Front pillar, pipe member, and vehicle structure

Abstract

[Problem] To improve load transmission performance compared to the prior art. [Solution] A front pillar formed from one member, wherein the front end of the front pillar is positioned in front of a cabin, the rear end of the front pillar is positioned behind the area of a front window, and the width of the front pillar becomes narrower as proximity to the front side increases. A vehicle structure according to the present invention comprises: the front pillar; a side sill; and a transmission member in which a tip section of one of the front pillar and the side sill is joined to a tip section of the other, and a load applied to the other tip section is transmitted to the side sill.

Description

Front pillar, pipe member, and vehicle structure

[0001] The technology of the present disclosure relates to a front pillar, a pipe member, and a vehicle structure.

[0002] Most conventional automobile body structures are monocoque structures. "Mono" means "single" and "coque" refers to the shell of an egg or similar. A monocoque-structured car body is shaped like an eggshell. Monocoque structures are also called stressed skin structures. A monocoque structure is characterized by the fact that, instead of relying on a framework to provide overall strength and rigidity, it provides strength and rigidity by providing minimal reinforcement to the outer panels necessary to create the shape. To achieve strength and rigidity, monocoque structures join multiple panels together. For this reason, monocoque structures have various problems, such as reduced production efficiency due to the increased number of joints, limited freedom in installing wide windows, and restrictions on interior space.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a vehicle having an engine compartment located at the front and a front pillar. The engine compartment is defined by a pair of upper members provided on the left and right sides of the vehicle and a pair of front side frames located below the pair of upper members and provided on the left and right sides of the vehicle. The ends (lower ends) of the front pillars are joined to the side sills and do not reach the engine compartment. The rear ends of the upper members are joined between the lower and upper ends of the front pillars.

[0004] JP 2011-046298 A

[0005] When the vehicle using the above-mentioned conventional technology collides head-on with another object, the load generated by the collision is transmitted to the front pillars and other components via the upper member. However, because the upper member and the front pillars are separate components and connected by welding or other methods, the joints break and the load is not transmitted to the roof. Therefore, the load is not easily transmitted to the roof via the front pillars, resulting in poor load transmission performance.

[0006] A first object of the technology of the present disclosure is to provide a front pillar and a pipe member that can improve load transmission performance compared to conventional technologies.

[0007] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned conventional vehicle, the width of the front pillars increases as they are positioned further forward, resulting in poor visibility.

[0008] A second object of the technology of the present disclosure is to provide a front pillar and a pipe member that can improve visibility compared to conventional technologies.

[0009] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned conventional vehicle, the load caused by the collision is absorbed by the front pillars and is not easily distributed to the side sills.

[0010] A third object of the technology of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle structure that can transmit a load during a collision to the side sill more effectively than conventional technology.

[0011] In order to achieve the first object, a first aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a front pillar formed from a single member, the front end of the front pillar being located forward of the cabin.A second aspect is a pipe member formed from a single member, the front end of the pipe member being located forward of the cabin.

[0012] In order to achieve the second object, a third aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a front pillar formed from a single member, the rear end of the front pillar being located rearward of the front window area, and the width of the front pillar becoming narrower as it moves forward.A fourth aspect is a pipe member formed from a single member, the rear end of the pipe member being located rearward of the front window area, and the width of the pipe member becoming wider as it moves rearward.

[0013] In order to achieve the third object, a fifth aspect of the technology of the present disclosure is a vehicle structure comprising a front pillar and a side sill, wherein a tip end of one of the front pillar and the side sill is joined to the other, and the vehicle structure comprises a transmission member that transmits a load applied to the tip end of the other to the side sill.A sixth aspect is a vehicle structure comprising a pipe member and a side sill, wherein a tip end of one of the pipe member and the side sill is joined to the other, and the vehicle structure comprises a transmission member that transmits a load applied to the tip end of the other to the side sill.

[0014] The front pillars according to the first and second aspects of the technology of the present disclosure can improve load transmission performance compared to conventional techniques.

[0015] The front pillars according to the third and fourth aspects of the technology of the present disclosure can improve visibility compared to conventional technologies.

[0016] The vehicle structures according to the fifth and sixth aspects of the technique of the present disclosure are capable of transmitting a greater load to the side sill in the event of a collision than conventional techniques.

