Components, structures, and automobiles

Abstract

This member is a hollow tubular member whose closed cross-section is formed by a first member having a top plate portion and a side wall portion formed continuously with the top plate portion via a ridge line, and a second member provided at a position opposite the top plate portion of the first member, wherein at the intersection, a reinforcing member is arranged at a position continuous with respect to one or more first directional ends and corner ridge lines that do not touch each other, or the reinforcing member is arranged on at least a part of the first ridge line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a member, a structure, and a vehicle. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-122585 filed in Japan on July 29, 2024, and incorporates its content herein.

Background Art

[0002] In vehicles, while reduction of CO2 emissions is required, collision safety regulations are being tightened. Therefore, automotive members are required to reduce the weight of the members themselves, which contributes to the overall weight reduction of the vehicle, and characteristics that contribute to improving the collision safety of the vehicle, such as anti-collision characteristics.

[0003] Regarding the improvement of the collision safety of vehicles, conventionally, there is a structure provided with an energy absorption portion that is deformed by a load input via a bumper during a collision from the front or rear, and absorbs collision energy, in a straight portion on the front side in the rail portion of the front structure of the vehicle, or in a straight portion on the rear side in the rail portion of the rear structure of the vehicle (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] The rail portion in the front structure or rear structure of a vehicle generally has a closed cross-sectional structure. In the rear rail of Patent Document 1, it includes a straight portion on the rear side, a straight portion on the front side with a different tube axis position from this, and a bent portion arranged between the straight portion on the rear side and the straight portion on the front side. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which by making the product of the material strength and the plate thickness in the bent portion larger than the product of the material strength and the plate thickness in the straight portion on the rear side, collision energy can be appropriately absorbed during a rear collision.

[0005] On the other hand, as mentioned above, automobiles are required to reduce CO2 emissions, and automotive components are required to contribute to improved collision safety and weight reduction. In response to this, in recent years, there has been progress in considering the integration of multiple components into a single molded unit in order to significantly reduce the number of components and the number of processes and man-hours. As part of this, the integration of the rear structure is being considered. Here, integrating multiple components into a single molded unit means that multiple components, which were conventionally molded in separate processes and then joined together, are molded as a single blank unit before molding. Compared to the conventional method of preparing a blank (material) for each component, molding them in separate processes, and then joining them together, integrating multiple components into a single molded unit is expected to significantly reduce the number of components and the number of processes and man-hours. However, in the case of hollow members having a top plate and side walls, which are generally used in rear structures, when multiple members extending in intersecting directions (e.g., side members and cross members) are molded together as a single unit, the molded product inevitably has a structure in which the side wall of one member has a large cutout in the portion where it intersects (is fastened) with the other member. With such a structure, if a large load is applied during a collision, there is a concern that the cutout portion will deform significantly, and the intended deformation mode will not occur.

[0006] Patent Document 1 does not address the challenges involved in integrating multiple components in this manner. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japan Special Publication No. 2022-547492 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a member, a structure equipped with the member, and an automobile that have excellent collision resistance even when the side walls of the intersecting portions are notched, such as when multiple members extending in intersecting directions are molded together as a single unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The inventors investigated a method for obtaining sufficient collision resistance even when a structure is formed in which a large portion of the side wall of one member is cut out at the point where it intersects (is fastened) with another member, such as when multiple members extending in intersecting directions are molded as a single unit. As a result, they found that collision resistance can be improved by appropriately placing reinforcing members at the intersections (connecting parts) of multiple members. Furthermore, they found that the increase in weight can be suppressed by limiting the area where reinforcing members are placed (reinforcement range) to the most effective part of the intersection.

[0010] This invention was made in view of the above findings. The gist of this invention is as follows. [1] A member according to one aspect of the present invention is a hollow tubular member having a top plate portion, a side wall portion formed continuously with the top plate portion via a ridge line, and a second member provided at a position opposite the top plate portion of the first member, wherein the closed cross-section is formed by these two members. The aforementioned member is The first part is where the axial direction of the pipe is the first direction, The second part is in a second direction, where the axial direction of the pipe intersects with the first direction, It has, One end of the second portion is connected to the first portion at a position separated from the end of the first portion, such that the hollow portion of the first portion and the hollow portion of the second portion are in communication. When viewed from above, the first member has a ridge line that The first ridge extending in the aforementioned first direction, The second ridge extending in the second direction, A corner ridge having curvature, with both ends connected to the first ridge and the second ridge, respectively. It has, The connection point between the corner ridge and the first ridge is defined as the first end, and the connection point between the corner ridge and the second ridge is defined as the second end. The straight line connecting the first toe end to the first ridge line opposite the top plate portion via the shortest distance is defined as the first direction end, and the straight line connecting the two toe ends on either side of the top plate portion is defined as the second direction end. When viewed from above, the area enclosed by the corner ridge, the first directional end, the first ridge sandwiched between the first directional ends, and the second directional end is defined as the intersection. At the aforementioned intersection, Reinforcement members are positioned at locations that are continuous with one or more of the first directional end and the corner ridges, respectively, and do not touch each other, or The reinforcing member is positioned on at least a portion of the first ridge. Occasionally, The reinforcing member does not cover the entire surface of the intersection. . [2] The member described in [1] may be positioned at the intersection so as to be continuous from one of the corner ridges to the other corner ridge. [3] The member described in [1] may be positioned at the intersection at a location continuous from one of the first direction ends to the other first direction end and the second direction end. [4] [2] The member described above may have the reinforcing member arranged along the entire ridge of one of the corner portions of the intersection. [5] [2] The member described above may have the reinforcing member arranged along the entire ridge of both corner portions of the intersection. [6] The member described in [3] may have the reinforcing member arranged along the entire ridge of both corner portions of the intersection. [7] [5] The member described in [5] may be such that the reinforcing member is disposed over the entire range of the intersection portion surrounded by the corner portion ridge line, the straight line connecting the first stop ends, and the straight line connecting the second stop ends. [8] [6] The member described in [6] may be such that the reinforcing member is disposed over the entire range of the intersection portion surrounded by the corner portion ridge line, the straight line connecting the first stop ends, and the straight line connecting the second stop ends. [9] [1] The member described in [1] may be such that, at the intersection portion, the reinforcing member is disposed at a position continuous from one of the first direction end portions to the other first direction end portion.

