Cylindrical member and wire harness
The cylindrical member with adjustable bending rigidity and reinforcing portions addresses the mold remaking issue in conventional wire harnesses, enhancing productivity and path maintenance.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2022015443
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2022-02-03
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-08
- Estimated Expiration
- 2042-02-03
AI Technical Summary
Conventional wire harness outer members require remaking molds when the length or position of the straight pipe portion changes due to layout adjustments, leading to low productivity.
A resin-made cylindrical member with a bellows portion and rigid portions having increased bending rigidity, featuring a groove filled by a reinforcing portion that protrudes radially, allowing for adjustable bending direction and easier mold adaptation.
Enhances manufacturability by allowing for flexible mold adjustments and improved bending rigidity, maintaining the electric wire path effectively.
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cylindrical member and a wire harness.
Background Art
[0002] Conventionally, a wire harness used in a vehicle such as a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle includes an electric wire that electrically connects electrical devices such as a high-voltage battery and an inverter. In this wire harness, for the purpose of protecting the electric wire, the outer periphery of the electric wire is covered with a cylindrical outer member. As this type of outer member, a resin-made cylindrical member having a bellows portion with low bending rigidity and a straight pipe portion with high bending rigidity has been proposed (see, 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] However, in the conventional outer member, when the length or position of the straight pipe portion is changed due to a change in the layout of the wire harness or the like, it is necessary to remake the mold for manufacturing the outer member. For this reason, there is a problem that the productivity of the wire harness is low.
[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a cylindrical member and a wire harness that can improve productivity.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] The cylindrical member of the present disclosure is a resin-made cylindrical member through which an electric wire passes, and has a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first peak portion and a first valley portion are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, and a cylindrical rigid portion having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion. The rigid portion has a second peak portion and a second valley portion arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second peak portion and the second valley portion, and a reinforcing portion formed so as to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. The reinforcing portion protrudes outward in the radial direction of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second peak portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member.
[0007] The wire harness of the present disclosure has the cylindrical member and the electric wire passing through the cylindrical member.
Effect of the Invention
[0008] According to the cylindrical member and the wire harness of the present disclosure, there is an effect that the manufacturability can be improved.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0009]
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[0010] Description of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described. [1] The cylindrical member of the present disclosure is a resin cylindrical member through which an electric wire passes, and has a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first peak portion and a first valley portion are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, and a cylindrical rigid portion having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion. The rigid portion has a second peak portion and a second valley portion arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second peak portion and the second valley portion, and a reinforcing portion formed so as to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. The reinforcing portion protrudes outward in the radial direction of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second peak portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member.
[0011] According to this configuration, a reinforcing portion is provided in a part of the circumferential direction of the bellows to fill a groove portion formed by the second peak portion and the second valley portion. Since a part of the groove portion is filled by this reinforcing portion, the bending rigidity of the rigid portion can be increased compared to the case where the groove portion is not filled. For example, when a part of the groove portion is filled by the reinforcing portion, the amount that can expand and contract in the axial direction of the rigid portion becomes smaller compared to the case where the groove portion is not filled, so that the rigid portion is less likely to bend. As a result, the bending rigidity of the rigid portion becomes higher than the bending rigidity of the bellows. Therefore, when an electric wire is passed through the cylindrical member, the path of the electric wire can be suitably maintained by the rigid portion. Further, by adjusting the position of the reinforcing portion in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, the direction in which the bending rigidity is increased in the rigid portion can be adjusted. That is, by adjusting the position of the reinforcing portion in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, the direction in which it is difficult to bend in the rigid portion can be adjusted. Furthermore, the reinforcing portion can be formed, for example, by crushing a part of the first peak portion in the bellows. Therefore, for example, by changing the position where the first peak portion is crushed, the position of the reinforcing portion can be easily changed. For example, by changing the position of the reinforcing portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical member, the position of the rigid portion in the axial direction of the cylindrical member can be easily changed. For example, by changing the position of the reinforcing portion in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member, the direction in which the bending rigidity is increased in the rigid portion can be easily changed. As a result, it is possible to easily respond to a specification change of the wire harness, and the manufacturability of the wire harness can be improved.
[0012] Here, "cylindrical" in this specification refers to a structure in which a circumferential wall is formed over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. "Cylindrical" in this specification includes a cylindrical shape with a circular outer edge shape, a cylindrical shape with an elliptical or oval outer edge shape, a square tube shape with a polygonal outer edge shape, and a cylindrical shape with a rounded polygonal outer edge shape, and refers to a structure having an arbitrary closed shape connected by a straight line or a curve as the outer edge shape. Further, "cylindrical" in this specification only needs to be regarded as cylindrical as a whole, and also includes a structure in which irregularities or the like are formed in a part of the outer circumference or a part of the inner circumference.
[0013] [2] It is preferable that the outer shape of the second mountain portion is formed smaller than the outer shape of the first mountain portion, and the outer shape of the second valley portion is formed smaller than the outer shape of the first valley portion. According to this configuration, a reinforcing portion that protrudes radially outward of the cylindrical member is formed at a part in the circumferential direction of the second valley portion whose outer shape is smaller than that of the first valley portion. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the outer shape of the rigid portion compared to the case where the reinforcing portion is formed at a part in the circumferential direction of the first valley portion.
[0014] [3] The reinforcing portion is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, and it is preferable that the reinforcing portion protrudes radially outward of the cylindrical member more than the outer peripheral surface of the first mountain portion.
[0015] According to this configuration, the reinforcing portion is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. Therefore, at a part in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, the reinforcing portion protrudes from the bottom of the second valley portion in a rib shape. With this reinforcing portion, the bending rigidity of the rigid portion can be suitably increased.
[0016] [4] It is preferable that the inner peripheral surface of the bottom of the second valley portion is provided radially inward of the cylindrical member more than the inner peripheral surface of the bottom of the first valley portion. According to this configuration, the internal space in the second valley portion is formed smaller than the internal space in the first valley portion. Therefore, in the rigid portion, a portion where the internal space of the cylindrical member is narrower than the bellows portion is formed. Accordingly, when an electric wire is passed through the inside of the cylindrical member, it is possible to suitably suppress the wire from fluttering in the internal space of the rigid portion.
[0017] [5] The rigid portion preferably has a plurality of the reinforcing portions, and the plurality of the reinforcing portions are provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. According to this configuration, a plurality of directions in which the bending rigidity is increased in the rigid portion can be set by the plurality of reinforcing portions provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. That is, the plurality of reinforcing portions provided at an arbitrary position in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion can make the rigid portion difficult to bend in a plurality of directions.
[0018] [6] Preferably, the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. According to this configuration, the plurality of reinforcing portions provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion can make it difficult to bend the rigid portion in a plurality of directions.
[0019] [7] Preferably, the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided at 180-degree intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. According to this configuration, the two reinforcing portions provided at 180-degree intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion can make it difficult to bend the rigid portion in two directions.
[0020] [8] Preferably, the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided at 90-degree intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. According to this configuration, the four reinforcing portions provided at 90-degree intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion can make it difficult to bend the rigid portion in four directions.
[0021] [9] Preferably, the cylindrical member has a plurality of the rigid portions, and the plurality of rigid portions are provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. According to this configuration, a plurality of rigid portions having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows are provided. With these plurality of rigid portions, the shape of the cylindrical member can be suitably maintained. Further, when an electric wire penetrates inside the cylindrical member, the path of the electric wire can be suitably maintained by the plurality of rigid portions.
[0022]
[10] The plurality of rigid portions have a first rigid portion and a second rigid portion, the reinforcing portion of the first rigid portion is provided at a first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member, and the reinforcing portion of the second rigid portion is preferably provided at a second position different from the first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member.
