Vehicle door device

Abstract

To suppress shaking during opening and closing driving.SOLUTION: A vehicle door device 20 includes first and second link arms 11, 12 having a first rotational connection point X1 to a vehicle body 2 and a second rotational connection point X2 to a door 5 of a vehicle, respectively. Also, the vehicle door device 20 includes an actuator 25 that drives a link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11, 12 to open and close the door 5. In addition, The vehicle door device 20 includes a connection length variable mechanism 35 provided on the second link arm 12 that enables a connection length between the first and second rotational connection points X1 and X2 to be changed. Furthermore, the vehicle door device 20 changes the opening / closing movement trajectory of the door 5 based on the operation of the connection length variable mechanism 35. The actuator 25 imparts driving force to the first link arm 11 on which the connection length variable mechanism 35 is not provided.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 24

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle door device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is a vehicle door device that includes first and second link arms having a first pivot connection point relative to the vehicle body and a second pivot connection point relative to the vehicle door. In such a vehicle door device, a door provided in a door opening thereof opens and closes based on the operation of a link mechanism formed by the first and second link arms. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which, when the door is closed, each link arm forming the link mechanism is stored in a position outside a door opening attached to a terminal portion of the side of the vehicle body and inside a weatherstrip attached to the interior side of the door. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which such a link mechanism formed by each link arm is combined with a structure in which a guide rail on the vehicle body side and a guide roller unit on the door side engage with each other. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-90097 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-163693 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in a structure in which the door is supported on the vehicle body via the link mechanism, vibrations generated in the first and second link arms that make up the link mechanism tend to cause the door to shake. In a power door system that opens and closes the door using the driving force of an actuator, this can degrade the door's feel, including its texture. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A vehicle door device that solves the above problem comprises first and second link arms having a first pivotal connection point relative to the vehicle body and a second pivotal connection point relative to the vehicle door, an actuator that drives the link mechanism formed by the first and second link arms to open and close the door, and a variable connection length mechanism that is provided on one of the first and second link arms and that can change the connection length between the first and second pivotal connection points, and it is preferable that the opening and closing operation trajectory of the door changes based on the operation of the variable connection length mechanism, and that the actuator apply a driving force to the other side of the first and second link arms that is not provided with the variable connection length mechanism.

[0006] According to the above configuration, when the door is opened or closed based on the driving force of the actuator, the link arm having the variable connection length mechanism is less likely to vibrate due to the driving force of the actuator. That is, when a driving force is applied to the link arm having the variable connection length mechanism, the variable connection length mechanism may be activated based on the driving force of the actuator, for example, by extending the connection length prior to the door opening or closing operation due to the inertia of the door or the operating resistance of frictional forces. This may result in vibrations occurring in the link arm having the variable connection length mechanism causing the door to sway. However, this problem does not occur in the link arm without the variable connection length mechanism. This reduces door sway during the opening or closing operation based on the driving force of the actuator.

[0007] In a vehicle door device that solves the above problem, it is preferable that the actuator is provided on the first link arm, and the first link arm has the second pivot connection point that is connected to the door at a position closer to the center of gravity of the door than the second link arm.

[0008] According to the above configuration, the door can be stably supported by the first link arm. By applying the driving force of the actuator to the first link arm, the door can be stably driven to open and close while suppressing swinging of the door.

[0009] In the vehicle door device that solves the above problem, the actuator is preferably provided at a location where the first rotation connection point is formed. According to the above configuration, by providing the actuator on the base end side of the link arm, the load supported by the link arm can be reduced. Furthermore, a relatively large installation space can be secured compared to when the actuator is located on the door side. Furthermore, by integrating the actuator with the portion where the first pivot connection point is formed, the device can be made more compact.

[0010] In a vehicle door device that solves the above problem, it is preferable that the first pivot connection point has an upper connection point and a lower connection point spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the actuator is located at a position between the upper connection point and the lower connection point.

[0011] According to the above configuration, the base end of the link arm can be stably supported relative to the vehicle body. Furthermore, the actuator can be disposed within the first pivotal connection point with a simple configuration. This allows the actuator and the first pivotal connection point to be integrally configured.

[0012] In a vehicle door device that solves the above problem, it is preferable that the variable connection length mechanism is a joint link mechanism that rotatably connects a vehicle body side link having the first rotational connection point and a door side link having the second rotational connection point.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the base of a triangle formed by the vehicle body link and the door side link, with the apex being the intermediate connection point of the joint link mechanism, is the connection length between the first and second rotation connection points, and this connection length can be changed based on the relative rotation between the vehicle body link and the door side link.

[0014] Furthermore, such a joint link mechanism is characterized by being less susceptible to the influence of the environment in which it is used, such as foreign matter such as dust and dirt, or freezing, etc. This makes it possible to ensure high reliability and durability.

[0015] Another advantage of the articulated link mechanism is that the body-side link and the door-side link can be shaped with a high degree of freedom. For example, the body-side link can be bent to avoid interference with the door opening. This allows for a larger door opening distance when the door is fully opened.

[0016] A vehicle door device that solves the above problem comprises a door-side engagement portion provided at the closing end of the door that opens and closes the door opening of the vehicle based on the operation of the link mechanism, and a vehicle body-side engagement portion provided at the closing end of the door opening to which the closing end of the door approaches and moves away based on the opening and closing operation of the door, wherein one side of the door-side engagement portion and the vehicle body-side engagement portion comprises an axial engagement portion extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the other side of the door-side engagement portion and the vehicle body-side engagement portion comprises a pair of side wall portions opposing each other in the vehicle width direction and a guide groove extending in the opening and closing operation direction of the door, and it is preferable that the axial engagement portion is positioned within the guide groove at an opening and closing operation position near the fully closed position of the door where the door-side engagement portion and the vehicle body-side engagement portion engage.

[0017] According to the above configuration, the shaft-shaped engaging portion is disposed in the guide groove, thereby restricting its displacement in the vehicle width direction, and this allows the door to be stably supported even when the first and second link arms are in an opening / closing operation position near the fully closed position where they tend to be close to each other and aligned in a straight line.

[0018] Furthermore, when the door engaging portion and the vehicle body engaging portion are engaged, the door's opening / closing movement trajectory changes from an arc-shaped gliding trajectory to a linear sliding trajectory based on the operation of the variable coupling length mechanism, allowing the door to be smoothly closed to the fully closed position and opened from the fully closed position. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress vibrations during opening and closing operations. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle door device. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle door device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of first and second link arms that form the link mechanism. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a plan view of first and second link arms that form the link mechanism. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a plan view of first and second link arms that form the link mechanism. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a plan view of first and second link arms that form the link mechanism. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a door and a door opening, illustrating the arrangement of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 10] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 11] FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a door-side engaging portion and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion. [Figure 15]FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first guide member and a fixed bracket that constitute an upper vehicle body side engaging portion. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second guide member and a fixed bracket that constitute a lower vehicle body side engaging portion. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a side view of the second guide member and the fixing bracket. [Figure 20] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a second guide member and a fixing bracket. [Figure 21] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first guide member and a fixing bracket. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a joint link mechanism that constitutes a variable connection length mechanism provided on a second link arm. [Figure 23] FIG. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle door device. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle door device. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a second link arm having an articulated link mechanism. [Figure 27] 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the operation of a second link arm having a joint link mechanism. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a side view of a second link arm having an articulated link mechanism. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a second link arm having an articulated link mechanism. [Figure 30] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the second pivot connection point of the second link arm to the door and the intermediate connection point of the articulation link mechanism. FIG. [Figure 31] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an engaging protrusion provided on the second link arm and a cam member provided on the door. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an engaging protrusion provided on the second link arm and a cam member provided on the door. [Figure 33] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an engaging protrusion provided on the second link arm and a cam member provided on the door. [Figure 34]FIG. 10 is a plan view of an engaging protrusion provided on the second link arm and a cam member provided on the door. [Figure 35] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the vicinity of a first rotation connection point of the second link arm relative to the vehicle body. [Figure 36] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a first pivot connection point of the second link arm relative to the vehicle body. [Figure 37] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first link arm and an actuator. [Figure 38] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a first link arm and an actuator. [Figure 39] FIG. [Figure 40] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the tip bracket and door bracket that form the second rotation connection point of the first link arm relative to the door, and a friction member. FIG. [Figure 41] FIG. 10 is a side view of the vicinity of a location where a first rotation connection point of a first link arm provided with an actuator relative to a vehicle body is formed. [Figure 42] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an expandable link mechanism constituting a modified variable connection length mechanism. [Figure 43] FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A vehicle door device according to an embodiment will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 1 and 2, a vehicle 1 of this embodiment has a door opening 3 provided on the side of a vehicle body 2. A first link arm 11 and a second link arm 12 that support a door 5 of the vehicle 1 at the door opening 3 are provided in the door opening 3.

