Vehicle superstructure

Abstract

This vehicle superstructure comprises: a roof glass (20) that defines the upper part of a vehicle cabin (S1); an interior panel (30) that covers an outer peripheral part of the roof glass (20) from below and has a space (S2) provided between the interior panel (30) and the roof glass (20); and a vibrator (40) that is provided in the space (S2) and is attached to the roof glass (20). The interior panel (30) is provided with an opening (33) providing communication between the space (S2) and the vehicle cabin (S1).

Description

Vehicle superstructure

[0001] This disclosure relates to the superstructure of a vehicle.

[0002] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0394375 discloses a vehicle having a roof that is entirely made of glass. Multiple audio devices are mounted on the glass. In particular, the glass has multiple speakers near the lateral edges, an actuator configured to generate low-frequency sound is provided at the rear of the vehicle, and a tweeter speaker is provided at the front of the vehicle.

[0003] However, if an acoustic output component is attached to the roof glass, as in the vehicle described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0394375, the acoustic output component may be visible from inside the vehicle, potentially reducing the aesthetic appeal of the roof glass.

[0004] This disclosure aims to provide a vehicle superstructure that can improve the aesthetic appearance of the roof glass, taking the above facts into consideration.

[0005] The vehicle superstructure according to this disclosure comprises a roof glass defining the area above the passenger compartment, an interior panel covering the outer periphery of the roof glass from below and providing a space between it and the roof glass, and an acoustic output member provided in the space and attached to the lower surface of the roof glass, wherein the interior panel is provided with an opening that connects the space and the passenger compartment.

[0006] As explained above, the vehicle superstructure according to this disclosure has the excellent effect of improving the aesthetic appearance of the roof glass.

[0007] This is a bottom view showing the vehicle superstructure according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. This is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 2-2 in Figure 1. This is a diagram showing the main part of Figure 1 (the part enclosed by the dashed rectangle 3), with the cover removed. This is a bottom view showing the cover provided on the vehicle superstructure according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vehicle superstructure according to the second embodiment of this disclosure. This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vehicle superstructure according to the third embodiment of this disclosure. This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vehicle superstructure according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure. This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vehicle superstructure according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure. This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a modified vehicle superstructure according to each embodiment of this disclosure.

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the vehicle superstructure according to this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9. In each figure, arrows FR indicate the front of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, arrows IN indicate the inward direction in the vehicle width direction, and arrows UP indicate the upper side of the vehicle in the vertical direction. In the following description, when simply referred to as "longitudinal direction," "width direction," and "vertical direction," they refer to the longitudinal direction, width direction, and vertical direction of the vehicle, respectively.

[0009] [First Embodiment] First, the vehicle superstructure according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The vehicle superstructure according to this embodiment is applied to the upper part of a vehicle 10 having a vehicle frame 11. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the view of the ceiling 12 from the passenger compartment S1.

[0010] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle superstructure includes a ceiling section 12 that defines the area above the passenger compartment S1. The ceiling section 12 separates the passenger compartment S1 from the space outside the passenger compartment S3. The ceiling section 12 includes a substantially rectangular roof glass 20 that extends over substantially the entire area in the vehicle width direction and the vehicle longitudinal direction, and an interior panel 30 that covers the outer periphery of the roof glass 20 from below. The vehicle superstructure also includes a plurality of vibrators (acoustic output members) 40 attached to the roof glass 20, and a cover section 50 attached to the interior panel 30.

[0011] (Roof Glass) The roof glass 20 constitutes the vehicle's window glass. The roof glass 20 defines a portion of the upper end of the passenger compartment S1. In the portion of the roof glass 20 that defines the upper end of the passenger compartment S1, the passenger compartment S1 is separated from the space S3 outside the passenger compartment. The roof glass 20 is fixed to the vehicle frame 11 in a manner that prevents it from sliding. As shown in Figure 2, the end of the roof glass 20 in the vehicle width direction is fixed to the vehicle frame 11 via a fixing member 13. The fixing member 13 is attached to the lower surface of the end of the roof glass 20 in the vehicle width direction.