[0023] According to this configuration, in the first rigid portion and the second rigid portion, the reinforcing portions are provided at different positions in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member. Therefore, the direction in which the bending rigidity is increased in the first rigid portion and the direction in which the bending rigidity is increased in the second rigid portion can be set to different directions from each other.
[0024]
[11] The plurality of rigid portions include a first rigid portion and a third rigid portion that are provided apart from each other in the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The reinforcing portion of the first rigid portion is preferably provided at a first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member, and the reinforcing portion of the third rigid portion is preferably provided at the first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member.
[0025] According to this configuration, in the first rigid portion and the third rigid portion, the reinforcing portions are provided at the same position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member. Therefore, the direction in which the bending rigidity is increased in the first rigid portion and the direction in which the bending rigidity is increased in the third rigid portion can be set to the same direction.
[0026]
[12] The wire harness of the present disclosure includes the cylindrical member and the electric wire passing through the cylindrical member. According to this configuration, the same operational effects as those of the above-described cylindrical member can be achieved.
[0027] [Details of Embodiments of the Present Disclosure] Specific examples of the cylindrical member and the wire harness of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, for convenience of explanation, a part of the configuration may be shown in an exaggerated or simplified manner. Also, the dimensional ratios of the respective parts may differ in each drawing. The terms "orthogonal", "parallel", and "overall length" in this specification include not only the cases of strict orthogonality, parallelism, and overall length, but also the cases that are generally orthogonal, parallel, and overall length within the scope where the effects of the present embodiment are achieved. In some of the drawings, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other are illustrated. In the following description, for convenience, the direction extending along the X-axis is referred to as the X-axis direction, the direction extending along the Y-axis is referred to as the Y-axis direction, and the direction extending along the Z-axis is referred to as the Z-axis direction. Note that the present invention is not limited to these examples, and is shown by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.
[0028] The wire harness 10 shown in FIG. 1 is mounted on a vehicle V such as a hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle, for example. The wire harness 10 electrically connects two or more in-vehicle devices. The in-vehicle devices are electrical devices mounted on the vehicle V. The wire harness 10 electrically connects, for example, an inverter 11 installed at the front part of the vehicle V and a high-voltage battery 12 installed rearward of the inverter 11 in the vehicle V. The wire harness 10 is formed in a long shape so as to extend, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle V. The wire harness 10 is routed in the vehicle V such that, for example, an intermediate portion in the length direction of the wire harness 10 passes through the outside of the vehicle such as under the floor of the vehicle V.
[0029] The inverter 11 is connected to, for example, a motor (not shown) for driving wheels that serves as a power source for vehicle travel. The inverter 11 generates AC power from the DC power of the high-voltage battery 12 and supplies the AC power to the motor. The high-voltage battery 12 is a battery that can supply a voltage of, for example, several hundred volts.
[0030] The wire harness 10 has wire members 20. The wire harness 10 has, for example, a pair of connectors C1 and C2 attached to both ends of the wire member 20, and a resin cylindrical member 30 surrounding the outer periphery of the wire member 20. One end in the length direction of the wire member 20 is connected to the inverter 11 via the connector C1, and the other end in the length direction of the wire member 20 is connected to the high-voltage battery 12 via the connector C2.
[0031] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the cylindrical member 30 has an overall long cylindrical shape. The wire member 20 is accommodated in the internal space of the cylindrical member 30. As shown in FIG. 2, the cylindrical member 30 accommodates, for example, an intermediate portion in the length direction of the wire member 20 inside. In other words, the wire member 20 penetrates through the inside of the cylindrical member 30.
[0032] (Configuration of the wire member 20) As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the wire member 20 has, for example, one or a plurality of electric wires 21. The wire member 20 of the present embodiment has two electric wires 21. The wire member 20 has, for example, a braided member 25 that collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of the plurality of electric wires 21.
[0033] Each electric wire 21 is a covered electric wire having a conductive core wire 22 and an insulating coating 23 surrounding the outer periphery of the core wire 22 and having insulating properties. Each electric wire 21 is, for example, a high-voltage electric wire capable of handling high voltage and large current. Each electric wire 21 may be, for example, a non-shielded electric wire having no electromagnetic shielding structure by itself, or a shielded electric wire having an electromagnetic shielding structure by itself. Each electric wire 21 of the present embodiment is a non-shielded electric wire.
[0034] As the core wire 22, for example, a stranded wire formed by twisting a plurality of metal strands or a single-core wire made of a single conductor can be used. As the single-core wire, for example, a columnar conductor composed of a single columnar metal bar having a solid structure inside or a tubular conductor having a hollow structure inside can be used. As the core wire 22, a combination of a stranded wire, a columnar conductor, and a tubular conductor may be used. As the material of the core wire 22, for example, a metal material such as a copper-based or aluminum-based material can be used.
[0035] The insulating coating 23 covers, for example, the outer peripheral surface of the core wire 22 over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction. The insulating coating 23 is composed of, for example, a resin material having insulating properties. The cross-sectional shape obtained by cutting the electric wire 21 by a plane orthogonal to the length direction of each electric wire 21, that is, the cross-sectional shape of each electric wire 21, can be formed into an arbitrary shape. The cross-sectional shape of each electric wire 21 is formed into, for example, a circular shape, a semi-circular shape, a polygonal shape, a square shape, a flat shape, or the like. The cross-sectional shape of each electric wire 21 in the present embodiment is formed into a circular shape.
[0036] The two electric wires 21 are arranged side by side, for example, along the Y-axis direction. For example, the two electric wires 21 are arranged side by side along the Y-axis direction over the entire length of the tubular member 30 in the internal space of the tubular member 30.
[0037] The braided member 25 has, for example, a tubular shape that collectively surrounds the outer peripheries of a plurality of electric wires 21 as a whole. As the braided member 25, for example, a braided wire in which a plurality of metal strands are braided or a braided wire in which a metal strand and a resin strand are combined and braided can be used. As the material of the metal strand, for example, a metal material such as a copper-based or aluminum-based material can be used. Although not shown, both ends in the length direction of the braided member 25 are grounded, for example, at connectors C1, C2 (see FIG. 1). Such a braided member 25 functions as an electromagnetic shielding member.
[0038] (Configuration of the tubular member 30) The cylindrical member 30 is cylindrical and surrounds the outer circumferences of the plurality of electric wires 21 over the entire circumferential direction. The cylindrical member 30 is cylindrical and surrounds the outer circumference of the braided member 25 over the entire circumferential direction. The cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment is formed in a cylindrical shape. The inner diameter of the cylindrical member 30 is formed to be large enough to accommodate the plurality of electric wires 21 and the braided member 25. The cylindrical member 30 is, for example, sealed over the entire circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. The cylindrical member 30 has a function of protecting the electric wires 21 and the braided member 25 accommodated therein from flying objects and water droplets, for example.
[0039] As the cylindrical member 30, for example, a resin corrugated tube can be used. As the material of the cylindrical member 30, for example, synthetic resins such as polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, and ABS resin can be used.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the cylindrical member 30 is bent two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally, for example, in a state of being mounted on the vehicle V. The cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment has a straight portion 31A that extends linearly along the X-axis direction, a bent portion 32A provided at one end of the straight portion 31A, and a straight portion 31B that extends downward along the Z-axis direction from the bent portion 32A. The cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment has a bent portion 32B provided at one end of the straight portion 31B, a straight portion 31C that extends rearward along the X-axis direction from the bent portion 32B, and a bent portion 32C provided at one end of the straight portion 31C. The cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment has a straight portion 31D that extends upward along the Z-axis direction from the bent portion 32C, a bent portion 32D provided at one end of the straight portion 31D, and a straight portion 31E that extends rearward along the X-axis direction from the bent portion 32D.