[0022] More specifically, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the first and second link arms 11, 12 each have a first rotation connection point X1 with respect to the vehicle body 2 and a second rotation connection point X2 with respect to the door 5. Specifically, the first link arm 11 is connected to the vehicle body 2 while being journaled on a spindle N1a extending in the vertical direction (vertical direction in each drawing), and is connected to the door 5 while being journaled on a spindle N1b extending in the vertical direction. The second link arm 12 is also connected to the vehicle body 2 while being journaled on a spindle N2a extending in the vertical direction, and is connected to the door 5 while being journaled on a spindle N2b extending in the vertical direction.

[0023] 3 to 6, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the first and second link arms 11, 12 form a link mechanism 15 configured as a four-bar link. The vehicle 1 of this embodiment is configured so that the door 5 supported in the door opening 3 opens and closes based on the operation of the link mechanism 15.

[0024] 1 and 2, the vehicle 1 of this embodiment uses these first and second link arms 11, 12 to support the door 5 at the door opening 3 on the rear side of the vehicle (left side in FIG. 1, right side in FIG. 2). In the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, these first and second link arms 11, 12 each have a first pivot connection point X1 that is pivotally connected to the vehicle body 2 near a rear edge 3r of the door opening 3. In the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, these first and second link arms 11, 12 are arranged spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0025] In the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the first link arm 11 is provided higher than the second link arm 12. The first link arm 11 has a second rotation connection point X2 that is rotatably connected to the door 5 at approximately the center of the door 5 in the front-to-rear direction. On the other hand, the second link arm 12 has a second rotation connection point X2 that is connected to the door 5 near the front end 5f of the door 5. As a result, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, a vehicle door device 20 is formed in which the door 5 opens and closes based on the operation of the link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11, 12.

[0026] 3 to 6, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first and second link arms 11 and 12 each rotate counterclockwise in the drawings about the first rotation connection point X1 during an opening operation of the door 5. As a result, the door 5 of the vehicle 1 supported by the first and second link arms 11 and 12 opens toward the rear of the vehicle (to the left in the drawings).

[0027] In addition, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, when the door 5 is closed, the first and second link arms 11 and 12 each rotate clockwise in the drawings around the first rotation connection point X1, thereby causing the door 5 of the vehicle 1 supported by the first and second link arms 11 and 12 to close toward the front of the vehicle (to the right in the drawings).

[0028] Furthermore, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the opening / closing operation locus R of the door 5 is defined so as to describe an arc-shaped glide locus Rg based on the operation of the link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11 and 12. That is, as shown in Fig. 5, at an intermediate position where the first and second link arms 11 and 12 extend in the vehicle width direction (the up-down direction in Figs. 3 to 6), the movement component in the vehicle front-rear direction becomes large. Then, as shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the opening / closing operation position of the door 5 approaches the fully closed position P0, the first and second link arms 11 and 12 extend in the vehicle front-rear direction (the left-right direction in Figs. 3 to 6), and the movement component in the vehicle width direction becomes large.

[0029] In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first link arm 11 has the second pivot connection point X2 with respect to the door 5 at a position closer to the center of gravity G than the second link arm 12. That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first link arm 11 is therefore positioned as the main link 21 that supports a larger door load. The second link arm 12 is positioned as the sub-link 22 that receives a relatively small door load.

[0030] In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first link arm 11 has a larger outer shape than the second link arm 12. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to impart high support rigidity to the first link arm 11 positioned on the main link 21.

[0031] The vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment also includes an actuator 25 that uses a motor 25m as a drive source to rotationally drive the first link arm 11. In the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the actuator 25 is provided at the base end portion of the first link arm 11. That is, the actuator 25 of this embodiment drives the link mechanism 15 formed by the first link arm 11 and the second link arm 12 by rotating the first link arm 11. Thus, the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment has a configuration as a power door apparatus 30 that can open and close the door 5 based on the drive force of the actuator 25.

[0032] 3 to 7, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment includes a door-side engaging portion 31 provided at a front end 5f of the door 5 and a vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 provided at a front edge 3f of the door opening 3. That is, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the door-side engaging portion 31 is provided at a closing-side end 33 located on the closing operation side of the door 5, which opens and closes the door opening 3 of the vehicle 1 based on the operation of the link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11 and 12. Furthermore, the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 is provided at a closing-side end 34 of the door opening 3 to which the closing-side end 33 of the door 5 moves toward or away from the door 5 based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5 moving in the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 engage with each other when the door 5 is in the vicinity of the fully closed position P0.

[0033] 8 and 9, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment has door-side engaging portions 31, 31 provided at a front end portion 5f of the door 5 at two positions spaced apart in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the vehicle door device 20 has vehicle-body-side engaging portions 32, 32 provided at a front edge portion 3f of the door opening 3 at two positions similarly spaced apart in the vertical direction. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to hold the door 5 at the fully closed position P0 with the door-side engaging portions 31, 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portions 32, 32 engaged with each other.

[0034] 3 to 6, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the second link arm 12 positioned as the sub-link 22 is provided with a connection length variable mechanism 35 that can change the connection length L between the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2. Furthermore, the connection length variable mechanism 35 is biased in a direction that shortens the length between the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2, that is, the connection length L of the door 5 by the second link arm 12 to which the connection length variable mechanism 35 is provided. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the door 5 opens and closes with the connection length L by the second link arm 12 shortened.

[0035] 3, 4, and 7, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the door 5 is allowed to open and close in a state in which the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 are engaged, based on the operation of the connecting length variable mechanism 35 provided in the second link arm 12. That is, near the fully closed position P0 in which the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 are engaged, the connecting length L of the door 5 by the second link arm 12 changes, thereby changing the posture of the door 5 supported by the link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11, 12. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the door 5 opens and closes in a manner in which the front end 5f side of the door 5, on which the door-side engaging portion 31 is provided, moves in the vehicle longitudinal direction, and the rear end 5r side thereof moves in the vehicle width direction.

[0036] Specifically, for example, when the door 5 is closing toward the fully closed position P0, the door 5 is inclined such that the rear end 5r side thereof protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction (upward in each drawing) relative to the front end 5f side. At this time, the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 are engaged with each other, and a driving force of the actuator 25 or a manual operating force is applied in the direction of closing the door 5. Furthermore, the force that closes the door 5 operates the connecting length variable mechanism 35 provided on the second link arm 12, thereby extending the connecting length L of the door 5 by the second link arm 12 based on the engagement state between the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to fully close the door 5 supported by the link mechanism 15 in such a manner that the front end 5f side describes a linear sliding path Rs while the rear end 5r side moves inward in the vehicle width direction.

[0037] Furthermore, when the door 5 is opened from the fully closed position P0, the driving force of the actuator 25 or a manual operating force is applied in the direction of the door 5 opening while the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 are engaged. Furthermore, the variable connection length mechanism 35 operates based on the force that opens the door 5, thereby shortening the connection length L of the door 5 by the second link arm 12 based on the engagement state between the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the door 5 supported by the link mechanism 15 opens in a manner in which the front end 5f side describes a linear sliding path Rs while the rear end 5r side moves outward in the vehicle width direction.

[0038] (Door side engagement part and vehicle body side engagement part) Next, the configurations of the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment will be described.

[0039] As shown in Figures 7 and 9 to 14, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the door-side engaging portion 31 includes a shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 extending in the up-down direction of the vehicle 1 (a direction perpendicular to the paper surface in Figures 7 and 12, the up-down direction in Figures 11 and 13). The vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 includes a pair of side wall portions 42a, 42b facing each other in the vehicle width direction (the up-down direction in Figures 7 and 12, the left-right direction in Figure 13) and includes a guide groove 42 extending in the opening and closing direction of the door 5. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that, when the door 5 is in the vicinity of the fully closed position P0, the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 engage with each other with the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 disposed in the guide groove 42.

[0040] 7 and 12, the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 of the door-side engaging portion 31 is disposed in the guide groove 42 of the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 in a state where the door 5 is sandwiched between a pair of side wall portions 42a, 42b facing each other in the vehicle width direction, thereby restricting displacement of the door 5 in the vehicle width direction. This makes it possible for the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment to stably support the door 5 even at opening / closing operation positions near the fully closed position P0 where the first and second link arms 11, 12 are likely to be aligned (see FIGS. 3 and 4).

[0041] Furthermore, when the door 5 opens or closes in this state, the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 apparently displaces relatively along the extension direction of the guide groove 42 while the connection length L changes based on the operation of the connection length variable mechanism 35. This changes the opening / closing movement locus R of the door 5, that is, the arc-shaped glide locus Rg based on the operation of the link mechanism 15 changes to a linear slide locus Rs.

[0042] 10 to 16, the door-side engaging portion 31 of this embodiment includes a support bracket 44 fixed to an installation surface 43 (see FIG. 7) set at the closing-side end 33 of the door 5. Specifically, the support bracket 44 includes a pair of support walls 45, 45 facing each other in the vertical direction (the vertical direction in FIGS. 15 and 16) and a pair of flange portions 46, 46 provided at the base end of each of the support walls 45, 45. In the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the support walls 45, 45 and the flange portions 46, 46 are integrally formed by bending a metal plate. The installation surface 43 on the door 5 side to which the support bracket 44 is fixed is set at the front end 5f of the door 5, which is the closing-side end 33, in the direction in which the door 5 closes, i.e., at a position facing the front of the vehicle. The support bracket 44 of this embodiment is configured so that the pair of flange portions 46, 46 are fastened to the installation surface 43 on the door 5 side.

