Reaction force device

Abstract

A reaction force device (30) comprises an actuator (35) and a reaction force transmission mechanism (40). The reaction force transmission mechanism (40) has a rotating member (41) and a buffer member (50). The rotating member (41) has a buffer member holding part (43), and is driven by the actuator (35). The buffer member (50) is mounted to the buffer member holding part (43), and separably abuts against a pedal (13, 23) or an intermediate member (28) that is integrally driven with the pedal (13, 23). The buffer member (50) has a first member (51-56) that abuts against the pedal (13, 23) or the intermediate member (28), and a second member (61-68) that is provided between the first member (51-56) and the buffer member holding part (43). The buffer member (50) is mounted to be able to roll between the pedal (13, 23) or the intermediate member (28) and the rotating member (41). The first member (51-56) has lower hardness than the second member (61-68).

Description

Counterforce device CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is based on Patent Application No. 2024-053102, filed on March 28, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a counterforce device.

[0003] Conventionally, accelerator pedal devices capable of applying a reaction force to a pedal arm have been known. For example, in Patent Document 1, a rotating member is configured so that a driving force from a driving source causes the rotating member to apply a reaction force in a direction that returns the pedal arm to its rest position. The rotating member is configured as a rotating lever and has a contact portion including a roller that releasably contacts the pedal arm.

[0004] Patent No. 5491115

[0005] If the pedal can be separated from the contact member that contacts the pedal, when the pedal is suddenly released from a depressed state, the return speed of the rotating member is slower than that of the pedal, causing the pedal to collide with the rotating member. If the contact member is made of a material with a relatively high hardness, there is a risk of generating a collision noise. Furthermore, if the contact member is made of a material with a relatively low hardness in order to reduce the collision noise, there is a risk of the friction coefficient becoming large and wear increasing. The object of the present disclosure is to provide a reaction force device that can reduce the collision noise when the pedal is suddenly released.

[0006] The reaction force device of the present disclosure is capable of applying a reaction force to an accelerator device having a pedal operated by a driver in response to the driver's depression force, and includes an actuator and a reaction force transmission mechanism. The actuator generates a driving force when energized.

[0007] The reaction force transmission mechanism has a rotating member and a buffer member, and transmits a reaction force to the pedal. The rotating member has a buffer member holder and is driven by an actuator. The buffer member is provided on the buffer member holder and is in separable contact with the pedal or an intermediate member that is driven integrally with the pedal.

[0008] The cushioning member has a first member that contacts the pedal or intermediate member, and a second member that is provided between the first member and the cushioning member holder, and is provided to be able to roll between the pedal or intermediate member and the rotating member. The first member has a lower hardness than the second member. This ensures sliding properties while reducing impact noise when the pedal is suddenly released.

[0009] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 1 is a side view of the accelerator device and reaction force device according to the first embodiment, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the accelerator device and reaction force device according to the first embodiment, FIG. 3 is a plan view of the reaction force device according to the first embodiment, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 3, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line V-V in FIG. 3, FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of the buffer member in the first embodiment, FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the buffer member and buffer member holding portion according to the second embodiment, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the buffer member and buffer member holding portion according to the third embodiment, FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX in FIG. 8, FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the buffer member and buffer member holding portion according to the fourth embodiment, FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the buffer member according to the fifth embodiment, FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the buffer member and buffer member holding portion according to the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing the sliding member according to the sixth embodiment. 17A is a cross-sectional view showing the tip of a buffer member holding portion according to a tenth embodiment; FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view showing the tip of a buffer member holding portion according to a tenth embodiment; FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a buffer member and a buffer member holding portion according to an eleventh embodiment; FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a buffer member and a buffer member holding portion according to a twelfth embodiment; FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a buffer member and a buffer member holding portion according to a thirteenth embodiment; FIG. 21 is a side view of an accelerator device and a reaction force device according to a fourteenth embodiment; and FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an accelerator device and a reaction force device according to the fourteenth embodiment.

[0010] The reaction force device according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following, substantially identical components in multiple embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0011] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment is shown in Figures 1 to 6. A reaction force device 30 is applied to an accelerator device 10. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the accelerator device 10 is a so-called floor-mounted (organ-type) device and includes a pedal housing 11 and a pedal 13. The pedal housing 11 is attached to a floor panel 2 of the vehicle, for example, by mounting bolts (not shown). In Figure 1, the x-axis indicates the direction of travel of the vehicle, the y-axis indicates the vehicle width direction, and the z-axis indicates the vertically upward direction.

[0012] The pedal 13 is rotatably mounted in a pedal housing 11 so as to rotate around a rotation axis Ax1. A pad 14 that is depressed by the driver is provided on the pedal 13. An accelerator opening sensor (not shown) is provided inside the pedal housing 11. The accelerator opening sensor detects the accelerator opening corresponding to the rotation angle of the pedal 13 and transmits the detected value to an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU") (not shown).

