Vehicle control input device

Abstract

To provide a vehicle operation input device that facilitates the simplification of the linear motion conversion mechanism structure. [Solution] The vehicle operation input device 100 includes an input member 1 to which a rotational operating force about a reference axis X is input, a reaction force generation mechanism 2 that generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force, and a linear motion conversion mechanism 3 that converts the rotation of the input member 1 into a driving force in the direction along the reference axis X and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism 2. The linear motion conversion mechanism 3 includes a transmission shaft member 4 to which the rotation of the input member 1 is transmitted, an intermediate member 5 having a first outer arrangement portion 51 arranged radially R outward from the transmission shaft member 4, a housing member 6 that covers the transmission shaft member 4 and the intermediate member 5 from radially R outward, a cam mechanism 7 that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member 4 into axial L motion of the intermediate member 5 and transmits it, and a guide mechanism 8 that restricts the circumferential C motion of the intermediate member 5 relative to the housing member 6 and allows the axial L motion of the intermediate member 5 relative to the housing member 6.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle operation input device including an input member to which a rotational operation force around a reference axis is input, a reaction force generation mechanism that generates a reaction force against the rotational operation force input to the input member, and a linear motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotation of the input member into a driving force in a direction along the reference axis and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism.

Background Art

[0002] An example of such a vehicle operation input device is disclosed in Patent Document 1 below. In the following description of the background art, the reference numerals in Patent Document 1 are cited in parentheses.

[0003] In the vehicle operation input device of Patent Document 1, the direction along the reference axis (12) is defined as the axial direction, the direction orthogonal to the reference axis (12) is defined as the radial direction, and the direction of orbiting around the reference axis (12) is defined as the circumferential direction.

[0004] The linear motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotation of the input member (14) into a driving force in the axial direction, which is the direction along the reference axis (12), and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism (68) includes a piston member (16) biased to one side in the axial direction by the reaction force generation mechanism (68), a cylindrical housing member (18) that slidably houses the piston member (16), a cam mechanism (70, 74, 78) that converts the rotational motion of the input member (14) into the axial motion of the piston member (16) and transmits it, and a guide mechanism (70, 72, 76) that restricts the circumferential motion of the piston member (16) with respect to the housing member (18) and allows the axial motion of the piston member (16) with respect to the housing member (18).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] In the linear motion conversion mechanism described above, the piston member (16) is positioned radially inward relative to the housing member (18), and the input member (14) is positioned radially outward relative to the housing member (18). Therefore, the piston member (16) and the housing member (18), which are connected to each other via the guide mechanisms (70, 72, 76), are positioned adjacent to each other, but the piston member (16) and the input member (14), which are connected to each other via the cam mechanisms (70, 74, 78), are positioned separated by the housing member (18). For this reason, the vehicle operation input device of Patent Document 1 is disadvantageous in that the structure of the linear motion conversion mechanism is complex.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a vehicle operation input device that can easily simplify the structure of the linear motion conversion mechanism. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In light of the above, the characteristic configuration of the vehicle operation input device is: An input member to which a rotational operating force around a reference axis is applied, A reaction force generating mechanism that generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member, The system includes a linear motion conversion mechanism positioned between the input member and the reaction force generation mechanism on the reference axis, which converts the rotation of the input member into a driving force in a direction along the reference axis and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism, The direction along the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the axial direction, the direction perpendicular to the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the radial direction, and the direction around the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the circumferential direction. The aforementioned linear motion conversion mechanism is A transmission shaft member on which the rotation of the input member is transmitted, An intermediate member having a first outer arrangement portion that is positioned radially outward from the transmission shaft member, A housing member that covers the transmission shaft member and the intermediate member from the radially outer side, A cam mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member into the axial motion of the intermediate member and transmits it, The feature is that it includes a guide mechanism that restricts the circumferential movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member and allows the axial movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member.

[0009] In this characteristic configuration, the housing member is formed to cover the transmission shaft member and the intermediate member from the radial outside. The intermediate member and the transmission shaft member are connected to each other via a cam mechanism. Furthermore, the intermediate member and the housing member are connected to each other via a guide mechanism. Therefore, the intermediate member can be positioned adjacent to both the transmission shaft member and the housing member. Consequently, the structure of the linear motion conversion mechanism can be easily simplified. Furthermore, the transmission shaft member and intermediate member can be positioned radially inward relative to the housing member. Therefore, the support structure for the transmission shaft member and intermediate member by the housing member can be easily simplified.

[0010] In light of the above, another characteristic configuration of a vehicle operation input device is: An input member to which a rotational operating force around a reference axis is applied, A reaction force generating mechanism that generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member, The system includes a linear motion conversion mechanism positioned between the input member and the reaction force generation mechanism on the reference axis, which converts the rotation of the input member into a driving force in a direction along the reference axis and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism, The direction along the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the axial direction, the direction perpendicular to the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the radial direction, and the direction around the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the circumferential direction. The aforementioned linear motion conversion mechanism is A transmission shaft member on which the rotation of the input member is transmitted, Intermediate member and A housing member that covers the transmission shaft member and the intermediate member from the radially outer side, A cam mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member into the axial motion of the intermediate member and transmits it, The system includes a guide mechanism that restricts the circumferential movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member and allows the axial movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member, The cam mechanism comprises a cam path extending along a direction inclined with respect to both the axial and circumferential directions, and a cam driven member that moves along the cam path. The intermediate member has a connecting portion connected to the cam mechanism, The transmission shaft member includes a second outer arrangement portion that is positioned radially outward from the connecting portion, The cam path is provided in the second outer arrangement portion, The cam-driven member is supported by the connecting portion.

[0011] In this characteristic configuration, the housing member is formed to cover the transmission shaft member and the intermediate member from the radial outside. The intermediate member, which has a connecting portion, and the transmission shaft member, which has a second outer arrangement portion positioned radially outside the connecting portion, are connected to each other via a cam mechanism. Furthermore, the intermediate member and the housing member are connected to each other via a guide mechanism. Therefore, the transmission shaft member can be positioned adjacent to both the intermediate member and the housing member. Consequently, the structure of the linear motion conversion mechanism can be easily simplified. Furthermore, the transmission shaft member and intermediate member can be positioned radially inward relative to the housing member. Therefore, the support structure for the transmission shaft member and intermediate member by the housing member can be easily simplified. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Side view of a vehicle operation input device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] A cross-sectional view along the axial direction of a vehicle operation input device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] A cross-sectional view along the radial direction of a vehicle operation input device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an intermediate member of a vehicle operation input device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Cross-sectional view along the axial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the second embodiment [Figure 6] Cross-sectional view along the radial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the second embodiment [Figure 7] Diagram showing the configuration of the cam mechanism and the guide mechanism of the vehicle operation input device according to the second embodiment [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view along the axial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the third embodiment [Figure 9] Cross-sectional view along the radial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the third embodiment [Figure 10] Diagram showing the configuration of the cam mechanism and the guide mechanism of the vehicle operation input device according to the third embodiment [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view along the axial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the fourth embodiment [Figure 12] Cross-sectional view along the axial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the fourth embodiment [Figure 13] Cross-sectional view along the radial direction of the vehicle operation input device according to the fourth embodiment [Figure 14] Diagram showing the configuration of the cam mechanism of the vehicle operation input device according to the fourth embodiment

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] 1. First Embodiment Hereinafter, the vehicle operation input device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the vehicle operation input device 100 is fixed to the vehicle body B of the vehicle.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 2, the vehicle operation input device 100 includes an input member 1, a reaction force generation mechanism 2, and a direct motion conversion mechanism 3.

[0015] The input member 1 is a member to which a rotational operating force around a reference axis X is input. The input member 1 is connected to an operating device (not shown) operated by the vehicle driver. In this embodiment, the input member 1 is an arm member that swings about the reference axis X. In this embodiment, the operating device connected to the input member 1 is either an accelerator pedal or a brake pedal.