[0012] The outer perimeter 21 of the roof glass 20 is covered from below by an interior panel 30. The outer perimeter 21 refers to the ends of the roof glass 20 in the vehicle width direction and the vehicle longitudinal direction. Multiple transducers 40 are bonded to the lower surface 21A of the outer perimeter 21 that is covered by the interior panel 30. That is, the multiple transducers 40 are provided so as to be hidden from the passenger compartment S1 by the interior panel 30.

[0013] The roof glass 20 is often single-pane glass, but it may also be laminated glass in which two glass plates are bonded together with a resin intermediate layer. The roof glass 20 is made of transparent or translucent inorganic glass. Examples of inorganic glass that can be used include soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, alkali-free glass, and quartz glass.

[0014] If the roof glass 20 is inorganic glass and single-pane glass, it is preferable that the roof glass 20 is tempered glass. Tempered glass is glass on which a compressive stress layer has been formed, and may be either air-cooled tempered glass or chemically tempered glass. If the tempered glass is physically tempered glass (for example, air-cooled tempered glass), a compressive stress layer may be formed on the glass surface by an operation other than slow cooling, such as rapidly cooling a uniformly heated glass plate from a temperature near its softening point during bending, thereby generating a compressive stress layer on the glass surface due to the temperature difference between the glass surface and the inside of the glass. If the tempered glass is chemically tempered glass, a compressive stress layer may be formed on the glass surface after bending by an ion exchange method or the like.

[0015] In the case where the roof glass 20 is laminated glass in which two glass plates are bonded together with a resin intermediate layer, both glass plates may be untempered glass, one may be tempered glass, or both may be tempered glass. If both are tempered glass, both may be air-cooled tempered glass, both may be chemically tempered glass, or one may be air-cooled tempered glass and the other may be chemically tempered glass.

[0016] The roof glass 20 may be formed from organic glass. Examples of organic glass include PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) resin, PC (polycarbonate) resin, PS (polystyrene) resin, PET (polyethyleneterephthalate) resin, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) resin, and cellulose resin.

[0017] When the roof glass 20 is single-pane glass, the thickness of the roof glass 20 is preferably 0.5 [mm] or more, more preferably 1.0 [mm] or more, and even more preferably 1.5 [mm] or more. This improves the rigidity and strength of the roof glass 20, making it easier for the piston to vibrate. Also, when the roof glass 20 is single-pane glass, from the viewpoint of weight reduction, the thickness of the roof glass 20 is preferably 10.0 [mm] or less, more preferably 7.0 [mm] or less, and even more preferably 5.0 [mm] or less.

[0018] When the roof glass 20 is made of laminated glass in which two glass plates are bonded together by a resin intermediate layer, the thickness of each of the pair of glass plates constituting the roof glass 20 is preferably 0.5 [mm] or more, more preferably 1.0 [mm] or more, and even more preferably 1.5 [mm] or more. The thicknesses of the pair of glass plates constituting the roof glass 20 may be the same or different, but from the viewpoint of stabilizing sound pressure, the same thickness is preferred. Furthermore, the total thickness of the roof glass 20 is preferably 1.0 [mm] or more, more preferably 2.0 [mm] or more, and even more preferably 3.0 [mm] or more. Also, from the viewpoint of weight reduction, it is preferably 10.0 [mm] or less, more preferably 8.0 [mm] or less, and even more preferably 6.0 [mm] or less.