[0041] The cylindrical member 30 has one or a plurality of bellows portions 40 and one or a plurality of rigid portions 50. The cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment has four bellows portions 40 and three rigid portions 50. Each bellows portion 40 and each rigid portion 50 are each formed in a cylindrical shape. Each bellows portion 40 of the present embodiment is formed in a cylindrical shape. Each rigid portion 50 of the present embodiment is formed in a cylindrical shape as a whole.
[0042] The three rigid portions 50 include a rigid portion 50A, a rigid portion 50B, and a rigid portion 50C. In the following description, when the rigid portions 50A, 50B, and 50C are generically referred to, they are called "rigid portion 50". The rigid portion 50A is provided, for example, on a part of the straight portion 31B. The rigid portion 50B is provided, for example, on a part of the straight portion 31C. The rigid portion 50C is provided, for example, on the bent portion 32D. Each of the rigid portions 50A, 50B, and 50C is provided at a position displaced from the bellows portion 40 in the axial direction in which the central axis of the cylindrical member 30 extends. Each of the rigid portions 50A, 50B, and 50C is provided so as to be sandwiched between two bellows portions 40 in the axial direction (length direction) of the cylindrical member 30.
[0043] The cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment has a structure in which four bellows portions 40 and three rigid portions 50 are continuously formed integrally. For example, the four bellows portions 40 and the three rigid portions 50 are continuously formed integrally without a joint. That is, the cylindrical member 30 of the present embodiment is an integrally molded product made of the same material as a whole including the four bellows portions 40 and the three rigid portions 50.
[0044] (Configuration of the bellows portion 40) As shown in Fig. 5, each bellows portion 40 has a bellows structure in which first peak portions 41 and first valley portions 42 are arranged along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. Each bellows portion 40 has, for example, a plurality of first peak portions 41 and a plurality of first valley portions 42. Each bellows portion 40 is formed, for example, in a bellows structure in which a plurality of first peak portions 41 and a plurality of first valley portions 42 are alternately connected along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. Each of the first peak portions 41 and the first valley portions 42 forms, for example, an annular structure that makes one round along the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. Each of the first peak portions 41 and the first valley portions 42 of the present embodiment is formed in an annular structure. Each of the first peak portions 41 and the first valley portions 42 is formed such that the peripheral wall extends continuously without a seam over the entire circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. Each first peak portion 41 and each first valley portion 42 are formed independently of each other. Each of the plurality of first peak portions 41 is formed independently of each other. That is, each first peak portion 41 is formed individually without being connected to other first peak portions 41. Each of the plurality of first valley portions 42 is formed independently of each other. That is, each first valley portion 42 is formed individually without being connected to other first valley portions 42.
[0045] Here, the "ring" in this specification means a structure in which the whole is connected and forms a seamless ring, that is, an endless structure in which the starting point and the ending point coincide. Further, the "ring" in this specification includes an annular ring whose outer edge shape is circular, a ring whose outer edge shape is elliptical or oval, a ring whose outer edge shape is polygonal, and a ring whose outer edge shape is rounded polygonal, and refers to a structure composed of any closed shape whose outer edge is connected by a straight line or a curve. Further, the "annular" in this specification only needs to be regarded as a ring as a whole, and includes those in which irregularities or the like are formed in a part of the outer circumference or a part of the inner circumference.
[0046] As shown in Fig. 6, the outer diameter of each first peak portion 41 is larger than the outer diameter of each first valley portion 42. The inner diameter of each first peak portion 41 is larger than the inner diameter of each first valley portion 42. The bellows portion 40 is formed, for example, with a constant thickness (wall thickness) over the entire length of the bellows portion 40. For example, the thickness (wall thickness) of the first peak portion 41 and the thickness (wall thickness) of the first valley portion 42 are equal to each other.
[0047] The belly 40 of the snake has, for example, a protruding portion 43 provided between the top of the first mountain portion 41 and the bottom of the first valley portion 42. The protruding portion 43 is formed so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30, for example, from the bottom of the first valley portion 42 toward the top of the first mountain portion 41. The protruding portion 43 extends along the radial direction of the cylindrical member 30, for example.
[0048] (Configuration of the rigid portion 50) The rigid portion 50 is formed to have a higher bending rigidity than the belly 40. The rigid portion 50 is, for example, more difficult to bend than the belly 40. The rigid portion 50 is formed to have a higher bending rigidity than the electric wire 21, for example. The rigid portion 50 is, for example, more difficult to bend than the electric wire 21. The rigid portion 50 has, for example, a rigidity capable of maintaining the path of the electric wire 21. The rigid portion 50 has, for example, a rigidity such that in a state where it is mounted on the vehicle V, the straight state or the bent state is not released due to vibrations, the own weight, etc. of the vehicle V. For this reason, the rigid portion 50 can maintain the path of the electric wire 21 in a desired path, for example.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, each rigid portion 50 has a second mountain portion 51 and a second valley portion 52 arranged along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30, and a groove portion 60 formed by the second mountain portion 51 and the second valley portion 52. Each rigid portion 50 has one or a plurality of reinforcing portions 70 formed so as to fill the groove portion 60 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each rigid portion 50 of the present embodiment has two reinforcing portions 70. Each rigid portion 50 is formed, for example, by performing processing on a part of the axial direction of the belly 40. Each rigid portion 50 is formed, for example, by crushing a part of the first mountain portion 41, so that the second mountain portion 51, the second valley portion 52, and the reinforcing portion 70 are formed.
[0050] Each of the plurality of second mountain portions 51 is formed in an annular shape as a whole. Each of the plurality of second mountain portions 51 is formed in an annular shape as a whole together with a reinforcing portion 70 formed in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each second mountain portion 51 of the present embodiment is formed in an annular shape as a whole together with the reinforcing portion 70. Here, the reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to connect two second mountain portions 51 adjacent in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. For this reason, the plurality of second mountain portions 51 are formed so as to be connected to each other via the reinforcing portion 70. Each of the plurality of second valley portions 52 is formed in an annular shape as a whole. Each of the plurality of second valley portions 52 is formed in an annular shape as a whole together with a reinforcing portion 70 formed in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each second valley portion 52 of the present embodiment is formed in an annular shape as a whole together with the reinforcing portion 70. Here, the reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to connect two second valley portions 52 adjacent in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. For this reason, the plurality of second valley portions 52 are formed so as to be connected to each other via the reinforcing portion 70.
[0051] (Configuration of the second mountain portion 51 and the second valley portion 52) As shown in FIG. 7, each second mountain portion 51 protrudes, for example, radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the bottom of the second valley portion 52. Each second valley portion 52 is recessed, for example, radially inward of the cylindrical member 30 from the top of the second mountain portion 51. The outer shape of each second mountain portion 51 is larger than the outer shape of each second valley portion 52. The inner peripheral surface of the bottom of each second valley portion 52 is provided radially inward of the inner peripheral surface of the top of each second mountain portion 51. The thickness (wall thickness) of the second mountain portion 51 is, for example, equal to the thickness (wall thickness) of the second valley portion 52. In the rigid portion 50, for example, the thickness of the second mountain portion 51 and the thickness of the second valley portion 52 are formed to be constant over the entire length of the rigid portion 50. The thickness of the second mountain portion 51 is, for example, equal to the thickness of the first mountain portion 41 and the thickness of the first valley portion 42. The thickness of the second valley portion 52 is, for example, equal to the thickness of the first mountain portion 41 and the thickness of the first valley portion 42.
