Structure and vehicle seat

Abstract

To provide a structure which can achieve reduction of the thickness and weight without impairing strength and rigidity.SOLUTION: A structure (a seat back frame 16) includes: a structure part (a seat back shell 17); and a metal component (an upper arm 18) joined to the structure part. A hollow cross section part 70 is formed between the structure part and the metal component. A functional component (a reclining motor 25) is disposed at the hollow cross section part. It is preferable that the metal component be joined to a bead part 30 of the structure part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a structure and a vehicle seat, and more particularly to a structure formed by joining a metal part to a structural portion, and a vehicle seat provided with the same. [Background technology]

[0002] A conventional structure is generally known that includes a structural part and a metal part joined to the structural part (see, for example, Patent Document 1, etc.). In a typical joined structure between a structural part and a metal part, for example, as shown in Fig. 11, the metal part 118 has a shape that matches the surface shape of the structural part 117, and is fastened to the surface where the metal part 118 is attached to the structural part 117 using a fastener 163, and a functional part 125 is often attached to the outside of the metal part 118. Patent Document 1 discloses a seat back frame for a vehicle seat, which is formed by fastening a metal upper arm (metal part) to a seat back shell (structural part). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-202595 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the conventional joint structure between the structural part 117 and the metal part 118, the metal part 118 has a shape that matches the surface shape of the structural part 117, and the metal part 118 is fastened to the surface where the structural part 117 is attached using fasteners 163, resulting in a cross-sectional shape that is disadvantageous in terms of strength and rigidity when attempting to reduce the thickness and weight. Also, since the functional part 125 is attached to the outside of the metal part 118, there are cases where the configuration is difficult due to dimensional restrictions on the width of the structural part and interference with other parts placed nearby. Furthermore, there are concerns about the impact of the functional part 125 on the outside (e.g., heat, sound, etc.) and the impact of the outside on the functional part 125 (e.g., impact, etc.).

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned current situation, and has an object to provide a structure that can be made thin and lightweight without compromising strength and rigidity, and a vehicle seat equipped with the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1 is a structure comprising a structural part and a metal part joined to the structural part, wherein a hollow cross-sectional part is formed between the structural part and the metal part, and a functional part is disposed in the hollow cross-sectional part. The invention described in claim 2 is the invention described in claim 1, wherein the structural part has a bead portion which is a concave rib on one side and a convex rib on the opposite side, and the metal part is joined to the bead portion. The invention described in claim 3 is the invention described in claim 2, wherein a reinforcing band including continuous fibers bound with a matrix resin and laid along the extension direction of the bead portion is integrally provided in the bead portion. The invention described in claim 4 is characterized in that, in the invention described in claim 2 or 3, the metal parts are arranged on both the left and right sides of the structural portion in the width direction, and are joined to the bead portions that connect the hollow cross-sectional portions formed on both the left and right sides of the structural portion in the width direction. The invention described in claim 5 is characterized in that, in the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 4, the metal part has a step portion and is joined to the structural part on both sides spanning the step portion. The invention described in claim 6 is characterized in that in the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 5, the metal part is provided with an engaged part onto which an engaging part provided on another part is hooked. The invention described in claim 7 is characterized in that, in the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 6, the structural part is made of a fiber-reinforced resin containing dispersed discontinuous fibers and / or a fiber-reinforced resin containing a woven fabric using continuous fibers. The invention as set forth in claim 8 is characterized in that in the invention as set forth in any one of claims 1 to 7, the structural portion is formed in a shell shape. In order to solve the above problems, the invention described in claim 9 is directed to a vehicle seat comprising a seat back frame formed of the structure described in any one of claims 1 to 8. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the structure of the present invention, a hollow cross-sectional portion is formed between the structural portion and the metal part, and a functional part is disposed in the hollow cross-sectional portion. This allows the structure to be thin and lightweight without impairing strength and rigidity. In addition, functional equipment can be mounted without interfering with other parts disposed in the vicinity of the structure. In addition, it is possible to block or reduce the influence of the functional part on the outside (e.g., heat, sound, etc.) and the influence of the outside on the functional part (e.g., impact, etc.). Furthermore, when the structural part includes a bead portion and the metal part is joined to the bead portion, the bead portion reinforces the joint between the structural part and the metal part, further improving strength and rigidity. Furthermore, when a reinforcing band containing continuous fibers bonded with a matrix resin and laid along the extension direction of the bead portion is integrally provided with the bead portion, the reinforcing band reinforces the joint between the structural portion and the metal part, further improving the strength and rigidity. Furthermore, when the metal parts are arranged on both the left and right sides of the structural part in the width direction and are joined to the bead portion that connects the hollow cross-sectional portions formed on both the left and right sides of the structural part in the width direction, the bead reinforces the joint between the structural part and the metal parts, further improving strength and rigidity. In addition, when the metal part has a step portion and is joined to the structural part on both sides spanning the step portion, the step portion reinforces the joint between the structural part and the metal part, further improving strength and rigidity. Furthermore, in the case where the metal part is provided with a locked portion onto which a locking portion provided on another part is hooked, a hooking structure for the other part can be formed by utilizing the metal part. Furthermore, when the structural portion is made of fiber reinforced resin, it is possible to achieve further weight reduction without impairing strength and rigidity. Furthermore, when the structural portion is formed in a shell shape, it is possible to achieve further reduction in thickness and weight.

[0008] The vehicle seat of the present invention is provided with the above-mentioned structure. This allows the seat to be thin and lightweight without compromising strength and rigidity. Also, functional equipment can be mounted without interfering with other components. Furthermore, it is possible to block or reduce the effects of the functional components on the outside (e.g., heat, sound, etc.) and the effects of the outside on the functional components (e.g., impact, etc.). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] The present invention will be further described in the following detailed description by way of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments according to the invention and with reference to the several drawings mentioned, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a seat back frame (in an assembled state) according to the embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a seat back frame (disassembled state). [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a main part of FIG. [Diagram 5] 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bead portion according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a bead portion according to another embodiment. [Figure 8] 1 is a side view of a vehicle seat according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 11A and 11B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the arrangement of reinforcing bands in other embodiments, where (a) and (b) show an arrangement across the side walls and connecting walls on the convex surface of the bead portion, (c) shows an arrangement across the connecting walls on the concave surface of the bead portion, and (d) and (e) show an arrangement across the side walls and connecting walls on the concave surface of the bead portion. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a structure according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams for explaining a conventional joining structure between a structural portion and a metal component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The matters shown herein are illustrative and are intended to exemplify the embodiments of the present invention, and are described for the purpose of providing what is believed to be the most effective and easily understandable explanation of the principles and conceptual features of the present invention. In this respect, it is not intended to show structural details of the present invention beyond the extent necessary for a fundamental understanding of the present invention, and the description in conjunction with the drawings will make it clear to those skilled in the art how some forms of the present invention can be actually embodied.

