Shift device

Abstract

This shift device comprises: an operating lever that can be swung in a first pivoting direction and a second pivoting direction intersecting the first pivoting direction; a first drive unit and a second drive unit that operate together with a base portion of the operating lever; a first transmission unit that engages with the first drive unit and operates so as to follow the swinging operation of the operating lever in the first pivoting direction; a first rotating body that pivots so as to follow the first transmission unit; a first detecting unit that detects the rotation of the first rotating body; a second transmission unit that engages with the second drive unit and operates so as to follow the swinging operation of the operating lever in the second pivoting direction; a second rotating body that pivots so as to follow the second transmission unit; and a second detecting unit that detects the rotation of the second rotating body. The first drive unit and the second drive unit are provided on the same member that constitutes at least a part of the base portion of the operating lever or that is attached to the base portion of the operating lever.

Description

Shift device

[0001] The present invention relates to a shifting device.

[0002] Conventionally, vehicles such as automobiles use a lever-type shift device that is located behind the steering wheel. The driver of the vehicle can operate an electronic shifter installed in the vehicle by operating the lever-type shift device.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a lever switch that includes a lever that can be swung forward and backward and left and right, a first rotating body that rotates when the lever is swung forward and backward, and a second rotating body that rotates when the lever is swung left and right, and is configured to detect the swinging operation of the lever by detecting the first rotating body and the second rotating body with a magnetic detection element.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-218067

[0005] However, the technology of Patent Document 1 employs a configuration in which the first rotor is driven by an inner lever provided separately from the outer lever, while the second rotor is driven via two drivers provided separately from the outer lever. In other words, the technology of Patent Document 1 requires the outer lever to be provided with separate members for driving the first rotor and the second rotor. Therefore, the technology of Patent Document 1 is prone to variations in positional accuracy between the drive positions of the first rotor and the second rotor, which may reduce the accuracy of detecting the swing operation of the lever.

[0006] A shift device according to one embodiment includes an operating lever that can be swung in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction that intersects the first rotation direction, a first drive unit and a second drive unit that operate together with the base of the operating lever, a first transmission unit that engages with the first drive unit and operates in response to the swinging operation of the operating lever in the first rotation direction, a first rotating body that rotates in response to the first transmission unit, a first detection unit that detects the rotation of the first rotating body, a second transmission unit that engages with the second drive unit and operates in response to the swinging operation of the operating lever in the second rotation direction, a second rotating body that rotates in response to the second transmission unit, and a second detection unit that detects the rotation of the second rotating body, and the first drive unit and the second drive unit are provided on the same member that forms at least a part of the base of the operating lever or is attached to the base of the operating lever.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the shift device, it is possible to improve the accuracy of detecting the pivoting operation of the operating lever.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of a shift device according to one embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an installation example of a shift device according to one embodiment; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exterior of a shift device according to one embodiment; FIG. 4 is a plan view of the configuration of a shift device according to one embodiment; FIG. 5 is a side view of the configuration of a shift device according to one embodiment;

[0009] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. For convenience, in the following description, in the shift device 100 shown in FIGS. 1, 3 to 11, and 13, the X-axis direction in the drawings is the front-to-rear direction, the Y-axis direction in the drawings is the left-to-right direction, and the Z-axis direction in the drawings is the up-to-down direction. However, the positive X-axis direction is the forward direction, the positive Y-axis direction is the rightward direction, and the positive Z-axis direction is the upward direction. Also, in the steering device 10 shown in FIG. 2, the X'-axis direction in the drawings is the front-to-rear direction, the Y'-axis direction in the drawings is the left-to-right direction, and the Z'-axis direction in the drawings is the up-to-down direction. However, the positive X'-axis direction is the forward direction, the positive Y'-axis direction is the rightward direction, and the positive Z'-axis direction is the upward direction. These directions indicate relative positional relationships within the device and do not limit the installation direction or operation direction of the device. Devices with the same relative positional relationships within the device, even if they have different installation directions or operation directions, are all within the scope of the present invention.

[0010] (Overview of Shift Device 100) Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of a shift device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the shift device 100 includes a main body 110 and an operating lever 120.

[0011] Main body 110 has a box-like (approximately rectangular parallelepiped) outer shape. Main body 110 is fixed to a predetermined installation location where shift device 100 is installed. Main body 110 supports base 120A of operating lever 120 inside thereof so that the base 120A can swing.

[0012] The operating lever 120 is a lever-shaped portion that penetrates a first side surface portion 111A on the Y-axis positive side of the housing 111 of the main body 110 and extends in a substantially straight line outward from the first side surface portion 111A (to the right (Y-axis positive direction) and diagonally upward (Z-axis positive direction)). The operating lever 120 has a base portion 120A that is supported inside the main body 110 so that it can swing. This allows the operating lever 120 to be moved upward (Z-axis positive direction, D1 in the figure), downward (Z-axis negative direction, D2 in the figure), forward (X-axis positive direction, D4 in the figure), and backward (X-axis negative direction, D3 in the figure).

[0013] A pushable switch 121 is provided at the tip of the operating lever 120 .

[0014] In this embodiment, the switch 121 is one that automatically returns from a pressed state to a non-pressed state when the pressing operation is released. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the switch 121 may be one that maintains the pressed state even when the pressing operation is released and is manually switched from the pressed state to the non-pressed state. Alternatively, the switch 121 may be one that can be slid. Alternatively, an electrostatic sensor may be used as the switch 121.

