Vehicle parts and vehicle part assemblies

Abstract

To provide a component for a vehicle and a component assembly for a vehicle which can be stably mounted on a vehicle body in various mounted attitudes.SOLUTION: A component for a vehicle includes a housing, a first surface, a second surface, at least two first fixing parts, and at least one second fixing part. The first surface is provided on the housing, is directed in a first direction, and a bracket is superposed thereon. The second surface is provided on the housing, is directed in a second direction crossing the first direction, and the bracket is superposed thereon. At least the two first fixing parts are provided on the first surface, are arranged at an interval in a third direction crossing the first direction and the second direction, and the bracket is fixed thereto. At least the one second fixing part is provided on the second surface, and the bracket is fixed thereto. The two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are arranged at a position surrounding the center of gravity of the component for the vehicle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to vehicle parts and vehicle part assemblies.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, vehicle parts fixed to a vehicle body via brackets are known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It is desirable that this type of vehicle part can be stably attached to the vehicle body in various mounting positions.

[0005] Therefore, one of the problems of the present invention is to obtain a vehicle part and a vehicle part assembly that can be stably attached to the vehicle body in various mounting positions.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The vehicle component according to the present invention is a vehicle component that is fixed to the body of a vehicle via a bracket, and comprises a housing; a first surface provided on the housing and facing a first direction on which the bracket is superimposed; a second surface provided on the housing and facing a second direction intersecting the first direction on which the bracket is superimposed; at least two first fixing parts provided on the first surface and spaced apart in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, to which the bracket is fixed; and at least one second fixing part provided on the second surface to which the bracket is fixed, wherein the two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are positioned to surround the center of gravity of the vehicle component.

[0007] With this configuration, the two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are positioned to surround the center of gravity of the vehicle component, allowing the vehicle component to be stably attached to the vehicle body in various mounting positions.

[0008] In the aforementioned vehicle component, for example, the two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are positioned to surround the center of gravity of the vehicle component when viewed from at least two directions, namely the first, second, and third directions.

[0009] This configuration allows vehicle components to be stably attached to the vehicle body in various mounting positions.

[0010] The vehicle component assembly according to the present invention comprises the vehicle component, the bracket, and a plurality of male screw members connecting the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion to the bracket, wherein the bracket has a first plate portion superimposed on the first surface and fastened to the first surface by the male screw members, a second plate portion superimposed on the second surface and fastened to the second surface by the male screw members, and a third plate portion having a curved portion and extending between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, and the bracket is provided with a notch recessed in the third direction in the portion including the curved portion.

[0011] With this configuration, a notch is provided in the curved portion of the bracket that is recessed along a third direction, making it easy to deform the bracket. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of gaps in the mating surface when fastening the bracket to the vehicle component. As a result, the vehicle component can be attached to the vehicle body more stably.

[0012] The vehicle component assembly according to the present invention comprises a bracket and a plurality of male screw members connecting the first fixing portion and the second fixing portion to the bracket, wherein the bracket has a first plate portion superimposed on the first surface and fastened to the first surface by the male screw members, a second plate portion superimposed on the second surface and fastened to the second surface by the male screw members, and a third plate portion having a curved portion and extending between the first plate portion and the second plate portion, and the electronic component is located on the first direction side with respect to the first plate portion.

[0013] With this configuration, the end face (edge) of the bracket does not face the electronic component, so even if the bracket and the electronic component come into contact, damage to the electronic component can be suppressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain vehicle parts and vehicle part assemblies that can be stably attached to a vehicle body in various mounting positions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a part of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a plan view of a part of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view of a vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view of a vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a side view of a vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a front view of a vehicle component according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a bottom view of a vehicle component according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of a vehicle component according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a bracket according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a front view of a bracket according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a plan view of a bracket according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a side view of a bracket according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a part of a vehicle including a vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a plan view of a part of a vehicle according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a front view of a vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a plan view of a vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a side view of a vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a bracket according to the second embodiment. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a front view of a bracket according to the second embodiment. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a side view of a bracket according to the second embodiment. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a plan view of the bracket according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] Embodiments of vehicle parts and vehicle part assemblies according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the components in the following embodiments include those that are easily conceivable by those skilled in the art, substantially identical, and so-called equivalents. Moreover, various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of components can be made without departing from the spirit of the following embodiments.

[0017] <First Embodiment> (vehicle) Figure 1 is a perspective view of a part of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a plan view of a part of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle 100 is equipped with a vehicle component assembly 1. The vehicle component assembly 1 is housed, for example, in the engine compartment and fixed to the vehicle body 101 of the vehicle 100.

[0018] As shown in each drawing, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are defined herein for convenience. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is provided along the width direction of the vehicle 100. The Y-axis is provided along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The Z-axis is provided along the vertical direction of the vehicle. Alternatively, the X-axis may be provided along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 100, and the Y-axis may be provided along the width direction of the vehicle.

