Friction brake system and vehicle door support member

Abstract

This improves the operational stability of a friction brake device that can apply rotational resistance to a rotating member. [Solution] The friction brake device 40 comprises a slip rotor 44, a brake rotor 45, a coil spring 47, and a brake case 41. When one of the slip rotor 44 and the brake rotor 45 rotates, the wound portion 47a of the coil spring 47, which is pressed by the end portion 47b, presses against the brake case 41. When the other of the slip rotor 44 and the brake rotor 45 rotates, the wound portion 47a of the coil spring 47, which is pulled by the end portion 47b, releases or reduces the pressure on the brake case 41. A recess 46 is provided in the side portion 44e of the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44 or in the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e of the brake rotor 45 to accommodate the end portion 47b of the coil spring 47.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a friction brake device and a vehicle door support member.

Background Art

[0002] A vehicle includes a vehicle door support member that supports a back door in an open position with respect to a vehicle body. The support member includes a fixed housing attached to one of the vehicle body and the back door, and a movable housing attached to the other of the vehicle body and the back door. The support member also includes a spindle attached to the fixed housing and a spindle nut connected to the movable housing. When the movable housing moves forward and backward with respect to the fixed housing, the spindle rotates by the screwed spindle nut.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a friction brake device capable of imparting rotational resistance to a spindle (rotating member). The friction brake device includes a brake rotor, a slip rotor, and a coil spring in a case housed in a fixed housing. The slip rotor is rotatable within an angular range defined with respect to the brake rotor by a regulating groove provided in the brake rotor and is rotatable integrally with the rotating member. The coil spring includes a winding portion surrounding the brake rotor including the slip rotor, and a pair of end portions protruding from both ends of the winding portion and inserted between the brake rotor and the slip rotor. When the movable housing advances from the fixed housing, that is, when the back door is opened, the winding portion contracts in diameter to reduce the frictional resistance with the case and reduce or eliminate the rotational resistance of the rotating member. On the other hand, when the movable housing is stored in the fixed housing, that is, when the back door is closed, the winding portion expands in diameter to impart rotational resistance to the rotating member by sliding contact (frictional resistance) with the case.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

[0005] In the friction brake device described in Patent Document 1, when the slip rotor and brake rotor rotate relative to each other, the end of the coil spring is caught between the groove sidewall of the regulating groove of the slip rotor and the brake rotor, thus applying a load to the end. This can make the operation of rotating the brake rotor, slip rotor, and coil spring as a single unit unstable.

[0006] The present invention aims to improve the operational stability of a friction brake device capable of applying rotational resistance to a rotating member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a slip rotor having a base rotatable about an axis and a projection projecting radially outward from the base about the axis; a housing for rotatably housing the base and a regulating groove communicating with the housing for positioning the projection, wherein the regulating groove is open on the radially outward side and has a circumferential width about the axis that is wider than the width of the projection; a coil spring having a winding portion surrounding the brake rotor including the slip rotor and at least one end inserted between the side of the projection in the circumferential direction and the groove side wall of the regulating groove; and the slip rotor, the brake rotor and the coil spring rotating about the axis. The present invention provides a friction brake device comprising a case that can accommodate a coil spring, wherein when one of the slip rotor and the brake rotor rotates, the end of the coil spring is pressed against the case by the pressure on the end of the protruding portion and the groove side wall of the regulating groove, and when the other of the slip rotor and the brake rotor rotates, the end of the coil spring is pressed against the case by the pressure on the end of the protruding portion and the groove side wall of the regulating groove, releasing the pressure on the coil spring that is pulled by the end of the coil spring from the case or reducing the pressure force, and a recess for accommodating the end of the coil spring is provided on the side of the protruding portion or the groove side wall of the regulating groove.

[0008] A recess for accommodating the end of a coil spring is provided on the side of the protrusion of the slip rotor or on the groove side wall of the regulating groove of the brake rotor. This prevents the end of the coil spring from being pinched between the side and the groove side wall when the slip rotor and brake rotor rotate relative to each other around their axes, thereby preventing stress on the end. This improves the stability of the operation in which the brake rotor, slip rotor, and coil spring rotate as a single unit. Furthermore, it prevents excessive stress on the end of the coil spring and deterioration over time, thus preventing damage to the end. In addition, it prevents damage to the side of the protrusion of the slip rotor and the groove side wall of the regulating groove of the brake rotor by the end of the coil spring.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is a cylindrical fixed housing having a first end connected to one of the vehicle body and the door, and a second end opposite to the first end; a cylindrical movable housing having a third end connected to the other of the vehicle body and the door, the end opposite to the third end being housed in the fixed housing from the second end, and movable relative to the fixed housing in the axial direction; a spindle rotatably supported within the fixed housing; a spindle nut screwed onto the spindle and connected to the movable housing; and the fixed housing The device comprises a friction brake device housed within and connected to the spindle, the friction brake device having a slip rotor having a base rotatable around an axis and a projection projecting radially outward from the base around the axis, a housing for rotatably housing the base, and a regulating groove communicating with the housing for positioning the projection, the regulating groove having an open radial outer side and a circumferential width around the axis wider than the width of the projection, a winding portion surrounding the brake rotor including the slip rotor, and the circumferential The present invention provides a vehicle door support member comprising: a coil spring having at least one end inserted between the side of the protruding portion and the groove side wall of the regulating groove; a slip rotor; a brake rotor; and a case that rotatably houses the coil spring around its axis, wherein the slip rotor or the brake rotor is connected to the spindle, and when one of the slip rotor or the brake rotor rotates, the end is pressed against the case by the protruding portion or the groove side wall of the regulating groove, thereby applying rotational resistance to the spindle; while when the other of the slip rotor or the brake rotor rotates, the end is pressed against the case by the other of the protruding portion or the groove side wall of the regulating groove, thereby releasing or reducing the pressure on the case of the winding portion pulled by the end, thereby reducing or eliminating the rotational resistance of the spindle, and a recess for accommodating the end of the coil spring is provided in the side of the protruding portion or the groove side wall of the regulating groove.

