Horizontal support device for tilting / tilting

Abstract

To provide a gate horizontally holding device that has high versatility and can be efficiently reduced in weight.SOLUTION: A gate horizontally holding device 10 for horizontally holding a gate 5 by its being stretched between a gate 5 of a load-carrying platform 3 and a vehicle body component 8, includes: a plurality of fiber slings 20 (a vehicle-body-side sling 21 and a gate-side sling 25) formed of a fiber belt and connected in order in a device length direction; an intermediate connecting structure 30 that mutually connects the vehicle-body-side sling 21 and the gate-side sling 25, which are adjacent to each other in the device length direction. The intermediate connection structure 30 includes a first ring member 31 and a second ring member 32 heavier than the fiber belt per unit length in the device length direction, and the vehicle-body-side sling 21 and the gate-side sling 25 are mutually connected via the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for horizontally holding a side gate.

Background Art

[0002] Loading beds (flat bodies) of trucks, trailers and the like are provided with side gates that surround the outer periphery of the loading bed floor surface. The side gate is rotatably supported on a floor frame at the outer periphery of the loading bed via a hinge. The side gate can rotate 180° from an upward standing state to a downward hanging state. By placing the side gate in the downward state, the periphery of the loading bed floor surface is opened, which facilitates loading and unloading of cargo onto and from the loading bed. By the way, when cargo is loaded close to the side gate, only a small amount of foothold for workers on the loading bed remains in the floor frame portion, which makes it difficult to perform operations such as lashing the cargo and placing a covering sheet. Therefore, in order to use the side gate as a temporary foothold, a method of holding the side gate in a horizontal state has been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus for horizontally holding a side gate, in which a chain is stretched between the side gate that is in a horizontal state and protrudes to the side of the loading bed and a vehicle body component such as a screen (torii) at the front end of the loading bed, and the side gate is held in a horizontal state by the tension of the chain.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Literature 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above-mentioned conventional technology, the holding angle of the side gate is made adjustable by using an existing side gate lock fitting provided on the vehicle body component to fix the plate member at one end of the chain to the vehicle body component, and winding the other end of the chain around the side gate using an opening formed in the side gate. However, the conventional technology described above, while utilizing existing tailgate locking hardware, requires modification to create an opening in the tailgate, posing a challenge in terms of versatility. Furthermore, since the chain is wrapped around the tailgate, it needs to be made longer, resulting in an increased weight.

[0005] This invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a horizontal tilting device that is highly versatile and can be efficiently made lighter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] As a means of solving the above problems, a first aspect of the present invention provides a horizontal support device for a cargo bed, which is stretched between the cargo bed's side panel and a vehicle body component to hold the side panel in a horizontal position, comprising: a plurality of fiber slings formed of a fiber belt and connected sequentially in the direction of the device's length; and a connecting structure that connects a first sling and a second sling adjacent to each other in the direction of the device's length, wherein the connecting structure comprises a ring member that is heavier per unit length in the direction of the device's length than the fiber belt, and the first sling and the second sling are connected to each other via the ring member.

[0007] With this configuration, the horizontal support device for the tailgate, which is stretched between the vehicle body and the tailgate, is made up of multiple fiber slings. By simply attaching the ends of the fiber slings directly or indirectly to hooks such as tailgate lock fittings, it can be stretched between the vehicle body and the tailgate. Therefore, no modifications to the vehicle are required, increasing versatility. Furthermore, compared to cases where the entire horizontal support device for the tailgate is made of metal chains, wires, etc., it is lighter, reduces damage to the surrounding area, and provides a horizontal support device for the tailgate that is easy to work with and handle.

[0008] On the other hand, by providing a metal ring member in the connecting structure between multiple fiber slings, the ring member acts as a weight, suppressing flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device due to strong winds, etc., and allowing the tailgate to be held stably in a horizontal position. Furthermore, by using a ring member connecting multiple fiber slings as a weight, the length of at least one of the multiple fiber slings can be reduced compared to simply installing a weight, and flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device can be suppressed more efficiently. In addition, by connecting multiple fiber slings via a metal ring member, friction in the connecting structure is reduced compared to directly connecting the fiber slings to each other, making relative oscillation of the multiple fiber slings easier. As a result, flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device can be suppressed more efficiently, and folding can be made easier.

[0009] A second aspect of the present invention is that, in the first aspect, the connecting structure comprises a plurality of ring members, the plurality of ring members being connected in a chain-like manner along the length of the device.

[0010] This configuration allows multiple ring members to be connected in a chain-like manner and swing freely, making it easier for multiple fiber slings to swing relative to each other and effectively suppressing the flapping of the horizontal tilting support device. Furthermore, since the middle section (not limited to the center) of the horizontal tilting support device in the direction of its length is freely swingable, flapping caused by strong winds, etc., is less likely to be transmitted in the direction of its length, and the end of the horizontal tilting support device can be prevented from coming off. In addition, the connecting structure formed by multiple ring members acts as a sufficient weight, effectively suppressing the flapping of the horizontal tilting support device.

[0011] A third aspect of the present invention is that, in the second aspect, the connecting structure is composed of a pair of ring members.

[0012] This configuration allows for sufficient weight as a counterweight and enables the connecting structure to swing freely, compared to a single ring member. Furthermore, it minimizes the increase in the number of parts and weight compared to a configuration with three or more ring members.

[0013] A fourth aspect of the present invention is, in the third aspect, the plurality of fiber slings is composed of a pair of the first sling and the second sling.

[0014] This configuration, by providing a pair of fiber slings as multiple fiber slings, suppresses the increase in the number of parts, and allows the connecting structure to be positioned near the center in the length direction of the horizontal support device, thereby effectively suppressing the flapping of the horizontal support device. Furthermore, by connecting the first and second slings with a double ring, the first and second slings are positioned perpendicular to each other in the thickness direction of the main body (belt section). As a result, when the entire horizontal tailgate support device is subjected to wind from one direction, the first and second slings do not simultaneously receive wind across the entire belt width, thereby suppressing the flapping of the entire horizontal tailgate support device.

