Shock Absorbing Device

Abstract

To provide an impact absorption device which can improve a degree of freedom of an arrangement position.SOLUTION: An impact absorption device includes an impact absorption member, and an auxiliary member. The impact absorption member is rotatably mounted around a first rotation axis extending in a first direction with respect to an installation surface of the base part, and is reversibly switched between a storage state and a projection state, and the auxiliary member is rotatably mounted around a second rotation axis, and is reversibly switched between the storage state and the projection state. The height of the impact absorption member from the base part in the projection state is higher than that of the auxiliary member, in the projection state, at least parts of the impact absorption member and the auxiliary member are opposite to each other, and the impact absorption member is joined to the auxiliary member by being deformed when receiving a load having a component in an opposite direction to the side of the installation surface of the base part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a shock absorber that reduces shock during operation.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, technologies used in vehicles to reduce shock caused by accidents and the like are known. For example, Patent Document 1 describes an energy absorption device that protects pedestrians and the like who have collided with a bumper by reducing the shock generated on the bumper of a vehicle. In this energy absorption device, a gap is formed between a plurality of fins connected to a base and that absorb shock.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a shock absorber, it is necessary to form a region where a member that absorbs shock can flex. For example, in the energy absorption device described in Patent Document 1, the gap between a plurality of fins corresponds to this region. Since the shock absorber has a bulky structure as a whole when forming this region, the mounting position in a vehicle is limited, and the degree of freedom in the arrangement position is reduced.

[0005] In view of the above problems, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a shock absorber that can improve the degree of freedom in the arrangement position.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure adopts the following configuration. A shock absorber that reduces shock during operation, A shock absorption member having flexibility and attached to the base portion so as to be reversibly switchable between a stored state retracted to the side of the installation surface of the base portion and a protruding state protruding from the installation surface, An auxiliary member having flexibility and attached to the base portion so as to be reversibly switchable between a stored state retracted to the side of the installation surface and a protruding state protruding from the installation surface in synchronization with the stored state and the protruding state of the shock absorption member, When operating the shock absorption member and the auxiliary member, a drive unit that drives the shock absorption member directly or indirectly to switch the shock absorption member from at least the stored state to the protruding state, Comprising, The shock absorption member is rotatably attached around a first rotation axis extending in a first direction with respect to the installation surface of the base portion, and is reversibly switched between the stored state and the protruding state by being rotationally driven around the first rotation axis, The auxiliary member is rotatably attached around a second rotation axis extending in a second direction intersecting the No. first direction with respect to the installation surface, and is reversibly switched between the stored state and the protruding state by being rotationally driven around the second rotation axis, In the protruding state, the height from the base portion of the shock absorption member is higher than that of the auxiliary member, In the protruding state, at least a part of the shock absorption member and the auxiliary member faces each other, and the shock absorption member fits into the auxiliary member by deforming when receiving a load having a component in a direction opposite to the side of the installation surface of the base portion, Shock absorption device.

[0007] In the above shock absorption device, The auxiliary member may restrict the shock absorption member from rotating around the first rotation axis and switching to the stored state when the shock absorption member receives the load in the protruding state.

[0008] In the above shock absorber, The shock absorption member is formed at a position facing the auxiliary member in the protruding state, and has a first groove that can be fitted with a part of the auxiliary member. When the shock absorption member receives the load, at least a part of the shock absorption member may deform toward the auxiliary member, so that the first groove may be fitted with a part of the auxiliary member.

[0009] In the above shock absorber, The auxiliary member is formed at a position facing the first groove in the protruding state, and has a protruding portion protruding in the second direction. When the auxiliary member receives the load, the auxiliary member may deform toward the first direction, so that the protruding portion may be fitted with the first groove.

[0010] In the above shock absorber, When the shock absorption member receives the load, a part of it deforms convexly in the predetermined second direction. The auxiliary member may have a second groove that can be fitted with the shock absorption member by deforming so as to sandwich the convexly deformed portion of the shock absorption member when the auxiliary member receives the load.

[0011] In the above shock absorber, The shock absorption member may have a deformation assisting portion formed along the first direction so as to deform preferentially in the second direction when the shock absorption member receives the load.

[0012] In the above shock absorber, The shock absorption member may have higher flexibility than the auxiliary member.

[0013] In the above shock absorber, The shock absorption members are arranged in multiple rows with intervals in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. Each of the multiple rows of shock absorption members In the stored state, it is maintained in a lying posture along the installation surface, When switching from the stored state to the protruding state, it is rotated and driven in a predetermined starting direction around the first rotating shaft, so as to be switched from the lying posture to an upright posture standing up from the installation surface, When switching from the protruding state to the stored state, it may be rotated and driven in a lying direction opposite to the starting direction around the first rotating shaft, so as to be switched from the upright posture to the lying posture.

[0014] In the above shock absorption device, The auxiliary member, is arranged between each row of the plurality of rows of shock absorption members, In the stored state, a part of the shock absorption members in adjacent rows is maintained in a lying posture along the installation surface so as to cover at least a part of the auxiliary member from above, When switching from the stored state to the protruding state, it is rotated and driven in a predetermined starting direction around the second rotating shaft, so as to be switched from the lying posture to an upright posture. When switching from the protruding state to the stored state, it may be rotated and driven in the lying direction opposite to the starting direction around the second rotating shaft, so as to be switched from the upright posture to the lying posture.

[0015] In the above shock absorption device, the auxiliary member may face the shock absorption members in the adjacent rows on both sides in the protruding state.

[0016] The above shock absorption device, further includes one or more driving force transmission members that are connected to the auxiliary member, have flexibility at least in part, and are driven by the driving part, When the driving part operates the shock absorption member, the auxiliary member is switched from the lying posture to the standing posture by driving the driving force transmission member, and the shock absorption member may be switched from the lying posture to the standing posture along with the auxiliary member.

[0017] The above shock absorption device is a plurality of the auxiliary members, a single driving force transmission member, and includes a plurality of the auxiliary members may be connected to the driving force transmission member.

