Vehicle body side member structure

Abstract

The side member structure 100 comprises a cylindrical body 110 extending in the longitudinal direction X of the vehicle body 1, and an impact absorbing portion 120 disposed inside the cylindrical body 110 so as to extend in the longitudinal direction X. The impact absorbing portion 120 includes a first deformation member 122 and a second deformation member 124 provided inside the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y of the vehicle body 1. The second deformation member 124 has a pair of first plate-like portions 124a provided so as to be separated in the vertical direction Z and facing each other in the vertical direction Z, and a second plate-like portion 124b extending along the vertical direction Z from the outer end of each first plate-like portion 124a in the width direction Y so as to face the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a side member structure of a vehicle body.

Background Art

[0002] In an electric vehicle, a battery pack is mounted under the vehicle floor. Therefore, a structure has been proposed to protect the battery pack from a collision of an obstacle against the side surface of the vehicle body.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a side member structure including a cylindrical body extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body and a shock-absorbing member disposed inside the cylindrical body. In a vehicle having this side member structure, when an obstacle collides with the side surface of the vehicle body, the cylindrical body is pushed and locally deformed inward of the vehicle. Further, following the deformation of the cylindrical body, the shock-absorbing member is deformed inward of the vehicle. At this time, the shock-absorbing member is deformed while absorbing the shock energy from the obstacle. Thereby, the battery pack disposed more inward of the vehicle than the side member structure can be protected

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] As described above, according to the side member structure disclosed in Patent Document 1, the battery pack mounted under the vehicle floor can be protected. On the other hand, it is desired to more stably protect the battery pack. For this purpose, it is preferable to further suppress the deformation of the cylindrical body. In particular, it is preferable to more suppress the deformation of the portion inside the vehicle of the cylindrical body.​​​Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a side member structure for a vehicle body that can further suppress deformation of the inner portion of the cylindrical body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) The side member structure of the vehicle body according to one embodiment of the present invention is: The vehicle body comprises a cylindrical body extending in the longitudinal direction, and an impact-absorbing part disposed inside the cylindrical body so as to extend in the longitudinal direction. The impact absorbing portion includes a first deformation member provided to extend in the front-rear direction, and a second deformation member provided inside the first deformation member in the width direction of the vehicle body and extending in the front-rear direction. The second deformable member has a pair of first plate-like portions provided so as to be separated vertically and facing each other in the vertical direction, and a second plate-like portion extending along the vertical direction from the outer end in the width direction of each first plate-like portion so as to face the first deformable member in the width direction.

[0008] (2) The second deformable member may further include a third plate-like portion extending in the vertical direction from the inner end of each first plate-like portion in the width direction.

[0009] (3) The second deformable member may have a closed cross-sectional shape such that a cavity extending in the front-rear direction is formed.

[0010] (4) The second deformable member may have a rectangular tube shape.

[0011] (5) The second deformable member includes a plate-shaped member and a hat-shaped member provided on the inside of the plate-shaped member in the width direction, The hat-shaped member has a pair of flange portions fixed to the plate-shaped member, a pair of first plate-shaped portions extending inward from the pair of flange portions in the width direction, and a third plate-shaped portion connecting the inner ends of the pair of first plate-shaped portions in the width direction. The second plate-like portion may include the plate-like member and the pair of flange portions.

[0012] (6) The second deformable member includes a plate-shaped member and a hat-shaped member provided on the outside of the plate-shaped member in the width direction, The hat-shaped member has a pair of flange portions fixed to the plate-shaped member, a pair of first plate-shaped portions extending outward in the width direction from the pair of flange portions, and a second plate-shaped portion connecting the outer ends of the pair of first plate-shaped portions in the width direction. The third plate-like portion may include the plate-like member and the pair of flange portions.

[0013] (7) The second deformation member may be fixed to the first deformation member.

[0014] (8) The cylindrical body includes a side sill inner having a shape that opens outward in the width direction, and a side sill outer having a shape that opens inward in the width direction and is provided outside the side sill inner in the width direction, The second deformation member may be fixed to the side sill inner.

[0015] (9) The first deformable member may have a plurality of ridges that are aligned in the front-rear direction and each extends in the width direction.

[0016] (10) The first deformable member may include a corrugated sheet.

[0017] (11) The first deformable member may have a plurality of cylindrical members that are arranged in the front-to-back direction and each extends in the width direction.

[0018] (12) In the front-rear direction, the plurality of ridges of the first deformable member may be positioned inward from both ends of the second deformable member.

[0019] (13) In the front-rear direction, the plurality of cylindrical members of the first deformation member may be positioned inside both ends of the second deformation member.

[0020] (14) The side member structure of the vehicle body has a specific range formed such that when the first deformation member is cut by a first plane perpendicular to the vertical direction, a plurality of first cut surfaces linearly extending in the width direction are arranged in the front-rear direction in the first deformation member. The specific range is a range in the front-rear direction defined by six ridge line portions arranged in the front-rear direction in one or a plurality of second cut surfaces obtained by cutting the first deformation member with a second plane perpendicular to the width direction at the center of the first deformation member in the width direction. The first plane may pass through the vertical center of the specific range in the one or a plurality of second cut surfaces.

[0021] (15) In the specific range, the vertical length of the second deformation member may be greater than the vertical length of the first deformation member.

[0022] (16) In the specific range, the pair of first plate-like portions may be located outside the first deformation member in the vertical direction.

[0023] (17) The first deformation member [[ID=2​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0025] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of a vehicle body including a side member structure according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the side member structure (cross-sectional view taken along arrow A in Figure 1). [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a part of the side member structure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the side member structure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the effects and benefits of the side member structure according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the effects and benefits of the side member structure according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows a modified example of the side member structure. [Figure 22] Figure 22 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 23] Figure 23 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 24] Figure 24 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 25] Figure 25 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 26] Figure 26 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 27] Figure 27 shows a modified example of the first deformed member. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a diagram illustrating a specific range. [Figure 29] Figure 29 shows a cross-section of the first deformed member perpendicular to the width direction. [Figure 30] Figure 30 shows a cross-section of the first deformed member perpendicular to the vertical direction. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a diagram illustrating a specific range. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a diagram illustrating a specific range. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a diagram illustrating a specific range. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] The side member structure of a vehicle body according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0027] (Vehicle body) Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of a vehicle body 1 including a side member structure 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the side member structure 100 (cross-sectional view taken along arrow A in Figure 1). Note that Figure 2 shows the battery case 20 fixed to the side member structure 100. In this specification, the direction along the direction of travel of the vehicle body is defined as the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body X, the direction of travel of the vehicle body is defined as the front, the opposite side as the rear, the direction along the direction of gravity is defined as the vertical direction Z, and the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and the vertical direction Z is defined as the width direction of the vehicle body Y. In addition, in the width direction Y, the direction away from the center of the vehicle body is defined as the outward direction, and the opposite direction is defined as the inward direction.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle body 1 comprises a frame 10 and a battery case 20. The frame 10 is provided to extend in the front-rear direction X and constitutes the skeleton of the vehicle body 1. The battery case 20 houses a battery pack 22 such as a lithium-ion battery. The vehicle body 1 is used as the body of a vehicle that is driven by a battery, such as an electric vehicle.