[10] [9] The member described in [9] may be such that at least a part of the reinforcing member is disposed on the first ridge line of the intersection portion.

[11]

[10] The member described in

[10] may be such that the reinforcing member is further disposed over the entire first ridge line of the intersection portion.

[12] [1] to

[11] The member described in any one of [1] to

[11] is such that the second member has a top plate portion and a side wall portion continuously formed via a ridge line, When the second member is viewed in plan, the ridge line is a first ridge line extending in the first direction, a second ridge line extending in the second direction, has a curvature, and a corner portion ridge line whose both ends are respectively connected to the first ridge line and the second ridge line, and has Taking the connection portion of the corner portion ridge line and the first ridge line of the second member as the first stop end, the connection portion of the corner portion ridge line and the second ridge line as the second stop end, the straight line connecting the first stop end to the first ridge line facing across the top plate portion at the shortest distance as the first direction end portion, and the straight line connecting the second stop ends across the top plate portion as the second direction end portion, when the range surrounded by the corner portion ridge line, the first direction end portion, the first ridge line sandwiched between the first direction end portions, and the second direction end portion is defined as the intersection portion when viewed in plan, At the intersection of the second member, one or more of the first-direction end portions and the corner ridge lines may have a reinforcing member arranged at continuous positions to one or more of another first-direction end portion, second-direction end portion, and corner ridge line that do not contact each other, or the reinforcing member may be arranged on at least a part of the first ridge line.

[13] A structure according to another aspect of the present invention includes the member according to any one of [1] to

[11] .

[14] An automobile according to another aspect of the present invention includes the member according to any one of [1] to

[11] .

[15] In the automobile of

[14] , the angle formed by the first direction of the member and the vehicle longitudinal direction may be within 30°.

[16] A structure according to another aspect of the present invention includes the member according to

[12] .

[17] An automobile according to another aspect of the present invention includes the member according to

[12] .

[18] In the automobile of

[17] , the angle formed by the first direction of the member and the vehicle longitudinal direction may be within 30°. [Advantages of the Invention]

[0011] According to the above aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a member having excellent anti-collision characteristics, and a structure and an automobile including the member. By improving the anti-collision characteristics of the member, it contributes to improving the collision safety in an automobile or the like in which the member is used. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0012] <000例117>It is a schematic plan view of the member according to the present embodiment (the reinforcing member is not shown). [Figure 2A] It is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A-A in FIG. [Figure 1] , and is a schematic view in the case where the second member is a flat closing plate. [Figure 2B] It is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A-A in FIG. [Figure 1] , and is a schematic view in the case where the second member is a hat-shaped member. [Figure 3A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to line BB in Figure 1, and shows the case where the second member is a flat closing plate. [Figure 3B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to line BB in Figure 1, where the second member is a hat-shaped member. [Figure 4A] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 4B] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 4C] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 4D] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of reinforcing members in the member according to this embodiment. [Figure 12A] This is a schematic diagram of an example in which the member according to this embodiment is connected to a side member in its first part and to a cross member in its second part. [Figure 12B] This is a schematic diagram of an example where the member according to this embodiment is an integrated member in which the first part is a side member and the second part is a cross member. [Figure 13A]This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13B] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13C] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13D] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13E] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13F] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13G] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13H] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13I] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13J] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13K] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Figure 13L] This diagram shows the position of the reinforcing members of the components used in the example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Hereinafter, a component (component according to this embodiment), a structure (structure according to this embodiment), and an automobile (automobile according to this embodiment) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0014] As shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, or 3B, member 1 according to this embodiment is a hollow tubular member formed by a first member 11 and a second member 12 with a closed cross-section, and as shown in Figure 1 (a view from the first member side in plan view), it has a first portion 101 whose pipe axis direction is the first direction 31, a second portion 102 whose pipe axis direction is the second direction 32 which is the direction intersecting the first direction 31, and an intersection portion 103 connecting the first portion and the second portion. If the second portion extends only to one side of the first portion (the left side in Figure 1), and the first direction 31 and the second direction 32 are substantially perpendicular (for example, the angle between them is 80 to 100°), then member 1 becomes a so-called T-shape. This T-shape is preferable because, compared to other shapes (e.g., U-shape, U-shape), when a load is applied from the tip of the first part, the first part is less likely to tilt in a direction perpendicular to the load. Figures 2A and 2B show schematic cross-sectional diagrams along line AA in Figure 1, and Figures 3A and 3B show schematic cross-sectional diagrams along line BB in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, the member 1 according to this embodiment is a hollow tubular member whose closed cross-section is formed by a first member 11 having a top plate portion 13 and a side wall portion 14 formed continuously with the top plate portion 13 via a ridge (first ridge 51 or second ridge 52), and a second member 12 provided at a position opposite the top plate portion 13 of the first member 11. The first member 11 may have a flange portion 15 if necessary. That is, it may be a so-called hat-shaped member having a top plate portion, a side wall portion and a flange portion. One end of the second part 102 is connected to the first part 101 at a position separated from the end of the first part 101, such that the hollow portion of the first part 101 and the hollow portion of the second part 102 are in communication with each other. That is, at the connection point between the first part 101 and the second part 102, a portion of the side wall 14 of the first part 101 is absent, and an opening is provided. In the first part 101, except for the opening, the ridge line (first ridge line 51) and the side wall 14 are formed in pairs on both sides of the top plate 13. In the second part 102, the ridge line (second ridge line 52) and the side wall 14 are formed in pairs on both sides of the top plate 13. A side wall 14 is formed at a position opposite the opening of the first part 101.

