Steering device

Abstract

To provide a steering device capable of easily ensuring desired impact absorption performance.SOLUTION: A steering device 1 comprises a load absorption mechanism 15 which includes: a large-diameter shaft part 106d provided at an EA block 101; a guide plate 103 which has a long hole 140 provided at a housing and guiding the large-diameter shaft part 106d at the secondary collision and a resistance part overhanging into the long hole 140 and elastically deformed by the large-diameter shaft part 106d at secondary collision; and an EA guide 105 overlapping the guide plate 103 when viewed from the cross direction, provided at the guide plate 103 at the secondary collision and slidably at the EA block 101, and formed from a material with smaller friction coefficient than the EA block 101.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a steering device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART A steering device having an inner column that rotatably supports a steering shaft and an outer column that supports the inner column movably in the front-rear direction is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1 listed below).

[0003] This type of steering device is equipped with a configuration in which, when a predetermined load acts on the steering shaft, such as during a secondary collision, the inner column moves forward relative to the outer column (so-called collapse stroke), thereby mitigating the impact load applied to the driver. For example, in Patent Document 1 listed below, during a secondary collision, a guide protrusion provided on the inner column moves forward while widening a guide groove formed in the outer column. This generates sliding resistance between the guide protrusion and the inner circumferential surface of the guide groove, mitigating the impact load applied to the driver during a secondary collision. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-347243 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in a steering device, if sliding resistance occurs in an unexpected place during a secondary collision, the desired load fluctuation cannot be obtained, and it may be difficult to ensure the desired impact absorption performance.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a steering device that can easily ensure desired impact absorption performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present disclosure employs the following aspects. A steering device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a shaft support portion on which a steering shaft is supported so as to be rotatable about an axis along a front-rear direction, a housing supported by a vehicle body and supporting the shaft support portion so as to be movable in the front-rear direction, and a load absorbing mechanism disposed between the shaft support portion and the housing, wherein the load absorbing mechanism is provided on a sliding portion provided on a first member of the shaft support portion and the housing, and a second member of the shaft support portion and the housing, and is configured to absorb a load in response to a relative movement of the first member in the front-rear direction with respect to the second member in the event of a secondary collision. The vehicle also includes a guide plate having a guide hole that guides the sliding portion, and a resistance portion that protrudes into the guide hole and is plastically deformed by the sliding portion during the secondary collision, and a low-sliding member provided on one of the guide plate and the first member, in a state where the low-sliding member is overlapped on the guide plate and the first member in a radial direction that intersects the axis when viewed from the front-to-rear direction, and the low-sliding member is formed of a material that has a smaller coefficient of friction than the one member, and is configured to be able to slide on the other of the guide plate and the first member during the secondary collision.

[0008] According to this aspect, during a secondary collision, the low sliding resistance member slides on the other member, thereby reducing the sliding resistance generated between the first and second members compared to when the guide plate and the shaft support member slide. This allows the desired sliding resistance to be generated at a desired location (for example, between the resistance portion and the sliding portion). As a result, load fluctuations during a secondary collision can be stabilized, making it easier to ensure the desired impact absorption performance.

[0009] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that the low sliding member is provided on the first member and configured to be slidable on the guide plate. According to this aspect, during a secondary collision, the low sliding member slides on the guide plate, thereby reducing the sliding resistance that occurs between the first member and the second member compared to when the guide plate and the shaft support portion slide.

[0010] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that the first member is the shaft support portion, the second member is the housing, the shaft support portion includes a pipe that rotatably supports the steering shaft and a base portion that protrudes radially outward from the pipe, the sliding portion is fixed to the base portion in a state where it protrudes radially outward, the housing accommodates the base portion and has a slit that allows the base portion to move forward during the secondary collision, and the low sliding member includes a first reduction portion that is arranged between the guide plate and the base portion in the radial direction, and a second reduction portion that is arranged around the base portion and faces the inner surface of the slit. According to this aspect, during a secondary collision, the first reduction portion can reduce the sliding resistance generated between the base and the guide plate. During a secondary collision, the outer surface of the second reduction portion slides on the inner surface of the slit, thereby reducing the sliding resistance generated between the base and the housing compared to when the outer surface of the base slides on the inner surface of the slit. Furthermore, since the outer surface of the second reduction portion comes into contact with the inner surface of the slit, rotation around the axis of the shaft support portion can be suppressed during a secondary collision. This prevents the low sliding member from getting caught on the inner surface of the slit during a secondary collision, allowing for a smooth collapse stroke. During telescoping, the outer surface of the second lightening part slides on the inner surface of the slit, which reduces noise and sliding resistance that occurs during telescoping compared to when the outer surface of the base slides on the inner surface of the slit.

[0011] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that the low sliding member is formed in a frame shape when viewed from the radial direction, and the pedestal portion is fitted inside the low sliding member. According to this aspect, rattle and falling off of the low sliding member can be suppressed, and stable telescopic movement and collapse stroke can be achieved over a long period of time.

[0012] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that a recess portion located radially inward from the first reduction portion is formed in a portion of the low sliding member located rearward from the sliding portion. According to this aspect, it is possible to prevent deformation marks (burrs, etc.) generated when the sliding portion plastically deforms the resistance portion from coming into contact with the low sliding member, thereby preventing the deformation marks from interfering with the collapse stroke.

[0013] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that the low sliding member is provided on the guide plate and configured to be slidable on the first member. According to this aspect, during a secondary collision, the low-sliding member slides on the shaft support portion, thereby reducing the sliding resistance that occurs between the first member and the second member compared to when the guide plate and the shaft support portion slide.

[0014] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that the steering device further comprises a telescopic mechanism that is provided between the load absorbing mechanism and the housing and that moves the load absorbing mechanism and the shaft support portion in the fore-and-aft direction relative to the housing, and the telescopic mechanism further comprises an actuator connected to the housing, and a feed mechanism that has an engaging portion connected to the actuator and an engaged portion connected to the load absorbing mechanism and that engages with the engaging portion in the fore-and-aft direction, and that transmits the driving force of the actuator to the shaft support portion via the engaging portion and the engaged portion. According to this aspect, in the event of a secondary collision, the engaging portion and the engaged portion come into contact, restricting the forward / rearward movement of the feed mechanism relative to the actuator. This prevents the guide plate from moving forward together with the feed mechanism in the event of a secondary collision. This effectively generates a load between the resistance portion and the sliding portion. As a result, the desired impact absorption performance can be ensured.