[0029] The frame 10 has a pair of side member structures 100 (also called "side sills") located below the door of the side opening. The frame 10 also has a plurality of crossing members 200 that extend along the width direction Y so as to span across the pair of side member structures 100.

[0030] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, both ends of each intersecting member 200 in the width direction Y are fixed to the side member structure 100. As shown in Figure 2, in this embodiment, the floor panel 300 is supported by multiple intersecting members 200. The battery case 20 is located below the floor panel 300.

[0031] The side member structure 100 is provided outside the battery pack 22 in the width direction Y in order to protect the battery pack 22 from side collisions (pole side impacts) with utility poles, etc. The side member structure 100 is provided so as to extend along the front-rear direction X of the vehicle body 1. In this embodiment, the battery case 20 is fixed to the side member structure 100 by fasteners 160.

[0032] (Side member structure) Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a part of the side member structure 100. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the side member structure 100.

[0033] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the side member structure 100 comprises a cylindrical body 110 extending in the front-rear direction X, and an impact absorbing part 120 disposed inside the cylindrical body 110 so as to extend in the front-rear direction X. The cylindrical body 110 has a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. In this embodiment, the cylindrical body 110 includes a side sill inner 112 and a side sill outer 114 provided outside the side sill inner 112 in the width direction Y.

[0034] The side sill inner 112 has a shape that opens outward in the width direction Y, and the side sill outer 114 has a shape that opens inward in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, the side sill inner 112 and the side sill outer 114 each have a hat shape with flange portions at the upper and lower ends in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. The side sill inner 112 and the side sill outer 114 are fixed to each other by joining means such as welding or fastening members, with their flange portions abutting against each other. In this embodiment, the side sill inner 112 and the side sill outer 114 are joined to each other, for example, by welding. Various welding methods such as spot welding, TIG welding, arc welding, laser welding, and plasma welding can be used. The same applies to welding methods when joining other parts. The cylindrical body 110 may be composed of one member or of three or more members.

[0035] The impact absorbing section 120 includes a first deformation member 122 that extends in the front-rear direction X, and a second deformation member 124 that is provided inside the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y and extends in the front-rear direction X.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the first deformable member 122 is made of a plate material. In this embodiment, the first deformable member 122 has end faces 130a and 130b at both ends in the width direction Y, extending in the front-rear direction X. In a cross-section of the first deformable member 122 perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the end face 130a is located outside the width direction Y of the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y, and the end face 130b is located inside the width direction Y of the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y. More specifically, the end face 130a faces outward in the width direction Y, and the end face 130b faces inward in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, the end face 130a corresponds to the first end face, and the end face 130b corresponds to the second end face.

[0037] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the first deformable member 122 has a plurality of ridge portions 122a that are aligned in the front-rear direction X and each extends in the width direction Y. Some of the plurality of ridge portions 122a are provided on the upper side of the first deformable member 122, and the other ridge portions 122a are provided on the lower side of the first deformable member 122. In this embodiment, the plurality of ridge portions 122a are provided to extend from end face 130a to end face 130b. In this embodiment, a corrugated sheet having a shape that repeats indentations and protrusions along the front-rear direction X is used as the first deformable member 122.

[0038] More specifically, the first deformation member 122 has a plurality of upper plate portions 123a arranged in the front-rear direction X and spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction X, a plurality of lower plate portions 123b arranged below the upper plate portions 123a in the front-rear direction X and spaced apart from each other in the front-rear direction X, and a plurality of plate-shaped connecting portions 123c that connect the plurality of upper plate portions 123a and the plurality of lower plate portions 123b. In this embodiment, the front edge of the upper plate portion 123a and the rear edge of the lower plate portion 123b are connected by the connecting portions 123c. Also, the rear edge of the upper plate portion 123a and the front edge of the lower plate portion 123b are connected by the connecting portions 123c.

[0039] The upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b are provided so as to have a width in the front-rear direction X and extend in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, the upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b are provided so as to be substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. The connecting portion 123c is provided so as to be inclined with respect to the upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b. In this embodiment, the boundary portion (bent portion) between the connecting portion 123c and the upper plate portion 123a and the boundary portion (bent portion) between the connecting portion 123c and the lower plate portion 123b each become the ridge portion 122a.

[0040] The first deformation member 122 is made of, for example, steel (steel plate). In this embodiment, the first deformation member 122 is made of steel having a tensile strength of, for example, 590 MPa or more, preferably 780 MPa or more, and more preferably 980 MPa or more or 1180 MPa or more. Alternatively, the first deformation member 122 is made of steel having a tensile strength of 1800 MPa or less. The thickness of the first deformation member 122 is, for example, 0.7 mm or more and 2.6 mm or less, and preferably 1.2 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0041] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first deformation member 122 is preferably made of steel with a Vickers hardness (HV1) of 180 or higher, preferably 240 or higher, and more preferably 300 or 340 or higher. Also, the first deformation member 122 is preferably made of steel with a Vickers hardness (HV1) of 560 or lower. "HV1" refers to the "hardness symbol" when a Vickers hardness test is performed with a test force of 1 kgf (9.807 N) (see JIS Z 2244-1:2020). The Vickers hardness of the first deformation member 122 is measured as follows. First, a sample for measurement is cut from the flat plate portion of the first deformation member 122 (for example, the upper plate portion 123a or the lower plate portion 123b) such that the cut surface (measurement surface) is parallel to the thickness direction of the flat plate portion, and the sample is embedded in resin and the cut surface is polished. Subsequently, on the cut surface (measurement surface), 10 measurements are taken at 0.5 mm intervals at a position that is 1 / 4 the thickness of the plate from the surface of the sample (the part that becomes the surface in the first deformed member 122) with a test force of 1 kgf (9.807 N), and the average is taken.

[0042] Furthermore, if the surface of the first deformable member 122 is plated, the thickness of the first deformable member 122 is measured including the plating. By setting the thickness of the first deformable member 122 within the above range, it becomes possible to achieve both a higher level of rigidity and weight reduction. The thickness of the first deformable member 122 is determined by measuring the thickness of five locations on the flat plate-shaped portion (for example, the upper plate portion 123a or the lower plate portion 123b) using a micrometer, and taking the average value. The method for measuring the hardness and thickness of the first deformable member is the same for the embodiments described later. If there are no flat plate-shaped portions in the first deformable member, the hardness and thickness are measured using the above method in a portion where the amount of bending is considered to be sufficiently small.