[0011] <Structure> The structure according to this embodiment is, for example, a structure 16 comprising a structural portion 17 and a metal part 18 joined to the structural portion 17, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, in which a hollow cross-sectional portion 70 is formed between the structural portion 17 and the metal part 18, and a functional part 25 is arranged in the hollow cross-sectional portion 70.

[0012] The material, shape, size, etc. of the structure 17 are not particularly limited. The shape of the structure 17 can be, for example, a three-dimensional shape having projections and recesses. It can further include a curved shape, a flat shape, etc. These shapes may include only one type, or two or more types at the same time. That is, for example, it can be a three-dimensional shape that includes a composite projection-recess shape, a curved shape, and a flat shape. In addition, it can have a cylindrical shape, a polygonal tube shape, etc. The structural part 17 is preferably in a shell shape in order to achieve both light weight and strength (see FIG. 2). The shell shape may be said to have a general shape that is broadly concave toward the center. For example, a seat back shell of a vehicle seat can be cited as a representative example, as described later.

[0013] The material of the structural part 17 is not limited, but resin can be used because it is both lightweight and strong. The type of resin is not limited, and it may be a thermoplastic resin or a curable resin (various curable resins regardless of the curing method), and may further be used in combination depending on the purpose. That is, for example, it may be a structure that is injection molded using a thermoplastic resin. Furthermore, the structural part 17 may be formed only from resin, but may contain reinforcing fibers from the viewpoint of improving strength. That is, the structural part 17 can be formed using a fiber-reinforced resin that contains a resin (matrix resin) and reinforcing fibers bonded by the resin.

[0014] Among the resins (matrix resins in the case of containing reinforcing fibers) that can constitute the structural portion 17, examples of thermoplastic resins include polyolefin, polyester, polyamide, polycarbonate, acrylic resin, fluorine-containing thermoplastic resin, polyimide, polyamideimide, and further, resin alloys (composite resins) containing two or more of these thermoplastic resins. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. On the other hand, examples of curable resins include epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester resin, phenol resin, urea resin, melamine resin, diallyl phthalate resin, vinyl ester resin, and the like. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0015] The reinforcing fibers may be continuous or non-continuous, or they may be used in combination. In general, continuous fibers have a fiber length of 15 mm or more, and non-continuous fibers have a fiber length of less than 15 mm. When non-continuous fibers are used, a mixture of resin and non-continuous fibers can be injection molded. The injection-molded structure 17 becomes a fiber-reinforced resin in which non-continuous fibers are dispersed and contained in the resin. On the other hand, when continuous fibers are used, the fiber-reinforced resin becomes one in which the continuous fibers are bonded with the resin. The continuous fibers may be contained in the fiber-reinforced resin simply in a drawn-up state, or may be contained as a woven fabric or the like.

[0016] The material constituting the reinforcing fibers is not limited, and may be inorganic fibers, organic fibers, or a combination of these. Examples of inorganic fibers include carbon fibers, activated carbon fibers, glass fibers, ceramic fibers (silicates, titanates, alumina, etc.), metal fibers, boron fibers, etc. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Examples of organic fibers include natural fibers and synthetic fibers. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, synthetic fibers include fibers formed from synthetic resin into a fiber shape. Examples of such synthetic resin fibers include polyamide resin fibers (aliphatic polyamides (nylon fibers, etc.), aromatic polyamides (aramid fibers, trade name "Kevlar", etc.), polyester resin fibers (aliphatic polyesters, aromatic polyesters (polyethylene terephthalate fibers, polyethylene naphthalate fibers, etc.), polyolefin resin fibers (high molecular weight polyolefins (trade name "Dyneema", etc.), polybenzazole resin fibers (polyparaphenylene benzobisoxazole fibers (trade name "Zylon", etc.)).

[0017] The reinforcing fibers are preferably fibers having high tensile strength, for example, fibers having a tensile strength of 7 cN / dtex or more (usually 50 cN / dtex) according to JIS L1015. Furthermore, the form of the reinforcing fiber is not limited, and it may be a spun yarn, a filament yarn, or a combination of these. Furthermore, it may be a monofilament, a multifilament, or a combination of these.

[0018] Among the above, carbon fiber is particularly preferable for the present structure 16. The type of carbon fiber is not limited, and examples thereof include PAN (polyacrylonitrile)-based carbon fiber, pitch-based carbon fiber, etc. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. The carbon fibers can be used as filaments, but may also be used as bundles (tows). The number of carbon fibers constituting the bundle is not limited, and may be, for example, 3000 or more. By having 3000 or more continuous fibers constituting the bundle, it is possible to exhibit excellent strength as a core material while being flexible. In addition, the number of continuous fibers may be, for example, 3000 or more and 100,000 or less, further 5000 or more and 70,000 or less, further 7000 or more and 50,000 or less, further 10,000 or more and 30,000 or less.

[0019] The structural part 17 can have, for example, a bead part 30 that is a concave stripe on one side 17a and a convex stripe on the opposite side 17b (see FIG. 6). The bead part 30 is a part of the structural part 17 and is an integral part formed integrally with the structural part 17. By having the bead part 30, the strength and rigidity of the structure 17 are improved compared to when the structure 17 does not have the bead part 30. Furthermore, as described above, the bead part 30 is formed to be a concave stripe on one side 17a of the structural part 17 and a convex stripe on the opposite side 17b, so that the bead part, which is a reinforcing structure, can be formed thin. Therefore, significant strength reinforcement can be achieved while suppressing an increase in the weight of the structure 16. The bead portion 30 may be recessed toward either the front or back side of the structural portion 17, or may be protruding toward either side, but for example, when the structural portion 17 is shell-shaped, it is preferable that the bead portion 30 is recessed on the side where the general shape of the structural portion 17 is recessed, and the bead portion 30 is protruding on the side where the general shape of the structural portion 17 is protruding. Furthermore, there is no particular limit to the number of bead portions 30, and one or more may be provided.

