Handle structure

Abstract

The objective is to provide a back door handle structure that is easy to operate and that allows the license plate lamp to illuminate efficiently. [Solution] A handle structure 1 for a back door handle 2 that combines at least one switch unit 20 for unlocking or locking the back door 2 of a vehicle and a license lamp 3 for illuminating a license plate 52 provided on the back door 2, wherein at least a portion of the handle structure 1 has a cover member 30 that transmits the light of the license lamp 3, and the cover member 30 has an inclined portion 35 formed in the portion that transmits the light of the license lamp 3 that is inclined toward the switch unit 20. The inclined portion 35 is positioned at least in a location corresponding to the center of the switch unit 20 in the width direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a handle structure for a back door provided in various vehicles.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a switch for unlocking or locking a back door (hereinafter referred to as a locking / unlocking switch) is mounted on the handle of the back door of various automobiles and the like. Further, due to the demand for miniaturization, the license lamp and the locking / unlocking switch are integrated and incorporated into the handle of the back door (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in the prior art described in Patent Document above, a lens portion of a license lamp is provided between the outside of the handle of the back door and a switch for unlocking or locking (hereinafter referred to as a locking / unlocking switch). However, steps, depressions, etc. are formed in the lens portion, and when an operator who unlocks or locks the back door operates the locking / unlocking switch, the fingertips come into contact with the steps or depressions and get caught, and there is a problem that the locking / unlocking switch has to be searched blindly or cannot be operated at once. Further, the prior art described in Patent Document above has a configuration in which a transparent cover member (transparent portion) or an outer cover (elastic portion) is inserted from the tip side and covered on the housing. Therefore, there is a problem that the back door handle device (handle structure) becomes large-sized.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a back door handle structure that is easy to operate and that can efficiently illuminate the license plate lamp. Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide a back door handle structure that is compact and easy to mount on a back door. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) The handle structure of the present invention, provided to solve the above-mentioned problems, is a handle structure for a back door handle that combines at least one switch portion for unlocking or locking a back door of a vehicle and a license lamp for illuminating a license plate provided on the back door, wherein at least a part of the handle has a cover member that transmits light from the license lamp, and the cover member is characterized in that an inclined portion is formed in the portion that transmits light from the license lamp toward the switch portion.

[0007] The handle structure of the present invention described above has an inclined portion that slopes toward the switch portion, thus guiding the operator's movement toward the switch portion. In other words, the handle structure of the present invention allows the operator's fingertips, for example, to be smoothly guided toward the switch portion along the inclined portion, thereby improving the operability of the switch portion. Furthermore, since the inclined portion of the cover member of the handle structure of the present invention is formed of a transparent material, it allows light from the license plate lamp to pass through and illuminate the license plate lamp. Therefore, the handle structure of the present invention can combine the functions of illuminating the license plate lamp and guiding the operator's movement toward the switch portion. As a result, the handle structure of the present invention can be made compact, making it suitable for small vehicles such as kei cars and compact cars, and can be installed without impairing the design of the back door garnish, etc. Here, the inclined portion can be, for example, a lens or light guide member that concentrates or diffuses the light from the license plate lamp, or a transparent member (including a transparent member) that transmits light.

[0008] (2) The handle structure of the present invention described above is characterized in that the switch portion is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion, and the inclined portion is positioned at least at a location corresponding to the central portion in the width direction of the switch portion.

[0009] The handle structure of the present invention described above, when configured as in (2) above, allows the operator's fingertip to be guided to the central part of the switch portion, which can be reliably pressed down. Therefore, the handle structure of the present invention can improve the reliability of operation of the switch portion. Here, if the pressed portion of the switch portion is formed to be small, it is advisable to cover the switch portion with an appropriate switch knob (switch extension member) that expands the pressing distance of the switch portion. This is expected to widen the operating range of the switch portion and improve the click feel.

[0010] (3) The handle structure of the present invention described above is characterized in that the switch portion is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion, and the inclined portion is formed to extend along the width direction of the switch portion to a width greater than or equal to the width of the switch portion.

[0011] The handle structure of the present invention described above, when configured as in (3) above, ensures that the inclined portion reliably guides the operator's fingertips toward the switch portion. Furthermore, the handle structure of the present invention, when configured as in (3) above, maximizes the width of the switch portion, thereby improving the operator's operability.

[0012] (4) The handle structure of the present invention described above is characterized in that the switch portion is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion and is provided in multiples along the width direction, the inclined portion is divided and formed in the width direction for each of the multiple switch portions, and each of the divided inclined portions is arranged to be at different levels from one another.

[0013] As described above, the handle structure of the present invention, when configured as described in (4) above, allows the operator to recognize each switch section by the stepped section 38, even when multiple switch sections are provided in the width direction. Therefore, the operator can smoothly operate the multiple switch sections without making a mistake. As a result, the handle structure of the present invention can improve the operability of the switch sections. Here, the multiple switch sections may consist of, for example, an unlocking switch and a locking switch. Furthermore, the stepped section 38 can be configured in various ways, such as having a step in the vertical direction along the direction in which the switch section is pressed down, or having different heights for each inclined section of each switch section, as long as it is identifiable and does not hinder the operator's operability.

[0014] (5) The handle structure of the present invention described above is characterized in that the switch portion has a first switch portion and a second switch portion, wherein the length of the first switch portion in the width direction is longer than the length in the vertical direction, and the length of the second switch portion in the vertical direction is longer than the length of the first switch portion.

[0015] The handle structure of the present invention described above, when configured as in (5) above, can improve the operability of the narrow second switch section while maintaining the operability of the first switch section.

[0016] In this context, the handle structure described above is required to be further miniaturized in lightweight back doors of vehicles such as kei cars.

[0017] (6) To address the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a handle structure for a back door handle that includes at least one switch for unlocking or locking a back door of a vehicle and a license lamp for illuminating a license plate provided on the back door, comprising: a housing portion provided to protrude outward from the back door; a switch cover on which at least the switch portion is mounted; and a cover member on which the switch cover can be attached and which at least a part of which transmits light from the license lamp, wherein the switch cover and the cover member are assembled to the housing portion in the direction of pressing down the switch portion.

[0018] In the handle structure of the present invention described above, the switch cover and cover member are assembled to the housing portion in the direction of pressing down the switch portion, thus preventing the switch cover and cover member from becoming larger. In other words, the handle structure of the present invention described above allows for miniaturization of the switch cover and cover member, which improves the ease of installation on the back door of light vehicles and compact cars, and allows for installation on the back door without compromising aesthetics. Furthermore, the handle structure of the present invention combines the switch portion for unlocking or locking the back door (also simply referred to as the lock / unlock switch) and the license plate lamp, thus enabling miniaturization.

[0019] (7) In the handle structure of the present invention described above, the housing portion extends from the base end side to the tip end side of the protruding part and has a support surface on which the switch portion is arranged, and reinforcing ribs are erected on the back side of the support surface, and the reinforcing ribs are erected along the support surface so as to extend from the base end side to the tip end side of the housing portion.

[0020] The handle structure of the present invention described above, when configured as described in (7) above, can increase the strength of the housing portion (support surface) against the downward pressure of the switch portion. Therefore, the handle structure of the present invention can maintain its strength even when the housing portion is miniaturized (for example, by thinning the support surface).

[0021] (8) The handle structure of the present invention described above is characterized in that at least a part of the support surface is curved toward the direction of pressing down the switch portion from the protruding base end side toward the protruding tip side, and the reinforcing ribs are erected on the back side of the support surface along the curvature of the support surface.