[0019] Furthermore, the X, Y, and Z directions are defined herein. The X direction is a direction along the X axis and includes the +X direction indicated by the X-axis arrow and the -X direction which is the opposite direction of the X-axis arrow. The Y direction is a direction along the Y axis and includes the +Y direction indicated by the Y-axis arrow and the -Y direction which is the opposite direction of the Y-axis arrow. The Z direction is a direction along the Z axis and includes the +Z direction indicated by the Z-axis arrow and the -Z direction which is the opposite direction of the Z-axis arrow.

[0020] In the following explanation, the +Z direction is defined as the upward direction in the vertical direction, and the -Z direction is defined as the downward direction in the vertical direction. However, the Z direction may differ from the vertical direction depending on various conditions such as the location of the vehicle 100 and the condition of the tires.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, the vehicle component assembly 1 is positioned between the relay box 102 and the battery 103. Note that the battery 103 is not shown in Figure 1. The vehicle component assembly 1 is positioned on the +X side relative to the relay box 102 and on the -X side relative to the battery 103. The relay box 102, battery 103, and harness cover 104 are fixed to the vehicle body 101. Components such as fuses are housed inside the relay box 102. The battery 103 is mounted on a battery tray 106 and fixed to the vehicle body 101 via a battery carrier 105. The battery carrier 105 is fixed to the vehicle body 101. The battery 103 supplies power to various components mounted on the vehicle 100. The harness cover 104 covers the harness connected to the relay box 102. The battery carrier 105 is also referred to as the vehicle body side fixing part.

[0022] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle component assembly 1 is fixed to the battery carrier 105 by a male threaded member 107. That is, the vehicle component assembly 1 is fixed to the vehicle body 101 together with the battery 103 via the battery carrier 105. The male threaded member 107 has a head and a shaft portion extending from the head, with a male threaded portion formed on the shaft portion. As an example, the male threaded member 107 is a bolt. However, the male threaded member 107 may also be a screw.

[0023] (Vehicle parts assembly) Figure 3 is a perspective view of the vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a front view of the vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a plan view of the vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a side view of the vehicle component assembly according to the first embodiment.

[0024] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the vehicle component assembly 1 comprises a vehicle component 11 and a bracket 12. The vehicle component 11 is, for example, an electronic component. Specifically, the vehicle component 11 is an electronic control unit, and one example is an EFI-ECU (Electrical Fuel Injection-Electronic Control Unit). However, the vehicle component 11 is not limited to the above. For example, the vehicle component 11 may be other electronic components such as an electrical junction box, or it may be a component other than an electronic component.

[0025] Vehicle component 11 is fixed to bracket 12 by a plurality of male threaded members 13A to 13D, and fixed to vehicle body 101 via bracket 12. Thereafter, male threaded member 13 is used as a collective term for the plurality of male threaded members 13A to 13D. Male threaded member 13 has, for example, a head and a shaft, with a male threaded portion formed on the shaft. As an example, male threaded member 13 is a bolt. Male threaded member 13 may also be a screw. Bracket 12 is fixed to vehicle body 101 by male threaded member 107 (Figure 1).

[0026] (Vehicle parts) Figure 7 is a front view of the vehicle component according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 is a bottom view of the vehicle component according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 is a side view of the vehicle component according to the first embodiment.

[0027] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the vehicle component 11 includes a housing 21 and a number of connectors 22 (two as an example).

[0028] The housing 21 has a base wall 21a, a housing section 21b, a number of (four, for example) protrusions 21c to 21f, and a pin 21g. The base wall 21a extends in a direction perpendicular to the Y direction (YZ plane). The housing section 21b protrudes in the +X direction from the +X side surface of the base wall 21a. The housing section 21b has a housing space formed inside, in which electronic components such as a circuit board are housed. A connector 22 is electrically connected to the circuit board. The connector 22 protrudes from the housing section 21b in the +Z direction.

[0029] As shown in Figures 3 and 7-9, the protrusions 21c-21f project from the base wall 21a of the housing 21 in the +X direction. The protrusions 21c and 21d are arranged with a gap in the Z direction on the +Y direction side of the housing 21b. The protrusion 21c is located on the +Z direction side of the protrusion 21d. In other words, the protrusion 21d is located on the -Z direction side of the protrusion 21c.

[0030] The protrusions 21e and 21f are arranged with a gap in the Z direction on the -Y direction side of the housing 21b. Protrusion 21e is located on the +Z direction side of protrusion 21f. In other words, protrusion 21f is located on the -Z direction side of protrusion 21e. Also, protrusions 21e and 21f are arranged with a gap in the Y direction from protrusions 21c and 21d.