[0015] A fifth aspect of the present invention is, in the fourth aspect, the annular portions at both ends of the first sling and the second sling in the length direction of the device are open in the same direction to each other.

[0016] With this configuration, the annular portions at both ends in the length direction of the device of each fiber sling open in the same direction, and this, combined with the fact that the connecting structure is made up of two rings, can suppress twisting of the first sling and the second sling.

[0017] In other words, one end of the horizontal support device in the length direction of the device (the end on the vehicle body side) is generally hooked onto a vehicle body-side hook that bends upward. For this reason, the opening of one end of the first sling in the length direction of the device (the annular part) faces vertically. At this time, if the first sling is not twisted, the opening of the other end of the first sling in the length direction of the device (the annular part) also faces vertically. When one end of the second sling is connected to the other end of the first sling in the length direction of the equipment via a double ring, the opening of the one end (annular portion) of the second sling in the length direction of the equipment faces forward and backward (horizontal). At this time, if the second sling is not twisted, the opening of the other end (annular portion) of the second sling in the length direction of the equipment also faces forward and backward (horizontal).

[0018] The tailgate hook generally protrudes from the end of the tailgate in the direction of rotation (horizontal direction), allowing the other end of the second sling to be directly attached to this tailgate hook without twisting. In this case, both ends of the horizontal tailgate support device in the direction of its length can be secured to the vehicle body and the tailgate, respectively, without causing twisting in each fiber sling. This reduces the stress (load) caused by twisting of each fiber sling, allowing the tailgate to be suspended in a horizontal position.

[0019] A sixth aspect of the present invention is that, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, at least one of the ends of the device in the longitudinal direction is provided with an end ring member which is heavier per unit length in the longitudinal direction of the device than the fiber belt, and the end ring member is hung on a vehicle body side hook provided on the vehicle body part or a tailgate side hook provided on the tailgate.

[0020] With this configuration, the heavy end ring member provided at the end of the horizontal support device for the tailgate is hooked onto the corresponding hooks on the vehicle body and the tailgate, thereby using the end ring member as a weight and preventing the horizontal support device from coming off. In particular, by providing an end ring member at the upper end (the end on the vehicle body side) of the horizontal support device for the tailgate, and attaching this end ring member to a vehicle body-side hook that bends upward, the end ring member can be used as a weight, thereby preventing the upper end of the horizontal support device for the tailgate from coming off the vehicle body-side hook. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a horizontal tilting device that is highly versatile and can be efficiently lightweighted. [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state where a side gate horizontal holding device is attached to the rear portion of the cargo bed of the above vehicle. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state where the side gate is removed from the rear portion of the cargo bed of the above vehicle in the horizontal direction. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the intermediate connection structure of the above side gate horizontal holding device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the vehicle-body-side locking structure of the above side gate horizontal holding device, wherein (a) shows a structure locked via a single ring member, and (b) shows a structure locked directly without a ring member. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the side-gate-side locking structure of the above side gate horizontal holding device, wherein (a) shows a structure locked via a single ring member, and (b) shows a structure locked via a pair of ring members. [MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION]

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, orientations such as front, rear, left, and right in the following description are the same as the orientations in the vehicle (truck) described below. The term "intermediate" as used in the present embodiment means not only the center between both ends of a target but also the inner range between both ends of the target.

[0024] <Vehicle> The vehicle 1 shown in Figure 1 is a truck (cargo vehicle) and has a cargo bed (flatbed) 3 behind the cab 2 where the driver and other passengers sit. Tailgates 5 are provided on the left, right, left, right, and rear sides of the horizontal floor surface 4 of the cargo bed 3. The tailgates 5 consist of a pair of left and right side tailgates 5a provided along the left and right side edges of the cargo bed 3, and a rear tailgate 5b provided along the rear edge of the cargo bed 3. A vertically standing front end partition (torii) 6 is provided at the front end of the cargo bed 3. For example, vertically standing rear end supports 7 are detachably provided on both the left and right sides of the rear end of the cargo bed 3.

[0025] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the side panels 5a are rotatably supported at their lower ends by hinges on the left and right sides of the floor frame. The side panels 5a rotate around a hinge axis C1 that runs along the front-rear direction, and can rotate 180° from an upward position (closed position, shown by a solid line in Figure 3) where they are standing perpendicular to the floor surface 4 of the cargo bed 3, to a downward position (open position, not shown). The rear tailgate 5b is rotatably supported at its lower end by a hinge at the rear of the floor frame. The rear tailgate 5b rotates around a hinge axis C2 that runs along the left-right direction, and can rotate 180° from an upward position (closed position, shown) where it is standing perpendicular to the floor surface 4 of the cargo bed 3 to a downward position (open position, not shown).

[0026] Referring to Figure 2, the side tailgate 5a can be suspended using the tailgate horizontal holding device 10 of the embodiment when it is rotated 90° from an upward position to a horizontal position. The side tailgate 5a can be suspended by the tailgate horizontal holding device 10 in the horizontal position and held in a state in which downward rotation is restricted. In this embodiment, an example in which the tailgate horizontal holding device 10 is used on the side tailgate 5a will be described. The configuration of the tailgate horizontal holding device 10 of the embodiment can also be applied to a tailgate horizontal holding device that holds the rear tailgate 5b in a horizontal position, but a detailed explanation of that will be omitted.

