same manner as described above, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4, which is in a non-double lock state, can be converted toward the unlock position.

[0095] <When switching the locking mechanism 4 from the unlocked state to the locked state> When the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is in the unlocked state, the second motor 71 is driven to rotate the sector gear 72 in the reverse direction, and the active lever 43 is moved from the unlocked position to the locked position against the biasing force of the spring 44, thereby converting the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 from the unlocked state to the locked state.

[0096] Also, when the key cylinder is rotated by manual operation using a key, the sub-key lever 46 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the key lever 45, and the locking / unlocking mechanism 4, which is in the unlocked state, can be converted toward the locked position.

[0097] As a result of the above, the actuator device of the present invention has the following advantages (1) to (5). (1) By configuring the device so that a first operation (an operation to release the engagement of the engagement mechanism 2) is performed by operating the two-way operating member (rotating cam 52) in a first direction, and a second operation (an operation on the locking / unlocking mechanism 4) is performed by operating the switching member (switching lever 63) in a second direction to move the member between the first and second positions, operation in the first direction only operates the first operating mechanism (electric release mechanism 5), and operation in the second direction only operates the second operating mechanism (first electric switching mechanism 6) that requires switching operation. This eliminates the need to operate the second operating mechanism (first electric switching mechanism 6) that requires switching operation separately in the first and second directions, simplifying the structure and making the device more compact. (2) By arranging the operating member (open lever 54) on the first rotating surface 52a side and the switching member (switching lever 63) on the second rotating surface 52b side, the first and second operations (the operation to release the engagement of the engagement mechanism 2 and the operation on the locking / unlocking mechanism 4) can be performed with a single rotating member (rotating cam 52), thereby simplifying the structure and making the device smaller. (3) By arranging a portion of the transmission member 61 so that it overlaps the rotation surface 52b of the rotating member (rotating cam 52) and supporting it on the operating portion 52f provided on the rotating member (rotating cam 52), there is no need to provide a structure to support the transmission member 61, and the structure can be simplified while ensuring that the driving force of the drive actuator (first motor 51) is reliably transmitted to the switching member by the transmission member 61. (4) By arranging the rotating member (rotating cam 52) and the transmission member 61 in an overlapping configuration, the object of the second operation (locking / unlocking mechanism 4) and the rotating member (rotating cam 52) can be brought close to each other, thereby making it possible to miniaturize the device. (5) By making the engagement teeth 620b of the second cam member 62b have a smaller tooth width than the engagement teeth 620a of the first cam member 62a and making them have a mountain-like shape on the rotation surface, the transmission member 61 can move from the linked position to the standby position without interfering with the second cam member 62b after pressing the second cam member 62b.This makes it possible to perform the first and second operations (the operation to release the engagement of the engagement mechanism 2 and the operation on the locking / unlocking mechanism 4) in a space-saving manner, and allows the device to be made smaller.

[0098] The vehicle door lock device of the present invention also has the following advantages (1) to (6). (1) An operation to release the engagement of the engaging mechanism 2 is performed by operating the rotating member (rotating cam 52) in a first direction, and when the rotating member (rotating cam 52) is operated in a second direction, the switching member (switching lever 63) is moved between a first and a second position to switch the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 between a locked state and an unlocked state, or between a state in which the switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is disabled and a state in which it is enabled.By this configuration, when operated in the first direction, only the operation is performed on the engaging mechanism 2, and when operated in the second direction, only the operation on the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 that requires switching operation can be performed.Since there is no need to perform the operation on the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 that requires switching operation separately in the first and second directions, the structure can be simplified and the device can be made smaller. (2) By arranging the release member (open lever 54) on the first rotating surface 52a side and the locking / unlocking operation member (switching lever 63) on the second rotating surface 52b side, a single rotating member (rotating cam 52) can be used to operate the engagement mechanism 2 and the locking / unlocking mechanism 4, thereby simplifying the structure and making the device smaller. (3) By arranging a portion of the transmission member 61 so that it overlaps the rotation surface 52b of the rotating member (rotating cam 52) and supporting it on the operating portion 52f provided on the rotating member (rotating cam 52), there is no need to provide a structure to support the transmission member 61, and the structure can be simplified while ensuring that the driving force of the drive actuator (first motor 51) is transmitted to the switching member by the transmission member 61. (4) By arranging the rotating member (rotating cam 52) and the transmission member 61 in an overlapping configuration, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 and the rotating member (rotating cam 52) can be placed close to each other, thereby making it possible to miniaturize the device. (5) By making the engagement teeth 620b of the second cam member 62b have a smaller tooth width than the engagement teeth 620a of the first cam member 62a and making them have a mountain-like shape on the rotation surface, the transmission member 61 can move from the linked position to the standby position without interfering with the second cam member 62b after pressing the second cam member 62b, thereby making it possible to operate the engagement mechanism 2 and the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 in a space-saving manner and making the device more compact. (6) By using the second electric switching mechanism 7, the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 can be quickly switched from a locked state to an unlocked state in an emergency, etc., and the operating time of the drive actuator when quickly switching from a locked state to an unlocked state can be shortened, thereby reducing the NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) of the vehicle.