[0019] When the roof glass 20 is made of laminated glass, the intermediate layer can be a resin film containing a thermosetting adhesive material such as a transparent polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) resin film, silicone (PDMS), polyurethane, fluorine, polyethylene terephthalate, or polycarbonate. Furthermore, materials to enhance sound insulation, increase rigidity, and absorb ultraviolet and infrared rays may be added to the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer may also be in liquid or gel form. Examples of liquid intermediate layers include water, oil, organic solvents, liquid polymers, ionic liquids, and mixtures thereof. More specifically, examples include propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, straight silicone oil (dimethyl silicone oil, methylphenyl silicone oil, methyl hydrogen silicone oil), modified silicone oil, acrylic acid polymers, liquid polybutadiene, glycerin paste, fluorinated solvents, fluorinated resins, acetone, ethanol, xylene, toluene, water, mineral oil, and mixtures thereof. In particular, it is preferable to include at least one selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, dimethyl silicone oil, methylphenyl silicone oil, methyl hydrogen silicone oil, and modified silicone oil, and it is more preferable to have propylene glycol or silicone oil as the main component. Specifically, examples of gel-like intermediate layers include carbon-based, fluorinated, or silicone-based polymer materials. Specifically, examples include ABS, AES, AS, CA, CN, CPE, EEA, EVA, EVOH, IO, PMMA, PMP, PP, PS, PVC, RB, TPA, TPE, TPEE, TPF, TPO, TPS, TPU, TPVC, AAS, ACS, PET, PPE, PA6, PA66, PBN, PBT, PC, POM, PPO, ETFE, FEP, LCP, PEEK, PEI, PES, PFA, PPS, PSV, PTFE, PVDF, silicone, polyurethane, PI, PF, PVB, TAC, polyolefin, acrylic and its copolymer resins, etc. Alternatively, composite materials combining the above materials may be used. The above materials may be used individually or in combination of two or more types.Furthermore, tackifiers and plasticizers may be included to provide adhesion. The thickness of the intermediate layer may be, for example, 0.1 [μm] to 3.0 [mm], 1.0 [μm] to 2.8 [mm], or 3.0 [μm] to 2.6 [mm]. If the roof glass 20 is laminated glass, a dimmable film that electrically varies the visible light transmittance may be sandwiched between the two glass plates. Examples of dimmable films that can be used include TN (Twisted Nematic) type liquid crystal film, VA (Vertical Alignment) type liquid crystal film, polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film, suspended particle device (SPD) film, polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC) film, guest host liquid crystal film, electrochromic material, and photochromic material. Glass on which an image is displayed on part or all of the glass is also conceivable. A liquid crystal film may be sandwiched as a method for displaying the image. Alternatively, a projection screen film may be sandwiched between the glass plates. Furthermore, some or all of the glass may be equipped with film-like solar cell elements for generating electricity from sunlight. To ensure visibility as a vehicle window, it is generally preferable to use transparent films with excellent transparency. These functions can be imparted not only by sandwiching the film between the glass plates, but also by directly microfabrication, printing, transfer, or application of the film to the glass surface, as long as the glass speaker's function is not compromised.

[0020] In this embodiment, the roof glass 20 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape with the vehicle's width direction as the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, a light-shielding layer (not shown) of a predetermined width is provided on the outer periphery of the roof glass 20, formed from a color ceramic layer such as black, dark, or white, or a color ink layer printed with organic or inorganic ink. Note that this disclosure may also be applied to structures without a light-shielding layer.

[0021] The roof glass 20 has a structure that prevents adhesives and other materials from being visible from the outside of the vehicle due to a light-shielding layer (not shown). The light-shielding layer is provided continuously around the outer edge of the roof glass 20, but there may be areas where the light-shielding layer is not provided in at least a part of it.

[0022] Furthermore, a defogger (not shown) may be formed on the interior surface of the roof glass 20 to clear fog (for anti-fogging). The defogger has a plurality of heater wires extending in the width direction of the roof glass 20 and a pair of busbars extending vertically near both sides of the roof glass 20, with a plurality of heater wires formed between the pair of busbars. The defogger is formed by printing and firing a silver paste containing silver powder and glass frit onto the surface of the roof glass 20.

[0023] Furthermore, if the roof glass 20 is equipped with conductive wires (for example, defoggers and antennas) formed by printing and baking a paste containing a conductive metal (for example, silver paste) onto the main surface on the interior side of the vehicle, it is preferable that the transducer 40 be mounted so as not to overlap with the conductive wires.