[0027] The tailgate horizontal support device 10 of this embodiment is placed between the side tailgate 5a and the vehicle body component 8 (such as the front end partition 6) to hold the side tailgate 5a in a horizontal position. For example, the side tailgate 5a is held in a horizontal position using a pair of front and rear tailgate horizontal support devices 10. The front horizontal support device 10 is placed diagonally between the front end of the horizontal side panel 5a and the left and right sides of the front end partition 6 when viewed from the front-to-rear direction. The rear horizontal support device 10 is placed diagonally between the rear end of the horizontal side panel 5a and the rear end support 7 when viewed from the front-to-rear direction. The horizontal support devices 10 at the front and rear restrict the rotation of the side panels 5a when they are open horizontally, allowing the side panels 5a to be used as a platform for workers. This makes it easier to secure and cover cargo on the loading platform 3.

[0028] Although the rear end support 7 is shown as an example of a vehicle body part 8 to which the rear side panel horizontal holding device 10 is attached, the left and right ends of the rear panel 5b, whose rotation is locked, may be used as vehicle body parts 8 instead of the rear end support 7. Also, when holding the rear panel 5b in a horizontal position, the rear end of the side panel 5a, whose rotation is locked, may be used as vehicle body parts 8 instead of the rear end support 7.

[0029] The vehicle body part 8 is equipped with a tailgate lock fitting 11 for fixing (rotation locking) the rotation of the side tailgate 5a. The tailgate lock fitting 11 comprises an L-shaped vehicle body side hook 12 fixed to the vehicle body part 8, an operating lever 13 extending vertically below the vehicle body side hook 12, and a locking part 14 connected to the upper and lower intermediate part of the operating lever 13.

[0030] The vehicle body hook 12 protrudes outward to the left and right from the vehicle body part 8, then bends upward and extends. The operating lever 13 is rotatably supported on the vehicle body part 8 at its upper end via a pivot shaft C3 that runs along the front-rear direction. The locking portion 14 is rotatably supported at its base end via a connecting shaft C4 parallel to the pivot shaft C3 in the upper and lower middle part of the operating lever 13. The locking portion 14 has a loop shape at its tip that can be hooked onto the vehicle body hook 12.

[0031] Referring to Figure 3, the locking portion 14 is locked to the vehicle body hook 12 by hooking its tip end onto the vehicle body hook 12 from above. A spring structure is configured between the locking portion 14 and the lever portion. When the locking portion 14 is locked to the vehicle body hook 12, rotating the operating lever 13 downwards causes the locking portion 14 to be pulled downward by the biasing force of the spring structure, and the locking portion 14 is held in the locked state. At this time, the tailgate hook 15 of the upward-facing tailgate 5a is sandwiched between the locking portion 14 and the vehicle body hook 12, thereby locking the rotation of the upward-facing tailgate 5a.

[0032] As described above, by rotating the operating lever 13 upward from the state in which the rotation of the side panel 5a is locked, the rotation lock of the side panel 5a is released. In other words, the downward retraction of the locking part 14 is released. Subsequently, by retracting the locking part 14 from the position where it is locked to the vehicle body hook 12, the side panel hook 15 becomes able to retract from the vehicle body hook 12, and the upward-facing side panel 5a becomes able to rotate downward.

[0033] The tailgate hook 15 is made of a plate member parallel to the tailgate 5a, for example, and has a hook shape with a U-shaped notch in a plan view. The tailgate hook 15 is integral with the tailgate 5a and protrudes forward or backward from the front and rear ends of the tailgate 5a. The tailgate hook 15 is positioned so that the vehicle body hook 12 fits into the notch when the tailgate 5a is in an upright position. When the tailgate 5a is in an upright position, the vehicle body hook 12 is positioned in the upward-opening notch of the tailgate hook 15. At this time, the vehicle body hook 12 protrudes outward to the left and right of the tailgate hook 15, and can hook the locking portion 14. The tailgate lock fittings 11 and tailgate hooks 15 in this embodiment can be existing products commonly used in trucks and the like, which facilitates the application of the present invention.

[0034] <Tilt Horizontal Holding Device> As shown in Figure 2, the tailgate horizontal support device 10 of the embodiment is stretched between the vehicle body part 8 and the side tailgate 5a, and holds the side tailgate 5a in a horizontal position. The tailgate horizontal support device 10 is stretched between the locking part of the vehicle body part 8 (vehicle body side hook 12) and the locking part of the horizontal side tailgate 5a (tailgate side hook 15), and extends diagonally when viewed from the front-rear direction. At this time, the tailgate horizontal support device 10 extends with an inclination so that it is located lower towards the outside in the left-right direction. Hereafter, unless otherwise specified, the description will assume that the tailgate horizontal support device 10 is in an extended state (stretched between the vehicle body part 8 and the side tailgate 5a). The length direction of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 in an extended state is called the "device length direction". Also, the vertical direction perpendicular to the device length direction when viewed from the front-rear direction is called the "vertical direction during installation" (see arrow F1 in the figure).

[0035] Here, the "horizontal state" in this embodiment is not limited to a horizontal state perpendicular to the direction of gravity (vertical direction), but is sufficient if it is parallel to the floor surface 4 of the cargo bed 3. Therefore, if the vehicle 1 is tilted due to the slope of the ground, etc., it is considered a "horizontal state" even if the tailgate 5 is not perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

[0036] The horizontal support device 10 comprises a pair of fiber slings 20, an intermediate connecting structure 30, and a pair of end locking structures 40. The horizontal tailgate support device 10 comprises a pair of fiber slings 20: a vehicle-side sling 21 located on the vehicle body side in the length direction of the device when installed on the vehicle 1, and a tailgate-side sling 25 located on the tailgate 5 side in the length direction of the device when installed on the vehicle 1. The horizontal tailgate support device 10 is divided into the vehicle-side sling 21 and the tailgate-side sling 25 in the length direction of the device. In this embodiment, the vehicle-side sling 21 and the tailgate-side sling 25 have the same configuration, except for the second eye portions 24 and 28 described later, which facilitates the manufacture of the parts. The vehicle-side sling 21 and the tailgate-side sling 25 are not limited to having the same configuration; they may have different configurations as needed, such as having different lengths.