[0015] (Installation Example of Shift Device 100) Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an installation example of the shift device 100 according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 shows the appearance of the steering device 10 when the steering 11 is viewed from the driver's side of the vehicle in plan view.

[0016] The directions of the three axes (X'-axis, Y'-axis, Z'-axis) of the steering device 10 shown in Fig. 2 are different from the directions of the three axes (X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis) of the shift device 100 alone shown in Figs. 1, 3 to 11, and 13. Specifically, the steering device 10 is provided so that the top of the shift device 100 (positive Z-axis direction) is toward the rear of the steering device 10 (negative X'-axis direction) (i.e., so that the switch 122 faces toward the driver (negative X'-axis side)).

[0017] That is, an upward swing D1 of the operating lever 120 shown in Fig. 1 corresponds to a rearward swing (negative direction of the X' axis) in the steering device 10 shown in Fig. 2. A downward swing D2 of the operating lever 120 shown in Fig. 1 corresponds to a forward swing (positive direction of the X' axis) in the steering device 10 shown in Fig. 2. A forward swing D4 of the operating lever 120 shown in Fig. 1 corresponds to an upward swing (positive direction of the Z' axis) in the steering device 10 shown in Fig. 2. A rearward swing D3 of the operating lever 120 shown in Fig. 1 corresponds to a downward swing (negative direction of the Z' axis) in the steering device 10 shown in Fig. 2.

[0018] The steering device 10 shown in Fig. 2 is provided in front of the driver's seat of the vehicle and is operated by the driver of the vehicle. As shown in Fig. 2, the steering device 10 includes a steering wheel 11, a steering column 12, a vehicle lever operating device 13, and a shift device 100.

[0019] The steering wheel 11 has a rim 11A, a hub 11B, and a plurality of spokes 11C.

[0020] The rim 11A has an annular shape that forms the outer periphery of the steering wheel 11. The rim 11A is a portion that is gripped by the operator's hands when the steering wheel 11 is rotated (i.e., when the steering wheel is operated).

[0021] The hub 11B is provided in the center of the steering wheel 11. The hub 11B is a part that is fixed to the end of a steering shaft (not shown) of the vehicle.

[0022] Each of the spokes 11C extends in a straight line radially outward from the hub 11B and is connected to the rim 11A to support the rim 11A.

[0023] The steering column 12 is provided behind the hub 11B of the steering wheel 11 and is a component that houses a steering shaft (not shown). As viewed from the driver of the vehicle, an operating lever 120 of the shift device 100 is provided extending in a straight line obliquely upward to the right from a right side surface portion 12A of the steering column 12. Furthermore, as viewed from the driver of the vehicle, a vehicle lever operating device 13 is provided extending in a straight line obliquely upward to the left from a left side surface portion 12B of the steering column 12.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the shift device 100 is provided on the back side of the steering wheel 11, with the main body 110 incorporated and fixed inside the steering column 12, and the operating lever 120 provided on the back side of the steering wheel 11 so as to penetrate the side surface 12A of the steering column 12 and extend in a straight line toward the side of the side surface 12A.

[0025] The shift device 100 is electrically connected to various control target devices equipped in the vehicle, and can control the operation of the various control target devices equipped in the vehicle by an operator operating a lever.

[0026] In this embodiment, the shift device 100 is provided on the steering column 12 , but this is not limiting, and the shift device 100 may be provided on the steering wheel 11 .

[0027] The vehicle lever operating device 13 has a shape that is generally symmetrical to the shift device 100. That is, the vehicle lever operating device 13 is provided on the back side of the steering wheel 11, with a main body 13A incorporated and fixed inside the steering column 12, and an operating lever 13B provided on the back side of the steering wheel 11 so as to penetrate a side surface 12B of the steering column 12 and extend linearly to the side of the side surface 12B. The vehicle lever operating device 13 is electrically connected to various control target devices provided in the vehicle, and when the operator operates the lever, it is possible to control the operation of the various control target devices provided in the vehicle (however, different from the control target devices controlled by the shift device 100).

[0028] (Configuration of shift device 100) Fig. 3 is an external perspective view showing the configuration of the shift device 100 according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the shift device 100 according to one embodiment. Fig. 5 is a side view showing the configuration of the shift device 100 according to one embodiment. Note that a housing 111 of a main body 110 of the shift device 100 is configured to be separable into two parts, an upper part and an lower part, and in Figs. 3 to 5, the upper part of the housing 111 is not shown to show the internal configuration of the housing 111.

[0029] 3 to 5, the main body 110 of the shift device 100 has a hollow resin box-shaped (substantially rectangular parallelepiped) housing 111. An opening 111B is formed in a first side surface portion 111A on the Y-axis positive side of the housing 111.

[0030] The operating lever 120 of the shift device 100 is arranged to pass through an opening 111B in a first side portion 111A of the housing 111 so that the base portion 120A, which is the end side (negative side of the Y axis), is positioned inside the housing 111.

[0031] The base 120A of the operating lever 120 has a generally rectangular columnar shape that extends linearly in the Y-axis direction. As shown in Figures 3 to 5, the base 120A of the operating lever 120 is parallel to the Y-axis when the operating lever 120 is not being operated.

[0032] 3 to 5, operating lever 120 is supported rotatably about a first rotation shaft 123 that is provided parallel to the X-axis inside housing 111. By rotating operating lever 120 about first rotation shaft 123, operating portion 120B, which is the tip end (positive side of the Y-axis), can swing upward (positive direction of the Z-axis) and downward (negative direction of the Z-axis).