[0017] FIG. 1A is a perspective view showing an example of a vehicle structure according to an embodiment. FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a structure between a front pillar and a transmission member in the vehicle structure according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a front portion of a left front pillar. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a rear portion of a left front pillar. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a left side sill. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a roof front frame. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a rear frame. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a left transmission member. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a left side frame. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a left-side joined member. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a front frame. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing positions and cross-sectional views of a front bumper and a rear bumper. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a front bumper. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a rear bumper. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a floor center frame. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a structure between a front pillar and a transmission member in a vehicle structure according to a first modified example. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a front pillar and a transmission member in a vehicle structure of a second modified example. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of a left front pillar of a third modified example. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of a left front pillar of a fourth modified example. Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of a left front pillar of a fifth modified example. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of a left front pillar of a sixth modified example.

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0019] 1A is a perspective view showing an example of a vehicle structure 1 according to an embodiment. In FIG. 1A, F indicates the traveling direction of the vehicle (i.e., the direction toward the front).

[0020] 1A, the vehicle structure 1 of this embodiment includes one side frame 113 on each side, a transmission member 112, a member to be joined 114, a front pillar 101, a center pillar 150, a rear pillar 110, a rear vertical frame 109, a rear underframe 111, and a side sill 105. The front pillar 101, the center pillar 150, and the rear pillar 110 may also be referred to as the A-pillar, the B-pillar, and the C-pillar, respectively.

[0021] The vehicle structure 1 includes a front bumper 118 , a front frame 115 , a front roof frame 106 , a rear roof frame 107 , a rear frame 108 , and a rear bumper 119 .

[0022] The vehicle structure 1 includes a plurality of floor cross members 116 and a rear cross member 117. The vehicle structure 1 includes a door beam 120.

[0023] Since the left and right sides have the same configuration, only the configuration of the left side will be described, and the description of the configuration of the right side will be omitted.

[0024] The upper end of a center pillar 150 is joined to the front pillar 101. The lower end of the center pillar 150 is joined to the side sill 105.

[0025] The upper ends of the rear pillar 110 and the rear vertical frame 109 are joined to the rear end of the front pillar 101. The lower end of the rear pillar 110 is joined to the left end of the rear cross member 117. The upper end of the rear underframe 111 is joined to the left end of the rear cross member 117. The lower end of the rear underframe 111 is joined to the rear end of the side sill 105. The lower end of the rear vertical frame 109 is joined to the left end of the rear bumper 119.

[0026] The lower end of a rear underframe 111 is joined to the rear end of the side sill 105. The lower end of a transmission member 112 is joined to the front end of the side sill 105. The upper end (i.e., the tip) of the transmission member 112 is joined to the front pillar 101. A joined member 114 is joined between the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112.

[0027] The front end of the side frame 113 is joined to the left end of the front bumper 118. The rear end of the side frame 113 is joined to the front end of the side sill 105.

[0028] 1B is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a front pillar 101 and a transmission member 112 in a vehicle structure 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1B, a front end 101t of the front pillar 101 is located forward of the cabin (the rear end of the engine compartment). The front end 101t of the front pillar 101 is located above (or forward of) the position of a damper housing for a front tire (not shown).

[0029] The rear end 101r of the front pillar 101 is located rearward of the front window. Specifically, as described above, the rear end 101r of the front pillar 101 is joined to the upper end of the rear pillar 110 (i.e., connection point Pc). Note that the rear end 101r of the front pillar 101 may also be located at the upper end of the center pillar 150 (i.e., connection point Pb).

[0030] The width of the front pillar 101 increases as it moves further rearward. The position where the width of the front pillar 101 starts to increase is the rear end Pw of the front widow area (or a position rearward of the end Pw).

[0031] The tip end of either the front pillar 101 or the transmission member 112 is joined to the other. Specifically, the tip end Pe (i.e., the front end) of the transmission member 112 is joined to the front pillar 101.

[0032] The vehicle structure 1 includes a transmission member 112 that transmits a load applied to a front end 101t of the front pillar 101 to the side sill 105, and a joined member 114 that is joined between the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112. An upper end Pa of the joined member 114 is joined to the front pillar 101. A lower end Pd of the joined member 114 is joined to the transmission member 112.

[0033] The space between the upper ends Pa of the left and right members to be joined 114 corresponds to the position of the front frame 115 and the position of the dashboard (not shown) that separates the engine compartment from the cabin. The area Ra forward of the space between the left and right upper ends Pa is the engine compartment area. The area Rb rear of the space between the upper ends Pa and forward of the front roof frame 106 is the front window area. The area Rc rear of the front roof frame 106 and in front of the rear roof frame 107 is the front roof area. The space between the upper ends (i.e., connection point Pb) of the left and right center pillars 150 corresponds to the position of the rear roof frame 107. The area Rd rear of the rear roof frame 107 and in front of the rear frame 108 is the rear roof area. The areas Rb to Rd are the cabin area.

[0034] The front tires and the damper housing are located below the area Ra of the engine compartment.