[0010] When one of the slip rotor and brake rotor rotates, it imparts rotational resistance to the spindle, while when the other of the slip rotor and brake rotor rotates, it reduces or eliminates the rotational resistance of the spindle. For example, when using a friction brake device in an active vehicle door support member equipped with a motor, one of the slip rotor and brake rotor is connected to the spindle and the other to the motor. This reduces or eliminates rotational resistance when the spindle is rotated by the motor, and provides rotational resistance when the spindle rotates in response to the opening and closing of the door. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The present invention can improve the operational stability of a friction brake device that can impart rotational resistance to a rotating member. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] A perspective view of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle door support member using a friction brake device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A longitudinal cross-sectional view of an active support member according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the support member. [Figure 4] An exploded perspective view of the friction brake system, seen from above. [Figure 5] An exploded perspective view of the friction brake system, seen from below. [Figure 6] An exploded perspective view of the slip rotor, brake rotor, coil spring, and ring member, seen from above. [Figure 7] An exploded perspective view of the slip rotor, brake rotor, coil spring, and ring member, seen from below. [Figure 8] Bottom view of the slip rotor, brake rotor, coil spring, and ring member. [Figure 9] A bottom view showing the operating state when the slip rotor is rotated to extend the movable housing from the fixed housing. [Figure 10] Bottom view showing the operating state when the slip rotor is rotated when the movable housing is stored in the fixed housing. [Figure 11] Bottom view showing the operating state when the brake rotor rotates when the movable housing is advanced from the fixed housing. [Figure 12] Bottom view showing the operating state when the brake rotor rotates when the movable housing is stored in the fixed housing. [Figure 13] Longitudinal sectional view of the passive support member according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0014] The vehicle 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a vehicle door support device 5 that can use vehicle door support members 6A and 6B (see FIGS. 2 and 13) of the first and second embodiments using a friction brake device 40 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] In the following description, the reference numeral 6 may be used to comprehensively refer to the vehicle door support member including both of the vehicle door support members 6A and 6B. Further, in the following description, the friction brake device is simply referred to as a brake, the vehicle door support member is simply referred to as a support member, and the vehicle door support device is simply referred to as a support device.

[0016] Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, the support device 5 includes a pair of support members 6. Each individual support member 6 has one end connected to the vehicle body 2 and the other end connected to the back door (door) 3. Each individual support member 6 is driven by a motor to expand and contract in the active type, and expands and contracts following the opening and closing of the back door 3 in the passive type. In a typical support device 5, of the pair of support members 6, one is the support member 6A of the first embodiment (see FIG. 2) which is active, and the other is the support member 6B of the second embodiment (see FIG. 13) which is passive. However, both of the pair of support members 6 may be the support member 6A of the first embodiment (see FIG. 2). Also, both of the pair of support members 6 may be the support member 6B of the second embodiment (see FIG. 13). Further, of the pair of support members 6, one may be any of the support members 6A, 6B of the first and second embodiments (see FIGS. 2, 13), and the other may be a support member other than the support members 6A, 6B of the first and second embodiments. Support members other than the support members 6A, 6B are, for example, support members without brakes.

[0017] In the following description, the terms "base end" and "base end side" may be used for the end of the support member 6 that is connected to the vehicle body 2. Also, the terms "terminal end" and "terminal end side" may be used for the end of the support member 6 that is connected to the back door 3.

[0018] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, the configuration of the support member 6A according to the first embodiment using the brake 40 will be specifically described.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the support member 6A is generally slender rod-shaped and supports the back door 3 in the open position with respect to the vehicle body 2 shown in FIG. 1. The support member 6A includes a cylindrical fixed housing 10 and a cylindrical movable housing 20 that is thinner than the fixed housing 10. Further, the support member 6A includes a spindle 25, a spindle nut 27, and a coil spring 28 inside.

[0020] The movable housing 20 moves back and forth along the axis L of the support member 6A relative to the fixed housing 10. Figure 2 shows the movable housing 20 in its most protruding state relative to the fixed housing 10. The axis L coincides with the axes of the fixed housing 10, the movable housing 20, the spindle 25, the spindle nut 27, and the coil spring 28, respectively.

[0021] The fixed housing 10 is connected to the vehicle body 2 (see Figure 1) via a connecting member 11. The connecting member 11 is made up of a ball socket that can be connected in such a way that it is allowed to swing relative to the vehicle body 2 (see Figure 1). The fixed housing 10 may also be connected to the back door 3 (see Figure 1) via the connecting member 11.

[0022] The fixed housing 10 comprises a cylindrical housing portion 12 and a cylindrical extension portion 13 coaxially connected to the end 12b of the housing portion 12. The extension portion 13 is composed of a cover portion 14 and a guide portion 15, both of which are cylindrical with openings at both ends.

[0023] The housing section 12 protrudes from the connecting member 11 toward the back door 3 (see Figure 1). The base end (first end) 12a of the housing section 12 is closed by fixing with the connecting member 11. The end end 12b of the housing section 12 is open. On the end end 12b side of the housing section 12, an annular partition plate portion 12c is provided, spaced apart from the end end 12b and protruding radially inward. Of the housing section 12, the part closer to the base end 12a than the partition plate portion 12c constitutes a holding portion 12d, and the part closer to the end end 12b than the partition plate portion 12c constitutes a mounting recess 12e.

[0024] The cover portion 14 is configured to house the base end of the coil spring 28. The cover portion 14 is coaxially connected to the end 12b of the housing portion 12 and surrounds the outer circumference of the base end of the coil spring 28. The base end 14a and the end (second end) 14b of the cover portion 14 are open. Of these, the base end 14a of the cover portion 14 is provided with an annular support portion 14c that protrudes radially inward to support the base end of the coil spring 28. The biasing force of the coil spring 28 presses the support portion 14c against the end 12b of the housing portion 12 and the mounting portion 15d of the guide portion 15, which will be described later.