[0033] 4, the operating lever 120 is supported so as to be rotatable about a second rotation shaft 124 that is provided parallel to the Z axis inside the housing 111. By rotating the operating lever 120 about the second rotation shaft 124, the operating part 120B can swing forward (positive direction of the X axis) and backward (positive direction of the X axis).

[0034] The shift device 100 also includes a restricting unit 200 inside the housing 111. The restricting unit 200 includes a restricting member 210 provided opposite the base 120A of the operating lever 120, and an actuator 220 provided protruding from the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The restricting member 210 is provided on the negative side of the base 120A of the operating lever 120 along the Y axis, opposite the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The restricting member 210 is a block-shaped member made of resin, and is fixed to a cover 140 (see FIGS. 3 to 5 ) provided inside the housing 111. The restricting unit 200 guides the movement of the operating lever 120 in a predetermined direction (i.e., an unrestricted direction) by the restricting member 210 and the actuator 220 engaging with each other. In the restricting unit 200, the restricting member 210 and the actuator 220 engage with each other. The detailed configuration of the restricting portion 200 will be described later with reference to FIG. 10 and subsequent figures.

[0035] Additionally, shift device 100 includes detection mechanism 100A inside housing 111. Detection mechanism 100A detects a swing operation of operating lever 120 in the Z-axis direction (an example of a "first swing direction") and a swing operation of operating lever 120 in the X-axis direction (an example of a "second swing direction"). The detailed configuration of detection mechanism 100A will be described later with reference to FIG. 6 and subsequent figures.

[0036] (Detailed configuration of detection mechanism 100A) Fig. 6 is an external perspective view of detection mechanism 100A and operation lever 120 included in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, as viewed from the negative side of the X axis. Fig. 7 is an external perspective view of detection mechanism 100A and operation lever 120 included in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, as viewed from the positive side of the X axis. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional perspective view of detection mechanism 100A and operation lever 120 included in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, as viewed from the negative side of the X axis. Fig. 9 is a plan view of detection mechanism 100A and operation lever 120 included in shift device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0037] As shown in Figures 6 to 9, the detection mechanism 100A includes a support member 130, a first drive unit 131, a second drive unit 132, a first transmission unit 133, a first rotating body 134, a first magnetic sensor 135, a second transmission unit 136, a second rotating body 137, a second magnetic sensor 138, and a circuit board 139.

[0038] The support member 130 is a separate member from the base 120A of the operating lever 120 and is attached to the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The support member 130 is fixed to the base 120A of the operating lever 120 by a snap-fit ​​structure. Specifically, the support member 130 has a rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the Y-axis direction. The support member 130 also has a pair of claws 130A that form a snap-fit ​​structure on its wall portion on the X-axis positive side and on the X-axis negative side. When the base 120A of the operating lever 120 is inserted into the cylindrical interior of the support member 130 from the negative side of the Y shape, the pair of claws 130A engage with the wall surface on the X-axis positive side and the wall surface on the X-axis negative side of the base 120A of the operating lever 120. In this way, the support member 130 is fixed to the base 120A of the operating lever 120.

[0039] As described above, in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, support member 130 can be easily attached to base 120A of operating lever 120 using a snap-fit ​​structure, and support member 130 can be fixed in an accurate position. Therefore, in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 provided on support member 130 can be easily and accurately positioned at predetermined positions on base 120A of operating lever 120.

[0040] Furthermore, since the size of the inner shape of the support member 130 is approximately the same as the size of the outer shape of the base 120A of the operating lever 120, the support member 130 is less likely to rattle when attached to the base 120A of the operating lever 120.

[0041] The first drive unit 131 is provided on the base 120A of the operating lever 120. Specifically, the first drive unit 131 is a protrusion that protrudes obliquely downward (negative Z-axis direction) and leftward (positive Y-axis direction) from the underside of the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The first drive unit 131 has a flat plate shape that is parallel to the ZY plane. When the operating lever 120 is swung in a first rotation direction (negative Z-axis direction) or a second rotation direction (positive X-axis direction), the first drive unit 131 rotates together with the base 120A of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction (negative Z-axis direction) or the second rotation direction (positive X-axis direction).

[0042] The second drive unit 132 is provided on the base 120A of the operating lever 120. Specifically, the second drive unit 132 is a protrusion that protrudes downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) from the underside of the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The second drive unit 132 has a flat plate shape that is parallel to the ZY plane. When the first drive unit 131 swings the operating lever 120 in a first rotation direction (Z-axis direction) or a second rotation direction (X-axis direction), the second drive unit 132 rotates together with the base 120A of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction (Z-axis direction) or the second rotation direction (X-axis direction).

[0043] In shift device 100 according to one embodiment, first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are integrally provided on a member separate from base 120A of operating lever 120. In particular, in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are integrally provided on support member 130, which is a member separate from base 120A of operating lever 120. Here, support member 130, on which first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are integrally provided, is an example of a single member on which the first drive unit and the second drive unit are attached to the base of the operating lever. In shift device 100 according to one embodiment, support member 130 is attached to base 120A of operating lever 120, thereby providing first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 on base 120A of operating lever 120. Here, "integrally provided on support member 130" means that first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are molded or manufactured integrally with support member 130 when support member 130 is manufactured (i.e., first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are not attached or assembled after support member 130 is manufactured). Also, in the case where first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are integrally provided on a member separate from base 120A in this way, base 120A here does not include the rotation shafts (first rotation shaft 123 and second rotation shaft 124) of operating lever 120, but refers to the portion distal to the rotation shafts of operating lever 120.