[0013] A pedal biasing member (not shown) is provided inside the pedal housing 11. The pedal 13 is biased in the accelerator closing direction by the pedal biasing member. The pedal housing 11 is provided with a stopper that restricts rotation of the pedal 13 in the accelerator opening direction and a stopper that restricts rotation in the accelerator closing direction, and the pedal 13 is rotatable within a range in which it abuts against both stoppers. Figures 1 and 2 show a state in which the pedal 13 abuts against the stopper in the accelerator closing direction, i.e., a state in which the accelerator is fully closed.

[0014] The accelerator device 10 of this embodiment employs an accelerator-by-wire system, and an electronic control unit (not shown) controls the throttle device based on the accelerator opening transmitted from the accelerator device 10, thereby controlling the vehicle's running state.

[0015] 1 to 3, the reaction force device 30 has an actuator 35 and a reaction force transmission mechanism 40. The actuator 35 is, for example, an electric motor, and is housed in an actuator housing 31. The actuator housing 31 is attached to the floor panel 2, for example, by mounting bolts (not shown). The actuator 35 is capable of outputting torque as a driving force when energized.

[0016] The reaction force transmission mechanism 40 has a speed reduction mechanism (not shown), a lever 41, and a buffer member 50. The speed reduction mechanism is housed in the actuator housing 31 and is capable of reducing the torque of the actuator 35 and outputting it from the shaft member 36. The shaft member 36 is provided on the rotation axis Ax2 and is supported by the actuator housing 31 so as to be rotatable about the rotation axis Ax2.

[0017] The lever 41 is formed into a rod shape from, for example, metal, and one end is connected to the shaft member 36. As a result, the lever 41 is provided so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis Ax2 together with the shaft member 36 by the driving force of the actuator 35. The other end of the lever 41 protrudes from the actuator housing 31. A buffer member holding portion 43 is formed on the other end of the lever 41 by being bent in a substantially vertical direction from the lever main body 42. The buffer member holding portion 43 is formed into a substantially cylindrical shape and is inserted radially inward of the buffer member 50.

[0018] The lever 41 is biased in the reaction force application direction by an actuator lever biasing member (not shown). The actuator lever biasing member is, for example, a compression coil spring, and the spring force is set so that the buffer member 50 is always in contact with the pedal 13.

[0019] The buffer member 50 is provided on the other end side of the lever 41. The buffer member 50 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is provided so that its outer circumferential surface can abut against the surface of the pedal 13 on the floor panel 2 side. As a result, the reaction force device 30 can apply a reaction force F2 in response to the driver's pedal force F1 to the pedal 13 via the speed reduction mechanism, the lever 41, and the buffer member 50 by driving the actuator 35. Note that in Figures 1 to 3, the buffer member holding portion 43 and the buffer member 50 are shown in a simplified form. This also applies to Figures 21 and 22 of the embodiment described below.

[0020] The following description will focus on the buffer member holding portion 43 and the buffer member 50. Note that corresponding cross-sectional lines are shown in Figures 4 and 5. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the buffer member holding portion 43 has a small diameter portion 431 formed on the tip side and a large diameter portion 432 provided on the lever body 42 side of the small diameter portion 431. The small diameter portion 431 is inserted radially inward of the buffer member 50. A step surface 433 between the small diameter portion 431 and the large diameter portion 432 is provided so as to be able to abut against one axial end face of the buffer member 50.

[0021] A recess 434 is formed on the tip side of the small diameter portion 431. A retaining member 45 such as a washer that can come into contact with the buffer member 50 is fitted into the recess 434. The retaining member 45 is separate from the lever 41 and is provided so as to be able to come into contact with the end face of the buffer member 50 on the other side in the axial direction.

[0022] The buffer member 50 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape and is provided radially outward of the small diameter portion 431 of the buffer member holding portion 43, between the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45. The inner diameter of the buffer member 50 is larger than the outer diameter of the small diameter portion 431, and the buffer member 50 is provided so as to be rotatable relative to the lever 41 and so as to be movable in the axial direction between the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45. In other words, the axial movement of the buffer member 50 is restricted by the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45, and the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45 function to prevent the buffer member 50 from coming off.

[0023] The buffer member 50 has an abutting member 51 provided on the radially outer side and a sliding member 61 provided on the radially inner side of the abutting member 51. Both the abutting member 51 and the sliding member 61 are substantially cylindrical, and the abutting member 51 and the sliding member 61 are formed so as to be immovable relative to each other by press-fitting, hot press-fitting, insert molding, two-color molding, or bonding. The abutting member 51 is formed of a relatively flexible material such as ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM). The sliding member 61 is formed of a relatively wear-resistant material such as polyacetal (POM).

[0024] When the pedal 13 is depressed, the buffer member 50 rolls as shown by arrow A in Fig. 4. In this embodiment, the buffer member 50 is provided to be rotatable relative to the lever 41 so that the buffer member 50 rolls without slipping on the contact surface when the pedal 13 is depressed.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 6 , as indicated by the thick dashed line, the pad 14 and the cushioning member 50 roll without sliding on their contact surfaces when the pad 14 is stepped on. Furthermore, when the pad 14 is stepped on, as indicated by the block arrow, the contact surfaces of the cushioning member 50 and the lever 41 slide, causing the lever 41 to translate toward the center of rotation due to geometric constraints. Here, the equation of rotational motion for the cushioning member 50 is given by Equation (1). In the equation and in FIG. 6 , the parameters are as follows, and rolling resistance is ignored here. Note that in FIG. 6 , the vectors are slightly shifted so that they can be seen.