[0043] As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the second deformable member 124 has a pair of first plate-like portions 124a, a second plate-like portion 124b, and a third plate-like portion 124c. The pair of first plate-like portions 124a are arranged to be separated in the vertical direction Z and to face each other in the vertical direction Z. Each first plate-like portion 124a is arranged to extend along the front-rear direction X and the width direction Y.

[0044] The second plate-like portion 124b is provided so as to face the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, the second plate-like portion 124b is provided so as to extend along the front-rear direction X and the up-down direction Z, and connects the outer ends of the pair of first plate-like portions 124a in the width direction Y. In other words, the second plate-like portion 124b is provided so as to extend downward from the outer end of the upper first plate-like portion 124a in the width direction Y, and so as to extend upward from the outer end of the lower first plate-like portion 124a in the width direction Y.

[0045] The third plate-like portion 124c is provided to extend along the front-rear direction X and the up-down direction Z, and connects the inner ends of the pair of first plate-like portions 124a in the width direction Y. In other words, the third plate-like portion 124c is provided to extend downward from the inner end of the upper first plate-like portion 124a in the width direction Y, and to extend upward from the inner end of the lower first plate-like portion 124a in the width direction Y.

[0046] In this embodiment, the second deformation member 124 has a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, such that a cavity 125 extending in the front-rear direction X is formed. In this embodiment, the second deformation member 124 has a rectangular tubular shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. Although not shown in the figures, bulkheads may be provided inside the second deformation member 124 to improve the rigidity of the second deformation member 124. For example, one or more bulkheads may be provided inside the second deformation member 124 so as to divide the cavity 125 in the front-rear direction.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first deformation member 122 is fixed to the second deformation member 124 using joining means such as welding or fastening members. In this embodiment, the inner end of the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y is fixed to the second deformation member 124 (for example, the second plate-like portion). Also in this embodiment, the second deformation member 124 is fixed to the cylindrical body 110 using joining means such as welding or fastening members. In this embodiment, the second deformation member 124 is fixed to the side sill inner 112 of the cylindrical body 110. Note that in this embodiment, the outer end of the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y is not fixed to the side sill outer 114.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4, in the front-rear direction X, multiple ridges 122a of the first deformation member 122 are positioned inward of both ends of the second deformation member 124. In this embodiment, in the front-rear direction X, all of the ridges 122a of the first deformation member 122 are positioned inward of both ends of the second deformation member 124.

[0049] As shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the vertical Z length of the second deformation member 124 is greater than the vertical Z length of the first deformation member 122. The vertical Z length of the first deformation member is the vertical Z distance between the upper and lower ends of the first deformation member. Similarly, the vertical Z length of the second deformation member is the vertical Z distance between the upper and lower ends of the second deformation member. The same applies to the vertical Z lengths of other members and parts. The same applies to the embodiments described later. In this embodiment, the vertical Z length of the second plate-like portion 124b is greater than the vertical Z length of the first deformation member 122. Similarly, the vertical Z length of the third plate-like portion 124c is greater than the vertical Z length of the first deformation member 122. Furthermore, it is preferable that one first plate-like portion 124a is positioned above the first deformation member 122, and the other first plate-like portion 124a is positioned below the first deformation member 122. In other words, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions 124a are located outward in the vertical direction Z compared to the first deformable member 122.

[0050] Furthermore, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the vertical length Z of the second deformation member 124 is greater than the widthwise length Y of the second deformation member 124. The widthwise length Y of the second deformation member is the distance in the widthwise direction Y between the outer end and the inner end of the second deformation member in the widthwise direction Y. The same applies to the widthwise lengths Y of other members and parts. In addition, in this embodiment, it is more preferable that the vertical length Z of the second plate-like portion 124b is greater than the widthwise length Y of the first plate-like portion 124a in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. In this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the vertical length Z of the second plate-like portion 124b is greater than the widthwise length Y of the second deformation member 124. In addition, in this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the vertical length Z of the third plate-like portion 124c is greater than the widthwise length Y of the second deformation member 124. In this embodiment, the length of the third plate-like portion 124c in the vertical direction Z may be equal to, longer than, or shorter than the length of the second plate-like portion 124b in the vertical direction. Therefore, the shape of the second deformable member 124 in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X may be rectangular or trapezoidal.

[0051] The second deformation member 124 is made of, for example, steel. In this embodiment, the second deformation member 124 is made of steel having a tensile strength of, for example, 590 MPa or more, preferably 780 MPa or more, and more preferably 980 MPa or more or 1180 MPa or more. Alternatively, the second deformation member 124 is made of steel having a tensile strength of 2100 MPa or less. The thickness of the second deformation member 124 is, for example, 1.0 mm or more and 3.6 mm or less, preferably 1.4 mm or more and 3.0 mm or less. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as the second deformation member 124, for example, steel with a Vickers hardness (HV1) of 180 or higher is used, preferably steel with a Vickers hardness of 240 or higher, and more preferably steel with a Vickers hardness of 300 or higher or 340 or higher. Also, as the second deformation member 124, steel with a Vickers hardness (HV1) of 640 or lower is preferably used. The Vickers hardness of the second deformation member 124 is measured as follows. First, a sample for measurement is cut from a flat plate-shaped portion of the second deformation member 124 (for example, the first plate-shaped portion 124a) such that the cut surface (measuring surface) is parallel to the thickness direction of the flat plate-shaped portion, and the sample is embedded in resin and the cut surface is polished. Then, at a position that is 1 / 4 the depth of the plate thickness from the surface of the sample (the part that becomes the surface of the second deformation member 124) on the cut surface (measuring surface), 10 points are measured at 0.5 mm intervals with a test force of 1 kgf (9.807 N), and the average is taken.

[0053] Furthermore, if the surface of the second deformable member 124 is plated, the thickness of the second deformable member 124 is measured including the plating. By setting the thickness of the second deformable member 124 within the above range, it is possible to achieve both a higher level of rigidity and weight reduction. The thickness of the second deformable member 124 is determined by measuring the thickness at five locations on the flat plate-like portion (for example, the first plate-like portion 124a) using a micrometer, and taking the average value. The method for measuring the hardness and thickness of the second deformable member is the same for the embodiments described later. If there are no flat plate-like portions in the second deformable member, the hardness and thickness are measured using the above method in a portion where the amount of bending is considered to be sufficiently small.

[0054] (Effects and Benefits) Figures 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating the effects of the side member structure 100 according to this embodiment. Specifically, Figure 5 schematically shows the deformation of the side member structure 100 when the side of the vehicle body 1 (see Figure 1) collides with a cylindrical obstacle 30 such as a utility pole, and an impact load (impact energy) is input to the side member structure 100 from the outside in the width direction Y. Figure 6 schematically shows the deformation of the impact absorbing part 120 when the vehicle body 1 (see Figure 1) collides with a cylindrical obstacle 30 such as a utility pole. Note that Figure 5 is a view of the inside of the side member structure 100 from the front, and Figure 6 is a view of the impact absorbing part 120 from above.