[0044] As a result, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can maintain a constant, highly accurate relative positional relationship between first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132. Therefore, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can improve the accuracy of detecting the pivoting operation of operating lever 120.

[0045] However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 may be provided directly and integrally with the base 120A of the operating lever 120. Furthermore, when the base 120A of the operating lever 120 is configured by combining a plurality of members, the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 may be provided integrally with a single member among the members that constitute the base 120A of the operating lever 120. Here, "provided integrally with a single member of the base 120A" means that the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are molded or manufactured integrally with the single member when the single member of the base 120A is manufactured (i.e., the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are not attached or assembled after the single member is manufactured). Furthermore, in the case where first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are integrally provided in a single member of base 120A, base 120A here does not include the rotation shafts (first rotation shaft 123 and second rotation shaft 124) of operating lever 120, but refers to the portion distal to the rotation shafts of operating lever 120. Here, base 120A integrally provided with first drive unit 131 or second drive unit 132, or the single member provided with first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 when base 120A is made up of multiple members, are examples of the first drive unit and the second drive unit being the same member that constitutes at least a part of the base of the operating lever.

[0046] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 can be formed easily and with high precision compared to when the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are integrally formed on the base 120A.

[0047] Furthermore, in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, first drive unit 131 is provided at a position (position on the negative side of the Y axis) farther from rotation axes 123, 124 (i.e., the rotation fulcrum) of operating lever 120 than second drive unit 132. As a result, when operating lever 120 is swung in the first rotation direction, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can ensure a sufficient movement distance of first drive unit 131 despite the small stroke amount of operating lever 120, that is, can sufficiently increase the amount of rotation of first rotating body 134, and therefore can more reliably detect the swing operation in the first rotation direction.

[0048] Furthermore, in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 are provided below base 120A of operating lever 120 (negative side of the Z axis) and above circuit board 139 (positive side of the Z axis), i.e., between base 120A of operating lever 120 and circuit board 139. As a result, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can accommodate first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 in the space between base 120A and circuit board 139, thereby achieving a compact detection mechanism 100A.

[0049] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, as shown in FIG. 9, when viewed from above (positive Z-axis direction), the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are arranged on the same straight line L1 together with the actuator 220 provided on the base 120A of the operating lever 120 and the pivot axes 123, 124 of the operating lever 120.

[0050] As a result, the shift device 100 of one embodiment can prevent unnecessary rotational moments from being applied to the base 120A and the support member 130 when the operating lever 120 is swung or automatically returned, and can also make it easier to adjust the operating load associated with the swinging operation of the operating lever 120.

[0051] The first transmission unit 133 engages with the first drive unit 131 and operates in response to a swing operation of the operating lever 120 in a first rotation direction (Z-axis direction). Specifically, the first transmission unit 133 is provided on the upper side (Z-axis positive side) of the circuit board 139 and on the lower side (Z-axis negative side) of the first drive unit 131. The first transmission unit 133 is supported by a cover 140 (see FIGS. 3 to 5 ) provided inside the housing 111 so as to be movable in the up-and-down direction (Z-axis direction). The first transmission unit 133 has an engagement groove 133B (an example of a "first relief portion") into which the first drive unit 131 fits. Then, when the operating lever 120 is swung in a first rotation direction (Z-axis direction) and the first drive unit 131 rotates in the first rotation direction (Z-axis direction), the first transmission unit 133 moves in the first rotation direction (Z-axis direction) together with the first drive unit 131.

[0052] Note that engagement groove 133B has an elongated hole shape that extends in a curved line along the rotation trajectory of first drive unit 131 in the X-axis direction. Therefore, engagement groove 133B does not interfere with the rotation of first drive unit 131 in the X-axis direction when operating lever 120 is pivoted in the front-to-rear direction (X-axis direction). As a result, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can achieve smooth operation of operating lever 120 when operating lever 120 is pivoted in the second rotation direction.

[0053] The first rotating body 134 rotates in accordance with the first transmission unit 133. Specifically, the first rotating body 134 is a substantially cylindrical member that rotates around a rotation axis 134X that is parallel to the Z axis as the center of rotation. The first rotating body 134 is supported on the circuit board 139 and inside the cover 140 (see FIGS. 3 to 5 ) by a shaft (not shown) that is provided integrally with the cover 140 so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis 134X.

[0054] The first rotor 134 has a spiral slope 134A on its outer circumferential surface. A protrusion 133A provided on the first transmission unit 133 abuts against the upper surface of the slope 134A. When the operating lever 120 is swung upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) and the first transmission unit 133 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis), the upper surface of the slope 134A is pressed by the protrusion 133A, generating a rotational force of the first rotor 134. Therefore, the first rotor 134 rotates around the rotation axis 134X in response to the downward movement of the first transmission unit 133 (in the negative direction of the Z axis). A magnet 134B is provided on the bottom of the first rotor 134, facing the first magnetic sensor 135.

[0055] The second transmission unit 136 engages with the second drive unit 132 and operates in response to the swing operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction). Specifically, the second transmission unit 136 is provided on the upper side (positive side of the Z-axis) of the circuit board 139 and on the lower side (negative side of the Z-axis) of the second drive unit 132. When viewed from above (positive direction of the Z-axis), the second transmission unit 136 is a member having a substantially fan shape. The second transmission unit 136 is supported inside the cover 140 (see FIGS. 3 to 5 ) by a shaft (not shown) that is integral with the cover 140 so as to be rotatable around a rotation axis 136X that is parallel to the Z-axis. The second transmission part 136 has a through-hole 136B (an example of a "second relief part") provided below the second drive part 132 (negative side of the Z axis), and the second drive part 132 is inserted into the through-hole 136B. When the operating lever 120 is swung in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction) and the second drive part 132 rotates in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction), the second transmission part 136 rotates together with the second drive part 132 in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction).