[0035] As described above, in this embodiment, the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 (see also FIG. 1B ) is located forward of the cabin. Therefore, this embodiment can improve the load transmission performance.

[0036] Specifically, in a conventional vehicle, when a frontal collision with another object occurs, the load generated by the collision is transmitted to the front pillars and other components via the upper member. However, because the upper member and the front pillar are separate components and connected by welding or other methods, the joint breaks and the load is not transmitted to the roof. Therefore, the load is not easily transmitted to the roof via the front pillar, resulting in poor load transmission performance.

[0037] However, in this embodiment, the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 is located forward of the cabin, so in the event of a frontal collision of the vehicle, the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 can bear the load that the front bumper 118 cannot bear, and the load can be transmitted to the roof side. Furthermore, because the front pillar is made of a single member, the load can be transmitted to the roof side more easily than in the prior art.

[0038] In this embodiment, the position where the width of the front pillar 101 begins to increase is the rear end Pw of the front window region Rb (or a position rearward of the end Pw) (see also FIG. 1B ). This allows the front pillar to be narrower in front of the rear end Pw, thereby improving occupant visibility. The width of the front pillar 101 also increases the further rearward it is located. This improves impact resistance when the above-mentioned load is applied to the front pillar 101. Furthermore, because the front pillar 101 is made of a single member, it is possible to produce a front pillar with superior strength and excellent load transmission characteristics for frontal loads, compared to front pillars formed by welding, for example, plate materials.

[0039] The width of the front pillar 101 may be constant in the region Rd.

[0040] Furthermore, this embodiment includes a transmission member 112 that transmits the load applied to the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 to the side sill 105. Therefore, the load can be transmitted to the side sill 105 more effectively than in the prior art.

[0041] In this way, in this embodiment, the load is distributed and transmitted to the rear side (specifically, the roof side) via the front pillar 101 and to the side sill 105 via the transmission member 112, thereby improving the impact resistance of the vehicle structure compared to conventional technology.

[0042] Furthermore, this embodiment includes a joined member 114 that is joined between the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112, so that when the above load is distributed and transmitted to the rear side via the front pillar 101 and to the side sill 105 via the transmission member 112, both the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112 can be reinforced.

[0043] (Front Pillar 101) Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along cross section d1 showing an example of a front portion 101F of the left front pillar 101. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along cross section d2 showing an example of a rear portion 101R of the left front pillar 101. The front portion 101F is located in region Rb. The rear portion 101R is located in region Rd. The outward direction is indicated by Out.

[0044] The cross-sectional shape of the front pillar 101 is a continuous closed cross-sectional (hollow) shape. The cross-sectional shape is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe. In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, two flanges are provided each. The front pillar 101 is also a pipe member.

[0045] The width of the front pillar 101 increases as it moves rearward.

[0046] 2, the closed cross-sectional shape of the front portion 101F of the front pillar 101 includes a first flange 101Ff1 and a second flange 101Ff2. The closed cross-sectional shape of the front portion 101F includes a first bent side portion 101F1 that bends toward the cabin at a first bent portion 101FK1, and a second bent side portion 101F2 that bends toward the outside of the cabin at a second bent portion 101FK2.

[0047] One end of each of the first bent side portion 101F1 and the second bent side portion 101F2 is connected to the first flange 101Ff1. The other end of each of the first bent side portion 101F1 and the second bent side portion 101F2 is connected to the second flange 101Ff2. The first flange 101Ff1 is a joint for installing a windshield. By providing the first flange 101Ff1, a separate bracket for attaching the windshield is not required. This allows for a reduction in the number of parts. The second flange 101Ff2 is joined to the outer panel. By providing the second flange 101Ff2, a bracket for attaching the outer panel is not required. This allows for a reduction in the number of parts.

[0048] The longest distance in the closed cross-sectional shape of the front portion 101F, that is, the distance between two points spaced apart, is the first distance H101F.

[0049] 3, the closed cross-sectional shape of the rear portion 101R of the front pillar 101 includes a first flange 101Rf1 and a second flange 101Rf2. The closed cross-sectional shape of the rear portion 101R includes a first bent side portion 101R1 that bends toward the cabin at a first bent portion 101RK1, and a second bent side portion 101R2 that bends toward the outside of the cabin at a second bent portion 101RK2.

[0050] One end of each of the first bent side portion 101R1 and the second bent side portion 101R2 is connected to a first flange 101Rf1. The other end of each of the first bent side portion 101R1 and the second bent side portion 101R2 is connected to a second flange 101Rf2. The first flange 101Rf1 is joined to a roof panel. Alternatively, the first flange 101Rf1 is a joint for installing a roof glass. The second flange 101Rf2 is joined to an outer panel.