[0020] As described above, the bead portion 30 needs only to have a concave rib on one side 17a of the structural portion 17 and a convex rib on the opposite side 17b, and its cross-sectional shape is not limited, but examples include a U-shape, a C-shape, a cup shape, an arc shape, a V-shape, etc. Among these, the U-shape includes a form in which the pair of side walls 41 facing each other and a connecting wall 42 connecting the edges of the pair of side walls 41 are arranged substantially parallel to each other in a substantially flat plate shape, and the connecting wall 42 is curved so as to be concave inward. Also included may be a form in which the pair of side walls 41 of this U-shape are arranged so that the distance between the side walls 41 increases toward the open end. The U-shaped configuration also includes a configuration in which the pair of side walls 41 facing each other and a connecting wall 42 connecting the edges of the pair of side walls 41 are arranged approximately parallel to each other in a generally flat plate shape, and the connecting wall 42 is arranged approximately perpendicular to the side walls 41 in a generally flat plate shape. Furthermore, the cup shape includes a pair of side walls 41 opposed to each other and a connecting wall 42 connecting the edges of the pair of side walls 41, in which the pair of side walls 41 are arranged non-parallel to each other in a generally flat plate shape, the side walls 41 are connected to the connecting wall 42 at an angle exceeding 90 degrees, and the pair of side walls 41 are arranged such that the distance between the side walls 41 increases toward the open end. The arc shape also includes a form in which the curved shape comprises a pair of side walls 41 and a connecting wall 42 that connects the edges of the pair of side walls 41, and the side walls 41 and the connecting wall 42 are curved so as to be continuously concave inward. Furthermore, the V-shape also includes a mode in which the edges of a pair of side walls 41 are connected to each other so that they are concave inward.

[0021] The size of the bead portion 30 is not limited, but usually, in its cross-sectional shape, the ratio (t4 / t3) of the thickness t3 of the structure 17 around the bead portion 30 to the depth t4 (maximum depth) of the bead portion 30 can be 0.1 to 50, preferably 0.5 to 25, and more preferably 1 to 10. However, the depth (height) of the bead portion 30 may be constant in the longitudinal direction of the bead portion 30, or may vary.

[0022] Moreover, the bead portion 30 is usually elongated. Therefore, the bead portion 30 can act like a beam in the structure 16, and can reinforce a wide range including the area other than the area where the bead portion 30 is formed. For this reason, the bead portion 30 may be provided only in a part of the structure 17, but it is more preferable to provide the bead portion 30 so as to transversely or longitudinally cross the structure 17. That is, for example, the bead portion 30A extending in the width direction of the structure 17, the bead portion 30B extending in the length direction of the structure 17, the bead portions 30C and 30D extending along the outer edge of the structure 17, etc. can be mentioned. Furthermore, the bead portions 30 can be arranged so as not to intersect each other, but from the viewpoint of torsional strength, etc., a plurality of bead portions 30 can be arranged so as to intersect. For example, a pair of bead portions 30B can be arranged so as to intersect in an X-shape (see FIG. 2). In addition, the bead portion 30 may be formed in a straight line or a curved line when viewed from above, or may be formed in a composite shape having both straight and curved lines. The number and arrangement of the bead portions are not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the application.

[0023] The bead portion 30 can be configured, for example, so as to form a hollow portion 40 at the concave surface 30a (see FIG. 6). This hollow portion 40 can be used as a space for routing long objects such as electric wires and fluid pipes.

[0024] There is no particular restriction on the function, shape, size, etc. of the metal part 18. Examples of the metal part 18 include metal fittings for connecting, fastening, welding, etc., the structural part 17 to other members. Examples of such metal fittings include hinge fittings that allow the structural part 17 to rotate freely relative to other members, connecting fittings such as bracket fittings and joint fittings that are fixed to other members, stay fittings that are supported by other members, angle fittings that are fixed at a predetermined angle to other members, fastening fittings that are fastened to other members, etc. Examples of the shape of the metal part 18 include an L-shaped cross section, a flat plate, a long plate, a T-shaped plane, a hook shape, a rod shape, etc. In particular, from the viewpoint of strength, rigidity, etc., it is preferable that the metal part 18 has a first surface portion 61 and a second surface portion 62 that intersect with each other. Examples of materials for the metal part 18 include iron, steel, aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper, and stainless steel. Further, examples of the joining method of the metal part 18 to the structural part 17 include fastening using fasteners such as screws and rivets, insert molding, adhesion using an adhesive, welding such as laser welding and vibration welding, etc. Among these, from the viewpoint of joining workability, etc., fastening using the fasteners 63 and 64 is preferable.

[0025] The metal part 18 can be joined, for example, to the above-mentioned bead portion 30 (see FIG. 4). In this joining form, the metal part 18 can be joined to at least one of the side wall 41 and the connecting wall 42 of the bead portion 30. The metal parts 18 can be arranged, for example, on both the left and right sides of the structural part 17 in the width direction B, and joined to bead portions 30D that connect the hollow cross-sectional portions 70 formed on both the left and right sides of the structural part 17 in the width direction B (see FIG. 1). Also, the metal part 18 can have, for example, a step portion 69, and can be joined to the structural part 17 on both sides spanning the step portion 69 (see FIG. 5). In this case, for example, the step portion 69 of the metal part 18 is assigned to an intersection portion (i.e., the step portion 43) where the bead portions 30B and 30D having different heights of convex stripes intersect, and both sides spanning the step portion 69 of the metal part 18 can be joined to the bead portions 30B and 30D having different heights of convex stripes, respectively. Furthermore, the metal part 18 may be provided with, for example, a locked part 66 on which a locking part 22a provided on the other part 22 is hooked (see FIG. 4). An example of the other part is a cover 22 that covers a structural part. Furthermore, the locked part 66 may be disposed on, for example, a bent part 67 (e.g., a bent part 67 formed by hemming) formed on the edge side of the metal part 18. This can increase the locking strength. Furthermore, the locking part 22a and the locked part 66 may be, for example, a hole part, a hook part, etc.

[0026] The bead portion 30 to which the metal component 18 is joined may be integrally provided with a reinforcing band 50 (see FIG. 6) including continuous fibers 52 bonded with a matrix resin 51 and laid along the extension direction (longitudinal direction) of the bead portion 30. It is preferable that the continuous fibers 52 are substantially aligned in the same direction. The reinforcing band 50 is integrally joined to the bead portion 30 along the concave surface 30a and / or the convex surface 30b of the bead portion 30, and the continuous fibers 52 are laid along the extension direction of the bead portion 30. Specifically, for example, the reinforcing band 50 may be provided to cover the bottom of the concave surface 30a and / or the top of the convex surface 30b of the bead portion 30. More specifically, the reinforcing band 50 may be disposed on only one of the side walls 41 and the connecting wall 42 constituting the bead portion 30, or may be disposed across the side walls 41 and the connecting wall 42 (see FIG. 9). In this case, the reinforcing band 50 may be disposed on the entire surface of the side walls 41 and / or the connecting wall 42, or may be disposed on a necessary portion of the surface of the side walls 41 and / or the connecting wall 42. Furthermore, the reinforcing band 50 may be arranged, for example, on the surface side of the bead portion 30 that contacts the metal component 50, or on the surface side of the bead portion 30 opposite the metal component 50. The structural portion 17 may also be provided with the reinforcing band 50 so that it has the same thickness as the periphery 17s of the reinforcing portion 17 not provided with the reinforcing band 50, but it is preferable to provide the reinforcing band 50 so that it is thicker than the periphery 17s of the reinforcing portion 17. In this embodiment, the reinforcing effect can be obtained more significantly. Similarly, when comparing the thickness t1 of the bead portion 30 provided with the reinforcing band 50 and the thickness t2 of the bead portion 30 not provided with the reinforcing band 50, the two may be formed to have the same thickness, but it is preferable to form the thickness t1 to be thicker. In this embodiment, the reinforcing effect can be obtained more significantly.