[0055] As shown in Figure 5, when the side of the vehicle body 1 collides with the obstacle 30, the cylindrical body 110 is pushed from the outside to the inside in the width direction Y by the obstacle 30, causing the first deformable member 122 to be pushed inward in the width direction Y. Furthermore, as the first deformable member 122 is pushed inward in the width direction Y, the second deformable member 124 is pushed inward in the width direction Y by the first deformable member 122. In this embodiment, the end face 130b of the first deformable member 122 pushes the second plate-like portion 124b of the second deformable member 124 inward in the width direction Y. As a result, not only the first deformable member 122 but also the second deformable member 124 deforms. In other words, in this embodiment, the impact load can be absorbed not only by the first deformable member 122 but also by the second deformable member 124.

[0056] As shown in Figure 6, the first deformation member 122 deforms locally along the obstacle 30 due to the impact load (impact energy) input from the obstacle 30. On the other hand, as described above, the second deformation member 124 deforms to absorb the impact load from the first deformation member 122. Therefore, even if the first deformation member 122 deforms locally, it is possible to suppress the localized input of a large load to the inner part (the interior side of the vehicle body 1) in the width direction Y of the cylindrical body 110 (in this embodiment, the side sill inner 112). As a result, deformation of the inner part in the width direction Y of the cylindrical body 110 can be suppressed more effectively than when the second deformation member 124 is not provided. Furthermore, even if the collision progresses and the second deformation member 124 is completely crushed and deformed into a flat plate shape, the second plate-like portion 124b and the third plate-like portion 124c of the second deformation member 124 exist between the first deformation member 122 and the side sill inner 112. Therefore, even if the side sill inner 112 is pushed inward in the width direction Y by the deforming first deformable member 122, the deformation of the side sill inner 112 is suppressed by the second plate-like portion 124b and the third plate-like portion 124c.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first deformable member 122 is provided with multiple ridge portions 122a arranged in the front-rear direction X and each extending in the width direction Y. This allows the first deformable member 122 to buckle in a bellows-like manner in the width direction Y, thereby sufficiently absorbing impact energy in the width direction Y.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first deformation member 122 and the second deformation member 124 are fixed to each other. This allows the impact load in the width direction Y input to the first deformation member 122 to be stably transmitted by the second deformation member 124. As a result, the impact energy can be appropriately absorbed by the second deformation member 124.

[0059] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second deformable member 124 has a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. In this case, when the second deformable member 124 is pushed in the width direction Y by the first deformable member 122, the second deformable member 124 can receive a sufficient load. In particular, in this embodiment, since the second deformable member 124 has a rectangular tube shape, the second deformable member 124 can be appropriately deformed.

[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first deformation member 122 is fixed to the side sill inner 112 via the second deformation member 124. In the assembly process of the vehicle body 1, the side sill inner 112 is usually assembled to the floor panel 300 (see Figure 2) by welding or the like, and then the side sill outer 114 is assembled to the side sill inner 112 by welding or the like. Therefore, if the first deformation member 122 is to be fixed to the side sill outer 114, the side sill outer 114 with the first deformation member 122 already assembled will be assembled to the side sill inner 112. In this case, when assembling the side sill outer 114 to the side sill inner 112, the first deformation member 122 becomes an obstacle, restricting the transport path and transport posture of the side sill outer 114. On the other hand, in this embodiment, as described above, the first deformation member 122 is fixed to the side sill inner 112 via the second deformation member 124. Therefore, in the assembly process of the vehicle body 1, the side sill outer 114 can be assembled to the side sill inner 112 after the first deformation member 122 and the second deformation member 124 have been assembled to the side sill inner 112. In this case, the transport path and transport posture of the side sill outer 114 are not restricted, so the side sill outer 114 can be efficiently assembled to the side sill inner 112.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. In this case, when the second deformation member 124 is pressed and crushed by the first deformation member 122, it can deform to enclose the inner end of the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y. This prevents the side sill inner 112 from being directly pressed inward in the width direction Y by the first deformation member 122. As a result, it is possible to sufficiently suppress the local application of a large load to the side sill inner 112, and thus sufficiently suppress the deformation of the side sill inner 112. In particular, in this embodiment, the pair of first plate-like portions 124a (see Figure 2) are located outward in the vertical direction Z than the first deformation member 122. This is possible to sufficiently suppress the side sill inner 112 from being directly pressed inward in the width direction Y by the first deformation member 122.

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the cross-section of the first deformable member 122 perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the end face 130a is provided outside the width direction Y of the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y, and the end face 130b is provided inside the width direction Y of the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y. By arranging the first deformable member 122 in this way, when an impact load (impact energy) is input to the side member structure 100 from the outside in the width direction Y, the first deformable member 122 can be reliably deformed into a bellows-like shape in the width direction Y. As a result, the impact load can be sufficiently absorbed by the first deformable member 122.

[0063] Furthermore, in this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second deformable member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y. In this case, when the second deformable member 124 is pressed by the first deformable member 122 and completely crushed, it becomes easier for it to deform to extend in the vertical direction Z, and to deform to enclose the inner end of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y. This is because, compared to the case where the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the vertical direction Z, the first plate-like portion 124a of the second deformable member 124 becomes easier to deflect at one point in the width direction Y, and the second deformable member 124 becomes easier to deform to extend in the vertical direction Z. As a result, it is possible to sufficiently suppress the side sill inner 112 from being directly pressed inward in the width direction Y by the first deformable member 122. In particular, in this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion 124b in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y. This makes it easier for the second plate-like portion 124b to deform so as to wrap around the inner end of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y when the second deformable member 124 is pressed and crushed by the first deformable member 122. As a result, the direct pressing of the side sill inner 112 toward the inside in the width direction Y by the first deformable member 122 can be more sufficiently suppressed. However, if the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the vertical direction Z, the first plate-like portion 124a of the second deformable member 124 may bend at multiple points in the width direction Y, making it difficult for the second deformable member 124 to deform in a way that allows it to stretch stably in the vertical direction Z. Therefore, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-to-back direction X, it is preferable to make the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0064] Furthermore, by reducing the length in the width direction Y of the first plate-like portion 124a of the second deformation member 124, the length in the width direction Y of the first deformation member 122 can be relatively increased. This makes it easier to buckle the first deformation member 122 in a bellows-like manner in the width direction Y, and increases the area in which buckle deformation occurs in a bellows-like manner, so that the impact energy in the width direction Y can be sufficiently absorbed by the first deformation member 122.