[0024] Furthermore, a coating film may be formed on the roof glass 20. The coating film may include a Low-E (Low Emissivity) film, an AG (Anti-Glare) film, an AR (Anti-Reflection) film, an AF (Anti-Fingerprint) film, a UV (ultraviolet) cut film, an anti-fogging film, an anti-mold film, and a water-repellent film.

[0025] Furthermore, the roof glass 20 may be colored glass baked with blue, red, green, gray, etc., or it may be privacy glass. Privacy glass is glass with lower transparency than green glass and clear glass, and is also called dark gray glass. In the roof glass 20, the privacy glass is Fe ２ O ３ This can be achieved by adjusting the total iron content converted to iron. The visible light transmittance of privacy glass can be adjusted to approximately 40-50% when the plate thickness is 1.8 mm, and approximately 30-45% when the plate thickness is 2.0 mm.

[0026] (Interior Panel) As shown in Figure 1, the interior panel 30 is made of a resin material such as plastic. The interior panel 30 is a plate-shaped and rectangular frame-shaped member. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the interior panel 30 covers the entire circumferential area of ​​the outer periphery of the roof glass 20 from below. The material of the interior panel 30 is not limited to resin. For example, the interior panel 30 may be made of a composite material of metal and resin, or of carbon fiber.

[0027] As shown in Figure 1, the interior panel 30 integrally comprises a pair of first portions 31 that cover the ends of the roof glass 20 in the vehicle width direction and extend in the vehicle longitudinal direction, and a pair of second portions 32 that cover the ends of the roof glass 20 in the longitudinal width direction and extend in the vehicle width direction.

[0028] A pair of first portions 31 are provided so as to be spaced apart in the vehicle width direction. Each first portion 31 covers the vehicle width direction end of the roof glass 20. A pair of second portions 32 are provided so as to be spaced apart in the vehicle front-rear direction. Each second portion 32 covers the vehicle width direction end of the roof glass 20. The second portions 32 connect the front ends or rear ends of the pair of first portions 31.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the interior panel 30 forms a space S2 between itself and the roof glass 20. More specifically, the space S2 is provided between the upper surface 30A of the interior panel 30 and the lower surface 21A of the outer periphery 21 of the roof glass 20.

[0030] Furthermore, the interior panel 30 integrally comprises a first panel portion 34 that extends opposite to the roof glass 20, and a second panel portion 35 that is connected to the inner end of the first panel portion 34 in the vehicle width direction. The first panel portion 34 is provided on the outside in the vehicle width direction.

[0031] The first panel section 34 is positioned opposite the roof glass 20. The second panel section 35 is connected to the inside of the first panel section 34 in the vehicle width direction. A side wall section (not shown) that defines the side of the passenger compartment S1 is connected to the outside of the first panel section 34 in the vehicle width direction. The first panel section 34 defines the lower end of the space S2. The first panel section 34 covers the transducer 40 from below.

[0032] The second panel portion 35 has its inner end in the vehicle width direction connected to the first panel portion 34. The second panel portion 35 is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so that it approaches the roof glass 20 as it moves inward in the vehicle width direction. The inner end of the second panel portion 35 in the vehicle width direction is slightly spaced away from the roof glass 20. The inner end of the second panel portion 35 in the vehicle width direction is located above the lower end of the transducer 40. The second panel portion 35 defines the inner side of the space S2 in the vehicle width direction. The second panel portion 35 covers the transducer 40 from the inside in the vehicle width direction.

[0033] As shown in Figure 1, the first portion 31 of the interior panel 30 is provided with a plurality of openings 33. In this embodiment, each first portion 31 is provided with two openings 33. The two openings 33 are spaced apart in the front-rear direction. Also, as shown in Figure 2, the openings 33 are provided in the first panel portion 34 of the first portion 31. The openings 33 are closed by the cover portion 50.

[0034] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the opening 33 is rectangular in shape when viewed from below, with the front-to-back direction being its longitudinal direction. The opening 33 penetrates the interior panel 30 in the vertical direction. The opening 33 communicates with space S2. More specifically, the opening 33 connects the passenger compartment S1 and space S2.