[0099] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and various modifications may be made within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the first electric switching mechanism 6 is described as a mechanism for switching between a double-lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is maintained in a locked state and a non-double-lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism 4 is not maintained in a locked state by electric force, but the configuration of the first electric switching mechanism 6 can also be applied as a mechanism for switching between the locked state and the unlocked state of the locking / unlocking mechanism 4.

[0100] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the actuator device of the present invention was applied to a door latch device for an automobile, but the actuator device of the present invention can also be applied as an actuator device for other devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1. Automobile door latch device 2...Matching mechanism 21. Latch 22. Ratchet 23 Ratchet lever 23a Arm section 24 Latch shaft 25 Ratchet shaft 3. Manual release mechanism 31 Outside lever 31a...Connection part 32 Inside lever 4. Locking / unlocking mechanism 41 Lock lever 41a Input section 41b...long hole 41c...Engagement part 42. Open Link 42a···Release section 43 Active lever 43a...Connection shaft 43b...Connection part 44···Spring 45···Key lever 45a Rotating part 46 Sub key lever 46a...Claw part 46b...Abutting part 5. Electric release mechanism (first operating mechanism of actuator device) 51: First driving actuator (first motor: actuator for driving the actuator device) 51a···Worm gear 52... Rotating member (rotating cam: two-way operating member of actuator device) 52a... First rotation surface 52b... Second rotation surface 52c...Wall part 52d...Holding part 52e Cam section 520e...Distalmost part 52f...Operation unit 52g...slit section 53 Return biasing member (spring) 54....Release member (open lever: operating member of actuator device) 54a First arm 54b Second arm section 55···Spring 6. First electric switching mechanism (second operating mechanism of actuator device) 61 Transmission member 61a...Biasing part 61b Cam pressing part 61c···First sliding part 61d Second sliding part 61e Third sliding part 62 Mechanical Cam Mechanism 62a... First cam member 620a Engagement teeth 621a First step 622a···Interdental recess 623a Second step 62b... Second cam member 620b...Engaging tooth 63....Switching member (switching lever (locking / unlocking operation member)) 63a...Action part 63b Engaged portion (contact arm) 63c···Energy arm 64... Retaining biasing member (retaining spring) 65···Spring 7. Second electric switching mechanism 71 Second drive actuator (second motor) 71a···Worm gear 72 Sector gear 72a...Connection shaft 73 Connecting rod 8. Body 9. Housing 91 Guide wall 92 Guide groove 901,902,903,904,905,906,907,908,909...Axis 910...Protrusion 911...Support part 9a···Cover