[0016] In the following explanation, the direction along the reference axis X will be referred to as "axial direction L". One side of axial direction L will be referred to as "first axial direction L1", and the other side of axial direction L will be referred to as "second axial direction L2". Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the reference axis X will be referred to as "radial direction R", and the direction that circles around the reference axis X will be referred to as "circumferential direction C".

[0017] The reaction force generation mechanism 2 is configured to generate a reaction force in response to the rotational operating force input to the input member 1. The reaction force generated by the reaction force generation mechanism 2 provides a reaction force to the driver operating the control device, allowing them to perceive the amount of operation of the control device. In this embodiment, when the driver depresses the control device, which is the accelerator pedal or brake pedal, the reaction force generation mechanism 2 generates a reaction force that returns the control device to its initial position.

[0018] The linear motion conversion mechanism 3 is configured to convert the rotation of the input member 1 into a driving force in the axial direction L and transmit it to the reaction force generation mechanism 2. The linear motion conversion mechanism 3 is positioned between the input member 1 and the reaction force generation mechanism 2 on the reference axis X. In other words, the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 is positioned between the input member 1 and the reaction force generation mechanism 2 in the axial direction L.

[0019] The linear motion conversion mechanism 3 comprises a transmission shaft member 4, an intermediate member 5, a housing member 6, a cam mechanism 7, and a guide mechanism 8.

[0020] The transmission shaft member 4 is a shaft member to which the rotation of the input member 1 is transmitted. The transmission shaft member 4 is formed to extend along the axial direction L. The transmission shaft member 4 is positioned on the reference axis X. The transmission shaft member 4 is supported by the housing member 6 so as to be rotatable about the reference axis X. In this embodiment, the transmission shaft member 4 is connected to the input member 1 so as to rotate integrally with it.

[0021] The intermediate member 5 is supported so as to be movable in the axial direction L relative to the housing member 6. The intermediate member 5 is positioned on the reference axis X. In this embodiment, the intermediate member 5 includes a first outer positioning portion 51 that is positioned radially R outward relative to the transmission shaft member 4.

[0022] The housing member 6 is formed to cover the transmission shaft member 4 and the intermediate member 5 from the outside in the radial direction R. In this embodiment, the housing member 6 is formed to cover the entire reaction force generation mechanism 2, the entire transmission shaft member 4, and the entire reaction force generation mechanism 2 from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0023] In this embodiment, the housing member 6 comprises a peripheral wall portion 61, a bottom wall portion 62, and a cover portion 63.

[0024] The peripheral wall portion 61 opens on the first axial side L1 and the second axial side L2, and is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The peripheral wall portion 61 is arranged to cover the reaction force generation mechanism 2, the transmission shaft member 4, and the intermediate member 5 from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0025] Thus, in this embodiment, the first outer arrangement portion 51 of the transmission shaft member 4 and the intermediate member 5 is housed inward in the radial direction R relative to the housing member 6. The housing member 6, the first outer arrangement portion 51, and the transmission shaft member 4 are arranged to overlap in a radial view along the radial direction R. Here, regarding the arrangement of the two elements, "overlapping in a specific direction view" means that when a virtual line parallel to the line of sight is moved in each direction perpendicular to the virtual line, there exists at least a portion of the region where the virtual line intersects both elements.

[0026] The bottom wall portion 62 is positioned to close the opening L2 on the second axial side of the peripheral wall portion 61. In this embodiment, the bottom wall portion 62 is formed integrally with the peripheral wall portion 61.

[0027] The cover portion 63 is formed to cover a part of the transmission shaft member 4. In this embodiment, the cover portion 63 is formed to cover a part of the circumferential direction C of the input member 1 connected to the transmission shaft member 4 from the outside in the radial direction R. In addition, in this embodiment, the cover portion 63 is joined to the circumferential wall portion 61 from the axial first side L1.

[0028] The cam mechanism 7 is configured to convert the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member 4 into axial motion L of the intermediate member 5 and transmit it. Therefore, the transmission shaft member 4 and the intermediate member 5 are connected to each other via the cam mechanism 7.

[0029] The guide mechanism 8 is configured to restrict the circumferential movement C of the intermediate member 5 relative to the housing member 6, while allowing axial movement L of the intermediate member 5 relative to the housing member 6. Therefore, the intermediate member 5 and the housing member 6 are connected to each other via the guide mechanism 8.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, the transmission shaft member 4 includes a first connecting portion 41 connected to the input member 1, a second connecting portion 42 connected to the cam mechanism 7, and a third connecting portion 43 that connects the first connecting portion 41 and the second connecting portion 42 in the axial direction L.

[0031] In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 41 is connected to the input member 1 so as to rotate integrally with it. The second connecting portion 42 is positioned spaced apart from the first connecting portion 41 in the axial direction second L2. The third connecting portion 43 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X.

[0032] In this embodiment, the intermediate member 5 further comprises a sliding portion 52, a shaft portion 53, and a radially extending portion 54.

[0033] The sliding portion 52 is configured to slide axially along the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6. In this embodiment, the sliding portion 52 is formed in a disc shape centered on the reference axis X. A friction material 52a is provided between the outer circumferential surface of the sliding portion 52 and the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall portion 61. In this embodiment, the friction material 52a is a so-called semi-dry friction material impregnated with oil.

[0034] The shaft portion 53 is formed to extend from the sliding portion 52 toward the second axial side L2. The shaft portion 53 is positioned on the reference axis X.

[0035] The radially extending portion 54 is formed to extend outward from the shaft portion 53 in the radial direction R. In this embodiment, the radially extending portion 54 is joined to the sliding portion 52 from the axial second side L2. Furthermore, the radially extending portion 54 is formed integrally with the shaft portion 53 such that the shaft portion 53 protrudes from the radially extending portion 54 toward the axial second side L2.

[0036] In this embodiment, the reaction force generating mechanism 2 comprises a holding member 21, an inner spring 22, and an outer spring 23.

[0037] The retaining member 21 is a member for holding the inner spring 22 and the outer spring 23. In this embodiment, the retaining member 21 comprises a cylindrical portion 211, a bottom portion 212, and a flange portion 213.

[0038] The cylindrical portion 211 opens on the first axial side L1 and the second axial side L2, and is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The cylindrical portion 211 is positioned to cover the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5 from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0039] The bottom portion 212 is connected to the cylindrical portion 211 so as to close the opening L2 on the second axial side of the cylindrical portion 211.

[0040] The flange portion 213 is formed to protrude radially outward in the direction R from the end of the axial first side L1 of the cylindrical portion 211.

[0041] The inner spring 22 and the outer spring 23 bias the intermediate member 5 in the first axial direction L1 via the retaining member 21. In this embodiment, each of the inner spring 22 and the outer spring 23 is a compression coil spring. The inner spring 22 is positioned between the radially extending portion 54 of the intermediate member 5 and the bottom portion 212 of the retaining member 21, with the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5 inserted through it. The outer spring 23 is positioned between the flange portion 213 of the retaining member 21 and the bottom wall portion 62 of the housing member 6, with the cylindrical portion 211 of the retaining member 21 inserted through it.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, the vehicle operation input device 100 further comprises a first operation amount sensor 91 and a second operation amount sensor 92.

[0043] The first manipulated amount sensor 91 is an manipulated amount sensor for detecting the amount of manipulation of the input member 1. The first manipulated amount sensor 91 is configured to detect at least one of the amount of rotation and twist of the third connecting portion 43. The first manipulated amount sensor 91 is, for example, a rotation sensor for detecting the amount of rotation of the third connecting portion 43, or a torque sensor for detecting the twist of the third connecting portion 43. The first manipulated amount sensor 91 is housed inward in the radial direction R relative to the housing member 6. In this embodiment, the first manipulated amount sensor 91 is positioned inward in the radial direction R relative to the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6.