[0052] The cross-sectional shape of the top of each second mountain portion 51 and the cross-sectional shape of the bottom of each second valley portion 52 can be arbitrary shapes. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the top of each second mountain portion 51 and the cross-sectional shape of the bottom of each second valley portion 52 may each be a shape that tapers to a needle point, or may be a curved surface that curves in an arc shape. The top of each second mountain portion 51 of the present embodiment has a mountain-side flat surface portion 51A. The bottom of each second valley portion 52 of the present embodiment has a valley-side flat surface portion 52A. The mountain-side flat surface portion 51A and the valley-side flat surface portion 52A are formed, for example, so as to extend planar in the axial direction and the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. The mountain-side flat surface portion 51A and the valley-side flat surface portion 52A are formed, for example, so as to extend parallel to the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. The mountain-side flat surface portion 51A and the valley-side flat surface portion 52A are formed, for example, so as to extend parallel to the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. The valley-side flat surface portion 52A is formed, for example, so as to extend parallel to the mountain-side flat surface portion 51A.
[0053] (Configuration of the second mountain portion 51) As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the outer shape of each second peak portion 51 is, for example, smaller than the outer shape of each first peak portion 41. For example, the outer diameter of each second peak portion 51 excluding the reinforcing portion 70 is smaller than the outer diameter of each first peak portion 41. As shown in FIG. 6, the outer peripheral surface of the top of each second peak portion 51, that is, the outer peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A, is provided, for example, radially inward of the outer peripheral surface of the top of each first peak portion 41 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. The outer peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A is provided, for example, radially inward of the inner peripheral surface of the top of each first peak portion 41 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. The outer peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A is provided, for example, radially outward of the outer peripheral surface of the bottom of each first valley portion 42 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. For example, the inner diameter of each second peak portion 51 excluding the reinforcing portion 70 is smaller than the inner diameter of each first peak portion 41. The inner peripheral surface of the top of each second peak portion 51, that is, the inner peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A, is provided, for example, radially inward of the inner peripheral surface of the top of each first peak portion 41 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. The inner peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A is provided, for example, radially inward of the outer peripheral surface of the bottom of each first valley portion 42 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. The inner peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A is provided, for example, radially outward of the inner peripheral surface of the bottom of each first valley portion 42 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. That is, each second peak portion 51 is formed such that the internal space of the cylindrical member 30 is smaller than that of each first peak portion 41.
[0054] (Configuration of the second valley portion 52) The outer shape of each second valley portion 52 is, for example, smaller than the outer shape of each first valley portion 42. For example, the outer diameter of each second valley portion 52 excluding the reinforcing portion 70 is smaller than the outer diameter of each first valley portion 42. The outer peripheral surface of the bottom of each second valley portion 52, that is, the outer peripheral surface of the valley-side flat portion 52A, is provided, for example, radially inward of the outer peripheral surface of the bottom of each first valley portion 42 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. The outer peripheral surface of the valley-side flat portion 52A is provided, for example, radially inward of the inner peripheral surface of the bottom of each first valley portion 42 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. For example, the inner diameter of each second valley portion 52 excluding the reinforcing portion 70 is smaller than the inner diameter of each first valley portion 42. The inner peripheral surface of the bottom of each second valley portion 52, that is, the inner peripheral surface of the valley-side flat portion 52A, is provided, for example, radially inward of the inner peripheral surface of the bottom of each first valley portion 42 with respect to the cylindrical member 30. That is, each second valley portion 52 is formed such that the internal space of the cylindrical member 30 is smaller than that of each first valley portion 42.
[0055] The rigid portion 50 has, for example, a protruding portion 53 provided between each peak-side flat portion 51A and each valley-side flat portion 52A. The protruding portion 53 is formed, for example, so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the valley-side flat portion 52A toward the peak-side flat portion 51A. The protruding portion 53 extends, for example, along the radial direction of the cylindrical member 30. The protruding portion 53 is formed, for example, so as to spread on a plane intersecting the valley-side flat portion 52A and the peak-side flat portion 51A. The length extending in the radial direction of the protruding portion 53 is, for example, equal to the length extending in the radial direction of the protruding portion 43, or shorter than the length extending in the radial direction of the protruding portion 43.
[0056] (Configuration of the groove portion 60) The groove portion 60 has, for example, a first groove portion 61 provided on the outer peripheral side of the cylindrical member 30 and a second groove portion 62 provided on the inner peripheral side of the cylindrical member 30. The rigid portion 50 has, for example, a plurality of first groove portions 61 and a plurality of second groove portions 62.
[0057] Each first groove portion 61 is formed between a second peak portion 51 and a second valley portion 52 on the outer peripheral side of the cylindrical member 30. Each first groove portion 61 is provided between two second peak portions 51 adjacent in the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. Each first groove portion 61 is formed, for example, by the outer peripheral surface of the valley-side flat portion 52A and the outer surfaces of two protruding portions 53 extending from both ends of the valley-side flat portion 52A, respectively. Each first groove portion 61 extends, for example, along the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 on the outer periphery of the rigid portion 50. The plurality of first groove portions 61 are provided at intervals along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. The plurality of first groove portions 61 are formed independently of each other.
[0058] Each second groove portion 62 is formed between a second peak portion 51 and a second valley portion 52 on the inner peripheral side of the cylindrical member 30. Each second groove portion 62 is provided between two second valley portions 52 adjacent in the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. Each second groove portion 62 is formed, for example, by the inner peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A and the inner surfaces of two protruding portions 53 extending from both ends of the peak-side flat portion 51A respectively. Each second groove portion 62 extends, for example, along the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 inside the rigid portion 50. The plurality of second groove portions 62 are provided at intervals along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. The plurality of second groove portions 62 are formed independently of each other.
[0059] (Configuration of the reinforcing portion 70) As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, each reinforcing portion 70 is provided only in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to fill the first groove portion 61 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to divide the first groove portion 61 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. For this reason, the first groove portion 61 extending along the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 is divided by the reinforcing portion 70. As shown in FIG. 6, each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to fill the first groove portion 61 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed continuously and integrally with, for example, the outer peripheral surface of the valley-side flat portion 52A. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed continuously and integrally with, for example, the outer peripheral surface of the peak-side flat portion 51A. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed continuously and integrally with, for example, the outer surface of the protruding portion 53. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the outer peripheral surface of the valley-side flat portion 52A. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the outer peripheral surface of the second peak portion 51. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the outer peripheral surface of the first peak portion 41.
[0060] In FIG. 6, the second peak portion 51 and the second valley portion 52 are shown by a two-dot chain line for easy understanding. However, in reality, the interface between the reinforcing portion 70 and the second peak portion 51 and the second valley portion 52 may disappear, and the boundary may not be clear.