Claims

1. An actuator device that operates in two directions using a single driving actuator, a two-way operating member that operates in first and second different directions against the biasing force of the return biasing member by the power of the drive actuator, with a neutral position maintained by the return biasing member as a reference position; and a first operating mechanism that performs a first operation by actuating the two-way operating member in the first direction; a second operating mechanism that performs a second operation different from the first operation by actuation of the two-way actuating member in the second direction, the second operating mechanism including a linking mechanism that is actuated by actuation of the two-way actuating member, and a switching member that moves between first and second different positions by transmitting the actuation of the linking mechanism; when the first operation mechanism is operated, the two-way operation member is operated from the reference position in the first direction by the power of the drive actuator against the biasing force of the return biasing member to operate the first operation mechanism, and then operates to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; When the second operating mechanism is actuated, the two-way actuating member: a first switching operation in which the driving actuator is actuated from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, thereby switching the switching member from the first position to the second position via the linkage mechanism, and then operating to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; a second switching operation in which the driving actuator is actuated from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, thereby switching the switching member from the second position to the first position via the linkage mechanism, and then operating to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; and thereby switching the switching member between the first and second positions.

2. the two-way actuating member is a rotating member rotatably supported by a pivot, and is rotatable by power of the drive actuator against the biasing force of the return biasing member in a first rotation direction, which is one of a forward direction and a reverse direction, from the reference position, and in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction; the first operation mechanism is provided with an operation member that performs the first operation, the operation member being rotatably supported by a pivot, and that is pressed by a cam portion provided on the rotation member to rotate when the rotation member rotates in the first rotation direction, the linking mechanism of the second operation mechanism is a mechanism that is actuated by rotation of the rotating member in the second rotation direction, and includes an operating portion provided on the rotating member, and a transmission member that is engageable with and disengageable from the operating portion, and that moves from a standby position to a linking position when the rotating member rotates in the second rotation direction, and moves from the linking position to the standby position when the rotating member returns to the reference position, When the second operating mechanism is actuated, the rotating member a first switching operation in which the switching member is rotated from the reference position in the second rotation direction and the operation unit moves the transmission member from the standby position to the linked position, thereby switching the switching member from the first position to the second position, and then returning the switching member to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; a second switching operation in which the switching member is rotated from the reference position in the second rotation direction and the operation unit moves the transmission member from the linked position to the standby position, thereby switching the switching member from the second position to the first position, and then operating to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; 2. The actuator device of claim 1, wherein the switching member is switched between the first and second positions.

3. the cam portion is provided on a first rotation surface which is one of the rotation surfaces of the rotation member, and the operation member is disposed on the first rotation surface side of the rotation member, 3. The actuator device according to claim 2, wherein the operating portion is provided on a second rotation surface which is the other rotation surface of the rotating member, the transmission member is arranged so that a portion of it overlaps the second rotation surface and is capable of being engaged with and disengaged from the operating portion, and the switching member is arranged on the second rotation surface side.

4. 3. The actuator device according to claim 2, wherein the second operation mechanism includes a mechanical cam mechanism having first and second gear-shaped cam members that are coaxially arranged between the linking mechanism and the switching member and rotate integrally, the first cam member having a plurality of engagement teeth extending radially outward from a center of rotation that sequentially mesh with engaged portions provided on the switching member as the first cam member rotates, thereby moving the switching member between the first and second positions, and the second cam member having a plurality of engagement teeth extending radially outward from a center of rotation that are spaced apart from the transmission member when the transmission member is at the standby position and that engage with and press cam pressing portions provided on the transmission member when the transmission member moves from the standby position to the linking position, thereby rotating the first and second cam members integrally.

5. 5. The actuator device according to claim 4, wherein each engagement tooth of the first cam member is tongue-shaped on the rotational surface and has a first step portion at its tip for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, and a second step portion is provided at the bottom of each inter-tooth recess of the first cam member for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, each engagement tooth of the second cam member is mountain-shaped on the rotational surface and has a smaller tooth width than each engagement tooth of the first cam member, the number of teeth of the second cam member is twice the number of teeth of the first cam member, and the first and second cam members are arranged overlapping each other so that the alternatingly formed engagement teeth and inter-tooth recesses of the first cam member are arranged alternately with respect to the multiple engagement teeth of the second cam member.