[0037] The tailgate horizontal support device 10 of this embodiment is made of a fiber sling 20, which is lighter and less likely to damage the mating part compared to metal chains or wires. Therefore, the tailgate horizontal support device 10 is easy to work with when suspending the tailgate 5 and is also easy to handle. Hereinafter, the side where the vehicle body side sling 21 is located in the length direction of the device will be referred to as the first side, and the side where the tailgate side sling 25 is located will be referred to as the other side.

[0038] <Vehicle-side sling> The vehicle-side sling 21 extends along the length direction of the equipment. The vehicle-side sling 21 is made of a fiber belt, for example, made of nylon or polyester. The vehicle-side sling 21 comprises a belt-shaped main body portion 22 that extends along the length direction of the equipment, and loop-shaped eye portions 23 and 24 provided at both ends of the main body portion 22 in the length direction of the equipment. Of the eye portions 23 and 24 at both ends of the vehicle-side sling 21, the one located on the vehicle-side in the length direction of the equipment is called the first eye portion 23, and the one located on the tailgate 5 side in the length direction of the equipment is called the second eye portion 24.

[0039] Each of the first eye portion 23 and the second eye portion 24 is formed, for example, by simply folding a fiber belt in the direction of the belt length, which facilitates the manufacture of the vehicle body side sling 21. At least one of the first eye portion 23 and the second eye portion 24 may be formed with double thickness by folding the fiber belt in the direction of the belt length and also in the direction of the belt width, and a protective cloth may also be attached (see the second eye portion 28 on the tailgate 5 side of the tailgate side sling 25).

[0040] The eye portions 23 and 24 at both ends of the vehicle-side sling 21 are oriented so that there is no twisting in the main body portion 22, and their opening direction is oriented in the direction of the belt width (corresponding to the direction of arrow F1 in Figure 2). Whether or not to fold the fiber belt in the belt width direction at the eyelet may be determined according to the shape of the object to which it is connected or attached. For example, when connecting the eyelet to ring members 31, 32, etc., described later, if the inner diameter of the ring member is large enough to exceed 1.5 times the belt width, the fiber belt is only folded in the belt length direction, and the eyelet is not narrowed in the belt width direction. If the inner diameter of the ring member is small, the fiber belt is folded in the belt width direction, and the eyelet is narrowed in the belt width direction.

[0041] The vehicle-side sling 21 has a vehicle-side locking portion at one end (vehicle-side) in the length direction of the device, which is attached to the vehicle-side hook 12. The vehicle-side locking portion is composed of a vehicle-side locking structure 41, which will be described later. In other words, the vehicle-side locking portion is indirectly provided at one end of the vehicle-side sling 21 in the length direction of the device. In addition, there is also a configuration in which the vehicle body-side locking portion is directly provided at one end of the vehicle body-side sling 21 in the length direction of the device (for example, a configuration in which the first eye portion 23 is directly hooked onto the vehicle body-side hook 12, see Figure 5(b)).

[0042] <Sling on the side of the tail> The tailgate sling 25 extends along the length of the equipment. The tailgate sling 25 is made of a fiber belt, for example, made of nylon or polyester. The tailgate sling 25 comprises a belt-shaped main body 26 that extends along the length of the equipment, and loop-shaped eye portions 27 and 28 provided at both ends of the main body 26 in the length of the equipment. Of the eye portions 27 and 28 at both ends of the tailgate sling 25, the one located on the vehicle body side in the length of the equipment is called the first eye portion 27, and the one located on the tailgate 5 side in the length of the equipment is called the second eye portion 28.

[0043] The first eye portion 27 is formed, for example, by simply folding the fiber belt in the direction of the belt length. The second eye portion 28 is formed with double thickness by folding the fiber belt in the direction of the belt length and also in the direction of the belt width, and a protective cloth is attached to it. The eye portions 27 and 28 at both ends of the tailgate sling 25 are oriented so that there is no twisting in the main body 26, and their opening direction is oriented in the direction of the belt width (corresponding to the direction of arrow F2 in Figure 2).

[0044] The tailgate sling 25 is provided with a tailgate locking portion at the other end (tailgate 5 side) in the length direction of the equipment, which is attached to the tailgate hook 15. The tailgate locking portion is composed of a second eye portion 28. In other words, the tailgate locking portion is directly provided at the other end of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment. Furthermore, it is also possible to have a configuration in which the tailgate locking portion is indirectly provided at the other end of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the device (for example, a configuration in which it is hooked onto the tailgate hook 15 via a ring member, see Figures 6(a) and 6(b)). In this case, the second eye portion 28 may be formed in the same way as the first eye portion 27, simply by folding the fiber belt in the length direction of the belt.

[0045] <Intermediate connection structure> The intermediate connecting structure 30 is located in the middle (for example, the center) of the horizontal support device 10 in the length direction of the device. The intermediate connecting structure 30 is provided between the vehicle body side sling 21 and the side sling 25. The intermediate connecting structure 30 connects the vehicle body side sling 21 and the side sling 25 to each other.

[0046] The intermediate connecting structure 30 comprises a pair of ring members 31 and 32. The intermediate connecting structure 30 comprises a first ring member 31 located on the vehicle body side in the length direction of the device, and a second ring member 32 located on the tailgate 5 side in the length direction of the device. Each of the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 is a metal member with a higher density than the fiber belt that constitutes the fiber sling 20. Each of the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 is a member whose weight per unit length in the length direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber sling 20.