[0035] The opening 33 is provided so as to overlap with the transducer 40 when viewed from the vertical direction of the vehicle. The length of the opening 33 in the vehicle width direction is longer than the length of the transducer 40 in the vehicle width direction. Also, the length of the opening 33 in the vehicle longitudinal direction is longer than the length of the transducer 40 in the vehicle longitudinal direction. The opening 33 is provided in a position that allows access to the transducer 40 from the vehicle compartment S1. Furthermore, the size of the opening 33 is such that a worker can access the transducer 40 through the opening 33.

[0036] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the interior panel 30 is provided with a front recess (engaged portion) 37 that protrudes forward from the front edge of the opening 33. The front recess 37 is in communication with the opening 33. The front recess 37 may be, for example, a groove provided on the upper surface of the interior panel 30. The front recess 37 engages with the front claw portion 53 of the cover portion 50, which will be described later.

[0037] Furthermore, the interior panel 30 is provided with a rear recess (engaged portion) 38 that protrudes forward from the rear edge of the opening 33. The rear recess 38 communicates with the opening 33. The rear recess 38 may be, for example, a groove provided on the upper surface of the interior panel 30. The rear recess 38 engages with the rear claw portion 54 of the cover portion 50, which will be described later.

[0038] (Transducer) The transducer 40 is bonded to the lower surface 21A of the outer periphery 21 of the roof glass 20. The transducer 40 is positioned so that, when viewed from above, its entirety overlaps with the opening 33.

[0039] The vibrator 40 vibrates the roof glass 20 to function as a speaker. Specifically, the vibrator 40 is connected to a power source via a cable (not shown) and is an actuator that vibrates the roof glass 20 in response to an input electrical signal. As an example, the vibrator 14 in the present embodiment is a voice coil motor including a coil portion and a magnetic circuit. One of the coil portion and the magnetic circuit is fixed to the roof glass 20, and the other is arranged to be relatively movable with respect to the roof glass 20. Then, when a current flows through the coil portion, vibration is generated by the interaction between the coil portion and the magnetic circuit, and the roof glass 20 is vibrated (excited). The vibration direction is the thickness direction of the vibrator 40. Note that the vibrator 40 is not limited to a voice coil motor, and an actuator other than a voice coil motor, such as a piezo method, can be adopted as long as it can transmit a desired vibration to the roof glass 20.

[0040] (Cover portion) The cover portion 50 is attached to the interior panel 30 so as to close the opening 33. The cover portion 50 covers the entire area of the opening 33. The cover portion 50 is detachably attached to the interior panel 30. The outer shape of the cover portion 50 is substantially the same as the shape of the opening 33.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, the cover portion 50 includes a frame portion 51, a mesh portion 52 provided inside the frame portion 51, a front-side claw portion (engagement portion) 53 that protrudes forward from the front-end portion of the frame portion 51 on the vehicle front side, and a rear-side claw portion (engagement portion) 54 that protrudes rearward from the rear-end portion of the frame portion 51 on the vehicle rear side.

[0042] The frame portion 51 is a rectangular frame body, and a rectangular opening is provided inside. The opening is covered with the mesh portion 52.

[0043] The mesh portion 52 is, for example, a wire mesh. That is, the mesh portion 52 is provided with a large number of small holes and is configured to allow air to pass through. The mesh portion 52 covers the entire area of the opening inside the frame portion 51. The mesh portion 52 is provided at the center in the vehicle front-rear direction and at the center in the vehicle width direction of the frame portion 51. The mesh portion 52 is provided so as to overlap with the vibrator 40 when viewed from the vehicle up-down direction. The size of each mesh of the mesh portion 32 may be 0.1 mm ２ or more and 100 mm ２ or less.

[0044] The front-side claw portion 53 is connected to the front-end portion of the frame portion 51 on the vehicle front side. The front-side claw portion 53 is configured to be elastically deformable. The front-side claw portion 53 is configured to be engageable with the front-side concave portion 37.

[0045] The rear-side claw portion 54 is connected to the rear-end portion of the frame portion 51 on the vehicle rear side. The rear-side claw portion 54 is configured to be elastically deformable. The rear-side claw portion 54 is configured to be engageable with the rear-side concave portion 38.