[0056] The through-hole 136B has an elongated hole shape that extends linearly in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). Therefore, the through-hole 136B does not impede the movement of the second drive unit 132 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) when the operation lever 120 is pivoted in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). As a result, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment can achieve smooth operation of the operation lever 120 when the operation lever 120 is pivoted in the first rotation direction.

[0057] The second rotating body 137 rotates in accordance with the second transmission unit 136. Specifically, the second rotating body 137 is a gear-shaped member that rotates around a rotation axis 137X parallel to the Z axis as the center of rotation. The second rotating body 137 is supported on the circuit board 139 and inside the cover 140 (see FIGS. 3 to 5 ) by a shaft (not shown) that is integral with the cover 140 so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis 137X. Teeth 137A provided on the outer periphery of the second rotating body 137 mesh with teeth 136A provided on the outer periphery of the second transmission unit 136. As a result, when the operating lever 120 is swung in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction) and the second transmission unit 136 rotates in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction), the second rotating body 137 is driven by the second transmission unit 136 to rotate about the rotation axis 137X. A magnet 137B is provided on the bottom of the second rotating body 137, facing the second magnetic sensor 138.

[0058] The circuit board 139 is a flat, resin-made member parallel to the XY plane. The circuit board 139 is provided near the bottom inside the housing 111, below the base 120A of the operating lever 120 (in the negative direction of the Z axis) and facing the base 120A of the operating lever 120. Inside the housing 111, the circuit board 139 (as well as the first rotating body 134, the first magnetic sensor 135, the second rotating body 137, and the second magnetic sensor 138) are entirely covered by a cover 140 (see FIGS. 3 to 5), but the cover 140 is not shown in FIGS. 6 to 9.

[0059] The first magnetic sensor 135 is an example of a "first detection unit." The first magnetic sensor 135 is mounted on the rotation axis 134X of the first rotating body 134 on the upper surface of the circuit board 139. The first magnetic sensor 135 is provided facing the magnet 134B provided on the bottom of the first rotating body 134. As a result, when the operating lever 120 is swung in the first rotation direction (Z-axis direction), the first magnetic sensor 135 detects a change in the magnetic field around the first magnetic sensor 135 that accompanies the rotation of the first rotating body 134 as the rotation of the first rotating body 134.

[0060] The second magnetic sensor 138 is an example of a "second detection unit." The second magnetic sensor 138 is mounted on the rotation axis 137X of the second rotating body 137 on the upper surface of the circuit board 139. The second magnetic sensor 138 is provided facing the magnet 137B provided on the bottom of the second rotating body 137. As a result, when the operating lever 120 is swung in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction), the second magnetic sensor 138 can detect a change in the magnetic field around the second magnetic sensor 138 that occurs as the second rotating body 137 rotates, as the rotation of the second rotating body 137.

[0061] In this embodiment, the detection mechanism 100A has two second magnetic sensors 138 arranged side by side on the rotation axis 137X of the second rotating body 137. As a result, even if one of the second magnetic sensors 138 fails, the detection mechanism 100A can detect the rotation of the second rotating body 137 using the other second magnetic sensor 138. Therefore, the detection mechanism 100A can improve the reliability of detecting the rotation of the second rotating body 137.

[0062] (Detailed configuration of restriction portion 200) Fig. 10 is an external perspective view of restriction member 210 provided in restriction portion 200 according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 is an external perspective view of restriction member 210 and a part of actuator 220 provided in restriction portion 200 according to one embodiment.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the restricting portion 200 included in the shift device 100 is configured to include a restricting member 210 and an actuator 220 .

[0064] The restricting member 210 is a block-shaped member made of resin and provided opposite the end face on the Y-axis negative side of the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The restricting member 210 has a guide portion 211 on an opposing surface 210A that faces the base 120A of the operating lever 120. The guide portion 211 has a groove shape that is recessed from the opposing surface 210A toward the Y-axis negative side. The actuator 220 slides within the guide portion 211, thereby guiding the movement of the operating lever 120.

[0065] The actuator 220 is a resin member that protrudes from the end surface of the base 120A of the operating lever 120 on the negative side of the Y axis. The actuator 220 is provided inside the base 120A so as to be movable in the Y axis direction. The actuator 220 has a tapered shape and a curved tip. The actuator 220 is biased in the positive direction of the Y axis by a coil spring 128 (see FIG. 8 ) that is provided inside the base 120A. As a result, the tip of the actuator 220 fits into the guide portion 211 of the restricting member 210 and is pressed against the bottom surface of the guide portion 211 of the restricting member 210.

[0066] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the guide portion 211 of the regulating member 210 has a T-shape consisting of a horizontal groove portion 212 that has a certain width and extends in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction), and a vertical groove portion 213 that has a certain width and extends upward (positive Z-axis direction) from the middle position of the horizontal groove portion 212.

[0067] The lateral groove portion 212 guides the movement of the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 in the X-axis direction by sliding the actuator 220 in the X-axis direction within the lateral groove portion 212, that is, guides the movement operation of the operating lever 120 in the X-axis direction.