[0018] In the above shock absorption device, the driving force transmission member may have a plate-shaped portion, and the plate-shaped portion may be driven by the driving part while maintaining a state parallel to the installation surface.

[0019] In the above shock absorption device, the first direction and the second direction may be orthogonal to each other.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the technology of the present disclosure, the degree of freedom in the arrangement position of the shock absorption device can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] Hereinafter, a shock absorber according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that each configuration and their combinations in each embodiment are examples, and within the scope not departing from the gist of the present disclosure, addition, omission, substitution, and other changes of the configuration can be made as appropriate. The present disclosure is not limited by the embodiments, but is limited only by the claims.

[0023] <Embodiment 1> The shock absorber according to Embodiment 1 will be described. The shock absorber according to this embodiment is mounted on a vehicle such as an automobile and is exemplified as a device that protects an occupant riding in the vehicle. The shock absorber is attached to an object to be attached that constitutes the vehicle and protects the occupant during operation. Examples of the object to be attached that constitutes the vehicle include structures that constitute the vehicle body such as pillars and ceilings, and those fixed to structures that constitute the vehicle body such as dashboards and steering wheels. The shock absorber is fixed to the vehicle by being attached to such an object to be attached. Note that the base portion itself may be these objects to be attached themselves, or the shock absorption portion 12 and the like described later may be directly provided on the object to be attached.

[0024] Next, based on FIGS. 1A to 2B, the shock absorber 10 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views schematically showing the appearance of the shock absorber 10 according to the present embodiment. FIGS. 2A and 2B are plan views schematically showing the appearance of the shock absorber 10 according to the present embodiment. The shock absorber 10 includes a base portion 11 attached to an object to be attached to a vehicle, and a shock absorption portion 12 attached to the surface (an example of the "installation surface") side of the base portion 11. The base portion 11 has a rectangular plate shape, the shock absorption portion 12 is disposed on the front surface side, and the back surface side is attached to the object to be attached. Hereinafter, as shown in FIGS. 1A to 2B, the direction along the long side of the base portion 11 is defined as the X-axis, the direction along the short side of the base portion 11 is defined as the Y axis, and the direction orthogonal to both the X-axis and the Y-axis (the direction orthogonal to the front and back surfaces of the base portion) is defined as the Z-axis. The shock absorber 10 is a device for protecting an occupant who is an object to be protected in the Z-axis direction. Note that the direction along the X-axis is defined as the "row" of the matrix, and the direction along the Y-axis is defined as the "column" of the matrix.

[0025] The shock absorption portion 12 is generally flexible, and when an accident or the like occurs in the vehicle and an inertial force is generated on the occupant and the occupant collides, it deforms to absorb the force (load) applied to the occupant. Thereby, the shock absorption portion 12 alleviates the impact on the occupant and protects the occupant. The shock absorption portion 12 is configured to be able to project toward the passenger compartment where the occupant rides. More specifically, the shock absorption portion 12 is configured to be able to reversibly switch between a storage state in which it retracts from the passenger compartment to the side of the base portion 11 and a protruding state in which it protrudes from the base portion 11 toward the passenger compartment. In the state shown in FIGS. 1A to 2B, the shock absorption portion 12 is in the storage state.

[0026] The shock absorption portion 12 includes a shock absorption member 20, fins 21 (an example of an "auxiliary member"), and a top plate portion 22 (an example of a "driving force transmission member"). In FIGS. 1A and 2A, the illustration of the top plate portion 22 is omitted for the sake of explanation.

[0027] The shock absorption member 20 is formed of rubber or the like and has flexibility that allows it to deform such as stretching and contracting. The shock absorption member 20 has a shape in which the direction along the X-axis is the longitudinal direction (a shape that extends integrally in the X-axis direction), and three of them are arranged in three rows in the Y-axis direction. The shock absorption member 20 is attached to the surface side of the base portion 11 so as to be rotatable with respect to a rotation axis 20A (an example of a "first rotation axis") that extends in a direction along the X-axis (an example of a "first direction") with respect to the surface of the base portion 11. In FIGS. 1A and 2A, the rotation axis 20A is represented by a dashed line. The rotation axes 20A of the three shock absorption members 20 are set at intervals in a direction along the Y-axis (an example of a "second direction") so that each shock absorption member 20 can operate without interfering with each other. Hereinafter, the shock absorption members arranged in three rows may sometimes be referred to as the shock absorption members 20 in multiple rows. In this way, the shock absorption portion 12 includes the shock absorption members 20 in multiple rows.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1A, each of the shock absorption members 20 in multiple rows is maintained in a lying posture along the surface of the base portion 11 in the stored state. When each of the shock absorption members 20 in multiple rows is switched from the stored state to the protruding state, it is rotated and driven in the activation direction centered on the rotation axis 20A to be switched from the lying posture to the standing posture standing up from the surface of the base portion 11. The activation direction of the shock absorption member 20 is clockwise when viewed in the positive direction of the X-axis. Also, when each of the shock absorption members 20 in multiple rows is switched from the protruding state to the stored state, it is rotated and driven in the lying direction opposite to the activation direction centered on the rotation axis 20A to be switched from the standing posture to the lying posture. The lying direction of the shock absorption member 20 is counterclockwise when viewed in the positive direction of the X-axis. In this way, each of the shock absorption members 20 in multiple rows is configured to be reversibly switchable between the stored state and the protruding state.

[0029] The fin 21 is formed of rubber or the like and has flexibility that can be deformed such as stretching and shrinking. The fin 21 transmits the power from the drive unit to the shock absorption member 20 to raise the shock absorption member 20. The drive unit can indirectly drive the shock absorption member 20 by driving the fin 21. In the present embodiment, four fins 21 are arranged for one shock absorption member 20. That is, a total of 12 fins 21 are arranged in four rows in the direction along the X-axis and three columns in the direction along the Y-axis. The plurality of fins 21 are attached to the surface of the base portion 11 around a rotation axis 21A (an example of the "second rotation axis") that intersects the rotation axis 20A. In FIG. 2A, the rotation axis 21A of the fin 21 in the second row and the first column is represented by a dashed line. Each fin 21 has rotation axes 21A that are parallel to each other. The plurality of fins 21 are rotatable around the rotation axis 21A.