[0046] The lid portion 50 is attached to the interior panel 30 by engaging the front-side claw portion 53 with the front-side concave portion 37 by elastic deformation of the front-side claw portion 53 and engaging the rear-side claw portion 54 with the rear-side concave portion 38 by elastic deformation of the rear-side claw portion 54. Therefore, when attaching the lid portion 50 to the interior panel 30, first, the front-side claw portion 53 is inserted into the front-side concave portion 37 to engage the front-side claw portion 53 with the front-side concave portion 37. Next, the rear-side claw portion 54 is inserted into the rear-side concave portion 38 to engage the rear-side claw portion 54 with the rear-side concave portion 38.

[0047] According to the present embodiment, the following operational effects are achieved. In the present embodiment, the vibrator 40 is provided in the space S2 provided between the roof glass 20 and the interior panel 30. Thereby, when viewed from the passenger compartment S1, the vibrator 40 is hidden by the interior panel 30. Therefore, it becomes difficult to visually recognize the vibrator 40 from inside the passenger compartment S1, and the aesthetic appearance of the roof glass 20 can be improved.

[0048] Furthermore, since the transducer 40 is hidden within the interior panel 30, the area obstructed by the transducer 40 in the field of view through the roof glass 20 can be reduced.

[0049] Furthermore, since the transducer 40 is hidden by the interior panel 30, contact between the occupants in the vehicle compartment S1 and the transducer 40 is suppressed, thereby preventing malfunction of the transducer 40.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the interior panel 30 is provided with an opening 33 that communicates with the space S2. In addition, in this embodiment, the size of the opening 33 is sufficiently larger than the transducer 40. That is, the opening 33 is large enough for workers and work equipment to access the transducer 40 through the opening 33. Therefore, the installation, removal, and maintenance of the transducer 40 can be performed without removing the interior panel 30, thus simplifying the attachment, removal, and maintenance of the transducer 40.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a cover portion 50 is provided to close the opening 33. As a result, the opening 33 is closed by the cover portion 50, and the inside of the space S2 cannot be seen through the opening 33. Therefore, the aesthetic appearance of the interior of the vehicle can be improved.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lid 50 is detachably attached to the interior panel 30. This allows switching between a state where the opening 33 is open and a state where the opening 33 is closed by attaching or detaching the lid 50.

[0053] In this embodiment, the lid 50 is attached to the interior panel 30 by engaging the claws (front claw 53 and rear claw 54) with the recesses (front recess 37 and rear recess 38). Therefore, the lid 50 can be attached to the interior panel 30 simply by inserting the claws into the recesses. Also, the lid 50 can be removed from the interior panel 30 simply by removing the claws from the recesses. In this way, the attachment and detachment of the lid 50 can be made easier.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the opening 33 is not closed by the lid 50, air enters and exits the space S2 through the opening 33, thereby suppressing the rise in temperature within the space S2 and suppressing the temperature rise of the transducer 40 provided in the space S2. Therefore, damage to the transducer 40 can be suppressed.

[0055] Furthermore, if an acoustic device such as the transducer 40 is placed in space S2, the sound is shielded by the interior panel 30, which may reduce the sound pressure of certain frequencies in the sound transmitted to the vehicle compartment S1. However, in this embodiment, if the opening 33 is not closed by the lid 50, sound is transmitted to the vehicle compartment S1 through the opening 33. This suppresses the reduction in sound pressure in the sound transmitted to the vehicle compartment S1. Therefore, acoustic performance can be improved.

[0056] In this embodiment, a mesh portion 52 is provided on the lid portion 50. As a result, even when the opening 33 is closed with the lid portion 50, air enters and exits the space S2 through the multiple holes provided in the mesh portion 52. Therefore, the rise in temperature inside the space S2 is suppressed, and the temperature rise of the transducer 40 installed in the space S2 is suppressed. Thus, even when the opening 33 is closed with the lid portion 50, damage to the transducer 40 can be suppressed. Similarly, even when the opening 33 is closed with the lid portion 50, sound is transmitted to the vehicle compartment S1 through the multiple holes provided in the mesh portion 52. As a result, the reduction in sound pressure of the sound transmitted to the vehicle compartment S1 can be suppressed. Thus, even when the opening 33 is closed with the lid portion 50, acoustic performance can be improved.