[0044] The second operating amount sensor 92 is provided to detect the amount of operation of the input member 1. In this embodiment, the second operating amount sensor 92 is positioned adjacent to the first axial side L1 of the first connecting portion 41 of the transmission shaft member 4. The second operating amount sensor 92 is a rotation sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the first connecting portion 41. In this embodiment, the second operating amount sensor 92 is fixed to the cover portion 63 of the housing member 6.

[0045] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in this embodiment, the cam mechanism 7 comprises a cam path 71 and a cam driven member 72.

[0046] The cam path 71 extends along a direction inclined with respect to both the axial direction L and the circumferential direction C. The cam driven member 72 is configured to move along the cam path 71. One of the cam path 71 and the cam driven member 72 is provided on the transmission shaft member 4. The other of the cam path 71 and the cam driven member 72 is provided on the first outer arrangement portion 51 of the intermediate member 5. In this embodiment, the cam path 71 is provided on the first outer arrangement portion 51, and the cam driven member 72 is provided on the transmission shaft member 4.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first outer arrangement portion 51 of the intermediate member 5 is formed to cover the transmission shaft member 4 from the outside in the radial direction R. In the illustrated example, the first outer arrangement portion 51 is formed to cover the second connecting portion 42 of the transmission shaft member 4 from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0048] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the first outer arrangement portion 51 includes a pair of first path forming portions 55. Note that, for convenience, the shaft portion 53 and radially extending portion 54 of the intermediate member 5 are omitted from the illustration in Figure 4.

[0049] The pair of first path-forming portions 55 are formed to protrude from the sliding portion 52 toward the first axial side L1. In this embodiment, the pair of first path-forming portions 55 are arranged to be point-symmetric with respect to the reference axis X in an axial view along the axial direction L. In the illustrated example, each of the pair of first path-forming portions 55 is formed in the shape of an arc with a central angle less than 45 degrees around the reference axis X in an axial view along the axial direction L.

[0050] In the following explanation, one side of the circumferential direction C will be referred to as "Circumferential direction first side C1," and the other side of the circumferential direction C will be referred to as "Circumferential direction second side C2."

[0051] In this embodiment, the cam path 71 is a first cam surface 73 formed on each of the pair of first path forming sections 55. In other words, in this embodiment, multiple (in this case, two) cam paths 71 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C. In the example shown in Figure 4, each of the pair of first cam surfaces 73 is formed in an arc shape centered on the reference axis X when viewed in the axial direction along the axial direction L. Furthermore, each of the pair of first cam surfaces 73 is inclined so that it gradually moves toward the first axial direction L1 as it moves toward the first circumferential side C1.

[0052] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in this embodiment, the cam driven member 72 is a first cam roller 74 that rolls on each of the pair of first cam surfaces 73. In other words, in this embodiment, one cam driven member 72 is provided for one cam path 71 such that a pair of first cam rollers 74 corresponds to a pair of first cam surfaces 73. Thus, in this embodiment, the cam mechanism 7 is provided with multiple (in this case, two) sets of cam paths 71 and cam driven members 72.

[0053] In this embodiment, a first connecting shaft 741, formed to extend along the radial direction R, is fixed to the second connecting portion 42 of the transmission shaft member 4, with the shaft passing through the second connecting portion 42 in the radial direction R. A first cam roller 74 is rotatably supported on each of the portions of the first connecting shaft 741 that protrude from the second connecting portion 42 on both sides in the radial direction R. Therefore, in this embodiment, each of the pair of first cam rollers 74 is configured to rotate (rotate) around the axis of the first connecting shaft 741 and to revolve (orbit) around the reference axis X in conjunction with the rotation of the first connecting shaft 741.

[0054] In this embodiment, each of the pair of first cam rollers 74 is positioned to contact the first cam surface 73 from the circumferential second side C2. Furthermore, each of the pair of first cam rollers 74 is positioned at the axial second side L2 on the first cam surface 73 when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each of the pair of first cam rollers 74 is a so-called spherical outer ring type cam follower, having an outer peripheral surface whose outer edge in an axial view along the axial direction L is formed in an arc shape (see Figure 3). With this configuration, when the first cam roller 74 rotates in the circumferential direction to the first side C1 about the reference axis X as the transmission shaft member 4 rotates, the first cam roller 74 can roll appropriately on the first cam surface 73.

[0056] In this embodiment, the guide mechanism 8 comprises a guide path 81 and a guide driven member 82.

[0057] The guide path 81 extends along the axial direction L. The guide driven member 82 is configured to move along the guide path 81. One of the guide path 81 and the guide driven member 82 is provided in the first outer arrangement portion 51 of the intermediate member 5. The other of the guide path 81 and the guide driven member 82 is provided in the housing member 6. In this embodiment, the guide path 81 is provided in the first outer arrangement portion 51, and the guide driven member 82 is provided in the housing member 6.

[0058] In this embodiment, the axial L arrangement regions of the cam path 71 and the guide path 81 overlap with each other. Furthermore, the axial L arrangement regions of the cam driven member 72 and the guide driven member 82 also overlap with each other.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the guide path 81 is a guide surface 83 formed on each of the pair of first path forming sections 55. In other words, in this embodiment, multiple (in this case, two) guide paths 81 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C. In the example shown in Figure 4, each of the pair of guide surfaces 83 is formed to face the first side C1 in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, each of the pair of guide surfaces 83 is formed in a straight line along the axial direction L when viewed radially along the radial direction R.

[0060] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in this embodiment, the guide-driven member 82 is a first guide roller 84 that rolls on each of the pair of guide surfaces 83. In other words, in this embodiment, one guide-driven member 82 is provided for one guide path 81 such that a pair of first guide rollers 84 correspond to a pair of guide surfaces 83. Thus, in this embodiment, the guide mechanism 8 is provided with multiple (in this case, two) sets of guide paths 81 and guide-driven members 82.

[0061] As shown in Figure 3, in this embodiment, each of the pair of first guide rollers 84 is positioned to contact the guide surface 83 from the first circumferential side C1. And, as shown in Figure 2, each of the pair of first guide rollers 84 is positioned at the second axial side L2 on the guide surface 83 when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1.

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, in this embodiment, each of the pair of first guide rollers 84 is rotatably supported on a first support shaft 841 that is formed to extend along the radial direction R. The pair of first support shafts 841 are arranged on both sides of the radial direction R with respect to the reference axis X. The pair of first support shafts 841 are fixed to the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6.

[0063] In this embodiment, when the transmission shaft member 4 rotates, a pair of first cam rollers 74 rotate (revolve) in the first circumferential direction C1 around the reference axis X via the first connecting shaft 741 connected to the second connecting portion 42 of the transmission shaft member 4. Accordingly, each of the pair of first cam rollers 74 rolls on the first cam surface 73 while in contact with the first cam surface 73 from the second circumferential direction C2. At this time, each of the pair of first guide rollers 84 rolls on the guide surface 83 while in contact with the guide surface 83 from the first circumferential direction C1. As a result, the rotation of the intermediate member 5 in the circumferential direction C relative to the housing member 6 is restricted, and the intermediate member 5 moves in the second axial direction L2 relative to the housing member 6.

[0064] 2. Second Embodiment The vehicle operation input device 100 according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 5 to 7. In this embodiment, the configuration of the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 differs from that of the first embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. Points that are not specifically described are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0065] As shown in Figure 5, in this embodiment, the housing member 6 further comprises a first side wall portion 64 and a second side wall portion 65.

[0066] The first side wall portion 64 and the second side wall portion 65 are each formed to extend along the radial direction R. The first side wall portion 64 is joined to the circumferential wall portion 61 from the axial first side L1 so as to close the opening on the axial first side L1 of the circumferential wall portion 61. The first side wall portion 64 is positioned on the axial second side L2 with respect to the input member 1. The second side wall portion 65 is positioned on the axial first side L1 with respect to the input member 1.