[0022] The handle structure of the present invention described above, when configured as described in (8) above, allows the protruding tip side on the support surface to be lowered in the direction of pressing down the switch portion. Therefore, the handle structure of the present invention allows for miniaturization of the housing portion. Furthermore, by lowering the protruding tip side on the support surface in the direction of pressing down the switch portion, the handle structure of the present invention provides ample space for mounting the switch portion and inclined portion on the housing portion (support surface), thereby increasing the degree of freedom in the mounting position of the switch portion and the formation position of the inclined portion. In addition, the handle structure of the present invention allows for a larger area on the base end side of the reinforcing rib while reducing the area on the protruding tip side of the reinforcing rib. Therefore, the housing portion can be miniaturized while maintaining the rigidity of the support surface.

[0023] (9) In the handle structure of the present invention described above, the housing portion is characterized in that it has a flange portion that expands in a direction intersecting the protruding direction at the protruding base end and is supported by the back door, and the reinforcing rib is supported on the back side of the flange portion and the support surface.

[0024] The handle structure of the present invention described above can enhance the supporting effect by the reinforcing rib when configured as described in (9) above, so that the strength of the housing part (support surface) can be enhanced. As a result, the handle structure of the present invention can ensure the strength of the housing part when the cover member is assembled in the pressing direction of the switch part, and the cover member can be downsized.

[0025] (10) In the handle structure of the present invention described above, it is preferable that the housing part has a flange part that expands in a direction intersecting the protruding direction on the protruding proximal end side and can be supported by the back door, and a water stop part is provided on the flange surface on the protruding side of the housing part in the flange part so as to surround the protruding proximal end side of the housing part.

[0026] The handle structure of the present invention described above can reliably suppress the intrusion of water or the like into the back door by the water stop part when the housing part is attached to the back door via the flange part as described in (10) above. Therefore, the handle structure of the present invention can be downsized because there is no need to separately provide an outer cover or the like.

[0027] (11) In the handle structure of the present invention described above, the housing part is inserted from the inside to the outside with respect to the handle mounting opening opened in the back door, and the flange part is engaged with the inner outer peripheral surface of the handle mounting opening via the water stop part and supported by the inner outer peripheral surface of the handle mounting opening, which is preferable.

[0028] The handle structure of the present invention described above can be reliably supported in a sealed (sealed) state by the water stop part with respect to the handle mounting opening of the back door when configured as described in (11) above.

[0029] Incidentally, if the configuration described in (1) above is adopted and there is a change in the width of the inclined portion of the cover member, there is a possibility that the operator may mistakenly perceive the inclined portion as a switch. In view of this possibility, the handle structure of the present invention can adopt the following configuration.

[0030] (12) The handle structure of the present invention described above is preferably formed such that the length of the inclined portion in the depth direction intersecting the width direction of the switch portion is narrower than the length of the switch portion in the depth direction.

[0031] In the handle structure of the present invention, if the configuration is as described in (12) above, the length of the inclined portion in the depth direction is narrower than the length of the switch portion in the depth direction. Since the width of the inclined portion is narrower than the width of the switch portion, the operator can clearly distinguish between the inclined portion and the switch portion. When the operator's fingers touch the inclined portion, because the inclined portion is formed with a narrower width than the switch portion, the operator can recognize the inclined portion as a normal surface. Therefore, by configuring the handle structure of the present invention as described in (12) above, misrecognition of the inclined portion and the switch portion can be suppressed.

[0032] (13) The handle structure of the present invention described above is preferably such that a plurality of the switch parts are provided along the width direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined part, and the inclined part is formed such that the length in the depth direction is constant across the plurality of the switch parts.

[0033] In the handle structure of the present invention, when configured as described in (13) above, the inclined portion is formed so that its length in the depth direction is constant, spanning multiple switch sections. The inclined portion is formed uniformly without any change in width along the width direction. The operator's fingers are smoothly guided along the inclined portion toward the switch sections. Therefore, by configuring the handle structure of the present invention as described in (13) above, the operability of multiple switch sections can be improved.

[0034] (14) The handle structure of the present invention described above is preferably such that the cover member has a flat portion between the inclined portion and the switch portion that is substantially flush with the switch surface on which the switch portion is provided.

[0035] In the handle structure of the present invention, when configured as described in (14) above, the cover member has a flat portion between the inclined portion and the switch portion. The flat portion is substantially flush with the switch surface. The light from the license plate lamp passes through the flat portion and travels toward the license plate. The light maintains its straight-line direction as it passes through the flat portion. Therefore, by configuring the handle structure of the present invention as described in (14) above, the illumination performance toward the upper end of the license plate can be improved.

[0036] (15) The handle structure of the present invention described above is preferably such that the license lamp has a light source mounted on a substrate, and the light axis of the light source is positioned toward the planar portion of the cover member.

[0037] In the steering wheel structure of the present invention, with the configuration described in (15) above, the optical axis of the light source is positioned toward the flat surface. The light emitted from the light source is incident on the flat surface approximately perpendicularly. As the light passes through the flat surface, it maintains its straight-line propagation and travels toward the license plate. Therefore, by configuring the steering wheel structure of the present invention as described in (15) above, direct illumination of the license plate can be achieved, further improving illumination performance.

[0038] (16) In the handle structure of the present invention described above, it is preferable that the light source is positioned at a location corresponding to the approximate center of the license plate in the width direction.

[0039] With the steering wheel structure of the present invention configured as described in (16) above, the light source is positioned approximately in the center of the license plate in the width direction. The light emitted from the light source reaches both sides of the license plate equally. The left and right portions of the license plate are illuminated with approximately the same illuminance. Therefore, with the steering wheel structure of the present invention configured as described in (16) above, the entire license plate can be illuminated equally.

[0040] (17) The handle structure of the present invention described above further comprises an LED chip mounted on a substrate as a light source for the license lamp, and a housing portion provided to protrude outward from the back door, wherein a partition wall is provided inside the housing portion, and the partition wall divides the internal space of the housing portion into a first chamber where the LED chip is arranged and a second chamber on the opposite side from the side where the LED chip is arranged, the housing portion has a heat dissipation groove that communicates with the outside, the partition wall is positioned on the extension of the heat dissipation groove and has an end at a position spaced apart from the opening on the internal space side of the heat dissipation groove, the partition wall is provided with a recess that forms a gap between it and the substrate, and the first chamber and the second chamber communicate with each other through the recess.

[0041] The handle structure of the present invention, when configured as described in (17) above, can dissipate heat generated from the LED chip to the outside through multiple paths. The heat in the first chamber is dissipated to the outside through the heat dissipation groove by passing through the space between the end of the partition wall and the opening of the heat dissipation groove. A portion of the heat in the first chamber moves to the second chamber through a recess in the partition wall and is then dissipated to the outside through the heat dissipation groove. The second chamber functions as a heat dissipation buffer space. Therefore, the handle structure of the present invention, when configured as described in (17) above, can improve heat dissipation performance and extend the lifespan of the LED chip.

[0042] Furthermore, the configurations described in (1) through (17) above can be combined in any way that is not technically contradictory. [Effects of the Invention]

[0043] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a back door handle structure that is easy to operate and that can efficiently illuminate the license plate lamp. Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a back door handle structure that is compact and easy to mount on a back door. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a back door handle structure according to one embodiment of the present invention, viewed from below. [Figure 2] (a) is a front view of a back door handle structure according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (b) is a left side view of (a) with the back door omitted. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the handle structure in a disassembled state. [Figure 4] (a) is a cross-sectional view in the AA direction of Figure 2(a), and (b) is a cross-sectional view in the BB direction of Figure 2(a). [Figure 5] This is a partially cutaway side view of a back door handle structure according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the handle structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a plan view of the handle structure according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a plan view showing the handle structure according to the second embodiment with the cover member removed. [Figure 9] This is a plan view showing the handle structure according to the second embodiment with the cover member and substrate removed. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view showing the handle structure according to the second embodiment with the cover member and substrate removed. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view showing the handle structure according to the second embodiment attached to the back door. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] ≪First Embodiment≫ The handle structure 1 (hereinafter also simply referred to as handle structure 1) of the back door handle 5 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that each figure is a schematic representation for ease of understanding and may differ from the actual shape, size, and arrangement of components. Also, reference numerals for similar members may be omitted in each figure. Note that the back door 50 is partially or completely omitted in Figures 1 to 4. Also, note that Figures 1 and 3 are drawn upside down.

