Straddle pad for saddle-ride type vehicle and saddle-ride type vehicle

Abstract

A pad (100) for a straddled part of a saddled vehicle (1) is attached to the straddled part of the saddled vehicle so that at least a part thereof contacts a rider. The pad for the straddled part includes a first part (P1) and a second part (P2) that have different hardnesses.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a straddle pad for a saddle-ride type vehicle and a saddle-ride type vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to prevent scratches on the tank of a motorcycle, a pad member called a tank pad is sometimes attached to the rear of the tank (the part that comes into contact with the rider's clothes, etc.) Tank pads are disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example.

[0003] Furthermore, padding called knee pads may be attached to the sides of the tank to prevent the rider's knees from slipping when gripping the tank with their knees. Knee pads are disclosed in Patent Document 2, for example. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2016 / 170689 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-52454 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The inventors of the present application have conducted extensive research to provide new added value to the tank pad and knee pad (which may be collectively referred to as "straddle pads" in this specification, as will be described later).

[0006] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a straddle pad for a saddle-ride type vehicle that improves comfort. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] This specification discloses a straddle pad for a saddle-ride type vehicle and a saddle-ride type vehicle as described in the following items.

[0008] [Item 1] A straddle-type vehicle pad that is attached to a straddle-type vehicle so that at least a portion of the straddle-type vehicle contacts a rider, A straddle pad includes a first portion and a second portion having different hardnesses.

[0009] The straddling pad according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a first portion and a second portion that have different hardnesses. In other words, the straddling pad according to the embodiment of the present invention has a hardness distribution. By providing the straddling pad with a hardness distribution, it is possible to set the hardness according to the part of the body that comes into contact with the straddling pad, improving comfort.

[0010] [Item 2] A pair of knee pad portions to be placed in contact with the rider's knees and / or inner thighs; a middle pad portion located between the pair of knee pad portions; and the first portion being harder than the second portion; Each of the pair of knee pad portions includes the first portion, 2. The straddling portion pad according to item 1, wherein the middle pad portion includes the second portion.

[0011] The relatively hard first portion is included in the knee pad portion, and the relatively soft second portion is included in the middle pad portion, so that the knee pad portion, which is the area where you want to firmly support your body when gripping the knee, can be made hard, while the middle pad portion, which is the area where you want to distribute body pressure and reduce the feeling of pressure, can be made soft.

[0012] [Item 3] 3. The straddling pad according to item 1 or 2, having a lattice structure including a plurality of unit structures in a three-dimensional lattice shape.

[0013] The straddling pad may have a lattice structure including a plurality of unit structures in a three-dimensional lattice shape. In the lattice structure, the plurality of unit structures (referred to as "lattice portions") define spaces other than the lattice portions (referred to as "void portions"). The lattice structure of the straddling pad improves breathability and prevents stuffiness.

[0014] [Item 4] 4. The straddling pad according to item 3, wherein the unit structures in the first portion and the unit structures in the second portion have different sizes, shapes, and / or lattice thicknesses.

[0015] When the straddling pad has a lattice structure, the hardness of the first portion can be made different from the hardness of the second portion by making the size, shape and / or lattice thickness of the unit structures in the first portion different from that of the unit structures in the second portion.

[0016] [Item 5] 5. The straddle pad according to any one of items 1 to 4, which is formed from a resin material or a rubber material by additive manufacturing techniques.

[0017] The straddling pad according to the embodiment of the present invention can be formed from a resin material or a rubber material using, for example, additive manufacturing techniques. Additive manufacturing techniques can be used to favorably form straddling pads having a lattice structure, particularly a lattice structure including multiple regions with unit structures of different sizes, shapes, and / or lattice thicknesses.

[0018] [Item 6] A saddle-type vehicle equipped with the straddle portion pad according to any one of items 1 to 5.