[0065] (modified version) In the side member structure 100 shown in Figure 2, the outer end of the first deformation member 122 and the inner end of the second deformation member 124 are in contact with the cylindrical body 110 in the width direction Y. However, the positional relationship between the cylindrical body 110 and the shock absorbing part 120 is not limited to the above example. For example, as shown in Figure 7, a gap may be formed between the first deformation member 122 and the side sill outer 114 in the width direction Y. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0066] In the embodiment described above, the second deformation member 124 is fixed to the side sill inner 112, and the outer end of the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y is not fixed to the side sill outer 114. However, as shown in Figure 8, the first deformation member 122 may be fixed to the side sill outer 114. In this case, as shown in Figure 8, the second deformation member 124 may not be fixed to the side sill inner 112. In the embodiment described later, the second deformation member 124 may be fixed to the side sill inner 112, or it may not be fixed to the side sill inner 112. Although not shown, the first deformation member 122 may be fixed to the side sill outer 114, and the second deformation member 124 may be fixed to the side sill inner 112. The same applies to the embodiment described later.

[0067] In the embodiments described above, a case was described in which the shock absorbing section 120 comprises one first deformation member 122 and one second deformation member 124. However, the number of first deformation members 122 and second deformation members 124 provided in the shock absorbing section 120 is not limited to the example above. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the shock absorbing section 120 may comprise a plurality of first deformation members 122 arranged in the vertical direction Z, and a plurality of second deformation members 124 provided corresponding to the plurality of first deformation members 122. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0068] Furthermore, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the impact absorbing section 120 may include a plurality of first deformation members 122 arranged in the vertical direction Z, and a single second deformation member 124 provided in common to the plurality of first deformation members 122. The same applies to the embodiments described later. When the impact absorbing section 120 includes a plurality of first deformation members 122, the dimensions of the plurality of first deformation members 122 may be the same or different. The same applies to the second deformation member 124. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions 124a are located outward in the vertical direction Z from the plurality of first deformation members 122. Also, similar to the embodiments described above, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion 124b in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0069] Although not shown in the figures, the impact absorbing section 120 may include a plurality of first deformation members 122 arranged in the front-rear direction X. In this case, a plurality of second deformation members 124 may be provided corresponding to the plurality of first deformation members 122, or a single second deformation member 124 may be provided in common to the plurality of first deformation members 122. The same applies to the embodiments described later. The impact absorbing section 120 may also include a plurality of second deformation members 124 arranged in the front-rear direction X, and a single first deformation member 122 provided in common to the plurality of second deformation members 124. The same applies to the embodiments described later. The first deformation member 122 may also be composed of a plurality of members arranged in the front-rear direction X. In this case, the plurality of members constituting the first deformation member 122 are fixed to each other by joining means such as welding or fastening members. For example, the first deformation member 122 may be composed of a plurality of plate materials arranged in the front-rear direction X and fixed to each other. Similarly, the second deformation member 124 may be composed of multiple members. A bulkhead may be provided inside the cylindrical body 110 to divide the space within the cylindrical body 110 in the front-rear direction X. In this case, the first deformation member 122 and the second deformation member 124 may be provided in front of and behind the bulkhead, respectively.

[0070] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the second deformation member 124 has a rectangular tube shape was explained, but the shape of the second deformation member 124 is not limited to the above example. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the second deformation member 124 may have a hat-shaped member 40 and a flat plate-shaped closure 42 such that it has a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. The hat-shaped member 40 has a pair of wall portions 40a, a pair of flange portions 40b, and a top plate portion 40c such that it has a hat shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X.

[0071] The pair of wall portions 40a are provided so as to be separated in the vertical direction Z and facing each other in the vertical direction Z. The pair of flange portions 40b are provided so as to extend upward or downward from the outer ends of the pair of wall portions 40a in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, one flange portion 40b is provided so as to extend upward from the upper wall portion 40a, and the other flange portion 40b is provided so as to extend downward from the lower wall portion 40a. The top plate portion 40c is provided so as to extend along the vertical direction Z and connects the inner ends of the pair of wall portions 40a in the width direction Y. The closure 42 is provided so as to extend along the vertical direction Z and connects the pair of flange portions 40b. The closure 42 is fixed to the pair of flange portions 40b, for example, by welding. In this embodiment, the closure 42 corresponds to a plate-shaped member, the wall portion 40a corresponds to a first plate-shaped portion, the pair of flange portions 40b and the closure 42 correspond to a second plate-shaped portion, and the top plate portion 40c corresponds to a third plate-shaped portion.

[0072] Similar to the embodiments described above, in this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the length of the second plate-like portion (more specifically, the closure 42) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Also in this embodiment, the length of the third plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions (wall portions 40a) are located outward in the vertical direction Z compared to the first deformation member 122. Also, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y. More preferably, in this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the third plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first plate-like portion (wall portion 40a) in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-to-back direction X, the length of the third plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0073] Furthermore, considering ease of construction, it is preferable that the second deformation member 124 is composed of multiple members, as shown in Figure 11, compared to the case where the second deformation member 124 is composed of a rectangular tube, as shown in Figure 2. In this embodiment, for example, in the assembly process of the vehicle body 1, the hat-shaped member 40 can be assembled to the side sill inner 112, and the closure 42 can be assembled to the first deformation member 122. After that, by fixing the closure 42 to the pair of flange portions 40b of the hat-shaped member 40, the first deformation member 122 and the second deformation member 124 can be easily assembled to the side sill inner 112. Although a detailed explanation is omitted, for example, as shown in Figure 12, a mounting portion 123d may be formed on the first deformation member 122. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 123d is formed to extend upward or downward from the inner end in the width direction Y of the upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b. By fixing the mounting portion 123d and the closure 42 by welding or the like, the closure 42 can be easily assembled to the first deformation member 122. In the example shown in Figure 12, the mounting portion 123d is formed to extend inward from the upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b in the vertical direction Z, but the mounting portion 123d may be formed to extend outward from the first deformation member 122. That is, each mounting portion 123d may be formed to extend in the opposite direction from the mounting portion 123d shown in Figure 12 from the upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b.

[0074] In the example shown in Figure 11, the top plate portion 40c is formed in a flat shape, but as shown in Figure 13, a concave bead 40d may be formed on the top plate portion 40c so as to extend in the front-rear direction X. The same applies to the embodiments described later.

[0075] As shown in Figure 14, the orientation of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y shown in Figure 11 may be reversed. In this embodiment, the closure 42 corresponds to the plate-shaped member, the wall portion 40a corresponds to the first plate-shaped portion, the top plate portion 40c corresponds to the second plate-shaped portion, and the pair of flange portions 40b and the closure 42 correspond to the third plate-shaped portion. In this embodiment, the hat-shaped member 40 can be easily assembled to the first deformation member 122 by fixing the mounting portion 123d (Figure 12) of the first deformation member 122 and the top plate portion 40c by welding, for example.