[0015] In the steering device of the above aspect, it is preferable that a regulating member is provided in a portion of the sliding portion that is located on the opposite side of the first member in the radial direction, overlapping the guide plate in the radial direction and regulating radial movement of the guide plate relative to the sliding portion. According to this aspect, when the load acting between the sliding portion and the resistance portion increases during a secondary collision, the guide plate is pushed outward in the radial direction by the sliding portion. As a result, the sliding portion of the guide plate attempts to disengage from the guide hole. At this time, the guide plate comes into contact with the restricting member. This restricts the guide plate from moving outward in the radial direction relative to the housing. As a result, the sliding portion is prevented from disengaging from the guide plate, and the energy absorbed by the load absorption mechanism can be stabilized throughout the entire collapse stroke. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to each of the above aspects, it is possible to ensure the desired impact absorption performance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a steering device according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line II-II in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to line III-III in FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is an exploded perspective view of a steering device according to a first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an EA block and an EA guide according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line VI-VI in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a view taken along arrow VII in FIG. 3. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation of the steering device according to the first embodiment at the time of a secondary collision. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a bottom view corresponding to FIG. 7 of the steering device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 6 in a steering device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line XI-XI in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Next, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments and modifications described below, corresponding components will be designated by the same reference numerals, and their description may be omitted. In the following description, expressions indicating relative or absolute arrangements, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "center," and "coaxial," not only strictly indicate such arrangements, but also indicate a state in which the components are relatively displaced by an angle or distance to such an extent that tolerances or the same functions are obtained.

[0019] (First embodiment) [Steering device 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a steering device 1. FIG. 1, a steering device 1 is mounted on a vehicle. The steering device 1 adjusts the steering angle of wheels in response to a rotational operation of a steering wheel 2.

[0020] The steering device 1 includes a housing 11, a pipe (shaft support portion) 12, a steering shaft 13, a drive mechanism 14, and a load absorbing mechanism 15. The pipe 12 and the steering shaft 13 are each formed in a cylindrical shape extending along an axis O1. Therefore, in the following description, the direction in which the axis O1 of the pipe 12 and the steering shaft 13 extends will sometimes be simply referred to as the shaft axial direction, the direction perpendicular to the axis O1 will sometimes be referred to as the shaft radial direction, and the direction around the axis O1 will sometimes be referred to as the shaft circumferential direction.

[0021] The steering device 1 of this embodiment is mounted on a vehicle with its axis O1 intersecting the front-to-rear direction. Specifically, the axis O1 of the steering device 1 extends upward as it moves rearward. For convenience, in the following description, in the steering device 1, the direction toward the steering wheel 2 in the shaft axial direction will be simply referred to as the rear, and the direction away from the steering wheel 2 will be simply referred to as the forward direction (arrow FR). Furthermore, among the shaft radial directions, the up-down direction when the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle will be simply referred to as the up-down direction (arrow UP indicates the up direction), and the left-right direction will be simply referred to as the left-right direction (arrow LH indicates the left side).

[0022] <Housing 11> FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the housing 11 includes a tilt bracket 21 and a housing main body 22. Tilt bracket 21 is formed in a U-shape that opens downward when viewed from the front and rear. Tilt bracket 21 includes a pair of left and right side frames 23a, 23b, mounting stays 24 formed on each of side frames 23a, 23b, and a bridge portion 25 that bridges between side frames 23a, 23b. As shown in FIG. 1, the side frames 23a, 23b extend in the front-rear direction while facing each other in the left-right direction.

[0023] The mounting stays 24 extend outward in the left-right direction from the upper ends of the side frames 23a, 23b. The housing 11 is supported by the vehicle body via the mounting stays 24. 2, the bridging portion 25 bridges the upper ends of the side frames 23a, 23b together, and is provided at both front and rear ends of the side frames 23a, 23b.

[0024] The housing body 22 is disposed inside the tilt bracket 21. The housing body 22 has a holding cylinder 31 and a front extension 32.

[0025] The retaining tube 31 extends in the shaft axial direction (front-rear direction). A front bearing 35 is fitted (press-fitted) into the front end portion of the retaining tube 31. A slit 36 ​​that opens downward is formed in the lower portion of the retaining tube 31. The slit 36 ​​extends in the front-rear direction behind the front bearing 35.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 3, protruding walls (a first protruding wall 38 and a second protruding wall 39) are formed on the opening edge of the slit 36 ​​in the retaining tube 31. The first protruding wall 38 protrudes downward from the right opening edge of the opening edge of the slit 36. The first protruding wall 38 extends in the front-rear direction along the right opening edge of the slit 36. The second protruding wall 39 protrudes downward from the left opening edge of the opening edge of the slit 36. The second protruding wall 39 extends in the front-rear direction along the left opening edge of the slit 36. The second protruding wall 39 is formed with a recess 39a that opens downward.

[0027] 1, the front extension 32 protrudes forward from the retaining tube 31. The front extension 32 is formed in a U-shape that opens downward when viewed from the front. The front extension 32 is connected to opposing side frames 23a, 23b of the tilt bracket 21 via pivot shafts 40. This allows the housing main body 22 to be supported by the tilt bracket 21 rotatably around the pivot shafts 40 (around an axis O2 extending in the left-right direction).

[0028] <Pipe 12> The pipe 12 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending in the shaft axial direction. The pipe 12 is inserted into a retaining cylinder 31. The pipe 12 is configured to be movable in the shaft axial direction relative to the retaining cylinder 31. As shown in FIG. 2, a rear bearing 41 is fitted (press-fitted) into the rear end of the pipe 12.

[0029] <Steering shaft 13> The steering shaft 13 includes an inner shaft 42 and an outer shaft 43 . The inner shaft 42 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending in the shaft axial direction. The inner shaft 42 is inserted into the pipe 12. The rear end of the inner shaft 42 is press-fitted into a rear bearing 41 inside the pipe 12. This allows the inner shaft 42 to be rotatable around the axis O1 inside the pipe 12. The steering wheel 2 is connected to a portion of the inner shaft 42 that protrudes rearward from the pipe 12. The inner shaft 42 may be solid.

[0030] The outer shaft 43 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending in the shaft axial direction. The outer shaft 43 is inserted into the pipe 12. The inner shaft 42 is inserted into the rear end of the outer shaft 43 within the pipe 12. The front end of the outer shaft 43 is press-fitted into the front bearing 35 within the retaining cylinder 31. As a result, the outer shaft 43 is supported within the retaining cylinder 31 so as to be rotatable around the axis O1.

[0031] The inner shaft 42 and the pipe 12 are configured to be movable in the shaft axial direction relative to the outer shaft 43 and the housing 11. For example, a male spline is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft 42. The male spline engages with a female spline formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer shaft 43. As a result, the inner shaft 42 is restricted from rotating relative to the outer shaft 43, and is allowed to move in the shaft axial direction relative to the outer shaft 43. However, the telescopic structure of the steering shaft 13 and the rotation restriction structure can be modified as appropriate. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the outer shaft 43 is disposed forward of the inner shaft 42 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the outer shaft 43 may be disposed rearward of the inner shaft 42.