[0019] The straddle portion pad according to the embodiment of the present invention is suitable for use in various types of saddle-ride type vehicles. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a straddle pad for a saddle-ride type vehicle that improves comfort can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a left side view schematically showing a motorcycle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A] 1 is a plan view schematically showing a straddle pad 100 provided on a motorcycle 1. FIG. [Figure 2B] 2B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 2B-2B' in FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] 2B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 2B-2B' in FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] 10 is a graph showing load-displacement curves of samples for which an improvement in riding comfort was felt in an actual riding evaluation. [Figure 3B] 10 is a graph showing load-displacement curves of samples for which an improvement in riding comfort was felt in an actual riding evaluation. [Figure 4A] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing the straddling pad 100. [Figure 4B] 4B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 4B-4B' in FIG. 4A. FIG. [Figure 4C] 4B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 4B-4B' in FIG. 4A. FIG. [Figure 5A] 1 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a straddling pad 100 having a lattice structure, as viewed from the Z direction. [Figure 5B] 1 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a straddling pad 100 having a lattice structure, showing a cross section parallel to the YZ plane. [Figure 6A] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing the straddling pad 100. [Figure 6B] 6B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 6B-6B' in FIG. 6A. FIG. [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing the straddling pad 100. [Figure 7B] 7B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 7B-7B' in FIG. 7A. [Figure 8A] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing the straddling pad 100. [Figure 8B] 8B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, taken along line 8B-8B' in FIG. 8A. [Figure 9A] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a straddling pad 100. [Figure 9B] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a straddling pad 100. [Figure 9C] 9C is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling pad 100, and corresponds to the cross section taken along line 9C-9C' in FIG. 6A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In the following description, a motorcycle is used as an example of a saddle-ride type vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, but the saddle-ride type vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited to a motorcycle.

[0023] [Motorcycle and straddle pad configuration] A motorcycle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a left side view that schematically shows the motorcycle 1. The motorcycle 1 shown in Figure 1 is an on-road motorcycle 1. Note that the motorcycle according to the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the on-road motorcycle 1, and may be a moped, off-road, or other type of motorcycle.

[0024] In the following description, front, rear, left, and right refer to the front, rear, left, and right, respectively, as seen from the rider seated on the motorcycle 1. Additionally, top and bottom refer to the top and bottom, respectively, when the motorcycle 1 is stopped on a horizontal plane.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 1, motorcycle 1 includes a body frame 10, a front wheel 2, a rear wheel 3, and an internal combustion engine 4. Motorcycle 1 also includes a fuel tank 5 supported by body frame 10, and a seat 6 on which a rider sits. Seat 6 is located behind fuel tank 5.

[0026] The body frame 10 includes a head pipe 11, left and right side frames 12 extending rearward and outward in the vehicle width direction from the head pipe 11, and left and right down frames 13 extending downward from the rear ends of the left and right side frames 12. A steering shaft (not shown) to which a handlebar 14 is fixed is supported on the head pipe 11 so as to be rotatable left and right. The steering shaft is fixed to the front fork 7.

[0027] The front wheel 2 is supported by a front fork 7. The rear wheel 3 is supported by the rear end of a rear arm 8. The front end of the rear arm 8 is supported by a down frame 13 via a pivot shaft 9 so that it can swing up and down. The front wheel 2 is a driven wheel. The rear wheel 3 is a driving wheel that is driven by the engine 4. The engine 4 and the rear wheel 3 are connected by a chain 15. The chain 15 is an example of a power transmission member that transmits the power of the engine 4 to the rear wheel 3. The power transmission member is not limited to the chain 15, and may be a transmission belt, a drive shaft, etc.

[0028] In this specification, the portion that comes into contact with the lower body of a rider straddling the motorcycle 1 is referred to as the "straddle portion." The straddle portion at least partially includes the seat 6, fuel tank 5, etc. In the example shown, the straddle portion also includes at least a portion of the left and right tank side covers 16 that cover the sides of the fuel tank 5. In addition, in this specification, a pad member that is attached to the straddle portion so that at least a portion of it comes into contact with the rider is referred to as a "straddle portion pad."

[0029] As shown in Fig. 1, motorcycle 1 includes straddle-section pad 100 attached to the straddle section. The configuration of straddle-section pad 100 will be described below with reference to Figs. 2A and 2B. Fig. 2A is a plan view schematically showing straddle-section pad 100. Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing straddle-section pad 100, taken along line 2B-2B' in Fig. 2A.

[0030] 2A and 2B, straddling pad 100 has a pair of knee pad portions 110 and a middle pad portion 120. Straddling pad 100 is formed from, for example, a resin material or a rubber material.

[0031] The pair of knee pads 110 are positioned so as to come into contact with the rider's knees. One of the pair of knee pads 110 (left knee pad) 110L is located on the left side of the motorcycle 1 and is attached to the rear left side of the fuel tank 5 and the left tank side cover 16. The other of the pair of knee pads 110 (right knee pad) 110R is located on the right side of the motorcycle 1 and is attached to the rear right side of the fuel tank 5 and the right tank side cover 16.