[0043] The door-side engaging portion 31 of this embodiment also includes a support shaft 47 that spans between a pair of support walls 45 that constitute the support bracket 44. In the support bracket 44 of this embodiment, the support shaft 47 is provided at the tip of the support walls 45 that protrude toward the front of the vehicle from a mounting surface 43 on the door 5 side that is set at the front end 5f of the support bracket 44. Furthermore, the door-side engaging portion 31 also includes a roller 48 that is rotatably supported by the support shaft 47. Thus, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the roller 48 functions as the shaft-like engaging portion 41 of the door-side engaging portion 31 that is rotatably supported by the roller 48.

[0044] 10 to 14, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the vehicle body side engaging portion 32 includes a guide member 50 that forms the guide groove 42. The vehicle body side engaging portion 32 of this embodiment includes a fixing bracket 53 that fixes the guide member 50 to an installation surface 52 set at the closed end 34 of the door opening 3.

[0045] More specifically, in the vehicle 1 of this embodiment, the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side to which the guide member 50 and the fixing bracket 53 are fixed is set at a position facing the outer side in the vehicle width direction (lower side in FIG. 12, left side in FIG. 13) at the front edge 3f of the door opening 3. The fixing bracket 53 of this embodiment is configured to fix the guide member 50 in a state in which the formation portion of the guide groove 42 provided in the guide member 50 is sandwiched between the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side.

[0046] Specifically, the guide member 50 of this embodiment has a fixed surface 54 that faces a mounting surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side, and a first opposing surface 55 that faces outward in the vehicle width direction when the guide member 50 is fixed to the mounting surface 52. That is, in the guide member 50 of this embodiment, the fixed surface 54 and the first opposing surface 55 face in opposite directions. Furthermore, the guide member 50 is provided with an engagement piece 57 that has a second opposing surface 56 that faces the first opposing surface 55. The guide member 50 of this embodiment is configured so that the first opposing surface 55 and the second opposing surface 56 form the guide groove 42 as a pair of side wall portions 42a, 42b that face each other in the vehicle width direction.

[0047] That is, in the guide member 50 of this embodiment, the engagement piece 57 has a generally plate-like outer shape that protrudes toward the rear of the vehicle (from left to right in FIG. 12) from the front end 50f of the guide member 50 that is disposed on the front side of the vehicle when the guide member 50 is fixed to the installation surface 52. The guide member 50 of this embodiment is thus configured to form the guide groove 42 that opens in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1 and toward the rear of the vehicle.

[0048] Furthermore, the fixed bracket 53 of this embodiment has an outer shape that is generally U-shaped in cross section and covers the front end 50f of the guide member 50 that forms the guide groove 42. Specifically, the fixed bracket 53 includes a restricting wall 61 that abuts against the engaging piece 57 provided on the front end 50f of the guide member 50 from the outer side in the vehicle width direction. Furthermore, the fixed bracket 53 includes a pair of side wall portions 62, 62 that are continuous with the restricting wall 61 and cover the guide member 50 in the up-down direction. The fixed bracket 53 also includes a pair of flange portions 63, 63 provided at the base end of each of the side wall portions 62, 62.

[0049] The fixed bracket 53 of this embodiment is formed by bending a metal plate, so that the restricting wall 61, the side wall portions 62, 62, and the flange portions 63, 63 are integrally formed. Furthermore, the pair of flange portions 63, 63 of the fixed bracket 53 are fastened to the installation surface 52 of the vehicle body 2. The fixed bracket 53 of this embodiment is configured so that the front end portion 50f of the guide member 50 including the engaging piece 57, i.e., the portion where the guide groove 42 is formed, is sandwiched between the restricting wall 61 and the installation surface 52 of the vehicle body 2.

[0050] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9 to 14, 17, and 18 to 20, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, there are differences in the shapes of the guide members 50 that constitute the two vehicle body side engagement portions 32, 32 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0051] More specifically, the guide member 50 of this embodiment has a guide surface 65 that is continuous with the guide groove 42. Specifically, this guide surface 65 is provided on a rear end portion 50r of the guide member 50 that is disposed on the vehicle rear side when the guide member 50 is fixed to the installation surface 52. Furthermore, this guide surface 65 is provided continuous with the first opposing surface 55 of the guide member 50, that is, one side wall portion 42a that constitutes the guide groove 42, while facing outward in the vehicle width direction. That is, the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 that engages with and disengages from the guide groove 42 of the guide member 50 based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5 abuts against this guide surface 65, and is guided in a direction to enter the guide groove 42 and a direction to leave the guide groove 42. In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the portion where this guide surface 65 is formed is different in shape between the first guide member 71 that constitutes the upper vehicle body side engaging portion 32a and the second guide member 72 that constitutes the lower vehicle body side engaging portion 32b.

[0052] 12 and 14, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first guide member 71 is provided with a guide protrusion 73 that protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction when the first guide member 71 is fixed to the installation surface 52. That is, the guide protrusion 73 is provided to protrude in the direction of contact and separation of the shaft-shaped engagement portion 41 based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5. Specifically, the guide protrusion 73 has a generally triangular plate-like outer shape such that the protrusion amount α gradually increases from the front end 50f side toward the rear end 50r side of the guide member 50. The first guide member 71 is configured such that an inclined surface 74 formed by the guide protrusion 73 and facing outward in the vehicle width direction serves as its guide surface 65.

[0053] That is, by using such an inclined surface 74 as the guide surface 65 of the guide member 50, when the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 of the door-side engaging portion 31 abuts against the guide surface 65, the abutment angle of the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 with the guide surface 65 becomes shallow. Thus, the first guide member 71 is configured to absorb the impact acting when the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 abuts against the guide surface 65.

[0054] In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the inclined surface 74 of the guide protrusion 73 that forms the guide surface 65 is a curved surface with a substantially constant curvature such that the inclination becomes gentler the closer it is to the guide groove 42. Thus, even if the abutment position of the shaft-shaped engagement portion 41 with the first guide member 71 is shifted during the closing operation of the door 5 due to tolerances or the like, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment can preferably mitigate the impact caused by this abutment.

[0055] 18 to 20, the second guide member 72 constituting the lower vehicle body side engaging portion 32b is not provided with the above-described guide protrusion 73. As a result, the second guide member 72 is configured to have a substantially flat guide surface 65.

[0056] That is, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment supports the door 5 so that it can be opened and closed by the link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11, 12. Therefore, the posture of the door 5 is likely to change at opening and closing operation positions near the fully closed position P0 where the first and second link arms 11, 12 are close to each other and aligned linearly. This may cause a difference in the engagement and disengagement posture of the shaft-shaped engagement portion 41 with respect to the guide groove 42 between the vehicle body side engagement portion 32a and the vehicle body side engagement portion 32b above the door 5.

[0057] 8 and 9, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the upper vehicle body-side engaging portion 32a is provided at a first vertical position Y1 corresponding to the first link arm 11 positioned on the main link 21. The lower vehicle body-side engaging portion 32b is provided at a second vertical position Y2 corresponding to the second link arm 12 positioned as the sub-link 22. This tends to make the difference in the engagement and disengagement postures as described above more noticeable.

[0058] Specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first vertical position Y1 corresponding to the first link arm 11 is set to a vertical position closer to the support position of the door 5 by the first link arm 11 than the support position of the door 5 by the second link arm 12. The second vertical position Y2 corresponding to the second link arm 12 is set to a vertical position closer to the support position of the door 5 by the second link arm 12 than the support position of the door 5 by the first link arm 11.

[0059] That is, as described above, the first link arm 11 has the second pivot connection point X2 with respect to the door 5 at a position closer to the center of gravity G of the door 5 than the second link arm 12. Furthermore, the second link arm 12 is provided with a connection length variable mechanism 35 that can change the connection length L between the first and second pivot connection points X1, X2. Therefore, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the lower the door 5 supported by the second link arm 12, the greater the change in posture of the door 5. As a result, the lower vehicle body side engaging portion 32b is more susceptible to change in the engagement / disengagement posture of the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 with respect to the guide groove 42 than the upper vehicle body side engaging portion 32a.

[0060] In consideration of this point, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, for the first guide member 71 constituting the upper vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32a, the guide surface 65 formed by the guide protrusion 73 defines the engagement and disengagement trajectory of the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 with respect to this first guide member 71. On the other hand, for the second guide member 72 constituting the lower vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32b, such a guide protrusion 73 is not provided, thereby increasing the degree of freedom of engagement and disengagement of the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 with respect to this second guide member 72. Thus, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, when the corresponding shaft-shaped engaging portions 41, 41 engage with and disengage from the first and second guide members 71, 72, these shaft-shaped engaging portions 41, 41 are less likely to get caught.