[0067] In this embodiment, the first connecting portion 41 of the transmission shaft member 4 is arranged to penetrate the first side wall portion 64 and the second side wall portion 65 in the axial direction L. A third connecting portion 43 is connected to the axial second side L2 end of the first connecting portion 41. In this embodiment, the third connecting portion 43 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X.

[0068] In this embodiment, the transmission shaft member 4 further comprises a fourth connecting portion 44. The fourth connecting portion 44 is connected to the axial first side L1 end of the first connecting portion 41 so as to rotate integrally with the first connecting portion 41. In this embodiment, the fourth connecting portion 44 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. In this embodiment, the second manipulated amount sensor 92 is positioned to cover the fourth connecting portion 44 from the outside in the radial direction R. The second manipulated amount sensor 92 is a rotation sensor that detects the amount of rotation of the fourth connecting portion 44.

[0069] In this embodiment, the cover portion 63 is formed to cover the fourth connecting portion 44 from the outside in the axial first side L1 and the radial R direction. The cover portion 63 is joined to the second side wall portion 65 from the axial first side L1.

[0070] In this embodiment, the sliding portion 52 of the intermediate member 5 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The sliding portion 52 is positioned at the outer end of the radially extending portion 54 in the radial direction R.

[0071] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, in this embodiment, the first outer arrangement portion 51 has one first path forming portion 55 instead of a pair of first path forming portions 55. In this embodiment, the first path forming portion 55 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The first path forming portion 55 is arranged to extend from the sliding portion 52 toward the first axial side L1.

[0072] In this embodiment, the cam path 71 is a first cam groove 75 formed so as to penetrate the first path forming portion 55 radially in the radial direction R at each of two locations in the first path forming portion 55 facing the radial direction R. The cam driven member 72 is a first pin 76 that rolls on the inner surfaces of each of the pair of first cam grooves 75.

[0073] In this embodiment, each of the pair of first pins 76 is inserted into the first cam groove 75 from the inside in the radial direction R. Each of the pair of first pins 76 is rotatably held by a first retaining portion 761 so as to rotate around the axis of the first pin 76, with the portion of the first pin 76 inside the first cam groove 75 in the radial direction R. The pair of first retaining portions 761 are fixed to the second connecting portion 42 of the transmission shaft member 4. In this way, each of the pair of first pins 76 is configured to roll on the inner surface of the first cam groove 75.

[0074] As shown in Figure 6, in this embodiment, the guide path 81 is a first guide groove 85 formed so as to penetrate the first path forming portion 55 radially in the radial direction R at each of two locations in the first path forming portion 55 facing the radial direction R. The guide driven member 82 is a second pin 86 that rolls on the inner surface of each of the pair of first guide grooves 85.

[0075] In this embodiment, each of the pair of second pins 86 is inserted into the first guide groove 85 from the inside in the radial direction R. Each of the pair of second pins 86 is rotatably held by a second retaining part 861 so as to rotate around its axis, with the portion of the second pin 86 inside the first guide groove 85 in the radial direction R being held by the second retaining part 861. The pair of second retaining parts 861 are fixed to the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6. In this way, each of the pair of second pins 86 is configured to roll on the inner surface of the first guide groove 85.

[0076] Figure 7 shows a diagram of the first path forming section 55, which has a pair of first cam grooves 75 and a pair of first guide grooves 85 formed thereon, unfolded on a plane along the circumferential direction C.

[0077] As shown in Figure 7, the pair of first cam grooves 75 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C. In this embodiment, each of the pair of first cam grooves 75 is inclined so that it gradually moves toward the first axial direction L1 as it moves toward the first circumferential side C1.

[0078] In this embodiment, when no rotational force is applied to the input member 1, each of the pair of first pins 76 is at the position C2 furthest circumferentially on the second side in the first cam groove 75 (hereinafter referred to as the "reference position"). When a rotational force is applied to the input member 1, each of the pair of first pins 76 is relatively movable up to the position L1 furthest axially on the first side in the first cam groove 75 (hereinafter referred to as the "limit position"). Therefore, in this embodiment, when a rotational force is applied to the input member 1 so that the pair of first pins 76 rotate towards the first side in the first circumferential direction C1, the intermediate member 5 moves towards the second side in the axial direction L2.

[0079] In this embodiment, each of the pair of first cam grooves 75 is formed such that the inclination angle with respect to the axial direction L gradually decreases as it moves from the reference position to the limit position. That is, the first angle θ1, which is the inclination angle of the first cam groove 75 with respect to the axial direction L at the reference position, is greater than the second angle θ2, which is the inclination angle of the first cam groove 75 with respect to the axial direction L at the limit position. Therefore, the ratio of the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L to the amount of movement of the first pin 76 in the circumferential direction C at the reference position is smaller than the ratio of the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L to the amount of movement of the first pin 76 in the circumferential direction C at the limit position.

[0080] Thus, in this embodiment, the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 is configured such that as the rotation angle of the input member 1 increases from the reference angle (the rotation angle when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1), the amount of axial movement L of the intermediate member 5 per unit rotation angle of the input member 1 gradually increases. This configuration makes it easier to provide a natural feel when operating the control device by the operator.

[0081] The pair of first guide grooves 85 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C. Each of the pair of first guide grooves 85 is formed to extend along the axial direction L.

[0082] In this embodiment, when no rotational force is applied to the input member 1, each of the pair of second pins 86 is at the position L2 on the second axial side in the first guide groove 85. When a rotational force is applied to the input member 1, each of the pair of second pins 86 is relatively movable to the position L1 on the first axial side in the first guide groove 85. At this time, since the outer diameter of each of the pair of second pins 86 is set to be approximately the same as the circumferential dimension C of the first guide groove 85, the relative movement of the pair of second pins 86 in the circumferential direction C is restricted. As a result, the rotation of the intermediate member 5 in the circumferential direction C relative to the housing member 6 is restricted.

[0083] 3. Third Embodiment In the following description, the vehicle operation input device 100 according to the third embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 8 to 10. In this embodiment, the configuration of the input member 1, the reaction force generation mechanism 2, and the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 differs from that of the first embodiment. In the following description, the differences from the first embodiment will be the main focus. Points that are not specifically explained will be the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0084] As shown in Figure 8, in this embodiment, the operating device connected to the input member 1 is a steering wheel W. The steering wheel W is connected to the input member 1 so as to rotate integrally with it around the reference axis X. In this embodiment, the input member 1 is formed to extend along the axial direction L.

[0085] In this embodiment, the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 further comprises a planetary gear mechanism 10 and an auxiliary mechanism 20.

[0086] The planetary gear mechanism 10 is located in the power transmission path between the input member 1 and the transmission shaft member 4. The planetary gear mechanism 10 comprises a sun gear SG, a carrier CR, and a ring gear RG.

[0087] The sun gear SG is connected to the input member 1 so as to rotate integrally with it.

[0088] The carrier CR rotatably supports the pinion gear PG. In this embodiment, the carrier CR is fixed to the housing member 6. Also in this embodiment, the pinion gear PG meshes with both the sun gear SG and the ring gear RG.

[0089] The ring gear RG is connected to the transmission shaft member 4 so as to rotate integrally with it. In this embodiment, the ring gear RG is connected to the first connecting portion 41 of the transmission shaft member 4.

[0090] The auxiliary mechanism 20 is configured to generate a driving force that assists the rotational operating force input to the input member 1. In this embodiment, the auxiliary mechanism 20 includes an electric motor M, a first gear G1, a second gear G2, and a third gear G3.

[0091] The electric motor M is configured to rotationally drive the first gear G1. In this embodiment, the electric motor M is fixed to the housing member 6.