[0031] Each of the protrusions 21c to 21f has a surface 21ca to 21fa. The surfaces 21ca and 21da of protrusions 21c and 21d are planes oriented in the +Y direction. The surfaces 21ea and 21fa of protrusions 21e and 21f are planes oriented in the +X direction. Brackets 12 are superimposed on these surfaces 21ca to 21fa. Surfaces 21ca and 21da are examples of the first surface, and surfaces 21ea and 21fa are examples of the second surface. Also, the +Y direction is an example of the first direction, and the +X direction is an example of the second direction.

[0032] Furthermore, each of the protrusions 21c to 21f is provided with female threaded portions 21cb to 21fb. Each of the female threaded portions 21cb to 21fb is connected to a male threaded member 13A to 13D (Figure 3). In other words, the bracket 12 is fixed to each of the female threaded portions 21cb to 21fb by the male threaded members 13A to 13D.

[0033] The female threaded portions 21cb and 21db of the protrusions 21c and 21d extend from the surfaces 21ca and 21da into the protrusions 21c and 21d, i.e., in the -Y direction. In other words, the female threaded portions 21cb and 21db are provided on the surfaces 21ca and 21da and extend into the protrusions 21c and 21d, i.e., in the -Y direction. The female threaded portions 21cb and 21db are spaced apart in the +Z direction. The female threaded portions 21cb and 21db are an example of two first fixing portions. The +Z direction is an example of a third direction.

[0034] The female threaded portions 21eb and 21fb of the protrusions 21e and 21f extend from the surfaces 21ea and 21fa into the protrusions 21e and 21f, i.e., in the -X direction. In other words, the female threaded portions 21eb and 21fb are provided on the surfaces 21ea and 21fa and extend into the protrusions 21e and 21f, i.e., in the -X direction. The female threaded portions 21eb and 21fb are spaced apart in the Z direction. Furthermore, the female threaded portions 21eb and 21fb are arranged side by side with spaced apart in the Y direction from the female threaded portions 21cb and db.

[0035] Here, the female threaded portions 21cb to 21fb are the points where the axial force from the male threaded member 13 acts. The female threaded portions 21eb and 21fb are examples of second fixing parts, and the female threaded portion 21eb is one example of a second fixing part.

[0036] As shown in Figures 5-7 and 9, the two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db and one female threaded portion 21ef are positioned to surround the center of gravity W1 (center of mass) of the vehicle part 11. The center of gravity W1 of the vehicle part 11 is located within a region R1 formed by connecting these three female threaded portions 21cb, 21db, and 21ef. Region R1 is a triangle formed by connecting point P1 of the female threaded portion 21cb, point P2 of the female threaded portion 21db, and point P3 of the female threaded portion 21ef. Points P1-P3 are points included in each of the female threaded portions 21cb, 21db, and 21ef. For example, points P1-P3 are points at the ends of each female threaded portion 21cb, 21db, and 21ef on the faces 21ca, 21da, and 21ea, but are not limited to these.

[0037] As shown in Figure 7, the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11 is located within region R1 when viewed from the +X direction (line of sight along the X direction). In other words, when viewed from the +X direction, the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11 is located within region R1. Also, as shown in Figure 9, the center of gravity of the vehicle component 11 is located within region R1 when viewed from the +Y direction (line of sight along the Y direction). In other words, when viewed from the +Y direction, the center of gravity of the vehicle component 11 is located within region R1. Also, as shown in Figure 5, the center of gravity of the vehicle component 11 is located within region R1 when viewed from the +Z direction (line of sight along the Z direction). In other words, when viewed from the +Z direction, the center of gravity of the vehicle component 11 is located within region R1. Note that the position of the center of gravity W1 is not limited to the above. For example, the center of gravity of the vehicle component 11 may be located within region R1 in at least two of the following directions: a line of sight from the +X direction (line of sight along the X direction), a line of sight from the +Y direction (line of sight along the Y direction), and a line of sight from the +Z direction (line of sight along the Z direction). In other words, the center of gravity of the vehicle component 11 may be located within region R1 in at least two of the following directions: when viewed from the +X direction, when viewed from the +Y direction, and when viewed from the +Z direction.

[0038] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, pin 21g protrudes in the +Y direction from between protrusions 21c and 21d. Pin 21g is connected to the base wall 21a.

[0039] The housing 21 is made of, for example, a metal material. Furthermore, the housing 21 is composed of a combination of multiple components. For example, the housing 21 includes a first housing member 23 and a second housing member 24. The first housing member 23 includes a part of the base wall 21a. The second housing member 24 includes a part of the base wall 21a, a housing portion 21b, protrusions 21c to 21f, and a pin 21g. Both the first housing member 23 and the second housing member 24 are made of, for example, a metal material.

[0040] (bracket) Figure 10 is a perspective view of the bracket according to the first embodiment. Figure 11 is a front view of the bracket according to the first embodiment. Figure 12 is a plan view of the bracket according to the first embodiment. Figure 13 is a side view of the bracket according to the first embodiment.