[0025] The guide portion 15 is configured to guide the spindle nut 27. The guide portion 15 is cylindrical with its base end 15a and end 15b open, and is located inside the coil spring 28 within the cover portion 14.

[0026] The guide portion 15 houses most (or part) of the end of the spindle 25 and the spindle nut 27. Furthermore, multiple guide grooves 15c are provided on the inner circumference of the guide portion 15 at intervals in the circumferential direction, extending in the direction of the axis L (axial direction). The guide grooves 15c prevent relative rotation of the spindle nut 27 with respect to the guide portion 15, while allowing axial movement of the spindle nut 27 relative to the guide portion 15.

[0027] The base end 15a of the guide portion 15 is provided with a mounting portion 15d that protrudes radially outward. The mounting portion 15d can be fitted into the mounting recess 12d of the housing portion 12 and is attached in a way that prevents it from being removed, for example by laser welding. A bearing 26 that rotatably supports the spindle 25 is attached to the mounting portion 15d.

[0028] Continuing to refer to Figures 2 and 3, the movable housing 20 is connected to the back door 3 (see Figure 1) via a connecting member 21. The connecting member 21 is made up of a ball socket that can be connected to allow swinging relative to the back door 3 (see Figure 1). The movable housing 20 may also be connected to the vehicle body 2 (see Figure 1) via the connecting member 21.

[0029] The movable housing 20 is axially relative to the extension 13 of the fixed housing 10 and is capable of linear movement. The movable housing 20 comprises an outer cylinder 22 and a push rod 23, both of which are cylindrical with openings at both ends.

[0030] The outer cylinder 22 is configured to house the end of the coil spring 28. The base end 22a of the outer cylinder 22 is open and housed inside the cover portion 14. The end (third end) 22b of the outer cylinder 22 is closed by fixing the connecting member 21. The end 22b of the outer cylinder 22 is provided with an annular support portion 22c that protrudes radially inward to support the end of the coil spring 28.

[0031] The push rod 23 is configured to connect the spindle nut 27 to the movable housing 20. The base end 23a of the push rod 23 is housed within the guide portion 15 and positioned between the guide portion 15 and the spindle 25. The base end 23a of the push rod 23 is provided with a guide projection 23c that can be fitted into the guide groove 15c of the guide portion 15. The engagement of the guide projection 23c and the guide groove 15c prevents the spindle nut 27 attached to the push rod 23 from rotating relative to the guide portion 15. The end 23b of the push rod 23 is closed by the fixing of the connecting member 21.

[0032] Continuing to refer to Figures 2 and 3, the spindle 25 is rotatably supported within the extension 13 by a bearing 26 located within the guide portion 15. The base end of the spindle 25 is provided with a connecting shaft portion 25a that extends into the housing portion 12 and is connected to the brake 40.

[0033] The spindle nut 27 is connected to the base end 23a of the push rod 23 and screwed onto the spindle 25. The spindle nut 27 also engages with the guide groove 15c of the guide portion 15 via the push rod 23. Alternatively, a guide projection 23c may be provided on the spindle nut 27 to directly engage with the guide groove 15c.

[0034] In the active support member 6A, when the spindle 25 is rotated by the motor 30, the spindle nut 27 moves linearly toward the end 15b or base 15a of the guide portion 15, depending on the direction of rotation. In the passive support member 6B of the second embodiment, when the back door 3 (see Figure 1) is opened and closed, the spindle nut 27 moves linearly toward the end 15b or base 15a of the guide portion 15, causing the spindle 25 to rotate in a rotational direction corresponding to the direction of linear movement.

[0035] The coil spring 28 is configured to elastically bias the movable housing 20 in the direction of advancing from the cover portion 14 of the fixed housing 10. The coil spring 28 is positioned between the cover portion 14 and the guide portion 15 of the fixed housing 10, and between the outer cylinder 22 and the push rod 23 of the movable housing 20. The base end of the coil spring 28 is supported by the support portion 14c of the cover portion 14, and the end end is supported by the support portion 22c of the outer cylinder 22, with the coil spring 28 compressed between them. The cover portion 14 of the fixed housing 10 is pressed against the housing portion 12 and the mounting portion 15d of the guide portion 15 by the coil spring 28.

[0036] Within the housing section 12 of the fixed housing 10, the motor 30, gear mechanism 35, and brake 40 are arranged adjacent to each other in order from the base end 12a to the end end 12b.

[0037] Motor 30 is a DC motor capable of forward and reverse rotation. The output shaft of motor 30 is connected to the gear mechanism 35.

[0038] As most clearly shown in Figure 2, the gear mechanism 35 is configured to reduce the rotation of the output shaft of the motor 30 and transmit it to the spindle 25. The gear mechanism 35 is housed in a housing 42b formed in the cover member 42 of the brake 40, which will be described in detail later. The gear mechanism 35 comprises two planetary gear units 36 and 37. With the motor 30 as the reference, the input side is planetary gear unit 36 ​​and the output side is planetary gear unit 37. Each of the planetary gear units 36 and 37 comprises a casing 36a and 37a with internal teeth, sun gears 36b and 37b, multiple planetary gears 36c and 37c, and planetary carriers 36d and 37d.

[0039] The output shaft of the motor 30 is connected to the sun gear 36b of the input-side planetary gear unit 36. In other words, the sun gear 36b constitutes the input section of the gear mechanism 35. Furthermore, the planetary carrier 36d of the input-side planetary gear unit 36 ​​is connected to the sun gear 37b of the output-side planetary gear unit 37. In addition, the brake 40 is connected to the planetary carrier 37d of the output-side planetary gear unit 37. In other words, the planetary carrier 37d constitutes the output section of the gear mechanism 35. The rotation of the output shaft of the motor 30 is reduced by the gear mechanism 35 and transmitted to the spindle 25 via the brake 40.