[0026] Idω / dt=R×μ1×N−r×μ2×N (1)

[0027] μ1: dynamic friction coefficient between pad 14 and buffer member 50 (μ1′: static friction coefficient) μ2: dynamic friction coefficient between lever 41 and buffer member 50 R: outer diameter of buffer member 50 r: inner diameter of buffer member 50 N: pressing force of lever 41 against pad 14 by actuator lever biasing member I: moment of inertia of buffer member 50

[0028] The value of dω / dt in the formula (1) is determined by the pedaling acceleration of the pad 14. The requirement for the contact surface between the pad 14 and the cushioning member 50 to roll without slipping is "μ1<μ1'." That is, at a pedaling acceleration that satisfies (2), slippage occurs between the pad 14 and the cushioning member 50.

[0029] dω / dt>(R×μ1'×N-r×μ2×N) / I...(2)

[0030] From equation (2), in order for the cushioning member 50 to roll against the pad 14 without slipping even with a quick pedal depression, it is desirable that μ1' be large, μ2 be small, R be large, r be small, and N be large. In terms of the coefficient of friction, the larger μ1' is relative to μ2, the more advantageous the configuration is for the cushioning member 50 to roll against the pad 14 without slipping. In this way, by making the cushioning member 50 a roller that rolls against the pad 14, the pedal 13 can be operated smoothly without sticking to the cushioning member 50.

[0031] In this embodiment, the buffer member 50 is not fixed to the pedal 13 and can be separated from it. Therefore, when the pedal 13 is suddenly released from a depressed state, the difference in the return speed between the pedal 13 and the lever 41 causes the pedal 13 and the buffer member 50 to separate, and the pedal 13 returns to the fully closed position first. If the lever 41 returns later in this state, the pedal 13 and the buffer member 50 will collide. For example, if the buffer member 50 is made of a material with a relatively high hardness, a collision noise will be generated.

[0032] One possible way to reduce the impact noise between the pedal 13 and the buffer member 50 is to use a material with a relatively low hardness for the buffer member 50. However, a material with a low hardness has a high coefficient of friction, which hinders the rolling of the buffer member 50, and the contact portion between the pedal 13 and the buffer member 50 slides instead of rolling, which may increase wear. In other words, there is a trade-off between the impact noise when the pedal is suddenly released and the good rolling of the buffer member 50, and it is difficult to achieve a good balance if the buffer member 50 is made of a single material.

[0033] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , in order to achieve both reduced impact noise during sudden pedal release and good sliding properties, the buffer member 50 is divided into a contact member 51 and a sliding member 61. Specifically, the contact member 51, which is located on the outer periphery and contacts the pedal 13, is made of a low-hardness material to reduce impact noise. The sliding member 61, which is located on the inner periphery and contacts the lever 41, is made of a high-hardness material to ensure good sliding properties. In other words, if the hardness of the contact member 51 is α1 and the hardness of the sliding member 61 is α2, then α1 < α2. Furthermore, as described above, the coefficients of friction μ1 > μ2 are such that the buffer member 50 rolls against the pedal 13 when the pedal 13 is depressed.

[0034] In this embodiment, the contact member 51, which is provided on the radially outer side and contacts the pedal 13, is made of a material with low hardness, while the sliding member 61, which is provided on the radially inner side and slides against the lever 41, is made of a material with high hardness and a low coefficient of friction. This makes it possible to achieve both reduced hitting noise when the pedal is suddenly released and good sliding properties with the lever 41.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 5 , the sliding member 61 is longer than the abutting member 51. That is, when the axial length of the abutting member 51 is L1 and the axial length of the sliding member 61 is L2, L1<L2. The sliding member 61 is formed with a shaft locking portion 611 that protrudes radially outward on the axially outer side of the abutting member 51. The shaft locking portion 611 is formed on both axial sides and has a tapered shape that decreases in diameter as it extends axially outward. The provision of the shaft locking portion 611 prevents the abutting member 51 from slipping out in the axial direction. In addition, the radially outer end of the shaft locking portion 611 is formed so as to be radially inward relative to the outer circumferential surface of the abutting member 51.

[0036] The buffer member 50 is rotatable relative to the lever 41 and is movable in the axial direction between the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45. The buffer member 50 is formed so that the axial length L2 of the sliding member 61 is longer than the axial length L1 of the abutting member 51, and the ends thereof become the sliding members 61 on both axial sides. Therefore, when the buffer member 50 moves axially, the sliding member 61 abuts against the stepped surface 433 or the retaining member 45. As a result, the sliding member 61 is the member that abuts against the configuration of the lever 41, including the retaining member 45, and therefore sliding resistance can be reduced compared to when the abutting member 51 abuts.