[0041] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, the bracket 12 has a plurality of plate portions 12a to 12d. The plurality of plate portions 12a to 12d are connected to each other. The bracket 12 is made of, for example, sheet metal. That is, the bracket 12 is made of a metallic material. Plate portion 12a is an example of a first plate portion, plate portion 12b is an example of a second plate portion, and plate portion 12c is an example of a third plate portion.

[0042] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the plate portion 12a is located on the +Y direction side with respect to the vehicle component 11. The plate portion 12a is superimposed on surfaces 21ca and 21da of the vehicle component 11 and fastened to surfaces 21ca and 21dc by male screw members 13A and 13B.

[0043] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, specifically, the plate portion 12a is formed in a plate shape with the Y direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the Y direction (XZ plane). The plate portion 12a is formed in a strip shape with the Z direction as the longitudinal direction. The plate portion 12a has two fastening portions 12aa and 12ab that are sandwiched between the heads of the male screw members 13A and 13B and the surfaces 21ca and 21da of the vehicle part 11. Through holes 12ac are formed in the fastening portions 12aa and 12ab into which the shafts of the male screw members 13A and 13B are inserted. In addition, a through hole 12ad is formed in the plate portion 12a. The through hole 12ad is provided between the two through holes 12ac. The pin 21g of the vehicle part 11 is inserted into the through hole 12ad. Note that the through hole 12ad is not limited to being between the two through holes 12ac, but may be provided at any position on the plate portion 12a.

[0044] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the plate portion 12b is located on the +X side relative to the vehicle component 11. The plate portion 12b is superimposed on the surfaces 21ea and 21fa of the vehicle component 11 and fastened to the surfaces 21ea and 21fa by male screw members 13C and 13D.

[0045] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, specifically, the plate portion 12b is formed in a plate shape with the X direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the X direction (YZ plane). The plate portion 12b is formed in a strip shape with the Z direction as the longitudinal direction. The plate portion 12b has two fastening portions 12ba and 12bb that are sandwiched between the heads of the male screw members 13C and 13D and the surfaces 21ea and 21fa of the vehicle part 11. Through holes 12bc are formed in the fastening portions 12ba and 12bb into which the shafts of the male screw members 13C and 13D are inserted.

[0046] As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the plate portion 12c extends from plate portion 12a to plate portion 12c, with at least a portion of it positioned on the +X direction relative to the vehicle component 11. In other words, plate portion 12c connects plate portion 12a and plate portion 12b.

[0047] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, specifically, the plate portion 12c has a wall portion 12ca, a wall portion 12cb, and a curved portion 12cc, and is formed in an L-shape. The width of the plate portion 12c in the Z direction is narrower than that of the plate portions 12a and 12b.

[0048] The wall portion 12ca is located on the +Y direction side with respect to the vehicle component 11 and extends in the +X direction from the center of the plate portion 12a in the Z direction. The wall portion 12ca is formed in a plate shape with the Y direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0049] The wall portion 12cb is located on the +X side with respect to the vehicle component 11 and extends in the -Y direction from the center of the plate portion 12b in the Z direction. The wall portion 12cb is formed in a plate shape with the X direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the X direction.

[0050] The curved section 12cc extends across the wall section 12ca and the wall section 12cb, connecting the wall section 12ca and the wall section 12cb. The curved section 12cc is formed in a curved shape.

[0051] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, the plate portion 12d extends in the +X direction from the -Z direction edge of the plate portion 12c. The plate portion 12c is formed in a plate shape with the Z direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0052] As shown in Figure 1, the plate portion 12d is placed on the upper surface of the battery carrier 105 and fastened to the battery carrier 105 by a male screw member 107. Specifically, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, the plate portion 12d has two fastening portions 12da and 12db that are sandwiched between the head of the male screw member 107 and the upper surface of the battery carrier. Through holes 12dc are formed in the fastening portions 12da and 12db into which the shaft portion of the male screw member 107 is inserted.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, the bracket 12 has a claw portion 12j. The claw portion 12j extends from the plate portion 12d in the -Z direction. The claw portion 12j is inserted into a hole 105a (Figure 1) provided in the battery carrier 105. The claw portion 12j prevents the battery carrier 105 from rotating when the bracket 12 is fixed to the battery carrier 105 by the male screw member 107. The claw portion 12j is also referred to as the anti-rotation portion.

[0054] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10 to 12, the bracket 12 is provided with notches 12e to 12g.

[0055] The notch 12e is provided on the +Z side of plate portion 12c between plate portion 12a and plate portion 12b, and is recessed along the Z direction. Specifically, the notch 12e is recessed in the -Z direction. The notch 12e is provided in plate portion 12c, extending across wall portion 12ca, wall portion 12cb, and curved portion 12cc. That is, the notch 12e is recessed along the Z direction in the portion of bracket 12 that includes the curved portion 12cc.