[0015] The second member 12 is not limited as long as it is a member that is positioned opposite the top plate portion 13 of the first member 11 and is arranged together with the first member 11 to form a closed cross-section. For example, as shown in Figures 2A and 3A, the second member 12 may be a flat closing plate, or, as shown in Figures 2B and 3B, it may be a so-called hat-shaped member having a top plate portion and a side wall portion 14 formed continuously via a ridge, and a flange portion 15 if necessary, similar to the first member 11.

[0016] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, the member 1 according to this embodiment is constructed by joining a first member 11 and a second member 12 together vertically. If the member has a top plate portion 13 and a side wall portion 14, for example, it can be formed by processing a steel plate into a predetermined shape to create a blank, and then using a so-called hot stamping method. In this embodiment, member 1 is a hollow tubular member with a closed cross-section formed by joining a first member 11 and a second member 12. The method of joining the first member 11 and the second member 12 is not limited and may be a known method. For example, if the first member 11 and the second member 12 have flange portions 15, the flange portions 15 can be joined together, for example, using resistance spot welding. Alternatively, a structural adhesive can be used in combination with spot welding. In the diagram, the first member 11 is the upper member and the second member 12 is the lower member, but the second member 12 may be the upper member and the first member 11 may be the lower member. Furthermore, although member 1 according to this embodiment is a hollow tubular member, other members may be arranged in the hollow portion.

[0017] From the viewpoint of reducing the number of components and the number of processes and man-hours, it is preferable that the first component 11 is a component obtained by integrally molding the first part 101, the second part 102, and the intersection 103. As for the range of integral molding, for the first part 101, it is preferable that the range is 50 mm or longer, and more preferably 100 mm or longer, in the direction along the first direction from one end and / or the other end of the intersection 103. Furthermore, for the second part 102, it is preferable that the range is 10 mm or longer, and more preferably 30 mm or longer, in the direction along the second direction. Whether a component is obtained by integral molding can be determined, for example, by whether, in the first component 11, there are no spot weld marks (excluding spot weld marks for joining the first component and the reinforcing component 21, and spot weld marks for joining the first component 11 and the second component 12) at the connection between the first component 101 and the intersection 103, and at the connection between the second component 102 and the intersection 103, or whether there are no overlapping sections at each connection point. Alternatively, if wrinkles or defects from the molding process exist, it can be determined by their continuity.

[0018] The hot stamping method is a process in which a blank steel sheet is heated, shaped using a mold, and then rapidly cooled by the mold to create a blank with the desired strength and shape. The heating temperature of the blank should be above the Ac3 point. The Ac3 point is the temperature at which ferrite disappears from the metal structure of the blank. The metal structure after processing by the hot stamping method is mainly composed of martensite.

[0019] Furthermore, the first member 11 and the second member 12 may be members formed by performing a hot stamping method on a so-called tailored blank. A tailored blank is a member formed by welding together multiple types of steel plates with different tensile strengths and / or thicknesses (including cases where the tensile strength is the same but the thickness is different, the thickness is the same but the tensile strength is different, or both the tensile strength and thickness are different). The first member 11 and the second member 12 formed from such a tailored blank are made to have partially different tensile strengths or thicknesses.

[0020] When forming a tailored blank using the hot stamping method, heating the tailored blank to an Ac3 point or higher makes it possible to eliminate the heat-affected zone of the weld that remained after manufacturing the tailored blank.

[0021] In the member 1 according to this embodiment, it is preferable that the height of the top plate portion 13 of the first part 101 of the first member 11 and the height of the top plate portion 13 of the second part 102 do not differ significantly at the connection point. For example, it is preferable that the difference between the height of the top plate portion 13 of the first part 101 and the height of the top plate portion 13 of the second part 102 is less than or equal to the height of the first ridge line 51, more preferably less than or equal to the thickness of the top plate portion 13 of the first part 101, and even more preferably that the heights of the top plate portion 13 of the first part 101 and the top plate portion 13 of the second part 102 are substantially the same. A small difference between the height of the top plate portion 13 of the first part 101 and the height of the top plate portion 13 of the second part 102 makes it less likely for bending to occur at the connection point between the first part 101 and the second part 102 when an impact load is applied. If the second member 12 is a hat-shaped member, it is preferable that the height of the top plate portion 13 of the first portion 101 and the height of the top plate portion 13 of the second portion 102 do not differ significantly at the connection point.

[0022] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the member 1, when viewed from above, has a first member 11, as shown in Figure 1, which has a first ridge line 51 extending in the first direction 31, a second ridge line 52 extending in the second direction 32, and a corner ridge line 53 that has curvature and whose ends are connected to the first ridge line 51 and the second ridge line 52, respectively. In member 1 according to this embodiment, when viewed from above, the connection point between the corner ridge 53 and the first ridge 51 is defined as the first toe 61, the connection point between the corner ridge 53 and the second ridge 52 is defined as the second toe 62, the straight line connecting the first toe 61 to the opposite first ridge 51 across the top plate 13 is defined as the first direction end 41, and the straight line connecting the two second toe 62s across the top plate 13 is defined as the second direction end 42. The area enclosed by the corner ridge 53, the first direction end 41, the first ridge 51 sandwiched between the first direction end 41, and the second direction end 42 (the area enclosed by the dotted line in Figure 1) is defined as the intersection 103. When a ridge line has curvature in cross-sectional view, it will have a certain width in plan view, as shown in Figure 1, etc. However, for the corner ridge line 53, first toe 61, and second toe 62 used in the definition of the intersection 103, these are defined as positions on the ridge line that are far from the pipe axis (positions that are on the outside (edge) of the member when viewed in plan). Similarly, when the straight line connecting the first toe 61 to the first ridge line 51 opposite the top plate portion 13 by the shortest distance is defined as the first direction end 41, the end of the straight line is defined as a position on the first ridge line 51 that is far from the pipe axis (positions that are on the outside (edge) of the member when viewed in plan). In other words, the intersection 103 is the area enclosed by the dotted line in Figures 1, 4A to 11. Part of the corner ridge line 53 constitutes part of the first direction end 41 and part of the second direction end 42. Furthermore, the first direction end 41 includes the first toe 61, and the second direction end 42 includes the second toe 62.