[0040] Next, the brake 40 of this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0041] Referring to Figure 2, the brake 40 is configured to reduce or eliminate rotational resistance when the spindle 25 is rotated by the driving force of the motor 30, and to provide rotational resistance when the spindle 25 rotates in response to the opening and closing of the back door 3 (see Figure 1) by manual means or other means. The brake 40 is housed in the holding portion 12d of the fixed housing 10 and is sandwiched between the partition plate portion 12c and the gear mechanism 35. The end of the brake 40 is connected to the spindle 25, and the base end of the brake 40 is connected to the motor 30 via the gear mechanism 35.

[0042] Referring to Figures 2, 4, and 5, the brake 40 comprises a brake case 41, a slip rotor 44, a brake rotor 45, and a coil spring 47. The axes of the brake case 41, slip rotor 44, brake rotor 45, and coil spring 47 coincide with the axis L of the support member 6A.

[0043] The brake case 41 is made of resin and houses the slip rotor 44, brake rotor 45, and coil spring 47 so that they can rotate around the axis L. The brake case 41 is generally polygonal and is held in place of the housing 12 so as not to rotate around the axis L by being fitted into the holding portion 12d of the housing 12. The end of the brake case 41 is provided with an end wall 41a through which the connecting shaft portion 25a of the spindle 25 passes.

[0044] The open base end of the brake case 41 is closed by a resin cover member 42. The cover member 42 has an end wall 42a with a through hole formed therein for connecting the slip rotor 44 and the gear mechanism 35. The cover member 42 also has a cylindrical housing portion 42b that protrudes from the end wall 42a toward the motor 30, which is the base end, and houses the gear mechanism 35.

[0045] The brake case 41 includes a ring member 43 inside. The outer circumference of the ring member 43 is polygonal and is mounted to the brake case 41 so as not to rotate around axis L. The inner circumference of the ring member 43 is an annular sliding contact surface 43a. The sliding contact surface 43a imparts rotational resistance to the slip rotor 44 and brake rotor 45 through sliding contact with the coil spring 47. The ring member 43 is formed of a sintered material because it is in sliding contact with the coil spring 47. If it is structurally possible to provide the sliding contact surface 43a in the brake case 41, the brake case 41 may be formed of a sintered material without providing a separate ring member 43.

[0046] Referring to Figure 2, the slip rotor 44 is rotatably housed in the brake rotor 45 and connected to the gear mechanism 35. When the motor 30 moves the movable housing 20 forward and backward, the slip rotor 44 transmits the driving force of the motor 30 to the spindle 25 via the brake rotor 45, causing the spindle 25 to rotate. On the other hand, when the spindle 25 rotates due to the manual opening and closing operation of the back door 3 (see Figure 1), the slip rotor 44 rotates in response via the brake rotor 45.

[0047] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the slip rotor 44 is made of resin and comprises a base 44a rotatable about an axis L and a projection 44d projecting radially outward from the base 44a about the axis L. The base 44a is cylindrical and comprises a connecting portion 44b for connecting to the gear mechanism 35 and a shaft hole 44c for rotatably mounting to the brake rotor 45. The connecting portion 44b is non-circular and projects from the base 44a toward the base end along the axis L. The shaft hole 44c is circular when viewed from the direction in which the axis L extends and is recessed from the end of the base 44a toward the base end. The projection 44d is fan-shaped when viewed from the direction in which the axis L extends and projects outward from the outer circumferential surface of the base 44a.

[0048] Referring to Figure 2, the brake rotor 45 is connected to the spindle 25 and is configured to rotatably house the slip rotor 44. When the motor 30 moves the movable housing 20 forward and backward, the brake rotor 45 transmits the driving force of the motor 30 to the spindle 25 via the slip rotor 44, causing the spindle 25 to rotate. On the other hand, when the spindle 25 rotates due to the manual opening and closing operation of the back door 3 (see Figure 1), the brake rotor 45 rotates together with the spindle 25, causing the slip rotor 44 to rotate in its own way.

[0049] Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the brake rotor 45 is made of resin and has a circular rotor body 45a when viewed from the direction in which the axis L extends. The radius of the rotor body 45a is the same as the radius of the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44. A connection hole 45b for connecting the connecting shaft portion 25a of the spindle 25 is provided at the end of the rotor body 45a. The connection hole 45b is a non-circular shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the connecting shaft portion 25a and is recessed from the end to the base end of the rotor body 45a.

[0050] The brake rotor 45 includes a housing portion 45c capable of accommodating the base portion 44a of the slip rotor 44. The housing portion 45c consists of a recess with a circular cross-section and is recessed from the base end to the end end of the rotor body 45a. The diameter of the housing portion 45c is as small as possible while still allowing rotation of the base portion 44a of the slip rotor 44. At the bottom of the housing portion 45c is a shaft portion 45d that rotatably supports the base portion 44a by fitting it into the shaft hole 44c of the slip rotor 44.

[0051] The brake rotor 45 further includes a regulating groove 45e capable of accommodating the protrusion 44d of the slip rotor 44. Of the regulating groove 45e, the radially inner side is spatially connected to the accommodating portion 42b, while the radially outer side is open. As a result, when the regulating groove 45e is viewed from the radially outer side, the protrusion 44d located inside is exposed. In the circumferential direction around the axis L, the angular range (width) α of the regulating groove 45e is wider than the angular range (width) β of the protrusion 44d. As a result, the brake rotor 45 and the slip rotor 44 are relatively rotatable due to the difference in the angular ranges α and β of the regulating groove 45e and the protrusion 44d. The difference between the angular range α of the regulating groove 45e and the angular range β of the protrusion 44d is greater than twice the wire diameter of the coil spring 47, and is set to a dimension that takes into account the pressure force (brake torque) on the ring member 43 by the coil spring 47, which will be described in detail later.