[0046] First, in order to explain the handle structure 1, the configuration of the back door 50 on which the back door handle 5 is mounted will be described below with reference to Figures 4(a) and 4(b).

[0047] Figure 4(a) is a cross-sectional view in the direction AA of Figure 2, and Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view in the direction BB of Figure 2. As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the back door 50 is a door provided on the rear of a vehicle such as an automobile, and is also called a rear hatch or tailgate. The back door 50 has an opening for a handle mounting hole 51 for attaching the housing portion 10 of the handle structure 1 (back door handle 5). A license plate 52 is also attached to the back door 50 below the handle mounting hole 51.

[0048] A back door garnish 53 is attached above license plate 52. The handle structure 1 of the present invention is positioned inside the back door garnish 53 (in the space between the back door 50 and the back door garnish 53).

[0049] The above describes the configuration of the back door 50, and next, the details of the handle structure 1 of the present invention will be explained. Please note that Figures 1 and 3 are views of the back door 50 from below. Also, please note that in the explanation of Figures 1 and 3, the illustrated upper side will be referred to as the upper side, and the illustrated lower side will be referred to as the lower side.

[0050] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the handle structure 1 includes a housing 10, a switch section 20 (first switch section 21 and second switch section 25), a license lamp 3, a cover member 30, a circuit board 2 (see Figure 3), a switch cover 40, and the like.

[0051] As shown in Figure 2(a), the housing portion 10 is provided to protrude outward from the back door 50. The housing portion 10 includes a support surface 11A (see Figure 3) as a support portion 11, a flange portion 13, reinforcing ribs 15, etc. The housing portion 10 is formed by integrally molding, for example, resin. The housing portion 10 may also be formed by combining multiple members.

[0052] As shown in Figure 3, the support portion 11 is a protruding part of the housing portion 10 and is formed in the shape of a rectangular box. The support portion 11 has a support surface 11A as its bottom. As shown in Figures 4(a) and 4(b), the support portion 11 (housing portion 10) is inserted from the inside out into the handle mounting opening 51 that is opened in the back door 50.

[0053] The support surface 11A is plate-shaped and is formed to extend from the base end of the protrusion to the tip end of the protrusion. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4(a), at least a portion of the support surface 11A is curved from the base end of the protrusion to the tip end of the protrusion, towards the upper side in the height direction H (the direction in which the switch portion 20 is pressed down). In addition, reinforcing ribs 15 are erected on the back side of the support surface 11A (the upper side in the height direction H).

[0054] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the flange portion 13 is formed to extend in a direction intersecting the protruding direction (in this embodiment, a perpendicular direction) at the base end side of the support portion 11 (the base end side in the longitudinal direction L). The flange portion 13 is designed to be supported by the back door 50 (see Figure 4). In addition, a license plate lamp 3 is attached to the back side of the flange portion 13 (opposite the protruding side of the support portion 11).

[0055] The license plate lamp 3 is mounted on the back side of the flange portion 13 such that its illumination surface faces the support portion 11. The license plate lamp 3 can illuminate the inside of the support portion 11 through a light guide hole (not shown) opened in the flange portion 13. The light emitted from the license plate lamp 3 is then directed towards the inclined portion 35 of the cover member 30, which will be described later, through appropriate light guides and lenses (neither shown).

[0056] Furthermore, a water-sealing portion 14 is provided on the flange surface 13A of the flange portion 13 on the protruding side of the housing portion 10, so as to surround the protruding base end side of the housing portion 10.

[0057] The water-sealing portion 14 is formed as a sealing member made of, for example, rubber, and has an opening 14A for inserting the housing portion 10. Therefore, by inserting the support portion 11 (housing portion 10) into the handle mounting opening 51 (see Figure 4) from the inside to the outside, the flange portion 13 engages with the inner outer circumferential surface of the handle mounting opening 51 via the water-sealing portion 14 and is supported by the inner outer circumferential surface of the handle mounting opening 51. Here, the flange portion 13 and the back door 50 are preferably connected via appropriate bolts or the like. The water-sealing portion 14 is not limited to the one shown and can be formed from various shapes and materials and placed in various positions.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4(a), the reinforcing rib 15 is erected along the support surface 11A (the back surface of the support surface 11A) so as to extend from the protruding base end side to the protruding tip side of the housing portion 10. That is, the reinforcing rib 15 is erected on the back side of the support surface 11A along the curvature of the support surface 11A. The reinforcing rib 15 is integrally molded with the support portion 11, for example, using resin as the material. The reinforcing rib 15 is also supported on the back side of the flange portion 13 and the support surface 11A. Specifically, the reinforcing rib 15 is connected to the flange surface 13A of the flange portion 13 on the support portion 11 side at the protruding base end side of the support portion 11. Furthermore, along the protruding direction of the support portion 11, the base end side of the reinforcing rib 15 in the height direction H is connected to the back side of the support surface 11A.

[0059] As shown in Figure 3, the substrate 2 is supported on the support surface 11A by appropriate screws or the like. The substrate 2 is formed in a flat plate shape using, for example, resin as the material, and has a circuit (not shown) formed on it. A first switch section 21 and a second switch section 25, which serve as a switch section 20, are mounted on the substrate 2.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first switch unit 21 constitutes the unlocking switch for the back door 50. The first switch unit 21 is arranged on the support surface 11A via a substrate 2. The first switch unit 21 is formed so that its length in the width direction W is longer than its length in the vertical direction (corresponding to the length direction L). Furthermore, the first switch unit 21 has a first switch knob 22 that extends in the width direction W bridging to its upper part. The first switch knob 22 expands the operating range of the first switch unit 21 in the width direction W.

[0061] In this embodiment, the second switch section 25 constitutes the locking switch for the back door 50. The second switch section 25 is arranged on the support surface 11A via a substrate 2. In this embodiment, the second switch section 25 is arranged at a predetermined interval in the width direction W of the first switch section 21. The length of the second switch section 25 in the vertical direction (length direction L) is longer than the length of the first switch section 21. Furthermore, a second switch knob 26 extending vertically (length direction L) is bridged over the upper part of the second switch section 25. The second switch knob 26 expands the operating range of the second switch section 25 in the length direction L.

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, a switch cover 40 is provided that integrally covers the first switch portion 21 and the second switch portion 25. The switch cover 40 is made of, for example, an elastic material (for example, rubber, etc.) and includes a first raised portion 41 that covers the first switch portion 21 and a second raised portion 42 that covers the second switch portion 25. The switch cover 40 can be attached to an opening (not shown) of a cover member 30, which will be described later.

[0063] The first raised portion 41 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape that extends in the width direction W in accordance with the first switch portion 21. The first raised portion 41 is elastically deformable and can push down the first switch portion 21 via the first switch knob 22. When the first raised portion 41 is pushed down, the first switch portion 21 is pushed down via the first switch knob 22. That is, the first raised portion 41 is pushed upward relative to the back door 50 (see Figure 4), and consequently the first switch portion 21 is pushed upward relative to the back door 50. When the first switch portion 21 is pushed down, the back door 50 is unlocked.

[0064] The second raised portion 42 is formed in a roughly rectangular shape that is slightly elongated vertically to match the second switch portion 25. The second raised portion 42 is elastically deformable and can push down the second switch portion 25 via the second switch knob 26. When the second raised portion 42 is pushed down, the second switch portion 25 is pushed down via the second switch knob 26. In other words, the second raised portion 42 is pushed upward relative to the back door 50 (see Figure 4), and consequently, the second switch portion 25 is pushed upward relative to the back door 50. When the second switch portion 25 is pushed down, the back door 50 is locked.