[0032] Middle pad portion 120 is located between the pair of knee pad portions 110. Middle pad portion 120 is attached to the center of the rear of fuel tank 5. In the example shown, middle pad portion 120 is continuous with left knee pad portion 110L and also with right knee pad portion 110R. In other words, middle pad portion 120 and the pair of knee pad portions 110 are integrally formed.

[0033] The straddling pad 100 includes two portions P1 and P2 with different hardness. Hereinafter, the relatively hard portion P1 will be referred to as the "first hardness portion" or simply the "first portion," and the relatively soft portion P2 will be referred to as the "second hardness portion" or simply the "second portion."

[0034] In the illustrated example, a relatively hard first portion P1 is included in knee pad portion 110, and a relatively soft second portion P2 is included in middle pad portion 120. Also, in the illustrated example, the hardness is substantially the same throughout left knee pad portion 110L (i.e., the entire left knee pad portion 110L is the first portion P1). Similarly, the hardness is substantially the same throughout right knee pad portion 110R (i.e., the entire right knee pad portion 110R is the first portion P1). Also, the hardness is substantially the same throughout middle pad portion 120 (i.e., the entire middle pad portion 120 is the second portion P2).

[0035] As described above, the straddling pad 100 includes a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 that differ in hardness. In other words, the straddling pad 100 has a hardness distribution. By having the straddling pad 100 have a hardness distribution, it is possible to set the hardness according to the part of the body that comes into contact with the straddling pad 100, improving comfort.

[0036] As shown in the example, if a relatively hard first portion P1 is included in the knee pad portion 110 and a relatively soft second portion P2 is included in the middle pad portion 120, the knee pad portion 110, which is the area where you want to firmly support your body when gripping the knee, can be made hard, and the middle pad portion 120, which is the area where you want to distribute body pressure and reduce the feeling of pressure, can be made soft.

[0037] As illustrated, the hardness of the entire left knee pad portion 110L may or may not be substantially the same. That is, the left knee pad portion 110L may have a portion whose hardness is different from that of the first portion P1. Similarly, the hardness of the entire right knee pad portion 110R may or may not be substantially the same. That is, the right knee pad portion 110R may have a portion whose hardness is different from that of the first portion P1. Furthermore, the hardness of the entire middle pad portion 120 may or may not be substantially the same. That is, the middle pad portion 120 may have a portion whose hardness is different from that of the second portion P2.

[0038] The hardness may vary continuously in part or throughout the entire straddle portion pad 100. A portion (intermediate hardness portion) that is softer than the first portion P1 and harder than the second portion P2 may be disposed between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2. For example, the center of the knee pad portion 110 may be the first portion P1, the center of the middle pad portion 120 may be the second portion P2, and the remaining portions may be intermediate hardness portions.

[0039] FIG. 2C shows another example of the hardness distribution of the straddle pad 100. In the example shown in FIG. 2C, the straddle pad 100 further includes a third hardness portion (hereinafter referred to as the "third portion") P3 that is softer than the second portion P2 (and, naturally, softer than the first portion P1). The third portion P3 is included in both the left knee pad portion 110L and the right knee pad portion 110R. The third portion P3 of the left knee pad portion 110L is located between the first portion P1 of the left knee pad portion 110L and the second portion P2 of the middle pad portion 120. The third portion P3 of the right knee pad portion 110R is located between the first portion P1 of the right knee pad portion 110L and the second portion P2 of the middle pad portion 120.

[0040] The hardness of the straddle pad 100 (the hardness of the first portion P1 and the second portion P2) can be evaluated using a load-displacement curve obtained by conducting a load test in accordance with JASO (Japan Automotive Society Standards) B408-89. Specifically, in the load-displacement curve obtained in this manner, the load at a predetermined displacement can be considered to be the "hardness."

[0041] Here, we will explain the results of creating multiple samples of knee pad portion 110 and middle pad portion 120 with different hardness, attaching them to motorcycles, and conducting on-road evaluations. The on-road evaluations revealed that two combinations, A and B, provided a perceived improvement in riding comfort. Hereinafter, the samples that make up combination A will be referred to as knee pad portion sample #1 and middle pad portion sample #3. Furthermore, the samples that make up combination B will be referred to as knee pad portion sample #2 and middle pad portion sample #4.

[0042] The load-displacement curves obtained by the above-described load test for knee pad samples #1 and #2 and middle pad samples #3 and #4 are shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0043] For combination A, if the load at a displacement of 1.0 mm is taken as the hardness, then the hardness of knee pad sample #1 was approximately 3.1 times that of middle pad sample #3, as shown in Figure 3A. Also, if the load at a displacement of 6.0 mm is taken as the hardness, then the hardness of knee pad sample #1 was approximately 1.3 times that of middle pad sample #3, as shown in Figure 3B.