[0032] <Drive mechanism 14> 1, the drive mechanism 14 includes a tilt mechanism 45 and a telescopic mechanism 46. The tilt mechanism 45 is disposed, for example, on the left side of the housing 11. The telescopic mechanism 46 is disposed, for example, on the right side of the housing 11. The steering device 1 may not include the drive mechanism 14, or may include either the tilt mechanism 45 or the telescopic mechanism 46 of the drive mechanism 14.

[0033] The tilt mechanism 45 is a so-called feed screw mechanism. The tilt mechanism 45 includes a tilt motor unit 51, a tilt connecting portion 52, and a tilt movable portion 53. The tilt mechanism 45 switches between restricting and allowing rotation of the steering device 1 around the axis O2 by driving the tilt motor unit 51. The tilt motor unit 51 is attached to the front end of the side frame 23a in a state where it protrudes outward in the left-right direction from the side frame 23a.

[0034] The tilt connector 52 includes a tilt wire 61, a tilt shaft 62, and a tilt coupling 63 that connects the tilt wire 61 and the tilt shaft 62 together. The tilt coupling 63 is supported by the side frame 23a so as to be rotatable about an axis extending in the left-right direction.

[0035] The tilt wire 61 spans between the tilt motor unit 51 and the tilt coupling 63. The tilt wire 61 is configured to be rotatable in response to the driving of the tilt motor 56. The tilt wire 61 is configured to be able to flexibly deform. The connecting member that connects the tilt gear box 55 and the tilt coupling 63 is not limited to one that flexibly deforms like the tilt wire 61. Tilt shaft 62 spans between tilt coupling 63 and tilt movable part 53. Tilt shaft 62 rotates together with tilt wire 61 as tilt motor unit 51 is driven. A male thread is formed on the outer circumferential surface of tilt shaft 62.

[0036] The tilt movable portion 53 includes a link member 70 and a tilt nut 71. The link member 70 is formed in a U-shape that opens upward. The link member 70 is connected to both the tilt bracket 21 and the housing main body 22. Specifically, the front end of the link member 70 is rotatably connected to the tilt bracket 21 (side frames 23a, 23b). The rear end of the link member 70 is rotatably connected to the housing main body 22 (retaining cylinder 31). As a result, the link member 70 is configured to be rotatable about an axis that runs along the left-right direction between the tilt bracket 21 and the housing main body 22.

[0037] Tilt nut 71 is attached to the lower part of link member 70, facing outward in the left-right direction (left side). An internal thread is formed on the inner peripheral surface of tilt nut 71. Tilt nut 71 is engaged with tilt shaft 62. Tilt nut 71 is configured so that its position on tilt shaft 62 can be changed as tilt shaft 62 rotates.

[0038] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the steering device 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the telescopic mechanism 46 is a so-called feed screw mechanism. The telescopic mechanism 46 includes a telescopic motor unit (actuator) 81, a telescopic coupling portion 82, and a telescopic movable portion (feed mechanism) 83. The telescopic mechanism 46 switches between restricting and allowing the forward and backward movement of the pipe 12 (steering shaft 13) relative to the housing 11 by driving the telescopic motor unit 81. The telescopic motor unit 81 is attached to the front extension portion 32 in a state where it protrudes outward in the left-right direction. Therefore, the telescopic motor unit 81 is configured to be rotatable about the axis O2 integrally with the housing main body 22 by the driving force of the tilt mechanism 45. However, the telescopic motor unit 81 may also be supported by the tilt bracket 21 via a wire or the like.

[0039] 4, the telescopic coupling part 82 extends rearward from the telescopic motor unit 81. The telescopic coupling part 82 rotates about its axis as the telescopic motor unit 81 is driven. A male thread part (engagement part) 82a is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the telescopic coupling part 82.

[0040] The telescopic movable part 83 is connected to the pipe 12 via the load absorbing mechanism 15. A female threaded part (engaged part) 83a is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the telescopic movable part 83. The male threaded part 82a of the telescopic connecting part 82 meshes with the telescopic movable part 83. The telescopic movable part 83 engages with the telescopic connecting part 82 in the front-rear direction via the female threaded part 83a and the male threaded part 82a. The telescopic movable part 83 is configured to be movable on the telescopic connecting part 82 as the telescopic connecting part 82 rotates.

[0041] <Load absorption mechanism 15> As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the load absorption mechanism 15 connects the telescopic movable part 83 and the pipe 12. During telescopic operation, etc. (when the load acting on the pipe 12 in the front-rear direction is less than a predetermined value), the load absorption mechanism 15 transmits the driving force of the telescopic mechanism 46 to the pipe 12, and moves the pipe 12 together with the telescopic movable part 83 in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 11. On the other hand, during a secondary collision, etc. (when the load acting on the pipe 12 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value), the load absorption mechanism 15 moves the pipe 12 forward relative to the housing 11 independently of the telescopic mechanism 46. Specifically, the load absorption mechanism 15 includes an EA (Energy Absorbing) block (shaft support part) 101, an EA bolt 102, an EA plate (guide plate) 103, an EA cover 104, and an EA guide 105.

[0042] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the EA block 101 and the EA guide 105. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line VI-VI in Fig. 3. 5 and 6, the EA block 101 is integrally formed from carbon steel such as SS400. The EA block 101 is fixed facing downward to the front of the pipe 12. Specifically, the EA block 101 includes a fitting portion 110 and a base portion 111. The fitting portion 110 is fitted into a through hole 109 (see FIG. 6) provided in the pipe 12. The surface of the fitting portion 110 facing inward in the shaft radial direction is formed into a curved surface that extends along the inner circumferential surface of the pipe 12.

[0043] The base portion 111 is connected to the lower part of the fitting portion 110. The base portion 111 is formed in a rectangular shape whose planar outer shape, as viewed from the top-bottom direction, is larger than that of the fitting portion 110. The lower surface of the base portion 111 is formed as a flat surface perpendicular to the shaft radial direction. The base portion 111 is disposed so as to protrude downward from the pipe 12. The base portion 111 is exposed to the outside of the housing main body 22 through the slit 36. In the example of FIG. 3 , the lower surface of the base portion 111 is located below the protruding walls 38 and 39. The EA block 101 is fixed to the pipe 12, for example, by welding to the pipe 12 at the boundary between the fitting portion 110 and the base portion 111. However, the method of fixing the EA block 101 to the pipe 12 can be changed as appropriate.

[0044] 3 and 6, the EA block 101 is formed with mounting holes 113 that penetrate the EA block 101 in the shaft radial direction. Two mounting holes 113 are lined up in the left-right direction. In the following explanation, the details of the mounting holes 113 will be described using one of the mounting holes 113 as an example.