[0057] [Second Embodiment] Next, the vehicle superstructure according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 5. The vehicle superstructure according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it includes interior components. In the following description, only the differences from the first embodiment will be mentioned, and detailed descriptions of the same aspects as the first embodiment will be omitted. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0058] The vehicle superstructure according to this embodiment includes an interior member 60 that covers the interior panel 30 from below. The interior member 60 extends substantially parallel to the roof glass 20 and the first panel portion 34 of the interior panel 30.

[0059] The interior component 60 has a lower opening 61 that overlaps with the opening 33 of the interior panel 30 when viewed from above. The lower opening 61 is rectangular in shape when viewed from below, with the front-to-back direction being its longitudinal direction. The lower opening 61 is closed by a lower cover 62. Furthermore, the length of the lower opening 61 in the vehicle width direction is longer than the length of the opening 33 in the vehicle width direction.

[0060] The lower cover portion 62 is attached to the interior member 60 so as to close the lower opening 61. The lower cover portion 62 is detachably attached to the interior member 60. The outer shape of the lower cover portion 62 is substantially the same as the shape of the lower opening 61.

[0061] The lower cover portion 62 includes a frame portion 63, a mesh portion 64 provided inside the frame portion 63, a front claw portion (not shown) protruding forward from the front end of the frame portion 63 on the vehicle side, and a rear claw portion (not shown) protruding rearward from the rear end of the frame portion 63 on the vehicle side.

[0062] The frame portion 63 is a rectangular frame with a rectangular opening on its inside. This opening is covered with a mesh portion 64. The mesh portion 64 is, for example, a metal mesh. That is, the mesh portion 64 has many small holes so that air can pass through. The front claw portion is connected to the front end of the frame portion 63 on the vehicle side. The front claw portion is designed to engage with a front recess (not shown) provided in the interior member 60. The rear claw portion is connected to the rear end of the frame portion 63 on the vehicle side. The rear claw portion is designed to engage with a rear recess (not shown) provided in the interior member 60. The lower cover portion 62 is attached to the interior member 60 by the front claw portion engaging with the front recess and the rear claw portion engaging with the rear recess.

[0063] This embodiment provides the following advantages. In this embodiment, the interior member 60 that covers the interior panel 30 from below is provided with a lower opening 61 at a position that overlaps with the opening 33 when viewed from above. As a result, even when the interior panel 30 and the interior member 60 are installed between the vehicle compartment S1 and the space S2, it is possible to access the space S2 from the vehicle compartment S1 through the lower opening 61 and the opening 33.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower opening 61 is longer in the vehicle width direction than the opening 33. As a result, even if the interior panel 30 and interior member 60 are provided between the passenger compartment S1 and the space S2, the space S2 can be accessed through the lower opening 61 and the opening 33.

[0065] [Third Embodiment] Next, the vehicle superstructure according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. The vehicle superstructure according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that an opening is provided in the second panel portion of the interior panel, and this opening is covered by a lid. In the following description, only the points that differ from the first embodiment will be mentioned, and detailed explanations of points that are the same as in the first embodiment will be omitted. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0066] A lateral opening 70 is provided in the second panel portion (side wall portion) 35 of the interior panel 30 according to this embodiment. The lateral opening 70 communicates with space S2. More specifically, the lateral opening 70 connects the vehicle compartment S1 and space S2. The lateral opening 70 is closed by a lateral cover portion 71.

[0067] The side cover portion 71 is attached to the interior panel 30 so as to close the side opening 70. The side cover portion 71 is detachably attached to the interior panel 30. The outer shape of the side cover portion 71 is substantially the same as the shape of the side opening 70.