[0037] Furthermore, the outermost diameter of the sliding member 61 (in this embodiment, the outer diameter D2 of the shaft locking portion 611) is smaller than the outer diameter D1 of the abutting member 51. That is, D1 > D2. In other words, the sliding member 61 does not protrude radially outward beyond the abutting member 51 at any point. This allows the abutting member 51 to abut against the pedal 13 regardless of the axial position of the buffer member 50. This makes it possible to suppress the impact noise that occurs when the pedal is suddenly released.

[0038] As described above, the reaction force device 30 is capable of applying a reaction force to the accelerator device 10, which includes the pedal 13 operated by the driver, in response to the driver's depression force, and includes the actuator 35 and the reaction force transmission mechanism 40. The actuator 35 generates a driving force when energized. The reaction force transmission mechanism 40 includes a lever 41 and a buffer member 50. The lever 41 has a buffer member holder 43 and is driven by the actuator 35. The buffer member 50 is provided on the buffer member holder 43 and abuts against the pedal 13 in a manner that allows it to be separated from the pedal 13.

[0039] The buffer member 50 has an abutment member 51 that abuts against the pedal 13, and a sliding member 61 that is provided between the abutment member 51 and the buffer member holding portion 43, and is provided so as to be able to roll between the pedal 13 and the lever 41. The abutment member 51 has a lower hardness than the sliding member 61. By making the abutment member 51 relatively low hardness and the sliding member 61 relatively high hardness, it is possible to ensure slidability while reducing the impact noise that occurs when the pedal is suddenly released. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce wear due to rolling compared to when the entire buffer member 50 is made of a low-hardness material.

[0040] The friction coefficient μ2 of the sliding member 61 is smaller than the friction coefficient μ1 of the abutting member 51. The abutting member 51 and the sliding member 61 are fixed so as not to rotate relative to each other. This allows the buffer member 50 to roll appropriately between the pedal 13 and the lever 41.

[0041] The contact member 51 and the sliding member 61 are formed in a cylindrical shape, and the outer peripheral surface of the contact member 51 provided on the outer peripheral side contacts the pedal 13, while the buffer member holding portion 43 is inserted radially inside the sliding member 61 provided on the inner peripheral side. This allows the buffer member 50 to roll appropriately between the pedal 13 and the lever 41.

[0042] The axial length L2 of the sliding member 61 is greater than the axial length L1 of the abutting member 51, and the sliding member 61 is provided to protrude beyond the abutting member 51 on both sides in the axial direction. This allows the sliding member 61 to be the location where the buffer member 50 slides against the lever 41 in the axial direction, so that friction during the rolling of the buffer member 50 can be reduced compared to when the abutting member 51 and the lever 41 abut against each other.

[0043] The sliding member 61 is provided with shaft locking portions 611 that extend radially outward on both axial sides. This makes it possible to restrict relative axial movement of the abutment member 51. Furthermore, the radially outer end of the shaft locking portions 611 is located radially inward relative to the outer circumferential surface of the abutment member 51. Because the shaft locking portions 611 do not protrude radially outward from the abutment member 51, the abutment member 51 and the pedal 13 can be reliably abutted against each other.

[0044] The buffer member holding portion 43 is provided with a small diameter portion 431 that is inserted radially inside the buffer member 50, and a retaining portion that can abut the buffer member 50 on the axially outer side of the buffer member 50. In this embodiment, the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45 correspond to the "retaining portion." This prevents the buffer member 50 from coming off the lever 41.

[0045] Second Embodiment A second embodiment is shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to Fig. 5 of the first embodiment. The same applies to Figs. 15, 16, 18 to 20 described below. In the second embodiment, the shaft locking portion 611 of the sliding member 61 is omitted, and the sliding member 61 is formed radially inward of the abutting member 51 as a whole. Even with this configuration, the same effects as the above embodiment can be achieved.

[0046] Third and Fourth Embodiments In the third to seventh embodiments, the description will be centered on the fixation of the contact member and the sliding member in the buffer member 50. The fixing structure described here may be provided in combination with each of the embodiments.

[0047] The third embodiment is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , and the third embodiment is shown in FIG. 10 . FIGS. 8 and 10 show axial cross sections of the buffer member 50, and FIG. 9 shows a radial cross section of the buffer member 50. A sliding member 62 of the third embodiment is formed with a locking protrusion 621 that protrudes radially outward from the outer circumferential surface. Furthermore, a locking recess 521 that fits into the locking protrusion 621 is formed in the abutting member 52. The locking protrusion 621 fits into the locking recess 521, and the circumferential surfaces abut, thereby restricting relative rotation between the abutting member 52 and the sliding member 62. The locking protrusion 621 fits into the locking recess 521, and the axial surfaces abut, thereby restricting relative axial movement between the abutting member 52 and the sliding member 62. In this embodiment, the locking protrusions 621 and the locking recesses 521 are formed at four locations spaced apart in the circumferential direction, but the number and shape of the locking protrusions 621 and the locking recesses 521 can be set as desired.