[0065] The cover member 30 is formed of a transparent material that allows light from the license lamp 3 to pass through, at least in part. In this embodiment, the entire cover member 30 is made of a transparent resin material. The cover member 30 has an opening 31 for attaching the switch cover 40.

[0066] The opening (not shown) of the cover member 30 is substantially the same shape as the switch cover 40, and is formed to be slightly smaller than the outer shape of the switch cover 40. The switch cover 40 is attached to the opening of the cover member 30 from the inside out, and the outer circumference of the switch cover 40 is held so as to engage with the cover member 30. The cover member 30 is assembled to the housing portion 10 (support portion 11) in the direction of pushing down the switch portion 20. That is, the cover member 30 and the switch cover 40 are assembled along the height direction H (up and down direction of the back door 50) in the housing portion 10. In this embodiment, the cover member 30 and the switch cover 40 are assembled to the housing portion 10 from the bottom to the top of the back door 50. To put it another way, the cover member 30 and the switch cover 40 are assembled toward the support surface 11A.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the cover member 30 has an inclined portion 35 that transmits light from the license lamp 3. The inclined portion 35 has a first inclined portion 36 that slopes toward the first switch portion 21 (first raised portion 41) and a second inclined portion 37 that slopes toward the second switch portion 25 (second raised portion 42).

[0068] The first inclined portion 36 is inclined toward the first switch portion 21 to guide operation toward the first switch portion 21. In other words, the first inclined portion 36 is inclined toward the first switch portion 21 to guide the operator's fingertips toward the first switch portion 21. Another way to put it is that the first switch portion 21 is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the first inclined portion 36. In this embodiment, the first inclined portion 36 is positioned at least in a location corresponding to the center of the first switch portion 21 in the width direction W. This ensures that the operator's fingers are reliably guided to the operating range of the first switch portion 21. Furthermore, the first inclined portion 36 is formed to extend along the width direction W of the first switch portion 21 to a width greater than or equal to the width of the first switch portion 21. This ensures that the operator's fingers are reliably and smoothly guided toward the first switch portion 21.

[0069] The second inclined portion 37 is inclined toward the second switch portion 25 to guide operation toward the second switch portion 25. In other words, the second inclined portion 37 is inclined toward the second switch portion 25 to guide the operator's fingertips toward the second switch portion 25. Another way to put it is that the second switch portion 25 is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the second inclined portion 37. In this embodiment, the second inclined portion 37 is positioned at least in a location corresponding to the center of the second switch portion 25 in the width direction W. This ensures that the operator's fingers are reliably guided to the operating range of the second switch portion 25. Furthermore, the second inclined portion 37 is formed to extend along the width direction W of the second switch portion 25 to a width greater than or equal to the width of the second switch portion 25. This ensures that the operator's fingers are reliably and smoothly guided toward the second switch portion 25.

[0070] Furthermore, the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37 are arranged at different levels from each other. In this embodiment, the first inclined portion 36 is positioned to protrude from the second inclined portion 37 towards the upper side shown in Figure 1 (the lower side towards the license plate 52 in the usage state shown in Figure 2). In other words, the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37 have a height difference in the height direction H. To put it another way, the inclined surfaces of the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37 are arranged with a height difference in the height direction H, thereby forming a stepped portion 38 between the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37. This allows the operator to recognize whether they are working on the first inclined portion 36 or the second inclined portion 37.

[0071] The above describes one embodiment of the handle structure 1 of the present invention. Next, the effects and advantages realized by the handle structure 1 of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0072] The handle structure 1 of the present invention described above has the following characteristic configurations (a) to (k). Therefore, the handle structure 1 of the present invention can achieve unique effects that cannot be achieved with the prior art, as described below.

[0073] (a) The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is a handle structure 1 for a back door 50 handle that combines at least one switch unit 20 for unlocking or locking the back door 50 of a vehicle and a license lamp 3 for illuminating a license plate 52 provided on the back door 50, wherein at least a part of it has a cover member 30 that transmits the light of the license lamp 3, and the cover member 30 is characterized in that an inclined portion 35 is formed in the portion that transmits the light of the license lamp 3, inclined toward the switch unit 20.

[0074] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above has an inclined portion 35 that is inclined toward the switch portion 20, so it can guide the operator's operation toward the switch portion 20. In other words, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can smoothly guide the operator's fingertips, for example, toward the switch portion 20 along the inclined portion 35, thereby improving the operability of the switch portion 20. Furthermore, since the inclined portion 35 of the cover member 30 of the handle structure 1 of this embodiment is formed of a transparent material, it can transmit light from the license plate lamp 3 and illuminate the license plate lamp 3. Therefore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can combine the functions of illuminating the license plate lamp 3 and guiding the operator's operation of the switch portion 20. As a result, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can be made compact, making it suitable for small vehicles such as kei cars and compact cars, and can be installed without impairing the design of the back door garnish, etc. Here, the inclined portion 35 can be, for example, a lens or light guide member that concentrates or diffuses the light of the license plate lamp 3, or a transparent material (including a transparent material) that transmits light.

[0075] (b) The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is characterized in that the switch portion 20 is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion 35, and the inclined portion 35 is positioned at least at a location corresponding to the central portion in the width direction W of the switch portion 20.

[0076] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described above, can be configured as shown in (b) above to guide the operator's fingertip to the central part of the switch section 20, which can be reliably pressed down. Therefore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can improve the reliability of operation of the switch section 20. If the pressed-down portion of the switch section 20 is formed to be small, it is advisable to place an appropriate switch knob (switch extension member) over the switch section 20 to expand the pressing range of the switch section 20. This is expected to broaden the operating range of the switch section 20 and improve the click feel.

[0077] (c) The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is characterized in that the switch portion 20 is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion 35, and the inclined portion 35 is formed to extend along the width direction W of the switch portion 20 to be greater than or equal to the width of the switch portion 20.

[0078] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described above, can be configured as shown in (c) above, so that the inclined portion 35 can reliably guide the operator's fingertips toward the switch portion 20. Furthermore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described in (c) above, can maximize the width of the switch portion 20, thereby improving the operator's operability.

[0079] (d) The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is characterized in that the switch section 20 is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined section 35, and a plurality of them are provided along the width direction W, the inclined section 35 is divided and formed in the width direction W for each of the plurality of switch sections 20, and each of the divided inclined sections 35 is arranged so as to be at different levels from each other.

[0080] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described above, can be configured as shown in (d) above, so that even when multiple switch sections 20 are provided in the width direction W, the operator can recognize each switch section 20 by the stepped section 38. Therefore, the operator can operate the multiple switch sections 20 smoothly without making a mistake. As a result, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can improve the operability of the switch sections 20. Here, the multiple switch sections 20 may be composed of, for example, an unlock switch and a lock switch. Furthermore, the stepped section 38 can be configured in various ways, such as having a step in the vertical direction along the direction in which the switch section 20 is pressed down, or having different heights for each inclined section 35 of each switch section 20, as long as it is identifiable and does not hinder the operator's operability.

[0081] (e) The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is characterized in that the switch section 20 has a first switch section 21 and a second switch section 25, the first switch section 21 is formed so that the length in the width direction W is longer than the length in the vertical direction, and the second switch section 25 is formed so that the length in the vertical direction is longer than the length of the first switch section 21.

[0082] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above, when configured as shown in (e) above, can improve the operability of the narrow second switch section 25 while maintaining the operability of the first switch section 21.

[0083] In this context, the handle structure 1 described above is required to be further miniaturized in lightweight back doors 50 such as those of kei cars (mini vehicles).