[0045] The mounting hole 113 is a stepped hole having a small diameter portion 113a and a large diameter portion 113b. The small diameter portion 113a is formed in the EA block 101 so as to straddle the fitting portion 110 and the seat portion 111. An internal thread portion is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the small diameter portion 113a. The large diameter portion 113b has an inner diameter larger than that of the small diameter portion 113a. The large diameter portion 113b is connected to the small diameter portion 113a on the outer side in the shaft radial direction. The large diameter portion 113b opens on the lower surface of the base portion 111. A hole step surface 113c connecting the large diameter portion 113b and the small diameter portion 113a is formed as a flat surface that intersects (for example, is perpendicular to) the shaft radial direction.

[0046] The EA bolts 102 are fastened individually to the mounting holes 113 while protruding downward from the base portion 111. The EA bolts 102 are made of a material that is harder than the EA block 101. The EA bolts 102 are so-called stepped bolts. The shank 102a of the EA bolt 102 includes a small diameter shank 106b located at the tip end, and a large diameter shank (sliding portion) 106d that continues to the base end of the small diameter shank 106b via a bolt step surface 106c.

[0047] The small diameter shaft portion 106b has an outer circumferential surface formed with a male screw portion, and is fastened to the small diameter portion 113a of the EA block 101. The bolt step surface 106c projects annularly from the base end edge of the small diameter shank portion 106b outward in the radial direction (bolt radial direction) of the EA bolt 102. When the small diameter shank portion 106b is fastened to the small diameter portion 113a, the bolt step surface 106c is in close proximity to or in contact with the hole step surface 113c. The EA bolt 102 is positioned in the up-down direction relative to the EA block 101 by the bolt step surface 106c abutting against the hole step surface 113c.

[0048] The large diameter shaft portion 106d protrudes downward from the EA block 101 with its upper end housed within the large diameter portion 113b. The large diameter shaft portion 106d is cylindrical and arranged coaxially with the small diameter shaft portion 106b. The upper end of the large diameter shaft portion 106d is surrounded by the large diameter portion 113b. The outer peripheral surface of the large diameter shaft portion 106d abuts against the inner peripheral surface of the large diameter portion 113b, thereby restricting radial displacement (tilting) of the EA bolt 102 during a secondary collision or telescopic movement. In the illustrated example, the amount of protrusion of the large diameter shaft portion 106d from the underside of the base portion 111 is greater than the dimension of the portion housed within the large diameter portion 113b.

[0049] The head (restriction member) 102b of the EA bolt 102 projects outward in the radial direction of the bolt from the base end of the large diameter shaft portion 106d.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the EA plate 103 includes a main plate 130 and a sub-plate 131. The main plate 130 is formed in a crank shape when viewed from the front and rear. The main plate 130 is formed from a material (such as SPHC) that has a lower hardness than the EA bolt 102. Specifically, the main plate 130 includes an attachment piece 132, an operating piece 134, and a support piece 135.

[0051] The attachment piece 132 is attached from above to the telescopic movable portion 83. That is, the EA plate 103 is configured to be movable forward and backward integrally with the telescopic movable portion 83. The operating piece 134 extends inward in the left-right direction from the lower end edge of the mounting piece 132. The operating piece 134 is disposed below the pipe 12. Specifically, the rear end of the operating piece 134 overlaps with the EA bolt 102 in a plan view. The operating piece 134 has elongated holes (a first elongated hole 140 and a second elongated hole 141) formed therein.

[0052] The support piece 135 extends upward from the edge of the operating piece 134 located on the opposite side from the connecting piece 133. The upper end of the support piece 135 is housed in the recess 39a. A guide rail 144 is provided in the recess 39a. The guide rail 144 is formed in a U-shape that opens downward and extends in the front-rear direction within the recess 39a. The guide rail 144 is fitted into the recess 39a. The guide rail 144 is made of a material (e.g., a resin material) that has a lower coefficient of friction than the inner surface of the recess 39a. The support piece 135 is housed inside the guide rail 144. In other words, the guide rail 144 restricts left-right movement of the main plate 130 (EA plate 103) relative to the housing body 22 while guiding movement in the front-rear direction.

[0053] The sub-plate 131 connects the telescopic movable part 83 and the operating piece 134. Specifically, the outer left-right end of the sub-plate 131 is attached to the telescopic movable part 83 from below. That is, the sub-plate 131 sandwiches the telescopic movable part 83 in the up-down direction between itself and the attachment piece 132. The inner left-right end of the sub-plate 131 is connected to the operating piece 134.

[0054] FIG. 7 is a view taken along the arrow VII in FIG. 7, the above-mentioned long holes (guide holes) 140, 141 penetrate the operating piece 134 in the up-down direction and extend in the front-rear direction. The long holes 140, 141 are formed symmetrically in a plan view. The portion of the operating piece 134 located between the long holes 140, 141 constitutes an extending portion 150 extending in the front-rear direction. The extending portion 150 includes a front constricted portion 151, a rear constricted portion 152, and a wide portion 153. The front constricted portion 151 is located at the front end of the extending portion 150. The front constricted portion 151 is recessed inward in the left-right direction relative to the wide portion 153. The rear constricted portion 152 is located at the rear end of the extending portion 150. The rear constricted portion 152 is recessed inward in the left-right direction relative to the wide portion 153. The left-right width of each of the constricted portions 151, 152 is set to be equal to or less than the distance L1 between the EA bolts 102 (large diameter shaft portions 106d). Note that the front constricted portion 151 is not an essential component.

[0055] An EA bolt 102 is disposed in the rear end portion (a portion corresponding to the rear constricted portion 152) of each of the elongated holes 140, 141. The EA bolt 102 is inserted into each of the elongated holes 140, 141 from below and then fastened to the EA block 101. During a secondary collision, the EA bolt 102 is guided along the elongated holes 140, 141 as it moves forward relative to the EA plate 103. As shown in FIG. 6 , when the EA bolt 102 is fastened to the EA block 101, the large-diameter shank 106d is disposed in the elongated holes 140, 141. When the EA bolt 102 is fastened to the EA block 101, the head 102b overlaps the EA plate 103 in a plan view, with a gap S between the head 102b and the EA plate 103. Specifically, the head 102b overlaps the periphery of the elongated holes 140, 141 of the EA plate 103 (operating piece 134).

[0056] As shown in FIG. 7 , the width L2 of the wide portion 153 in the left-right direction is set to be larger than the distance L1 between the EA bolts 102 (large diameter shaft portions 106d). Portions of the wide portion 153 that bulge outward in the left-right direction relative to the constricted portions 151, 152 constitute resistance portions 155 that protrude into the elongated holes 140, 141. The resistance portions 155 overlap with the inner ends of the EA bolts 102 (large diameter shaft portions 106d) in the left-right direction in a front view. The resistance portions 155 are configured to be plastically deformable when the large diameter shaft portions 106d slide when a predetermined load is applied forward to the pipe 12, such as during a secondary collision. The resistance portions 155 are non-deformable when the load acting on the EA block 101 via the pipe 12 is less than a predetermined value (for example, during telescopic movement). That is, when the load acting on the pipe 12 is less than a predetermined value, the EA bolts 102 are fitted into the elongated holes 140, 141 (rear constricted portions 152), and the relative movement of the EA block 101 with respect to the EA plate 103 is restricted.