6. A vehicle door lock device comprising the actuator device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, an engagement mechanism that holds the door in a closed position by engaging with a striker provided on the vehicle body; a manual release mechanism that releases the engagement of the engagement mechanism by a manual operating force; a locking / unlocking mechanism that switches between a locked state in which the operation of the manual release mechanism cannot be transmitted to the engaging mechanism and the engaging mechanism cannot be released, and an unlocked state in which the operation of the manual release mechanism can be transmitted to the engaging mechanism and the engaging mechanism can be released, the actuator device has, as the first operation mechanism, an electric release mechanism that releases the engagement of the engagement mechanism by power of the drive actuator, the second operation mechanism of the actuator device is an electric switching mechanism having a first switching function of switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between the locked state and the unlocked state, or a second switching function of switching the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism between a disabled state and an enabled state, the electric switching mechanism being operated by the power of the drive actuator which is also used for the electric release mechanism; the electric release mechanism and the electric switching mechanism are provided with a common rotating member as the two-way actuating member of the actuator device, the rotating member being rotatably supported by a pivot and being rotatable by power of the drive actuator in a first rotating direction, which is one of a forward direction and a reverse direction, from the reference position against the biasing force of the return biasing member, and in a second rotating direction opposite to the first rotating direction; the electric switching mechanism includes, as the linking mechanism of the actuator device, a linking mechanism that is actuated by the rotation of the rotating member in the second rotation direction, and includes, as the switching member of the actuator device, a switching member that moves between first and second different positions by the transmission of the operation of the linking mechanism; When the electric release mechanism is operated, the rotating member is rotated in the first direction by the power of the drive actuator against the biasing force of the return biasing member to release the meshing of the meshing mechanism, and then operates to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member, When the electric switching mechanism is operated, the rotating member a first switching operation in which the driving actuator rotates from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, thereby switching the switching member from the first position to the second position via the linkage mechanism, and then operates to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; a second switching operation in which the driving actuator is actuated from the reference position in the second direction against the biasing force of the return biasing member, thereby switching the switching member from the second position to the first position via the linkage mechanism, and then operating to return to the reference position by the biasing force of the return biasing member; and and thereby, by switching the switching member between the first and second positions, the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism is switched between the locked state and the unlocked state, or the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism is switched between a state in which switching is disabled and a state in which switching is enabled.

7. the electric release mechanism has a release member that is pressed by a cam portion provided on the rotating member to rotate and release the engagement of the engagement mechanism when the rotating member rotates in the first direction, the linking mechanism of the electric switching mechanism includes an operation unit provided on the rotating member, and a transmission member that is engageable with and disengageable from the operation unit, the transmission member moving from a standby position to a linking position when the rotating member rotates in the second direction, and moving from the linking position to the standby position when the rotating member returns to the reference position, The vehicle door lock device of claim 6, wherein the switching member of the electric switching mechanism is a locking / unlocking operation member that, when the electric switching mechanism has the first switching function, rotates between a locking position that maintains the locking / unlocking mechanism in the locked state and an unlocking position that maintains the locking / unlocking mechanism in the unlocked state by movement of the transmission member between the standby position and the linked position, and when the electric switching mechanism has the second switching function, the switching member is a locking / unlocking operation member that, when the electric switching mechanism has the second switching function, rotates between a locking position that disables switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism and an unlocking position that enables switching of the operating state of the locking / unlocking mechanism by movement of the transmission member between the standby position and the linked position.

8. the cam portion is provided on a first rotation surface which is one of the rotation surfaces of the rotation member, and the release member is disposed on the first rotation surface side of the rotation member, The vehicle door lock device described in claim 7, characterized in that the operating portion is provided on a second rotating surface which is the other rotating surface of the rotating member, the transmission member is arranged so that a portion of it overlaps the second rotating surface and is capable of engaging and disengaging with the operating portion, and the locking / unlocking operating member is arranged on the second rotating surface side.