[0052] As shown in Figures 9 to 12, the slip rotor 44 and brake rotor 45 configured in this way come into contact with one of the pair of side portions 44e located on both sides of the protrusion 44d in the circumferential direction and one of the pair of groove side walls 45f located on both sides of the regulating groove 45e in the circumferential direction when either of the two rotations (Sca, SCB, Sea, Seb) occurs. Subsequently, the slip rotor 44 and brake rotor 45 rotate together as a single unit.

[0053] Each of the pair of side portions 44e of the slip rotor 44 is provided with a recess 46. However, the recess 46 may also be provided on each of the pair of groove side walls 45f of the brake rotor 45. Alternatively, the recess 46 may be provided on one of the pair of side portions 44e of the slip rotor 44 (for example, the right side in Figure 8) and on the other of the pair of groove side walls 45f of the brake rotor 45 (for example, the left side in Figure 8).

[0054] The recesses 46 are configured to accommodate the end 47b of the coil spring 47 when the slip rotor 44 and the brake rotor 45 rotate relative to each other. The recesses 46 are recessed in the circumferential direction to a depth greater than the wire diameter of the end 47b of the coil spring 47. The two recesses 46 are provided at different positions on one side and the other side of a pair of side portions 44e, in the direction in which the axis L extends, so as to correspond to the two ends 47b, respectively. Specifically, the recess 46 on one side (right side in Figure 8) is provided on the base end side of the projection 44d and extends from the base end to the end side. The recess 46 on the other side (left side in Figure 8) is provided on the end side of the projection 44d and extends from the end side to the base end side.

[0055] Continuing to refer to Figures 6 to 8, the coil spring 47 is configured to apply rotational resistance to the spindle 25 (see Figure 2) via the brake rotor 45, which includes the slip rotor 44, by pressing against the ring member 43, and to reduce the rotational resistance to the spindle 25 (see Figure 2) via the brake rotor 45, which includes the slip rotor 44, by reducing the pressure on the ring member 43. However, the configuration may also be such that the pressure on the ring member 43 is released and rotational resistance to the spindle 25 (see Figure 2) is eliminated by setting the angular range α of the regulating groove 45e of the brake rotor 45 and the angular range β of the protrusion 44d of the slip rotor 44. The coil spring 47 is made of metal and comprises a wound portion 47a and a pair of ends 47b.

[0056] The winding portion 47a is constructed by winding a wire in a spiral shape. When positioned within the ring member 43, the winding portion 47a surrounds the outer circumference of the brake rotor 45, including the slip rotor 44. The outer diameter of the uncompressed winding portion 47a is larger than the diameter of the sliding surface 43a of the ring member 43. The winding portion 47a is housed within the sliding surface 43a of the ring member 43 in a radially compressed state. As a result, the smallest possible resistance is applied between the winding portion 47a and the ring member 43, even when the end portion 47b is pushed or pulled in the circumferential direction, without causing relative rotation. The pressure force of the winding portion 47a, which corresponds to this resistance, is smaller than the driving force of the motor 30 and the biasing force of the coil spring 28. Therefore, the winding portion 47a can rotate relative to the ring member 43 while sliding against the sliding surface 43a via the slip rotor 44 and the brake rotor 45, due to the driving force of the motor 30 and the biasing force of the coil spring 28.

[0057] The end portions 47b are provided at both ends of the winding portion 47a and protrude linearly radially inward from the winding portion 47a. The pair of end portions 47b are positioned with a circumferential gap from the winding portion 47a, and also with a gap in the direction in which the axis L extends, corresponding to the number of turns of the winding portion 47a. The pair of end portions 47b are inserted between the side portion 44e of the protruding portion 44d in the slip rotor 44 and the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e in the brake rotor 45.

[0058] In the coil spring 47 configured in this way, when the end 47b is pressed in the winding direction of the winding portion 47a (see directions Sea, Seb), a force acts to expand the diameter of the winding portion 47a when it is pressed and unrestrained, thus increasing the pressure on the ring member 43. On the other hand, when the end 47b is pressed in the opposite direction to the winding direction of the winding portion 47a (see directions Sca, SCB), a force acts to pull the winding portion 47a and reduce its diameter, thus decreasing the pressure on the ring member 43. In this way, the pressure (resistance force) on the winding portion 47a against the ring member 43 can be increased or decreased by pushing or pulling the end 47b. Furthermore, this resistance force (brake torque) can be adjusted by changing the specifications of the coil spring 47, such as changing the number of turns and wire diameter of the winding portion 47a.

[0059] In the brake 40 configured as described above, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the rotation of the slip rotor 44 in the directions Sca and Sbc causes the protruding portion 44d to press against the end portion 47b of the coil spring 47, and the winding portion 47a, pulled by the end portion 47b, reduces the pressure force against the ring member 43. Subsequently, the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44 comes into contact with the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e in the brake rotor 45. At this time, the end portion 47b of the coil spring 47 enters the recess 46 of the slip rotor 44, so it is not pinched between the protruding portion 44d and the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e in the brake rotor 45. After that, if the force rotating the slip rotor 44 is greater than the resistance force between the winding portion 47a and the ring member 43, the slip rotor 44, brake rotor 45, and coil spring 47 rotate together with respect to the ring member 43 in the directions Sca and Sbc. In this case, the end 47b of the coil spring 47 that is not in contact with the protruding portion 44d is pulled by the frictional resistance between the winding portion 47a and the ring member 43, and comes into contact with the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e in the brake rotor 45.