[0092] The first gear G1 is located on a different axis from the reference axis X. The first gear G1 is driven and connected to the third gear G3 via the second gear G2. In other words, the first gear G1 and the third gear G3 mesh with the second gear G2 at different positions around the rotation axis of the second gear G2.

[0093] The second gear G2 is rotatably supported by the housing member 6. The third gear G3 is connected to the ring gear RG so as to rotate integrally with it. In this embodiment, the third gear G3 is positioned radially outward from the ring gear RG in the radial direction R, and overlaps with the ring gear RG in a radial view along the radial direction R.

[0094] In this embodiment, the reaction force generation mechanism 2 generates a reaction force that returns the steering wheel W to the neutral position when the driver operates the steering wheel W clockwise or counterclockwise from the neutral position.

[0095] In this embodiment, the reaction force generating mechanism 2 includes a first holding member 24, a second holding member 25, a first spring 26, and a second spring 27.

[0096] The first retaining member 24 is a member for holding the first spring 26. In this embodiment, the first retaining member 24 comprises a first cylindrical portion 241 and a first flange portion 242.

[0097] The first cylindrical portion 241 is formed in a cylindrical shape that covers the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5 from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0098] The first flange portion 242 is formed to protrude radially outward in the direction R from the end of the second axial side L2 of the first cylindrical portion 241. The first flange portion 242 is positioned to abut against the restricting portion 56 from the first axial side L1. The restricting portion 56 is formed to protrude radially outward in the direction R from the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5.

[0099] The first spring 26 is a compression coil spring. The first spring 26 is positioned between the first flange portion 242 and the axial direction L of the retaining wall portion 66 of the housing member 6. The retaining wall portion 66 is formed to protrude radially R inward from the circumferential wall portion 61.

[0100] The second retaining member 25 is a member for holding the second spring 27. In this embodiment, the second retaining member 25 comprises a second cylindrical portion 251 and a second flange portion 252.

[0101] The second cylindrical portion 251 is formed in a cylindrical shape that covers the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6 from the inside in the radial direction R.

[0102] The second flange portion 252 is formed to protrude radially inward from the end of the first axial side L1 of the second cylindrical portion 251. The second flange portion 252 is positioned to abut against the restricting portion 56 from the second axial side L2.

[0103] The second spring 27 is a compression coil spring. The second spring 27 is positioned between the second flange portion 252 and the axial length L of the bottom wall portion 62 of the housing member 6.

[0104] In this embodiment, when a rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1 so that the transmission shaft member 4 rotates in the circumferential first direction C1, the intermediate member 5 moves in the axial first direction L1. At this time, the first retaining member 24 is pressed toward the axial first direction L1 by the regulating portion 56 connected to the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5, so that the first spring 26 is compressed. As a result, the first spring 26 biases the intermediate member 5 toward the axial second direction L2 via the first retaining member 24 so that the intermediate member 5 returns to its initial position (the position when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1).

[0105] Furthermore, when a rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1 so that the transmission shaft member 4 rotates in the circumferential second direction C2, the intermediate member 5 moves in the axial second direction L2. At this time, the regulating part 56 connected to the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5 presses the second holding member 25 toward the axial second direction L2, compressing the second spring 27. As a result, the second spring 27 biases the intermediate member 5 toward the axial first direction L1 via the second holding member 25 so that the intermediate member 5 returns to its initial position (the position when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1).

[0106] In this embodiment, the shaft portion 53 of the intermediate member 5 is positioned to penetrate the bottom wall portion 62 in the axial direction L when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1. In other words, in this embodiment, the housing member 6 is formed to cover a part of the transmission shaft member 4 from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0107] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second manipulated amount sensor 92 is positioned to cover the portion of the shaft portion 53 that protrudes from the bottom wall portion 62 toward the second axial side L2 from the outside in the radial direction R. The second manipulated amount sensor 92 is a sensor that detects the amount of movement of the shaft portion 53 in the axial direction L.

[0108] In this embodiment, the sliding portion 52 of the intermediate member 5 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The sliding portion 52 is positioned at the outer end of the radially extending portion 54 in the radial direction R.

[0109] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in this embodiment, the first outer arrangement portion 51 has one first path forming portion 55 instead of a pair of first path forming portions 55. In this embodiment, the first path forming portion 55 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The first path forming portion 55 is arranged to extend from the sliding portion 52 toward the first axial side L1.

[0110] In this embodiment, the cam path 71 is a second cam groove 77 formed so as to penetrate the first path forming portion 55 radially in the radial direction R at each of two locations in the first path forming portion 55 facing the radial direction R. The cam driven member 72 is a second cam roller 78 that rolls on the inner surfaces of each of the pair of second cam grooves 77.

[0111] In this embodiment, a second connecting shaft 781, formed to extend along the radial direction R, is fixed to the second connecting portion 42 of the transmission shaft member 4, with the shaft passing through the second connecting portion 42 in the radial direction R. A second cam roller 78 is rotatably supported on each of the portions of the second connecting shaft 781 that protrude from the second connecting portion 42 in the radial direction R. Therefore, in this embodiment, each of the pair of second cam rollers 78 is configured to rotate (rotate) around the axis of the second connecting shaft 781 and to revolve (orbit) around the reference axis X in conjunction with the rotation of the second connecting shaft 781.

[0112] As shown in Figure 9, in this embodiment, the guide path 81 is a second guide groove 87 formed so as to penetrate the first path forming section 55 radially in the radial direction R at each of two locations in the first path forming section 55 facing the radial direction R. The guide driven member 82 is a second guide roller 88 that rolls on the inner surfaces of each of the pair of second guide grooves 87.

[0113] In this embodiment, each of the pair of second guide rollers 88 is rotatably supported on a second support shaft 881 formed to extend along the radial direction R. The pair of second support shafts 881 are positioned on both sides of the radial direction R with respect to the reference axis X. The pair of second support shafts 881 are fixed to the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6.

[0114] Figure 10 shows the first path forming section 55, which has a pair of second cam grooves 77 and a pair of second guide grooves 87 formed thereon, unfolded on a plane along the circumferential direction C.

[0115] As shown in Figure 10, the pair of second cam grooves 77 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C. In this embodiment, each of the pair of second cam grooves 77 is inclined such that it gradually moves toward the second axial direction L2 as it moves toward the first circumferential side C1 from the central position, and gradually moves toward the first axial direction L1 as it moves toward the second circumferential side C2 from the central position.

[0116] In this embodiment, each of the pair of second cam rollers 78 is at the center position of the second cam groove 77 when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1. Each of the pair of second cam rollers 78 is relatively movable up to the position L2 on the second axial side in the second cam groove 77 (hereinafter referred to as the "first limit position") when a rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1 so that the transmission shaft member 4 rotates in the first circumferential direction C1. Furthermore, each of the pair of second cam rollers 78 is relatively movable up to the position L1 on the first axial side in the second cam groove 77 (hereinafter referred to as the "second limit position") when a rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1 so that the transmission shaft member 4 rotates in the second circumferential direction C2.

[0117] Therefore, in this embodiment, when a rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1 so that the transmission shaft member 4 rotates in the first circumferential direction C1, the intermediate member 5 moves in the first axial direction L1 as the pair of second cam rollers 78 rotate in the first circumferential direction C1. Also, when a rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1 so that the transmission shaft member 4 rotates in the second circumferential direction C2, the intermediate member 5 moves in the second axial direction L2 as the pair of second cam rollers 78 rotate in the second circumferential direction C2.

[0118] In this embodiment, each of the pair of second cam grooves 77 is formed such that the inclination angle with respect to the axial direction L gradually decreases as it moves from the central position toward the first limit position. That is, the third angle θ3, which is the inclination angle of the second cam groove 77 with respect to the axial direction L at the central position, is greater than the fourth angle θ4, which is the inclination angle of the second cam groove 77 with respect to the axial direction L at the first limit position. Therefore, the ratio of the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L to the amount of movement of the second cam roller 78 in the circumferential direction C at the central position is smaller than the ratio of the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L to the amount of movement of the second cam roller 78 in the circumferential direction C at the first limit position.