[0044] For combination B, if the load at a displacement of 1.0 mm is taken as the hardness, then the hardness of knee pad sample #2 was approximately 7.1 times that of middle pad sample #4, as shown in Figure 3A. Also, if the load at a displacement of 4.0 mm is taken as the hardness, then the hardness of knee pad sample #2 was approximately 15 times that of middle pad sample #4, as shown in Figure 3A.

[0045] From the above results, it can be said that it is preferable that the hardness of the first portion P1 included in the knee pad portion 110 is 1.2 times or more the hardness of the second portion P2 included in the middle pad portion 120 when the load is in the range of 50 N or less.

[0046] 4A and 4B show other configurations of the straddling portion pad 100. Fig. 4A is a plan view schematically showing the straddling portion pad 100. Fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling portion pad 100, showing a cross section taken along line 4B-4B' in Fig. 4A.

[0047] 4A and 4B, middle pad portion 120 is not continuous with left knee pad portion 110L or right knee pad portion 110R. In other words, left knee pad portion 110L is separated from middle pad portion 120, and right knee pad portion 110R is also separated from middle pad portion 120. In other words, middle pad portion 120 and the pair of knee pad portions 110 are not formed integrally.

[0048] 4A and 4B, straddle pad 100 also includes a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 that differ in hardness, with the relatively hard first portion P1 being included in knee pad portion 110 and the relatively soft second portion P2 being included in middle pad portion 120. In the configuration illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, straddle pad 100 has a hardness distribution, which provides the effect of improving comfort.

[0049] 4A and 4B show an example in which middle pad portion 120 is formed as a single unit, but middle pad portion 120 may be divided into two or more parts (i.e., a combination of two or more separately formed components). Similarly, left knee pad portion 110L and right knee pad portion 110R are not limited to being formed as a single unit, but may be divided into two or more parts (i.e., a combination of two or more separately formed components).

[0050] 4C, middle pad section 120 may have a laminated configuration (i.e., a vertically divided configuration) in which a first layer L1 and a second layer L2 made of different materials are stacked. Even with this configuration, hardness can be measured using the method already described. Although not shown here, left knee pad section 110L and right knee pad section 110R may also have a laminated configuration (i.e., a vertically divided configuration) in which multiple layers made of different materials are stacked.

[0051] Needless to say, the planar shapes of straddle pad 100, knee pad portion 110, and middle pad portion 120 are not limited to those exemplified in FIGS. 2A and 4A.

[0052] [Microstructure of straddle pad] The straddling pad 100 may have a microstructure to achieve desired functional and mechanical properties. For example, the straddling pad 100 may have a lattice structure including a plurality of unit structures in a three-dimensional lattice shape.

[0053] 5A and 5B show an example of a straddling pad 100 having a lattice structure. Fig. 5A is a plan view showing an enlarged portion of straddling pad 100, as viewed from the Z direction. Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of straddling pad 100, as viewed from the YZ plane.

[0054] In the example shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the lattice structure of the straddling pad 100 has a plurality of unit structures U. Each unit structure U is formed by combining a plurality of beams b and has a cubic shape (more precisely, a portion corresponding to the edge of a cube). Hereinafter, the portion LP of the straddling pad 100 occupied by the plurality of unit structures U will be referred to as a "lattice portion," and the space SP other than the lattice portion LP (the space partitioned by the lattice portion LP) will be referred to as a "void portion." In the example shown, the lattice portion LP has a shape formed by continuously arranging a plurality of cubes.

[0055] The lattice structure of the straddle pad 100 allows it to behave in such a way that when a load is applied to the straddle pad 100, it remains soft until the lattice portion LP deforms sufficiently and the voids SP collapse, and then becomes somewhat hard after the voids SP collapse. This allows the straddle pad 100 to be soft when lightly holding the straddle pad 100 or in areas where pressure is desired to be reduced, thereby reducing the feeling of pressure. On the other hand, when the straddle pad 100 is being held firmly, the straddle pad 100 can be hardened to improve the grip (preventing the feeling of instability due to being too soft). In other words, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in pressure and an improvement in grip. Furthermore, the lattice structure of the straddle pad 100 improves breathability and suppresses stuffiness.

[0056] In addition, when the spanning portion pad 100 has a lattice structure, there may be areas where almost only the void portion SP exists along the thickness direction, but the thickness of the spanning portion pad 100 is defined by the outer edge (contour) of the spanning portion pad 100, which is defined to include both the lattice portion LP and the void portion SP.