[0060] On the other hand, in the brake 40, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the rotation of the brake rotor 45 in the direction Sea, Seb causes the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e to press against the end 47b of the coil spring 47, and the winding portion 47a, pressed by the end 47b, increases the pressure force against the ring member 43. Subsequently, the groove side wall 45f of the brake rotor 45 comes into contact with the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44. At this time, the end 47b of the coil spring 47 enters into the recess 46 of the slip rotor 44, so it is not pinched between the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e and the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44. After that, if the force rotating the brake rotor 45 is greater than the resistance force between the winding portion 47a and the ring member 43, the brake rotor 45, slip rotor 44, and coil spring 47 rotate together in the direction Sea, Seb with respect to the ring member 43. In this case, the end 47b of the coil spring 47 that is not in contact with the groove side wall 45f is pulled by the frictional resistance between the winding portion 47a and the ring member 43, and comes into contact with the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44.

[0061] Next, the operation of the support member 6A using the brake 40 will be explained.

[0062] When opening the closed back door 3 (see Figure 1), the movable housing 20 is advanced relative to the fixed housing 10. At this time, as shown in Figures 2 and 9, the motor 30 rotates the slip rotor 44 counterclockwise in the direction Sca. As a result, the pressure exerted by the winding portion 47a on the ring member 43 by the protruding portion 44d on the end 47b of the coil spring 47 is reduced. The force obtained by adding the biasing force of the coil spring 28 to the driving force of the motor 30 is greater than the resistance force between the winding portion 47a of the coil spring 47 and the ring member 43, so the slip rotor 44, brake rotor 45, and coil spring 47 rotate together in the direction Sca. As a result, the spindle 25 rotates together in the direction Sca, causing the movable housing 20 to advance relative to the fixed housing 10.

[0063] When closing the open back door 3 (see Figure 1), the movable housing 20 is retracted relative to the fixed housing 10. At this time, as shown in Figures 2 and 10, the motor 30 rotates the slip rotor 44 clockwise in the direction SCB. As a result, the pressure on the end 47b of the coil spring 47 by the protruding portion 44d reduces the pressure force on the ring member 43 by the winding portion 47a. Subsequently, similar to when the movable housing 20 is advanced relative to the fixed housing 10, the slip rotor 44, brake rotor 45, and coil spring 47 rotate together in the direction SCB. As a result, the spindle 25 rotates together in the direction SCB, retracting the movable housing 20 relative to the fixed housing 10.

[0064] For example, if the motor 30 is opening the back door 3 (see Figure 1) in a closed state, and the user pushes the back door 3 (see Figure 1) in the opening direction, the rotation of the spindle 25 causes the brake rotor 45 to rotate counterclockwise in the direction of Sea, as shown in Figures 2 and 11. As a result, the pressure on the end 47b of the coil spring 47 by the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e increases the pressure force on the ring member 43 by the winding portion 47a. Consequently, the movable housing 20 advances relative to the fixed housing 10 while suppressing excessive rotation of the spindle 25 in the direction of Sea.

[0065] For example, if the motor 30 is closing the open back door 3 (see Figure 1), and the user pushes the back door 3 (see Figure 1) in the closing direction, the rotation of the spindle 25 causes the brake rotor 45 to rotate clockwise toward direction Seb, as shown in Figures 2 and 12. This increases the pressure on the end 47b of the coil spring 47 by the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e, thereby increasing the pressure force on the ring member 43 by the winding portion 47a. As a result, the movable housing 20 is retracted into the fixed housing 10 while suppressing excessive rotation of the spindle 25 toward direction Seb.

[0066] As described above, in the support member 6A using the brake 40 of this embodiment, when the movable housing 20 is moved forward and backward relative to the fixed housing 10 by the motor 30 alone, the rotational resistance to the spindle 25 by the brake 40 is reduced. On the other hand, when the user directly operates the back door 3, the brake 40 applies rotational resistance to the spindle 25. Furthermore, when the back door 3 is opened or closed manually while the motor 30 is stopped, and when the open back door 3 is pushed in the closing direction, the brake 40 can also apply rotational resistance to the spindle 25. Therefore, the back door 3 can be opened and closed without placing an excessive load on the motor 30.

[0067] The brake 40 of this embodiment has the following features.

[0068] A recess 46 is provided on the side 44e of the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44 to accommodate the end 47b of the coil spring 47. This prevents the end 47b from being pinched between the side 44e and the groove side wall 45f when the slip rotor 44 and brake rotor 45 rotate relative to each other around the axis L, thereby preventing load from being applied to the end 47b. As a result, the stability of the operation in which the brake rotor 45, slip rotor 44, and coil spring 47 rotate as a single unit can be improved. In addition, excessive load and deterioration over time of the end 47b of the coil spring 47 can be suppressed, thus preventing damage to the end 47b. Furthermore, damage to the side 44e of the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44 and the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e of the brake rotor 45 can be prevented by the end 47b of the coil spring 47.

[0069] The wound portion 47a of the coil spring 47 is housed within the ring member 43 of the brake case 41 in a radially compressed state. This suppresses the rotation of the wound portion 47a relative to the ring member 43 when the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44 or the groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e of the brake rotor 45 presses the end portion 47b of the coil spring 47 in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the end portion 47b can push and pull the wound portion 47a, allowing the force pressing against the ring member 43 of the brake case 41 to be increased or decreased.

[0070] The recess 46 is recessed in the circumferential direction to a depth greater than the wire diameter of the end portion 47b of the coil spring 47. This ensures that when the slip rotor 44 and the brake rotor 45 rotate relative to each other around the axis L, the end portion 47b is not caught between the side portion 44e and the groove side wall 45f, thereby reliably preventing a load from being applied to the end portion 47b.

[0071] The two recesses 46 formed in the protrusion 44d of the slip rotor 44 are positioned at different locations in the direction in which the axis L extends, corresponding to the two ends 47b of the coil spring 47. As a result, when the slip rotor 44 and the brake rotor 45 rotate relative to each other in both directions around the axis L, neither of the two ends 47b of the coil spring 47 is caught between the protrusion 44d and the regulating groove 45e. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the application of load to either of the two ends 47b.