9. 8. The vehicle door lock device according to claim 7, wherein the electric switching mechanism includes a mechanical cam mechanism having first and second gear-shaped cam members arranged coaxially between the linking mechanism and the switching member and rotating integrally therewith, the first cam member having a plurality of engagement teeth extending radially outward from a rotation center thereof, the plurality of engagement teeth sequentially meshing with engaged portions provided on the switching member as the first cam member rotates to move the switching member between the locked position and the unlocked position, and the second cam member having a plurality of engagement teeth extending radially outward from a rotation center thereof, the plurality of engagement teeth being spaced apart from the transmission member when the transmission member is in the standby position, and engaging and pressing against cam pressing portions provided on the transmission member when the transmission member moves from the standby position to the linking position, causing the first and second cam members to rotate integrally.

10. 10. The vehicle door lock device according to claim 9, wherein each engagement tooth of the first cam member has a tongue-like shape on the rotational surface, a first step portion at its tip for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, and a second step portion at the bottom of each inter-tooth recess of the first cam member for engaging the engaged portion of the switching member, each engagement tooth of the second cam member has a mountain-like shape on the rotational surface, a tooth width smaller than that of each engagement tooth of the first cam member, the number of teeth of the second cam member is twice the number of teeth of the first cam member, and the first and second cam members are overlapped so that the alternatingly formed engagement teeth and inter-tooth recesses of the first cam member are arranged alternately with respect to the multiple engagement teeth of the second cam member.

11. The second rotation surface of the rotating member faces an inner surface of a housing that accommodates the locking / unlocking mechanism, the electric release mechanism, and the electric switching mechanism, the rotating member is provided with a wall portion that protrudes perpendicularly from the second rotation surface, a guide wall is provided on the inner surface of the housing, and a guide groove is formed on the inner surface of the housing between the wall portion and the guide wall, the transmission member is provided with an urging portion that supports a holding urging member, and the urging portion is pressed by the holding urging member so that a central portion of the transmission member abuts against the operation portion, and a sliding portion that abuts against a guide groove of the housing, The vehicle door lock device according to claim 8, characterized in that the transmission member is arranged between the wall portion and the guide wall so as to be able to engage and disengage with the operating portion, and when the rotating member rotates in the second direction, it is pushed by the operating portion and moves from the standby position to the linked position while sliding against the guide groove of the housing and the second rotating surface of the rotating member, and as it approaches the linked position, a cam pressing portion provided on the transmission member protrudes from between the wall portion and the guide wall.

12. The guide wall of the housing is provided along the outer periphery of the rotating member, the transmission member is provided with a sliding portion that contacts the wall portion and a sliding portion that contacts the guide wall, the retaining biasing member presses the transmission member toward the operation portion and presses the transmission member so that the transmission member moves along the guide wall, The vehicle door lock device of claim 11, characterized in that when the transmission member is in the standby position, it abuts against the wall portion and the guide wall, and when the rotating member rotates in the second direction, it is pushed by the operating portion, sliding against the guide groove of the housing and the second rotating surface of the rotating member, and moving from the standby position to the linked position while sliding against the guide wall.

13. The electric switching mechanism has, as the second switching function, a function of switching between a double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is maintained in the locked state and a non-double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is not maintained, The vehicle door lock device according to claim 6, characterized in that, when the electric switching mechanism is activated, the switching member is switched between the first and second positions, thereby switching the locking / unlocking mechanism between the double lock state and the non-double lock state.

14. The electric switching mechanism has, as the second switching function, a function of switching between a double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is maintained in the locked state and a non-double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is not maintained, The vehicle door lock device according to claim 6, characterized in that the vehicle door lock device is provided with another electric switching mechanism having the first switching function, the electric switching mechanism including a drive actuator separate from the drive actuator.

15. 15. The vehicle door lock device according to claim 14, wherein the locking / unlocking mechanism can be switched between the locked state and the unlocked state by the other electric switching mechanism.

16. The electric switching mechanism has, as the second switching function, a function of switching between a double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is maintained in the locked state and a non-double lock state in which the locking / unlocking mechanism is not maintained, The vehicle door lock device according to claim 7, characterized in that the switching member is a locking / unlocking operating member that rotates between a locking position that maintains the locking / unlocking mechanism in the double lock state and an unlocking position that maintains the locking / unlocking mechanism in the non-double lock state by movement of the transmission member between the standby position and the linked position.

Images