[0023] A key feature of member 1 according to this embodiment is that a reinforcing member 21 is arranged at the intersection 103 in the following manner. This reinforcing member 21 improves the collision resistance characteristics. In this embodiment, the statement that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned at a predetermined location when viewed from above means that the reinforcing member 21 is fixed in a position that overlaps with the predetermined location when viewed from above, and it is not necessary for the reinforcing member to be positioned at a location that can be directly observed (outer surface side) when viewed from above. In other words, it means that the reinforcing member may be positioned on the inner surface side of the tube of a tubular member. Whether a reinforcing member is positioned in the designated location is determined based on the position of each member to which the reinforcing member is located (the first member if the reinforcing member is fixed to the first member, or the second member if the reinforcing member is fixed to the second member). In this embodiment, the state in which the reinforcing member 21 is fixed in a position that overlaps with a predetermined position when viewed from above means that the reinforcing member 21 is fixed in direct contact with the first member or the second member at at least one point (preferably at multiple points, more preferably over substantially the entire surface) of the intersection. For example, even if the reinforcing member is joined to the first member or the second member only at the flange portion and appears to be positioned in a position that overlaps with a predetermined position when viewed from above, if it is spaced apart from the first member 11 and the second member 12, it cannot be said that the reinforcing member 21 is fixed in a position that overlaps with a predetermined position. This is because, when spaced apart in this way, the reinforcing member 21 cannot adequately bear the stress on the first member 11 and the second member 12. As described above, the reinforcing member 21 may be placed on the outer surface side of the tubular member or on the inner surface side, but if it is on the outer surface side there is a concern that it may interfere with other members, so it is preferable to place it on the inner surface side. The reinforcing member may be, for example, a resin fiber, or a metal material such as aluminum or steel, but it is preferable that it be a steel material such as a steel plate because it is easy to join. It is preferable that the tensile strength of the reinforcing member is equal to or greater than the tensile strength of the member on which the reinforcing member is placed.

[0024] The method of attaching (fixing) the reinforcing member 21 to the first member 11 is not limited. For example, resistance spot welding or laser welding can be applied.

[0025] Furthermore, the timing of attaching the reinforcing member 21 to the first member 11 is not limited. The reinforcing member 21 may be attached to the first member 11 while it is still a blank, and the blank with the reinforcing member 21 attached may be pressed to obtain the first member 11 with the reinforcing member 21 in place. Alternatively, the reinforcing member 21 may be attached after the first member 11 has been obtained by pressing.

[0026] The specific arrangement of the reinforcing members 21 will now be explained.

[0027] In member 1 according to this embodiment, at the intersection 103, a reinforcing member 21 is positioned at a continuous location from one or more of the first direction end 41 and corner ridge 53 to another first direction end 41, second direction end 42, and corner ridge 53 that do not touch each other (however, in the case of the corner ridge 53, the starting and ending points are the outside of the intersection 103 (the outside (edge) of the member when viewed from above)), or the reinforcing member 21 is positioned on at least a part of the first ridge 51. In other words, at the intersection 103, a reinforcing member 21 is arranged that extends from one end (the first direction end 41, the second direction end 42, and the outside of the intersection 103 of the corner ridge line 53) to another end. Alternatively, a reinforcing member 21 is arranged on at least a portion of the first ridge line 51 of the intersection 103. For example, at the intersection 103, as shown in Figure 4A, the reinforcing member 21 is positioned to extend from one of the first direction ends 41 to the other first direction end 41; or as shown in Figure 4B, the reinforcing member 21 is positioned to extend from one of the first direction ends 41 to the other first direction end 41 and the second direction end 42; or as shown in Figure 4C, the reinforcing member 21 is positioned to extend from one of the corner ridges 53 to the other corner ridge; or as shown in Figure 4D, the reinforcing member 21 is positioned on at least a portion of the first ridge 51 of the intersection 103. Here, when we say that the reinforcing members 21 are positioned in a continuous position at the intersection 103, it means that at least a portion of the reinforcing member 21 is connected (not completely interrupted) from one of the first direction ends 41 to the other first direction end 41, or from one of the first direction ends 41 to the second direction end 42, or from one of the corner ridges 53 to the other corner ridge 53. This includes cases such as when there is a hole in a part of the reinforcing member 21 or when the width of the reinforcing member 21 changes, as shown in Figure 5. In this case, a sufficient improvement in collision resistance can be obtained with less weight compared to the case where the entire surface of the intersection 103 is covered. In particular, Figure 4C is preferable because, by arranging the reinforcing member so as to be continuous from one corner ridge 53 to the other corner ridge 53, the load is transmitted in the order from the first ridge 51 connected to the corner ridge 53, to the corner ridge 53, the reinforcing member 21, to the other corner ridge 53, and then to the first ridge 51 connected to this corner ridge 53, a greater effect can be obtained. The thickness of the reinforcing member 21 is not limited, but is preferably 1.0 to 3.0 mm. The following are some further examples.

[0028] In member 1 according to this embodiment, when a reinforcing member 21 is positioned at the intersection 103, extending from one first direction end 41 to the other first direction end 41, it is preferable that at least a portion of the reinforcing member 21 is positioned on the first ridge line 51 of the intersection 103 (overlapping with the first ridge line 51), as shown in Figure 6. Since the load is mainly transmitted through the ridge line, the collision resistance is further improved by positioning the reinforcing member 21 on the first ridge line 51 of the intersection 103. It is even more preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned over the entire first ridge line 51 of the intersection 103, as shown in Figure 7. From the viewpoint of collision resistance, it is even more preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned to overlap not only the entire first ridge line 51 of the intersection 103, but also a part of the top plate portion 13 of the intersection 103, for example, in a range of 1 / 4 or more of the length from the first ridge line 51 to the first direction end 41, as shown in Figure 8. It is even more preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned to overlap not only the entire first ridge line 51 of the intersection 103, but also in a range of 1 / 2 or more of the length from the first ridge line 51 to the first direction end 41 of the top plate portion 13 of the intersection 103. There is no upper limit to the overlapping range, but it may be positioned to overlap in a range of 3 / 4 or less of the length from the first ridge line 51 to the first direction end 41 of the top plate portion 13 of the intersection 103.