[0076] Similar to the embodiments described above, in this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the length of the second plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions (wall portions 40a) are located outward in the vertical direction Z compared to the first deformation member 122. Also, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y. More preferably, in this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first plate-like portion (wall portion 40a) in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-to-back direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0077] Although not shown in the illustrations, in the side member structure 100 shown in Figures 11 and 13, the upper and lower ends of the closure 42 may be bent in the width direction Y. Specifically, for example, the upper end of the closure 42 may be bent inward in the width direction Y (towards the hat-shaped member 40) so as to pass above the upper flange portion 40b, and the lower end of the closure 42 may be bent inward in the width direction Y (towards the hat-shaped member 40) so as to pass below the lower flange portion 40b. In this case, the rigidity of the closure 42 can be improved, making it less likely for the closure 42 to deform during a collision, and improving the collision characteristics, thereby further suppressing the deformation of the side sill inner 112. In addition, in the side member structure 100 shown in Figures 11 and 13, the upper and lower ends of the closure 42 may be bent outward in the width direction Y (opposite side from the hat-shaped member 40). Furthermore, in the side member structure 100 shown in Figure 14, the upper end of the closure 42 may be bent outward in the width direction Y (towards the hat-shaped member 40) so as to pass above the upper flange portion 40b, and the lower end of the closure 42 may be bent outward in the width direction Y (towards the hat-shaped member 40) so as to pass below the lower flange portion 40b.

[0078] As shown in Figure 15, the second deformation member 124 may have a pair of hat-shaped members 40 such that it has a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X. In this embodiment, a pair of flange portions 40b of one hat-shaped member 40 and a pair of flange portions 40b of the other hat-shaped member 40 are fixed to each other. In this embodiment, each wall portion 40a of the pair of hat-shaped members 40 corresponds to a first plate-like portion, the top plate portion 40c of the outer hat-shaped member 40 in the width direction Y corresponds to a second plate-like portion, and the top plate portion 40c of the inner hat-shaped member 40 in the width direction Y corresponds to a third plate-like portion. In this embodiment as well, one hat-shaped member 40 can be easily assembled to the first deformation member 122 by fixing the mounting portion 123d (Figure 12) of the first deformation member 122 to the top plate portion 40c of one of the hat-shaped members 40 by welding, for example.

[0079] Similar to the embodiments described above, in this embodiment as well, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. In this embodiment, the length of the second plate-like portion (the top plate portion 40c of the outer hat-shaped member 40 in the width direction Y) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Also, the length of the third plate-like portion (the top plate portion 40c of the inner hat-shaped member 40 in the width direction Y) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Furthermore, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions (the pair of upper wall portions 40a and the pair of lower wall portions 40a) are located outward in the vertical direction Z from the first deformation member 122. In addition, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y. More preferably, in this embodiment, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y. Furthermore, it is even more preferable that in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the third plate-like portion in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0080] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the second deformation member 124 has a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X was explained, but the second deformation member 124 does not have to have a closed cross-sectional shape. For example, as shown in Figures 16 and 17, a gap 124d may be formed in the second plate-like portion 124b of the second deformation member 124 so as to extend in the front-rear direction X. In these examples, the second plate-like portion 124b includes a first portion 1241b above the gap 124d and a second portion 1242b below it. In the example shown in Figure 17, the lower end of the first portion 1241b and the upper end of the second portion 1242b each have a shape that is bent inward in the width direction Y. Also, for example, as shown in Figures 18 and 19, a gap 124e may be formed in the third plate-like portion 124c of the second deformation member 124 so as to extend in the front-rear direction X. In these examples, the third plate-like portion 124c includes a first portion 1241c above the gap 124e and a second portion 1242c below it. In the example shown in Figure 19, the lower end of the first portion 1241c and the upper end of the second portion 1242c are bent outward in the width direction Y. In the embodiments shown in Figures 16 to 19, as in the embodiments described above, it is preferable that the length of the second deformable member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformable member 122 in the vertical direction Z. It is also preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions 124a are located outward in the vertical direction Z compared to the first deformable member 122. Furthermore, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformable member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0081] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 20, the second deformation member 124 does not necessarily have a third plate-like portion 124c. In this case as well, similar to the embodiments described above, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Also, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions 124a are located outward in the vertical direction Z compared to the first deformation member 122. In addition, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y. Furthermore, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is more preferable that the length of the second plate-like portion 124b in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first plate-like portion 124a in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion 124b in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21, for example, the second deformation member 124 may be composed of a hat-shaped member 40 and may not have a closure 42. In this embodiment, the wall portion 40a corresponds to the first plate-like portion, the top plate portion 40c corresponds to the second plate-like portion, and the pair of flange portions 40b correspond to the third plate-like portion. In this case as well, similar to the embodiment described above, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformation member 122 in the vertical direction Z. Also, it is preferable that the pair of first plate-like portions (wall portion 40a) are located outward in the vertical direction Z than the first deformation member 122. Furthermore, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, it is preferable that the length of the second deformation member 124 in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformation member 124 (or wall portion 40a) in the width direction Y. More preferably, in this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first plate-like portion (wall portion 40a) in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X, the length of the second plate-like portion (top plate portion 40c) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the second deformable member 124 in the width direction Y.

[0083] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the first plate-like portion (first plate-like portion 124a or wall portion 40a) of the second deformation member 124 is formed in a flat plate shape was explained, but the shape of the first plate-like portion of the second deformation member 124 is not limited to the above example. For example, bead-shaped irregularities or steps may be formed on the first plate-like portion of the second deformation member 124 so as to extend in the front-rear direction X and to be recessed or protruded in the up-down direction Z. In this case, when a side collision occurs and the second deformation member 124 is pushed by the first deformation member 122 and completely crushed, it becomes easier for the second deformation member 124 to deform so as to extend in the up-down direction Z, starting from the bead-shaped irregularities or steps. As a result, the second deformation member 124 becomes easier to deform so as to wrap around the inner end of the first deformation member 122 in the width direction Y.

[0084] The shape of the first deformation member 122 is not limited to the shape shown in Figure 4, and various shapes of the first deformation member 122 can be used. For example, as shown in Figure 22, a corrugated sheet may be used as the first deformation member 122 in which the connecting portion 123c is provided substantially perpendicular to the upper plate portion 123a and the lower plate portion 123b. In other words, the first deformation member 122 may have a shape in which the contours repeat along the front-to-back direction X, so as to draw a rectangular wave when viewed from the width direction Y.

[0085] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 23, for example, a corrugated sheet having a shape that repeats indentations and protrusions along the front-to-back direction X, so as to draw a sinusoidal wave when viewed from the width direction Y, may be used as the first deformation member 122. In this embodiment, the bottom of the recesses (troughs) and the vertices of the convex parts (peaks) of the first deformation member 122, which has a sinusoidal shape when viewed from the width direction Y, become the ridge lines 122a, respectively.

[0086] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 24, for example, a corrugated sheet having a shape that repeats arc-shaped indentations along the front-to-back direction X when viewed from the width direction Y may be used as the first deformation member 122. In this embodiment as well, the bottom of the recesses (troughs) and the vertices of the convex parts (peaks) of the first deformation member 122 become the ridge lines 122a, respectively. Although not shown in the figures, a corrugated sheet having a shape that repeats indentations along the front-to-back direction X so as to draw other waveforms such as triangular waves or sawtooth waves when viewed from the width direction Y may also be used as the first deformation member 122.