[0051] The longest distance in the closed cross-sectional shape of the rear portion 101R, that is, the distance between two points apart, is the second distance H101R. As described above, in this embodiment, the width of the front pillar 101 increases the further rearward it is located. Therefore, the second distance H101R is longer than the first distance H101F. As a result, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second distance H101R is larger, making the member less susceptible to twisting and increasing the rigidity of the vehicle body.

[0052] In this manner, in this embodiment, the continuous closed cross-sectional shape of the front pillar 101 is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe, thereby achieving the following closed cross-sectional effects: In other words, compared to front pillars manufactured to a similar shape by joining two plates, the front pillar 101 of this embodiment can omit the joining of the two plates (for example, by spot welding), improve torsional rigidity, and reduce weight at low manufacturing costs.

[0053] Incidentally, an outer panel (e.g., an outer plate) may be joined to the outside of the second bent side portions 101F2, 101R2 of the front pillar 101. The joining of the outer panel is performed by joining both ends of the outer panel to the first flanges 101Ff1, 101Rf1 and the second flanges 101Ff2, 101Rf2, respectively.

[0054] (Side sill 105) Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d5, showing an example of the left side sill 105. The cross-sectional shape is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 4, two flanges are provided for each pipe.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 4, the closed cross-sectional shape of the side sill 105 includes a first flange 105f1 and a second flange 105f2. The closed cross-sectional shape includes a convex edge portion 105I that protrudes toward the cabin and a flat edge portion 105T that faces outward. A groove portion 105g is formed in the center of the convex edge portion 105I, recessed toward the outside of the vehicle (inside the closed cross-section of the side sill 105 in the example of Fig. 4).

[0056] The groove 105g is formed in the center of the protruding side 105I because it allows the formation of at least two protruding portions compared to a case where the groove 105g is not formed. This protruding side also functions as a hollow flange, making it less likely to deform in the event of an external collision.

[0057] One end of each of the protruding side portion 105I and the flat side portion 105T is connected to a first flange 105f1. The other end of each of the protruding side portion 105I and the flat side portion 105T is connected to a second flange 105f2. The first flange 105f1 and the second flange 105f2 are provided to improve the joinability with the outer panel.

[0058] The cross-sectional shape of the side sill 105 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0059] Further, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 105T as described above.

[0060] (Roof front frame 106) Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d6, showing an example of the roof front frame 106. The cross-sectional shape is formed so as to include at least one flange from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 5, one flange is provided. The direction toward the cabin is indicated by In.

[0061] Here, the reason why one flange is provided is that it is provided for joining the windshield, which makes it possible to omit a bracket for joining the windshield.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 5, the closed cross-sectional shape of the roof front frame 106 includes a flange 106f, a protruding side portion 106I that protrudes toward the cabin, and a protruding side portion 106T that protrudes toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0063] One end of each of the protruding side portions 106I and 106T is connected to a flange 106f. The other end of each of the protruding side portions 106I and 106T is connected to each other. The flange 106f is joined to the windshield.

[0064] The cross-sectional shape of the roof front frame 106 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0065] Alternatively, flanges may be provided on the other end side of each of the protruding side portions 106I and 106T, and the outer panel may be joined to the protruding side portion 106T as described above.

[0066] (Rear Frame 108) Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d8 showing an example of the rear frame 108. The cross-sectional shape is formed so as to include at least one flange from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 6, one flange is provided.

[0067] The reason for providing one flange is to allow the rear glass to be joined, which makes it possible to omit the bracket for joining the rear glass.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 6, the closed cross-sectional shape of the rear frame 108 includes a flange 108f, a protruding side portion 108I that protrudes toward the cabin, and a protruding side portion 108T that protrudes toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0069] One end of each of the protruding side portions 108I and 108T is connected to a flange 108f. The other end of each of the protruding side portions 108I and 108T is connected to each other. The flange 108f is bonded to the rear glass.

[0070] The cross-sectional shape of the rear frame 108 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0071] Alternatively, flanges may be provided on the other end side of each of the protruding side portions 108I and 108T, and the outer panel may be joined to the protruding side portion 108T as described above.

[0072] (Transmission member 112) Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d12, showing an example of the left transmission member 112. The cross-sectional shape is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 7, two flanges are provided for each pipe.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 7 , the closed cross-sectional shape of the transmission member 112 includes a first flange 112f1 and a second flange 112f2. The closed cross-sectional shape includes a convex side portion 112I that protrudes toward the cabin and a flat side portion 112T that faces the outside of the vehicle. A groove portion 112g is formed in the center of the convex side portion 112I, recessed toward the outside of the vehicle (inside the closed cross-section in the example of FIG. 7 ). Forming the groove portion 112g in the center of the convex side portion 112I allows for the formation of at least two convex portions compared to a case where the groove portion 112g is not present. This convex side portion also functions as a hollow flange, making it less likely to deform in the event of an external collision.