[0056] The notches 12f and 12g are located between plate portions 12a and 12b, on the -Z side of plate portion 12c, and are recessed along the Z direction. Specifically, the notches 12f and 12g are recessed in the +Z direction. The notch 12f is located between plate portions 12a and 12b, on the +Y side of plate portion 12d, and extends across wall portion 12ca, part of wall portion 12cb, and curved portion 12cc. That is, the notch 12f is recessed along the Z direction in the portion of bracket 12 that includes curved portion 12cc. The notch 12g is located between plate portions 12a and 12b, on the -Y side of plate portion 12d, and is located in part of wall portion 12cb. The notches 12e to 12g are also referred to as recesses.

[0057] Furthermore, the bracket 12 is provided with protrusions 12h and 12i. The protrusions 12h and 12i extend from the wall portion 12cb of the plate portion 12c to the plate portion 12d. The protrusions 12h and 12i function as reinforcing parts.

[0058] (Assembly and installation methods) Next, the assembly method of the vehicle component assembly 1 and the method of attaching it to the vehicle body 101 will be described. In assembling the vehicle component assembly 1, the pin 21g of the vehicle component 11 is inserted into the through hole 12ad of the bracket 12 to position it, and the plate portions 12a and 12b of the bracket 12 are aligned with the surfaces 21ca, 21da and 21ea, 21fa of the vehicle component 11. Next, the male screw member 13B is connected to the female screw portion 21cb provided on the surface 21ca of the vehicle component 11. At this time, the circumferential surface of the through hole 12ad catches on the pin 21g inserted into the through hole 12ad, thereby preventing the bracket 12 from rotating relative to the vehicle component 11. Next, the male screw members 13A, 13D, and 13C are connected to the female screw portions 21db, 21eb, and 21fb in that order. This completes the assembly of the vehicle component assembly 1. The assembly order of the male screw member 13 is not limited to the above.

[0059] When attaching the vehicle component assembly 1 to the vehicle body 101, the claw portion 12j of the bracket 12 is inserted into the hole 105a of the battery carrier 105. Next, one of the two male screw members 107 is connected to the female screw portion provided on the battery carrier 105. At this time, the claw portion 12j inserted into the hole 105a catches on the circumferential surface of the hole 105a, preventing the vehicle component assembly 1 from rotating relative to the battery carrier 105 (vehicle body 101). Next, the other of the two male screw members 107 is connected to the female screw portion provided on the battery carrier 105. This completes the attachment of the vehicle component assembly 1 to the vehicle body 101.

[0060] (Overview) As described above, the vehicle component 11 of this embodiment is fixed to the vehicle body 101 of the vehicle 100 via a bracket 12. The vehicle component 11 comprises a housing 21, surfaces 21ca, 21da (first surfaces), surfaces 21ea, 21fa (second surfaces), at least two female screw portions 21cb, 21db (first fixing portions), and at least one female screw portion 21eb, 21fb (second fixing portion). Surfaces 21ca, 21da (first surfaces) are provided on the housing 21 and face the +Y direction (first direction), onto which the bracket 12 is superimposed. Surfaces 21ea, 21fa are provided on the housing 21 and face the +X direction (second direction) intersecting the +Y direction, onto which the bracket 12 is superimposed. At least two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db are provided on surfaces 21ca, 21da and are spaced apart in the +Z direction (third direction) intersecting the +Y and +X directions, to which the bracket 12 is fixed. At least one female threaded portion 21eb, 21fb is provided on surfaces 21ea, 21fa, to which the bracket 12 is fixed. The two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db and the one female threaded portion 21eb are positioned to surround the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11.

[0061] With this configuration, the two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db and the one female threaded portion 21eb are positioned to surround the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11. Therefore, regardless of the mounting position, the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11 is located between the three fixing parts (the two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db and the one female threaded portion 21eb). Thus, the vehicle component 11 can be stably attached to the vehicle body 101 in various mounting positions. Furthermore, since the three fixing parts are fixed to the bracket 12, relative rotation of the vehicle component 11 with respect to the bracket 12 is suppressed, and the vehicle component 11 is stable relative to the bracket 12. In addition, since the three fixing parts (the two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db and the one female threaded portion 21eb) are positioned to surround the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11, that is, the center of gravity W1 is located within the triangular region R1, the distance between each fixing part and the center of gravity W1 can be shortened, and the load on each fixing part can be reduced.

[0062] Furthermore, the two female threaded portions 21cb, 21db and the one female threaded portion 21eb are positioned to surround the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle component 11 when viewed from at least two directions: the +Y direction, the +X direction, and the +Z direction.

[0063] With this configuration, the vehicle component 11 can be stably attached to the vehicle body 101 in various mounting positions.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed from the +Z direction, region R1 is inclined with respect to the width direction (Y direction) of the vehicle component 11, so the bracket 12 can stably support the vehicle component 11.