[0029] Furthermore, in member 1 according to this embodiment, when the reinforcing member 21 is positioned at a continuous location from one corner ridge 53 to the other corner ridge 53 at the intersection 103 (as described above, in the case of corner ridges 53, the outside of the intersection (the outside (edge) of the member when viewed from above) is used as the starting and ending point), as shown in Figure 9, it is preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned over the entire length of one corner ridge 53 of the intersection 103, and more preferably that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned over the entire length of both corner ridges 53 of the intersection 103, as shown in Figure 10. By placing the reinforcing member 21 along the entire ridge line 53 of at least one corner section, the corner section ridge line 53, where stress tends to concentrate, can be reinforced, thereby improving collision resistance. However, if the amount of reinforcing members is reduced to suppress the increase in weight, the reinforcing members 21 may be placed along the entire ridge line 53 of the corner section opposite to the load input side, while the reinforcing members 21 may not be placed along the entire ridge line 53 of the other corner section.

[0030] Furthermore, in the member 1 according to this embodiment, when a reinforcing member 21 is arranged at a continuous position from one of the first direction ends 41 to the other first direction end 41 and the second direction end 42 at the intersection 103, it is preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is arranged along the entire length of both corner ridges 53. As described above, stress tends to concentrate along the corner ridges 53, so the collision resistance is further improved by arranging the reinforcing member 21 along the corner ridges 53. In this case, the reinforcing member is positioned in a continuous location from one corner ridge 53 to the other corner ridge 53.

[0031] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, it is more preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned over the entire area enclosed by the corner ridge 53, the straight line connecting the first toe ends 61, and the straight line connecting the second toe ends 62 at the intersection 103. In this case, the rigidity is increased and the deformation of the intersection is suppressed, further improving the collision resistance. Here, the corner ridge 53, the first toe ends 61, and the second toe ends 62 are assumed to be located away from the pipe axis of the corner ridge (away from the pipe axis when viewed from above) when the corner ridge 53 has a certain width when viewed from above, as explained in the definition of the intersection 103. Furthermore, if the corner ridge line 53 has a certain width when viewed from above, and the intersection point between the first direction end 41 and a position close to the pipe axis of the corner ridge line 53, adjacent to the above-mentioned range, is defined as 61', then, as shown in Figure 11, in addition to the above-mentioned range, the reinforcing member 21 may also be placed in the range enclosed by the straight line connecting the 61's and the straight line connecting the first direction end 41,41 and the first end 61.

[0032] In member 1 according to this embodiment, the reinforcing member 21 may be arranged in a combination of the above. Furthermore, in terms of improving collision resistance, the reinforcing member 21 may be arranged over the entire intersection 103, but if the reinforcing member 21 covers the entire surface of the intersection 103, although the effect of improving collision resistance can be obtained, the weight will increase significantly, so it is preferable that the reinforcing member 21 does not cover the entire surface of the intersection 103 in the pattern described above.

[0033] Furthermore, in member 1 according to this embodiment, the reinforcing member 21 is arranged at least at the intersection 103 as described above, but the reinforcing member 21 may also be arranged over the first part 101 and / or the second part 102 other than the intersection 103. In this case, the collision resistance characteristics are further improved. The range of arrangement other than the intersection 103 is not limited, but for example, the reinforcing member 21 may be arranged in the second part 102 from the second direction end 42 in the direction away from the intersection 103 in a range of 10 mm to 100 mm (for example, in the range of 10 mm, 50 mm, or 100 mm (in other words, with the second direction end at position 0 mm, in the range of 0 to 10 mm, 0 to 50 mm, or 0 to 100 mm)), or the reinforcing member 21 may be arranged in the first part 101 from the first direction end 41 in the direction away from the intersection 103 in a range of 10 to 100 mm. However, if the range of arrangement of the reinforcing member 21 is widened, the weight of the member will increase. The placement of reinforcing members 21 in areas other than the intersection 103 tends to have less effect than the placement of reinforcing members 21 in areas other than the intersection 103. Therefore, in order to reduce weight, the placement of reinforcing members 21 in areas other than the intersection 103 may be kept to a minimum, or reinforcing members 21 may be placed only in the intersection 103.

[0034] Furthermore, in member 1 according to this embodiment, the reinforcing member 21 is positioned at a location that overlaps with at least the intersection 103 when viewed from above. However, the reinforcing member 21 may also be positioned (fixed to) the side wall portion 14. In this case, the collision resistance characteristics are further improved. The range of the side wall portion is not limited, but for example, the reinforcing member 21 may be positioned in the range from 1 / 10 to 1 / 2 of the height of the side wall portion 14 from the ridge line (in other words, with the boundary between the ridge line and the side wall portion being at position 0 mm, the range from 0 mm to 1 / 10 of the height of the side wall portion, the range from 0 mm to 1 / 4 of the height of the side wall portion, or the range from 0 mm to 1 / 2 of the height of the side wall portion). It is preferable that the reinforcing member 21 positioned on the side wall portion 14 extends from the reinforcing member 21 positioned on the intersection 103 (is connected to the reinforcing member 21 positioned on the intersection 103). However, if the range of positioning of the reinforcing member 21 is widened, the weight of the member will increase. The placement of reinforcing members 21 on the side wall portion 14 tends to have less effect than the placement of reinforcing members 21 on the top plate portion 13 or the ridge line. Therefore, to reduce weight, the placement of reinforcing members 21 on the side wall portion 14 may be limited to a minimum extent. In addition, a side wall portion is not formed at the connection point where the hollow portion of the first portion 101 and the hollow portion of the second portion 102 are connected (the side wall portion is cut out). However, when placing a reinforcing member at a position continuous from one of the first direction ends to the other first direction end, the reinforcing member 21 may be made L-shaped, having a surface parallel to the top plate portion 13 and a surface extending in a direction intersecting the top plate portion 13 (for example, approximately perpendicular), so that the surface of the reinforcing member 21 extending in a direction intersecting the top plate portion is placed in the cut-out portion of the side wall portion. In this case as well, the collision resistance characteristics will be further improved. To minimize weight increase, the surface of the reinforcing member 21 extending in a direction intersecting the top plate portion does not need to be placed in the portion of the side wall that is cut out.