[0074] The groove 112g is formed in the center of the protruding side 112I because it is less likely to deform when subjected to an external collision than when there is no groove 112g.

[0075] One end of each of the convex side portion 112I and the flat side portion 112T is connected to a first flange 112f1. The other end of each of the convex side portion 112I and the flat side portion 112T is connected to a second flange 112f2. The first flange 112f1 and the second flange 112f2 are provided to increase the rigidity of the pipe material itself. Here, the first flange 112f1 and the second flange 112f2 are provided because they make the pipe less likely to deform when a load is applied from left to right.

[0076] The cross-sectional shape of the transmission member 112 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0077] Additionally, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 112T as described above.

[0078] (Side Frame 113) Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d13, showing an example of the left side frame 113. The cross-sectional shape is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 8, two flanges are provided for each pipe.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 8, the closed cross-sectional shape of the side frame 113 includes a first flange 113f1 and a second flange 113f2. The closed cross-sectional shape includes a protruding edge portion 113I that protrudes toward the cabin and a flat edge portion 113T that faces the outside of the vehicle. A groove portion 113g that is recessed toward the outside of the vehicle (in the example of Fig. 8 ) is formed in the center of the protruding edge portion 113I.

[0080] The groove 113g is formed in the center of the protruding side 113I because it makes deformation less likely than if there was no groove 113g.

[0081] One end of each of the convex side portion 113I and the flat side portion 113T is connected to a first flange 113f1. The other end of each of the convex side portion 113I and the flat side portion 113T is connected to a second flange 113f2. The first flange 113f1 and the second flange 113f2 are provided to increase rigidity against loads from the front.

[0082] The cross-sectional shape of the side frame 113 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0083] Further, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 113T as described above.

[0084] (Joined member 114) Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d14, showing an example of the left-hand joined member 114. The cross-sectional shape is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 9, two flanges are provided for each pipe. The joined member 114 has the function of distributing a load from the front to the front pillar 101 side and the transmission member 112 side. Furthermore, the joined member 114 has a first flange 114f1 and a second flange 114f2 for attaching a door hinge.

[0085] 9, the closed cross-sectional shape of the workpiece 114 includes a first flange 114f1 and a second flange 114f2. The closed cross-sectional shape includes a protruding edge 114I that protrudes toward the cabin and a flat edge 114T that faces the outside of the vehicle. A groove 114g is formed in the center of the protruding edge 114I, recessed toward the outside of the vehicle (inside the closed cross section in the example of FIG. 9).

[0086] The groove 114g is formed in the center of the protruding side 114I because it makes the protruding side 114I less susceptible to deformation due to an external collision than when there is no groove 114g.

[0087] One end of each of the protruding side portion 114I and the flat side portion 114T is connected to a first flange 114f1. The other end of each of the protruding side portion 114I and the flat side portion 114T is connected to a second flange 114f2. Door hinges are attached to the first flange 114f1 and the second flange 114f2.

[0088] The cross-sectional shape of the workpieces 114 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0089] Additionally, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 114T as described above.

[0090] (Front Frame 115) Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d15, showing an example of the front frame 115. The cross-sectional shape is formed so as to include at least one flange from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 10, one flange is provided.

[0091] Here, the reason why one flange is provided is to join a panel that supports the bonnet.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 10, the closed cross-sectional shape of the front frame 115 includes a flange 115f, a protruding side portion 115I that protrudes toward the cabin, and a protruding side portion 115T that protrudes toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0093] One end of each of the protruding side portions 115I and 115T is connected to the flange 115f, and the other end of each of the protruding side portions 115I and 115T is connected to each other.

[0094] The cross-sectional shape of the front frame 115 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0095] Alternatively, flanges may be provided on the other end sides of the protruding side portions 115I and 115T, and the outer panel may be joined to the protruding side portion 115T as described above.

[0096] (Front Bumper 118 and Rear Bumper 119) Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the positions and cross-sectional views of the front bumper 118 and rear bumper 119. As shown in Fig. 11, the front bumper 118 and rear bumper 119 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center C of the vehicle structure.

[0097] 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d18, showing an example of a front bumper 118. The cross-sectional shape is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe. In the example shown in FIG. 12, two flanges are provided.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 12, the closed cross-sectional shape of the front bumper 118 includes a first flange 118f1, a first flange 118f2, a convex side portion 118I that protrudes toward the cabin, and a flat side portion 118T that faces toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0099] The length of the flat side portion 118T is L. For example, L is 90 mm.