[0027] That is, the reinforcing band 50 is provided in order to lay the continuous fibers 52 along the extension direction of the bead portion 30. By laying the continuous fibers 52 along the extension direction of the bead portion 30, it is possible to obtain more excellent strength reinforcement than when only the bead portion 30 is provided. In particular, as described above, this is a useful reinforcement when the structural part 17 (including the bead part 30) is made of fiber-reinforced resin and the reinforcing fibers are discontinuous fibers or when the reinforcing fibers are included as a woven fabric. When the reinforcing fibers are discontinuous fibers, the structural part 17 can be molded more easily by injection molding or the like. However, when the force applied to the structural part 17 is input widely across the upper end and the lower end, or across the left end and the right end, for example, the structural part 17 alone cannot have reinforcing fibers extended along the input range. That is, since discontinuous fibers are short in length and are contained in the structural part 17 facing various directions, they cannot have the property of strongly contributing to a specific direction. The same is true when the reinforcing fibers are included as a woven fabric, and since the entire amount of the reinforcing fibers contained cannot be oriented in the required direction, some reinforcing fibers that do not contribute to reinforcement are included. This tendency is more pronounced when the structural part 17 is shell-shaped. In other words, when an external input is applied to the structure 16, if the structural portion 17 is shell-shaped, the input in a wide area where the bead portion 30 is not formed is likely to be concentrated at the bead portion 30, and a larger force may act on the bead portion 30.

[0028] In contrast, when a bead portion 30 requiring reinforcement is provided and the reinforcing band 50 is provided so that the continuous fibers 52 are laid along the extension direction of the bead portion 30, the entire amount of the laid continuous fibers 52 can be used as a reinforcing element against the input applied to the bead portion 30. In other words, since the bead portion 30 is a reinforcing structure that is attached with a determined installation direction, the reinforcement provided by the bead portion 30 is in the extension direction of the bead portion 30. Therefore, in the bead portion 30, the reinforcement path is clear, and the reinforcing effect of the reinforcing band 50 can be obtained extremely significantly.

[0029] The reinforcing band 50 may include a matrix resin 51 and continuous fibers 52, but may include other components. Specifically, the reinforcing band 50 may include a base fabric 54 and sewing threads. That is, as described above, the effect of paralleling the continuous fibers 52 is more easily obtained when the continuous fibers 52 are bundled together than when they are used separately. For this reason, the continuous fibers 52 are preferably used as bundled fiber bundles 53. When using the fiber bundles 53, it is preferable to use a base material for fixing the orientation direction of the fiber bundles 53, and the base material may be the base fabric 54. The base fabric 54 can function to gather a plurality of fiber bundles 53 together for easy handling. The fiber bundles 53 may be fixed to the base fabric 54 in any manner, but can be fixed in particular by sewing. In this case, the fiber bundles 53 can be sewn and fixed to the base fabric 54 using sewing thread. In this way, in the core material formed by sewing the fiber bundles 53 with sewing thread, the core material can be easily impregnated with the matrix resin 51, which is advantageous for compounding as a fiber reinforced resin.

[0030] That is, for example, the reinforcing band 50 can include fiber bundles 53 bundling continuous fibers 52, a base fabric 54 in which the fiber bundles 53 are arranged, and a matrix resin 51 impregnated and fixed into the fiber bundles 53 and the base fabric 54. The fiber bundle 53 may or may not have a twist. Furthermore, the fiber bundle 53 may contain fibers (non-reinforced fibers) other than the continuous fibers 52 (reinforced fibers). The fiber bundle 53 may be bundled in any manner. For example, the bundle may be realized by simply pulling together a plurality of continuous fibers 52. Alternatively, the bundle may be realized by binding a plurality of continuous fibers 52 using a thread (bundling thread). Alternatively, the bundle may be realized by binding the continuous fibers 52 together using other agents such as an adhesive, a pressure sensitive adhesive, or a heat fusion agent.

[0031] The material of the continuous fibers 52 constituting the reinforcing band 50 is not limited, but the same material as the continuous fibers 52 used when the structural portion 17 is formed from fiber-reinforced resin can be used. Of the above, carbon fibers are particularly preferable. The type of carbon fiber is not limited, and examples include PAN (polyacrylonitrile) carbon fibers and pitch carbon fibers. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. Carbon fibers can be used as filaments, but when used as fiber bundles 53 as described above, the number of continuous fibers 52 constituting one fiber bundle 53 is not particularly limited. This number can be, for example, 3000 or more. By having 3000 or more continuous fibers 52 constituting one fiber bundle 53, the fiber bundle 53 can exhibit excellent strength as a core material while being flexible. The number of continuous fibers 52 can be, for example, 3000 or more and 100,000 or less, 5000 or more and 70,000 or less, 7000 or more and 50,000 or less, and 10,000 or more and 30,000 or less. The continuous fibers 52 usually have a fiber length of 15 mm or more.

[0032] The fiber bundle 53 may be a thick bundle 53 in which the number of continuous fibers 52 constituting one fiber bundle is increased. When a thick bundle is used, the number of continuous fibers 52 may be, for example, 30,000 or more, further 40,000 or more, and further 60,000 or more. On the other hand, when a thick bundle is used, the number of continuous fibers 52 may be, for example, 1,500,000 or less, and further 1,000,000 or less.

[0033] The fiber bundles 53 may be arranged, for example, in one layer on the base fabric 54, or in two or more layers on the base fabric 54 (see FIG. 7). From the viewpoint of suppressing stress concentration, etc., it is possible to provide on both sides in the width direction of the reinforcing band 50 portions 56 having fewer layers of fiber bundles 53 than on the intermediate side sandwiched between the two sides, or portions having larger intervals between adjacent fiber bundles 53. These portions can be gradually changing portions in which the number of layers of fiber bundles 53 gradually decreases or the intervals between adjacent fiber bundles 53 gradually increase from the intermediate side to both sides in the width direction of the reinforcing band 50.