[0061] This phenomenon of the first and second guide members 71, 72, which are spaced apart in the vertical direction, getting caught on the shaft-shaped engaging portions 41, 41 is likely to occur, for example, when the door 5 is opened from the fully closed position P0, which may cause the door 5 to swing. However, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, swinging of the door 5 caused by such getting caught is suppressed. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 is configured to ensure an excellent operating feel for the door 5.

[0062] 12, 14, 17, and 21, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first guide member 71 is provided with a buffer member 80 having elasticity to absorb the impact when the axial engagement portion 41 that moves relatively based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5 abuts against the first guide member 71.

[0063] More specifically, in the first guide member 71, the buffer member 80 is provided on the guide surface 65 formed by the guide protrusion 73 and on the first opposing surface 55 constituting the side wall portion 42a of the guide groove 42. That is, the buffer member 80 is provided at a position where the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 of the door-side engaging portion 31, which moves relatively based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5, abuts against the first guide member 71. The buffer member 80 is also provided on a fixed surface 54 relative to the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2. That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the buffer member 80 and the installation surface 52 are located on an extension line of the direction in which the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 of the door-side engaging portion 31 approaches and moves away from the first guide member 71 based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5. Furthermore, the buffer member 80 has a plurality of protrusions 80x that abut against the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2. The first guide member 71 is configured to be fixed to the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side with these protrusions 80x in a crushed state.

[0064] More specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first guide member 71 includes a base member 81 having the guide groove 42, and a cover 82 that covers the base member 81. The first guide member 71 is configured such that the cover 82 functions as the buffer member 80.

[0065] Specifically, a relatively hard material such as fiber-reinforced plastic is used for the base member 81. An elastic material such as rubber or elastomer is used for the cover 82. In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the base member 81 and the cover 82 constituting the buffer member 80 are integrally formed by insert molding.

[0066] 12, 14, and 17 to 20, the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment includes a connecting shaft 83 that penetrates the guide member 50 and the fixed bracket 53. Specifically, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, an insertion hole 84 that extends in the vertical direction is formed in the rear end portion 50r of the guide member 50 when the guide member 50 is fixed to an installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side. Furthermore, each of the side wall portions 62 of the fixed bracket 53 has through holes 85 that are formed in positions corresponding to the insertion hole 84. The connecting shaft 83 of this embodiment is inserted through the insertion hole 84 and the through holes 85, and thereby connects the guide member 50 and the fixed bracket 53 while penetrating the guide member 50 and the fixed bracket 53 in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1.

[0067] 12 and 20, the connecting shaft 83 penetrates the guide member 50 and the fixed bracket 53 in a state parallel to the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side and the restricting wall 61 of the fixed bracket 53 that sandwiches the guide member 50 between the installation surface 52. The connecting shaft 83 in this embodiment is therefore configured to extend in a direction that intersects with the vehicle front-rear direction in which the guide groove 42 extends.

[0068] That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, when the axial engaging portion 41 of the door-side engaging portion 31 abuts against the guide member 50, the connecting shaft 83 serves as a support shaft to determine the direction in which the guide member 50 tends to displace. Specifically, the guide member 50 tends to rotate around the connecting shaft 83 due to the abutment of the axial engaging portion 41. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the movement of the guide member 50 is restricted by the installation surface 52 on the vehicle body 2 side or the restricting wall 61 of the fixed bracket 53, which is positioned in the rotation direction.

[0069] For example, when the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41, which is about to engage with the guide groove 42 due to the closing operation of the door 5, abuts against the guide member 50, the guide member 50 attempts to rotate (clockwise in each drawing) around the connecting shaft 83 and displace inward in the vehicle width direction (upward in each drawing). In this case, the front end portion 50f of the guide member 50 abuts against the installation surface 52 located in the rotation direction, thereby restricting the displacement of the guide member 50 based on the pressing force of the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41.

[0070] On the other hand, when the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41, which is about to come off the guide groove 42 due to the opening operation of the door 5, abuts against the guide member 50, the guide member 50 also tries to rotate (counterclockwise in each drawing) around the connecting shaft 83 and displace outward in the vehicle width direction (downward in each drawing). In this case, the front end portion 50f of the guide member 50 abuts against the restricting wall 61 of the fixed bracket 53, which is positioned in the rotation direction, so that the displacement of the guide member 50 based on the pressing force of the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 is restricted.

[0071] 12, 14, and 17 to 20, the guide member 50 of this embodiment has a frame-shaped portion 86 that is disposed at a position that serves as the entrance of the guide groove 42. Specifically, the frame-shaped portion 86 has a generally rectangular frame-like outer shape that opens toward the rear of the vehicle. Furthermore, the frame-shaped portion 86 is provided in a manner that connects the tip 57a of the engagement piece 57, which is the portion where the guide groove 42 is formed, to the rear end portion 50r of the guide member 50. The guide member 50 of this embodiment is configured so that the shaft-shaped engagement portion 41 enters the guide groove 42 through the frame-shaped portion 86, which serves as the entrance.

[0072] Furthermore, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the frame-shaped portion 86 is disposed at a position that covers the rear end surface 53x of the fixed bracket 53, more specifically, the rear end portion (the right end portion in each drawing) of the generally U-shaped cross section formed by the restricting wall 61 and the side wall portions 62, 62. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to protect the rear end surface 53x of the fixed bracket 53 from contact with, for example, a user.

[0073] (Second link arm and variable connection length mechanism) Next, the configuration of the second link arm 12 having the configuration of the sub-link 22 and the variable connection length mechanism 35 provided on this second link arm 12 will be described.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 22 to 25 , in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the second link arm 12 has a vehicle-body-side link 91 having a first rotation connection point X1 with respect to the vehicle body 2, and a door-side link 92 having a second rotation connection point X2 with respect to the door 5. Specifically, the vehicle-body-side link 91 is connected to the vehicle body 2 via a vehicle-body bracket 93 provided in the vicinity of the rear edge 3r of the door opening 3. The door-side link 92 is connected to the door 5 via a door bracket 94 fixed to the inner surface 5s of the door 5. Furthermore, the second link arm 12 has a configuration in which the vehicle-body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 are rotatably connected. In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the joint link mechanism 100 formed thereby constitutes the variable connection length mechanism 35.

[0075] 22 and 23, the door-side link 92 of this embodiment has a so-called mini-arm configuration with a shorter axial length than the vehicle-body-side link 91. The vehicle-body-side link 91 has a vehicle-body-side coupling portion 101 for the vehicle body 2 at one end in the longitudinal direction. The door-side link 92 also has a door-side coupling portion 102 for the door 5 at one end in the longitudinal direction. The vehicle-body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 have intermediate coupling portions 103, 104 at the other end in the longitudinal direction, respectively, which couple them to each other.

[0076] That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, these intermediate connectors 103, 104 form an intermediate connection point X3 of the articulated link mechanism 100 provided on the second link arm 12. In addition, the second link arm 12 forms a triangle with the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92, with the intermediate connection point X3 as the apex. As a result, when the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 rotate relative to each other, the length of the straight line connecting the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2, which form the base of the triangle, i.e., the connection length L, changes.

[0077] 22, 23, 26, and 27, in this embodiment, the intermediate connection point X3 between the vehicle-body link 91 and the door-side link 92 is located closer to the inner surface 5s of the door 5 than the second pivot connection point X2 with respect to the door 5. Note that the door 5 of this embodiment has a recess 105 formed on its inner surface 5s to avoid contact with the intermediate connections 103, 104 of the vehicle-body link 91 and the door-side link 92 that constitute the intermediate connection point X3. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the connection length L between the vehicle body 2 and the door 5 by the second link arm 12 changes in a manner that the intermediate connection point X3 apparently rotates around the second pivot connection point X2 based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5.

[0078] 26 to 29, the vehicle body side link 91 of this embodiment has a long, generally shaft-like outer shape. Furthermore, the vehicle body side link 91 has a crank-shaped bent portion 106. This prevents interference between the second link arm 12 and the rear edge 3r of the door opening 3, and ensures a larger door opening amount when the door 5 is fully opened.

[0079] Also, as shown in Figures 28 to 30, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the door-side link 92 has a pair of clamping portions 107, 107 that are rotatably connected to the intermediate connecting portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 in a state in which the clamping portions 107, 107 sandwich the intermediate connecting portion 103.

[0080] Specifically, these clamping portions 107 have a door-side connecting portion 102 for the door 5 at one longitudinal end thereof, and an intermediate connecting portion 104 for the door-side link 92 at the other longitudinal end thereof. The door-side link 92 of this embodiment is formed integrally with these clamping portions 107 by bending a metal plate material, so that the intermediate connecting portion 104 has a connecting portion 108. Furthermore, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the intermediate connecting portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 also has a substantially flat plate-like outer shape. The second link arm 12 is configured to clamp the intermediate connecting portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 between the intermediate connecting portions 104 of the door-side link 92 formed by the pair of clamping portions 107 each having a bent plate shape.

[0081] In the door-side link 92 of this embodiment, the clamping portions 107, 107 have a cross-sectional shape like a bent plate such that the other longitudinal ends constituting the door-side connecting portion 102 are spaced apart from each other. As a result, the door-side link 92 of this embodiment is configured such that the clamping portions 107, 107 are rotatably connected to the door 5 at positions spaced apart in the up-down direction.