[0084] (f) Accordingly, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is a handle structure 1 for a back door handle 5 that combines at least one switch unit 20 for unlocking or locking the back door 50 of a vehicle and a license lamp 3 for illuminating a license plate 52 provided on the back door 50, and comprises a housing unit 10 provided to protrude outward toward the back door 50, a switch cover 40 on which at least the switch unit 20 is mounted, and a cover member 30 on which the switch cover 40 can be attached and which at least a part of transmits the light of the license lamp 3, and the switch cover 40 and the cover member 30 are assembled to the housing unit 10 in the direction of pushing down the switch unit 20.

[0085] In the handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above, the switch cover 40 and cover member 30 are assembled to the housing 10 in the direction of pressing down the switch part 20, thus preventing the switch cover 40 and cover member 30 from becoming larger. In other words, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above allows for miniaturization of the switch cover 40 and cover member 30, which improves the ease of installation on the back door 50 of light vehicles and compact cars, and allows for installation on the back door 50 without compromising aesthetics. Furthermore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment combines the switch part 20 (also simply called the lock / unlock switch) related to unlocking or locking the back door 50 and the license lamp 3, thus enabling miniaturization.

[0086] (g) In the handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above, the housing portion 10 extends from the protruding base end side to the protruding tip side and has a support surface 11A on which the switch portion 20 is arranged, and a reinforcing rib 15 is erected on the back side of the support surface 11A, and the reinforcing rib 15 is erected along the support surface 11A so as to extend from the protruding base end side to the protruding tip side of the housing portion 10.

[0087] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described above, can be configured as shown in (g) above to increase the strength of the housing portion 10 (support surface 11A) against the downward pressure of the switch portion 20. Therefore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can maintain its strength even when the housing portion 10 is miniaturized (for example, by thinning the support surface 11A).

[0088] (h) The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above is characterized in that at least a part of the support surface 11A is curved toward the direction of pressing down the switch portion 20, from the protruding base end side toward the protruding tip side, and reinforcing ribs 15 are erected on the back side of the support surface 11A along the curvature of the support surface 11A.

[0089] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described above, can be configured as (h) above, allowing the protruding tip side on the support surface 11A to be lowered in the direction of pressing down the switch part 20. Therefore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can be made smaller in size. Furthermore, by lowering the protruding tip side on the support surface 11A in the direction of pressing down the switch part 20, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can provide more space for mounting the switch part 20 and the inclined part 35 on the housing part 10 (support surface 11A), thus increasing the degree of freedom in the mounting position of the switch part 20 and the formation position of the inclined part 35. In addition, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can provide a larger area on the base end side of the reinforcing rib 15 while reducing the area on the protruding tip side of the reinforcing rib 15. Therefore, the housing part 10 can be made smaller while maintaining the rigidity of the support surface 11A.

[0090] (i) In the handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above, the housing portion 10 has a flange portion 13 that extends in a direction intersecting the protruding direction at the protruding base end and is supported by the back door 50, and the reinforcing rib 15 is supported on the back side of the flange portion 13 and the support surface 11A.

[0091] As described above, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment, when configured as described in (i) above, can enhance the support effect of the reinforcing rib 15, thereby increasing the strength of the housing portion 10 (support surface 11A). As a result, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment can ensure the strength of the housing portion 10 when assembling the cover member 30 in the downward direction of the switch portion 20, and the cover member 30 can be made smaller.

[0092] (j) In the handle structure 1 of the above embodiment, the housing portion 10 has a flange portion 13 that extends in a direction intersecting the protruding direction at the protruding base end side and is supported by the back door 50, and a water-sealing portion 14 is provided on the flange surface 13A on the protruding side of the housing portion 10 of the flange portion 13 so as to surround the protruding base end side of the housing portion 10.

[0093] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment, as described above, is configured as shown in (j) above, so that when the housing portion 10 is attached to the back door 50 via the flange portion 13, the water-sealing portion 14 can reliably prevent water from entering the back door 50. Therefore, the handle structure 1 of this embodiment does not require the provision of an outer cover or the like, and can be made smaller.

[0094] (k) In the handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above, the housing portion 10 is inserted from the inside out into the handle mounting opening 51 which is opened in the back door 50, and the flange portion 13 engages with the inner outer peripheral surface of the handle mounting opening 51 via the water-sealing portion 14 and is supported by the inner outer peripheral surface of the handle mounting opening 51.

[0095] The handle structure 1 of this embodiment described above, when configured as described in (k) above, can be reliably supported in a sealed state by the watertight portion 14 in relation to the handle mounting opening 51 of the back door 50.

[0096] The above describes the configuration and effects of the handle structure 1 of the back door 50 of the present invention. However, the handle structure 1 of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the handle structure 1 may be as described in (a) above, and can be formed in various shapes and sizes. Furthermore, the handle structure 1 of the present invention may, for example, not include some or all of the configurations described in (b) to (k) above, or may include some or all of the configurations described in (b) to (k) above, and other configurations.

[0097] In this embodiment, the handle structure 1 is exemplified as having a switch section 20 comprising a first switch section 21 for unlocking and a second switch section 25 for locking. However, the switch section 20 may be a single unit or three or more units. Furthermore, the functions assigned to the switch section 20 are not limited to unlocking and locking, but can be applied to switches with various functions. Also, the shape and size of the switch section 20 can be varied. In this embodiment, the entire cover member 30 is formed of a translucent (transparent) material, but the cover member 30 may be partially translucent as long as it can transmit light from the license plate lamp 3 in a predetermined direction. Furthermore, the back door 50 in the handle structure 1 is not limited to compact cars or kei cars, but can be applied to the back doors 50 of various vehicles. Also, the shape and size of the back door 50 can be varied. Furthermore, the shape, size, and arrangement of the license plate lamp 3 can be varied. Furthermore, various angles, shapes, and sizes of the inclined portion 35 can be used within the scope of the invention.

[0098] In this embodiment, the inclined portion 35 is positioned at least at a location corresponding to the center of the switch portion 20 in the width direction W, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the inclined portion 35 may be positioned at a location away from the center of the switch portion 20 in the width direction W. Also, in this embodiment, the inclined portion 35 is formed to extend along the width direction W of the switch portion 20 to a width greater than or equal to the width of the switch portion 20, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the inclined portion 35 may be formed to be the same width as the switch portion 20, or to be smaller than the width of the switch portion 20. Also, in this embodiment, the first switch portion 21 and the second switch portion 25 are operated via the first switch knob 22 and the second switch knob 26, respectively, but the switch knobs may be provided as needed, and the first switch portion 21 and the second switch portion 25 may be operated directly.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37 are arranged so as to be at different levels from each other, but the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37 may be arranged parallel to each other instead of at different levels. In other words, the stepped portion 38 does not need to be provided between the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37. In such a case, it is desirable to provide, for example, a marker that can be recognized by the operator, such as a projection or groove, between the first inclined portion 36 and the second inclined portion 37.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the width W of the first switch section 21 is formed to be longer than its length in the vertical direction, and the length in the vertical direction (length L) of the second switch section 25 is formed to be longer than the length in the vertical direction of the first switch section 21. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the aspect ratio of the first switch section 21 and the second switch section 25 can be formed in various combinations, such as the first switch section 21 and the second switch section 25 being formed to be the same shape, the first switch section 21 and the second switch section 25 being the same only in the width W direction, or the first switch section 21 and the second switch section 25 being the same only in the vertical direction.

[0101] In this embodiment, a configuration as described in (f) above has been disclosed, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the handle structure 1 of the present invention may not only have the switch cover 40 and cover member 30 formed separately, but may also have the switch cover 40 and cover member 30 formed integrally. Furthermore, the switch cover 40 and cover member 30 may not only be assembled to the housing portion 10 in the direction of pressing down the switch portion 20, but may also be assembled in a direction different from the direction of pressing down the switch portion 20.