[0035] Furthermore, in the member 1 according to this embodiment, a reinforcing member 21 may be provided not only on the first member 11 but also on the second member 12. When a reinforcing member 21 is provided on the second member 12, it is preferable that, similar to the first member 11, the reinforcing member 21 is provided at a position in the intersection 103 that is continuous from one or more of the first direction end 41 and the corner ridge 53 to another first direction end 41, second direction end 42, and corner ridge 53 that do not touch each other, or that the reinforcing member 21 is provided on at least a part of the first ridge 51. For example, in the second member 12, similar to the first member 11, it is preferable that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned at the intersection 103 in a continuous position from one of the first direction ends 41 to the other first direction end 41, or in a continuous position from one of the first direction ends 41 to the other first direction end 41 and the second direction end 42, or in a continuous position from one of the corner ridges 53 to the other corner ridge 53, or that the reinforcing member 21 is positioned on at least a part of the first ridge 51 of the intersection 103. Furthermore, in the second member 12, similar to the first member, reinforcing members 21 may also be placed in areas other than the intersection 103, for example, in areas of the top plate portion 13 other than the intersection 103, and / or in the side wall portion 14.

[0036] The component 1 according to this embodiment can be applied as part of the structure of a vehicle such as an automobile. That is, the structure according to this embodiment includes the component according to this embodiment. For example, in the member according to this embodiment, as shown in Figure 12A, by connecting the side member 201 to the first part 101 and the cross member 202 to the second part 102, and using it as a connecting part between the side member 201 and the cross member 202, the structure according to this embodiment can be formed. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12B, the structure according to this embodiment may have a first portion 101 that is part of the side member 201 and a second portion 102 that is part of the cross member 202. In other words, the structure may include a member in which the side member, cross member, and connecting portion are integrally molded. Integrating the member into an integral form is preferable because it reduces the number of parts and the number of processes and man-hours required. When applied as part of the structure of a vehicle such as an automobile, the thickness of the intersection of the first member and the second member of the member according to this embodiment is preferably 0.8 to 2.3 mm, and the tensile strength of the intersection is preferably 1500 MPa or more. The tensile strength of the intersection 103 may be higher than that of the first part 101 and the second part 102 (including when it is integrated with a side member or cross member).

[0037] The automobile according to this embodiment comprises the components according to this embodiment described above, or a structure according to this embodiment that includes the components according to this embodiment described above. In the following, we will describe an example in which the component 1 according to this embodiment, which is provided in the automobile according to this embodiment, is an integrated component (sometimes referred to as a structure according to this embodiment) in which the first part 101 is a side member 201 and the second part 102 is a cross member 202.

[0038] As shown in Figure 12B, the structure according to this embodiment is a structure comprising, for example, a side member 201 which is a first part 101 arranged along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and a cross member 202 which is a second part 102 arranged along the left-right (width) direction of the vehicle and connecting a pair of side members 201. This intersection 103 is the intersection 103 of the member according to this embodiment shown in Figure 1, or any of Figures 4A to 11. Furthermore, in the structure shown in Figure 12B, a bumper beam 203 may be provided, as indicated by the dashed line, which is joined to one end of a pair of side members 201. As can be understood from the arrangement of the bumper beam 203, in the structure shown in Figure 12B, the side of the pair of side members 201 facing the bumper beam 203 is the side where a collision is expected (the load input side). In other words, in this case, the automobile according to this embodiment is an automobile in which this structure is located at the rear of the vehicle. However, the placement is not limited to the rear of the vehicle, but can also be located at the front of the vehicle. Also, considering the direction of load input, it is preferable that the angle between the first direction of the member according to this embodiment and the longitudinal direction of the automobile according to this embodiment is within 30°, more preferably within 10°, and even more preferably substantially parallel. When a bumper beam 203 is provided, the bumper beam 203 becomes straight during a collision, and as a result, load is more easily applied to the ridge on the outside of the first part (the outside in the width direction of the vehicle in the structure according to this embodiment). Therefore, in such cases, reinforcing the first ridge (the ridge on the outside of the first part of the intersection 103) is particularly effective.

[0039] As shown in Figure 12B, the first part 101 (side member 201) of the member included in the structure according to this embodiment may include a curved portion 204. Including the curved portion 204 is preferable because it can avoid interference with other members, such as the wheel wells that house the front or rear wheels of the vehicle, the engine, battery, axle, etc. However, when attaching the bumper beam 203 to the first part 101, it is preferable that the curved portion is not included on the bumper beam 203 side than the connection portion (intersection) between the side member 201 and the cross member 202.

[0040] In the structure including the member according to this embodiment, when external stress is input due to a collision, the connection portion (intersection) between the side member 201 and the cross member 202 is reinforced, so that the collision energy can be absorbed by preferentially deforming the side of the side member 201 on the bumper beam 203 side rather than the intersection 103.

[0041] The end of the side member 201 opposite to the bumper beam 203 can be joined to other structures that make up the vehicle's cabin.