[0072] The brake 40 applies rotational resistance to the spindle 25 when the brake rotor 45 rotates, while reducing or eliminating the rotational resistance of the spindle 25 when the slip rotor 44 rotates. In the support member 6A equipped with the brake 40, the brake rotor 45 is connected to the spindle 25 and the slip rotor 44 is connected to the motor 30. Therefore, when the spindle 25 is rotated by the motor 30, rotational resistance can be reduced or eliminated, and rotational resistance can be applied when the spindle 25 rotates in accordance with the opening and closing of the back door 3.

[0073] (Second Embodiment) The configuration of the passive support member 6B according to the second embodiment using the brake 40 will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 13. In Figure 13, elements that are the same as or similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. With respect to this embodiment, the configurations and operations that are not specifically mentioned in the following description are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0074] The support member 6B, like the support member 6A of the first embodiment, comprises a fixed housing 10 consisting of a housing portion 12, a cover portion 14, and a guide portion 15, and a movable housing 20 consisting of an outer cylinder 22 and a push rod 23. Inside the support member 6B are a spindle 25, a spindle nut 27, and a coil spring 28. In addition, a spacer 50 is housed in the housing portion 12 instead of a motor 30 and a gear mechanism 35.

[0075] The total length of the fixed housing 10, from the base end 12a of the housing portion 12 to the end 14b of the cover member 42, is the same as the total length of the fixed housing 10 in the first embodiment.

[0076] The axial length of the housing section 12 is shorter than the axial length of the housing section 12 in the first embodiment. The axial length of the cover section 14 is longer than the axial length of the cover section 14 in the first embodiment, because the length of the housing section 12 has been shortened. The guide section 15 is the same as (common to) the guide section 15 in the first embodiment.

[0077] The outer cylinder 22 is the same as (common to) the outer cylinder 22 of the first embodiment. The axial length of the push rod 23 is longer than that of the push rod 23 of the first embodiment because the length of the housing portion 12 has been shortened.

[0078] The axial length of the spindle 25 is longer than that of the spindle 25 in the first embodiment because the overall length of the housing 12 has been shortened. The configuration of the spindle nut 27 is the same as that of the spindle nut 27 in the first embodiment. The axial length of the coil spring 28 is longer than that of the coil spring 28 in the first embodiment because the overall length of the housing 12 has been shortened. This improves the degree of freedom in adjusting the biasing force supporting the back door 3 (see Figure 1).

[0079] The spacer 50 is configured to immobilely support the brake 40 between the partition plate portion 12c of the housing portion 42b and the connecting member 11. The spacer 50 is cylindrical and has a reinforcing partition wall 50a on its base end. When installed inside the housing portion 12, the base end of the spacer 50 abuts against the connecting member 11, and the end of the spacer 50 abuts (fits) against the cover member 42 of the brake 40.

[0080] The brake 40 has the same configuration as the brake 40 of the first embodiment. The only difference between the brake 40 of the second embodiment and the brake 40 of the first embodiment is that the connecting portion 44b of the slip rotor 44 penetrates into the spacer 50 and is not connected to any other member.

[0081] In the second embodiment, the support member 6B is passive, so the movable housing 20 moves forward and backward relative to the fixed housing 10 and the spindle 25 rotates in accordance with the opening and closing of the back door 3 (see Figure 1) by the active support member 6A or by manual operation. As a result, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the brake rotor 45 of the brake 40 rotates in the direction Sea, Seb in accordance with the rotation of the spindle 25, and the slip rotor 44 rotates only in accordance with the rotation of the brake rotor 45. As a result, the wound portion 47a of the coil spring 47 is pressed against the ring member 43, so rotational resistance can be applied to the spindle 25. Furthermore, the brake 40 used in the passive support member 6B neither reduces nor eliminates rotational resistance to the spindle 25.

[0082] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

[0083] For example, in the active support member 6A shown in the first embodiment, the slip rotor 44 may be connected to the spindle 25 and the brake rotor 45 may be connected to the gear mechanism 35. In this case, the winding direction of the winding portion 47a of the coil spring 47 is reversed from that shown in Figure 8, and the rotation of the slip rotor 44 increases the rotational resistance of the spindle 25, while the rotation of the brake rotor 45 reduces or eliminates the rotational resistance of the spindle 25.

[0084] In the passive support member 6B shown in the second embodiment, since there is no motor 30, a configuration without a slip rotor 44 is possible. However, using the slip rotor 44 is effective because it allows for the common use of the brake 40 with the active support member 6A shown in the first embodiment.

[0085] The end portion 47b of the coil spring 47 may be provided only at one end of the winding portion 47a. In this case, the recess 46 that accommodates the end portion 47b may be provided on the corresponding side portion 44e of the protruding portion 44d of the slip rotor 44, or on the corresponding groove side wall 45f of the regulating groove 45e of the brake rotor 45.

[0086] The coil spring 47 can be housed in the brake case 41 in a configuration where the wound portion 47a of the coil spring 47 is pressed against the ring member 43 by being pushed by the end portion 47b, and the pressure on the ring member 43 is released or the pressure is reduced by being pulled by the end portion 47b. More specifically, the wound portion 47a may be positioned at a distance from the ring member 43, or it may be pressed against the brake rotor 45 including the slip rotor 44.

[0087] The recess 46 may have a depth smaller than the wire diameter of the end 47b of the coil spring 47, provided that the configuration reduces the load on the end 47b of the coil spring 47.