[0030] In the stored state, each of the plurality of fins 21 is maintained in a lying posture along the surface of the base portion 11 such that at least a part of the shock absorption member 20 to be erected covers at least a part of the fin 21 from above. Each of the plurality of fins 21 erects the shock absorption members 20 arranged in the same column. When each of the plurality of fins 21 is switched from the stored state to the protruding state, it is rotated and driven in the activation direction centered on the rotation axis 21A, thereby being switched from the lying posture to the standing posture. The activation direction of the fin 21 is counterclockwise when viewed in the positive direction of the Y axis. Also, when each of the plurality of fins 21 is switched from the protruding state to the stored state, it is rotated and driven in the lying direction opposite to the activation direction centered on the rotation axis 21A, thereby being switched from the standing posture to the lying posture. The lying direction of the fin 21 is clockwise when viewed in the positive direction of the Y axis. When the fin 21 is switched from the lying posture to the standing posture, by pushing up the shock absorption member 20 to be erected, the shock absorption member 20 can be rotated in the activation direction of the rotation axis 20A. It should be noted that the angle formed by the rotation axis 20A of the shock absorption member 20 and the rotation axis 21A of the fin 21 is preferably an acute angle, not a right angle. The fin 21 can be reversibly switched between the stored state and the protruding state in synchronization with the stored state and the protruding state of the shock absorption member 20.

[0031] The top plate portion 22 shown in FIGS. 1B and 2B is formed of rubber or the like and has flexibility. The top plate portion 22 is provided to transmit the power from the driving portion to each fin 21 by being driven by the driving portion. The top plate portion 22 has connecting portions 22A to 22C that are connected to the same row fins 21, that is, each fin 21 for which the shock absorption member 20 to be erected is the same. Each of the connecting portions 22A to 22C has a shape in which the direction along the X axis is the longitudinal direction. The connecting portion 22A is connected to each fin 21 in the first column. The connecting portion 22B is connected to each fin 21 in the second column. The connecting portion 22C is connected to each fin 21 in the third column. Thereby, the top plate portion 22 is connected to all the fins 21.

[0032] Further, the top plate portion 22 has a pair of connecting portions 22D that connect the respective connecting portions 22A to 22C to be integrated. Each connecting portion 22D connects the respective connecting portions 22A to 22C at both ends in the direction along the X-axis. Thereby, the top plate portion 22 can transmit all the power of the driving portion to all the fins 21. Thus, in the present embodiment, the shock absorbing portion 12 includes a single top plate portion 22 in which the connecting portions 22A, 22B, 22C and the connecting portion 22D are integrally formed.

[0033] When the driving portion of the shock absorbing device 10 operates the shock absorbing portion 12, the top plate portion 22 is driven, so that each fin 21 is switched from the lying posture to the standing posture, and the shock absorbing member 20 accompanying each fin 21 is switched from the lying posture to the standing posture. Thereby, the shock absorbing device 10 according to the present embodiment can switch the shock absorbing portion 12 from the housed state to the protruding state when the driving portion operates the shock absorbing portion 12.

[0034] Next, based on FIGS. 3A to 6B, the operation of the shock absorbing device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIGS. 3A to 4B show a state in the middle of switching of the shock absorbing portion 12 from the housed state to the protruding state. FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views schematically showing the appearance of the shock absorbing device 10, and FIGS. 4A and 4B are plan views schematically showing the appearance of the shock absorbing device 10. Further, FIGS. 5A to 6B show a state in which the switching of the shock absorbing portion 12 from the housed state to the protruding state is completed. FIGS. 5A and 5B are perspective views schematically showing the appearance of the shock absorbing device 10, and FIGS. 6A and 6B are plan views schematically showing the appearance of the shock absorbing device 10. Note that, in FIGS. 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A, the illustration of the top plate portion 22 is omitted for the sake of explanation.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B, the top plate portion 22 is moving in the negative X-axis direction from the stored state. This movement operation of the top plate portion 22 is caused by the driving portion driving the top plate portion 22 in the negative X-axis direction. For example, a solenoid, a motor, an electromagnet, etc. are used as the driving portion, and the driving portion is connected to the connection portion 22D on the negative side of the X-axis of the top plate portion 22 via a string or a rod. By pulling this string or rod in the negative X-axis direction by the driving portion, the top plate portion 22 moves in the negative direction at X time. Further, by the movement of the top plate portion 22, each fin 21 is rotationally driven in the activation direction. By rotationally driving the fin 21 in the activation direction, the shock absorption member 20 to be erected is pushed up, and the shock absorption member 20 rotates in the activation direction about the rotation axis 20A. As shown in FIGS. 5A to 6B, when the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 are in the erected posture, the shock absorption portion 12 is switched to the protruding state. Note that the height (length in the Z-axis direction) from the base portion 11 in the protruding state is formed such that the shock absorption member 20 is higher than the fin 21 in the shock absorption portion 12.