[0042] Furthermore, in the structure according to this embodiment, the thickness, yield strength, or tensile strength of the side member 201 may be reduced in the region on the bumper beam 203 side of the intersection 103 compared to the intersection 103. This ensures that when a collision load is applied, the region on the bumper beam 203 side deforms more preferentially than the intersection 103. [Examples]

[0043] A model was created to perform FEM analysis. The model is shaped to resemble the structure of an automobile vehicle, with dimensions of 1100mm in the vehicle's left-right (width) direction and 1800mm in the vehicle's front-rear direction. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 12B, the member consists of a side member in the first part and a cross member in the second part, with reinforcing members placed in various patterns at the T-shaped intersection, as shown in Figures 13A to 13L (a pattern without reinforcing members was also created for comparison). The arrangement of each pattern is as follows. In Figures 13A to 13L, the area enclosed by the dashed line (----) is the intersection. Pattern 1: As shown in Figure 13A, the reinforcing member is placed in a position that includes the entire intersection. Pattern 2: As shown in Figure 13B, at the intersection, a reinforcing member is positioned continuously from the first direction end to the second direction end, and a reinforcing member is also positioned on a part of the first ridge of the intersection. Pattern 3: As shown in Figure 13C, the reinforcing members are positioned at the intersection so as to extend from one of the first-direction ends to the other first-direction end and the second-direction end, and the reinforcing members are positioned along the entire first ridge of the intersection. Pattern 4: As shown in Figure 13D, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection so as to be continuous from the first direction end to the second direction end. Pattern 5: As shown in Figure 13E, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection in a continuous manner from one of the first direction ends to the other first direction end, and is also positioned along the entire first ridge of the intersection. Pattern 6: As shown in Figure 13F, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection so as to be continuous from one of the first direction ends to the other first direction end and the second direction end, and is positioned over the entire area of ​​the intersection enclosed by the corner ridge, the straight line connecting the first toe ends, and the straight line connecting the second toe ends. Pattern 7: As shown in Figure 13G, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection so as to be continuous from one of the first-direction ends to the other first-direction end. Pattern 8: As shown in Figure 13H, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection so as to be continuous from one corner ridge to the other. Pattern 9: As shown in Figure 13I, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection in a continuous manner from one of the first-direction ends to the other first-direction end, and is also positioned on a part of the first ridge of the intersection. Pattern 10: As shown in Figure 13J, the reinforcing member is positioned to extend continuously from one corner ridge to the other, and is also positioned along the entire length of both corner ridges at the intersection. Pattern 11: As shown in Figure 13K, the reinforcing member is positioned on a portion of the first ridge at the intersection. Pattern 12: As shown in Figure 13L, the reinforcing member is positioned at the intersection so as to be continuous from one corner ridge to the other, and is positioned along the entire length of one of the corner ridges at the intersection.

[0044] In this component, as shown in Figures 2B and 3B, both the first and second components are hat-shaped components obtained by hot stamping steel plates, and the first and second components are hollow components joined at the flange portion. Furthermore, the first portion is a tailored blank, and the part from the intersection towards the bumper beam (hereinafter referred to as the tip) and the second portion are made of steel with a tensile strength of 1000 MPa and a thickness of 1.0 mm, while the rest of the first portion is made of steel with a tensile strength of 2000 MPa and a thickness of 1.4 mm. Furthermore, the reinforcing members were made of steel plates with a thickness of 1.4 mm and a tensile strength of 2000 MPa. These reinforcing members were placed on the inner surface of the hollow members by spot welding, at the same positions on both the first and second members (so that the positions of the reinforcing members on the first and second members coincide when viewed from above).

[0045] FEM analysis was performed on these models with altered reinforcing member placements under the following conditions. This allowed us to calculate the energy absorption at the tip and the energy absorption at the intersection, respectively. conditions • Assuming a rear offset collision like the FMVSS301R, the conditions were set to collide the Moving Deformable Barrier (MDB) model from the bumper beam side. The condition was to completely restrain the side member at a position 1150 mm from the end of the bumper beam, on the opposite side of the intersection. The collision speed of the MDB was assumed to be 80 km / h. The weight of the MDB was set to 1360 kgf. • The overlap between the vehicle being evaluated and the MDB (Multi-Digital Board) was set at 70% of the vehicle's length.

[0046] The analysis results evaluated the effect of the reinforcing member by the ratio (EA1 / EA2) of the energy absorption at the tip (EA1) to the energy absorption at the intersection (EA2). Specifically, the following was used. ◎: EA1 / EA2 is 30 or more ○: EA1 / EA2 is between 12 and less than 30. △: EA1 / EA2 is between 8 and 12. ×: EA1 / EA2 is less than 8

[0047] Furthermore, the weight increase was evaluated according to the following criteria. △ Weight increase exceeds 3.0% ○ Weight increase of more than 2.0% and less than or equal to 3.0% ◎ Weight increase is 2.0% or less The results are shown in Table 1.

[0048] [Table 1]

[0049] As can be seen from Table 1, in Nos. 1 to 12, where a reinforcing member is positioned at a continuous location from one or more first-direction ends and corner ridges to another first-direction end, second-direction end, and corner ridge that does not touch each other, or where a reinforcing member is positioned on at least a part of the first ridge of the intersection, the connection part (intersection) between the side member and the cross member is made of a reinforced member. As a result, the side of the side member deforms preferentially on the bumper beam side rather than at the intersection, and the amount of collision energy absorbed is increased (the reinforcing member is functioning more effectively), thus improving collision resistance. In particular, the effect was especially great when, as in No. 1 and No. 6, the reinforcing member was positioned at the intersection, continuously extending from one corner ridge to the other, and covering the entire area of ​​one or both corner ridges, and encompassing the entire area enclosed by the straight line connecting the first ends and the second ends of the corner ridges at the intersection, or when, as in No. 1, No. 3, and No. 5, the reinforcing member was positioned at the intersection, continuously extending from one end in one direction to the other, and covering the entire first ridge at the intersection. This is presumed to be because the load is mainly transmitted through the ridges, and the effect was great because the reinforcing member was positioned to cover the ridges. On the other hand, considering the need to suppress weight increase, No. 2, No. 4 to No. 12 are preferable. That is, in No. 5 and No. 6, the effect of the reinforcing member was great while suppressing weight increase. [Industrial applicability]