[0082] More specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the door bracket 94 fixed to the inner surface 5s of the door 5 has a pair of connecting walls 110, 110 that have a generally flat plate-like outer shape and are opposed to each other in the vertical direction. The door-side link 92 has door-side connecting portions 102, 102 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction and formed by a pair of clamping portions 107, 107, connected to each of the connecting walls 110, 110.

[0083] The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment also includes a pair of support shafts 112 that are provided coaxially with a second rotation connection point X2 formed by the door-side connecting portions 102 of the door-side link 92 and the connecting walls 110 of the door bracket 94. In the door bracket 94 of this embodiment, one of the support shafts 112 is erected so as to protrude upward from the connecting wall 110 above it. The other of the support shafts 112 is erected so as to protrude downward from the connecting wall 110 below it. Furthermore, torsion coil springs 113 are fitted onto the support shafts 112, respectively. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the door-side link 92 is rotationally biased by the torsion coil springs 113 as biasing members 115.

[0084] 31 and 32, these torsion coil springs 113 generate a biasing force F that rotates the vehicle body link 91 and the door link 92 relative to each other in a direction that shortens the connection length L between the first and second rotational connection points X1 and X2. As a result, in the second link arm 12, the connection length L between the first and second rotational connection points X1 and X2 becomes shorter than the fully closed position P0 based on the opening operation of the door 5 (see FIGS. 22 and 23). As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the door 5 opens and closes with the connection length L between the first and second rotational connection points X1 and X2 of the second link arm 12 shortened (see FIGS. 3 to 6).

[0085] 28 and 30 to 32, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, a stopper 116 is provided on the door bracket 94. Specifically, when the door 5 performs an opening operation from the fully closed position P0, the stopper 116 comes into contact with the connection portion 108 of the door-side link 92 as the intermediate connection point X3 of the vehicle-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 apparently rotates around the second rotation connection point X2. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to ensure a stable opening and closing operation posture of the door 5 supported by the second link arm 12.

[0086] 31 and 32, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the biasing force F of the biasing member 115 changes based on the relative rotation of the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 that constitute the joint link mechanism 100. Specifically, when the door 5 performs an opening operation from the fully closed position P0, the component force F' of the biasing force F in the second link arm 12 along the connecting length direction becomes stronger than that at the fully closed position P0. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to ensure good fitment of the door 5 by reducing the component force F' of the biasing force F along the connecting length direction when the door 5 is in the fully closed state.

[0087] More specifically, as shown in Figures 28 to 34, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment includes an engaging protrusion 121 provided on the vehicle body side link 91, and a cam member 123 provided on the door 5, having a cam groove 122 with which the engaging protrusion 121 engages.

[0088] Specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the vehicle body side link 91 has an upwardly protruding spindle 124 provided near the intermediate connection portion 103 with the door side link 92, and a roller 125 rotatably supported by this spindle 124. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that this roller 125 functions as the engaging protrusion 121.

[0089] In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the cam member 123 is provided integrally with the upper connecting wall 110a of the door bracket 94 to which the door-side link 92 is connected. That is, the cam member 123 has a substantially flat plate-like outer shape. Furthermore, the cam member 123 is disposed above the vehicle-body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 so as to cover the upper sides of the intermediate connecting portions 103, 104. The cam member 123 of this embodiment includes a cam groove 122 that is provided so as to penetrate the cam member 123 in the up-down direction.

[0090] Specifically, the cam groove 122 of this embodiment has an arc-shaped portion 126 that protrudes inward in the vehicle width direction (lower side in FIGS. 31 to 34 ) when a cam member 123 formed integrally with the door bracket 94 is fixed to the inner surface 5s of the door 5. The cam groove 122 also has a linear portion 127 that is continuous with the arc-shaped portion 126 and extends toward the rear of the vehicle. Furthermore, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment has a roller 125 that serves as the engaging protrusion 121 disposed in the cam groove 122. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the roller 125 moves within the cam groove 122 while sliding against the cam groove 122 based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5.

[0091] That is, in an opening / closing operation position near the fully closed position P0 where the front end 5 f of the door 5 traces a linear slide locus Rs due to the engagement between the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32, the roller 125 moves within the linear portion 127 of the cam groove 122. In addition, in a range where the front end 5 f of the door 5 traces an arc-shaped glide locus Rg during opening / closing operation due to the disengagement between the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32, the roller 125 moves within the arc-shaped portion 126 of the cam groove 122. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the opening / closing operation locus R of the door 5 is defined.

[0092] Specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the relative rotation between the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 is limited depending on the engagement position of the roller 125 in the cam groove 122. In other words, the connection length L of the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2 formed by the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 is determined based on the operation of the connection length variable mechanism 35. Similarly, based on the engagement position of the roller 125 in the cam groove 122, the rotation of the door 5 is restricted around the second rotation connection point X2 formed by the door-side link 92. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to determine the opening / closing operation locus R of the door 5.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 35, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is provided with a buffer member 131 interposed between the vehicle body 2 and the second link arm 12 as a stopper when the door 5 is in the fully open position P1.

[0094] More specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the buffer member 131 is made of a relatively soft elastic material such as rubber or elastomer. The buffer member 131 is provided on the vehicle body link 91 having a first rotation connection point X1 with respect to the vehicle body 2. Specifically, the buffer member 131 is fixed to a crank-shaped bent portion 106 provided on the vehicle body link 91. As a result, the second link arm 12 rotates around the first rotation connection point X1 and the door 5 reaches the fully open position P1, so that the buffer member 131 of this embodiment is sandwiched between the vehicle body link 91 and the rear edge 3r of the door opening 3.

[0095] That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the buffer member 131 supports the door 5 that has reached the fully open position P1 on the vehicle body 2 in a state where it is crushed between the vehicle body-side link 91 and the rear edge 3r of the door opening 3. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to suppress the swinging of the door 5 and stably hold it at the fully open position P1.

[0096] 29, 35, and 36, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the vehicle-body-side coupling portion 101 provided on the vehicle-body-side link 91 has a substantially flat plate-like outer shape. Furthermore, the vehicle-body bracket 93 that supports the vehicle-body-side link 91 on the vehicle body 2 has a pair of coupling walls 132, 132 that are arranged to sandwich the vehicle-body-side coupling portion 101 in the vertical direction. In the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, a pivot axis of the vehicle-body-side link 91 relative to the vehicle body 2 is formed around a support shaft 133 that vertically penetrates the vehicle-body-side coupling portion 101 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 and both coupling walls 132, 132 of the vehicle-body bracket 93. In other words, the support shaft 133 serves as the support shaft N2a of the second link arm 12 relative to the door 5, and forms a first pivot connection point X1.

[0097] More specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the vehicle body bracket 93, including both connecting walls 132, 132 thereof, is formed by bending a metal plate material. Furthermore, both connecting walls 132, 132 of the vehicle body bracket 93 and the vehicle body-side connecting portion 101 of the vehicle body-side link 91 are provided with through holes 134, 134 and a through hole 135, respectively, that penetrate the substantially flat plate-like shapes in the thickness direction. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment also includes a bush 138 as a cylindrical buffer member 137 that is fitted into the through hole 135 of the vehicle body-side connecting portion 101 that has a configuration as the plate-like connecting portion 136.

[0098] Specifically, the bushing 138 is made of a relatively soft, elastic material such as rubber or elastomer. The support shaft 133 is inserted through the bushing 138 into a through hole 135 provided in the vehicle body-side connecting portion 101 of the vehicle body-side link 91. Both axial ends of the support shaft 133 are inserted into through holes 134, 134 provided in both connecting walls 132, 132 of the vehicle body bracket 93, so that the support shaft 133 is supported by the vehicle body bracket 93 in a state extending in the vertical direction.

[0099] That is, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the vehicle-body-side link 91 rotates around the support shaft 133, thereby forming a first rotation connection point X1 of the second link arm 12 with respect to the vehicle body 2. In the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, a gap is provided between the vehicle-body-side connecting portion 101 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 and both connecting walls 132, 132 of the vehicle-body bracket 93 that sandwich the vehicle-body-side connecting portion 101 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the bush 138 serving as the cylindrical buffer member 137 elastically deforms, thereby allowing displacement of the vehicle-body-side connecting portion 101 configured as the plate-like connecting portion 136. In other words, vertical displacement of the second link arm 12, including tilting relative to the support shaft N2a, is allowed. Thus, the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment is configured to increase the degree of freedom of connection of the second link arm 12 with respect to the vehicle body 2.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 30, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the intermediate connection point X3 formed by the intermediate connection portions 103, 104 of the vehicle body side link 91 and the door side link 92 also has a similar connection structure.