[0036] Further, as shown in FIG. 5A, the shock absorption device 10 according to the present embodiment includes a restricting portion 13 that restricts the rotation of the shock absorption member 20 around the rotation axis 20A in the activation direction when the shock absorption member 20 is switched from the lying posture to the erected posture. In the present embodiment, one shock absorption member 20 has five rotation axes (not shown), and the restricting portion 13 is provided for each arrangement position of the rotation axes. The restricting portion 13 inhibits the shock absorption member 20 in the erected posture from further rotating in the activation direction. [[ID=⑤]] [[ID=⑥]]

[0037] [[ID=⑦]] [[ID=⑧]]Further, as shown in FIG. 6A, the fin 21 has a contact portion 21B (an example of a "first contact portion") that contacts the shock absorption member 20 to be erected when switched to the erected posture. In FIG. 6A, the contact portion 21B of the fin 21 in the first row and second column is marked with a reference numeral, but all the fins 21 have the contact portion 21B. The contact portion 21B restricts the shock absorption member 20 in the erected posture from rotating in the lying direction. [[ID=⑨]] [[ID=⑩]]

[0038] [[ID=⑪]] Also, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 6A, when the fin 21 is switched to the standing posture, the fin 21 has a contact portion 21C that contacts other rows of shock absorption members 20 adjacent to the shock absorption member 20 to be stood up. In FIG. 6A, the contact portion 21C of the fin 21 in the second column of the first row is marked with a reference sign, but at least the fins 21 in the second and third columns have the contact portion 21C.

[0039] Also, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 6A, the shock absorption member 20 has a groove portion 20B that suppresses interference with the contact portion 21C of the fin 21 in the process until the fin 21 is switched from the lying posture to the standing posture. The groove portion 20B is formed on the side surface of the shock absorption member 20 corresponding to each contact portion 21C. The groove portion 20B is formed along the movement locus of the contact portion 21C when the fin 21 moves. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the shock absorption members 20 in other rows adjacent to the shock absorption member 20 to be stood up by the fin 21 from being inhibited from rotating by the contact portion 21C of the fin 21.

[0040] Also, as shown in FIG. 6A, the fins 21 in the second and third columns are intermediate fins 210 arranged between the shock absorption member 20 to be stood up and the shock absorption members 20 in other rows adjacent to the shock absorption member 20. In a state where the intermediate fin 210 is in the standing posture, the contact portion 21B of the shock absorption member 20 to be stood up and the intermediate fin 210 comes into contact, and the second contact portion 21C of the shock absorption members 20 in other rows and the intermediate fin 210 comes into contact. Thereby, the intermediate fin 210 can support the shock absorption member 20 to be stood up and the shock absorption members 20 in other rows adjacent to the shock absorption member 20 in the standing posture.

[0041] Also, as shown in FIGS. 2B, 4B, and 6B, the top plate portion 22 has a plate-like portion 22E formed substantially flat. The plate-like portion 22E is disposed on the surface side of the top plate portion 22 and faces the occupant. It is a part that can be... The top plate part 22 is driven by the drive part while maintaining the state where the plate-like part 22E is parallel to the base part 11. The plate-like part 22E functions as a surface for receiving the body of the occupant. By having the plate-like part 22E, the possibility of the occupant being injured can be reduced. Note that for the top plate part 22, at least the plate-like part 22E only needs to have flexibility in order to reduce the possibility of the occupant being injured.

[0042] As described above, in the shock absorber 10 according to the present embodiment, since the shock absorption part 12 can be switched between the housed state and the protruding state, when not in operation, the shock absorption part 12 maintains the housed state, preventing it from being bulky and can be arranged in the passenger compartment or the like. Therefore, the degree of freedom in arrangement of the shock absorber 10 according to the present embodiment is improved. Further, since the shock absorption part 12 of the shock absorber 10 has flexibility, the top plate part 22 can return to its original shape even after receiving the occupant. Moreover, since it can be switched between the protruding state and the housed state, it can be used repeatedly. In the shock absorber 10, when the drive part operates the shock absorption part 12, the drive for switching the shock absorption part 12 from the housed state to the protruding state and from the protruding state to the housed state may be manually performed by the occupant. Alternatively, the drive part may perform the drive for switching the shock absorption part 12 from the protruding state to the housed state. For example, the drive part includes an elastic member that biases the top plate part 22 in the positive direction of the X-axis. When switching from the protruding state to the housed state, the stretched state of a string (not shown) attached to the top plate part 22 may be released to move the top plate part 22 in the positive direction of the X-axis and switch the shock absorption part 12 to the housed state. Furthermore, a drive part that drives the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 separately may be used, or one drive part may drive the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 together.

[0043] <Modification Example> Next, the shock absorber 10 according to the modification example of the present embodiment will be described. The shock absorber 10 according to this modification example has a configuration (structure) for preventing the shock absorption member 20 from falling toward the housed state when a load is applied to the shock absorption member 20 in the protruding state.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the shock absorber 10 according to this modified example when viewed from the negative side to the positive side of the X-axis. In the protruding state of the shock absorption portion 12, the shock absorption members 20 and the fins 21 face each other, and the shock absorption member 20 deforms when receiving a load having a component in the direction opposite to the surface side of the base portion 11 (negative direction of the Z-axis), thereby fitting into the fins 21. The fins 21 are formed at positions facing the shock absorption members 20 in the protruding state, and have protruding portions 211 protruding in either the positive or negative direction of the Y-axis. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the protruding portions 211 are formed on both sides of the fins 21. For example, when the fin 21 is the intermediate fin 210 shown in FIG. 6, the fin 21 faces the shock absorption members 20 in the adjacent rows on both sides in the protruding state, and each of the pair of protruding portions 211 formed on both sides faces the shock absorption members 20 in the adjacent rows on both sides. Note that the fin 21 only needs to have at least the protruding portion 211 on the negative side of the Y-axis. Further, the shock absorption members 20 and the fins 21 can be set at right angles and angles close thereto with respect to the base portion 11 in the protruding state. Further, in this modified example, it is preferable that the direction (first direction) in which the rotation axis of the shock absorption member 20 extends and the direction (second direction) in which the rotation axis of the fin extends are orthogonal to each other. Further, considering that the shock absorption member 20 deforms first when receiving an impact, the shock absorption member 20 may be more flexible than the fins 21 from the viewpoint of shock mitigation when contacting the shock absorption member 20.