[0048] Furthermore, as in the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 9, a locking protrusion 531 may be formed on the abutting member 53, and a locking recess 631 that fits into the locking protrusion 531 may be formed on the sliding member 63 as a rotation prevention and removal prevention structure.

[0049] In the third embodiment, a locking recess 521 and a locking protrusion 621 that restrict relative movement to at least one side are provided on the contact surfaces between the contact member 52 and the sliding member 62. In the third embodiment, the locking recess 521 and the locking protrusion 621 correspond to the "locking portion."

[0050] In the fourth embodiment, the abutment surfaces of the abutting member 53 and the sliding member 63 are provided with locking protrusions 531 and locking recesses 631 that restrict relative movement in at least one direction. In the fourth embodiment, the locking protrusions 531 and the locking recesses 631 correspond to "locking portions." This makes it possible to appropriately restrict the relative rotation and axial movement between the abutting members 52, 53 and the sliding members 62, 63. In addition, the same effects as those of the above embodiments are achieved.

[0051] Fifth Embodiment A fifth embodiment is shown in FIG. 11 . FIG. 11 shows a radial cross section of the buffer member 50. The outer peripheral surface of the sliding member 64 in the fifth embodiment is formed to have an elliptical cross section. The inner peripheral surface of the abutting member 54 is formed to have an elliptical cross section corresponding to the outer peripheral surface of the sliding member 64. Even with this configuration, it is possible to restrict relative rotation between the abutting member 54 and the sliding member 64. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface on the major diameter side of the sliding member 64 functions as a "locking portion" and restricts relative rotation. Even with this configuration, the same effects as the above-described embodiments can be achieved.

[0052] Sixth Embodiment A sixth embodiment is shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 . FIG. 12 shows an axial cross section of the buffer member 50. In the sixth embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the sliding member 65 is formed with fine irregularities, as shown in FIG. 13 , by, for example, knurling. The irregularities are not limited to a mesh pattern and may be formed in any manner. The abutting member 55 is formed on the radially outer side of the sliding member 65 by, for example, insert molding or two-color molding. As a result, the inner peripheral surface of the abutting member 55 is formed to fit into the gaps between the irregularities formed on the outer peripheral surface of the sliding member 65, functioning as a rotation stopper and a stopper between the abutting member 55 and the sliding member 65. That is, in this embodiment, the meshing structure between the outer peripheral surface of the sliding member 65 and the inner peripheral surface of the abutting member 55 functions as a "locking portion" that restricts relative rotation and axial movement. This configuration achieves the same effects as the above-described embodiment.

[0053] Seventh Embodiment A seventh embodiment is shown in FIG. 14 . FIG. 14 shows an axial cross section of the buffer member 50. In the seventh embodiment, the sliding member 66 has a larger diameter at its axial middle portion than at its axial end portions, resulting in a convex overall middle portion in a cross section along the axial direction. The abutting member 56 has a thinner plate thickness at its axial middle portion than at its axial end portions along the outer periphery of the sliding member 66, resulting in a concave overall middle portion in a cross section along the axial direction. Changing the diameters of the abutting member 56 and the sliding member 66 along the axial direction functions as a retainer in the axial direction. Note that the relationship between the convex and concave portions may be reversed. In this embodiment, the concave and convex portions in the axial direction function as a "locking portion" to restrict relative movement in the axial direction. This configuration also achieves the same effects as the above-described embodiments.

[0054] Eighth Embodiment An eighth embodiment is shown in Fig. 15. For example, in the second embodiment, the axial length of the sliding member 61 is made longer than that of the abutting member 51, so that the sliding member 61 abuts against the step surface 433 and the retaining member 45.

[0055] In this embodiment, the relationship expressed by equation (3) is established when the inner diameter of the sliding member 67 is d2, the outer diameter is D2, and the outer diameters of the large diameter portion 432 of the buffer member holding portion 43 of the lever 41 and the retaining member 45 are D3. Furthermore, when the radial gap between the buffer member holding portion 43 and the sliding member 67 is G, the outer diameter D2 of the sliding member 67 and the outer diameter D3 of the large diameter portion 432 are established by equation (4). Furthermore, when the outer diameter of the small diameter portion 431 is D4, the gap G is established by equation (5). Note that the outer diameters of the large diameter portion 432 and the retaining member 45 may be different as long as the relationship in size with the sliding member 67 is maintained.

[0056] d2<D3<D2...(3) D2>D3+G...(4) G=d2-D4...(5)

[0057] This allows the sliding member 67, which comes into contact with the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45, to have a small coefficient of friction, regardless of the axial length of the sliding member 67. In other words, as long as the relationships of formulas (3) to (5) are established, the axial length of the sliding member 67 may be equal to or less than the axial length of the contact member 51.

[0058] The outer diameter D3 of the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45, which are the retaining portions, is larger than the inner diameter d2 of the sliding member 67 but smaller than the outer diameter D2 of the sliding member 67. More specifically, the outer diameter D2 of the sliding member 67 is larger than the outer diameter D3 plus the gap G between the buffer member 50 and the buffer member holding portion 43. This allows the sliding member 67 to be the location where the buffer member 50 slides against the lever 41 in the axial direction, thereby reducing friction during rolling of the buffer member 50 compared to when the abutting member 51 abuts against the lever 41. This also provides the same effects as the above embodiment.