[0061] Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to fill the second groove portion 62 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to fill the second groove portion 62 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, so as to divide the second groove portion 62 in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Therefore, the second groove portion 62 extending along the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 is divided by the reinforcing portion 70. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, continuously and integrally with the inner peripheral surface of the peak-side flat surface portion 51A. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, continuously and integrally with the inner surface of the protruding portion 53. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, continuously and integrally with the valley-side flat surface portion 52A. The inner peripheral surface of each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, on the same plane as the inner peripheral surface of the valley-side flat surface portion 52A in the radial direction of the rigid portion 50. The inner peripheral surface of each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, flush with the inner peripheral surface of the valley-side flat surface portion 52A.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 5, each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, in a plate shape. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed, for example, in a plate shape that protrudes radially outward from the inner peripheral surface of the valley side flat portion 52A of the cylindrical member 30. Each reinforcing portion 70 has a predetermined thickness in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, for example. Each reinforcing portion 70 extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30, for example. Each reinforcing portion 70 extends linearly along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50, for example. Each reinforcing portion 70 extends over the entire axial length of the rigid portion 50, for example. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed to connect a plurality of second peak portions 51 arranged along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. In other words, in the portion of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 where the reinforcing portion 70 is formed, a plurality of second peak portions 51 are integrally formed via the reinforcing portion 70. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed to connect a plurality of second valley portions 52 arranged along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. In other words, in the portion of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 where the reinforcing portion 70 is formed, a plurality of second valley portions 52 are integrally formed via the reinforcing portion 70. Each reinforcing portion 70 is formed to fill a plurality of first groove portions 61 arranged along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. As shown in FIG. 6, each reinforcing portion 70 is formed to fill a plurality of second groove portions 62 arranged along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. Thus, in the portion of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 where the reinforcing portion 70 is formed, since the reinforcing portion 70, the plurality of second peak portions 51, and the plurality of second valley portions 52 are continuously and integrally formed, the plurality of first groove portions 61 and the plurality of second groove portions 62 have disappeared.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 5, each reinforcing portion 70 has a protruding tip surface 71. The protruding tip surface 71 is, for example, the end surface located most radially outward among each reinforcing portion 70. The protruding tip surface 71 extends along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. The protruding tip surface 71 extends in a band shape along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50, for example. The protruding tip surface 71 of the present embodiment is formed in a plane. That is, the protruding tip surface 71 of the present embodiment has no unevenness.
[0064] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the plurality of reinforcing portions 70 are provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The plurality of reinforcing portions 70 are provided, for example, at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The plurality of reinforcing portions 70 are provided, for example, at intervals of 180 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. That is, the two reinforcing portions 70 of the present embodiment are provided at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The two reinforcing portions 70 of the present embodiment are provided at positions separated by π [rad] from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The two reinforcing portions 70 of the present embodiment project in a direction away from each other from the inner circumferential surface of the second valley portion 52.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 2, in the rigid portion 50A and the rigid portion 50B, the formation positions of the reinforcing portions 70 in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30 are set at different positions from each other. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in the rigid portion 50A provided on the straight portion 31B of the cylindrical member 30, the reinforcing portion 70 is provided at the first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, in the rigid portion 50A, the two reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Y-axis direction. That is, in the rigid portion 50A of the present embodiment, the two reinforcing portions 70 are arranged along the Y-axis direction which is the arrangement direction of the electric wires 21. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, in the rigid portion 50B provided on the straight portion 31C of the cylindrical member 30, the reinforcing portion 70 is provided at the second position different from the first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, in the rigid portion 50B, the two reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Z-axis direction. That is, in the rigid portion 50B of the present embodiment, the two reinforcing portions 70 are arranged along the Z-axis direction orthogonal to the direction in which the electric wires 21 are arranged. In this way, in the rigid portion 50A and the rigid portion 50B, the formation positions of the reinforcing portions 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 are provided at positions shifted by 90 degrees from each other.
[0066] As shown in FIG. 2, in the rigid portions 50A and 50C, the formation positions of the reinforcing portions 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 are set at the same positions. That is, in the rigid portion 50C provided at the bent portion 32D of the cylindrical member 30, similar to the rigid portion 50A, two reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Y-axis direction.
[0067] (Function of the cylindrical member 30) Next, the function of the cylindrical member 30 will be described. A reinforcing portion 70 that fills a groove portion 60 formed by a second peak portion 51 and a second valley portion 52 is provided in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Since the groove portion 60 is filled by this reinforcing portion 70, the bending rigidity of the rigid portion 50 can be increased as compared with the case where the groove portion 60 is not filled. For example, when the groove portion 60 is filled by the reinforcing portion 70, the amount that can expand and contract in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50 becomes smaller than when the groove portion 60 is not filled, so that the rigid portion 50 is less likely to bend. Here, by adjusting the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, the direction in which the bending rigidity of the rigid portion 50 can be increased can be adjusted. That is, by adjusting the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, the direction in which the rigid portion 50 can be made difficult to bend can be adjusted.
[0068] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in the rigid portion 50A, two reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Y-axis direction. In this rigid portion 50A, the direction in which it is difficult to bend in the rigid portion 50A is set to the Y-axis direction, specifically, two directions along the Y-axis. That is, in the rigid portion 50A, it is possible to preferably suppress the bending of the central axis of the rigid portion 50A extending along the Z-axis direction so as to bend in the Y-axis direction. More specifically, when the rigid portion 50A is bent so that the central axis of the rigid portion 50A bends in the Y-axis direction, the reinforcing portions 70 are arranged on the inner side and the outer side of the bend of the bent portion, respectively. At this time, in the reinforcing portion 70, the amount that can expand and contract in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50 is small. For this reason, it is possible to suppress the bending of the rigid portion 50A so that the central axis of the rigid portion 50A bends in the Y-axis direction. In addition, when the rigid portion 50A is bent so that the central axis of the rigid portion 50A bends in the X-axis direction, the reinforcing portion 70 hardly affects the expansion and contraction in the second peak portion 51 and the second valley portion 52. For this reason, in the rigid portion 50A, even when the reinforcing portion 70 is provided, it is possible to preferably bend the rigid portion 50A so that the central axis of the rigid portion 50A bends in the X-axis direction.
[0069] For example, as shown in FIG. 4, in the rigid portion 50B, two reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Z-axis direction. In this rigid portion 50B, the direction in which it is difficult to bend in the rigid portion 50B is set to the Z-axis direction, specifically, two directions along the Z-axis. That is, in the rigid portion 50B, it is possible to preferably suppress the bending of the central axis of the rigid portion 50B extending along the X-axis direction so as to bend in the Z-axis direction. In addition, in the rigid portion 50B, even when the reinforcing portion 70 is provided, it is possible to preferably bend the rigid portion 50B so that the central axis of the rigid portion 50B bends in the Y-axis direction.
[0070] (Manufacturing method of wire harness 10) Next, the manufacturing method of the wire harness 10 will be described. Here, the manufacturing method of the cylindrical member 30 will be described in detail.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 8, first, a known corrugated tube 80 made of resin is prepared. The corrugated tube 80 has a bellows portion 40 formed over the entire axial length of the corrugated tube 80. The bellows portion 40 is provided with a plurality of first peak portions 41 and a plurality of first valley portions 42 arranged alternately along the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80.
[0072] Next, by processing a part of the corrugated tube 80 in the axial direction, the cylindrical member 30 shown in FIG. 2, that is, the cylindrical member 30 having a plurality of rigid portions 50, is formed. Specifically, a process of crushing the first peak portion 41 is performed on a part of the corrugated tube 80 in the axial direction. This process is carried out, for example, using two molds 90. The two molds 90 are provided, for example, so as to sandwich the corrugated tube 80 from above and below in the drawing at a part of the corrugated tube 80 in the axial direction. That is, the two molds 90 are arranged only at the first portion 81 where the rigid portion 50 (see FIG. 2) is to be formed in the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80, and the first portion 81 is sandwiched from above and below by the two molds 90. Each of the two molds 90 extends along the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80.
[0073] Here, as shown in FIG. 9, the two molds 90 have opposing surfaces 91 facing each other. Each of the two molds 90 has a receiving groove 92 formed in the opposing surface 91. The corrugated tube 80 is received inside the receiving groove 92. The cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of each receiving groove 92 in the present embodiment is formed in an arc shape. The two molds 90 are used in a state where a gap 93 is provided between the opposing surfaces 91. In a state where the gap 93 is provided in this way, a receiving space 94 is formed by the gap 93 and the two receiving grooves 92. The receiving space 94 is formed, for example, in a circular cross-sectional shape. The receiving space 94 is formed over the entire length of the mold 90 along the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80. Here, the inner diameter d1 of the receiving space 94 is set smaller than the outer diameter d2 of the first peak portion 41. The inner diameter d1 of the receiving space 94 is set larger than the inner diameter of the first valley portion 42, for example.