[0100] One end of each of the protruding side portion 118I and the flat side portion 118T is connected to a first flange 118f1. The other end of each of the protruding side portion 118I and the flat side portion 118T is connected to a first flange 118f2. The first flanges 118f1 and 118f2 are provided to ensure the rigidity of the member.

[0101] The cross-sectional shape of the front bumper 118 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0102] Also, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 118T as described above.

[0103] 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d19, showing an example of a rear bumper 119. The cross-sectional shape is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe. In the example shown in FIG. 13, two flanges are provided.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 13, the closed cross-sectional shape of the rear bumper 119 includes a first flange 119f1, a second flange 119f2, a convex side portion 119I that protrudes toward the cabin, and a flat side portion 119T that faces toward the outside of the vehicle.

[0105] One end of each of the protruding side portion 119I and the flat side portion 119T is connected to a flange 119f1. The other end of each of the protruding side portion 119I and the flat side portion 119T is connected to a second flange 119f2. The first flange 119f1 and the second flange 119f2 are provided to ensure the rigidity of the rear bumper 119.

[0106] The cross-sectional shape of the rear bumper 119 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the closed cross-sectional effect.

[0107] Also, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 119T as described above.

[0108] (Floor Center Frame 120) Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line d20, showing an example of a door beam (particularly a rear door beam) 120. The cross-sectional shape is formed so that at least one flange is provided from one pipe. In the example shown in Figure 14, two flanges are provided for each pipe. The door beam 120 shown in Figure 14 is a rear door beam, but the front door beam has a similar configuration, so its description will be omitted.

[0109] As shown in Fig. 14, the closed cross-sectional shape of the door beam 120 includes a first flange 120f1 and a second flange 120f2. The closed cross-sectional shape includes a convex side portion 120I that protrudes toward the cabin and a flat side portion 120T that faces outward. A groove portion 120g that is recessed toward the outside of the vehicle (in the example of Fig. 14 ) is formed in the center of the convex side portion 120I.

[0110] The groove 120g is formed in the center of the protruding side 120I because it makes the protruding side 120I less susceptible to deformation due to an external collision than when there is no groove 120g.

[0111] One end of each of the protruding side portion 120I and the flat side portion 120T is connected to a first flange 120f1. The other end of each of the protruding side portion 120I and the flat side portion 120T is connected to a second flange 120f2. The first flange 120f1 and the second flange 120f2 are joined to the door panel.

[0112] The cross-sectional shape of the door beam 120 is formed so as to have at least one flange from one pipe, thereby achieving the above-mentioned closed cross-section effect.

[0113] Additionally, an outer panel may be joined to the flat side portion 120T as described above.

[0114] <Function> When a vehicle equipped with the above vehicle structure collides head-on with another object, the load caused by the collision is transmitted to the side sill 105 via the front bumper 118 and the side frame 113. The load is also transmitted in a dispersed manner via the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 (see also FIG. 1B ) to the roof side by the front pillar 101 and to the side sill 105 via the transmission member 112.

[0115] <Effects> As described above, in this embodiment, the front pillar 101 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) to the floor center frame 120 (FIG. 14) are manufactured from a single pipe, and the cross-sectional shape of the front pillar 101 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) to the floor center frame 120 (FIG. 14) is a continuous closed cross-sectional shape. This minimizes the circumferential length of each of the front pillar 101 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) to the floor center frame 120 (FIG. 14), increasing the degree of freedom of the cabin space. In other words, the cabin can be made into an open space.

[0116] In this embodiment, in addition to the side frame 113 joined to the side sill 105, the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 is positioned forward of the cabin, and a transmission member 112 is provided to transmit a load applied to the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 to the side sill 105. Therefore, when the vehicle collides head-on with another object, there are three transmission routes for the load on each of the left and right sides. The first route is a route from the side frame 113 to the side sill 105. The second route is a route from the front end 101t of the front pillar 101 to the roof side. The third route is a route from the front pillar 101 to the side sill 105 via the transmission member 112. As described above, in this embodiment, the load is transmitted via three routes on each of the left and right sides, thereby improving crashworthiness compared to the prior art. In this embodiment, crashworthiness can be improved compared to the prior art, even in a small overlap collision.

[0117] This embodiment includes a joined member 114 joined between the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112. Therefore, this embodiment can reinforce both the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112 when the load is distributed and transmitted to the roof side via the front pillar 101 and to the side sill 105 via the transmission member 112. The joined member 114 is located behind the front tire, and the front pillar 101, the transmission member 112, and the joined member 114 form a triangular structure. Therefore, this embodiment can improve the rigidity behind the front tire, which has previously been reduced in rigidity. This connects the suspension and body, enabling the vehicle to travel as one.