[0047] The first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 have the same configuration, allowing for the sharing of parts. The first ring member 31 is connected to the other end of the vehicle body side sling 21 in the length direction of the device. The second ring member 32 is connected to the one end of the tailgate side sling 25 in the length direction of the device. The first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 are connected to each other in a chain-like manner. The axial direction of the first ring member 31 (opening direction, corresponding to arrow F1 in Figure 2) and the axial direction of the second ring member 32 (opening direction, corresponding to arrow F2 in Figure 2) are perpendicular to each other. The first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 constitute a chain extending in the length direction of the device. The first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 swing freely between the vehicle body side sling 21 and the tailgate side sling 25.

[0048] Each of the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 is formed from a rust-resistant and inexpensive metal material such as SUS430. Each of the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 may be formed from other materials as long as the density (weight) and strength requirements are met. Each of the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 has a smooth surface to suppress friction with the fiber sling 20 and friction between the ring members themselves. Each of the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 has, for example, a circular ring shape, which makes it easier to ensure strength and suppresses entanglement compared to an elliptical shape, etc.

[0049] <End locking structure> The pair of end locking structures 40 includes a vehicle-side locking structure 41 provided at one end of the horizontal support device 10 in the length direction of the device and hooked onto a locking portion (vehicle-side hook 12) of the vehicle body part 8, and a tailgate-side locking structure 45 provided at the other end of the horizontal support device 10 in the length direction of the device and hooked onto a locking portion (tailgate-side hook 15) of the side tailgate 5a.

[0050] <Vehicle-side locking structure> The vehicle-side locking structure 41 of the embodiment includes a pair of end ring members 42 and 43. The vehicle-side locking structure 41 includes a first end ring member 42 located on the vehicle-side in the length direction of the device, and a second end ring member 43 located on the sling side in the length direction of the device. Each of the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 is a metal member with a density greater than the fiber belt that constitutes the fiber sling 20. Each of the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 is a member whose weight per unit length in the length direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber sling 20.

[0051] The first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 have the same configuration, allowing for the sharing of parts. Furthermore, the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 have the same configuration as the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 of the intermediate connecting structure 30, allowing for the sharing of parts. The first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 are connected to each other in a chain-like manner. The axial direction of the first end ring member 42 (opening direction, corresponding to arrow F1 in Figure 2) and the axial direction of the second end ring member 43 (opening direction, corresponding to arrow F2 in Figure 2) are perpendicular to each other. The first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 constitute a chain extending in the length direction of the device. The first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 pivotably lock the upper end of the vehicle body side sling 21 and, consequently, the horizontal support device 10 to the vehicle body side hook 12.

[0052] Each of the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 is formed from a rust-resistant and inexpensive metal material such as SUS430. Each of the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 may be formed from other materials as long as the density (weight) and strength requirements are met. Each of the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 has a smooth surface to suppress friction with the fiber sling 20 and friction between the ring members themselves. Each of the first end ring member 42 and the second end ring member 43 has, for example, a circular ring shape, which makes it easier to ensure strength and suppresses entanglement compared to an elliptical shape, etc.

[0053] If the side panel horizontal support device 10 is constructed from a lightweight fiber belt, it will be more susceptible to wind than if it were constructed from a chain or wire. For example, when there is no worker on the horizontal side panel 5a and the side panel 5a is exposed to wind, the following will occur: The side panel 5a will be lifted by the wind, reducing the tension of the side panel horizontal support device 10, and the belt-like side panel horizontal support device 10 itself will also be exposed to the wind. As a result, the side panel horizontal support device 10 is prone to flapping, and there is a risk that its upper end, in particular, may come off the vehicle body hook 12.

[0054] In this embodiment, the horizontal support device 10 for the tailgate has an intermediate connecting structure 30 that acts as a weight to suppress the flapping of the horizontal support device 10 itself. In addition, since the double rings of the intermediate connecting structure 30 can swing relative to each other, the flapping of the lower part (tailgate side sling 25) of the horizontal support device 10 is less likely to be transmitted to the upper part (vehicle body side sling 21).

[0055] In this embodiment, the horizontal tailgate support device 10 maintains its locking state to the upward-facing vehicle-side hook 12 because its own weight acts on its upper end (vehicle-side locking structure 41). Furthermore, since the double rings of the vehicle-side locking structure 41 can swing relative to each other, the flapping of the fiber sling 20 is less likely to be transmitted to the first end ring member 42 on the vehicle-side. In other words, by attaching the heavy end ring members 42 and 43 to the vehicle-side hook 12, the upper end (vehicle-side end) of the horizontal tailgate support device 10 is prevented from coming off the vehicle-side hook 12.

[0056] Based on the above configuration, the horizontal support device 10 of the embodiment is designed so that its upper end is less likely to detach from the vehicle body hook 12. The metal end ring members 42 and 43 reduce friction at the end (locking structure) of the horizontal support device 10, thereby increasing durability and making it easier to attach to the opposing hook.

[0057] <Locking structure on the tailgate side> The tailgate locking structure 45 of this embodiment is formed at the other end (second eye portion 28) of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the device. Specifically, the second eye portion 28, which serves as the tailgate locking structure 45, is formed by folding a fiber belt in the length direction of the belt and also in the width direction of the belt to create a double thickness, and then attaching a protective cloth.

[0058] One end of the horizontal support device 10 in the length direction of the device (the first end ring member 42 of the vehicle body side locking structure 41) is hooked from above onto the vehicle body side hook 12 which faces upward. At this time, the opening direction of the first end ring member 42 is oriented in the vertical direction during installation (direction of arrow F1, hereinafter referred to as the vertical direction during installation F1), and the opening direction of the second end ring member 43 is oriented in the front-rear direction (direction of arrow F2, hereinafter referred to as the front-rear direction F2).

[0059] In this case, if there is no twisting in the vehicle-side sling 21, the first eye portion 23 and the second eye portion 24 at both ends of the vehicle-side sling 21 in the length direction of the equipment will both have their openings facing the vertical direction F1 during installation. Also, the main body portion 22 (belt portion) will have its thickness direction facing the front-rear direction F2.