[0065] Furthermore, the vehicle component assembly 1 of this embodiment comprises a vehicle component 11, a bracket 12, and a plurality of male screw members 13. The plurality of male screw members 13 connect the female screw portions 21cb, 21db and female screw portions 21eb, 21fb to the bracket 12. The bracket 12 has a plate portion 12a (first plate portion), a plate portion 12b (second plate portion), and a plate portion 12c (third plate portion). Plate portion 12a is superimposed on surfaces 21ca, 21da and fastened to surfaces 21ca, 21da by the male screw members 13. Plate portion 12b is superimposed on surfaces 21ea, 21fa and fastened to surfaces 21ea, 21fa by the male screw members 13. Plate portion 12c has a curved portion 12cc and extends across plate portion 12a and plate portion 12b. The bracket 12 is provided with notches 12e and 12f that are recessed along the +Z direction in the portion including the curved section 12cc.

[0066] With this configuration, since notches 12e and 12f are provided in the portion of the bracket 12 including the curved portion 12cc, recessed along the +Z direction, the bracket 12 can be easily deformed. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of gaps at the mating surface when fastening the bracket 12 and the vehicle part 11. As a result, the vehicle part 11 can be attached to the vehicle body 101 more stably. In addition, since it is possible to suppress the occurrence of gaps at the mating surface when fastening the bracket 12 and the vehicle part 11, it is not necessary to provide a spacer such as a washer between the bracket 12 and the vehicle part 11, thus suppressing an increase in cost.

[0067] Furthermore, the vehicle component assembly 1 of this embodiment comprises a bracket 12 and a plurality of male screw members 13. The plurality of male screw members 13 connect the female screw portions 21cb, 21db and female screw portions 21eb, 21fb to the bracket 12. The bracket 12 has a plate portion 12a (first plate portion), a plate portion 12b (second plate portion), and a plate portion 12c (third plate portion). Plate portion 12a is superimposed on surfaces 21ca, 21da and fastened to surfaces 21ca, 21da by the male screw members 13. Plate portion 12b is superimposed on surfaces 21ea, 21fa and fastened to surfaces 21ea, 21fa by the male screw members 13. Plate portion 12c has a curved portion 12cc and extends from plate portion 12a to plate portion 12b. The harness (electronic component) is located on the +Y direction side with respect to plate portion 12a. As an example, in this embodiment, the harness is covered by a harness cover 104.

[0068] With this configuration, the end face (edge) of the bracket 12 does not face the harness. In other words, the end face (edge) of the bracket is not oriented in the +Y direction, where the harness cover 104, which covers the harness through which current and signals flow, is located. That is, the Y direction is the curved portion 12cc of the bracket 12, so even if the vehicle 100 collides with an object from the front (X direction), the impact will not cause the end face (edge) of the bracket 12 to break the harness cover 104 and damage the harness. Specifically, the male screw members 13A and 13B are oriented in the +Y direction, and the male screw members 13C and 13D are oriented in the +X direction. This prevents the end face (edge) of the bracket 12 from facing the direction in which electronic components (such as harnesses) through which current flows are concentrated. Therefore, even if the bracket 12 comes into contact with electronic components (harnesses), damage to the electronic components can be suppressed.

[0069] <Second Embodiment> (Vehicle parts assembly) Figure 14 is a perspective view of a part of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. Figure 15 is a plan view of a part of a vehicle according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figures 14 and 15, unlike the first embodiment, the vehicle component assembly 1 is positioned between the relay box 102 and the PCU (power control unit) 103A and fixed to the vehicle body 101.

[0070] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. Figure 17 is a front view of the vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. Figure 18 is a top view of the vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment. Figure 19 is a side view of the vehicle component assembly according to the second embodiment.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 16-19, the vehicle component assembly 1 of this embodiment comprises a vehicle component 11 and a bracket 12, similar to the first embodiment. However, the shape of the bracket 12 in this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment. The vehicle component 11 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0072] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the bracket according to the second embodiment. Figure 21 is a front view of the bracket according to the second embodiment. Figure 22 is a side view of the bracket according to the second embodiment. Figure 23 is a top view of the bracket according to the second embodiment.

[0073] As shown in Figures 20 to 23, the bracket 12 of this embodiment has a plurality of plate portions 12a to 12d. The plurality of plate portions 12a to 12d are connected to each other. The bracket 12 is made of, for example, sheet metal. That is, the bracket 12 is made of a metal material. Plate portion 12a is an example of a first plate portion, plate portion 12b is an example of a second plate portion, and plate portion 12c is an example of a third plate portion.

[0074] The plate portion 12a is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0075] In this embodiment, two plate portions 12b are provided. As shown in Figures 16 to 19, the plate portions 12b are located on the +X side relative to the vehicle component 11. The plate portions 12b are superimposed on the surfaces 21ea and 21fa of the vehicle component 11 and fastened to the surfaces 21ea and 21fa by male screw members 13C and 13D.