[0034] There is no particular limit to the material of the base fabric 54. The material of the base fabric 54 may be a fiber assembly (woven fabric, knitted fabric, nonwoven fabric, etc.), a metal sheet (foil, plate, etc.), a resin sheet (film, plate, etc.), etc. These may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The method of fixing the fiber bundle 53 to the base cloth 54 is not particularly limited. Examples of the fixing method include sewing, adhesion, and fusion. Among these fixing methods, sewing is preferable. An advantage of sewing is that the fiber bundle 53 can be fixed to the base cloth 54 without crimping. Another advantage of sewing is that the degree of restraint of the fiber bundle 53 can be freely controlled by the tension of the sewing thread (not shown). For example, when the fiber bundle 53 is sewn to the base cloth 54, the fiber bundle 53 can be firmly fixed to the base cloth 54 while the mobility of the fiber bundle 53 (the mobility with respect to the base cloth 54 and / or the mobility between the fiber bundles 53) can be ensured. The mobility of the fiber bundle 53 provides flexibility to the reinforcing band 50.

[0035] When the fiber bundles 53 are sewn to the base fabric 54, it is preferable to use a fiber assembly as the material for the base fabric 54. That is, when a fiber assembly is used for the base fabric 54, it is easy to sew the fiber bundles 53 and it is possible to impart flexibility to the reinforcing band 50. The fiber assembly may be any of woven fabric, knitted fabric, and nonwoven fabric. Of these, woven fabric is preferable. Advantages of woven fabric include that it is easy to obtain a balance between flexibility and rigidity, and the binding force of the sewing thread used for sewing is high. The weave of the woven fabric is not particularly limited, but is preferably a flat weave such as 1×1, 2×2, 3×3, etc. The flat weave is preferably finer than 5×5, more preferably 4×4 or finer, further preferably 3×3 or finer, and particularly preferably 2×2 or finer. The constituent yarns of the fiber assembly are not particularly limited. The constituent yarns may be the same fibers as the continuous fibers 52 constituting the fiber bundle 53, or different fibers may be used. Specifically, the constituent yarns may be various resin fibers, vegetable fibers, etc. Specific examples of the resins constituting the resin fibers include polyamides (aliphatic polyamides, aromatic polyamides, etc.), polyesters (polyesters having constituent units derived from aromatic dicarboxylic acids, etc.). Specific examples of the vegetable fibers include cotton fibers, hemp fibers, etc. The fineness of the constituent yarns is not particularly limited. It is preferable that the fineness is smaller than that of the fiber bundle 53.

[0036] The reinforcing band 50 is formed by arranging fiber bundles 53 in parallel on one surface of the base fabric 54. The form of the reinforcing band 50 is not particularly limited. For example, this form may be a structure in which the fiber bundles 53 are arranged on the entire one surface of the base fabric 54, or a structure in which the fiber bundles 53 are arranged only in necessary portions of one surface of the base fabric 54. The reinforcing band 50 may be composed of only one fiber bundle 53, or may be composed of multiple fiber bundles 53. When the reinforcing band 50 is composed of only one fiber bundle 53, it can be realized by folding and arranging the single fiber bundle 53 so as to fill one surface of the base fabric 54. In this case, the folding shape of the fiber bundle 53 is not particularly limited. Examples of the folding shape include a bellows shape and a spiral shape (circular spiral, polygonal spiral, etc.) in a plan view. When the reinforcing band 50 is composed of multiple fiber bundles 53, it can be realized by arranging the multiple fiber bundles 53 in a line so as to fill one surface of the base fabric 54. In addition, one layer of the reinforcing band 50 can be formed so as to fill one surface of the base fabric 54 by folding and arranging one fiber bundle 53 and arranging the other multiple fiber bundles 53 in a line.

[0037] Since the reinforcing band 50 is not formed by weaving or knitting the fiber bundles 53, the fiber bundles 53 can be arranged in a plane without providing crimps. That is, the reinforcing band 50 suppresses the orientation of the fiber bundles 53 in the thickness direction, and can increase the flatness of the fiber bundles 53. As a result, the transmission of force via the orientation of the fiber bundles 53 in the thickness direction is suppressed, and excellent shock absorbing power can be exhibited.

[0038] The reinforcing band 50 may be arranged such that the base fabric 54 faces the structural portion 17, or the fiber bundle 53 faces the structural portion 17. The reinforcing band 50 may have only one layer, or may have a plurality of layers by laminating two or more layers. Furthermore, when the reinforcing band 50 has a plurality of layers, for example, in a portion where the plurality of bead portions 30 do not intersect, the arrangement directions of the fiber bundles 53 of each reinforcing band 50 may be parallel, and in a portion where the plurality of bead portions 30 intersect, the arrangement directions of the fiber bundles 30 of each reinforcing band 50 may intersect. This crossing angle is preferably greater than 0 degrees and equal to or less than 90 degrees (0 degrees < θ ≦ 90 degrees).

[0039] In the case of having a plurality of layers of reinforcing bands 50, for example, it is preferable that the base fabrics 54 of the reinforcing bands 50 are laminated so as to face each other. This is because the force propagation in the thickness direction of the reinforcing bands 50 can be controlled to a higher degree. That is, the fiber bundles 53 can highly suppress the force propagation in the thickness direction due to the absence of crimps. On the other hand, in the layer and between the layers in which the base fabrics 54 are arranged facing each other, the layer and between the layers have a structure in which the two layers of the base fabrics 54 are arranged side by side, so that the layer and between the layers of the base fabrics 54 have the effect of increasing the force propagation in the layer direction. In other words, by making it easier to form cracks in the layer direction, the impact force applied in the thickness direction can be efficiently dispersed in the layer direction, and the magnitude of the impact force in the thickness direction can be weakened. Furthermore, the reinforcing bands 50 are not limited to being configured in such a way that the base fabrics 54 of each band are stacked facing each other, but may also be configured in such a way that the fiber bundles 53 of each band are stacked facing each other, or in such a way that the base fabric 54 of one reinforcing band 50 and the fiber bundles 53 of the other reinforcing band 50 are stacked facing each other.

[0040] The matrix resin 51 is a resin that becomes the base material of the reinforcing band 50. That is, the matrix resin 51 is a resin that is impregnated and fixed (cured if it is a curable resin, solidified if it is a thermoplastic resin) so as to permeate the inside of the fiber bundles 53 and the base fabric 54. As a method for impregnating and fixing the matrix resin 51, various conventionally known methods can be used. The matrix resin 51 constituting the reinforcing band 50 is similar to the resin capable of constituting the structural portion 17 (the matrix resin when it contains reinforcing fibers). When both the structural part 17 and the reinforcing band 50 are made of fiber-reinforced resin, the matrix resins used therefor may be different, but are preferably of the same quality, and more preferably of the same resin. When they are of the same quality or the same resin, the bonding at the interface between the structural part 17 and the reinforcing band 50 can be improved, and a stronger reinforcing structure can be obtained. The term "same quality" refers to cases where both matrix resins are polyolefins, polyamides, polyesters, or epoxy resins. In other words, cases where the resin types are the same are included. On the other hand, cases where the resins are the same include cases where the specific resins themselves are the same, such as cases where both polypropylenes are used, or cases where both polyamide 6 are used, etc.