[0057] 5A and 5B, various known lattice structures (three-dimensional mesh structures) can be used. Furthermore, the unit structures U of the lattice structure do not necessarily need to be strictly regular in size, shape, arrangement, etc., and some irregularity is permissible as long as the desired functions and mechanical properties are achieved.

[0058] [Manufacturing method for straddle pad] The straddling pad 100 can be suitably formed, for example, by additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing is a technology for forming a three-dimensional structure (a three-dimensional object) using a 3D printer. Additive manufacturing makes it possible to easily manufacture even three-dimensional structures with complex shapes based on 3D CAD data or 3DCG data.

[0059] For example, a resin material (including elastomer and gel) or a rubber material can be suitably used as the material for the straddle pad 100. As the resin material and rubber material, various known resin materials and rubber materials such as polyurethane can be used.

[0060] As a 3D printer, for example, a PolyJet type 3D printer proposed by Stratasys, Inc. can be used. In the PolyJet type, modeling is performed by alternately repeating the ejection of liquid particles containing ultraviolet-curable material from the nozzles of an inkjet head and curing by ultraviolet irradiation. Of course, 3D printers other than the PolyJet type may also be used.

[0061] Additive manufacturing techniques can be used to suitably form the straddle pad 100 having a lattice structure as described above. When additive manufacturing techniques are used to form the straddle pad 100 having a lattice structure, the size, shape, and / or lattice thickness (i.e., the thickness of the beams b) of the unit structures U can be made different for each region. The size and shape of the unit structures U can be made different by adjusting, for example, the length, angle, number, and combination method of the beams b. By making the size, shape, and / or lattice thickness of the unit structures U different for each region, the hardness can be made different for each region, so that the straddle pad 100 having a lattice structure can easily have a hardness distribution.

[0062] [Thickness Distribution] 6A and 6B, a further configuration of the straddling portion pad 100 will be described. Fig. 6A is a plan view schematically showing the straddling portion pad 100. Fig. 6B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling portion pad 100, showing a cross section taken along line 6B-6B' in Fig. 6A.

[0063] In the straddling portion pad 100 shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion 120 is greater than the minimum thickness of each knee pad portion 110 and is equal to or greater than the maximum thickness of each knee pad portion 110.

[0064] In the example shown in FIG. 6B, the thickness t3 of the middle pad portion 120 is constant (substantially the same) throughout the middle pad portion 120.

[0065] In the example shown in FIG. 6B, the left knee pad portion 110L is divided into two regions 110La and 110Lb (referred to as the "first region" and the "second region," respectively) based on its thickness t1. In the first region 110La, the thickness t1 of the left knee pad portion 110L is substantially the same. The second region 110Lb is located between the first region 110La and the middle pad portion 120. In the second region 110Lb, the thickness t1 of the left knee pad portion 110L decreases from the middle pad portion 120 side toward the first region 110La side.

[0066] Similarly, focusing on the thickness t2 of the right knee pad portion 110R, the right knee pad portion 110R is divided into two regions 110Ra and 110Rb (referred to as the "third region" and the "fourth region," respectively). In the third region 110Ra, the thickness t2 of the right knee pad portion 110R is substantially the same. The fourth region 110Rb is located between the third region 110Ra and the middle pad portion 120. In the fourth region 110Rb, the thickness t2 of the right knee pad portion 110L decreases from the middle pad portion 120 side toward the third region 110Ra side. The thickness t1 of the first region 110La of the left knee pad portion 110L and the thickness t2 of the third region 110Ra of the right knee pad portion 110R are, for example, substantially the same, but are not limited to this.

[0067] 6A and 6B, the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion 120 is greater than the minimum thickness of each knee pad portion 110 and is equal to or greater than the maximum thickness of each knee pad portion 110. In other words, the straddle pad 100 has a thickness distribution. The thickness distribution of the straddle pad 100 allows for appropriate body pressure distribution according to the parts of the rider's body that come into contact with the straddle pad 100, improving comfort. The maximum thickness of the middle pad portion 120 is greater than the minimum thickness of each knee pad portion 110 and is equal to or greater than the maximum thickness of each knee pad portion 110, improving the fit and vibration reduction of the middle pad portion 120 while allowing the knee pad portions 110 to optimally hold the lower body (knee grip).

[0068] From the standpoint of improving the fit and vibration damping properties of middle pad portion 120, it is preferable that the maximum thickness of middle pad portion 120 be greater than the maximum thickness of each knee pad portion 110, as will be exemplified later.