[0076] As shown in Figures 19 to 21 and 23, specifically, the two plate portions 12b are provided with an interval in the Z direction. The plate portion 12b is formed in a plate shape with the X direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the X direction (YZ plane). The two plate portions 12b have fastening portions 12ba and 12bb that are sandwiched between the heads of the male screw members 13C and 13D and the surfaces 21ea and 21fa of the vehicle part 11. Through holes 12bc are formed in the fastening portions 12ba and 12bb into which the shafts of the male screw members 13C and 13D are inserted.

[0077] As shown in Figures 16, 18, and 19, the plate portion 12c extends from plate portion 12a to the two plate portions 12c, with at least a portion of it positioned on the -X direction relative to the vehicle component 11. In other words, plate portion 12c connects plate portion 12a to the two plate portions 12b.

[0078] As shown in Figures 20 to 23, specifically, the plate portion 12c has a wall portion 12ca, a wall portion 12cb, a curved portion 12cc, as well as a wall portion 12ce, a wall portion 12cf, and a curved portion 12cg.

[0079] The wall portion 12ca is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0080] The wall portion 12cb is located on the -X side relative to the vehicle component 11 and extends in the Y direction. The wall portion 12cb is formed in a plate shape with the X direction as the thickness direction and extending in a direction perpendicular to the X direction. In this embodiment, a recess 12cd is provided in the wall portion 12cb. The recess 12cd is recessed in the -X direction.

[0081] The curved section 12cc extends across the wall section 12ca and the wall section 12cb, connecting the wall section 12ca and the wall section 12cb. The curved section 12cc is formed in a curved shape.

[0082] The wall sections 12ce and 12cf are located on the -Y direction side with respect to the vehicle component 11 and are aligned with each other in the X direction. Wall section 12ce is connected to wall section 12cb via a curved section 12cg. Wall section 12cf is connected to two plate sections 12b.

[0083] The curved section 12cg spans both the wall section 12cb and the wall section 12ce, connecting the two sections. The curved section 12cg is formed in a curved shape.

[0084] In this embodiment, the plate portion 12d extends in the -X direction from the -Z direction edge of the wall portion 12cb of the plate portion 12b. The claw portion 12j is also referred to as the anti-rotation portion.

[0085] Furthermore, the bracket 12 is provided with notches 12e to 12g, similar to the first embodiment.

[0086] The notch 12e is provided on the +Z side of plate portion 12c between plate portion 12a and the two plate portions 12b, and is recessed along the Z direction. Specifically, the notch 12e is recessed in the -Z direction. The notch 12e is provided in plate portion 12c, extending from wall portions 12ca, 12cb, 12ce, 12cf and curved portion 12cc to 12cg. That is, the notch 12e is recessed along the Z direction in the portion of bracket 12 that includes curved portions 12cc and 12cg.

[0087] The notches 12f and 12g are provided on the -Z side of plate portion 12c between plate portion 12a and plate portion 12b, and are recessed along the Z direction. Specifically, the notches 12f and 12g are recessed in the +Z direction. The notch 12f is provided on the +Y side of plate portion 12d between plate portion 12a and plate portion 12b, and extends across wall portion 12ca, part of wall portion 12cb, and curved portion 12cc. That is, the notch 12f is recessed along the Z direction in the portion of bracket 12 that includes curved portion 12cc. The notch 12g is provided on the -Y side of plate portion 12d between plate portion 12a and plate portion 12b, and extends across part of wall portion 12cb, wall portion 12ce, and curved portion 12cg.

[0088] (Assembly and installation methods) Next, the assembly method of the vehicle component assembly 1 and the method of attaching it to the vehicle 100 will be described. In assembling the vehicle component assembly 1, the vehicle component assembly 1 is inserted diagonally into the bracket 12 from between the plate portion 12a and the two plate portions 12b of the bracket 12, and the end of the vehicle component assembly 1 is placed into the recess 12cd. Then, the vehicle component assembly 1 is rotated relative to the bracket 12, and the pin 21g (Figure 7) of the vehicle component 11 is inserted into the through hole 12ad (Figure 10) of the bracket 12 to position it, and the plate portions 12a and 12b of the bracket 12 are aligned with the surfaces 21ca, 21da and 21ea, 21fa of the vehicle component 11. Next, the male screw member 13B is connected to the female screw portion 21cb provided on the surface 21ca of the vehicle component 11. At this point, the circumferential surface of the through-hole 12ad catches on the pin 21g inserted into the through-hole 12ad, thereby preventing the bracket 12 from rotating relative to the vehicle component 11. Next, the male threaded members 13A, 13D, and 13C are connected to the female threaded portions 21db, 21eb, and 21fb in that order. This completes the assembly of the vehicle component assembly 1. Note that the assembly order of the male threaded members 13 is not limited to the above.

[0089] The method for attaching the vehicle component assembly 1 to the vehicle 100 is the same as in the first embodiment.