[0068] In the shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the length of the lateral groove 212 in the X-axis direction is longer than the length of the vertical groove 213 in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, in the shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the rotation angle of the operation lever 120 in the first rotation direction (Z-axis direction) is restricted to be smaller than the rotation angle in the second rotation direction (X-axis direction). As a result, in the shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the stroke amount of the pivoting operation of the operation lever 120 in the first rotation direction can be made smaller than the stroke amount of the pivoting operation of the operation lever 120 in the second rotation direction. As a result, when the shift device 100 according to one embodiment is provided in the steering device 10 as shown in FIG. 2 , the rotation angle of the operation lever 120 in the first rotation direction (X'-axis direction shown in FIG. 2 ) can be restricted so that the operation lever 120 does not abut against the steering wheel 11 when the operation lever 120 is pivoted in the first rotation direction (X'-axis direction shown in FIG. 2 ).

[0069] Here, the depth of the lateral groove 212 is shallowest at both ends in the X-axis direction and deepest at the intermediate position in the X-axis direction. As a result, the bottom surface 212E of the lateral groove 212 is inclined toward the positive direction of the Y-axis from both ends in the X-axis direction to the intermediate position. Therefore, when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 is in the lateral groove 212, the actuator 220 is pressed against the bottom surface 212E of the lateral groove 212 by the biasing force of the coil spring 128 and slides down within the lateral groove 212 to the intermediate position of the lateral groove 212. As a result, the operating lever 120 automatically returns to its neutral position in the X-axis direction when not being operated.

[0070] Furthermore, the vertical groove 213 is shallowest at its lower end in the Z-axis direction (i.e., the middle position of the horizontal groove 212) and deepest at its upper end in the Z-axis direction. As a result, the bottom surface 213E of the vertical groove 213 is inclined in the positive direction of the Y-axis from its lower end to its upper end. Therefore, when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 is in the vertical groove 213, the actuator 220 is pressed against the bottom surface 213E of the vertical groove 213 by the biasing force of the coil spring 128, and slides down within the vertical groove 213 to the upper end (home position) of the vertical groove 213. As a result, the operating lever 120 automatically returns to its neutral position in the Z-axis direction when not being operated.

[0071] With the above configuration, the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 can automatically return to the upper end (home position) of the vertical groove 213 by sliding within the guide portion 211, regardless of whether the actuator 220 is positioned in the horizontal groove 212 or the vertical groove 213. As a result, the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 can automatically return the operating lever 120 to its initial state before operation when the operating lever 120 is not being operated.

[0072] 11, when the operating lever 120 is not operated, the actuator 220 is stationary and positioned at the upper end (home position) of the vertical groove 213. As a result, when the operating lever 120 is not operated, the operating lever 120 is in a neutral state parallel to the Y-axis, as shown in FIGS.

[0073] Furthermore, the angle of inclination of the upper end (home position) of the bottom surface 213E of the vertical groove 213 is steeper than the angle of inclination of the remaining portions. This allows the restricting portion 200 to impart a change in the operating feel when the actuator 220 of the operating lever 120 moves between the upper end (home position) of the vertical groove 213 and the remaining portions of the vertical groove 213. Therefore, the restricting portion 200 makes it easier for the operator to recognize that the operating lever 120 is in the home position.

[0074] (Configuration of Control System of Shift Device 100) Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the shift device 100 according to one embodiment. As shown in Fig. 12, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment includes a control unit 150 as a main controller of the control system.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 12 , the control unit 150 is electrically connected to the first magnetic sensor 135 and the second magnetic sensor 138 included in the shift device 100 .

[0076] As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 150 is electrically connected to an electronic shifter 21 provided in the vehicle.

[0077] (Example of Movement Operation of Operating Lever 120) FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a movement operation of operating lever 120 in shift device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0078] For example, as shown in FIG. 13, when the operating lever 120 is in the neutral state, the actuator 220 is located at the home position P0 of the guide portion 211.

[0079] When the operating lever 120 is swung upward (positive direction of the Z axis), which is the first rotation direction, the actuator 220 moves downward (negative direction of the Z axis) from the home position P0 along the guide part 211 and is positioned at position P1 of the guide part 211. This swung operation is detected by the first magnetic sensor 135 and is thereby sensed by the control part 150.

[0080] When the control unit 150 detects that the operating lever 120 has been pivoted upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis), it outputs a control signal indicating that the pivoting operation has been performed to the electronic shifter 21. This enables the electronic shifter 21 to perform a predetermined shifting operation (for example, a shifting operation to the N position) in accordance with the pivoting operation.

[0081] 13 , when the operating lever 120 is swung upward (positive direction of the Z axis), if the operating lever 120 is swung backward (negative direction of the X axis), which is the second rotation direction, the actuator 220 moves forward (positive direction of the X axis) from position P1 along the guide part 211 and is positioned at position P2 of the guide part 211. This swing operation is detected by the second magnetic sensor 138 and is thereby sensed by the control part 150.

[0082] When the control unit 150 detects that the operating lever 120 has been rocked backward (in the negative direction of the X-axis), it outputs a control signal indicating that the rocking operation has been performed to the electronic shifter 21. This allows the electronic shifter 21 to perform a predetermined shift operation (for example, a shift operation to the R position) in accordance with the rocking operation.

[0083] 13 , when the operating lever 120 is swung upward (positive direction of the Z axis), if the operating lever 120 is swung forward (positive direction of the X axis), which is the second rotation direction, the actuator 220 moves backward (negative direction of the X axis) from position P1 along the guide part 211 and is positioned at position P3 of the guide part 211. This swing operation is detected by the second magnetic sensor 138 and is thereby sensed by the control part 150.