[0060] Furthermore, in the intermediate connecting structure 30, the first ring member 31 faces the front-rear direction F2, and the second ring member 32 faces the up-down direction F1 during installation. Furthermore, if there is no twisting in the tailgate sling 25, the first eye portion 27 and the second eye portion 28 at both ends of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment will both have their openings facing the front-rear direction F2. Also, the main body portion 26 (belt portion) will have its thickness direction facing the up-down direction F1 when erected.

[0061] In this way, by securing the upper end of the horizontal support device 10 to the vehicle body hook 12 from above, and by installing the horizontal support device 10 so that twisting does not occur in the main body portion 22 of the vehicle body sling 21 and the main body portion 26 of the side sling 25, the lower end of the horizontal support device 10 can be naturally secured to the side hook 15 from the horizontal direction. This reduces the stress (load) caused by twisting in the main body portion 22 of the vehicle body sling 21 and the side sling 25, and allows the side sling 5a to be suspended in a horizontal position.

[0062] <Variation> The following describes a modified version of the tilt horizontal support device 10. Figure 4 shows a modified example of the intermediate connecting structure 30. This modified intermediate connecting structure 30 includes a single ring member 34. The ring member 34, like the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32, is made of a metal material (e.g., SUS430) with a higher density than the fiber belt that makes up the fiber sling 20, and is a member whose weight per unit length in the length direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber sling 20.

[0063] The ring member 34 is connected to both the other end of the vehicle body side sling 21 in the length direction of the device and the one end of the tailgate side sling 25 in the length direction of the device. In this case, the second eye portion 24 at the other end of the vehicle body side sling 21 in the length direction of the device and the first eye portion 27 at the one end of the tailgate side sling 25 in the length direction of the device have their respective opening directions facing the same direction. Furthermore, the ring member 34 is positioned so that its opening direction is perpendicular to the opening directions of the second eye portion 24 of the vehicle body side sling 21 and the first eye portion 27 of the tailgate side sling 25.

[0064] In this modified configuration, the number of parts can be reduced compared to the case where the intermediate connecting structure 30 has multiple (including three or more) ring members. On the other hand, because the thickness directions of the vehicle body side sling 21 and the tailgate side sling 25 are in the same direction, the entire tailgate horizontal support device 10 becomes more susceptible to wind from one direction. Furthermore, the weight of the intermediate connecting structure 30 is reduced, and the degree of freedom of swing is also reduced compared to the case where the intermediate connecting structure 30 constitutes a chain, thus reducing the effect of suppressing the flapping of the tailgate horizontal support device 10. For this reason, it is preferable that the number of ring members be the minimum even number, i.e., two.

[0065] Figure 5 shows a modified example of the vehicle body-side locking structure 41. In the modified example of Figure 5(a), the vehicle body-side locking structure 41 is equipped with a single end ring member 35. The end ring member 35, like the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32, is made of a metal material (e.g., SUS430) with a higher density than the fiber belt that constitutes the fiber sling 20, and is a member whose weight per unit length in the length direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber sling 20. The end ring member 35 is connected to one end of the vehicle-side sling 21 in the length direction of the equipment. In this case, the first eye portion 23 at one end of the vehicle-side sling 21 in the length direction of the equipment has its opening direction oriented in the front-rear direction F2. The end ring member 35 has its opening direction oriented in the up-down direction F1 when erected.

[0066] In the modified example shown in Figure 5(b), the vehicle body-side locking structure 41 is formed by the first eye portion 23 at one end of the vehicle body-side sling 21 in the length direction of the device. Similar to the second eye portion 28 on the other side of the tailgate-side sling 25 in the length direction of the device, this first eye portion 23 is formed by folding a fiber belt in the length direction of the belt and also in the width direction of the belt to create a double thickness, and then attaching a protective cloth. In this case, the first eye portion 23 at one end of the vehicle-side sling 21 in the length direction of the device is oriented so that its opening direction is in the vertical direction F1 when erected.

[0067] In these modifications, the number of parts can be reduced compared to the case where the vehicle body-side locking structure 41 has multiple (including three or more) end ring members. On the other hand, the weight of the vehicle body-side locking structure 41 is reduced, and the degree of freedom of swing is also reduced compared to the case where the vehicle body-side locking structure 41 constitutes a chain, so the effect of suppressing detachment from the vehicle body-side hook 12 is reduced. For this reason, it is preferable that the number of end ring members be the minimum number of multiple, i.e., two.

[0068] Figure 6 shows a modified example of the tailgate locking structure 45. The modified example in Figure 6(a) includes a single end ring member 36. The end ring member 36, like the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32, is made of a metal material (e.g., SUS430) with a higher density than the fiber belt that makes up the fiber sling 20, and is a member whose weight per unit length in the length direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber sling 20. The end ring member 36 is connected to the other end of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment. In this case, the second eye portion 28 of the other end of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment is oriented with its opening direction to the vertical direction F1 during installation. The end ring member 36 is oriented with its opening direction to the front-rear direction F2.

[0069] The modified example in Figure 6(b) is equipped with a pair of end ring members 37 and 38, similar to the intermediate connecting structure 30. The tailgate locking structure 45 is equipped with a pair of end ring members 37 and 38, a first end ring member 37 located on the sling side in the length direction of the device, and a second end ring member 38 located on the tailgate 5 side in the length direction of the device. Each of the first end ring member 37 and the second end ring member 38 is made of a metal material (e.g., SUS430) with a higher density than the fiber belt that constitutes the fiber sling 20, and is a member whose weight per unit length in the length direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber sling 20. In this case, the second eye portion 28 at the other end of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment is oriented with its opening in the front-rear direction F2. Also, the first end ring member 37 is oriented with its opening in the up-down direction F1 during installation, and the second end ring member 38 is oriented with its opening in the front-rear direction F2.