[0102] Furthermore, the housing portion 10 is not limited to this embodiment and can be formed in various shapes and sizes. For example, the support surface 11A of the housing portion 10 may be straight or bent. Also, in this embodiment, reinforcing ribs 15 are erected on the back side of the support surface 11A, but the reinforcing ribs 15 may be provided only as needed, and a configuration without reinforcing ribs 15 is also possible. Furthermore, when reinforcing ribs 15 are provided, various shapes, sizes, arrangements, and quantities of reinforcing ribs 15 can be used. In addition, the part that supports the reinforcing ribs 15 is not limited to that of this embodiment and may be supported on a part different from the back side of the support surface 11A or on a part different from the flange portion 13.

[0103] Furthermore, the flange portion 13 of the housing portion 10 may be provided as needed, and a configuration without the flange portion 13 is also possible. When the flange portion 13 is provided, it can be formed in various shapes and sizes. Also, although the configuration is as described in (j) above, the water-sealing portion 14 may be provided as needed, and a configuration without the water-sealing portion 14 is also possible. When the water-sealing portion 14 is provided, it can be made of various materials, sizes, shapes, and arrangements.

[0104] Furthermore, although the present embodiment is configured as described in (k) above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the housing portion 10 can be supported by the back door 50 by various means, directions, and arrangements. For example, in the modified handle structure 1 shown in Figure 5, the housing portion 10 is inserted into the handle mounting opening 51, which is opened in the back door 50, from the outside inward. Note that the details of the housing portion 10 are omitted in Figure 5. The flange portion 13 engages with the outer peripheral surface of the handle mounting opening 51 via the water-sealing portion 14 and is supported by the outer peripheral surface of the handle mounting opening 51. That is, in the modified handle structure 1, the water-sealing portion 14 is provided on the back surface of the base end of the housing portion 10. To put it another way, in the modified handle structure 1, it is provided on the back surface of the flange portion 13.

[0105] In the first embodiment, the light from the license plate lamp 3 was described as being irradiated into the support portion 11 through a light guide hole opened in the flange portion 13, but the present invention is not limited to this. As the light source for the license plate lamp, an LED chip 4 mounted on a substrate 2 can also be used, as described in the second embodiment later. In this case, the optical axis of the LED chip 4 should be positioned toward a location suitable for guiding light toward the license plate 52, such as the inclined portion 35. Furthermore, in order to efficiently dissipate the heat generated from the LED chip 4, a heat dissipation structure, as described in the second embodiment later, can also be adopted. When this heat dissipation structure is adopted, as detailed in the second embodiment, it is possible to configure the system so that heat is discharged to the outside through a heat dissipation groove 17 provided inside the housing portion 10 and through a cylindrical portion indicated by reference numeral 3 in Figure 1, etc.

[0106] ≪Second Embodiment≫ The handle structure 1 according to the first embodiment described above is merely an example of the present invention, and appropriate modifications can be made, such as changing or adding to the configuration, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention can also be based on a second embodiment, such as the one illustrated in Figure 6 and subsequent figures, instead of the handle structure 1. Hereinafter, the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals will be used for components identical to those in the handle structure 1 according to the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0107] ≪1. Overview of the Second Embodiment≫ Next, a handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Compared to the first embodiment, the second embodiment is characterized by the configuration of the cover member 130, the arrangement of the light source of the license lamp, and the internal structure of the housing portion 10. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and descriptions of common components will be omitted as appropriate.

[0108] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cover member 130 according to the second embodiment has an inclined portion 135 that is not divided into a first inclined portion 36 and a second inclined portion 37, as is the case with the cover member 30 of the first embodiment, but is formed as a single continuous portion. The inclined portion 135 is formed so that its length in the depth direction (length direction L) is constant, spanning across a plurality of switch portions 20. The cover member 130 also has a flat portion 131 between the inclined portion 135 and the switch portions 20. The flat portion 131 is substantially flush with the switch surface on which the switch portions 20 are provided.

[0109] As shown in Figures 8 and 11, the license plate lamp according to the second embodiment has an LED chip 4 mounted on a substrate 2 as a light source. The LED chip 4 is positioned with its optical axis directed toward the planar portion 131 of the cover member 130. The LED chip 4 is positioned approximately in the center of the width direction of the license plate 52.

[0110] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the housing portion 10 according to the second embodiment has a partition wall 116 inside. The partition wall 116 divides the internal space of the housing portion 10 into a first chamber 116a where the LED chip 4 is arranged and a second chamber 116b on the opposite side from where the LED chip 4 is arranged. The housing portion 10 has a heat dissipation groove 17 that communicates with the outside. The partition wall 116 is provided with a recess 116c that forms a gap between it and the substrate 2, and the first chamber 116a and the second chamber 116b are in communication through the recess 116c.

[0111] ≪2. Composition of Cover Member 130≫ Next, the configuration of the cover member 130 provided in the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment will be described in detail. Note that, for the configuration of the cover member 130, the same reference numerals are used for parts identical to those of the cover member 30 in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0112] Referring to Figure 6, the configuration of the inclined portion 135 according to the second embodiment will be described. Unlike the inclined portion 35 of the first embodiment, the inclined portion 135 according to the second embodiment is not divided into a first inclined portion 36 and a second inclined portion 37, but is formed as a single continuous piece.

[0113] The inclined portion 135 is formed so that its length in the depth direction (a direction intersecting the width direction of the switch portion 20) is narrower than the length of the switch portion 20 in the depth direction. The length of the inclined portion 135 in the depth direction is narrower than the length of the first switch portion 21 in the depth direction, and also narrower than the length of the second switch portion 25 in the depth direction.

[0114] The inclined portion 135 is formed such that its length in the depth direction is constant across multiple switch sections 20. Specifically, the inclined portion 135 extends continuously along the width direction W, spanning both the first switch section 21 and the second switch section 25. The inclined portion 135 has a constant length in the depth direction along its entire length in the width direction W.

[0115] In the second embodiment, the cover member 130 does not have the stepped portion 38 that exists in the first embodiment. The inclined portion 135 maintains a constant height position without changing its position in the height direction H in the width direction W.

[0116] The configuration of the flat section 131 will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7, etc. The cover member 130 has a flat section 131 between the inclined section 135 and the switch section 20. The flat section 131 is substantially flush with the switch surface on which the switch section 20 is provided.

[0117] The flat portion 131 is formed in a position corresponding to the portion that was formed as an inclined surface in the first embodiment. The flat portion 131 is formed of a transparent resin material as part of the cover member 130 and can transmit light from the license plate lamp.

[0118] The flat portion 131 extends from the lower end of the inclined portion 135 to the position where the switch portion 20 is located. The flat portion 131 is formed along the width direction W over a range corresponding to both the first switch portion 21 and the second switch portion 25.

[0119] ≪3. Arrangement and configuration of LED chip 4≫ Next, the arrangement and configuration of the LED chips 4 in the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0120] The configuration of the LED chip 4 will be described with reference to Figures 8, 11, etc. The license lamp according to the second embodiment has an LED chip 4 mounted on a substrate 2 as a light source. The LED chip 4 is mounted on the upper surface of the substrate 2. The substrate 2 is arranged on ribs consisting of partition walls 116, etc., provided inside the housing portion 10. Circuits for driving the LED chip 4 are formed on the substrate 2.

[0121] The LED chip 4 is positioned to correspond approximately to the center of the license plate 52 in the width direction. The LED chip 4 is positioned to illuminate both sides of the license plate 52 evenly. The position of the LED chip 4 does not necessarily coincide with the center of the back door handle 5 in the width direction. The LED chip 4 is positioned optimally to illuminate the license plate 52.

[0122] Referring to Figure 8, the direction of the optical axis of the LED chip 4 will be explained. As shown in Figure 11, the LED chip 4 is positioned with its optical axis facing the flat portion 131 of the cover member 130. The light-emitting surface of the LED chip 4 faces the flat portion 131. The light emitted from the LED chip 4 travels toward the flat portion 131. The light is incident approximately perpendicular to the flat portion 131. The LED chip 4 is installed so that its optical axis is aimed at the flat portion of the cover member 130.