[0084] When the control unit 150 detects that the operating lever 120 has been pivoted forward (in the positive direction of the X-axis), it outputs a control signal indicating that the pivoting operation has been performed to the electronic shifter 21. This allows the electronic shifter 21 to perform a predetermined shifting operation (for example, a shifting operation to the D position) in accordance with the pivoting operation.

[0085] When the control unit 150 detects a switch operation on the switch 122 by the operator's finger, the control unit 150 can execute a predetermined function.

[0086] (Effects) As described above, shift device 100 according to one embodiment includes operating lever 120 that can be operated to swing in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction that intersects with the first rotation direction, first drive unit 131 and second drive unit 132 that operate together with base 120A of operating lever 120, first transmission unit 133 that engages with first drive unit 131 and operates in response to the swing operation of operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction, first rotating body 134 that rotates in response to first transmission unit 133, and rotation of first rotating body 134. The operating lever 120 is provided with a first magnetic sensor 135 that detects rotation, a second transmission unit 136 that engages with the second drive unit 132 and operates in response to the swing operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction, a second rotating body 137 that rotates in response to the second transmission unit 136, and a second magnetic sensor 138 that detects the rotation of the second rotating body 137, and the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are provided on the same member that forms at least a part of the base of the operating lever 120 or is attached to the base 120A of the operating lever.

[0087] As a result, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can maintain a constant, highly accurate relative positional relationship between base 120A of operating lever 120, first drive unit 131, and second drive unit 132. Therefore, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can suppress variations in the detection accuracy between the swing operation of operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the swing operation of operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the swing operation of operating lever 120.

[0088] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the rocking operation of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the rocking operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction are detected by magnetic sensors 135, 138, which have a relatively narrow operating range, thereby making it possible to achieve space-saving configurations for detecting the rocking operations.

[0089] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the rocking operation of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the rocking operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction are detected by magnetic sensors 135, 138 that can detect rotation, so that relatively inexpensive sensors can be used to detect the rocking operations.

[0090] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the rocking operation of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the rocking operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction are detected by magnetic sensors 135, 138 that do not have sliding contacts, so that the detection signal of the rocking operation can be stabilized and the durability of the sensor for detecting the rocking operation can be increased.

[0091] In addition, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment is provided with a circuit board 139 that is arranged opposite the base 120A of the operating lever 120 and that has a first magnetic sensor 135 and a second magnetic sensor 138, and the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are provided between the base 120A and the circuit board 139.

[0092] As a result, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 can be accommodated within the space between the base 120A and the circuit board 139, thereby enabling the detection mechanism 100A to be made smaller.

[0093] Moreover, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment includes a support member 130 attached to the base portion 120A, and the same member is the support member 130.

[0094] As a result, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 can be formed easily and with high precision compared to when the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are formed integrally with the base 120A.

[0095] Furthermore, in the shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the support member 130 is attached to the base portion 120A by a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0096] As a result, in the shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the support member 130 can be easily attached to the base portion 120A, and the support member 130 can be fixed at an accurate position.

[0097] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first drive unit 131 is located farther from the rotation fulcrum of the operating lever 120 than the second drive unit 132 so that the effective rotation angle of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction is smaller than the effective rotation angle of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction.

[0098] As a result, in shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the stroke amount of the swing operation of operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction can be made smaller than the stroke amount of the swing operation of operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction. Furthermore, when operating lever 120 is swung in the first rotation direction, shift device 100 according to one embodiment can ensure a sufficient movement distance of first drive unit 131 despite the small stroke amount of operating lever 120, and therefore can more reliably detect the swing operation in the first rotation direction.

[0099] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first transmission part 133 has an engagement groove 133B that does not hinder the movement of the first drive part 131 when the operating lever 120 rotates in the second rotation direction, and the second transmission part 136 has a through hole 136B that does not hinder the movement of the second drive part 132 when the operating lever 120 rotates in the first rotation direction.

[0100] As a result, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment can achieve smooth operation of the operating lever 120 for both the swing operation of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the swing operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction.

[0101] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 are protrusions, the engagement groove 133B has an elongated hole shape that does not interfere with the movement of the first drive unit 131, and the through hole 136B has an elongated hole shape that does not interfere with the movement of the second drive unit 132.

[0102] As a result, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment can achieve smooth operation of the operating lever 120 for both the swing operation of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the swing operation of the operating lever 120 in the second rotation direction.

[0103] In addition, the shift device 100 according to one embodiment includes an actuator 220 provided on the base 120A of the operating lever 120, and a guide portion 211 that engages with the actuator 220 and guides the operating path of the operating lever 120, and when viewed from the first rotation direction, the actuator 220, the first drive portion 131, the second drive portion 132, and the rotation fulcrum of the operating lever 120 are arranged on the same straight line.

[0104] As a result, the shift device 100 of one embodiment makes it less likely that unnecessary rotational moments will be applied to the base 120A and the support member 130 when the operating lever 120 is swung or automatically returned, and also makes it easier to adjust the operating load associated with the swinging operation of the operating lever 120.

[0105] Furthermore, in the shift device 100 according to one embodiment, the actuator 220 automatically returns to a predetermined home position in the guide portion 211 when the operating force on the operating lever 120 is removed.

[0106] As a result, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the operating lever 120 is always in the initial state when the operating lever 120 is not being operated, making it easier for the operator to recognize the shift position of the operating lever 120, and therefore reducing the risk of erroneous operation of the operating lever 120.