[0069] There is no particular limitation on the maximum thickness of middle pad portion 120. Similarly, there is no particular limitation on the maximum thickness of each of pair of knee pad portions 110.

[0070] From the viewpoint of improving the fit and vibration reduction of middle pad portion 120, the maximum thickness of middle pad portion 120 is preferably 150% or more of the minimum thickness of knee pad portion 110, and more preferably 200% or more.

[0071] From the viewpoint of improving the fit and vibration reduction of middle pad portion 120, the maximum thickness of middle pad portion 120 is preferably 150% or more of the maximum thickness of knee pad portion 110, and more preferably 200% or more.

[0072] Furthermore, by having the straddle portion pad 100 have, for example, the lattice structure described above, when a load is applied to the straddle portion pad 100, it can behave in such a way that it is initially soft and then hardens once it is compressed to a certain extent. From the viewpoint of realizing such two-stage behavior, it is preferable that the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion 120 is 10 mm or more, and more preferably 20 mm or more.

[0073] Knee pad section 110 may be low-resilience, meaning that it may return to its original shape relatively slowly (recovery speed) when the applied load is removed. If knee pad section 110 is low-resilience, knee pad section 110 is less likely to get in the way when releasing the knee grip and lowering the leg, making it easier to lower the leg.

[0074] 7A and 7B show another configuration of straddling pad 100 having a thickness distribution in addition to a hardness distribution. Fig. 7A is a plan view schematically showing straddling pad 100. Fig. 7B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing straddling pad 100, showing a cross section taken along line 7B-7B' in Fig. 7A.

[0075] 7A and 7B, the thickness t3 of middle pad portion 120 is constant (substantially the same) throughout middle pad portion 120. Furthermore, the thickness t1 of left knee pad portion 110L is not constant throughout left knee pad portion 110L, but decreases with increasing distance from middle pad portion 120. Similarly, the thickness t2 of right knee pad portion 110R is not constant throughout right knee pad portion 110R, but decreases with increasing distance from middle pad portion 120.

[0076] In the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the straddle portion pad 100 has a thickness distribution, which provides the effect of improving comfort.

[0077] 8A and 8B show yet another configuration of straddling pad 100 having a thickness distribution in addition to a hardness distribution. Fig. 8A is a plan view schematically showing straddling pad 100. Fig. 8B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing straddling pad 100, showing a cross section taken along line 8B-8B' in Fig. 8A.

[0078] 8A and 8B, middle pad portion 120 is not continuous with left knee pad portion 110L or right knee pad portion 110R. In other words, left knee pad portion 110L is separated from middle pad portion 120, and right knee pad portion 110R is also separated from middle pad portion 120. In other words, middle pad portion 120 and the pair of knee pad portions 110 are not formed integrally.

[0079] 8A and 8B, thickness t1 of left knee pad portion 110L is constant (substantially the same) throughout left knee pad portion 110L, thickness t2 of right knee pad portion 110R is constant (substantially the same) throughout right knee pad portion 110R, and thickness t3 of middle pad portion 120 is constant (substantially the same) throughout middle pad portion 120.

[0080] Even in the configuration illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B, the straddle pad 100 has a thickness distribution (more specifically, the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion 120 is greater than the maximum thickness of each knee pad portion 110), which has the effect of improving comfort.

[0081] The thickness distribution of the straddling pad 100 is not limited to the examples shown in FIGS. 6B, 7B, and 8B.

[0082] For example, the configuration shown in FIG. 6B may be modified as shown in FIG. 9A. In the configuration shown in FIG. 9A, the thickness t3 of the middle pad portion 120 is not constant. The middle pad portion 120 has a fifth region 120a in which the thickness t3 is maximum, and a sixth region 120b located in the center of the middle pad portion 120 in the left-right direction (direction parallel to the Y direction) and in which the thickness t3 is smaller than the maximum thickness. In addition, a seventh region 120c is located between the fifth region 120a and the sixth region 120b, and in the seventh region 120c, the thickness t3 increases from the sixth region 120b side toward the fifth region 120a side.

[0083] The configuration shown in Fig. 6B may also be modified as shown in Fig. 9B. In the configuration shown in Fig. 9B, the thickness t1 of left knee pad portion 110L is constant (substantially the same) throughout the entire left knee pad portion 110L, and the thickness t2 of right knee pad portion 110R is constant (substantially the same) throughout the entire right knee pad portion 110R. The thickness changes stepwise at the boundary between left knee pad portion 110L and middle pad portion 120, and the thickness changes stepwise at the boundary between right knee pad portion 110R and middle pad portion 120.