[0118] In this embodiment, the position where the width of the front pillar 101 begins to increase is the rear end Pw of the front window area (or a position rearward of the end Pw) (see also FIG. 1B). This improves the visibility of the occupants. Also, the width of the front pillar 101 increases as it moves further rearward. This improves the impact resistance when the above-mentioned load is applied to the front pillar 101.

[0119] [Modifications] Each modification will be described below. Since each modification has substantially the same configuration as the above embodiment, only the differences will be described below, and a description of the similarities will be omitted. As with the embodiment, the left and right configurations of each of the following modifications are the same, so only the configuration of the left side will be described, and a description of the configuration of the right side will be omitted.

[0120] (First Modification and Second Modification) In the embodiment described above (see FIG. 1B), the tip Pe (i.e., the front end) of the transmission member 112 is joined to the front pillar 101. The technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0121] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of a front pillar 101 and a transmission member 112 in a vehicle structure 1 of a first modified example. In the first modified example, as shown in Fig. 15, a tip (Pf) of the front pillar 101 is joined to the transmission member 112. A tip 112t of the transmission member 112 is located forward of the cabin (the rear end of the engine compartment). The tip 112t is located above (or forward of) the position of a damper housing for a front tire (not shown).

[0122] 16 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the front pillar 101 and the transmission member 112 in the vehicle structure 1 of the second modified example. In the second modified example, as shown in FIG. 16, the tip 101t of the front pillar 101 and the tip 112t of the transmission member 112 are joined together.

[0123] (Third to Sixth Modifications) In the above-described embodiment, the front pillar 101 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) to the floor center frame 120 (FIG. 14) are manufactured from a single pipe, and the cross-sectional shapes of the front pillar 101 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) to the floor center frame 120 (FIG. 14) are continuous closed cross-sectional shapes. The technology of the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0124] The following description will be given taking the front portion of the front pillar 101 as an example, but the same applies to the rear portion of the front pillar 101 (FIG. 3) through the floor center frame 120 (FIG. 14).

[0125] 17 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of a left front pillar 101H3 of the third modified example. As shown in FIG. 17, the left front pillar 101H3 of the third modified example is manufactured by bending a single plate material so as to have a first flange 101Ff1, a second flange 101Ff2, a first bent side portion 101F1, and a second bent side portion 101F2. The cross-sectional shape of the front pillar 101H3 is a discontinuous closed cross-sectional (hollow) shape. The first flange 101Ff1 of the front pillar 101H3 is formed by joining end portions 101Ff1-1 and 101Ff1-2 of a single plate material.

[0126] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of the left front pillar 101H4 of the fourth modified example. As shown in Fig. 18, the left front pillar 101H4 of the fourth modified example is manufactured by bending two plate materials so as to have a first flange 101Ff1, a second flange 101Ff2, a first bent side portion 101F1, and a second bent side portion 101F2.

[0127] The cross-sectional shape of the front pillar 101H4 is a discontinuous closed cross-sectional (hollow) shape. In the front pillar 101H4, a first flange 101Ff1 is formed by joining one end 101Ff1-1 of one plate material to one end 101Ff1-2 of the other plate material. In the front pillar 101H4, a second flange 101Ff2 is formed by joining the other end 101Ff2-1 of one plate material to the other end 101Ff2-2 of the other plate material.

[0128] 19 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of a left front pillar 101H according to a fifth modified example. As shown in FIG. 19, the front pillar 101H5 according to the fifth modified example is formed of a bent plate material, specifically, only a first bent side portion 101F1. The thickness of the front pillar 101H5 is greater than the thickness of the first bent side portion 101F1.

[0129] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the front portion of the left front pillar 101 of the sixth modified example. As shown in Fig. 20, the front pillar 101H6 of the sixth modified example is formed of a bent plate material, specifically, only the second bent side portion 101F2. The thickness of the front pillar 101H6 is thicker than the thickness of the second bent side portion 101F2.

[0130] In light of the above disclosure, the following remarks are proposed:

[0131] (Supplementary Note 1) A front pillar formed of a single member, wherein a front end of the front pillar is located forward of a cabin.

[0132] (Supplementary Note 2) The front pillar according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the front end of the front pillar is located above or forward of a position of a damper housing for a front tire.

[0133] (Supplementary Note 3) The front pillar according to Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located rearward of a front window.

[0134] (Supplementary Note 4) The front pillar according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a center pillar.

[0135] (Supplementary Note 5) The front pillar according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a rear pillar.