[0088] The friction brake device 40 is not limited to the door support member 6, but can be applied as needed to any mechanism that includes a rotating member, such as the spindle 25, that requires switching between a state in which rotational resistance is applied and a state in which it is reduced or eliminated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 1 vehicle 2 car bodies 3. Back door (door) 5. Support device (Vehicle door support device) 6A, 6B Support members (Vehicle door support members) 10 Fixed Housing 11 Connecting member 12 Storage Unit 12a Base end (first end) 12b end 12c Partition plate section 12d Holding part 12e Mounting recess 13 Extension section 14. Cover section 14a proximal end 14b End (2nd end) 14c Support part 15 Guide section 15a proximal end 15b end 15c guide groove 15d Mounting part 20 Movable Housing 21 Connecting Member 22 Outer cylinder 22a proximal end 22b End (3rd end) 22c Support part 23 Pushrod 23a proximal end 23b end 23c Guide protrusion 25 spindles 25a Connecting shaft 26 bearings 27 Spindle nut 28 Coil Springs 30 motors 35 Gear mechanism 36 Planetary Gear Unit 36a Casing 36b Sun Gear 36c Planetary gear 36d Planetary Carrier 37 Planetary Gear Unit 37a Casing 37b Sun Gear 37c Planetary gear 37d Planetary Carrier 40. Brakes (friction brakes) 41 Brake case 41a End wall 42 Cover component 42a End wall 42b Storage area 43 Ring member 43a Sliding surface 44 Slip Rotor 44a base 44b Connection section 44c shaft hole 44d Protrusion 44e Side 45 Brake rotor 45a Rotor body 45b Connection hole 45c Storage area 45d shaft 45e Regulating groove 45f Ditch side wall 46 recess 47 Coil springs 47a Winding section 47b End 50 Spacers 50a Partition wall L axis

Claims

1. A slip rotor having a base that is rotatable about an axis and a projection that protrudes radially outward from the base about the axis, A brake rotor having a housing portion that rotatably accommodates the base portion, and a regulating groove that communicates with the housing portion and positions the protruding portion, wherein the regulating groove is open on the radially outer side and has a circumferential width around the axis that is wider than the width of the protruding portion, A coil spring having a winding portion surrounding the brake rotor including the slip rotor, and at least one end inserted between the side of the protruding portion in the circumferential direction and the groove side wall of the regulating groove, A case that houses the slip rotor, the brake rotor, and the coil spring so that they can rotate around the axis. Equipped with, When one of the slip rotor and the brake rotor rotates, the end is pressed against the case by the protrusion and the groove side wall of the regulating groove, while the wound portion pressed against the end is pressed against the case. When the other of the slip rotor and the brake rotor rotates, the pressure on the end of the winding portion, which is pulled at the end, by the other of the protrusion and the groove side wall of the regulating groove releases or reduces the pressure force on the case. A friction brake device wherein a recess for accommodating the end of the coil spring is provided in the side of the protruding portion or in the groove side wall of the regulating groove.

2. The friction brake device according to claim 1, wherein the wound portion of the coil spring is housed in the case in a radially compressed state, and the force pressing against the case increases when pushed by the end, and decreases when pulled by the end.

3. The friction brake device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the recess is recessed in the circumferential direction to a depth greater than the wire diameter of the end of the coil spring.

4. The ends of the coil spring are provided on both sides of the winding portion, and are positioned at intervals in the circumferential direction and in the direction in which the axis extends. The friction brake device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the recesses are provided on both sides of the protrusion in the circumferential direction or on both sides of the restricting groove, and are provided at different positions in the direction in which the axis extends, corresponding to the two ends, respectively.

5. As the brake rotor rotates, the groove sidewall of the regulating groove presses against the end of the coil spring, causing the winding portion to press against the case, The friction brake device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the rotation of the slip rotor causes the side portion of the protruding portion to press against the end of the coil spring, and the winding portion releases or reduces the pressure contact force with the case.

6. A cylindrical fixed housing having a first end connected to one of the vehicle body and the door, and a second end on the opposite side of the first end, A cylindrical movable housing having a third end connected to the other of the vehicle body and the door, the opposite end of which is housed in the fixed housing from the second end, and which is movable relative to the fixed housing in the axial direction, A spindle rotatably supported within the aforementioned fixed housing, A spindle nut is screwed onto the spindle and connected to the movable housing, A friction brake device housed within the aforementioned fixed housing and connected to the spindle, Equipped with, The friction brake device, A slip rotor having a base that is rotatable about an axis and a projection that protrudes radially outward from the base about the axis, A brake rotor having a housing portion that rotatably accommodates the base portion, and a regulating groove that communicates with the housing portion and positions the protruding portion, wherein the regulating groove is open on the radially outer side and has a circumferential width around the axis that is wider than the width of the protruding portion, A coil spring having a winding portion surrounding the brake rotor including the slip rotor, and at least one end inserted between the side of the protruding portion in the circumferential direction and the groove side wall of the regulating groove, A case that houses the slip rotor, the brake rotor, and the coil spring so that they can rotate around the axis. The slip rotor or brake rotor is connected to the spindle, When one of the slip rotor and the brake rotor rotates, the end is pressed against the case by either the protrusion or the groove side wall of the regulating groove, causing the winding portion pressed against the end to press against the case and impart rotational resistance to the spindle. When the other of the slip rotor and the brake rotor rotates, the pressure on the end of the winding portion pulled by the protrusion and the other of the groove side walls of the regulating groove releases or reduces the pressure force on the case, thereby reducing or eliminating the rotational resistance of the spindle. A vehicle door support member, wherein a recess for accommodating the end of the coil spring is provided on the side of the protruding portion or on the groove side wall of the regulating groove.

7. The slip rotor is connected to the motor, The brake rotor is connected to the spindle, As the brake rotor is rotated by the spindle, the groove side wall of the regulating groove presses against the end of the coil spring, and the winding portion presses against the case, The vehicle door support member according to claim 6, wherein the rotation of the slip rotor by the motor causes the side portion of the protruding portion to press against the end of the coil spring, and the winding portion releases or reduces the pressure on the case.

Images