[0119] Furthermore, each of the pair of second cam grooves 77 is formed such that the inclination angle with respect to the axial direction L gradually decreases as it moves from the central position toward the second limit position. In other words, the third angle θ3, which is the inclination angle of the second cam groove 77 with respect to the axial direction L at the central position, is greater than the fifth angle θ5, which is the inclination angle of the second cam groove 77 with respect to the axial direction L at the second limit position. Therefore, the ratio of the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L to the amount of movement of the second cam roller 78 in the circumferential direction C at the central position is smaller than the ratio of the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L to the amount of movement of the second cam roller 78 in the circumferential direction C at the second limit position.

[0120] Thus, in this embodiment, the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 is configured such that as the rotation angle of the input member 1 increases from the reference angle (the rotation angle when no rotational operating force is applied to the input member 1), the amount of axial movement L of the intermediate member 5 per unit rotation angle of the input member 1 gradually increases. This configuration makes it easier to provide a natural feel when operating the control device by the operator.

[0121] The pair of second guide grooves 87 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction C. Each of the pair of second guide grooves 87 is formed to extend along the axial direction L.

[0122] In this embodiment, each of the pair of second guide rollers 88 is at the center position in the axial direction L of the second guide groove 87 when no rotational force is applied to the input member 1. When a rotational force is applied to the input member 1 in the circumferential direction C1, each of the pair of second guide rollers 88 is relatively movable to the position furthest to the axial direction L2 in the second guide groove 87. Furthermore, when a rotational force is applied to the input member 1 in the circumferential direction C2, each of the pair of second guide rollers 88 is relatively movable to the position furthest to the axial direction L1 in the second guide groove 87. At this time, since the outer diameter of each of the pair of second guide rollers 88 is set to be approximately the same as the circumferential direction C dimension of the second guide groove 87, the relative movement of the pair of second guide rollers 88 in the circumferential direction C is restricted. As a result, the rotation of the intermediate member 5 in the circumferential direction C relative to the housing member 6 is restricted.

[0123] 4. Fourth Embodiment In the following description, the vehicle operation input device 100 according to the fourth embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 11 to 14. In this embodiment, the configuration of the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 differs from that of the first embodiment. In the following description, the differences from the first embodiment will be the main focus. Points that are not specifically explained will be the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0124] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, in this embodiment, the housing member 6 includes a first side wall portion 64 and a second side wall portion 65, similar to the second embodiment (see Figure 5).

[0125] In this embodiment, the intermediate member 5 does not have a first outer arrangement portion 51. In this embodiment, the intermediate member 5 has a connecting portion 57 connected to the cam mechanism 7.

[0126] In this embodiment, the sliding portion 52 of the intermediate member 5 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on the reference axis X. The radially extending portion 54 of the intermediate member 5 is connected to the end of the first axial side L1 of the sliding portion 52 so as to close the opening on the first axial side L1 of the sliding portion 52. The connecting portion 57 is formed to extend from the radially extending portion 54 toward the first axial side L1. In the illustrated example, the sliding portion 52, the radially extending portion 54, and the connecting portion 57 are integrally formed.

[0127] In this embodiment, the transmission shaft member 4 includes a second outer arrangement portion 45 positioned radially R outward from the connecting portion 57. The second outer arrangement portion 45 is formed to cover the connecting portion 57 from the radial R outward. In this embodiment, the transmission shaft member 4 does not include a second connecting portion 42 and a third connecting portion 43.

[0128] As shown in Figures 11 to 13, in this embodiment, the second outer arrangement portion 45 comprises a plate-shaped portion 451 and a pair of second path-forming portions 452.

[0129] The plate-like portion 451 is formed in a plate shape that extends along the radial direction R. The surface of the plate-like portion 451 facing the first axial direction L1 and the surface facing the second axial direction L2 are each formed as a plane perpendicular to the axial direction L. In this embodiment, the plate-like portion 451 is formed to extend outward in the radial direction R from the end of the second axial direction L2 of the first connecting portion 41.

[0130] The surface of the plate-shaped portion 451 facing the first axial direction L1 is supported by a thrust bearing 46. The thrust bearing 46 is a bearing that supports loads in the axial direction L. In this embodiment, the thrust bearing 46 is positioned between the plate-shaped portion 451 and the support wall portion 67 provided by the housing member 6 in the axial direction L. The support wall portion 67 is formed to protrude radially inward from the circumferential wall portion 61. The support wall portion 67 is supported by the circumferential wall portion 61 in such a way that its movement in the axial direction L relative to the circumferential wall portion 61 is restricted.

[0131] The pair of second path-forming portions 452 are formed to protrude from the plate-like portion 451 toward the second axial side L2. In this embodiment, the pair of second path-forming portions 452 are arranged to be point-symmetric with respect to the reference axis X when viewed in the axial direction along the axial direction L (see Figure 13).

[0132] As shown in Figure 13, in this embodiment, the cam path 71 is a second cam surface 711 formed on each of the pair of second path forming sections 452. In this embodiment, each of the pair of second cam surfaces 711 is formed in an arc shape centered on the reference axis X when viewed in the axial direction along the axial direction L. Thus, in this embodiment, the cam path 71 is provided in the second outer arrangement section 45.

[0133] Figure 14 shows the second path forming portion 452 and the plate-like portion 451, on which a pair of second cam surfaces 711 are formed, unfolded on a plane along the circumferential direction C.

[0134] As shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, each of the pair of second cam surfaces 711 is inclined so that it gradually moves toward the second axial side L2 as it moves toward the first circumferential side C1.

[0135] As shown in Figures 11 to 13, in this embodiment, the cam driven member 72 is a third cam roller 721 that rolls on each of the pair of second cam surfaces 711.

[0136] In this embodiment, the cam mechanism 7 further includes a cam support portion 79. The cam support portion 79 is connected to a connecting portion 57 of the intermediate member 5 so as to move integrally with the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L. In this embodiment, the cam support portion 79 is formed in a cylindrical shape that covers the connecting portion 57 from the outside in the radial direction R (see Figure 13).

[0137] As shown in Figure 13, the pair of third cam rollers 721 are rotatably supported on the pair of support shafts 722. The pair of support shafts 722 are connected to the cam support portion 79 so as to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the cam support portion 79. Thus, in this embodiment, the cam driven member 72 is supported by the connecting portion 57.

[0138] The pair of support shafts 722 are arranged so as to be point-symmetric with respect to the reference axis X in an axial view along the axial direction L. The pair of support shafts 722 are arranged so as to be eccentric in the circumferential direction C, with their axes (the rotational axes of the third cam roller 721) being parallel. Preferably, the pair of support shafts 722 are arranged such that the end faces of the first circumferential side C1 of the pair of third cam rollers 721 lie on a straight line passing through the reference axis X in an axial view along the axial direction L.

[0139] In this embodiment, the guide path 81 is a third guide groove 811 formed such that the inner surface of the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6 is recessed at two locations on the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6 that are opposite to the radial direction R. Thus, in this embodiment, the guide path 81 is provided in the housing member 6.

[0140] In this embodiment, the guide-driven member 82 is a pair of guided portions 821 that are respectively guided by a pair of third guide grooves 811.

[0141] In this embodiment, the guide mechanism 8 further includes a guide support portion 89. The guide support portion 89 is connected to a connecting portion 57 of the intermediate member 5 so as to move integrally with the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L. In this embodiment, the guide support portion 89 is integrally formed and shared with the cam support portion 79.