[0101] That is, the intermediate connecting portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 and the two intermediate connecting portions 104, 104 of the door-side link 92, which are arranged on either side of the intermediate connecting portion 103 in the vertical direction, also have a generally flat plate-like outer shape. Each of these intermediate connecting portions 103, 104, 104 is provided with a through hole 143 and a through hole 144, 144 that penetrate the generally flat plate-like shape in the thickness direction. Similarly to the vehicle-body-side connecting portion 101 of the vehicle-body-side link 91, the intermediate connecting portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91, which has the configuration of the plate-like connecting portion 136, has a bushing 138, which serves as a cylindrical buffer member 137, fitted into the through hole 143 provided therein.

[0102] The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment also has a support shaft 149 that is inserted through a through hole 143 provided in the intermediate connecting portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 via the bush 138. Furthermore, both axial ends of the support shaft 149 are inserted through through holes 144, 144 provided in both intermediate connecting portions 104, 104 of the door-side link 92. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the vehicle-body-side links 91 and 91 that constitute the second link arm 12 rotate relatively around the support shaft 149, thereby forming an intermediate connecting point X3.

[0103] Furthermore, at this intermediate connection point X3 as well, the bushing 138 serving as the cylindrical buffer member 137 is elastically deformed, thereby allowing the intermediate connection portion 103 of the vehicle-body-side link 91 configured as the plate-like connection portion 136 to tilt relative to the support shaft 149. As a result, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the degree of freedom of connection between the vehicle-body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 at the intermediate connection point X3 is increased.

[0104] (First link arm) Next, the configuration of the first link arm 11 having the configuration as the main link 21 will be described.

[0105] 24 and 37 to 39, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first link arm 11 includes a pair of pipe frames 151, 151 arranged side by side one above the other. The first link arm 11 includes a base end bracket 153 connecting base end portions of both the pipe frames 151, 151, and a tip end bracket 154 connecting tip end portions of both the pipe frames 151, 151.

[0106] The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment also includes a vehicle body bracket 155 to which a base end bracket 153 constituting the first link arm 11 is rotatably connected while being fixed near the rear edge 3r of the door opening 3. The vehicle door device 20 also includes a door bracket 156 to which a tip end bracket 154 constituting the first link arm 11 is rotatably connected while being fixed to the inner surface 5s of the door 5. Thus, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, first and second rotation connection points X1, X2 of the first link arm 11 are formed.

[0107] More specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the base end bracket 153 constituting the base end portion 11a of the first link arm 11 includes a base portion 160 that extends in the vertical direction and connects the pair of pipe frames 151, 151. The base end bracket 153 also includes a pair of connecting portions 161, 161 that extend from the upper and lower ends of the base portion 160 in a direction opposite to the extension direction of both pipe frames 151, 151 connected to the base portion 160. Furthermore, the vehicle body bracket 155 is provided with a pair of connecting portions 162, 162 to which the connecting portions 161, 161 are independently connected. In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the connecting portions 161, 161 of the base end bracket 153 and the connecting portions 162, 162 of the vehicle body bracket 155 are each independently connected to be rotatable around support shafts 163, 163 extending in the vertical direction.

[0108] That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the base end portion 11a of the first link arm 11 is rotatably connected to the vehicle body 2 at two positions spaced apart in the vertical direction. As a result, the support shafts 163, 163 serve as support shafts N1a of the first link arm 11 relative to the vehicle body 2, forming a first rotation connection point X1.

[0109] In the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, these support shafts 163, 163 are also inserted through bushings 138 serving as cylindrical buffer members 137 fitted to the connecting portions 161, 161 of the substantially flat plate-shaped base end bracket 153. That is, as with the second link arm 12, the bushings 138 also elastically deform at the first pivot connection point X1 of the first link arm 11, allowing displacement of the connecting portions 161, 161 of the base end bracket 153 as the plate-shaped connecting portion 136, as in the case of the second link arm 12. Thus, the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment is configured to increase the degree of freedom of connection of the first link arm 11 to the vehicle body 2 by allowing vertical displacement of the second link arm 12, including tilting relative to the support shaft N1a.

[0110] Meanwhile, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the tip bracket 154 constituting the tip portion 11b of the first link arm 11 has a cover-like outer shape that covers the tip sides of the pair of pipe frames 151, 151. Specifically, the tip bracket 154 has a cover portion 164 that covers the tip sides of the pipe frames 151, 151 while being disposed more inward in the vehicle width direction than the pipe frames 151, 151. Note that in the vehicle door apparatus 20, the pipe frames 151, 151 are each fixed to the back surface of the cover portion 164 by, for example, welding. Thus, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the tip portions of the pipe frames 151, 151 constituting the first link arm 11 are configured to be connected by the tip bracket 154.

[0111] In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the tip bracket 154 is provided with a pair of connecting flanges 167, 167 that face each other in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the door bracket 156 that is fixed to the inner surface 5s of the door 5 is also provided with a pair of connecting flanges 168, 168 that face each other in the vertical direction. The connecting flanges 167, 167 of the tip bracket 154 and the connecting flanges 168, 168 of the door bracket 156 are rotatably connected to each other, thereby forming a second rotation connection point X2 of the first link arm 11.

[0112] Specifically, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is provided with a support shaft 170 that passes vertically through the connecting flanges 167, 167 of the tip bracket 154 and the connecting flanges 168, 168 of the door bracket 156. The connecting flanges 167, 167 of the tip bracket 154 and the connecting flanges 168, 168 of the door bracket 156 are configured to rotate relatively around the support shaft 170.

[0113] That is, in the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment, the connecting flanges 167, 167 and the connecting flanges 168, 168 are used as first and second rotational coupling portions 171, 172, and form the second rotational coupling point X2. Furthermore, the vehicle door apparatus 20 of this embodiment includes a friction member 175 interposed between the first and second rotational coupling portions 171, 172 and in sliding contact with the first and second rotational coupling portions 171, 172. Specifically, the friction member 175 is formed using a resin material with relatively high frictional resistance, such as nylon. Furthermore, the friction member 175 is surface-treated to increase its frictional resistance. This provides sliding resistance when the first and second rotational coupling portions 171, 172, which form the second rotational coupling point X2, rotate relative to each other.

[0114] More specifically, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the connecting flanges 168, 168 of the door bracket 156 are arranged inside the connecting flanges 167, 167 of the tip bracket 154 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0115] 40, in the lower connecting flanges 167a and 168a, the connecting flange 168a of the door bracket 156 is positioned higher than the connecting flange 167a of the tip bracket 154. The friction member 175 of this embodiment has an annular plate shape that is fitted onto the support shaft 170. In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the friction member 175 is provided in a state where it is sandwiched between the connecting flange 167a of the tip bracket 154 and the connecting flange 168a of the door bracket 156, which overlap in the vertical direction.

[0116] That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the load of the door 5 is applied to the friction member 175 via the connecting flange 168a of the door bracket 156 located above the friction member 175. This generates a frictional force between the friction member 175 and the connecting flange 167a of the end bracket 154 and the connecting flange 168a of the door bracket 156, which sandwich the friction member 175. Furthermore, the connecting flange 167a of the end bracket 154 and the connecting flange 168a of the door bracket 156 rotate relative to each other around the support shaft 170, thereby applying sliding resistance. Thus, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured to increase the operating resistance of the door 5 rotating about the second rotation connection point X2 formed by the first and second rotation connection portions 171, 172, thereby damping shaking and vibrations generated in the door 5.

[0117] (actuator) Next, the configuration of the actuator 25 in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment will be described.

[0118] As described above, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the actuator 25 that generates a driving force for opening and closing the door 5 is provided at the base end 11a of the first link arm 11. Furthermore, this actuator 25 uses the motor 25m as a driving source to rotationally drive the first link arm 11. The vehicle door device 20 is configured to open and close the door 5 supported on the vehicle body 2 via the link mechanism 15 based on the operation of the link mechanism 15 formed by the first link arm 11 and the second link arm 12 (see FIGS. 3 to 6).

[0119] More specifically, as shown in Figures 37 to 39 and 41, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the actuator 25 is arranged at the formation portion 180 of the first rotation connection point X1 of the first link arm 11 relative to the vehicle body 2.

[0120] Specifically, as described above, the first link arm 11 has its base end 11a rotatably connected to the vehicle body bracket 155 provided on the vehicle body 2 at two positions spaced apart in the vertical direction. The actuator 25 of this embodiment is disposed at a vertical position between the two connecting portions 161, 161 on the first link arm 11 side and the two connecting portions 162, 162 on the vehicle body bracket 155 side, which are rotatably connected at the two positions spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0121] That is, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the base end bracket 153 having a substantially U-shaped outer shape constitutes the base end portion 11a of the first link arm 11. Furthermore, the vehicle body bracket 155 also has a substantially U-shaped portion having two connecting portions 162, 162 spaced apart in the vertical direction. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the actuator 25 is disposed within a formation portion 180 of a first rotation connecting point X1 formed by connecting these two U-shaped members so as to be rotatable relative to one another.

[0122] In other words, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, the first rotation connection point X1 of the first link arm 11 with respect to the vehicle body 2 has an upper connection point 181 and a lower connection point 182 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction. The actuator 25 is provided at a position between the upper connection point 181 and the lower connection point 182 in a formation portion 180 of the first rotation connection point X1.