[0136] (Supplementary Note 6) The front pillar according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5, wherein the width of the front pillar increases as it moves rearward.

[0137] (Supplementary Note 7) A pipe member formed from a single member, wherein a front end of the pipe member is located forward of a cabin.

[0138] (Supplementary Note 8) A front pillar formed of a single member, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located rearward of a front widow area, and a width of the front pillar becomes wider as it is located further rearward.

[0139] (Supplementary Note 9) The front pillar according to Supplementary Note 8, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a center pillar.

[0140] (Supplementary Note 10) The front pillar according to Supplementary Note 8 or Supplementary Note 9, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a rear pillar.

[0141] (Supplementary Note 11) The front pillar according to any one of Supplementary Notes 8 to 10, wherein the position where the width of the front pillar starts to increase is at a rear end of a front window area or a position rearward of the rear end.

[0142] (Supplementary Note 12) The front pillar according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 11, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the member is a closed (hollow) cross-sectional shape.

[0143] (Supplementary Note 13) The front pillar according to Supplementary Note 12, wherein the closed cross-sectional shape is formed so as to include at least one flange from one pipe.

[0144] (Supplementary Note 14) A pipe member formed from a single member, wherein a rear end of the pipe member is located rearward of a front widow area, and a width of the pipe member increases as the rearward position increases.

[0145] (Appendix 15) A vehicle structure comprising: a front pillar; and a side sill; a leading end portion of one of the front pillar and the side sill is joined to the other; and the vehicle structure comprises a transmission member that transmits a load applied to the leading end portion of the other to the side sill.

[0146] (Supplementary Note 16) The vehicle structure according to Supplementary Note 15, further comprising a member to be joined between the front pillar and the transmission member.

[0147] (Supplementary Note 17) The vehicle structure according to Supplementary Note 15 or Supplementary Note 16, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the front pillar is a closed cross-sectional shape.

[0148] (Supplementary Note 18) The vehicle structure according to Supplementary Note 17, wherein the closed cross-sectional shape is formed to include at least one flange from one pipe.

[0149] (Supplementary Note 19) A vehicle structure comprising: a pipe member; and a side sill, wherein a tip end of one of the pipe member and the side sill is joined to the other, and the vehicle structure comprises a transmission member that transmits a load applied to the tip end of the other to the side sill.

[0150] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 vehicle structure 101 front pillar 150 center pillar 110 rear pillar 105 side sill 101t front end 112 transmission member 114 joined member

Claims

1. A front pillar formed from a single member, wherein a front end of the front pillar is located forward of a cabin.

2. A front pillar according to claim 1, wherein the front end of the front pillar is located above or forward of the position of a damper housing for a front tire.

3. A front pillar according to claim 1, wherein the rear end of the front pillar is located rearward of the front window.

4. The front pillar according to claim 1, wherein the rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a center pillar.

5. The front pillar according to claim 1, wherein the rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a rear pillar.

6. The front pillar according to claim 1, wherein the width of the front pillar increases as it moves rearward.

7. A pipe member formed from a single member, wherein the front end of the pipe member is located forward of the cabin.

8. A front pillar formed from a single member, wherein a rear end of the front pillar is located rearward of a front window area, and the width of the front pillar becomes wider as it is positioned further rearward.

9. The front pillar according to claim 8, wherein the rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with a center pillar.

10. The front pillar according to claim 8, wherein the rear end of the front pillar is located at a connection point with the rear pillar.

11. A front pillar according to claim 8, wherein the position where the width of the front pillar starts to increase is at the rear end of the front window area or at a position rearward of said end.

12. A front pillar according to claim 1 or claim 8, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the member is a closed cross-sectional shape.

13. The front pillar according to claim 12, wherein the closed cross-sectional shape is formed to have at least one flange from one pipe.

14. A pipe member formed from a single member, wherein the rear end of the pipe member is located rearward of the front widow area, and the width of the pipe member becomes wider as it is positioned further rearward.

15. A vehicle structure comprising: a front pillar; and a side sill; wherein a tip end of one of the front pillar and the side sill is joined to the other; and the vehicle structure comprises a transmission member that transmits a load applied to the tip end of the other to the side sill.

16. The vehicle structure according to claim 15, further comprising a member to be joined between the front pillar and the transmission member.

17. The vehicle structure according to claim 15, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the front pillar is a closed cross-sectional shape.

18. The vehicle structure according to claim 17, wherein the closed cross-sectional shape is formed from one pipe to have at least one flange.

19. A vehicle structure comprising: a pipe member; and a side sill, wherein a tip end of one of the pipe member and the side sill is joined to the other, and the vehicle structure comprises a transmission member that transmits a load applied to the tip end of the other to the side sill.

Images