[0070] In a configuration where the tailgate hook 15 protrudes horizontally (front-to-back direction F2) from the tailgate 5, the lower end (second eye portion 28) of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 is less likely to detach from the tailgate hook 15 even if the horizontal tailgate 5 is lifted upward. However, depending on the configuration of the tailgate hook 15, by attaching heavy end ring members 36, 37, and 38 to the tailgate hook 15, as shown in the modified example in Figure 6, the effect of making it less likely for the lower end of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 to detach from the tailgate hook 15 can be obtained. The metal end ring members 36, 37, and 38 reduce friction at the end (locking structure) of the tailgate horizontal support device 10, increasing durability and making it easier to attach to the mating hook. If the end ring members are not necessary, the number of parts can be reduced by directly attaching the lower end (second eye portion 28) of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 to the tailgate hook 15, as shown in Figure 2.

[0071] As described above, the horizontal support device 10 in the above embodiment is stretched between the side panel 5 of the cargo bed 3 and the vehicle body parts 8 to hold the side panel 5 in a horizontal position, and comprises a plurality of fiber slings 20 (vehicle body side slings 21 and side panel side slings 25) formed of a fiber belt and connected in order in the length direction of the device, and an intermediate connecting structure 30 that connects adjacent vehicle body side slings 21 and side panel side slings 25 in the length direction of the device to each other, wherein the intermediate connecting structure 30 comprises a first ring member 31 and a second ring member 32 which are heavier per unit length in the length direction of the device than the fiber belt, and the vehicle body side slings 21 and side panel side slings 25 are connected to each other via the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32.

[0072] With this configuration, the horizontal support device 10 that spans between the vehicle body part 8 and the tailgate 5 is made up of multiple fiber slings 20, so that the horizontal support device 10 can be spanned between the vehicle body part 8 and the tailgate 5 simply by directly or indirectly attaching the ends of the fiber slings 20 to hooks such as the tailgate lock fitting 11. Therefore, it is possible to increase versatility by eliminating the need for processing on the vehicle side. Furthermore, compared to cases where the entire horizontal support device 10 is made up of metal chains or wires, it is possible to reduce the weight of the horizontal support device 10, reduce damage to the surrounding area, and provide a horizontal support device 10 that is easy to work with and handle.

[0073] On the other hand, by providing a heavy first ring member 31 and a second ring member 32 in the intermediate connecting structure 30 that connects multiple fiber slings 20, the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 act as weights, suppressing flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device 10 due to strong winds, etc., and allowing the tailgate 5 to be held stably in a horizontal position. Furthermore, by using the first ring member 31 and the second ring member 32 that connect multiple fiber slings 20 as weights, it is possible to efficiently suppress flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device 10 while keeping the length of at least one of the multiple fiber slings 20 shorter, compared to the case where separate weights are installed. In addition, by connecting multiple fiber slings 20 via, for example, a metal first ring member 31 and a second ring member 32, friction in the intermediate connecting structure 30 is reduced compared to the case where the fiber slings 20 are directly connected to each other, making it easier for the multiple fiber slings 20 to swing relative to each other, efficiently suppressing flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device 10, and making it easier to fold.

[0074] In the above-described horizontal tilting support device 10, the intermediate connecting structure 30 comprises a plurality of ring members (first ring member 31 and second ring member 32), and the plurality of ring members 31 and 32 are connected in a chain-like manner in the direction of the length of the device.

[0075] With this configuration, the multiple ring members 31 and 32 are connected to each other in a chain-like manner and can swing freely, making it easier for the multiple fiber slings 20 to swing relative to each other, and effectively suppressing the flapping of the tilting horizontal holding device 10. Furthermore, since the intermediate portion (not limited to the center) of the horizontal tilting support device 10 in the direction of the device's length is able to swing freely, the flapping of the horizontal tilting support device 10 due to strong winds, etc., is less likely to be transmitted in the direction of the device's length, and the end of the horizontal tilting support device 10 can be prevented from coming off. In addition, the intermediate connecting structure 30 acts as a sufficient weight with the multiple ring members 31, 32, so that the flapping of the horizontal tilting support device 10 can be effectively suppressed.

[0076] In the above-described horizontal support device 10, the intermediate connecting structure 30 is composed of a pair of ring members (first ring member 31 and second ring member 32).

[0077] This configuration ensures sufficient weight as a counterweight and allows the intermediate connecting structure 30 to swing freely, compared to the case where the intermediate connecting structure 30 has a single ring member. Furthermore, it minimizes the increase in the number of parts and weight compared to the case where the intermediate connecting structure 30 has three or more ring members.

[0078] In the above-described horizontal support device 10 for the tailgate, the multiple fiber slings 20 are composed of a pair of vehicle-side slings 21 and tailgate-side slings 25.

[0079] With this configuration, by providing a pair of vehicle-side slings 21 and tailgate-side slings 25 as multiple fiber slings 20, the increase in the number of parts is suppressed, and the intermediate connecting structure 30 can be positioned near the center in the length direction of the tailgate horizontal holding device 10, thereby effectively suppressing the flapping of the tailgate horizontal holding device 10. Furthermore, the vehicle body-side sling 21 and the tailgate-side sling 25 are connected by a double ring, so that the vehicle body-side sling 21 and the tailgate-side sling 25 are positioned so that the thickness directions of their respective main body sections 22 and 26 (belt sections) are perpendicular to each other. As a result, when the entire tailgate horizontal support device 10 is subjected to wind from one direction, the vehicle body-side sling 21 and the tailgate-side sling 25 do not simultaneously receive wind across the entire belt width, thereby suppressing flapping of the entire tailgate horizontal support device 10.