[0084] Furthermore, the middle pad portion 120 may have a thickness distribution in the vertical direction (the vertical direction when the straddling portion pad 100 is attached to the straddling portion). An example of such a middle pad portion 120 is shown in Fig. 9C. Fig. 9C is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the straddling portion pad 100, and corresponds to the cross section taken along line 9C-9C' in Fig. 6A.

[0085] 9C, the middle pad portion 120 includes two adjacent regions 120u and 120l in the up-down direction. One of the two regions 120u (upper region) 120u, which is located relatively higher, includes a thinner portion than the other region (lower region) 120l. More specifically, the upper region 120u becomes thinner as it moves away from the lower region 120l. By having such a thickness distribution in the up-down direction in the middle pad portion 120, the difference in level between the fuel tank 5 and the straddle portion pad 100 can be reduced, improving the sense of unity.

[0086] Furthermore, the middle pad portion 120 may be divided into upper and lower portions. For example, the upper region 120u and the lower region 120l may be separated rather than being integrated.

[0087] In a configuration in which the middle pad portion 120 and a pair of knee pad portions 110 are integrally formed as illustrated in Figures 6B, 7B, 9A, and 9B, the portion where the thickness begins to decrease when considering the change in thickness from the center toward the side in the left-right direction of the straddle portion pad 100 can be defined as the boundary between the middle pad portion 120 and each knee pad portion 110.

[0088] The straddle pad 100 may be covered with a covering material (hereinafter referred to as a "pad cover") made of cloth, leather, or the like. When the left knee pad portion 110L and the right knee pad portion 110R are separate from the middle pad portion 120, the middle pad portion 120, the left knee pad portion 110L, and the right knee pad portion 110R may each be covered with a separate pad cover, or they may be integrally covered with a single pad cover. The straddle pad 100 may also be attached to a base material (hereinafter referred to as a "pad base") made of cloth, leather, or the like. When the left knee pad portion 110L and the right knee pad portion 110R are separate from the middle pad portion 120, the middle pad portion 120, the left knee pad portion 110L, and the right knee pad portion 110R may each be attached to a separate pad base, or they may be attached to a single pad base.

[0089] As described above, embodiments of the present invention provide a straddle-section pad that improves comfort. In the above description, a motorcycle has been used as an example of a straddle-type vehicle. However, straddle-section pads according to embodiments of the present invention can also be used suitably in straddle-type vehicles other than motorcycles, such as jet skis. Furthermore, straddle-section pads according to embodiments of the present invention can also be used suitably in straddle-type vehicles that have an electric motor instead of (or in addition to) an internal combustion engine as a drive source. Depending on the type and specifications of the straddle-type vehicle, the component located immediately in front of the seat may not be a fuel tank (e.g., a dummy tank or a battery housing). In such cases, the "straddle-section" may not include the fuel tank. Furthermore, if the component located immediately in front of the seat is a fuel tank, a cover covering the fuel tank may be provided. In such cases (i.e., if the straddle-section includes such a cover), the straddle-section pad is attached to the cover.

[0090] As described above, the straddle pad 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is a straddle pad 100 for a saddle-type vehicle that is attached to the straddle part of the saddle-type vehicle 1 so that at least a portion of it comes into contact with the rider, and includes a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 that have different hardnesses.

[0091] The straddling pad 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 that have different hardnesses. In other words, the straddling pad 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention has a hardness distribution. By providing the straddling pad 100 with a hardness distribution, it is possible to set the hardness according to the part of the body that comes into contact with the straddling pad 100, thereby improving comfort.

[0092] In one embodiment, the straddle pad 100 has a pair of knee pad sections 110 that are positioned to contact the rider's knees and / or inner thighs, and a middle pad section 120 that is positioned between the pair of knee pad sections 110, and the first section P1 is harder than the second section P2, and each of the pair of knee pad sections 110 includes the first section P1, and the middle pad section 120 includes the second section P2.

[0093] The relatively hard first portion P1 is included in the knee pad portion 110, and the relatively soft second portion P2 is included in the middle pad portion 120, so that the knee pad portion 110, which is the area where you want to firmly support your body when gripping the knee, can be made hard, and the middle pad portion 120, which is the area where you want to distribute body pressure and reduce the feeling of pressure, can be made soft.

[0094] In one embodiment, the straddling pad 100 has a lattice structure including a plurality of unit structures U in a three-dimensional lattice shape.