[0074] Subsequently, in the process shown in FIG. 10, while heating and softening the first portion 81 of the corrugated tube 80, the first portion 81 is sandwiched between two molds 90 and pressed from above and below in the drawing. By this process, a part of the first peak portion 41 in the first portion 81 is crushed by the mold 90, and the reinforcing portion 70 is formed by the crushed portion. In FIG. 10, the outer peripheral surface of the first peak portion 41 other than the first portion 81 and the inner peripheral surface of the first valley portion 42 other than the first portion 81 are shown by broken lines. For example, when the first portion 81 is surrounded by the two heated molds 90, the first portion 81 is heated and softened. Then, with the first portion 81 thus heated, the first portion 81 is pressed from above and below in the drawing by the two molds 90. At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the inner diameter d1 of the accommodation space 94 is smaller than the outer diameter d2 of the first peak portion 41. For this reason, when the first portion 81 is pressed by the two molds 90, the outer diameters of the first peak portion 41 and the first valley portion 42 in the first portion 81 are reduced in diameter. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10, in the first portion 81, a second peak portion 51 having an outer diameter smaller than that of the first peak portion 41 and a second valley portion 52 having an outer diameter smaller than that of the first valley portion 42 are formed. Further, when the first portion 81 is pressed by the two molds 90, simultaneously with the reduction in diameter of the first peak portion 41 and the first valley portion 42, the first peak portion 41 is crushed by the difference between the inner diameter d1 and the outer diameter d2 (see FIG. 9). The crushed first peak portion 41 spreads so as to fill the groove portion 60 formed by the second peak portion 51 and the second valley portion 52, and also spreads into the gap 93 between the two molds 90. Then, the first peak portion 41 that has spread into the groove portion 60 and the gap 93 is pressed and fixed by the pressure applied by the mold 90, whereby the reinforcing portion 70 is formed in a part of the circumferential direction of the first portion 81. This reinforcing portion 70 is formed at a position in the circumferential direction of the corrugated tube 80 where the gap 93 is provided. That is, in the present embodiment, two reinforcing portions 70 are formed in the circumferential direction of the corrugated tube 80. As a result, the first portion 81 heated and pressed by the mold 90 is formed into a rigid portion 50 having two reinforcing portions 70. Here, since this processing is performed by crushing and pressing a part of the circumferential direction of the first peak portion 41 of the first portion 81 by the mold 90, it is not necessary to insert a core member as a backing inside the corrugated tube 80 when performing this process.Therefore, compared with the processing method that requires the insertion of the core member, the workability when forming the rigid portion 50 can be improved.
[0075] By performing the above-described steps on the portion of the corrugated tube 80 in the axial direction where the formation of the rigid portion 50 is required, the rigid portion 50 can be formed at a desired position in the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80. At this time, by shifting the position of the mold 90 with respect to the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80, the position and length of the rigid portion 50 can be easily changed. Further, by adjusting the position of the gap 93 of the mold 90 with respect to the circumferential direction of the corrugated tube 80, the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 can be easily changed. For this reason, by performing processing using the mold 90 on one type of corrugated tube 80, a plurality of types of cylindrical members 30 having different positions, lengths of the rigid portion 50, and positions of the reinforcing portion 70 can be manufactured. That is, a plurality of types of cylindrical members 30 can be manufactured by one type of mold 90. Therefore, for example, even when the layout of the wire harness 10 is changed, it is not necessary to remake the mold for manufacturing the cylindrical member 30, and the layout change can be accommodated only by changing the position of the mold 90 with respect to the corrugated tube 80.
[0076] Next, the effects of the present embodiment will be described. (1) A reinforcing portion 70 that fills a groove portion 60 formed by a second peak portion 51 and a second valley portion 52 is provided in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. Since a part of the groove portion 60 is filled by this reinforcing portion 70, the bending rigidity of the rigid portion 50 can be increased as compared with the case where the groove portion 60 is not filled. For example, when the groove portion 60 is filled by the reinforcing portion 70, the amount that can be expanded and contracted in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50 becomes smaller than when the groove portion 60 is not filled, so that the rigid portion 50 is less likely to bend. Thereby, the rigid portion 50 is formed to have a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion 40. For this reason, when the electric wire 21 is passed through the cylindrical member 30, the path of the electric wire 21 can be suitably maintained by the rigid portion 50.
[0077] (2) Further, by adjusting the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, it is possible to adjust the direction in which the bending rigidity of the rigid portion 50 can be increased. That is, by adjusting the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, it is possible to adjust the direction in which it is difficult to bend the rigid portion 50. Here, the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50 is set, for example, according to the routing state of the wire harness 10 when mounted on the vehicle V. For example, when it is desired to suppress the rigid portion 50 from bending in the Y-axis direction in the wire harness 10 when mounted on the vehicle V, the reinforcing portion 70 is provided so as to be arranged along the Y-axis direction in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, for example.
[0078] (3) Furthermore, the reinforcing portion 70 can be formed, for example, by crushing a part of the first peak portion 41 in the bellows portion 40. Therefore, for example, by changing the position where the first peak portion 41 is crushed, the position of the reinforcing portion 70 can be easily changed. Accordingly, by changing the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30, the position of the rigid portion 50 in the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30 can be easily changed. Also, by changing the position of the reinforcing portion 70 in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30, the direction in which the bending rigidity of the rigid portion 50 can be increased can be easily changed. As a result, it is possible to easily respond to a change in the specifications of the wire harness 10, and the manufacturability of the wire harness 10 can be improved.
[0079] (4) The outer shape of the second peak portion 51 is formed to be smaller than the outer shape of the first peak portion 41, and the outer shape of the second valley portion 52 is formed to be smaller than the outer shape of the first valley portion 42. According to this configuration, a reinforcing portion 70 that protrudes radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 is formed in a part of the circumferential direction of the second valley portion 52 having a smaller outer shape than the first valley portion 42. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the outer shape of the rigid portion 50 compared to the case where the reinforcing portion 70 is formed in a part of the circumferential direction of the first valley portion 42.
[0080] (5) The reinforcing portion 70 is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. For this reason, in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, the reinforcing portion 70 protrudes in a rib shape from the second valley portion 52. By this reinforcing portion 70, the bending rigidity of the rigid portion 50 can be suitably increased.
[0081] (6) The inner peripheral surface of the second valley portion 52 is provided on the radially inner side of the cylindrical member 30 than the inner peripheral surface of the first valley portion 42. According to this configuration, the internal space in the second valley portion 52 is formed smaller than the internal space in the first valley portion 42. For this reason, in the rigid portion 50, a portion where the internal space of the cylindrical member 30 is narrower than that of the bellows portion 40 is formed. Therefore, it is possible to suitably suppress the wire 21 from fluttering in the internal space of the rigid portion 50.
[0082] (7) The rigid portion 50 has a plurality of reinforcing portions 70 provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. According to this configuration, by the plurality of reinforcing portions 70, it is possible to set the directions in which the bending rigidity is increased in the rigid portion 50 in a plurality of directions. That is, by the plurality of reinforcing portions 70, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50 in a plurality of directions.
[0083] (8) The plurality of reinforcing portions 70 are provided at intervals of 180 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. According to this configuration, by the two reinforcing portions 70 provided at intervals of 180 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50 in two directions. For example, in the rigid portion 50A of the present embodiment, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50A in the Y-axis direction, specifically, in two directions along the Y-axis.
[0084] (9) In the rigid portions 50A and 50B, the formation positions of the reinforcing portions 70 in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30 are set at different positions from each other. For this reason, the direction in which the bending rigidity can be increased in the rigid portion 50A and the direction in which the bending rigidity can be increased in the rigid portion 50B can be set to different directions from each other. For example, in the rigid portion 50A, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50A with respect to the Y-axis direction, specifically, two directions along the Y-axis, while in the rigid portion 50B, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50B with respect to the Z-axis direction, specifically, two directions along the Z-axis.