[0123] More specifically, in the actuator 25 of this embodiment, the motor 25m serving as a drive source is configured as a geared motor 183 with a reducer. The actuator 25 of this embodiment also includes a speed reduction mechanism 184 that further reduces the rotation speed of the motor 25m. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment also includes a sector gear 185 that protrudes from the base 160 of the base end bracket 153 that constitutes the base end 11a of the first link arm 11 and is disposed between the two connecting portions 161, 161. In the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, a pinion gear 186 of the speed reduction mechanism 184 meshes with the sector gear 185, thereby transmitting the drive force of the actuator 25 to the first link arm 11.

[0124] The actuator 25 of this embodiment is fixed to the vehicle body bracket 155 by using a fixing bracket 187. The vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment also includes a cover member 188 having a substantially U-shaped cross section. Furthermore, in the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment, flange portions 189, 189 provided on both ends of the U-shaped cover portion 188x of the cover member 188 are fixed to both connecting portions 162, 162 provided spaced apart in the vertical direction on the vehicle body bracket 155 side. As a result, the vehicle door device 20 of this embodiment is configured so that the cover member 188 covers the sides of the actuator 25 arranged in the formation portion 180 of the first rotation connecting point X1.

[0125] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described. That is, based on the driving force of the actuator 25, the first link arm 11 configured as a main link 21 rotates around a first rotation connection point X1 with respect to the vehicle body 2 on which the actuator 25 is provided. Furthermore, in conjunction with the first link arm 11, the second link arm 12 configured as a sub-link 22 similarly rotates around the first rotation connection point X1 with respect to the vehicle body 2. As a result, the door 5 supported by the link mechanism 15 formed by these first and second link arms 11, 12 opens and closes.

[0126] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. (1) The vehicle door device 20 includes first and second link arms 11 and 12, each having a first pivot connection point X1 relative to the vehicle body 2 and a second pivot connection point X2 relative to the door 5 of the vehicle 1. The vehicle door device 20 also includes an actuator 25 that drives a link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11 and 12 to open and close the door 5. The vehicle door device 20 also includes a variable connection length mechanism 35 that is provided on the second link arm 12 configured as a sub-link 22 and that can change the connection length L between the first and second pivot connection points X and X2. The vehicle door device 20 also changes the opening and closing movement locus R of the door 5 based on the operation of the variable connection length mechanism 35. The actuator 25 applies a driving force to the first link arm 11 configured as a main link 21 that does not include the variable connection length mechanism 35.

[0127] According to the above configuration, the degree of freedom of opening and closing operations can be increased based on the operation of the variable connection length mechanism 35 provided on the second link arm 12. Furthermore, when the door 5 is driven to open or close, the actuator 25 applies a driving force to the first link arm 11, which reduces the likelihood of vibrations occurring in the second link arm 12, which includes the variable connection length mechanism 35. That is, when a driving force is applied to the second link arm 12, the variable connection length mechanism 35 may be activated based on the driving force of the actuator 25, for example, by extending the connection length L prior to the opening or closing operation of the door 5 due to the inertia or frictional force of the door 5. This may result in vibrations occurring in the second link arm 12, which may cause the door 5 to sway. However, this problem does not occur with the first link arm 11, which does not include the variable connection length mechanism 35. This reduces the sway of the door 5 when the door 5 is opened or closed based on the driving force of the actuator 25. As a result, it is possible to avoid the complexity of the structure and the increase in weight that would otherwise occur if measures were taken to prevent the door 5 from shaking.

[0128] (2) The first link arm 11 has a second pivot connection point X2 connected to the door 5 at a position closer to the center of gravity G of the door 5 than the second link arm 12. According to the above configuration, the door 5 can be stably supported by the first link arm 11 positioned on the main link 21 that supports a larger load. By applying the driving force of the actuator 25 to the first link arm 11, the door 5 can be stably opened and closed while suppressing vibration.

[0129] (3) The actuator 25 is provided at the location 180 where the first rotation connection point X1 is formed. That is, by providing the actuator 25 on the base end portion 11a side of the first link arm 11, the supporting load can be reduced. Furthermore, a relatively large installation space can be secured compared to when it is disposed on the door 5 side. And, by integrating it with the formation portion 180 of the first rotation connection point X1, the device can be made compact.

[0130] (4) The first rotation connection point X1 of the first link arm 11 has an upper connection point 181 and a lower connection point 182 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction. The actuator 25 is provided at a position between the upper connection point 181 and the lower connection point 182.

[0131] According to the above configuration, the base end portion 11a of the first link arm 11 can be stably supported relative to the vehicle body 2. Furthermore, with a simple configuration, the actuator 25 can be disposed within the formation portion 180 of the first rotational connection point X1. This allows the actuator 25 and the first rotational connection point X1 to be integrally configured.

[0132] (5) The variable connection length mechanism 35 is configured as a joint link mechanism 100 that rotatably connects a vehicle body side link 91 having a first rotation connection point X1 and a door side link 92 having a second rotation connection point X2.

[0133] According to the above configuration, the base of a triangle formed by the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92, with the intermediate connection point X3 of the joint link mechanism 100 as its apex, is the connection length L between the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2. This makes it possible to change the connection length L based on the relative rotation between the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92.

[0134] Furthermore, such a joint link mechanism 100 has the characteristic of being less susceptible to the influence of the usage environment, such as foreign matter such as dust and dirt, or freezing, etc. This makes it possible to ensure high reliability and durability.

[0135] Furthermore, the joint link mechanism 100 has the advantage of having a high degree of freedom in the shapes of the vehicle body side link 91 and the door side link 92. For example, the vehicle body side link 91 can be bent to avoid interference with the door opening 3. This ensures a larger door opening amount when the door 5 is fully opened.

[0136] (6) The vehicle door device 20 includes a door-side engaging portion 31 provided at a closing end 33 of the door 5 that opens and closes the door opening 3 of the vehicle 1 based on the operation of the link mechanism 15 formed by the first and second link arms 11 and 12. The vehicle door device 20 further includes a vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 provided at a closing end 34 of the door opening 3 to which the closing end 33 of the door 5 moves, i.e., closer to or farther away from the door 5, based on the opening and closing operation of the door 5. The door-side engaging portion 31 includes a shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle 1, and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 includes a pair of side walls 42a, 42b facing each other in the vehicle width direction and a guide groove 42 extending in the opening and closing direction of the door 5. The shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 is disposed within the guide groove 42 at an opening and closing operation position near the fully closed position P0 of the door 5 where the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 engage with each other.

[0137] According to the above configuration, the displacement of the door 5 in the vehicle width direction is restricted by arranging the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 in the guide groove 42. This makes it possible to stably support the door 5 even at opening / closing operation positions near the fully closed position P0 where the first and second link arms 11, 12 tend to be close to each other and aligned in a straight line.

[0138] Furthermore, when the door-side engaging portion 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 are engaged with each other, the opening / closing movement locus R of the door 5 changes from the arc-shaped glide locus Rg to a linear slide locus Rs based on the operation of the variable connection length mechanism 35. This allows the door 5 to be smoothly closed to the fully closed position P0 and opened from the fully closed position P0.

[0139] The above embodiment can be modified as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other within the scope of technical compatibility.

[0140] In the above embodiment, the variable coupling length mechanism 35 is configured as a joint link mechanism 100 that rotatably connects the vehicle body-side link 91 having the first rotation connection point X1 and the door-side link 92 having the second rotation connection point X2. However, the configuration of the variable coupling length mechanism 35 is not limited to this, and may be changed as desired.

[0141] For example, a direct-acting telescopic link mechanism 200 as shown in FIGS. 42 and 43 may be provided on the second link arm 12D as its variable connection length mechanism 35. That is, the second link arm 12D shown in this example includes an outer tube 201 and an inner tube 202 that are concentrically arranged. Specifically, the outer tube 201 has a first pivot connection point X1 with respect to the vehicle body 2 at a first end 201a and an opening 201x at a second end 201b. The inner tube 202 has a second pivot connection point X2 with respect to the door 5 at a second end 202b and an opening 202x at a first end 202a. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the outer tube 201 is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the inner tube 202. The second link arm 12D is configured so that the outer tube 201 and the inner tube 202 are arranged concentrically by inserting the first end 202a side of the inner tube 202 into the cylindrical interior of the outer tube 201 from the second end 201b side.

[0142] That is, in the second link arm 12D shown in this alternative example, the outer tube 201 constitutes the vehicle body side link 91D, and the inner tube 202 constitutes the door side link 92D. When the outer tube 201 and the inner tube 202 are displaced relative to each other in the axial direction, the connection length L between the first and second rotation connection points X1 and X2 changes.

[0143] Specifically, the connection length L between the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2 is extended by the relative displacement of the inner tube 202 in the direction of being pulled out from the cylindrical interior of the outer tube 201. The connection length L between the first and second rotation connection points X1, X2 is shortened by the relative displacement of the inner tube 202 in the direction of being retracted into the cylindrical interior of the outer tube 201.