[0059] 16 shows a ninth embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, a retaining member 45 separate from the lever 41 is provided on one axial side of the sliding member to restrict axial movement of the buffer member. In the eighth embodiment, the retaining member 45 is not provided, and the lever 41 and the buffer member 50 are snap-fit ​​to restrict axial movement.

[0060] More specifically, an annular recess 435 is formed on the tip side of the buffer member holding portion 43 of the lever 41. Furthermore, a retaining protrusion 681 is formed on the sliding member 68 of the buffer member 50, protruding radially inward and fitting into the annular recess 435. The retaining protrusion 681 is formed in any shape that does not restrict the rolling of the buffer member 50. The retaining protrusion 681 restricts relative movement between the lever 41 and the buffer member 50 in the axial direction by fitting into the annular recess 435.

[0061] It is also possible to form a convex portion on the side of the lever 41 and a concave portion on the side of the sliding member 68 that fits with the convex portion of the lever 41. The retaining convex portion 681 has an inclined surface on the insertion direction side, and when the buffer member 50 is assembled to the lever 41, the retaining convex portion 681 is inserted into the buffer member holding portion 43 while being pushed apart. That is, in this embodiment, the axial position of the buffer member 50 is determined by the snap-fit ​​shape between the buffer member holding portion 43 and the sliding member 68.

[0062] In this embodiment, an annular recess 435 is formed on one of the sliding member 68 or the buffer member holding portion 43, and a retaining projection 681 that fits into the annular recess 435 is formed on the other of the sliding member 68 or the buffer member holding portion 43. This prevents the buffer member 50 from coming off in the axial direction. Furthermore, the number of parts can be reduced compared to when a retaining member is provided separately from the lever 41.

[0063] Tenth Embodiment A tenth embodiment is shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B. In this embodiment, after a buffer member 50 (not shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B) is inserted into a buffer member holding portion 43, a flange 436 is formed at the tip of the buffer member holding portion 43 by crimping or the like. The flange 436 functions to prevent the buffer member 50 from falling out. FIGS. 17A and 17B show variations in the shape of the flange 436, and the flange 436 can be formed in any shape that can prevent the buffer member 50 from falling out. This allows the number of parts to be reduced. Furthermore, the same effects as the above-described embodiments can be achieved.

[0064] (Eleventh to Thirteenth Embodiments) An eleventh embodiment is shown in FIG. 18. In FIGS. 18 to 20, the areas where the buffer member 50 slides against other components are shaded. For example, when the buffer member 50 is formed by injection molding, burrs M1, gate remnants M2, ejector pin marks M3, and the like may be formed. Hereinafter, the burrs M1, gate remnants M2, ejector pin marks M3, gaps M4 in FIG. 19, and protrusions M5 in FIG. 10 are collectively referred to as molding marks M. If molding marks M are formed at areas where the buffer member 50 slides against other components, there is a risk that the operating feel will be impaired due to the step. Therefore, in this embodiment, relief recesses 518, 618 are formed at the areas where the molding marks M are formed.

[0065] Deterioration of the operational feel can be prevented by forming molding marks M inside the relief recesses 518, 618. Note that if the axial length of the sliding member 61 is longer than the length of the abutting member 51 and even if molding marks M are formed on the axial side surface of the abutting member 51, they do not interfere with the stepped surface 433 and the retaining member 45, then the relief recesses 518 do not need to be formed.

[0066] 19 and 20, the molding marks M may be on the contact surface side between the contact member 51 and the sliding member 61. Specifically, in the 12th embodiment shown in FIG. 19, if a burr generated by mold separation is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the contact member 51, the contact member 51 has a lower hardness than the sliding member 61. Therefore, when the burr is crushed by press-fitting or the like, the resin around the burr is pulled, and a void M4 is formed. Even if a step occurs due to the formation of the void M4, the step is not in a position where it slides against other members, and therefore does not affect the operational feel.

[0067] In the thirteenth embodiment shown in Fig. 20, a protrusion M5 such as a gate residue is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the sliding member 61, and an escape groove 519 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the abutting member 51. The escape groove 519 is provided at the location where the protrusion M5 is formed. The protrusion M5 and the escape groove 519 are formed at a location that does not slide against other members, so they do not affect the operational feel.

[0068] In this embodiment, the molding marks M formed on the buffer member 50 are formed inside the relief recesses 518, 618 or in non-contact areas that do not come into contact with other components (i.e., the pedal 13 and the lever 41).

[0069] The gap M4 and the protrusion M5, which are molding marks, are formed on the contact surface side of the contact member 51 and the sliding member 61. In particular, in the twelfth embodiment, the gap M4 formed in the contact member 51 is formed on the inner peripheral surface. In addition, in the thirteenth embodiment, the protrusion M5 formed in the sliding member 61 is formed on the outer peripheral surface. This makes it possible to prevent deterioration of the operating feel due to the molding mark M interfering with other members. In addition, the same effects as those of the above embodiments are achieved.