[0041] Furthermore, the reinforcing band 50 can have a transition region in the matrix resin 51 on the bonding surface side with the bead portion 30. By having a transition region, the bonding strength between the bead portion 30 and the reinforcing band 50 can be improved. Specifically, a transition region between the two constituent materials can be mentioned. That is, for example, when the structural portion 17 is made of a fiber reinforced resin using discontinuous fibers, a region where the discontinuous fibers are contained at the interface of the reinforcing band 50 can be the transition region. Also, a region where the matrix resins of both are mixed can be the transition region.

[0042] The structure 16 can be used as a structure in which a structural part 17 having a bead part 30 with a reinforcing band 50 and a similar structural part 48 similarly made of a linear reinforced resin are arranged facing each other, and a core layer 47 is provided in the gap between the two (see FIG. 10). In this case, by using a foamed resin for the core layer 47, weight reduction can be achieved.

[0043] There are no particular limitations on the shape, size, location, etc., of the hollow cross-sectional portion 70. The hollow cross-sectional portion 70 may be formed, for example, by one or more bead portions 30. Furthermore, for example, a sound absorbing material 71 and / or a soundproofing material may be disposed in the hollow cross-sectional portion 70 (see FIG. 4). This makes it possible to more effectively block or reduce the sound generated by the functional component 25 to the outside.

[0044] There is no particular limitation on the type and mounting form of the functional part 25. Examples of the functional part 25 include a drive source such as a motor, a pump, or a cylinder, a mechanism driven by the drive source, and a control unit that controls the drive of the drive source. Furthermore, the functional component 25 may be disposed within the hollow cross-sectional portion 70 so that the entirety of the functional component 25 is contained therein, or may be disposed within the hollow cross-sectional portion 70 so that a portion of the functional component 25 protrudes to the outside. Furthermore, the functional part 25 may be attached to, for example, the structural part 17, but is preferably attached to the metal part 18. This is because the functional part 25 can be first assembled to the metal part 18, and the assembly can then be easily assembled to the structural part 17.

[0045] There is no particular limit to the use of the present structure 16. The present structure 16 can be used, for example, as an automobile part. Examples of automobile products include automobile exterior materials, automobile interior materials, automobile structural materials, automobile shock absorbing materials, engine room parts, and the like. Specific examples include bumpers, spoilers, cowlings, front grilles, garnishes, bonnets, trunk lids, cowl louvers, fender panels, rocker moldings, door panels, roof panels, instrument panels, center clusters, door trims, quarter trims, roof linings, pillar garnishes, deck trims, tonneau boards, package trays, dashboards, console boxes, kicking plates, switch bases, seat backboards, seat frames, armrests, sun visors, intake manifolds, engine head covers, engine under covers, oil filter housings, housings for automotive electronic components (ECUs, TV monitors, etc.), energy absorbers such as air filter boxes and rush boxes, and body shell components such as front end modules.

[0046] In addition to automobile parts, examples of the present structure 16 include interior materials, exterior materials, and structural materials for buildings and furniture. That is, examples include door surface materials, door structural materials, surface materials and structural materials for various furniture (desks, chairs, shelves, chests, etc.), as well as unit baths and septic tanks. Other examples include packaging bodies, containers (trays, etc.), protective members, and partition members. Examples also include molded articles such as housings and structures for home appliances (flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, mobile phones, portable game consoles, notebook computers, etc.).

[0047] <Vehicle seats> The vehicle seat 1 according to this embodiment includes a seat back frame 16 configured with the structural body according to the above embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 to 3. This seat back frame 16 can include, for example, a seat back shell 17 configured with the structural portion described above, and an upper arm 18 configured with the metal part described above.

[0048] The reference numerals of the components described in the above embodiment indicate the corresponding relationship with the specific components described in the following examples. EXAMPLES

[0049] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, a seat back frame 16 of a vehicle seat is exemplified as a "structure" according to the present invention (see FIG. 1).

[0050] As shown in FIG. 8, the vehicle seat 1 according to this embodiment includes a seat cushion 2 serving as a seating portion for a seated person and a seat back 3 serving as a backrest for the seated person. The seat cushion 2 includes a seat cushion frame 5 forming a framework. A cushion pad 6 and a skin cover 7 are attached to the seat cushion frame 5. The seat cushion frame 5 also includes a pair of left and right side frames 11, a front pipe 12 connecting the front ends of the side frames 11, and a rear pipe 13 connecting the rear ends of the side frames 11. Each of the side frames 11 is provided with a lower arm portion 14 used to connect the seat cushion frame 5 to a seat back frame 16 described later. The lower arm portion 14 is formed by protruding the upper edge portion of the rear end of the side frame 11 in a semicircular plate shape upward.

[0051] The seat back 3 includes a seat back frame 16 that constitutes a framework. The seat back frame 16 includes a seat back shell (exemplified as a "structural part" according to the present invention) 17 and a pair of left and right upper arms (exemplified as "metal parts" according to the present invention) 18 (see FIG. 1). A back pad 21 and a skin cover 22 are attached to the seat back shell 17 (see FIG. 3). The seat back shell 17 is formed into a concave three-dimensional shape (shell shape) as a whole, so as to fit the outer shape of the rear side of the upper body of the seated person so as to enhance the holding feeling when the seat back is rested. The upper arms 18 are provided so as to protrude downward from the lower end of the seat back shell 17 at both left and right ends of the seat back shell 17 in the width direction A. The upper arms 18 are metal fittings (e.g., iron fittings, etc.) used to connect the seat cushion frame 5 and the seat back frame 16, and are fastened to the seat back shell 17.

[0052] A recliner mechanism (gear mechanism) 24 that rotatably connects the seatback frame 16 to the seat cushion frame 5 is attached between the upper arm 18 and the lower arm portion 14. When the recliner mechanism 24 is operated by a reclining motor 25, the seatback frame 16 is rotated relative to the seat cushion frame 5, and the backrest angle can be adjusted to any angle. Furthermore, the left and right recliner mechanisms 24 are connected by a shaft 15 (see FIG. 2).

[0053] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the seatback shell 17 has a three-dimensional shell shape with a concave surface toward the front side as described above. A back pad 21 is disposed on the front side of the seatback shell 17 (see Fig. 3). The seatback shell 17 is formed with holes 63a and 64a through which fasteners 63 and 64 described later are inserted (see Fig. 2). The seatback shell 17 is made of a fiber-reinforced resin (e.g., epoxy resin, etc.) containing discontinuous fibers (e.g., carbon fibers, etc.) dispersed therein, and / or a fiber-reinforced resin (e.g., epoxy resin, etc.) containing a woven fabric using continuous fibers (e.g., carbon fibers, etc.). When the vehicle seat 1 is mounted on the vehicle, the front side of the seatback shell 17 usually faces the front of the vehicle, and the back side of the seatback shell 17 faces the rear of the vehicle. 1 indicates a hole penetrating the front and rear of the seatback shell 17. Furthermore, the reference numeral 29 in FIG 3 indicates a cover made of resin or the like that covers the upper arm 18.