[0144] The second link arm 12D shown in this example is provided with a biasing member 205 that applies a tensile force in a direction that shortens the connection length L between the first and second rotational connection points X1, X2. The biasing member 205 may be, for example, a tension spring 206. The biasing force F generated by the biasing member 205 is used to maintain the connection length L between the first and second rotational connection points X1, X2 during the opening and closing operation of the door 5. Even with this configuration, the same effects as those of the above embodiment can be achieved.

[0145] In this alternative example, the telescopic link mechanism 200 is formed by using the long cylindrical outer tube 201 and inner tube 202, which are concentrically arranged, as the vehicle-side link 91D and the door-side link 92D. However, this is not limiting, and the vehicle-side link 91D and the door-side link 92D do not necessarily have to have a concentric cylindrical shape. As long as the vehicle-side link 91D and the door-side link 92D are arranged so as to be relatively displaceable along the axial direction, their shapes may be changed as desired.

[0146] In the above embodiment, the first link arm 11 configured as the main link 21 is positioned above the second link arm 12 configured as the sub-link 22. The second link arm 12 is positioned closer to the closing end 33 of the door 5 than the first link arm 11. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the positions of the first and second link arms 11, 12 may be changed as desired.

[0147] Furthermore, depending on the arrangement of the first and second link arms 11, 12 and the variable coupling length mechanism 35, when the door 5 closes to the fully closed position P0, the variable coupling length mechanism 35 may be actuated to extend the coupling length L between the first and second pivot coupling points X1, X2.

[0148] The biasing members 115, 205 of the variable coupling length mechanism 35 may be changed as desired. For example, other elastic members such as compression springs, or gas-type or electromagnetic-type biasing members may be used. Furthermore, depending on the arrangement of the variable coupling length mechanism 35, it may be configured to generate a biasing force in a direction that extends the coupling length L between the first and second pivotal coupling points X1, X2. Furthermore, the variable coupling length mechanism 35 may not be provided with a biasing member.

[0149] In the above embodiment, the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 is formed by the roller 48 supported by the support shaft 47, but the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41 does not necessarily have to rotate. In the above embodiment, the door-side engaging portion 31 has the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41, and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 has the guide groove 42. However, this is not limiting, and the door-side engaging portion 31 may have the guide groove 42, and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion 32 may have the shaft-shaped engaging portion 41.

[0150] The number and arrangement of the door-side engaging portions 31 and the vehicle-body-side engaging portions 32 may be changed as desired. Furthermore, the shape of the guide member 50 that forms the guide groove 42 and its fixing structure may be changed as desired. For example, the guide member 50 may be fixed directly to the installation surface 52 without using the fixing bracket 53. Furthermore, the guide member 50 may not have the buffer member 80. And, for example, the first and second guide members 71, 72 may have the same structure.

[0151] In the above embodiment, the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 that constitute the joint link mechanism 100 as the variable connection length mechanism 35 are configured as so-called mini-arms, with the door-side link 92 being shorter than the vehicle body-side link 91. However, the lengths of the vehicle body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 may be changed as desired. For example, the door-side link 92 may be longer than the vehicle body-side link 91.

[0152] The shapes of the vehicle-body-side link 91 and the door-side link 92 may be changed as desired. For example, in the above embodiment, the door-side link 92 is connected to the vehicle-body-side link 91 with the vehicle-body-side link 91 sandwiched therebetween, and includes a pair of clamping portions 107, 107 that are independently connected to the door 5. However, this is not limiting, and the door-side link 92 may also have a shaft-shaped outer shape like the vehicle-body-side link 91. The vehicle-body-side link 91 may also not have, for example, the crank-shaped bent portion 106. The vehicle-body-side link 91 may also have a plate-like, frame-like, or other outer shape.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the first rotation connection point X1 of the first link arm 11 has an upper connection point 181 and a lower connection point 182 that are spaced apart in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the actuator 25 is fixed to the vehicle body bracket 155 using the fixing bracket 187, with the actuator 25 located between the upper connection point 181 and the lower connection point 182. As a result, the actuator 25 is provided at a position 180 where the first rotation connection point X1 of the first link arm 11 with respect to the vehicle body 2 is formed.

[0154] However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of the base end portion 11a of the first link arm 11 and the vehicle body 2 side, which form the formation portion 180 of the first rotational connection point X1, may be changed as desired. That is, the shape of the base end bracket 153 forming the base end portion 11a of the first link arm 11 and the vehicle body bracket 155 provided on the vehicle body 2 side may be changed as desired. For example, it is not necessary to form the upper connection point 181 and the lower connection point 182 as described above. The configuration and fixing structure of the actuator 25 may also be changed as desired. The actuator 25 may be disposed outside the formation portion 180 of the first rotational connection point X1, for example, below or above it. However, from the viewpoint of making the device more compact, it is preferable to dispose the actuator 25 within the first rotational connection point X1.

[0155] Furthermore, the actuator 25 does not necessarily have to be held by the vehicle body 2, and may be held by the base end 11a of the first link arm 11, for example. Furthermore, the actuator 25 may be disposed on the door 5 side. In this case, the actuator 25 is not limited to being held by the door 5, and may be held by the tip end 11b of the first link arm 11.

[0156] In the above embodiment, the first link arm 11 has a configuration in which the base end portion and the tip end portion of a pair of pipe frames 151, 151 arranged side by side one above the other are connected by the base end bracket 153 and the tip end bracket 154, respectively. However, the configuration of the first link arm 11 is not limited to this, and may be changed as desired.

[0157] In the above embodiment, the second link arm 12 is provided with the variable coupling length mechanism 35. The driving force of the actuator 25 is applied to the first link arm 11, which is not provided with the variable coupling length mechanism 35. However, this is not limiting, and the first link arm 11 may be provided with the variable coupling length mechanism 35, and the driving force of the actuator 25 may be applied to the second link arm 12, which is not provided with the variable coupling length mechanism 35.

[0158] In the above embodiment, the door 5 of the vehicle 1 is configured to open toward the rear of the vehicle, but the door 5 may be configured to open toward the front of the vehicle. Next, the technical ideas that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described.

[0159] (i) The variable connection length mechanism is a direct-acting telescopic link mechanism in which a door-side link having the first pivotal connection point and a vehicle-body-side link having the second pivotal connection point are arranged so as to be relatively displaceable along the axial direction.

[0160] According to the above configuration, the connection length between the vehicle body side link and the door side link can be changed based on the relative displacement between them. [Explanation of symbols]

[0161] 2...Body 5...Door 11...First link arm 12...Second link arm 15...Link mechanism 20...Vehicle door device 25...Actuator 35... Variable connection length mechanism X1: First pivot point X2: Second pivot point L…Connection length R...Open / close movement locus

Claims

1. first and second link arms having a first pivot connection point to the vehicle body and a second pivot connection point to the vehicle door; an actuator that drives a link mechanism formed by the first and second link arms to open and close the door; a variable connection length mechanism provided on one of the first and second link arms and configured to change a connection length between the first and second pivot connection points, The opening and closing movement locus of the door changes based on the operation of the variable coupling length mechanism, the actuator applies a driving force to the other side of the first and second link arms, which is not provided with the variable coupling length mechanism; the actuator is provided at a location where the first rotation connection point is formed, the first pivot connection point has an upper connection point and a lower connection point spaced apart in the vertical direction, The actuator is provided at a position between the upper connection point and the lower connection point.

2. The vehicle door device according to claim 1, The actuator is provided on the first link arm, the first link arm has the second pivot connection point connected to the door at a position closer to the center of gravity of the door than the second link arm; A vehicle door device comprising:

3. first and second link arms having a first pivot connection point to the vehicle body and a second pivot connection point to the vehicle door; an actuator that drives a link mechanism formed by the first and second link arms to open and close the door; a variable connection length mechanism provided on one of the first and second link arms and configured to change a connection length between the first and second pivot connection points, The opening and closing movement locus of the door changes based on the operation of the variable coupling length mechanism, the actuator applies a driving force to the other side of the first and second link arms, which is not provided with the variable coupling length mechanism; The variable coupling length mechanism includes: The vehicle door device is a joint link mechanism formed by rotatably connecting a vehicle body side link having the first rotation connection point and a door side link having the second rotation connection point.

4. The vehicle door device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a door-side engaging portion provided at a closing end of the door that opens and closes a door opening of the vehicle based on the operation of the link mechanism; a vehicle body-side engaging portion provided at a closing-side end of the door opening, to which the closing-side end of the door comes into contact and separates based on opening and closing operations of the door, One side of the door-side engaging portion and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion includes a shaft-shaped engaging portion extending in the up-down direction of the vehicle, the other side of the door-side engaging portion and the vehicle-body-side engaging portion has a pair of side wall portions opposed to each other in the vehicle width direction and is provided with a guide groove extending in the direction of opening and closing the door, The vehicle door apparatus has a door opening / closing position where the door engaging portion and the vehicle body engaging portion are engaged with each other, the door having a shaft-shaped engaging portion disposed in the guide groove at a position near a fully closed position of the door.

Images