[0085] (10) In the rigid portions 50A and 50C, the formation positions of the reinforcing portions 70 in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 30 are set at the same position. For this reason, the direction in which the bending rigidity can be increased in the rigid portion 50A and the direction in which the bending rigidity can be increased in the rigid portion 50C can be set to the same direction.
[0086] (Other embodiments) The above embodiments can be implemented by making the following changes. The above embodiments and the following modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a range where there is no technical contradiction.
[0087] · In the above embodiment, two reinforcing portions 70 are provided for each rigid portion 50, but the number of reinforcing portions 70 provided for each rigid portion 50 is not particularly limited. For example, the number of reinforcing portions 70 provided for each rigid portion 50 may be one.
[0088] ·For example, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, three or more reinforcing portions 70 may be provided on the rigid portion 50. As shown in FIG. 12, the rigid portion 50 of this modification has four reinforcing portions 70. The four reinforcing portions 70 are provided at intervals of each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The four reinforcing portions 70 are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The four reinforcing portions 70 are provided at intervals of 90 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. That is, the four reinforcing portions 70 of this modification are provided at positions separated by π / 2 [rad] each in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. In this modification, two of the four reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Y-axis direction. By these two reinforcing portions 70, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50 with respect to the Y-axis direction, specifically, two directions along the Y-axis. Further, the remaining two of the four reinforcing portions 70 are provided so as to be arranged along the Z-axis direction. By these two reinforcing portions 70, it is possible to make it difficult to bend the rigid portion 50 with respect to the Z-axis direction, specifically, two directions along the Z-axis. Thus, in the rigid portion 50 of this modification, it is possible to suitably suppress the central axis of the rigid portion 50 extending along the X-axis direction from being bent so as to bend in the Y-axis direction or the Z-axis direction.
[0089] Next, a manufacturing method of the cylindrical member 30 of this modification will be described. As shown in FIG. 13, the process of forming the rigid portion 50 (see FIG. 12) by crushing the first peak portion 41 in a partial axial direction of the corrugated tube 80 is carried out using, for example, four molds 100. That is, instead of the mold 90 shown in FIG. 9, the mold 100 is used. Each mold 100 has an opposing surface 101 that faces another mold 100. Each mold 100 has two opposing surfaces 101. Each mold 100 has a receiving groove 102 formed in the two opposing surfaces 101. The corrugated tube 80 is received inside the receiving groove 102. The cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of each receiving groove 102 in this modification example is formed in an arc shape. The four molds 100 are used with a gap 103 provided between the opposing surfaces 101. That is, the four molds 100 are used with four gaps 103 provided. In a state where the four gaps 103 are provided in this way, a receiving space 104 is formed by the four gaps 103 and the four receiving grooves 102. The receiving space 104 is formed, for example, in a cross-sectional circular shape. The receiving space 104 is formed over the entire length of the mold 100 along the axial direction of the corrugated tube 80. Here, the inner diameter d3 of the receiving space 104 is set smaller than the outer diameter d2 of the first peak portion 41. The inner diameter d3 of the receiving space 104 is set larger than the inner diameter of the first valley portion 42, for example.
[0090] Next, in the process shown in FIG. 14, with the first portion 81 of the corrugated tube 80 heated and softened, the first portion 81 is sandwiched between four molds 100 and pressed inward in the radial direction of the corrugated tube 80. By this process, as in the process shown in FIG. 10, a part of the first peak portion 41 in the first portion 81 is crushed by the mold 100, and a reinforcing portion 70 is formed by the crushed portion. This reinforcing portion 70 is formed at a position in the circumferential direction of the corrugated tube 80 where the gap 103 is provided. That is, in this modification example, four reinforcing portions 70 are formed in the circumferential direction of the corrugated tube 80. Thereby, the first portion 81 heated and pressed by the mold 100 is formed into a rigid portion 50 having four reinforcing portions 70. In FIG. 14, the outer peripheral surface of the first peak portion 41 other than the first portion 81 and the inner peripheral surface of the first valley portion 42 other than the first portion 81 are shown by broken lines.
[0091] ·For example, as shown in FIG. 15, three reinforcing portions 70 may be provided in the rigid portion 50. The three reinforcing portions 70 are provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The three reinforcing portions 70 are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. The three reinforcing portions 70 are provided at intervals of 120 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50. That is, the three reinforcing portions 70 in this modification example are provided at positions separated by 2π / 3 [rad] each in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50.
[0092] ·For example, five or more reinforcing portions 70 may be provided in the rigid portion 50. ·A plurality of types of rigid portions 50 having different numbers of reinforcing portions 70 may be provided in one cylindrical member 30. For example, the number of reinforcing portions 70 of the rigid portion 50A shown in FIG. 2 may be set to two, the number of reinforcing portions 70 of the rigid portion 50B may be set to four, and the number of reinforcing portions 70 of the rigid portion 50C may be set to one.
[0093] ·In the above-described embodiment, the plurality of reinforcing portions 70 are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the plurality of reinforcing portions 70 may be provided at intervals along the circumferential direction of the rigid portion 50, and the intervals are not limited to equal angular intervals.
[0094] ·In the above-described embodiment, the plurality of rigid portions 50 are provided so as to be separated from each other in the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the plurality of rigid portions 50 may be provided adjacent to each other in the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30.
[0095] ·The number and positions of the rigid portions 50 provided on the cylindrical member 30 in the above-described embodiment can be appropriately changed. For example, the number of the rigid portions 50 provided on the cylindrical member 30 may be one or two, or four or more. For example, the rigid portions 50 may be provided at the bent portions 32A, 32B, 32C. For example, the rigid portions 50 may be provided at the straight portions 31A, 31D, 31E.
[0096] ·The length along the axial direction of each rigid portion 50 in the above-described embodiment can be appropriately changed. ·In the above-described embodiment, the protruding tip surface 71 of the reinforcing portion 70 is formed into a flat planar shape without unevenness, but the present invention is not limited to this.
[0097] For example, as shown in FIG. 16, a concave portion 72 that is recessed toward the inner side in the radial direction of the rigid portion 50 may be provided on the protruding tip surface 71 of the reinforcing portion 70. The protruding tip surface 71 of this modified example has a plurality of concave portions 72 provided at intervals along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. Therefore, a convex portion 73 is formed between two concave portions 72 arranged along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. The protruding tip surface 71 of this modified example has an uneven structure in which a plurality of concave portions 72 and a plurality of convex portions 73 are arranged along the axial direction of the rigid portion 50.
[0098] Each recess 72 is provided, for example, at a position corresponding to the second valley portion 52 in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. The cross-sectional shape of the bottom of each recess 72 can be any shape. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the bottom of each recess 72 may be a shape pointed like a needle, or may be a curved surface curved in an arc shape. Each recess 72 in this modified example is formed in a shape pointed like a needle.
[0099] Each protrusion 73 is provided, for example, at a position corresponding to the second peak portion 51 in the axial direction of the rigid portion 50. The cross-sectional shape of the top of each protrusion 73 can be any shape. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the top of each protrusion 73 may be a shape pointed like a needle, or may be a curved surface curved in an arc shape. Each protrusion 73 in this modified example is formed in a curved surface curved in an arc shape. Note that the top of each protrusion 73 is formed, for example, so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the outer peripheral surface of the first peak portion 41.
[0100] ·In the above embodiment, the reinforcing portion 70 is formed so as to fill both the first groove portion 61 and the second groove portion 62, but it is not limited to this. For example, the reinforcing portion 70 may be formed so as to fill only one of the first groove portion 61 and the second groove portion 62.