[0045] FIGS. 8(A) and 8(B) are schematic views showing a part of the shock absorption member 20 facing one fin 21 extracted. FIG. 8(A) shows a part of the shock absorption member 20 in a state where no load is applied, extracted. The shock absorption member 20 is in a protruding state It has a groove 200 (an example of the "first groove") formed at a position facing the fin 21 in a state and capable of being fitted with a part of the fin 21. The groove 200 is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape whose longitudinal direction is along the Z-axis and penetrates through the shock absorption member 20. In the example shown in FIG. 8(A), the groove 200 is formed such that its center is arranged in the Z-axis direction of the shock absorption member 20. Note that the groove 200 may be formed non-penetratingly in the shock absorption member 20 as long as it can be fitted with the fin 21.

[0046] FIG. 8(B) is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the shock absorption member 20 is fitted to the protruding portion 211 of the fin 21 when a load is applied to the shock absorption member 20. In FIG. 8(B), only the protruding portion 211 is extracted from the fin 21, and the protruding portion 211 is schematically shown in a rectangular plate shape. Since the height of the shock absorption member 20 from the installation surface of the base portion 11 is higher than that of the fin 21, when a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis is applied to the shock absorption portion 12, first, the shock absorption member 20 receives the load and deforms. As shown in FIG. 8(B), when the shock absorption member 20 receives a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis, the portion including the groove 200 of the shock absorption member 20 deforms toward the fin 21, so that the groove 200 is fitted with the protruding portion 211 of the fin 21. Thereby, when the shock absorption member 20 receives a load in the protruding state, the rotation of the fin 21 around the coaxial 21A (see FIG. 2A etc.) and the switching to the storage state are restricted. Therefore, the upright posture of the shock absorption member 20 is maintained even when a load is applied. Note that the groove 200 only needs to be fitted with a part of the fin 21, and the fin 21 does not have to be provided with the protruding portion 211.

[0047] Figs. 9(A) and 9(B) are schematic views showing another example of the groove 200. Figs. 9(A) and 9(B) are, similar to Figs. 8(A) and 8(B), extracting and showing a part of the shock absorption member 20 facing one fin 21. Fig. 9(A) extracts and shows a part of the shock absorption member 20 in a state where no load is applied. In this example, the groove 200 is formed to a length that reaches the lower part of the shock absorption member 20. The groove 200 is formed in a rectangular shape whose longitudinal direction is along the Z-axis, and is formed through the shock absorption member 20 to reach the lower part of the shock absorption member 20.

[0048] Fig. 9(B) is a schematic view showing a state where the shock absorption member 20 fits into the protruding portion 211 of the fin 21 when a load is applied to the shock absorption member 20. In Fig. 9(B), only the protruding portion 211 is extracted from the fin 21, and the protruding portion 211 is schematically shown in a rectangular plate shape. As shown in Fig. 9(B), when the shock absorption member 20 receives a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis, the portion including the groove 200 of the shock absorption member 20 deforms toward the fin 21, so that the groove 200 fits into the protruding portion 211 of the fin 21. Thus, as long as the groove 200 can fit with a part of the fin 21, it may be formed at any position. Note that the groove 200 is not limited to a rectangular shape, and may be an oval shape (track shape), an elliptical shape, or other shapes as long as it can fit with a part of the fin 21.

[0049] In this way, when the impact absorption member 20 receives a load in the protruding state, the fin 21 is restricted from rotating around the rotation coaxial line 21A (see FIG. 2A etc.) and switching to the stored state. Thereby, even when a load is applied, the standing posture of the impact absorption member 20 is maintained. The impact absorption device 10 according to this modification can prevent the impact absorption member 20 from falling toward the stored state when a load is applied to the impact absorption member 20. Note that, in the protruding state of the impact absorption portion 12, the impact absorption member 20 does not necessarily have to be in contact with the fin 21. After the impact absorption member 20 is deformed by receiving a load, it is sufficient that the impact absorption member 20 can be engaged with the fin 21. For this reason, in the protruding state of the impact absorption portion 12, it is sufficient that the surface of the impact absorption member 20 and the side surface of the fin 21 face each other. In this case, for example, the impact absorption member 20 and the fin 21 may be driven by separate drive units. Note that the fin 21 is driven in synchronization with the impact absorption member 20 。

[0050] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing one fin 21 and a part of the impact absorption member 20 facing the fin 21 extracted. FIG. 10 shows a state in which a load in the negative direction of the Z axis is applied to the impact absorption member 20 and the fin 21. FIG. 11 is a schematic view when the state shown in FIG. 10 is viewed from above. In FIG. 11, in addition to the groove 200 of the impact absorption member 20, a groove 212 (an example of the "second groove") is also formed in the fin 21. When the impact absorption member 20 and the fin 21 receive a load in the negative direction of the Z axis, in this example, the impact absorption member 20 deforms in the positive direction of the Y axis (an example of the "predetermined second direction"), and further the fin 21 also deforms in the positive direction of the X axis. In FIG. 11, the impact absorption member 20 and the fin 21 before deformation are shown by solid lines, the impact absorption member 20 and the fin 21 after deformation are shown by broken lines, and the deformed portions are filled with hatching.

[0051] As shown in Fig. 11, when the fin 21 receives a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis, it deforms so as to sandwich the convexly deformed portion of the shock absorption member 20, and thus has a groove 212 that can be engaged with the shock absorption member 20. When the shock absorption member 20 receives a load, a part of it deforms convexly in the positive direction of the Y-axis so as to sandwich the fin 21. Further, when the fin 21 also deforms, the shock absorption member 20 is sandwiched by the groove 212 of the fin 21. The groove 212 is formed within the protruding portion 211 and faces the side surface of the groove 200 within the groove 200 of the shock absorption member 20 before deformation. When the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 are deformed, the groove 212 engages with the side surface of the groove 200 within the shock absorption member 20, so that the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 support each other. Thereby, when the shock absorption member 20 receives a load, the switching of the shock absorption member 20 to the stored state is restricted. The shock absorption device 10 can efficiently absorb the shock received by the shock absorption member 20.