[0090] (Overview) With the above configuration, vehicle components can be stably attached to the vehicle body in various mounting positions, similar to the first embodiment. Furthermore, with the above configuration, since the end face (edge) of the bracket 12 does not face the harness, damage to the electronic component (harness) can be suppressed even if the bracket 12 comes into contact with the electronic component.

[0091] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the vehicle component assembly 1 is fixed to the vehicle body 101 via a battery carrier 105, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The vehicle component assembly 1 may be fixed to the vehicle body 101 via members other than the battery carrier 105, or it may be fixed directly to the vehicle body 101.

[0092] Furthermore, the orientation of the vehicle component 11 (vehicle component assembly 1) relative to the vehicle body 101 is not limited to that shown in the above embodiment, but may be any orientation.

[0093] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle part 11 is located within a region R1 formed by connecting the three female screw portions 21cb, 21db, and 21ef, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the center of gravity W1 of the vehicle part 11 may be located within a region formed by connecting the four female screw portions 21cb, 21db, 21eb, and 21fb (hereinafter also referred to as the second region). In this case, the center of gravity of the vehicle part 11 may be located within the second region in at least two of the following views: a line of sight from the +X direction (line of sight along the X direction), a line of sight from the +Y direction (line of sight along the Y direction), and a line of sight from the +Z direction (line of sight along the Z direction). In other words, the center of gravity of the vehicle part 11 may be located within the second region in at least two of the following views: a view from the +X direction, a view from the +Y direction, and a view from the +Z direction. Alternatively, the relationship between the male threaded member 13 and the female threaded portions 21cb, 21db, 21eb, and 21fb may be reversed. In this case, the male threaded member 13 is provided on the vehicle component 11 side, and the shaft portion of the male threaded member 13 protrudes from the surfaces 21ca, 21da, 21ea, and 21fa of the vehicle component 11 and is inserted into the through holes 12ac and 12bc of the bracket 12. The bracket 12 may then be joined by being tightened from the outside with the female threaded member having the female threaded portions 21cb, 21db, 21eb, and 21fb.

[0094] While embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The above embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. The above embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 11...Vehicle parts, 12...Bracket, 12a...Plate part (first plate part), 12b...Plate part (second plate part), 12c...Plate part (third plate part), 12cc, 12cg...Bent part, 12e, 12f, 12g...Notch, 13, 13A~13D...Male screw member, 21...Housing, 21ca, 21da...Surface (first surface), 21cb, 21db...Female screw part (first fixing part), 21ea, 21fa...Surface (second surface), 21eb, 21fb...Female screw part (second fixing part), 100...Vehicle, 101...Vehicle body, W1...Center of gravity.

Claims

1. A vehicle component that is fixed to the vehicle body via a bracket, The casing and The housing has a first surface facing a first direction, on which the bracket is superimposed, The housing has a second surface that faces a second direction intersecting the first direction, on which the bracket is superimposed, At least two first fixing parts are provided on the first surface, spaced apart in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and to which the bracket is fixed, The second surface is provided with at least one second fixing portion to which the bracket is fixed, Equipped with, The two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are positioned to surround the center of gravity of the vehicle part. The two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are positioned to surround the center of gravity of the vehicle part when viewed from at least two of the first, second, and third directions. Vehicle parts.

2. A vehicle component that is fixed to the vehicle body via a bracket, The casing and The housing has a first surface facing a first direction, on which the bracket is superimposed, The housing has a second surface that faces a second direction intersecting the first direction, on which the bracket is superimposed, At least two first fixing parts are provided on the first surface, spaced apart in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, and to which the bracket is fixed, The second surface is provided with at least one second fixing portion to which the bracket is fixed, Equipped with, The two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part are positioned to surround the center of gravity of the vehicle part, and are provided such that the center of gravity is located within the triangular region formed by connecting the two first fixing parts and the one second fixing part. Vehicle parts.

3. A vehicle component according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned bracket and, Multiple male screw members connecting the first fixing part and the second fixing part to the bracket, Equipped with, The aforementioned bracket is A first plate portion superimposed on the first surface and fastened to the first surface by the male screw member, A second plate portion is superimposed on the second surface and fastened to the second surface by the male screw member, A third plate portion having a curved portion and extending across the first plate portion and the second plate portion, It has, The bracket is provided with a notch in the portion including the curved part that is recessed along the third direction. Vehicle component assembly.

4. A vehicle component according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned bracket and, Multiple male screw members connecting the first fixing part and the second fixing part to the bracket, Equipped with, The aforementioned bracket is A first plate portion superimposed on the first surface and fastened to the first surface by the male screw member, A second plate portion is superimposed on the second surface and fastened to the second surface by the male screw member, A third plate portion having a curved portion and extending across the first plate portion and the second plate portion, It has, The electronic component is located on the first direction side with respect to the first plate portion. Vehicle component assembly.

Images