[0142] The pair of guided portions 821 are connected to the guide support portion 89 so as to protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the guide support portion 89. Thus, in this embodiment, the guide driven member 82 is connected to the connecting portion 57 so as to move integrally with the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L, and is formed to extend radially outward from the connecting portion 57.

[0143] In this embodiment, the pair of guided portions 821 are positioned at different locations in the circumferential direction C from the pair of support shafts 722. Furthermore, the pair of guided portions 821 are positioned so that their arrangement regions in the axial direction L overlap with those of the pair of support shafts 722. This makes it possible to keep the axial dimension L of the linear motion conversion mechanism 3 small.

[0144] As shown in Figure 12, in this embodiment, the vehicle operation input device 100 further includes a stroke sensor 93 for detecting the amount of movement of the intermediate member 5 in the axial direction L.

[0145] The stroke sensor 93 is configured to detect the position of the object to be detected 94. In this embodiment, the stroke sensor 93 is configured using a Hall IC. The object to be detected 94 is configured using a magnet.

[0146] In this embodiment, one of the pair of third guide grooves 811 is formed to penetrate the peripheral wall portion 61 of the housing member 6 in the radial direction R. The stroke sensor 93 is positioned to cover the third guide groove 811 that penetrates the peripheral wall portion 61 in the radial direction R from the outside in the radial direction R.

[0147] In this embodiment, the object to be detected 94 is attached to the guided portion 821, which is located in a third guide groove 811 that penetrates the peripheral wall portion 61 in the radial direction R, so as to move integrally with the guided portion 821 in the axial direction L. Thus, in this embodiment, the guide-driven member 82 is provided with the object to be detected 94, which is detected by the stroke sensor 93.

[0148] 5. Other Embodiments (1) In the above embodiment, the guide mechanism 8 was described as having a configuration comprising a pair of guide paths 81 and a pair of guide-driven members 82, that is, a configuration comprising two sets of guide paths 81 and guide-driven members 82. However, the configuration is not limited to such a configuration, and a configuration comprising three or more sets of guide paths 81 and guide-driven members 82 is also possible.

[0149] (2) The configurations disclosed in each of the embodiments described above can be applied in combination with configurations disclosed in other embodiments, as long as no inconsistencies arise. With regard to other configurations, the embodiments disclosed herein are merely illustrative in all respects. Therefore, various modifications can be made as appropriate without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0150] 6. Summary of this embodiment The following describes the vehicle operation input device (100) described above.

[0151] The vehicle operation input device (100) is An input member (1) to which a rotational operating force around the reference axis (X) is input, A reaction force generating mechanism (2) generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member (1), The system includes a linear motion conversion mechanism (3) positioned between the input member (1) and the reaction force generation mechanism (2) on the reference axis (X), which converts the rotation of the input member (1) into a driving force in the direction along the reference axis (X) and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism (2), The direction along the aforementioned reference axis (X) is defined as the axial direction (L), the direction perpendicular to the aforementioned reference axis (X) is defined as the radial direction (R), and the direction around the aforementioned reference axis (X) is defined as the circumferential direction (C). The aforementioned linear motion conversion mechanism (3) is The transmission shaft member (4) through which the rotation of the input member (1) is transmitted, An intermediate member (5) having a first outer arrangement portion (51) positioned radially (R) outward with respect to the transmission shaft member (4), A housing member (6) covers the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) from the outside in the radial direction (R), A cam mechanism (7) that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member (4) into the axial motion (L) of the intermediate member (5) and transmits it, The system includes a guide mechanism (8) that restricts the circumferential (C) movement of the intermediate member (5) relative to the housing member (6) and allows the axial (L) movement of the intermediate member (5) relative to the housing member (6).

[0152] In this configuration, the housing member (6) is formed to cover the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) from the radial (R) outside. The transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5), which has a first outer arrangement portion (51) positioned radially (R) outside the transmission shaft member (4), are connected to each other via a cam mechanism (7). The intermediate member (5) and the housing member (6) are also connected to each other via a guide mechanism (8). Therefore, the intermediate member (5) can be positioned adjacent to both the transmission shaft member (4) and the housing member (6). Consequently, the structure of the linear motion conversion mechanism (3) can be easily simplified. Furthermore, the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) can be positioned radially (R) inward relative to the housing member (6). Therefore, the support structure for the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) by the housing member (6) can be easily simplified.

[0153] Here, the first outer arrangement portion (51) of the intermediate member (5) is formed to cover the transmission shaft member (4) from the outside in the radial direction (R), The transmission shaft member (4) and the first outer arrangement portion (51) are housed inward in the radial direction (R) relative to the housing member (6), It is preferable that the housing member (6), the first outer arrangement portion (51), and the transmission shaft member (4) are arranged to overlap in a radial view along the radial direction (R).

[0154] In this configuration, the housing member (6), the first outer arrangement portion (51) of the intermediate member (5), and the transmission shaft member (4) are arranged to overlap in a radial view along the radial direction (R). This makes it easier to keep the axial (L) dimension of the linear motion conversion mechanism (3) small, and consequently, to miniaturize the vehicle operation input device (100) in the axial (L) direction.

[0155] Furthermore, the cam mechanism (7) includes a cam path (71) extending along a direction inclined with respect to both the axial direction (L) and the circumferential direction (C), and a cam driven member (72) that moves along the cam path (71). The guide mechanism (8) comprises a guide path (81) extending along the axial direction (L) and a guide driven member (82) that moves along the guide path (81), It is preferable that the cam path (71) and the guide path (81) are provided in the first outer arrangement portion (51).

[0156] In this configuration, both the cam path (71) and the guide path (81) are provided in the first outer arrangement portion (51) of the intermediate member (5). This makes it easier to keep the arrangement area of ​​the cam mechanism (7) and the guide mechanism (8) small, and consequently, to miniaturize the linear motion conversion mechanism (3). It also makes it easier to simplify the process of machining the cam path (71) and the guide path (81).

[0157] In the above configuration, the cam mechanism (7) comprises a plurality of sets of the cam path (71) and the cam driven member (72), The guide mechanism (8) comprises a plurality of sets of the guide path (81) and the guide driven member (82), Multiple cam paths (71) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction (C), It is preferable that the multiple guide paths (81) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction (C).

[0158] This configuration reduces the radial (R) load acting between the intermediate member (5) and the transmission shaft member (4), and between the intermediate member (5) and the housing member (6), and facilitates smoother relative motion between the intermediate member (5) and the transmission shaft member (4), and between the intermediate member (5) and the housing member (6).

[0159] Furthermore, the system is further equipped with an operating amount sensor (91) for detecting the amount of operation of the input member (1), The transmission shaft member (4) comprises a first connecting portion (41) connected to the input member (1), a second connecting portion (42) connected to the cam mechanism (7), and a third connecting portion (43) connecting the first connecting portion (41) and the second connecting portion (42) in the axial direction (L). The manipulated amount sensor (91) is configured to detect at least one of the amount of rotation and torsion of the third connecting portion (43), and is preferably housed inward in the radial direction (R) relative to the housing member (6).

[0160] With this configuration, the amount of operation of the input member (1) can be detected based on the detection result of the operation amount sensor (91). Furthermore, since the operation amount sensor (91) is housed in the housing member (6), it is easier to miniaturize the vehicle operation input device (100).