[0052] Figs. 12(A) and 12(B) are schematic views showing one fin 21 and a part of the shock absorption member 20 facing the fin 21 extracted. Figs. 12(A) and 12(B) show the state of viewing the shock absorption device 10 from the positive side to the negative side of the X-axis. Fig. 12(A) shows the shock absorption member 20 in a state where no load is applied. Fig. 12(B) shows a state where the shock absorption member 20 is engaged with the protruding portion 211 of the fin 21 when a load is applied to the shock absorption member 20 from the state shown in Fig. 12(A). The shock absorption member 20 has a deformation assisting portion 201 formed on the negative side of the Y-axis of the shock absorption member 20 so as to deform preferentially in the positive direction of the Y-axis when the shock absorption member 20 receives a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The deformation assisting portion 201 is formed along the X-axis direction over the entire shock absorption member 20.

[0053] In this example, the deformation assisting portion 201 is a thin portion formed along the X-axis direction on the side surface of the shock absorbing member 20. When a load is applied, since the deformation assisting portion 201, which is a thin portion, cannot support the input load, the shock absorbing member 20 is likely to deform in the positive direction of the Y-axis, which is the side opposite to the side where the deformation assisting portion 201 is formed. A fin 21 that fits with the shock absorbing member 20 is disposed in the positive direction of the Y-axis of the shock absorbing member 20. For this reason, the shock absorbing member 20 always deforms in the same direction when receiving a load, and it becomes easier to fit with the fin 21.

[0054] Also, the deformation assisting portion may be formed by deforming the shock absorbing member 20 in advance. FIGS. 13(A) and 13(B) are schematic views showing one fin 21 and a part of the shock absorbing member 20 facing the fin 21 extracted. FIGS. 13(A) and 13(B) show a state of viewing the shock absorbing device 10 from the positive side to the negative side of the X-axis. FIG. 13(A) shows the shock absorbing member 20 in a state where no load is applied. FIG. 13(B) shows a state where the shock absorbing member 20 is fitted to the protruding portion 211 of the fin 21 when a load is applied to the shock absorbing member 20 from the state shown in FIG. 13(A). The shock absorbing member 20 has a deformation assisting portion 202 that is deformed in advance toward the positive side of the Y-axis of the shock absorbing member 20 so as to preferentially deform in the positive direction of the Y-axis when receiving a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis. The deformation assisting portion 202 is formed over the entire shock absorbing member 20 along the X-axis direction.

[0055] In this example, the deformation assisting portion 202 is a portion that extends along the X-axis direction on the side surface of the shock absorbing member 20 and is deformed in advance toward the positive side of the Y-axis. By forming such a deformation assisting portion 202 on the shock absorbing member 20, when a load is applied to the shock absorbing member 20, the shock absorbing member 20It can be deformed. The deformation support portion may be formed on the fin 21. For example, when it is desired to deform the fin 21 in the positive direction of the X axis as in the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the deformation support portion can be formed so that the fin 21 deforms in that direction.

[0056] Next, another example of the shock absorption member 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIGS. 14(A) and 14(B) show a part of the shock absorption member 20 before deformation extracted. FIG. 14(A) is a perspective view of the shock absorption member 20, and FIG. 14(B) is a schematic view of the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 facing the shock absorption member 20 as viewed from above.

[0057] In this example, a pair of hemispherical protrusions 203 are formed on the surface of the shock absorption member 20 on the side facing the fin 21. The pair of protrusions 203 are arranged with a space therebetween such that the fin 21 can be fitted therebetween. The amount of protrusion of the protrusion 203 from the surface of the shock absorption member 20 is set such that the fin 21 is not disengaged from the fitting with the shock absorption member 20 when the fin 21 is sandwiched between the protrusions. If the protrusion 203 is protruded unnecessarily, it will bulge when the shock absorption member 20 is in the stored state. Therefore, the protrusion amount of the protrusion 203 is set in consideration of the fitting state and the stored state.

[0058] Also, as shown in FIG. 14(B), when the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 are in the protruding state, the end portion of the fin 21 is located between the two protrusions 203. In order to ensure a deformation allowance for the shock absorption member 20 to deform when a load is applied in the negative direction of the Z axis of the shock absorption member 20, it is preferable not to bring the fin 21 into contact with the shock absorption member 20 when in the protruding state. In this case, for example, the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 are driven by separate drive units.

[0059] Figures 14(C) and 14(D) show a partially extracted view of the deformed shock absorption member 20. Figure 14(C) is a perspective view of the shock absorption member 20, and Figure 14(D) is a schematic view of the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 facing the shock absorption member 20 as viewed from above.

[0060] Figures 14(C) and 14(D) show a state in which a load in the negative direction of the Z-axis is applied to the shock absorption member 20 and the shock absorption member 20 is deformed. In this state, the shock absorption member 20 that was separated comes into contact with the fin 21, and the two protrusions 203 are deformed so as to sandwich the fin 21. In the state shown in Figures 14(C) and 14(D), the fin 21 also starts to deform while being sandwiched between the two protrusions. The two protrusions 203 are preferably formed at the location where the amount of deformation is the largest when the shock absorption member 20 is deformed, and further preferably are hemispherical protrusions so as not to inhibit the deformation of the shock absorption member 20. For example, if the protrusion 203 is formed in a shape that is long in the Z-axis direction, the rigidity of the shock absorption member 20 in the Z-axis direction increases, and it becomes difficult for the shock absorption member 20 to deform in the Z-axis direction, which is not preferable.

[0061] Also, as shown in Figure 14(D), a part of the shock absorption member 20 is deformed and comes into contact while approaching the fin 21 side. The shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 are fitted together by the two protrusions 203 sandwiching the fin 21. As the deformation progresses, the part of the fin 21 other than the part sandwiched by the two protrusions 203 may be deformed, or the part other than this part may shrink.

[0062] In this way, by providing the protrusions 203 instead of grooves on the shock absorption member 20, the shock absorption member 20 and the fin 21 may be configured to be capable of being fitted together. Also in this example, the fin 21 maintains the standing state of the fin 21 when the shock absorption member 20 receives a load in the protruding state, and restricts the shock absorption member 20 from switching to the stored state.