[0070] 21 and 22 show a fourteenth embodiment. In this embodiment, a reaction force device 30 is applied to a so-called suspended (pendant) accelerator device 20. The accelerator device 20 has a pedal housing 21 and a pedal 23. The pedal housing 21 is attached to the floor panel 2 of the vehicle, for example, by a mounting bolt (not shown).

[0071] The pedal 23 has a pad 24, a pedal base 25, and a pedal connection portion 26. The pedal connection portion 26 is made of, for example, metal. The pad 24 is provided on one end of the pedal connection portion 26, and the pedal base 25 is provided on the other end, connecting the pad 24 and the pedal base 25. The pedal base 25 is rotatably provided on the pedal housing 21 so as to rotate around the rotation axis Ax1. This allows the pedal 23 to rotate around the rotation axis Ax1.

[0072] The pedal 23 is provided with an accelerator opening sensor that detects the rotation angle, similar to the pedal 13. The pedal 23 is biased in the accelerator closing direction by a pedal biasing member, and is provided rotatable between two stoppers that restrict rotation in the accelerator opening and closing directions.

[0073] The accelerator device 20 further includes an arm 28. The arm 28 is formed, for example, by bending a long metal plate at a predetermined location, and is attached to the pedal 23 with one end connected to the pedal base 25. This allows the arm 28 to rotate together with the pedal 23 around the rotation axis Ax1.

[0074] In the reaction force device 30 of this embodiment, the lever body 42 is formed shorter than in the above-described embodiment, and the reaction force device 30 is provided so that the buffer member 50 abuts against the surface of the arm 28 of the accelerator device 20 opposite the floor panel 2. As a result, when driven by the actuator 35, the reaction force device 30 can apply a reaction force F2 in response to the driver's depression force F1 to the pedal 23 via the speed reduction mechanism, lever 41, buffer member 50, and arm 28.

[0075] In this embodiment, the buffer member 50 is provided on the buffer member holder 43 and abuts separably against the arm 28, which is driven integrally with the pedal 23. The buffer member 50 has an abutting member 51 that abuts against the arm 28 and a sliding member 61 that is provided between the abutting member 51 and the buffer member holder 43, and is capable of rolling between the arm 28 and the lever 41. The buffer member 50 may be of any of the above embodiments. Even with this configuration, the same effects as those of the above embodiments can be achieved.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the arm 28 corresponds to the "intermediate member," the lever 41 corresponds to the "rotating member," the abutment members 51 to 56 correspond to the "first member," the sliding members 61 to 68 correspond to the "second member," and the step surface 433, the flange portion 436 and the anti-pullout member 45 correspond to the "anti-pullout portion."

[0077] (Other Embodiments) In the above embodiment, the abutting member and the sliding member are fixed together. In other embodiments, the abutting member and the sliding member may be rotatable relative to each other. In the above embodiment, the buffer member is formed in a cylindrical shape. In other embodiments, the shape of the buffer member is not limited to a cylindrical shape as long as the first member is capable of abutting and rolling against the pedal and the second member is capable of sliding against the rotating member.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the actuator is a motor. In other embodiments, an actuator other than a motor may be used. Furthermore, the configurations and component arrangements of the reaction force transmission mechanism and accelerator device may be different from those in the above embodiment.

[0079] (Disclosure of Technical Ideas) This specification discloses multiple technical ideas described in the following multiple clauses. Some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, with the subsequent clause alternatively referring to the preceding clause. Furthermore, some clauses may be described in a multiple dependent form, with the subsequent clause referring to another multiple dependent clause. These multiple dependent clauses define multiple technical ideas.