[0054] The seat back shell 17 has a plurality of bead portions 30A, 30B, 30C, and 30D (see FIG. 2). Each of the bead portions 30A to 30D has a pair of side walls 41 facing each other and a connecting wall 42 connecting the tips of the pair of side walls 41 to each other. The dashed arrows in FIG. 2 indicate the extension directions of the bead portions 30A to 30D.

[0055] The bead portion (also referred to as a "wide bead") 30A is arranged to extend in the width direction A of the seatback shell 17. More specifically, the bead portion 30A is arranged to connect the parts of the seatback shell 17 that support the shoulders and back of the seated occupant. The bead portion (also referred to as a "main bead") 30B is arranged to extend in the vertical width direction (up-down direction) B of the seatback shell 17 and cross in an X shape. More specifically, the bead portion 30B is arranged to connect the parts of the seatback shell 17 that support the waist, back, and head of the seated occupant. The bead portion (also referred to as a "side bead") 30C is arranged to extend along the left and right edge sides of the seatback shell 17. The bead portion (also referred to as a "connecting bead") 30D is arranged to extend along the lower edge side of the seatback shell 17. More specifically, the bead portion 30D is disposed so as to connect the left and right hollow cross-sectional portions 70, which will be described later.

[0056] The bead portions 30A, 30B, and 30D are provided so as to be concave on the front side 17a of the seat back shell 17 and convex on the back side 17b (see FIG. 6). A pair of side walls 41 of each of the bead portions 30A, 30B, and 30D are raised from the back side of the surface portion supporting the backpack 22 of the seat back shell 17. The concave surface 30a of the bead portions 30A, 30B, and 30D forms a hollow portion 40. Furthermore, the height of the convex strip of the bead portion 30D is higher than the height of the convex strip of the bead portion 30B (see FIG. 2). That is, the bead portion 30D protrudes farther toward the back side of the seat back shell 17 than the bead portion 30B. Therefore, the intersection of the bead portion 30B and the bead portion 30D forms a step portion 43 (see FIG. 5).

[0057] The bead portion 30C is provided so as to form a concave streak on the back side 17b of the seatback shell 17 and a convex streak on the front side 17a. The bead portion 30C is located closer to the front side of the seatback shell 17 than the other bead portions 30A, 30B, and 30D. An inner side wall 41 of the bead portion 30C is continuous with a side edge of the seatback shell 17. An extension portion 44 is provided on the outer side wall 41 of the bead portion 30C, which extends to the back side at the lower part of the seatback shell 17.

[0058] Each of the bead portions 30A to 30D is integrally provided with a reinforcing band 50 (see FIG. 6), which includes continuous fibers (e.g., carbon fibers) 52 bound with a matrix resin (e.g., epoxy resin) 51 and laid along the extension direction of the bead portions 30A to 30D. As shown in FIG. 4, the reinforcing band 50 is disposed along the connecting walls 42 of the bead portions 30A, 30B, and 30D. Furthermore, the reinforcing band 50 is disposed along the extension portion 44 together with the outer side wall 41 and the connecting wall 42 of the bead portion 30C.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 6, the reinforcing band 50 includes a fiber bundle 53 formed by bundling continuous fibers 52, a base fabric (e.g., a woven fabric) 54 in which the fiber bundles 53 are arranged, and a matrix resin 51 impregnated and fixed in the fiber bundles 53 and the base fabric 54. The fiber bundles 53 are arranged in one layer on the base fabric 54 by sewing along the extension direction of the bead portions 30A to 30D. The fiber bundles 53 are arranged so as to form holes 63a, 64a (see FIG. 2) in the seat back shell 17 (portion including the reinforcing band 50). Furthermore, in the seat back shell 17, the thickness t1 of the reinforcing portion including the reinforcing band 50 is greater than the thickness t3 of the periphery 17s of the reinforcing portion not including the reinforcing band 50. Furthermore, in the bead portion 30, the thickness t1 of the reinforcing portion including the reinforcing band 50 is greater than the thickness t2 of the periphery of the reinforcing portion not including the reinforcing band 50. The holes 63a, 64a of the seat back shell 17 may be formed by post-processing such as cutting.

[0060] The fiber bundles 53 may be arranged in two or more layers by sewing onto the base fabric 54 (see FIG. 7). In this case, from the viewpoint of suppressing stress concentration, it is preferable that both sides of the reinforcing band 50 in the width direction have portions 56 in which the number of layers of the fiber bundles 53 is smaller than that of the intermediate side sandwiched between the both sides.

[0061] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the upper arms 18 are disposed on both the left and right sides in the lateral direction A at the bottom of the seat back shell 17. The upper arms 18 include a first surface portion 61 and a second surface portion 62 that intersect with each other. The first surface portion 61 is formed with a hole portion 63b through which a fastener 63 is inserted, and the second surface portion 62 is formed with a hole portion 64b through which a fastener 64 is inserted (see Fig. 2).

[0062] 4, the first surface portion 61 is fastened by fasteners (specifically, screws and nuts) 63 to an extension portion 61 extending from the outer side wall 41 of the bead portion 30C. The first surface portion 61 is provided with an engaged portion (specifically, a hole portion) 66 to which an engaging portion (specifically, a hook portion) 22a provided on the skin cover 22 covering the surface of the seat back shell 17 is hooked. The engaged portion 66 is disposed at a bent portion 67 formed by hemming on the outer edge side of the upper arm 18. The bent portion 67 is thicker than the portion of the first surface portion 61 connected thereto.

[0063] The second surface portion 62 is fastened to the connecting walls 42 of the bead portions 30B, 30D by fasteners (specifically, rivets) 64. More specifically, the second surface portion 62 is formed with a step portion 69 that is assigned to the intersection portion (i.e., the step portion 43) of the bead portions 30B, 30D, and the second surface portion 62 is fastened to the connecting walls 42 of the bead portions 30B, 30D on both sides spanning the step portion 69 (see FIG. 5).

[0064] Here, as shown in Fig. 3, the first surface portion 61 is fastened to the extension portion 44 of the bead portion 30C, and the second surface portion 62 is fastened to the bead portions 30B and 30D, so that a hollow cross-sectional portion (closed cross-sectional portion) 70 is formed between the left and right upper arms 18 and the seat back shell 17. This hollow cross-sectional portion 70 is formed by the upper arm 18 and the seat back shell 17 including the bead portions 30B, 30C, and 30D. In addition, the above-mentioned reclining motor (exemplified as the "functional component" according to the present invention) 25 is disposed in one of the hollow cross-sectional portions 70. This reclining motor 25 is attached to the upper arm 18.