[0063] Next, based on FIGS. 15 and 16, the drive control of the shock absorber device 10 will be described. For example, the shock absorber device 10 is driven so that the shock absorption member 20 is switched from the stored state to the protruding state when a signal indicating that the vehicle has decelerated rapidly or that an inertial force has acted on the occupant and the occupant has moved is detected by a sensor or the like. FIG. 15 is a block diagram including the vehicle 100 in which the shock absorber device 10 is arranged. In the present embodiment, the shock absorber devices 10 are mounted at a plurality of locations inside the vehicle. For example, the shock absorber devices 10 may be arranged in the number corresponding to the maximum number of passengers in the vehicle 100, and one device may be arranged for each occupant. Four shock absorber devices 10 are shown in FIG. 15, and the functional parts of one of the shock absorber devices 10 are typically shown. The shock absorber device 10 has a control unit 101. The control unit 101 is constituted by, for example, a microcomputer, and executes each process by causing a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown) to execute a program stored in a storage means (ROM (Read Only Memory) or the like, not shown).

[0064] Furthermore, FIG. 15 also shows a sensor 103, a position information acquisition unit 104, a travel control unit 105, and a travel drive unit 106 mounted on the vehicle 100. First, the configurations related to these vehicles 100 will be described. The vehicle 100 is capable of autonomous driving in which it travels on the road in an appropriate manner while sensing its surroundings. Note that the vehicle 100 can of course also be manually driven by a passenger. The sensor 103 is a means for sensing the surroundings of the vehicle 100 in order to acquire information necessary for the autonomous driving of the vehicle 100, and typically includes a stereo camera, a laser scanner, a LIDAR, various radars, and the like. The information acquired by the sensor 103 is transmitted to the travel control unit 105 and used by the travel control unit 105 for recognizing obstacles, pedestrians, travel lanes, etc. existing around the vehicle 100. In the present embodiment, the sensor 103 may include a visible light camera or an infrared camera for monitoring. Also, the position information acquisition unit 104 is a means for acquiring the current position of the vehicle 100, and typically includes a GPS receiver and the like. The information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 104 is also transmitted to the travel control unit 105 and used for predetermined processes such as calculating a route for the vehicle 100 to reach a destination using the current position of the vehicle 100 and calculating the required time to reach the destination.

[0065] The travel control unit 105 is a computer that controls the vehicle 100 based on the information acquired from the sensor 103 and the position information acquisition unit 104. The travel control unit 105 is configured by, for example, a microcomputer, and a program stored in a storage means (such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), not shown) is caused to be executed by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) (not shown) to realize the functions for performing the various processes described above.

[0066] As specific examples of various processes performed by the travel control unit 105, there can be exemplified a process of generating a travel plan for the vehicle 100, a process of detecting predetermined data around the vehicle 100 necessary for autonomous driving based on the data acquired by the sensor 103, a process of generating a control command for controlling autonomous driving based on the travel plan, the predetermined data, and the position information of the vehicle 100 acquired by the position information acquisition unit 104, etc. . The process of generating a travel plan is a process of determining a travel route for reaching the destination from the departure point. Further, the process of detecting predetermined data is, for example, a process of detecting the number and position of lanes, the number and position of other vehicles existing around the vehicle 100, the number and position of obstacles (e.g., pedestrians, bicycles, structures, buildings, etc.) existing around the vehicle 100, the road structure, road signs, etc. Further, the above control command is transmitted to the travel drive unit 106 described later. As a method for generating a control command for autonomously driving the vehicle 100, a known method can be adopted.

[0067] The travel drive unit 106 is a means for driving the vehicle 100 based on the control command generated by the travel control unit 105. The travel drive unit 106 includes, for example, a motor for driving wheels, an engine, an inverter, a brake, a steering mechanism, etc., and by driving the motor, brake, etc. according to the control command, autonomous driving of the vehicle 100 is realized.

[0068] Next, based on FIG. 16, the details of the drive control will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart regarding the process performed by the control unit 101. This process is repeatedly executed by the control unit 101 at a predetermined interval. First, in S101, the control unit 101 acquires various information. The various information is transmitted from the travel control unit 105.

[0069] Next, in S102, the control unit 101 determines whether drive control is necessary. If the control unit 101 determines that the various information acquired in S101 includes information indicating that the vehicle 100 has been rapidly decelerated, it determines that drive control is necessary.

[0070] When the control unit 101 determines in S102 that drive control is necessary, it executes the process of S103. In S103, the control unit 101 executes drive control. For example, the drive unit 102 includes a solenoid, a motor, an electromagnet, etc., and drives the top plate portion 22. Thereby, the shock absorber 10 according to the present embodiment can switch the shock absorption portion 12 from the housed state to the protruding state. Note that the shock absorption member 20 and the fins 21 may be driven separately in synchronization.

[0071] <Other Embodiments> As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, but the various embodiments described above can be combined as much as possible.

[0072] Also, in Embodiment 1, the top plate portion 22 is integrally formed by connecting the connecting portions 22A, 22B, 22C to each other at the connecting portion 22D. However, the connecting portions 22A, 22B, 22C may not be connected to each other and each of the connecting portions 22A, 22B, 22C may be driven by a drive unit. In this case, the shock absorber 10 is provided with a plurality of driving force transmission members. Note that the drive unit may drive the fins 21 without providing a driving force transmission member.

[0073] Also, the shock absorber 10 according to Embodiment 1 and its modified example can be operated to avoid the collision between the occupant and the vehicle components due to the sudden braking of the vehicle even when the vehicle does not reach a collision. Therefore, the shock absorber 10 can be operated every time the vehicle suddenly brakes. Note that any of the shock absorbers 10 can be attached and used at any part of the vehicle. For example, if the shock absorber 10 is inside the vehicle, it can be attached to the dashboard lower panel that covers the steering column shaft to protect the occupant sitting in the driver's seat, the back of the front seat backrest to protect the occupant sitting in the rear seat, or inside the seat back to prevent the submarining phenomenon of the occupant sitting on the seat. Also, these shock absorbers can be attached and used outside the vehicle to protect the occupants of the vehicle when the vehicle collides with an obstacle or another vehicle on the road.