[0057] The portion of the operating piece 134 that is located on the opposite side (outside in the left-right direction) of the extending portion 150 with respect to each of the elongated holes 140, 141 constitutes a guide 156 that extends in the front-rear direction. The guide 156 is located outside in the left-right direction with respect to each of the EA bolts 102, and restricts outward displacement of each of the EA bolts 102 in the left-right direction.

[0058] 3 and 4, the EA cover 104 restricts downward movement of the EA plate 103 relative to the housing main body 22 (EA bolt 102). The EA cover 104 is disposed in the lower part of the housing main body 22, on the opposite side (left side) from the telescopic mechanism 46 with respect to the axis O1. The EA cover 104 covers a portion of the EA plate 103 from below.

[0059] The EA cover 104 includes a regulating plate 161 and a sliding plate 162 . The regulating plate 161 is formed of a material (e.g., a metal material) that is more rigid than the sliding plate 162. The regulating plate 161 extends in the front-rear direction with its thickness in the up-down direction. The regulating plate 161 includes an overlapping piece 161a and an attachment piece 161b.

[0060] The overlapping piece 161a extends in the front-rear direction below the second protruding wall 39. The overlapping piece 161a overlaps the left end portion (the end portion opposite the telescopic mechanism 46) of the operating piece 134 from below. In the example shown in the figure, the overlapping piece 161a overlaps the guide 156 on the left side of the extension portion 150. The dimension of the overlapping piece 161a in the front-rear direction is longer than that of the EA plate 103 (operating piece 134).

[0061] The mounting piece 161b protrudes outward in the left-right direction and forward from the overlapping piece 161a. The mounting piece 161b is fixed to the housing main body 22 in a portion that is out of the movement path of the EA plate 104 during telescopic movement. The mounting piece 161b is fixed to the housing main body 22 by, for example, a bolt.

[0062] The sliding plate 162 overlaps the upper surface of the overlapping piece 161a. The sliding plate 162 is made of a material (for example, a resin material) having a smaller coefficient of friction than the regulating plate 161. The sliding plate 162 is fixed to the overlapping piece 161a. The sliding plate 162 may be fixed by press-fitting a pin into the overlapping piece 161a or the like, or by engaging a pin with a barbed claw with the overlapping piece 161a or the like, or by adhesive or the like.

[0063] The sliding plate 162 is located between the overlapping piece 161a and the operating piece 134. The upper surface of the sliding plate 162 is close to or in contact with the lower surface of the operating piece 134. The EA cover 104 may be configured without the sliding plate 162.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 4 , the EA guide 105 is disposed between the EA block 101 and the housing main body 22, and between the EA block 101 and the EA plate 103. The EA guide 105 reduces sliding resistance during telescopic movement or a secondary collision. The EA guide 105 is made of a material having a friction coefficient at least smaller than that of the EA block 101. As such a material, the EA guide 105 of this embodiment is integrally formed of a resin material (e.g., POM or PA66). Note that the EA guide 105 can be made of a material other than resin as long as it has a smaller friction coefficient than the EA block 101, e.g., a material having a lower hardness than the EA block 101, the EA bolt 102, and the EA plate 103.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, the EA guide 105 includes a frame portion 171, a side protruding portion (second lightening portion) 172, and a lower protruding portion (first lightening portion) 173. As shown in FIGS. The frame 171 is formed in the shape of a rectangular frame that surrounds the periphery of the EA block 101 (base 111). The frame 171 includes side rails 171a located on both left and right sides of the base 111, front rails 171b that connect the front ends of the side rails 171a in front of the base 111, and rear rails 171c that connect the rear ends of the side rails 171a in the rear of the base 111. The corners of the frame 171 (boundaries between the rails 171a to 171c) are rounded.

[0066] Of the frame portion 171, the front portions of the side rail portions 171a and the front rail portion 171b protrude downward from the lower surface of the base portion 111. A recess 171d is formed in the frame portion 171 in a portion extending from the rear of the side rail portion 171a to the rear rail portion 171c. The recess 171d is formed such that the vertical height of the portion extending from the rear of the side rail portion 171a to the rear rail portion 171c is lower than that of the front rail portion 171b. Specifically, the recess 171d is formed by forming a sloped surface that extends upward from the rear of the side rail portion 171a to the rear rail portion 171c toward the rear. Therefore, the lower edge of the rear rail portion 171c is located at the uppermost position among the lower edges of the frame portion 171. In the illustrated example, the lower edge of the rear rail portion 171c is flush with the lower surface of the EA block 101 or is located higher than the lower surface of the EA block 101. Note that the recess 171d is not limited to a sloped surface and may be formed in a stepped shape or the like as long as it is located higher than the front rail portion 171b. Furthermore, the recess 171d is not an essential component.

[0067] 3 and 5, the lateral projections 172 project outward in the left-right direction from the front outer surfaces of the side rails 171a. The lateral projections 172 are close to or in contact with the inner surfaces of the slits 36 in the left-right direction. The lateral projections 172 are configured to be slidable along the inner surfaces of the slits 36 when the EA guide 105 moves in the front-rear direction within the slits 36.

[0068] 5 and 7, the rear outer surface of the side rail 171a is located inside the lateral projection 172 in the left-right direction. Therefore, a gap P is formed between the rear outer surface of the side rail 171a and the inner surface of the slit 36, preventing contact between the EA guide 105 and the inner surface of the slit 36. The rear end of the side projection 172 extends inward in the left-right direction toward the rear, and forms an inclined surface that is continuous with the rear outer surface of the side rail 171a. However, the side projection 172 may be formed over the entire front-rear direction relative to the side rail 171a.

[0069] 5 and 6, the lower overhang 173 overhangs from the front of the side rail 171a and the front rail 171b toward the inside of the frame 171. Specifically, the lower overhang 173 overlaps the lower surface of the EA block 101 in a plan view. The lower overhang 173, the side overhang 172, the front of the side rail 171a, and the upper surface of the front rail 171b form a sliding surface 176 that is close to or in contact with the upper surface of the operating piece 134. The sliding surface 176 is located between the lower surface of the base 111 and the upper surface of the operating piece 134, and is provided so as to be able to slide on the upper surface of the operating piece 134 during a secondary collision.

[0070] [Effect] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the above-mentioned steering device 1. In the following description, tilt operation, telescopic operation, and collapse stroke at the time of a secondary collision will be mainly described.