[0123] The LED chip 4 is positioned so as not to straddle the inclined portion 135. The LED chip 4 is positioned opposite the flat portion 131, rather than at the boundary between the flat portion 131 and the inclined portion 135, or opposite the inclined portion 135.

[0124] ≪4. Heat Dissipation Structure≫ Next, in the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, the heat dissipation structure for discharging heat emitted from the LED chip 4, etc., will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0125] The internal structure of the housing section 10 will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10, etc. The housing section 10 according to the second embodiment has a partition wall 116 inside. The partition wall 116 divides the internal space of the housing section 10. The partition wall 116 extends along the depth direction (length direction L) inside the housing section 10.

[0126] The partition wall 116 divides the internal space of the housing 10 into a first room 116a and a second room 116b. The first room 116a is the space on the side where the LED chips 4 are arranged. The second room 116b is the space on the opposite side from where the LED chips 4 are arranged.

[0127] As shown in Figure 9, the housing portion 10 has a heat dissipation groove 17 that communicates with the outside. The heat dissipation groove 17 constitutes a path for discharging heat from the internal space of the housing portion 10 to the outside. The heat dissipation groove 17 communicates with a cylindrical discharge portion 103, and the heat is discharged to the outside via the discharge portion 103. The partition wall 116 is positioned on the extension of the heat dissipation groove 17. The partition wall 116 is positioned along the depth direction (length direction L) with respect to the heat dissipation groove 17.

[0128] The partition wall 116 has an end positioned at a distance from the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17 on the internal space side. The end of the partition wall 116 is positioned so as not to block the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17. A space is formed between the end of the partition wall 116 and the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17.

[0129] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the partition wall 116 is provided with a recess 116c. The recess 116c forms a gap between it and the substrate 2. The recess 116c is formed at the vertical end of the partition wall 116 (the side that contacts the substrate 2). The recess 116c is configured such that when the substrate 2 is placed on the partition wall 116, a groove-like space is formed between the lower surface of the substrate 2 and the recess 116c.

[0130] The first chamber 116a and the second chamber 116b are in communication via the recess 116c. The groove-shaped space formed between the recess 116c and the substrate 2 constitutes a passage from the first chamber 116a to the second chamber 116b.

[0131] ≪5. Operation Description≫ Next, the illumination operation and heat dissipation operation of the license plate lamp when the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment is adopted will be described.

[0132] ≪5.1 License Plate Lamp Illumination Operation≫ Referring to Figure 10, the illumination operation of the license plate lamp will be explained. The light emitted from the LED chip 4 passes through the flat portion 131 of the cover member 130. After passing through the flat portion 131, the light travels towards the license plate 52.

[0133] Since the optical axis of the LED chip 4 is positioned toward the planar section 131, the light is incident on the planar section 131 approximately perpendicularly. As the light passes through the planar section 131, it travels toward the license plate 52 while maintaining its straight-line directionality.

[0134] Light transmitted through the flat portion 131 illuminates both the upper and lower ends of the license plate 52. In the first embodiment, the light tended to be refracted downwards by the inclined surface, but in the second embodiment, the light travels straight to the license plate 52 via the flat portion 131. As a result, the license plate 52 is illuminated from the upper end.

[0135] ≪5.2 Heat Dissipation Operation≫ Next, the heat dissipation operation will be explained with reference to Figure 9. As indicated by the arrows in Figure 9, the heat generated from the LED chip 4 is released into the first chamber 116a. The heat in the first chamber 116a is then discharged to the outside through multiple paths.

[0136] As a first heat dissipation path, the heat in the first chamber 116a passes through the space between the end of the partition wall 116 and the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17. After passing through this space, the heat is discharged to the outside via the heat dissipation groove 17 and the discharge section 103.

[0137] As a second heat dissipation path, some of the heat in the first chamber 116a moves to the second chamber 116b through a groove-shaped space formed between the recess 116c of the partition wall 116 and the substrate 2. The heat that has moved to the second chamber 116b passes through the space between the end of the partition wall 116 and the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17, similar to the first heat dissipation path, and is discharged to the outside through the heat dissipation groove 17 and the discharge section 103.

[0138] The second chamber 116b also functions as a heat dissipation buffer space. If there is heat that cannot be discharged all at once through the first heat dissipation path, that heat is temporarily stored in the second chamber 116b. The heat stored in the second chamber 116b is discharged to the outside over time through the heat dissipation groove 17.

[0139] 6. Modified Examples of the Second Embodiment The second embodiment described above is merely one example of the present invention, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the present invention. The main modifications are described below.

[0140] In the second embodiment, the inclined portion 135 is formed to span multiple switch portions 20 and have a constant length in the depth direction, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The inclined portion 135 may be formed with a portion corresponding to the first switch portion 21 and a portion corresponding to the second switch portion 25 separated along the width direction W. In this case as well, each inclined portion 135 is preferably formed to be narrower than the length in the depth direction of the corresponding switch portion 20.

[0141] In the second embodiment, two switch sections 20 are provided, a first switch section 21 and a second switch section 25, but the number of switch sections 20 is not limited to two. There may be only one switch section 20, or there may be three or more. If there is only one switch section 20, the inclined section 135 may be formed to extend along the width direction W of the switch section 20.

[0142] In the second embodiment, the LED chip 4 is positioned approximately in the center of the license plate 52 in the width direction. However, if the mounting position of the license plate 52 is off-center from the center of the vehicle, the position of the LED chip 4 should be adjusted accordingly. It is desirable that the LED chip 4 be positioned so as to illuminate the license plate 52 evenly.

[0143] In the second embodiment, one LED chip 4 is provided, but multiple LED chips 4 may be provided. The multiple LED chips 4 are preferably arranged along the width direction W. In this case, each LED chip 4 is preferably positioned with its optical axis facing the planar portion 131.

[0144] In the second embodiment, one recess 116c is provided in the partition wall 116, but the number of recesses 116c is not limited to one. Multiple recesses 116c may be provided in the partition wall 116. The multiple recesses 116c may be arranged along the length direction L or the width direction W. The number and arrangement of the recesses 116c may be appropriately determined considering the heat dissipation performance.

[0145] In the second embodiment, the recess 116c of the partition wall 116 forms a gap between it and the substrate 2, but the shape of the recess 116c is not limited to the embodiment. The recess 116c may be a notch shape, a groove shape, or a through hole shape. The recess 116c should be shaped in a way that allows the first chamber 116a and the second chamber 116b to communicate with each other.

[0146] The configuration of the second embodiment can be appropriately combined with various modifications described in the first embodiment. For example, the mounting direction of the housing portion 10 to the back door 50, the shape of the flange portion 13, and the arrangement of the water-sealing portion 14 can be modified in the same way as the modifications of the first embodiment.

[0147] 6. Effects and Benefits Next, the effects and advantages realized by the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment will be described. The handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment described above has the following characteristic configurations (l) to (q). Therefore, in addition to the effects and advantages of the first embodiment, the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment can provide the following unique effects.

[0148] (l) In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, the inclined portion 135 is formed such that its vertical width is narrower than the vertical width of the switch portion 20.

[0149] In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, by having the configuration described in (l) above, the vertical width of the inclined portion 135 is narrower than the vertical width of the switch portion 20. Because the width of the inclined portion 135 is narrower than the width of the switch portion 20, the operator can clearly distinguish between the inclined portion 135 and the switch portion 20. When the operator's fingers touch the inclined portion 135, because the inclined portion 135 is formed with a narrower width than the switch portion 20, the operator can recognize the inclined portion 135 as a normal surface. Therefore, by having the configuration described in (l) above, the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment can suppress misrecognition between the inclined portion 135 and the switch portion 20.