[0087] In the embodiments shown in Figures 9 and 10, a case was described in which a plurality of first deformation members 122 are provided spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. However, a plurality of first deformation members 122 provided in a vertical direction may be fixed to each other. For example, as shown in Figure 25, two first deformation members 122 provided in a vertical direction may be fixed to each other so as to form a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the width direction Y. In this embodiment, the two first deformation members 122 are fixed to each other in the vertical direction Z by joining means such as welding or fastening members. In this embodiment as well, each first deformation member 122 has a plurality of upper plate portions 123a, a plurality of lower plate portions 123b, and a plurality of connecting portions 123c, similar to the first deformation member 122 shown in Figure 4. The boundary portions (bent portions) between the connecting portions 123c and the upper plate portions 123a and the boundary portions (bent portions) between the connecting portions 123c and the lower plate portions 123b each become ridge portions 122a. Furthermore, each first deformable member 122 may have a shape that repeats bumps and dips along the front-to-back direction X, such that it draws a waveform such as a rectangular wave when viewed from the width direction Y.

[0088] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 26, for example, the first deformation member 122 may have a plurality of rectangular tubular members 52 that are aligned in the front-to-back direction X and extend in the width direction Y. In this embodiment, when viewed from the width direction Y, the four corners of each tubular member 52 become the ridges 122a. When using the first deformation member 122 shown in Figure 26, for example, the first deformation member 122 and the second deformation member 124 are provided such that the plurality of tubular members 52 are positioned inward from both ends of the second deformation member 124 (see Figure 4) in the front-to-back direction X.

[0089] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 27, for example, the first deformation member 122 may have a plurality of cylindrical members 54 that are aligned in the front-rear direction X and extend in the width direction Y. When using the first deformation member 122 shown in Figure 27, for example, the first deformation member 122 and the second deformation member 124 are provided such that the plurality of cylindrical members 54 are positioned inward from both ends of the second deformation member 124 (see Figure 4) in the front-rear direction X. In this embodiment, the vertices of each cylindrical member 54 in the vertical direction Z are defined as ridges 122a. In this embodiment, when viewed from the width direction Y, the upper and lower ends of each cylindrical member 54 are ridges 122a.

[0090] The shape of the first deformation member is not limited to the examples described above, and various members capable of absorbing impact loads in the width direction Y can be used as the first deformation member. However, it is preferable that the side member structure has a specific range in which, when the first deformation member is cut by a first plane perpendicular to the vertical direction, a plurality of first cross-sections extending linearly in the width direction are formed in the first deformation member so as to be aligned in the front-to-back direction. The first plane and the specific range will be described in detail below.

[0091] The following describes how to define a specific range in the first deformable member 122 shown in Figure 4. First, as shown in Figure 28, the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y is cut by a virtual plane 400 (second plane) perpendicular to the width direction Y, and the resulting cross-section (second cross-section) is identified. In this embodiment, the cross-section 500 (second cross-section) shown in Figure 29 is identified. Note that in Figure 28, the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y is shown by a dashed line. Also, in Figure 29, only a part of the cross-section 500 of the first deformable member 122 is shown.

[0092] Next, as shown in Figure 29, a specific range is defined. In this embodiment, the specific range is the range in the front-rear direction defined by the six ridge portions 122a arranged in the front-rear direction X on the cross-section 500 of the first deformable member 122. In other words, the specific range is the range in the front-rear direction X from the front ridge portion 122a to the rear ridge portion 122a of the six ridge portions 122a arranged in the front-rear direction X on the cross-section 500 of the first deformable member 122. In Figure 29, one specific range is indicated by an arrow, but multiple specific ranges can be defined as long as the above requirements are met. For example, the range in the front-rear direction defined by the dashed straight line in Figure 29 is also a specific range.

[0093] Next, the first deformable member 122 is cut by a virtual plane 402 (first plane) passing through the vertical center of a specific range of the cut surface 500, and the resulting cut surface (first cut surface) is identified. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 30, a plurality of cut surfaces 502 (first cut surfaces) are identified so as to extend linearly in the width direction Y and be aligned in the front-to-back direction X. Note that in Figure 30, only the cut surfaces 502 within the specific range are shown among the plurality of cut surfaces 502.

[0094] In this embodiment, in the side member structure 100, as described above, at least one specific range is provided in the first deformable member 122 where a plurality of cross-sectional surfaces 502 extending linearly in the width direction Y are arranged in the front-rear direction X. This allows the first deformable member 122 to be reliably deformed in a bellows-like manner by buckling when an impact load (impact energy) is input to the side member structure 100 from the outside in the width direction Y. As a result, the impact load can be sufficiently absorbed by the first deformable member 122. It is preferable that the second plate-like portion of the second deformable member 124 faces the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y, at least in a specific range.

[0095] As shown in Figure 31, for example, if a through hole is formed in the center of the connecting portion 123c, multiple cross-sections 504 (second cross-sections) can be obtained by cutting the center of the first deformable member 122 in the width direction Y with a virtual plane 400 (see Figure 28) perpendicular to the width direction Y. In such cases, the plane 402 (first plane) for identifying the first cross-section passes through the center in the vertical direction Z of the specified range of the multiple second cross-sections 504. Although a detailed explanation is omitted, as shown in Figures 32 and 33, even when the first deformable member 122 is composed of multiple cylindrical members 52, 54, the specified range in the front-to-back direction is defined by the six ridge portions 122a aligned in the front-to-back direction X in one or more second cross-sections of the first deformable member 122.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the length of the second deformable member 124 (or second plate-like portion) in the vertical direction Z is greater than the length of the first deformable member 122 in the vertical direction Z over the entire area of ​​the first deformable member 122 in the front-rear direction X. However, in a part of the area of ​​the first deformable member in the front-rear direction X, the length of the second deformable member 124 (preferably the second plate-like portion) in the vertical direction Z may be greater than the length of the first deformable member in the vertical direction Z. For example, in the above specific range where a plurality of first cross-sections extending linearly in the width direction Y are arranged in the front-rear direction X, the length of the second deformable member 124 (preferably the second plate-like portion) in the vertical direction Z may be greater than the length of the first deformable member in the vertical direction Z. Also, for example, in the above specific range, a pair of first plate-like portions may be located outside the first deformable member in the vertical direction Z. Also, for example, in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X in the above specific range, the length of the second deformable member in the vertical direction Z may be greater than the length of the second deformable member in the width direction Y. Furthermore, for example, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X within the specified range described above, the length of the second plate-like portion in the vertical direction Z may be greater than the length of the first plate-like portion or the second deformable member in the width direction Y. Furthermore, for example, in a cross-section perpendicular to the front-rear direction X within the specified range described above, the length of the third plate-like portion in the vertical direction Z may be greater than the length of the first plate-like portion or the second deformable member in the width direction Y. [Industrial applicability]