[0074] Further, the shock absorber 10 may be attached to other than a vehicle. For example, the shock absorber 10 is attached to a robot and may protect the robot. Further, the shock absorber 10 is attached to a jacket and may protect the wearer of the jacket when the wearer falls down.

[0075] Each aspect disclosed in this specification can be combined with any other feature disclosed in this specification.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0076] 10 ··· Shock absorber 11 ··· Base part 12 ··· Shock absorption part 13 ··· Regulation part 20 ··· Shock absorption member 20A, 21A ··· Rotation axis 20B ··· Groove section 21 ··· Fin 21B, 21C ··· Contact part 22 ··· Top plate part 100 ··· Vehicle 101 ··· Control part 102 ··· Driving part 103 ··· Sensor 104 ··· Position information acquisition part 105 ··· Travel control part 106 ··· Travel driving part 200 ··· Groove 201, 202 ··· Deformation support part 203 ··· Protrusion 210 ··· Intermediate fin 211 ··· Protruding part 212 ··· Groove

Claims

1. A shock absorber that mitigates shock during operation, comprising: a shock-absorbing member having flexibility and attached to the base portion so as to be reversibly switchable between a stored state in which it is retracted to the side of the installation surface of the base portion and a protruding state in which it protrudes from the installation surface; an auxiliary member having flexibility and attached to the base portion so as to be reversibly switchable between a stored state in which it is retracted to the side of the installation surface and a protruding state in which it protrudes from the installation surface, in synchronization with the stored state and the protruding state of the shock-absorbing member; a drive unit that directly or indirectly drives the shock-absorbing member to switch the shock-absorbing member from at least the stored state to the protruding state when operating the shock-absorbing member and the auxiliary member; and the shock-absorbing member is rotatably attached around a first rotation axis extending in a first direction with respect to the installation surface of the base portion, and is reversibly switched between the stored state and the protruding state by being rotationally driven around the first rotation axis; the auxiliary member is rotatably attached around a second rotation axis extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction with respect to the installation surface, and is reversibly switched between the stored state and the protruding state by being rotationally driven around the second rotation axis; in the protruding state, the height from the base portion of the shock-absorbing member is higher than that of the auxiliary member; in the protruding state, at least a part of the shock-absorbing member and the auxiliary member face each other, and when the shock-absorbing member receives a load having a component in a direction opposite to the side of the installation surface of the base portion, the shock-absorbing member deforms and fits into the auxiliary member; a shock absorber.

2. The auxiliary member restricts the shock-absorbing member from rotating around the first rotation axis and switching to the stored state when the shock-absorbing member receives the load in the protruding state. The shock absorber according to claim 1.

3. The shock-absorbing member has a first groove formed at a position facing the auxiliary member in the protruding state and capable of fitting with a part of the auxiliary member; when the shock-absorbing member receives the load, at least a part of the shock-absorbing member deforms toward the auxiliary member, so that the first groove fits with a part of the auxiliary member; The shock absorber according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The auxiliary member is formed at a position facing the first groove in the protruding state and has a protruding portion protruding in the second direction. When the auxiliary member receives the load, the auxiliary member deforms in the first direction, so that the protruding portion fits into the first groove. The shock absorption device according to claim 3.

5. When the shock absorption member receives the load, a part of it deforms convexly in the predetermined second direction. When the auxiliary member receives the load, it deforms so as to sandwich the convexly deformed portion of the shock absorption member, and thus has a second groove that can fit with the shock absorption member. The shock absorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The shock absorption member has a deformation assisting portion formed along the first direction so as to preferentially deform in the second direction when receiving the load. The shock absorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The shock absorption member is more flexible than the auxiliary member. The shock absorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The shock absorption members are arranged in a plurality of rows with intervals in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. Each of the plurality of rows of shock absorption members is maintained in a lying posture along the installation surface in the storage state. When switching from the storage state to the protruding state, it is rotationally driven in a predetermined starting direction centered on the first rotation axis, and thus is switched from the lying posture to an upright posture standing up from the installation surface. When switching from the protruding state to the storage state, it is rotationally driven in a lying direction opposite to the starting direction centered on the first rotation axis, and thus is switched from the upright posture to the lying posture. The shock absorption device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The auxiliary member is arranged between each row of the plurality of rows of shock absorption members. In the storage state, a part of the shock absorption members in adjacent rows is maintained in a lying posture along the installation surface so that at least a part of the auxiliary member is covered from above. When switching from the storage state to the protruding state, it is rotationally driven in a predetermined starting direction centered on the second rotation axis, and thus is switched from the lying posture to an upright posture. When switching from the protruding state to the storage state, it is rotated and driven in the falling direction opposite to the starting direction around the second rotation axis, thereby switching from the standing posture to the falling posture. The shock absorber according to claim 8.

10. In the protruding state, the auxiliary member faces the shock absorption members in two adjacent columns on both sides. - Opposite to each other The shock absorber according to claim 9.

11. Further comprising one or a plurality of driving force transmission members that are connected to the auxiliary member and have flexibility at least in part, and are driven by the driving unit. When the driving unit operates the shock absorption member, the driving force transmission member is driven, so that the auxiliary member is switched from the falling posture to the standing posture, and the shock absorption member is switched from the falling posture to the standing posture along with the auxiliary member. The shock absorber according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

12. A plurality of the auxiliary members, A single driving force transmission member, Comprising A plurality of the auxiliary members are connected to the driving force transmission member. The shock absorber according to claim 11.

13. The driving force transmission member has a plate-like portion, and the plate-like portion is driven by the driving unit while maintaining a state parallel to the installation surface. The shock absorber according to claim 11 or claim 12.

14. The first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other. The shock absorber according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

Images