[0150] (m) In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, a plurality of switch sections 20 are provided along the width direction W which intersects with the inclination direction of the inclined section 135, and the inclined section 135 is formed with a constant width spanning the plurality of switch sections 20.

[0151] In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, by having the configuration described in (m) above, the inclined portion 135 is formed with a constant width spanning multiple switch portions 20. The inclined portion 135 is formed uniformly without any change in width along the width direction W. The operator's fingers are smoothly guided along the inclined portion 135 toward the switch portions 20. Therefore, by having the configuration described in (m) above, the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment can improve the operability of the multiple switch portions 20.

[0152] The handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment has the configuration described in (m) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The handle structure 100 may also not have some or all of the configuration described in (m) above. As described in the above modified example, the inclined portion 135 may be formed with a portion corresponding to the first switch portion 21 and a portion corresponding to the second switch portion 25 separated along the width direction W. This configuration is advantageous in that an individually optimized inclination angle can be set for each switch portion 20.

[0153] (n) In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, the cover member 130 has a flat portion 131 between the inclined portion 135 and the switch portion 20 that is substantially flush with the switch surface on which the switch portion 20 is provided.

[0154] In the second embodiment, the handle structure 100, by having the configuration described in (n) above, has a flat portion 131 between the inclined portion 135 and the switch portion 20 of the cover member 130. The flat portion 131 is substantially flush with the switch surface. The light from the license plate lamp passes through the flat portion 131 and travels toward the license plate 52. The light maintains its straight-line direction as it passes through the flat portion 131. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the handle structure 100, by having the configuration described in (n) above, can improve the illumination performance toward the upper end of the license plate 52.

[0155] (o) In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, the license lamp has an LED chip 4 as a light source mounted on the substrate 2, and the LED chip 4 is positioned with its optical axis toward the planar portion 131 of the cover member 130.

[0156] In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, by having the configuration described in (o) above, the optical axis of the LED chip 4 is positioned toward the planar portion 131. The light emitted from the LED chip 4 is incident on the planar portion 131 substantially perpendicularly. As the light passes through the planar portion 131, it maintains its straight-line propagation and travels toward the license plate 52. Therefore, by having the configuration described in (o) above, the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment can achieve direct illumination of the license plate 52, further improving illumination performance.

[0157] (p) In the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, the LED chip 4 is positioned at a location corresponding to approximately the center of the license plate 52 in the width direction.

[0158] In the second embodiment, the handle structure 100, with the configuration described in (p) above, has the LED chip 4 positioned approximately in the center of the license plate 52 in the width direction. The light emitted from the LED chip 4 reaches both sides of the license plate 52 equally. The left and right portions of the license plate 52 are illuminated with approximately the same illuminance. Therefore, the handle structure 100, with the configuration described in (p) above, can illuminate the entire license plate 52 evenly.

[0159] The handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment includes the configuration described in (p) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The handle structure 100 may also be configured without some or all of the configuration described in (p) above. As explained in the above modified example, if the mounting position of the license plate 52 is offset from the center of the vehicle, the position of the LED chip 4 should be adjusted accordingly. This configuration is advantageous in that it allows for flexible adaptation to the specifications of the vehicle.

[0160] (q) The handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment further comprises an LED chip 4 mounted on a substrate 2 as a light source for a license lamp, and a housing portion 10 provided to protrude outward from the back door 50, wherein a partition wall 116 is provided inside the housing portion 10, and the partition wall 116 divides the internal space of the housing portion 10 into a first chamber 116a where the LED chip 4 is arranged and a second chamber 116b on the opposite side from the side where the LED chip 4 is arranged, the housing portion 10 has a heat dissipation groove 17 that communicates with the outside, the partition wall 116 is positioned on the extension of the heat dissipation groove 17 and has an end at a position spaced apart from the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17 on the internal space side, the partition wall 116 is provided with a recess 116c that forms a gap between it and the substrate 2, and the first chamber 116a and the second chamber 116b communicate with each other via the recess 116c.

[0161] The handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, by having the configuration described in (q) above, can dissipate heat generated from the LED chip 4 to the outside through multiple paths. The heat in the first chamber 116a is discharged to the outside through the heat dissipation groove 17 by passing through the space between the end of the partition wall 116 and the opening of the heat dissipation groove 17. A portion of the heat in the first chamber 116a moves to the second chamber 116b through the recess 116c of the partition wall 116, and is then discharged to the outside through the heat dissipation groove 17. The second chamber 116b functions as a heat dissipation buffer space. Therefore, the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment, by having the configuration described in (q) above, can improve heat dissipation performance and extend the lifespan of the LED chip 4.

[0162] The handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment has the configuration described in (q) above, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The handle structure 100 may also not have some or all of the configuration described in (q) above. As described in the above modifications, the partition wall 116 may be provided with a plurality of recesses 116c, and the recesses 116c may be notched, grooved, or through-holes. This configuration is advantageous in that it can be optimized according to the application that requires high heat dissipation performance.

[0163] The above describes the operation and effects of the handle structure 100 according to the second embodiment. The configuration of the second embodiment can be appropriately combined with the configuration described in the first embodiment and the configurations described as modifications.

[0164] The above describes various embodiments and modifications of the handle structure of the back door handle according to the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to those exemplified in the embodiments and modifications described above, and it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments may exist in the spirit and teachings thereof, without departing from the scope of the claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0165] This invention can be used for the back door handles of various vehicles. It is particularly suitable for the back door handles of small vehicles such as compact cars and kei cars. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0166] 1: Handle structure 3: License plate lamp 10: Housing Department 11: Support part 11A: Support surface 13: Flange section 13A: Flange surface 14: Water-stopping section 15: Reinforcement Ribs 20: Switch section 21: First switch section 25: Second switch section 30: Cover component 35: Inclined part 36: 1st slope part 37:Second slope part 40: Switch cover 50: Backdoor 52: License plate

Claims

1. A handle structure for a back door handle that combines at least one switch for unlocking or locking the back door of a vehicle and a license lamp for illuminating the license plate provided on the back door, At least a portion of the cover member has a cover member that transmits light from the license plate lamp, The handle structure is characterized in that the cover member has an inclined portion formed in the portion that transmits light from the license lamp, which slopes toward the switch portion.

2. The switch portion is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion, The handle structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the inclined portion is positioned at least at a location corresponding to the central portion in the width direction of the switch portion.

3. The switch portion is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined portion, The handle structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the inclined portion is formed to extend along the width direction of the switch portion so as to be greater than or equal to the width of the switch portion.

4. The switch section is formed with a predetermined width in a direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined section, and multiple switches are provided along the width direction. The handle structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the inclined portion is divided in the width direction for each of the multiple switch portions, and each of the divided inclined portions is arranged to be at a different level from one another.

5. The switch section comprises a first switch section and a second switch section. The first switch section is formed such that its length in the width direction is longer than its length in the vertical direction. The handle structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second switch portion has a vertical length longer than the vertical length of the first switch portion.

6. The handle structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the inclined portion is formed such that the length in the depth direction intersecting the width direction of the switch portion is narrower than the length in the depth direction of the switch portion.

7. Multiple switch units are provided along the width direction intersecting the inclination direction of the inclined section. The handle structure according to claim 6, characterized in that the inclined portion is formed such that its length in the depth direction is constant across a plurality of the switch portions.

8. The handle structure according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the cover member has a flat portion between the inclined portion and the switch portion that is substantially flush with the switch surface on which the switch portion is provided.

9. The aforementioned license lamp has a light source mounted on a circuit board, The handle structure according to claim 8, characterized in that the light source has an optical axis directed toward the planar portion of the cover member.

10. The handle structure according to claim 9, characterized in that the light source is positioned at a location corresponding to approximately the center of the license plate in the width direction.

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