[0080] In the above-described horizontal support device 10 for the tailgate, the vehicle body side sling 21 has first eye portions 23 and second eye portions 24 at both ends in the length direction of the device that open in the same direction, and the tailgate side sling 25 has first eye portions 27 and second eye portions 28 that open in the same direction.

[0081] With this configuration, the eye portions at both ends in the length direction of each fiber sling 20 open in the same direction to each other. This, combined with the fact that the intermediate connecting structure 30 is composed of a double ring, helps to suppress twisting of each fiber sling 20.

[0082] In other words, one end of the horizontal support device 10 in the length direction of the device (the end on the vehicle body side) is generally hooked onto the vehicle body side hook 12 which bends upward. For this reason, the opening of one end of the vehicle body side sling 21 in the length direction of the device (the eye portion) is oriented in the vertical direction F1 when erected. At this time, if there is no twisting in the vehicle body side sling 21, the other end of the vehicle body side sling 21 in the length direction of the device (the eye portion) is also oriented in the vertical direction F1 when erected. When one end of the tailgate sling 25 is connected to the other end of the vehicle body sling 21 in the length direction of the equipment via a double ring, the opening of the one end (eye portion) of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment faces the front-rear direction F2 (horizontal direction). At this time, if there is no twisting in the tailgate sling 25, the opening of the other end (eye portion) of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the equipment also faces the front-rear direction F2 (horizontal direction).

[0083] The tailgate hook 15 generally protrudes from the end of the tailgate 5 in the direction of the rotation axis (horizontal direction), and the other end of the tailgate sling 25 in the length direction of the device can be directly attached to this tailgate hook 15 without twisting. As a result, both ends of the horizontal tailgate support device 10 in the length direction of the device can be locked to the vehicle body part 8 and the tailgate 5, respectively, without causing twisting in each fiber sling 20. This reduces the stress (load) caused by twisting in each fiber sling 20, and allows the tailgate 5 to be suspended in a horizontal position.

[0084] In the above-described horizontal tailgate support device 10, at least one of the ends in the length direction of the device (particularly the end on the vehicle body side) is provided with an end ring member (for example, a first ring member 42 and a second ring member 43) that is heavier per unit length in the length direction of the device than the fiber belt, and the end ring members 42 and 43 are hooked onto a vehicle body side hook 12 provided on the vehicle body part 8 or a tailgate side hook 15 provided on the tailgate 5.

[0085] With this configuration, the heavy end ring members 42 and 43 provided at the ends of the horizontal tailgate support device 10 are hooked onto the corresponding vehicle body side hooks 12 and tailgate side hooks 15, thereby utilizing the end ring members 42 and 43 as weights and preventing the horizontal tailgate support device 10 from coming off. In particular, by providing end ring members 42 and 43 at the upper end (vehicle body side end) of the horizontal tailgate support device 10, and hooking the end ring member 42 onto the vehicle body side hook 12 which is bent upward, the end ring members 42 and 43 can be used as weights, thereby preventing the upper end of the horizontal tailgate support device 10 from coming off the vehicle body side hook 12.

[0086] In other words, if the horizontal tailgate 5 is lifted upward by the wind, the tension of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 decreases, and there is a risk that the upper end of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 will detach from the vehicle body hook 12. To counteract this, attaching heavy end ring members 42 and 43 to the vehicle body hook 12 can prevent the upper end of the tailgate horizontal support device 10 from detaching from the vehicle body hook 12. The lower end of the horizontal tailgate support device 10 (the end on the tailgate 5 side) is attached to the tailgate hook 15 that protrudes horizontally from the tailgate 5, making it difficult for the horizontal tailgate 5 to detach from the hook 15 even if it is lifted upward. For this reason, for example, an end ring member is not provided at the lower end of the horizontal tailgate support device 10, thereby reducing the number of parts.

[0087] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, the horizontal support device for the tailgate is not limited to being composed of a pair of fiber slings, but may be composed of three or more fiber slings. The ring members provided in the connecting structure, etc., are not limited to being made of metal as long as the weight requirements are met. Furthermore, the configuration in the above embodiment is just one example of the present invention, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention, such as replacing the components of the embodiment with well-known components. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0088] 1 vehicle 3. Cargo bed 5 Aori 8. Body parts 10. Horizontal support device for tilting sideways 12. Body-side hooks 15 Aori-side hook 20 Fiber Slings 31 First ring member (ring member) 32 Second ring member (ring member) 42 First end ring member (end ring member) 43 Second end ring member (end ring member) 34 Modified ring member 35, 36, 37, 38 End ring members of modified examples

Claims

1. A horizontal support device for a cargo bed that is placed between the tailgate and a vehicle body component and holds the tailgate in a horizontal position, Multiple fiber slings formed from fiber belts and sequentially connected in the length direction of the device, The device comprises a connecting structure that connects a first sling and a second sling that are adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction of the device, among the plurality of fiber slings, The connecting structure comprises a plurality of ring members whose weight per unit length in the longitudinal direction of the device is heavier than that of the fiber belt, the plurality of ring members are connected in a chain-like manner in the longitudinal direction of the device, and the first sling and the second sling are connected to each other via the plurality of ring members, in a tilting horizontal holding device.

2. The horizontal tilting device according to claim 1, wherein the connecting structure is composed of a pair of ring members.

3. The tilting horizontal holding device according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of fiber slings are composed of a pair of the first sling and the second sling.

4. The horizontal tilting device according to claim 3, wherein the annular portions at both ends of the first sling and the second sling in the length direction of the device open in the same direction to each other.

5. At least one of the ends in the longitudinal direction of the device is provided with an end ring member that is heavier per unit length in the longitudinal direction of the device than the fiber belt, The horizontal support device for a tailgate according to claim 1, wherein the end ring member is hooked onto a body-side hook provided on the body part or a tailgate-side hook provided on the tailgate.

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