[0095] The straddling portion pad 100 may have a lattice structure including a plurality of unit structures U in a three-dimensional lattice shape. In the lattice structure, the plurality of unit structures U (lattice portion LP) described above define spaces (void portions SP) other than the lattice portion LP. The lattice structure of the straddling portion pad 100 improves breathability and prevents stuffiness.

[0096] In one embodiment, the unit structures U in the first portion P1 and the unit structures U in the second portion P2 differ in size, shape, and / or lattice thickness.

[0097] When the straddling pad 100 has a lattice structure, the hardness of the first portion P1 and the hardness of the second portion P2 can be made different by making the size, shape and / or lattice thickness of the unit structure U in the first portion P1 different from that of the unit structure U in the second portion P2.

[0098] In one embodiment, the straddle pad 100 is formed from a resin material or a rubber material by additive manufacturing techniques.

[0099] The straddling pad 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention can be formed from a resin material or a rubber material using, for example, additive manufacturing technology. By using additive manufacturing technology, the straddling pad 100 having a lattice structure can be suitably formed, and in particular, a lattice structure including multiple regions in which the unit structures U have different sizes, shapes, and / or lattice thicknesses can be easily realized.

[0100] The straddle-type vehicle 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a straddle-section pad 100 having any of the above-described configurations.

[0101] The straddle portion pad 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention is suitable for use in various types of saddle-ride type vehicles 1. [Industrial Applicability]

[0102] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a straddle portion pad for a saddle-ride type vehicle that improves comfort can be provided. The straddle portion pad according to an embodiment of the present invention can be suitably used in various saddle-ride type vehicles. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1: motorcycle, 2: front wheel, 3: rear wheel, 4: internal combustion engine (engine), 5: fuel tank, 6: seat, 7: front fork, 8: rear arm, 9: pivot shaft, 10: body frame, 11: head pipe, 12: side frame, 13: down frame, 14: handlebars, 15: chain, 16: tank side cover, 100: straddle pad, 110: knee pad, 110L: left knee pad, 110La: first area of ​​left knee pad, 110Lb: second area of ​​left knee pad Region, 110R: right knee pad portion, 110Ra: third region of right knee pad portion, 110Rb: fourth region of right knee pad portion, 120: middle pad portion, 120a: fifth region of middle pad portion, 120b: sixth region of middle pad portion, 120c: seventh region of middle pad portion, 120u: upper region of middle pad portion, 120l: lower region of middle pad portion, P1: first hardness portion (first portion), P2: second hardness portion (second portion), LP: lattice portion, SP: void portion, U: unit structure, b: beam

Claims

1. A straddle-type vehicle pad that is attached to a straddle-type vehicle so that at least a portion of the straddle-type vehicle contacts a rider, A pair of knee pad portions to be placed in contact with the rider's knees and / or inner thighs; a middle pad portion located between the pair of knee pad portions; A skin material, and The hardness sensor includes a first portion and a second portion having different hardnesses from each other, Each of the pair of knee pad portions is separated from the middle pad portion, The pair of knee pad portions and the middle pad portion are integrally covered with the covering material.

2. the first portion being harder than the second portion; Each of the pair of knee pad portions includes the first portion, The straddling pad according to claim 1 , wherein the middle pad portion includes the second portion.

3. A straddling pad as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the pair of knee pad portions and the middle pad portion have a lattice structure including a plurality of unit structures in a three-dimensional lattice shape.

4. The straddling pad according to claim 3 , wherein the unit structures in the first portion and the unit structures in the second portion have different sizes, shapes, and / or lattice thicknesses.

5. A straddle pad as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the pair of knee pad portions and the middle pad portion are formed from a resin material or a rubber material by additive manufacturing technology.

6. Further comprising a base material; The straddling pad according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pair of knee pad portions and the middle pad portion are attached onto the base material.

7. A straddling portion pad as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion is greater than the minimum thickness of each of the pair of knee pad portions and is equal to or greater than the maximum thickness of each of the pair of knee pad portions.

8. A straddle pad as described in Claim 7, wherein the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion is greater than the maximum thickness of each of the pair of knee pad portions.

9. A straddle pad as described in claim 7, wherein the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion is 150% or more of the minimum thickness of each of the pair of knee pad portions.

10. A straddle pad as described in Claim 9, wherein the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion is 150% or more of the maximum thickness of each of the pair of knee pad portions.

11. A straddling portion pad as described in claim 7, wherein the maximum thickness of the middle pad portion is 10 mm or more.

12. A straddle-type vehicle comprising the straddle pad according to claim 1 or 2.

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