[0071] <Tilt operation> As shown in FIG. 1, in a tilt operation, the driving force of the tilt motor unit 51 is transmitted to the housing main body 22 via the link member 70, causing the housing main body 22 to rotate about the axis O2. Specifically, when adjusting the steering wheel 2 upward, the tilt motor unit 51 is driven, causing the tilt wire 61 and the tilt shaft 62 to rotate, for example, in a first direction (the direction in which the tilt nut 71 loosens). When the tilt shaft 62 rotates in the first direction, the tilt nut 71 moves rearward relative to the tilt shaft 62. As the tilt nut 71 moves rearward, the housing main body 22 rotates upward about the axis O2 relative to the tilt bracket 21. As a result, the steering wheel 2 rotates upward about the axis O2 together with the housing main body 22, the pipe 12, the steering shaft 13, etc.

[0072] On the other hand, when adjusting the steering wheel 2 downward, the tilt shaft 62 is rotated in the second direction (the direction in which the tilt nut 71 is tightened). This causes the tilt nut 71 to move forward relative to the tilt shaft 62. As the tilt nut 71 moves forward, the housing main body 22 rotates downward about the axis O2 relative to the tilt bracket 21. As a result, the steering wheel 2 rotates downward about the axis O2 together with the housing main body 22, the pipe 12, the steering shaft 13, etc.

[0073] <Telescopic movement> In the telescopic operation, the driving force of the telescopic motor unit is transmitted to the pipe 12 via the EA plate 103 and the EA block 101, causing the pipe 12 and the inner shaft 42 to move back and forth relative to the housing 11 and the outer shaft 43. Specifically, when the steering wheel 2 is moved rearward, the telescopic coupling part 82 is rotated, for example, in a first direction (a direction in which the telescopic movable part 83 loosens) by driving the telescopic motor unit 81. When the telescopic coupling part 82 rotates in the first direction, the telescopic movable part 83 and the EA plate 103 move rearward relative to the telescopic coupling part 82. The driving force of the EA plate 103 is transmitted to the EA bolts 102. At this time, with each EA bolt 102 fitted in the rear constricted part 152, the relative movement of the EA bolts 102 with respect to the EA plate 103 is restricted. Therefore, the driving force of the EA bolt 102 is transmitted to the pipe 12 via the EA block 101. As a result, the pipe 12 moves rearward together with the inner shaft 42, and the steering wheel 2 moves rearward.

[0074] On the other hand, when the steering wheel 2 is moved forward, the telescopic coupling part 82 is rotated, for example, in the second direction. When the telescopic coupling part 82 rotates in the second direction (the direction in which the telescopic movable part 83 is tightened), the telescopic movable part 83 and the EA plate 103 move forward relative to the telescopic coupling part 82. As the EA plate 103 moves forward, the driving force of the EA plate 103 is transmitted to the pipe 12 via the EA bolt 102 and the EA block 101. As a result, the pipe 12 moves forward, and the steering wheel 2 moves forward.

[0075] <Secondary collision> Next, the operation at the time of a secondary collision will be described. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, during a secondary collision (when the collision load is equal to or greater than a predetermined value), the steering wheel 2 moves forward relative to the housing main body 22 and outer shaft 43 together with the pipe 12, EA block 101, EA bolt 102, and inner shaft 42.

[0076] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the operation at the time of a secondary collision. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, in the event of a secondary collision, a forward collision load acts on the pipe 12 via the steering wheel 2. At this time, the collision load acts on the EA plate 103 via the EA block 101 and the EA bolt 102. However, in this embodiment, the female thread portion 83a of the telescopic movable portion 83 and the male thread portion 82a of the telescopic coupling portion 82 are engaged in the front-rear direction, so the forward movement of the EA plate 103 relative to the housing 11 is restricted. Therefore, the steering shaft 13, the pipe 12, the EA block 101, and the EA bolt 102 tend to move forward relative to the EA plate 103 and the housing 11.

[0077] In this embodiment, the distance L1 between the large diameter shanks 106d of the EA bolts 102 is narrower than the width L2 of the wide portion 153. Therefore, the EA bolts 102 move forward relative to the EA plate 103 while squeezing the extension portion 150 with the large diameter shanks 106d. Specifically, when the large diameter shanks 106d slide on the outer surface of the wide portion 153, they plastically deform (crush) the resistance portion 155 inward in the left-right direction. In this way, during the process in which the steering shaft 13 and the like move forward relative to the EA plate 103 and the housing 11, the load generated when the large diameter shanks 106d squeeze the extension portion 150 reduces the impact load applied to the driver in the event of a secondary collision.

[0078] The load generated between the EA bolt 102 and the EA plate 103 can be adjusted by changing the difference between the distance L1 between the large diameter shaft portions 106d and the width L2 of the wide portion 153, or by changing the thickness of the wide portion 153. During a secondary collision, in addition to the load generated when the large diameter shaft portions 106d squeeze the extension portion 150, the impact load may be alleviated by, for example, sliding resistance between the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 12 and the inner peripheral surface of the retaining tube 31. The sliding portion between the outer peripheral surface of the pipe 12 and the inner peripheral surface of the retaining tube 31 may be coated with paint having a high friction coefficient or may be textured.

[0079] In this embodiment, the EA guide 105 (sliding surface 176) made of a material with a smaller friction coefficient than the EA block 101 is provided between the EA block 101 and the EA plate 103. According to this configuration, in the event of a secondary collision, the sliding surface 176 slides on the upper surface of the operating piece 134, thereby reducing the sliding resistance generated between the EA block (one member) 101 and the EA plate (the other member) 103, compared to when the EA block (one member) 101 and the EA plate (the other member) 103 slide. This allows a desired sliding resistance to be generated at a desired location (for example, between the resistance portion 155 and the large diameter shaft portion 106d). As a result, load fluctuations in the event of a secondary collision can be stabilized, making it easier to ensure the desired impact absorption performance.

[0080] In this embodiment, the EA guide 105 is configured to include a sliding surface 176 arranged between the EA plate 103 and the base portion 111, and a lateral protrusion portion 172 that faces the inner surface of the slit 36 ​​around the base portion 111. According to this configuration, during a secondary collision, the sliding resistance generated between the EA block 101 and the sliding surface 176 can be reduced by the sliding surface 176 as described above. During a secondary collision, the outer surface of the lateral protrusion 172 slides on the inner surface of the slit 36, thereby reducing the sliding resistance generated between the EA block 101 and the housing main body 22 compared to when the outer surface of the EA block 101 slides on the inner surface of the slit 36. Moreover, since the outer surface of the lateral protrusion 172 comes into contact with the inner surface of the slit 36, rotation of the pipe 12 about the axis O1 can be suppressed during a secondary collision. This prevents the EA guide 105 from getting caught on the inner surface of the slit 36 ​​during a secondary collision, allowing for a smooth collapse stroke. On the other hand, even during telescopic movement, the outer surface of the lateral protrusion 172 slides on the inner surface of the slit 36. This reduces abnormal noise and sliding resistance that occurs during telescopic movement compared to when the outer surface of the EA block 101 slides on the inner surface of the slit 36. In particular, in this embodiment, the sliding surface 176 and the lateral protrusion 172 are formed integrally with the EA guide 105, which allows for a simplified configuration and reduced costs.