[0097] According to the present invention, a side member structure for a vehicle body is obtained that can further suppress deformation of the inner portion of the cylindrical body. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1. Vehicle body 10 frames 20 Battery Cases 22 Battery Packs 40 Hat-shaped member 42 closures 100 Side member structure 110 Cylinder 112 Side sill inner 114 Side sill outer 120 Shock Absorbing Section 122 First deformed member 122a Ridgeline 124 Second deformed member 124a First plate-like part 124b Second plate-like portion 124c Third plate-like part 200 Intersecting members 300 Floor Panels

Claims

1. A side member structure of the vehicle body, The vehicle body comprises a cylindrical body extending in the longitudinal direction, and an impact-absorbing part disposed inside the cylindrical body so as to extend in the longitudinal direction. The impact absorbing portion includes a first deformation member provided to extend in the front-rear direction, and a second deformation member provided inside the first deformation member in the width direction of the vehicle body and extending in the front-rear direction. The second deformable member has a pair of first plate-like portions provided separately in the vertical direction and facing each other in the vertical direction, and a second plate-like portion extending along the vertical direction from the outer end in the width direction of each first plate-like portion so as to face the first deformable member in the width direction. The first deformable member includes a corrugated sheet having a shape that repeats indentations and protrusions along the front-rear direction, The aforementioned corrugated sheet is In the cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction, the first end face is provided on the outside in the width direction of the corrugated sheet, and extends in the front-rear direction, In the cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction, a second end face is provided inward in the width direction from the center of the corrugated sheet in the width direction, and extends in the front-rear direction, It has a plurality of ridges that are arranged in the front-to-back direction and each extends in the width direction, The first end face and the second end face are each provided so as to extend in the thickness direction of the corrugated sheet, When the corrugated sheet is cut with a first plane perpendicular to the vertical direction, a plurality of first cutting surfaces extending linearly in the width direction are formed in the corrugated sheet so as to be aligned in the front-to-back direction. The plurality of ridges and the plurality of first cross-sections are a side member structure of the vehicle body that extends from the first end face to the second end face.

2. A side member structure for a vehicle body, The vehicle body comprises a cylindrical body extending in the longitudinal direction, and an impact-absorbing part disposed inside the cylindrical body so as to extend in the longitudinal direction. The impact absorbing portion includes a first deformation member provided to extend in the front-rear direction, and a second deformation member provided inside the first deformation member in the width direction of the vehicle body and extending in the front-rear direction. The second deformable member has a pair of first plate-like portions provided separately in the vertical direction and facing each other in the vertical direction, and a second plate-like portion extending along the vertical direction from the outer end in the width direction of each first plate-like portion so as to face the first deformable member in the width direction. The first deformable member has a plurality of ridges that are arranged in the front-rear direction and each extends in the width direction, When the first deformable member is cut by a first plane perpendicular to the vertical direction, the first deformable member has a specific range in which a plurality of first cross-sections extending linearly in the width direction are formed to be aligned in the front-to-back direction. The specified range is the range in the front-to-back direction defined by the six ridge lines arranged in the front-to-back direction in one or more second cross-sections of the first deformable member obtained by cutting the center of the first deformable member in the width direction with a second plane perpendicular to the width direction, The first plane passes through the vertical center of the specific range of the one or more second cross-sections, A side member structure of a vehicle body, wherein, within the specified range, the pair of first plate-like portions are located outward in the vertical direction from the first deformable member.

3. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second deformable member further comprises a third plate-like portion extending in the vertical direction from the inner end in the width direction of each of the first plate-like portions.

4. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 3, wherein the second deformable member has a closed cross-sectional shape such that a cavity extending in the front-rear direction is formed.

5. The side member structure of the vehicle body according to claim 4, wherein the second deformable member has a rectangular tubular shape.

6. The second deformable member includes a plate-shaped member and a hat-shaped member provided on the inside of the plate-shaped member in the width direction, The hat-shaped member has a pair of flange portions fixed to the plate-shaped member, a pair of first plate-shaped portions extending inward in the width direction from the pair of flange portions, and a third plate-shaped portion connecting the inner ends of the pair of first plate-shaped portions in the width direction. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 4, wherein the second plate-like portion includes the plate-like member and the pair of flange portions.

7. The second deformable member includes a plate-shaped member and a hat-shaped member provided on the outside of the plate-shaped member in the width direction, The hat-shaped member has a pair of flange portions fixed to the plate-shaped member, a pair of first plate-shaped portions extending outward from the pair of flange portions in the width direction, and a second plate-shaped portion connecting the outer ends of the pair of first plate-shaped portions in the width direction. The side member structure of the vehicle body according to claim 4, wherein the third plate-like portion includes the plate-like member and the pair of flange portions.

8. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second deformable member is fixed to the first deformable member.

9. The cylindrical body includes a side sill inner having a shape that opens outward in the width direction, and a side sill outer having a shape that opens inward in the width direction and is provided outside the side sill inner in the width direction. The side member structure of the vehicle body according to claim 8, wherein the second deformable member is fixed to the side sill inner.

10. The side member structure of the vehicle body according to claim 2, wherein the first deformable member includes a corrugated sheet.

11. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 2, wherein the first deformable member has a plurality of cylindrical members arranged in the front-rear direction and each extending in the width direction.

12. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, in the front-rear direction, the plurality of ridges of the first deformable member are positioned inward from both ends of the second deformable member.

13. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 11, wherein, in the front-rear direction, the plurality of cylindrical members of the first deformable member are positioned inward from both ends of the second deformable member.

14. When the corrugated sheet is cut in the first plane, the corrugated sheet has a specific range in which the plurality of first cut surfaces are formed to be aligned in the front-to-back direction, The aforementioned specific range is the range in the front-to-back direction defined by the six ridges arranged in the front-to-back direction in one or more second cross-sections of the corrugated sheet obtained by cutting the center of the corrugated sheet in the width direction with a second plane perpendicular to the width direction, The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 1, wherein the first plane passes through the vertical center of the specific range of the one or more second cross-sections.

15. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 14, wherein, within the specified range, the vertical length of the second deformable member is greater than the vertical length of the first deformable member.

16. The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 14, wherein, within the specified range, the pair of first plate-like portions are located outward in the vertical direction from the first deformable member.

17. The first deformed member is, In the cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction, the first deformable member is provided on the outside in the width direction of the center in the width direction of the first deformable member, and the first end face extends in the front-rear direction, The side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 2, further comprising: a second end face that extends in the front-rear direction and is provided in a cross section perpendicular to the front-rear direction, on the side member structure of a vehicle body, on the side member structure of a vehicle body, on the side member structure of a vehicle body, on the side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 2 and on the side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 2, on the side member structure of a vehicle body according to claim 2, on the side

18. The first end face and the second end face are each provided so as to extend in the thickness direction of the first deformable member, The vehicle body side member structure according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of ridges and the plurality of first cross-sections extend from the first end face to the second end face.

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