[0050] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a member with excellent collision resistance, a structure equipped with the member, and an automobile. By improving the collision resistance of the member, it is possible to improve collision safety in automobiles and the like in which the member and the structure equipped with the member are used. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0051] Component 1 First component 11 Second component 12 Top panel 13 Side wall section 14 Flange section 15 Reinforcement member 21 Part 1 101 Second part 102 Intersection 103 first direction 31 second direction 32 First direction end 41 Second direction end 42 First ridgeline 51 Second ridgeline 52 Corner ridge 53 First toe 61 Second toe 62 Side Member 201 Crossmember 202 Bumper beam 203 Curved section 204

Claims

1. A hollow tubular member having a top plate portion and a side wall portion formed continuously with the top plate portion via a ridge line, and a second member provided at a position opposite the top plate portion of the first member, wherein the closed cross-section is formed by these two members. The aforementioned member is The first part is where the axial direction of the pipe is the first direction, The second part is in a second direction, where the axial direction of the pipe intersects with the first direction, It has, One end of the second portion is connected to the first portion at a position separated from the end of the first portion, such that the hollow portion of the first portion and the hollow portion of the second portion are in communication. When viewed from above, the first member has a ridge line that The first ridge extending in the aforementioned first direction, The second ridge extending in the second direction, A corner ridge having curvature, with both ends connected to the first ridge and the second ridge, respectively. It has, The connection point between the corner ridge and the first ridge is defined as the first end, and the connection point between the corner ridge and the second ridge is defined as the second end. The straight line connecting the first toe end to the first ridge line opposite the top plate portion via the shortest distance is defined as the first direction end, and the straight line connecting the two toe ends on either side of the top plate portion is defined as the second direction end. When viewed from above, the area enclosed by the corner ridge, the first directional end, the first ridge sandwiched between the first directional ends, and the second directional end is defined as the intersection. At the aforementioned intersection, Reinforcement members are positioned at locations that are continuous with one or more of the first directional end and the corner ridges, respectively, and do not touch each other, or The reinforcing member is arranged on at least a portion of the first ridge, The reinforcing member does not cover the entire surface of the intersection. The reinforcing member is not joined to the flange portion of the first member and the flange portion of the second member. Here, the arrangement of the reinforcing member at the intersection of the first member means that the reinforcing member is fixed in a position that overlaps with a predetermined position when viewed from above, and the fixed state means that the reinforcing member is fixed in direct contact with the first member at at least one point of the intersection. A component characterized by the following features.

2. At the aforementioned intersection, the reinforcing member is positioned at a continuous location from one of the corner ridges to the other corner ridge. The member according to claim 1, characterized in that

3. At the intersection, the reinforcing member is positioned at a location that is continuous from one of the first directional ends to the other first directional end and the second directional end. The member according to claim 1, characterized in that

4. The member according to claim 2, characterized in that the reinforcing member is arranged over the entire ridge of one of the corner portions of the intersection.

5. The member according to claim 2, characterized in that the reinforcing member is arranged along the entire ridge of both corner portions of the intersection.

6. The member according to claim 3, characterized in that the reinforcing member is arranged over the entire ridge of both corner portions of the intersection.

7. The reinforcing member is arranged over the entire area of ​​the intersection that is enclosed by the corner ridge, the straight line connecting the first ends, and the straight line connecting the second ends. The member according to claim 5, characterized in that

8. The reinforcing member is arranged over the entire area of ​​the intersection that is enclosed by the corner ridge, the straight line connecting the first ends, and the straight line connecting the second ends. The member according to claim 6, characterized in that

9. At the intersection, the reinforcing member is positioned at a location continuous from one of the first directional ends to the other first directional end. The member according to claim 1, characterized in that

10. At least a portion of the reinforcing member is positioned on the first ridge of the intersection. The member according to claim 9, characterized in that

11. The reinforcing member is further arranged along the entire first ridge of the intersection. The member according to claim 10, characterized in that

12. The second member has a top plate portion and a side wall portion that is continuously formed with respect to the top plate portion via a ridge line. When viewed from above, the second member has a ridge that The first ridge extending in the aforementioned first direction, The second ridge extending in the second direction, A corner ridge having curvature, with both ends connected to the first ridge and the second ridge, respectively. It has, When the connection point between the corner ridge and the first ridge of the second member is defined as the first toe, the connection point between the corner ridge and the second ridge is defined as the second toe, the straight line connecting the first toe to the first ridge opposite the top plate portion via the shortest distance is defined as the first direction end, the straight line connecting the two second toe points on either side of the top plate portion is defined as the second direction end, and when viewed from above, the area enclosed by the corner ridge, the first direction end, the first ridge portion sandwiched between the first direction ends, and the second direction end is defined as the intersection, At the intersection of the second member, Reinforcement members are positioned at locations that are continuous with each other, extending from one or more of the first directional ends and the corner ridges to one or more of the first directional ends, the second directional ends, and the corner ridges, or The reinforcing member is positioned on at least a portion of the first ridge. Here, the arrangement of the reinforcing member at the intersection of the second member means that the reinforcing member is fixed in a position that overlaps with a predetermined position when viewed from above, and the fixed state means that the reinforcing member is fixed in direct contact with the second member at at least one point of the intersection. A member according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that

13. A member comprising the member described in any one of claims 1 to 11, A structure characterized by the following features.

14. A member comprising the member described in any one of claims 1 to 11, An automobile characterized by the following features.

15. The automobile according to claim 14, characterized in that the angle between the first direction of the member and the longitudinal direction of the vehicle is 30° or less.

16. The member comprising the member described in claim 12, A structure characterized by the following features.

17. The member comprising the member described in claim 12, An automobile characterized by the following features.

18. The automobile according to claim 17, characterized in that the angle between the first direction of the member and the longitudinal direction of the vehicle is 30° or less.

Images