[0081] In this embodiment, the pedestal portion 111 is fitted inside the EA guide 105. This configuration can prevent rattling or falling off of the EA guide 105, and can achieve stable telescopic movement and collapse stroke over a long period of time.

[0082] In this embodiment, the EA guide 105 has a recess 171d located above the sliding surface 176 formed in a portion located rearward of the EA bolt 102. This configuration can prevent deformation marks (burrs, etc.) generated when the large diameter shaft portion 106d squeezes the extension portion 150 from coming into contact with the EA guide 105. This can prevent the deformation marks from interfering with the collapse stroke.

[0083] In this embodiment, the configuration includes a telescopic connecting portion 82 connected to the telescopic motor unit 81, and a telescopic movable portion 83 connected to the EA plate 103 and having a female threaded portion 83a that engages with the male threaded portion 82a of the telescopic connecting portion 82 in the front-to-rear direction, and transmits the driving force of the telescopic motor unit 81 to the shaft support portion (EA block 101 or pipe 12) via the male threaded portion 82a and the female threaded portion 83a. According to this configuration, in the event of a secondary collision, the male thread portion 82a of the telescopic connector 82 comes into contact with the female thread portion 83a of the telescopic movable portion 83, thereby restricting forward movement of the telescopic movable portion 83 relative to the telescopic connector 82. This makes it possible to prevent the EA plate 103 from moving forward together with the telescopic connector 82 in the event of a secondary collision. Therefore, a load can be effectively generated between the extension portion 150 and the large diameter shaft portion 106d. As a result, the desired impact absorption performance can be ensured.

[0084] In this embodiment, an EA cover 104 is provided which overlaps the EA plate 103 in the vertical direction and restricts downward movement of the EA bolt 102. According to this configuration, when the load acting between the large diameter shaft portion 106d and the extension portion 150 increases during a secondary collision, the EA plate 103 is pushed downward by each large diameter shaft portion 106d. As a result, the large diameter shaft portion 106d of the EA plate 103 attempts to separate from the elongated holes 140, 141. At this time, the operating piece 134 comes into contact with the EA cover 104 via the sliding plate 162. This restricts downward movement of the EA plate 103 relative to the housing main body 22 (large diameter shaft portion 106d). As a result, the large diameter shaft portion 106d is prevented from separating from the EA plate 103, and the energy absorbed by the load absorption mechanism 15 can be stabilized over the entire collapse stroke. Moreover, in this embodiment, the head 102b of the EA bolt 102 overlaps the EA plate 103 in a plan view. Therefore, downward movement of the EA plate 103 relative to the EA bolt 102 can also be restricted by the head 102b during a secondary collision.

[0085] (Second embodiment) The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a low sliding member 200 is provided on the EA plate 103 instead of the lower protruding portion 173 (see FIG. 5). FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the steering device 1 according to the second embodiment, corresponding to FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the steering device 1 according to the second embodiment, corresponding to FIG. 6. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to the line XI-XI in FIG. 10. 9 to 11, the low sliding member 200 is attached to the upper surface of the EA plate 103 in a state where it is superimposed on the pipe 12, the EA block 101, and the EA plate 103 when viewed from the top-bottom direction. Specifically, the low sliding member 200 includes an opposing portion 200a and an attachment portion 200b.

[0086] The facing portion 200a is formed in a plate shape extending in the front-rear direction, with the thickness direction being the up-down direction. The facing portion 200a extends in the front-rear direction at a portion of the EA plate 103 (operating piece 134) that includes the upper surface of the extending portion 150. In the illustrated example, the front end of the facing portion 200a reaches a portion of the upper surface of the operating piece 134 that is located forward of the extending portion 150. The rear end of the facing portion 200a reaches a portion of the upper surface of the operating piece 134 that is located rearward of the extending portion.

[0087] The facing portion 200a is located between the operating piece 134 and the EA block 101. The facing portion 200a is configured to be able to slide on the lower surface of the EA block 101 during a secondary collision. Therefore, it is sufficient that the front-rear range of the facing portion 200a is at least on the movement trajectory of the EA block 101 during a secondary collision.

[0088] The width of the facing portion 200a in the left-right direction is preferably narrower than the minimum width (of the constricted portions 151, 152) of the extending portion 150. In other words, the facing portion 200a is located inside the resistance portion 155 in the left-right direction. This makes it possible to suppress interference between the facing portion 200a and the large diameter shaft portion 106d during a secondary collision. Moreover, there is a gap in the vertical direction between the resistance portion 155 and the lower surface of the EA block 101. This makes it possible to prevent deformation marks (burrs, etc.) generated by plastically deforming the resistance portion 155 from coming into contact with the low sliding member 200 or the EA block 101. As a result, it is possible to prevent the deformation marks from interfering with the collapse stroke.

[0089] The attachment portions 200b are provided at both ends of the opposing portion 200a in the front-rear direction. The attachment portions 200b protrude upward from the opposing portion 200a. The attachment portions 200b are held by the operating piece 134 in a state in which they penetrate the operating piece 134 in the up-down direction.

[0090] In addition to the same effects as those of the first embodiment, the second embodiment also provides the following effects. That is, by providing the low sliding member 200 to the plate-shaped EA plate (one of the members) 103, it is possible to reduce the sliding resistance between the EA block (the other member) 101 and the EA plate 103. This allows for a simpler configuration and lower costs.

[0091] In the second embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the EA block 101 (lateral protrusion 172) is provided in addition to the low sliding member 200, but the configuration is not limited to this. The steering device 1 of the second embodiment is only required to be provided with at least the low sliding member 200. In the second embodiment, a configuration in which the low sliding member 200 is provided on the lower surface of the extension portion 150 has been described, but the configuration is not limited to this. The low sliding member 200 may be provided between the EA plate 103 and the EA block 101 (or the pipe 12) so as to be slidable on the EA plate 103.