[0161] The vehicle operation input device (100) is An input member (1) to which a rotational operating force around the reference axis (X) is input, A reaction force generating mechanism (2) generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member (1), The system includes a linear motion conversion mechanism (3) positioned between the input member (1) and the reaction force generation mechanism (2) on the reference axis (X), which converts the rotation of the input member (1) into a driving force in the direction along the reference axis (X) and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism (2), The direction along the aforementioned reference axis (X) is defined as the axial direction (L), the direction perpendicular to the aforementioned reference axis (X) is defined as the radial direction (R), and the direction around the aforementioned reference axis (X) is defined as the circumferential direction (C). The aforementioned linear motion conversion mechanism (3) is The transmission shaft member (4) through which the rotation of the input member (1) is transmitted, Intermediate member (5) and A housing member (6) covers the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) from the outside in the radial direction (R), A cam mechanism (7) that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member (4) into the axial motion (L) of the intermediate member (5) and transmits it, The system includes a guide mechanism (8) that restricts the circumferential (C) movement of the intermediate member (5) relative to the housing member (6) and allows the axial (L) movement of the intermediate member (5) relative to the housing member (6), The cam mechanism (7) comprises a cam path (71) extending along a direction inclined with respect to both the axial direction (L) and the circumferential direction (C), and a cam driven member (72) that moves along the cam path (71). The intermediate member (5) is provided with a connecting portion (57) connected to the cam mechanism (7), The transmission shaft member (4) includes a second outer arrangement portion (45) which is positioned outside the radial direction (R) relative to the connecting portion (57), The cam path (71) is provided in the second outer arrangement portion (45), The cam-driven member (72) is supported by the connecting portion (57).

[0162] In this configuration, the housing member (6) is formed to cover the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) from the radial (R) outside. The intermediate member (5), which has a connecting portion (57), and the transmission shaft member (4), which has a second outer arrangement portion (45) positioned radially (R) outside the connecting portion (57), are connected to each other via a cam mechanism (7). Furthermore, the intermediate member (5) and the housing member (6) are connected to each other via a guide mechanism (8). Therefore, the transmission shaft member (4) can be positioned adjacent to both the intermediate member (5) and the housing member (6). Consequently, the structure of the linear motion conversion mechanism (3) can be easily simplified. Furthermore, the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) can be positioned radially (R) inward relative to the housing member (6). Therefore, the support structure for the transmission shaft member (4) and the intermediate member (5) by the housing member (6) can be easily simplified.

[0163] Furthermore, the guide mechanism (8) includes a guide path (81) extending along the axial direction (L) and a guide driven member (82) that moves along the guide path (81). The guide path (81) is provided on the housing member (6), Preferably, the guide-driven member (82) is connected to the connecting portion (57) so as to move integrally with the intermediate member (5) in the axial direction (L), and is formed to extend outward from the connecting portion (57) in the radial direction (R).

[0164] This configuration makes it easier to simplify the structure of the guide mechanism (8).

[0165] In the above configuration, the vehicle operation input device (100) further comprises a stroke sensor (93) for detecting the amount of movement of the intermediate member (5) in the axial direction (L), Preferably, the guide-driven member (82) is provided with a detected object (94) that is detected by the stroke sensor (93).

[0166] With this configuration, the object to be detected (94) provided on the guide-driven member (82) moves integrally with the intermediate member (5) in the axial direction (L), so that the amount of axial movement (L) of the intermediate member (5) can be detected based on the detection result of the stroke sensor (93). [Industrial applicability]

[0167] The technology described herein can be used in a vehicle operation input device comprising: an input member to which a rotational operating force about a reference axis is input; a reaction force generation mechanism that generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member; and a linear motion conversion mechanism that converts the rotation of the input member into a driving force in the direction along the reference axis and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0168] 100: Vehicle operation input device, 1: Input member, 2: Reaction force generation mechanism, 3: Linear motion conversion mechanism, 4: Transmission shaft member, 41: First connecting part, 42: Second connecting part, 43: Third connecting part, 45: Second outer arrangement part, 5: Intermediate member, 51: First outer arrangement part, 57: Connecting part, 6: Housing member, 7: Cam mechanism, 71: Cam path, 72: Cam driven member, 8: Guide mechanism, 81: Guide path, 82: Guide driven member, 91: First operating amount sensor (operating amount sensor), 93: Stroke sensor, 94: Detected object, X: Reference axis, L: Axial direction, R: Radial direction, C: Circumferential direction

Claims

1. An input member to which a rotational operating force around a reference axis is applied, A reaction force generating mechanism that generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member, The system includes a linear motion conversion mechanism positioned between the input member and the reaction force generation mechanism on the reference axis, which converts the rotation of the input member into a driving force in a direction along the reference axis and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism, The direction along the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the axial direction, the direction perpendicular to the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the radial direction, and the direction around the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the circumferential direction. The aforementioned linear motion conversion mechanism is A transmission shaft member on which the rotation of the input member is transmitted, An intermediate member having a first outer arrangement portion that is positioned radially outward from the transmission shaft member, A housing member that covers the transmission shaft member and the intermediate member from the radially outer side, A cam mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member into the axial motion of the intermediate member and transmits it, A vehicle operation input device comprising: a guide mechanism that restricts the circumferential movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member and allows the axial movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member.

2. The first outer arrangement portion of the intermediate member is formed to cover the transmission shaft member from the radially outer side, The transmission shaft member and the first outer arrangement portion are housed radially inward relative to the housing member. The vehicle operation input device according to claim 1, wherein the housing member, the first outer arrangement portion, and the transmission shaft member are arranged to overlap in a radial view along the radial direction.

3. The cam mechanism comprises a cam path extending along a direction inclined with respect to both the axial and circumferential directions, and a cam driven member that moves along the cam path. The guide mechanism comprises a guide path extending along the axial direction and a guide-driven member that moves along the guide path. The vehicle operation input device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cam path and the guide path are provided in the first outer arrangement portion.

4. The cam mechanism comprises a plurality of sets of the cam path and the cam driven member, The guide mechanism comprises a plurality of sets of the guide path and the guide-driven member, Multiple cam paths are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, The vehicle operation input device according to claim 3, wherein a plurality of the guide paths are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

5. The system further includes an operating amount sensor for detecting the amount of operation of the input member, The transmission shaft member comprises a first connecting portion connected to the input member, a second connecting portion connected to the cam mechanism, and a third connecting portion connecting the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion in the axial direction. The vehicle operation input device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the operation amount sensor is configured to detect at least one of the amount of rotation and torsion of the third connecting portion and is housed radially inward with respect to the housing member.

6. An input member to which a rotational operating force around a reference axis is applied, A reaction force generating mechanism that generates a reaction force to the rotational operating force input to the input member, The system includes a linear motion conversion mechanism positioned between the input member and the reaction force generation mechanism on the reference axis, which converts the rotation of the input member into a driving force in a direction along the reference axis and transmits it to the reaction force generation mechanism, The direction along the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the axial direction, the direction perpendicular to the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the radial direction, and the direction around the aforementioned reference axis is defined as the circumferential direction. The aforementioned linear motion conversion mechanism is A transmission shaft member on which the rotation of the input member is transmitted, Intermediate member and A housing member that covers the transmission shaft member and the intermediate member from the radially outer side, A cam mechanism that converts the rotational motion of the transmission shaft member into the axial motion of the intermediate member and transmits it, The system includes a guide mechanism that restricts the circumferential movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member and allows the axial movement of the intermediate member relative to the housing member, The cam mechanism comprises a cam path extending along a direction inclined with respect to both the axial and circumferential directions, and a cam driven member that moves along the cam path. The intermediate member has a connecting portion connected to the cam mechanism, The transmission shaft member includes a second outer arrangement portion that is positioned radially outward from the connecting portion, The cam path is provided in the second outer arrangement portion, The cam-driven member is supported by the connecting portion, and is a vehicle operation input device.

7. The guide mechanism comprises a guide path extending along the axial direction and a guide-driven member that moves along the guide path. The guide path is provided in the housing member, The vehicle operation input device according to claim 6, wherein the guide driven member is connected to the connecting portion so as to move integrally with the intermediate member in the axial direction, and is formed to extend radially outward from the connecting portion.

8. The system further includes a stroke sensor for detecting the amount of axial movement of the intermediate member, The vehicle operation input device according to claim 7, wherein the guide driven member is provided with a detected object that is detected by the stroke sensor.

Images