[0065] According to the seatback frame 16 configured as described above, a hollow cross-sectional portion 70 is formed between the seatback shell 17 and the upper arm 18, and the reclining motor 25 is disposed in the hollow cross-sectional portion 70. This allows a reduction in thickness and weight without impairing strength and rigidity. Also, the reclining motor 25 can be mounted without interfering with other components disposed near the seatback frame 16. Furthermore, the heat and sound generated by the reclining motor 25 are blocked or reduced from the outside by the seatback shell 17 and the upper arm 18. Furthermore, the reclining motor 25 is protected from external impacts and the like by the seatback shell 17 and the upper arm 18.

[0066] In addition, in this embodiment, since the reclining motor 25 is attached to the upper arm 18, the reclining motor 25 can be first assembled to the upper arm 18, and the assembly can then be easily assembled to the seat back shell 17 (see FIG. 2).

[0067] In this embodiment, the seatback shell 17 has bead portions 30B and 30D, and the upper arm 18 is fastened to the bead portions 30B and 30D. As a result, the bead portions 30B and 30D reinforce the fastening portions between the seatback shell 17 and the upper arm 18, further improving the strength and rigidity. Particularly in this embodiment, the upper arm 18 has a step portion 69 that is assigned to the intersection (step portion 43) of the bead portions 30B, 30D whose protruding stripes are different in height, and is fastened to each of the bead portions 30B, 30D on both sides across the step portion 69. As a result, the step portion 69 further reinforces the fastening portion between the seat back shell 17 and the upper arm 18.

[0068] In this embodiment, the bead portions 30B, 30D are integrally provided with reinforcing bands 50 including continuous fibers 52 bonded with a matrix resin 51 and laid along the extension direction of the bead portions 30B, 30D. This allows the reinforcing bands 50 to more firmly reinforce the fastening portion between the seat back shell 17 and the upper arm 18.

[0069] In this embodiment, the upper arms 18 are disposed on both the left and right sides of the seatback shell 17 in the width direction A, and are fastened to the bead portions 30D that connect the hollow cross-sectional portions 70 formed on both the left and right sides of the seatback shell 17 in the width direction A. This provides stronger reinforcement between the fastening portions of the seatback shell 17 and the upper arms 18 by the bead portions 30D.

[0070] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the upper arm 18 is provided with a latched portion 66 to which the latch portion 22a provided on the skin cover 22 is latched. This makes it possible to form a latch structure for the skin cover 22 by utilizing the upper arm 18.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the seat back shell 18 is made of fiber reinforced resin, which allows for further weight reduction without sacrificing strength and rigidity.

[0072] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention according to the purpose and application. In other words, in the above embodiment, the reclining motor 25 is exemplified as a functional part, but the present invention is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a pump for operating a pneumatic mechanism for adjusting the holding ability according to the physique of the seated person.

[0073] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the upper arm 18 for rotatably connecting the seatback frame 16 to the seat cushion frame 5 has been exemplified as the metal part, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a side frame disposed on the outer side of the seatback shell 17 in the width direction A and to which a side airbag mechanism is attached. In this case, a side airbag, an inflator, and the like constituting the side airbag mechanism are disposed in a hollow cross-sectional portion 70 formed between the side frame and the seatback shell 17.

[0074] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the upper arm 18 is joined to the bead portions 30B, 30D, but this is not limited to this. For example, the upper arm 18 may be joined to a portion of the seat back shell 17 other than the bead portions 30A to 30D. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an upper arm 18 is illustrated as being joined to the bead portions 30B, 30D via a reinforcing band 50, but this is not limited to this, and for example, the upper arm 18 may be joined to the bead portions 30B, 30D without being provided with a reinforcing band 50.

[0075] The above examples are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, the words used in describing and illustrating the present invention are understood to be descriptive and exemplary, rather than limiting. As detailed herein, changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention in its form. Although the present invention has been described herein with reference to specific structures, materials and examples, it is not intended that the present invention be limited to the disclosures therein, but rather that the present invention extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses within the scope of the appended claims.

[0076] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the claims of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0077] The present invention is widely used as a technique for a structure formed by joining a metal part to a structural part, and is particularly suitable for use as a seat back frame for vehicle seats in passenger cars, buses, trucks, and other railroad cars such as steam trains and electric trains, construction vehicles, agricultural vehicles, industrial vehicles, and aircraft. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1; vehicle seat, 16; seatback frame (structural part), 17; seatback shell (structural part), 18; upper arm (metal part), 22; skin cover (other part), 22a; locking part 25; reclining motor (functional part), 30; bead part, 50; reinforcing band, 51; matrix resin, 52; continuous fiber, 53; fiber bundle, 54; base fabric, 66; locked part.

Claims

1. A structure comprising a structural part constituting a vehicle seat and a metal part joined to the structural part, The metal components are disposed on both the left and right sides of the structural portion in a width direction, A hollow cross-sectional portion is formed between the structural portion and each of the metal components, A functional component is disposed in at least one of the hollow cross-sectional portions, The structural portion includes a first bead portion having a concave rib on one surface side and a convex rib on an opposite surface side, The first bead portion extends in a width direction of the structural portion and connects the hollow cross-sectional portions formed on both the left and right sides of the structural portion in the width direction, A structure characterized in that each of the metal parts is joined to the first bead portion.

2. A structure including a structural part and a metal part joined to the structural part, A hollow cross-sectional portion is formed between the structural portion and the metal component, A functional component is disposed in the hollow cross-sectional portion, The structural portion includes a first bead portion and a second bead portion each having a concave rib on one surface side and a convex rib on an opposite surface side, the first bead portion and the second bead portion intersect with each other, the metal component is joined to each of the first bead portion and the second bead portion, The first bead portion and the second bead portion have different heights of convex stripes, The metal part has a step portion that is assigned to a stepped intersection between the first bead portion and the second bead portion, and is joined to each of the first bead portion and the second bead portion on both sides spanning the step portion.

3. 3. The structure according to claim 1, wherein a reinforcing band including continuous fibers bound with a matrix resin and laid along the extension direction of the bead portion is integrally provided with the bead portion.

4. The structure according to claim 1 , wherein the metal part has a step portion and is joined to the structural part on both sides spanning the step portion.

5. The structure according to claim 1 , wherein the metal part is provided with a latched part for latching a latching part provided on another part.

6. 6. The structure according to claim 1, wherein the structural portion is made of a fiber-reinforced resin containing dispersed non-continuous fibers and / or a fiber-reinforced resin containing a woven fabric using continuous fibers.

7. The structure according to claim 1 , wherein the structural portion is formed in a shell shape.

8. A vehicle seat comprising a seat back frame formed of the structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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