[0092] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Addition, omission, substitution, and other modifications of the configuration are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited by the above description, but is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the axis O1 intersects with the front-rear direction, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The axis O1 may coincide with the front-rear direction of the vehicle.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the telescopic mechanism 46 is a feed screw mechanism, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The telescopic mechanism 46 may be, for example, a gear or the like. In the above-described embodiment, a so-called electric steering device 1 capable of telescoping and tilting by the motor units 51, 81 has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. The steering device 1 according to the present disclosure may also be used in a manual steering device 1 that switches between restricting and allowing movement of the pipe 12 in the forward and backward directions depending on the tightening load between the pipe and the housing. In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the EA bolt 102 is fixed to the pipe (shaft support portion) 12 via the EA block (shaft support portion) 101, but the configuration is not limited to this. The EA bolt 102 may be fixed directly to the pipe (shaft support portion) 12 (a configuration without the EA block 101 may also be used). In the above-described embodiment, the steering shaft 13 is rotatably inserted into the inside (insertion hole) of the pipe 12 that constitutes the shaft support portion, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The shaft support portion is not limited to a cylindrical shape as long as it is configured to rotatably support the steering shaft 13. For example, the shaft support portion may have an insertion hole into which the steering shaft 13 is inserted and may be configured to rotatably support the steering shaft 13. In this case, the shaft support portion may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped having an insertion hole, or the like.

[0094] In the above-described embodiment, the EA guide 105 is configured to be formed in a rectangular frame shape, but the shape and other aspects of the EA guide 105 can be appropriately changed as long as the EA guide 105 is configured to reduce the sliding resistance with the EA plate 103 at least during a secondary collision. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration is described in which the lower protrusion 173 is provided as the first reduction portion and the lateral protrusion 172 is provided as the second reduction portion, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the extension portion 150 is plastically deformed by the EA bolt 102 fixed to the EA block 101 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The sliding portion that deforms the extension portion 150 may be formed integrally with the EA block 101.

[0095] In the above-described embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the EA bolt 102 (large diameter shaft portion 106d) as a sliding portion is provided on the pipe 12 side (first member), and the EA plate 103 as a guide plate is provided on the housing 11 side (second member), but this configuration is not limited to this. The sliding portion may be provided on the housing 11 side (second member), and the guide plate may be provided on the pipe 12 side (first member).

[0096] In the above-described embodiment, the resistance portion 155 extends in the front-rear direction along both side edges of the extension portion 150, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The resistance portion may be provided in a plastically deformable manner at a portion of the movement path of the sliding portion. The resistance portion may be, for example, a plurality of protrusions provided intermittently on both side edges of the extension portion 150. In the above-described embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the large diameter shaft portion 106d is circular, but this is not limiting. The cross-sectional shape of the large diameter shaft portion 106d may be oval, polygonal, or the like.

[0097] In addition, within the scope of the present disclosure, the components in the above-described embodiments may be replaced with well-known components as appropriate, and the above-described modified examples may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1: Steering device 11: Housing (first member, second member) 12: Pipe (shaft support, second member, first member) 13: Steering shaft 15: Load absorption mechanism 36: Slit 46: Telescopic mechanism 81: Telescopic motor unit (actuator) 82a: Male threaded portion (engagement portion) 83a: Female thread portion (engaged portion) 83: Telescopic moving part (feed mechanism) 101: EA block (shaft support, one member, other member) 102b: Head (regulating member) 103: EA plate (guide plate, other member, one member) 104: EA cover (regulating member) 105: EA guide (low sliding member) 106d: Large diameter shaft (sliding part) 111: Base 140, 141: Long holes (guide holes) 155: Resistance section 171d:Relief area 172: Lateral extension (second lightening part) 173: Lower protrusion (first relief part) 200: Low sliding material O1: Axis line

Claims

1. a shaft support portion that supports a steering shaft so as to be rotatable about an axis along the front-rear direction; a housing that is supported by a vehicle body and that supports the shaft support portion so that the shaft support portion is movable in the front-rear direction; a load absorbing mechanism disposed between the shaft support and the housing, The load absorption mechanism includes: a sliding portion provided on a first member of the shaft support portion and the housing; a guide plate provided on a second member of the shaft support portion and the housing, the guide plate having a guide hole that guides the sliding portion as the first member moves relative to the second member in the front-rear direction during a secondary collision, and a resistance portion that protrudes into the guide hole and is plastically deformed by the sliding portion during the secondary collision; a low sliding member provided on one of the guide plate and the first member in a state where the low sliding member is superimposed on the guide plate and the first member in a radial direction intersecting the axis when viewed from the front-rear direction, the low sliding member is formed of a material having a smaller coefficient of friction than the one of the members, and is configured to be slidable on the other of the guide plate and the first member during the secondary collision; the low sliding member is provided on the first member and configured to be slidable on the guide plate, the first member is the shaft support portion, the second member is the housing, The shaft support portion is a pipe that rotatably supports the steering shaft; a base portion protruding radially outward from the pipe, the sliding portion is fixed to the base portion in a state where it protrudes outward in the radial direction, the housing accommodates the base portion and has a slit formed therein that allows the base portion to move forward during the secondary collision, The low sliding member is a first relief portion disposed between the guide plate and the base portion in the radial direction; a second lightening portion disposed around the base portion and facing the inner surface of the slit.

2. The low sliding member is formed in a frame shape when viewed from the radial direction, 2. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein the base portion is fitted inside the low sliding member.

3. 3. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein a recess portion is formed in a portion of the low sliding member that is located rearward of the sliding portion and that is located radially inward of the first reduction portion.

4. A shaft support portion that supports a steering shaft so as to be rotatable around an axis along the front-rear direction; a housing that is supported by a vehicle body and that supports the shaft support portion so that the shaft support portion is movable in the front-rear direction; a load absorbing mechanism disposed between the shaft support and the housing, The load absorption mechanism includes: a sliding portion provided on a first member of the shaft support portion and the housing; a guide plate provided on a second member of the shaft support portion and the housing, the guide plate having a guide hole that guides the sliding portion as the first member moves relative to the second member in the front-rear direction during a secondary collision, and a resistance portion that protrudes into the guide hole and is plastically deformed by the sliding portion during the secondary collision; a low sliding member provided on one of the guide plate and the first member in a state where the low sliding member is superimposed on the guide plate and the first member in a radial direction intersecting the axis when viewed from the front-rear direction, the low sliding member is formed of a material having a smaller coefficient of friction than the one of the members, and is configured to be slidable on the other of the guide plate and the first member during the secondary collision; The low sliding member is provided on the guide plate and configured to be slidable on the first member.

5. a telescopic mechanism provided between the load absorbing mechanism and the housing, for moving the load absorbing mechanism and the shaft support portion in a front-rear direction relative to the housing; The telescopic mechanism is an actuator coupled to the housing; 5. The steering device according to claim 1, further comprising: a feed mechanism having an engaging portion connected to the actuator and an engaged portion connected to the load absorbing mechanism and engaging with the engaging portion in the fore-and-aft direction, the feed mechanism transmitting the driving force of the actuator to the shaft support portion via the engaging portion and the engaged portion.

6. 6. A steering device according to claim 1, wherein a restricting member is provided in a portion of the sliding portion that is located on the opposite side of the first member in the radial direction, the restricting member overlapping the guide plate in the radial direction and restricting radial movement of the guide plate relative to the sliding portion.

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