[0080] (Technical Idea 1) A reaction force device capable of applying a reaction force to an accelerator device (10, 20) having a pedal (13, 23) that is depressed by a driver in response to the pedal depression force of the driver, the reaction force device comprising: an actuator (35) that generates a driving force when energized; a rotating member (41) having a buffer member holding portion (43) and driven by the actuator; and a reaction force transmission mechanism (40) that transmits a reaction force to the pedal side, the reaction force transmission mechanism having a buffer member (50) that is provided on the buffer member holding portion and abuts separably against the pedal or an intermediate member (28) that is driven integrally with the pedal; the buffer member having a first member (51-56) that abuts against the pedal or the intermediate member, and a second member (61-68) that is provided between the first member and the buffer member holding portion, and is provided so as to be rotatable between the pedal or the intermediate member and the rotating member; and the first member having a lower hardness than the second member. (Technical Idea 2) The reaction force device according to Technical Idea 1, in which the coefficient of friction of the second member is smaller than the coefficient of friction of the first member. (Technical Idea 3) The reaction force device according to Technical Idea 1 or 2, in which the first member and the second member are fixed so as not to rotate relative to each other. (Technical Idea 4) The reaction force device according to Technical Idea 3, in which a locking portion (521, 531, 621, 631) that restricts relative movement in at least one direction is provided on the abutting surfaces of the first member and the second member. (Technical Idea 5) The reaction force device according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 4, in which the first member and the second member are formed cylindrically, and the outer peripheral surface of the first member provided on the outer peripheral side abuts against the pedal or the intermediate member, and the buffer member holding portion is inserted radially inside the second member provided on the inner peripheral side. (Technical Idea 6) The reaction force device according to Technical Idea 5, wherein the axial length of the second member (61) is greater than the axial length of the first member (51), and the second member is provided so as to protrude beyond the first member on both axial sides. (Technical Idea 7) The reaction force device according to Technical Idea 6, wherein the second member is provided with shaft locking portions (611) extending radially outward on both axial sides.(Technical Idea 8) A reaction force device according to Technical Idea 7, in which a radially outer end of the shaft locking portion is located radially inward of the outer peripheral surface of the first member. (Technical Idea 9) A reaction force device according to any one of Technical Ideas 5 to 8, in which the buffer member holding portion is provided with a small-diameter portion (431) inserted into the radially inner side of the buffer member, and a retaining portion (433, 436, 45) that is able to abut against the buffer member on the axially outer side of the buffer member. (Technical Idea 10) A reaction force device according to Technical Idea 9, in which the outer diameter of the retaining portion is larger than the inner diameter of the second member (67) and smaller than the outer diameter of the second member. (Technical Idea 11) A reaction force device according to any one of Technical Ideas 5 to 8, in which one of the second member (68) or the buffer member holding portion is formed with an annular recess (435), and the other of the second member or the buffer member holding portion is formed with a retaining protrusion (681) that fits into the annular recess. (Technical Idea 12) A reaction force device according to any one of Technical Ideas 1 to 11, wherein the molding marks formed on the buffer member are formed inside a relief recess (518, 618) or in a non-contact area that does not contact another member. (Technical Idea 13) A reaction force device according to Technical Idea 12, wherein the molding marks are formed on the contact surface side between the first member and the second member.

[0081] As described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0082] The present disclosure has been described based on the embodiments. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and structures. The present disclosure also encompasses various modifications and variations within the scope of equivalents. Furthermore, various combinations and forms, as well as other combinations and forms including only one element, more than one element, or less than one element, are also within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A reaction force device capable of applying a reaction force to an accelerator device (10, 20) having a pedal (13, 23) operated by a driver in response to the pedal depression force of the driver, the reaction force device comprising: an actuator (35) that generates a driving force when energized; a rotating member (41) having a buffer member holding portion (43) and driven by the actuator; and a reaction force transmission mechanism (40) that transmits a reaction force to the pedal side, the reaction force transmission mechanism having a buffer member (50) that is provided on the buffer member holding portion and abuts separably against the pedal or an intermediate member (28) that is driven integrally with the pedal; the buffer member having a first member (51-56) that abuts against the pedal or the intermediate member, and a second member (61-68) that is provided between the first member and the buffer member holding portion, and that is provided so as to be rotatable between the pedal or the intermediate member and the rotating member, the first member having a lower hardness than the second member.

2. A reaction force device as set forth in claim 1, wherein the coefficient of friction of said second member is smaller than the coefficient of friction of said first member.

3. A reaction force device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first member and the second member are fixed so as not to be able to rotate relative to each other.

4. A reaction force device as described in claim 3, wherein the contact surfaces of the first member and the second member are provided with locking portions (521, 531, 621, 631) that restrict relative movement in at least one direction.

5. A reaction force device as described in claim 1, wherein the first member and the second member are formed cylindrically, and the outer peripheral surface of the first member provided on the outer periphery abuts against the pedal or the intermediate member, and the buffer member holding portion is inserted radially inside the second member provided on the inner periphery.

6. A reaction force device as described in claim 5, wherein the axial length of the second member (61) is greater than the axial length of the first member (51), and the second member is provided so as to protrude beyond the first member on both axial sides.

7. A reaction force device according to claim 6, wherein the second member is provided with shaft locking portions (611) extending radially outward on both axial sides.

8. A reaction force device according to claim 7, wherein the radially outer end of said shaft engaging portion is located radially inward of the outer peripheral surface of said first member.

9. A reaction force device as described in claim 5, wherein the buffer member holding portion is provided with a small diameter portion (431) that is inserted radially inside the buffer member, and a retaining portion (433, 436, 45) that is capable of abutting against the buffer member on the axial outside of the buffer member.

10. A reaction force device as described in claim 9, wherein the outer diameter of the retaining portion is larger than the inner diameter of the second member (67) and smaller than the outer diameter of the second member.

11. A reaction force device as described in any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein an annular recess (435) is formed in one of the second member (68) or the buffer member holding portion, and a retaining protrusion (681) that fits into the annular recess is formed in the other of the second member or the buffer member holding portion.

12. A reaction device as described in claim 1, wherein the molding marks formed on the buffer member are formed inside the relief recess (518, 618) or in a non-contact area that does not contact other members.

13. A reaction device according to claim 12, wherein the molding marks are formed on the contact surfaces between the first member and the second member.

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