[0101] ·In the above embodiment, the reinforcing portion 70 is formed so as to protrude radially outward of the cylindrical member 30 from the outer peripheral surface of the first peak portion 41, but it is not limited to this. For example, the protruding tip surface 71 of the reinforcing portion 70 may be provided at a position recessed radially inward of the cylindrical member 30 from the outer peripheral surface of the first peak portion 41.
[0102] ·In the above embodiment, the thickness of the rigid portion 50 is made equal to the thickness of the bellows portion 40, but it is not limited to this. For example, the thickness of the rigid portion 50 may be made thinner than the thickness of the bellows portion 40. · In the above embodiment, the bellows 40 is formed into a bellows structure in which a plurality of first peak portions 41 and a plurality of first valley portions 42 are alternately connected along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. However, the bellows structure is not limited to this. For example, the bellows 40 may be changed to a structure in which one first peak portion 41 extends spirally along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30 and one first valley portion 42 extends spirally along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. Even in the case of the bellows 40 in this case, it has a bellows structure in which the first peak portion 41 and the first valley portion 42 are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30. In this case, also in the rigid portion 50, the second peak portion 51 extends spirally along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30 and the second valley portion 52 extends spirally along the axial direction of the cylindrical member 30.
[0103] · In the above embodiment, the number of electric wires 21 included in the wire harness 10 is not particularly limited, and the number of electric wires 21 can be changed according to the specifications of the vehicle V. For example, the number of electric wires 21 included in the wire harness 10 may be one, or may be three or more. For example, as the electric wires included in the wire harness 10, a configuration may be adopted in which a low-voltage electric wire connecting a low-voltage battery and various low-voltage devices (for example, a lamp, a car audio, etc.) is added.
[0104] · In the above embodiment, the electric wire 21 is embodied as a high-voltage electric wire, but the electric wire 21 may be embodied as a low-voltage electric wire. · In the electric wire member 20 of the above embodiment, the electromagnetic shielding member is embodied as the braided member 25, but it is not limited to this. For example, the electromagnetic shielding member in the electric wire member 20 may be embodied as a metal foil.
[0105] · The braided member 25 in the electric wire member 20 in the above embodiment may be omitted. · The arrangement relationship between the inverter 11 and the high-voltage battery 12 in the vehicle V is not limited to the above embodiment, and may be appropriately changed according to the vehicle configuration.
[0106] ·In the above-described embodiment, the inverter 11 and the high-voltage battery 12 are adopted as in-vehicle devices connected by the wire harness 10, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it may be adopted in a wire harness that connects the inverter 11 and a motor for driving wheels. That is, any device that electrically connects in-vehicle devices mounted on the vehicle V is applicable.
[0107] ·The embodiments disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description but by the scope of the claims, and it is intended that all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the scope of the claims are included.
Explanation of Reference Numerals
[0108] 10 Wire harness 11 Inverter 12 High-voltage battery 20 Electric wire member 21 Electric wire 22 Core wire 23 Insulation coating 25 Braided member 30 Cylindrical member 31A, 31B, 31C, 31D, 31E Straight portion 32A, 32B, 32C, 32D Bent portion 40 Bellows 41 First peak portion 42 First valley portion 43 Protrusion 50 Rigid portion 50A Rigid portion (first rigid portion) 50B Rigid portion (second rigid portion) 50C Rigid portion (third rigid portion) 51 Second peak portion 51A Peak-side flat portion 52 Second valley portion 52A Valley-side flat portion 53 Protrusion 60 Groove portion 61 First groove portion 62 Second groove portion 70 Reinforcing portion 71 protruding front end face 72 recess 73 protrusion 80 corrugated tube 81 first part 90, 100 molds 91, 101 opposing faces 92, 102 receiving grooves 93, 103 gaps 94, 104 receiving spaces C1, C2 connectors d1, d3 inner diameters d2 outer diameter V vehicle
Claims
1. A cylindrical member made of resin through which an electric wire passes, a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first ridge portion and a first valley portion are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a cylindrical rigid portion having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion, wherein the rigid portion has a second ridge portion and a second valley portion arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second ridge portion and the second valley portion, and a reinforcing portion formed so as to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, the reinforcing portion projects outward in the radial direction of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second ridge portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, the rigid portion is provided so as to be sandwiched between two of the bellows portions, a cylindrical member.
2. A cylindrical member made of resin through which an electric wire passes, a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first ridge portion and a first valley portion are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a cylindrical rigid portion having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion, wherein the rigid portion has a second ridge portion and a second valley portion arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second ridge portion and the second valley portion, and a reinforcing portion formed so as to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, the reinforcing portion projects outward in the radial direction of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second ridge portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, the outer shape of the second ridge portion is formed smaller than the outer shape of the first ridge portion, the outer shape of the second valley portion is formed smaller than the outer shape of the first valley portion, a cylindrical member.
3. The reinforcing portion is formed in a plate shape having a thickness in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, The cylindrical member according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the reinforcing portion projects outward in the radial direction of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the first ridge portion.
4. A cylindrical member made of resin through which an electric wire passes, a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first ridge portion and a first valley portion are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a cylindrical rigid portion having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion, wherein the rigid portion has a second ridge portion and a second valley portion arranged side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second ridge portion and the second valley portion, and a reinforcing portion formed so as to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion, The reinforcing portion protrudes radially outward of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second peak portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The inner peripheral surface of the bottom of the second trough portion is provided radially inward of the cylindrical member than the inner peripheral surface of the bottom of the first trough portion, and is a cylindrical member. **Claim 5** The rigid portion has a plurality of the reinforcing portions. The cylindrical member according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. **Claim 6** The cylindrical member according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided at equal angular intervals in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. **Claim 7** The cylindrical member according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided at intervals of 180 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. **Claim 8** The cylindrical member according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of reinforcing portions are provided at intervals of 90 degrees in the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. **Claim 9** The cylindrical member has a plurality of the rigid portions. The cylindrical member according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of rigid portions are provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. **Claim 10** A resin-made cylindrical member through which an electric wire penetrates, a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first peak portion and a first trough portion are provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, and a cylindrical rigid portion having a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion. The rigid portion has a second peak portion and a second trough portion provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second peak portion and the second trough portion, and a reinforcing portion formed to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. The reinforcing portion protrudes radially outward of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second peak portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member has a plurality of the rigid portions. The plurality of rigid portions are provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The plurality of rigid portions have a first rigid portion and a second rigid portion. The reinforcing portion of the first rigid portion is provided at a first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member, wherein the reinforcing portion of the second rigid portion is provided at a second position different from the first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member. **Claim 11** A resin-made cylindrical member through which an electric wire penetrates, a cylindrical bellows portion having a bellows structure in which a first peak portion and a first trough portion are provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. It has a cylindrical rigid portion with a higher bending rigidity than the bellows portion. The rigid portion has a second peak portion and a second valley portion provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member, a groove portion formed by the second peak portion and the second valley portion, and a reinforcing portion formed so as to fill the groove portion in a part of the circumferential direction of the rigid portion. The reinforcing portion protrudes radially outward of the cylindrical member from the outer peripheral surface of the second peak portion and extends along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member has a plurality of the rigid portions. The plurality of rigid portions are provided side by side along the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The plurality of rigid portions have a first rigid portion and a third rigid portion provided apart from each other in the axial direction of the cylindrical member. The reinforcing portion of the first rigid portion is provided at a first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member. The cylindrical member, wherein the reinforcing portion of the third rigid portion is provided at the first position in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical member.
12. A wire harness having the cylindrical member according to any one of Claims 1 to 11 and an electric wire passing through the cylindrical member.
Citation Information
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