[0107] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the guide portion 211 has a T-shape consisting of a vertical groove portion 213 extending in a first rotation direction and a horizontal groove portion 212 extending from the end of the vertical groove portion 213 in a second rotation direction.

[0108] As a result, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the vertical groove portion 213 and the horizontal groove portion 212 can reliably guide the swinging operation of the operating lever 120 in the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction, thereby suppressing erroneous operation of the operating lever 120.

[0109] In addition, in one embodiment of the shift device 100, the first rotating body 134 has a spiral slope 134A that generates a rotational force in the first rotating body 134 when pressed by a protrusion 133A provided on the first transmitting part 133 during operation of the first transmitting part 133.

[0110] As a result, the shift device 100 of one embodiment can ensure a large amount of rotation of the first rotating body 134 with a relatively simple configuration when the operating lever 120 is swung in a first rotation direction, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the swung operation in the first rotation direction.

[0111] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.

[0112] For example, shift device 100 may include a vibration generating unit that generates vibrations. In this case, control unit 150 may cause the vibration generating unit to generate vibrations in response to a swing operation of operation lever 120, thereby providing a tactile sensation in response to the swing operation of operation lever 120. This allows shift device 100 to allow the operator to tactilely recognize that shift device 100 has accepted the swing operation of operation lever 120.

[0113] This international application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-134814, filed on August 13, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0114] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Steering device 11 Steering 11A Rim 11B Hub 11C Spoke portion 12 Steering column 12A, 12B Side portion 13 Vehicle lever operation device 13A Main body portion 13B Operation lever 100 Shift device 100A Detection mechanism 110 Main body portion 111 Housing 111A First side portion 111B Opening 120 Operation lever 120A Base portion 120B Operation portion 121 Switch 122 Switch 123 First rotation shaft 124 Second rotation shaft 128 Coil spring 130 Support member 130A Claw portion 131 First drive portion 132 Second drive portion 133 First transmission portion 133A Protrusion 133B Engagement groove 134 First rotating body 134A Slope 134B Magnet 134X Rotating shaft 135 First magnetic sensor (first detection unit) 136 Second transmission unit 136A Teeth 136B Through hole 136X Rotating shaft 137 Second rotating body 137A Teeth 137B Magnet 137X Rotating shaft 138 Second magnetic sensor (second detection unit) 139 Circuit board 140 Cover 150 Control unit 200 Restricting unit 210 Restricting member 211 Guide unit 212 Horizontal groove 212A Upper wall surface 212B Lower wall surface 212C Front end surface 212D Rear end surface 212E Bottom surface 213 Vertical groove 213A Front wall surface 213B Rear wall surface 213C Upper end surface 213D Lower end surface 213E Bottom surface 220 Actuator L1 Line P0 Home position P1, P2, P3 Position

Claims

1. A shift device comprising: an operating lever that can be swung in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction that intersects the first rotation direction; a first drive unit and a second drive unit that operate together with the base of the operating lever; a first transmission unit that engages with the first drive unit and operates in response to the swinging operation of the operating lever in the first rotation direction; a first rotating body that rotates in response to the first transmission unit; a first detection unit that detects the rotation of the first rotating body; a second transmission unit that engages with the second drive unit and operates in response to the swinging operation of the operating lever in the second rotation direction; a second rotating body that rotates in response to the second transmission unit; and a second detection unit that detects the rotation of the second rotating body, wherein the first drive unit and the second drive unit are provided on the same member that forms at least a part of the base of the operating lever or is attached to the base of the operating lever.

2. A shift device as described in claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a circuit board that is disposed opposite the base of the operating lever and on which the first detection unit and the second detection unit are provided, and the first drive unit and the second drive unit are provided between the base and the circuit board.

3. A shifting device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a support member attached to said base, said same member being said support member.

4. The shifting device according to claim 3, wherein the support member is attached to the base by a snap-fit ​​structure.

5. A shift device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first drive unit is provided at a position farther from the rotation fulcrum of the operating lever than the second drive unit, so that the effective rotation angle of the operating lever in the first rotation direction is smaller than the effective rotation angle of the operating lever in the second rotation direction.

6. A shift device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first transmission part has a first recess that does not hinder the movement of the first drive part when the operating lever rotates in the second rotation direction, and the second transmission part has a second recess that does not hinder the movement of the second drive part when the operating lever rotates in the first rotation direction.

7. A shift device as described in claim 6, characterized in that the first drive portion and the second drive portion are protrusions, the first recess has an elongated hole shape that does not interfere with the movement of the first drive portion, and the second recess has an elongated hole shape that does not interfere with the movement of the second drive portion.

8. A shift device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises: an actuator provided at the base of the operating lever; and a guide portion that engages with the actuator and guides the operating path of the operating lever, and when viewed from the first rotation direction, the actuator, the first drive portion, the second drive portion, and the rotation fulcrum of the operating lever are provided on the same straight line.

9. The shift device according to claim 8, wherein the actuator automatically returns to a predetermined home position in the guide portion when the operating force on the operating lever is removed.

10. A shift device as described in claim 8, characterized in that the guide portion has a T-shape consisting of a vertical groove portion extending in the first rotation direction and a horizontal groove portion extending from the end of the vertical groove portion in the second rotation direction.

11. A shift device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first rotating body has a spiral slope that generates a rotational force in the first rotating body when pressed by a protrusion provided on the first transmission part when the first transmission part is operating.

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