[0068] The side cover portion 71 includes a frame portion 72, a mesh portion 73 provided inside the frame portion 72, a front claw portion (not shown) protruding forward from the front end of the frame portion 72 on the vehicle side, and a rear claw portion (not shown) protruding rearward from the rear end of the frame portion 72 on the vehicle side.

[0069] The frame portion 72 is a rectangular frame with a rectangular opening on its inside. This opening is covered with a mesh portion 73. The mesh portion 73 is, for example, a metal mesh. That is, the mesh portion 73 has many small holes, allowing air to pass through. The size of each mesh in the mesh portion 73 is 0.1 mm. ２ Above 100mm ２ The following configuration may be used: The front claw portion is connected to the front end of the frame portion 72. The front claw portion is designed to engage with a front recess (not shown) provided in the interior member 60. The rear claw portion is connected to the rear end of the frame portion 72. The rear claw portion is designed to engage with a rear recess (not shown) provided in the interior panel 30. The side cover portion 71 is attached to the interior panel 30 by the front claw portion engaging with the front recess and the rear claw portion engaging with the rear recess.

[0070] This embodiment provides the following advantages. In this embodiment, the second panel portion 35 is provided with a lateral opening 70 that communicates with space S2. As a result, space S2 can be accessed not only through the opening 33 but also through the lateral opening 70. Therefore, space S2 can be accessed more easily.

[0071] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, the vehicle superstructure according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 7. The vehicle superstructure according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the openings in the interior panels are closed by speakers rather than covers. In the following description, only the differences from the first embodiment will be mentioned, and detailed descriptions of the same aspects as the first embodiment will be omitted. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0072] In this embodiment, the opening 33 of the interior panel 30 is closed by a speaker 80. The speaker 80 is attached to the interior panel 30 so as to close the opening 33. The speaker 80 is attached to the interior panel 30 by fasteners such as screws. The speaker 80 is preferably, for example, a tweeter speaker capable of outputting high-frequency sound.

[0073] The speaker 80 is connected to a cable 81. The speaker 80 receives signals, etc., via the cable 81. The cable 81 branches at an intermediate point, with one branch connected to the transducer 40 and the other connected to the speaker 80. Note that the cable connected to the transducer 40 and the cable connected to the speaker 80 may be independent of each other.

[0074] This embodiment provides the following effects. In this embodiment, a speaker 80 is mounted on the interior panel 30 so as to close the opening 33. As a result, for example, by outputting sound at frequencies that are easily blocked by the interior panel 30 (e.g., high frequencies) from the speaker 80, the sound at those frequencies can be supplemented by the speaker 80, thereby suppressing the reduction in sound pressure at those frequencies in the sound transmitted to the vehicle interior S1. Therefore, acoustic performance can be improved.

[0075] Furthermore, since the speaker 80 is attached to the interior panel 30 by removable fasteners such as screws, the opening 33 can be opened by releasing the fasteners. Therefore, the transducer 40 can be accessed through the opening 33.

[0076] [Fifth Embodiment] Next, the vehicle superstructure according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. The vehicle superstructure according to this embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in that it is provided with a storage device for housing a shade in the space. In the following description, only the points that differ from the first embodiment will be mentioned, and detailed explanations of points that are the same as in the first embodiment will be omitted. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0077] The vehicle superstructure of this embodiment includes a shade (not shown) that covers the roof glass 20 from below, and a roof shade rail (storage device) 90 that houses the shade. When deployed, the shade covers the roof glass 20 from below. When retracted, the shade is housed in the roof shade rail 90.

[0078] The roof shade rail 90 is designed to allow the shade to be rolled up when extended. The roof shade rail 90 houses the rolled-up shade inside. The roof shade rail 90 is housed in a space S2 provided between the roof glass 20 and the interior panel 30. The roof shade rail 90 is located inward in the vehicle width direction from the vibrator 40. The roof shade rail 90 is attached to the upper surface of the interior panel 30. Above the roof shade rail 90, a vertical interior member 91 extending upward is provided. The vertical interior member 91 is made of, for example, rubber. However, the material of the vertical interior member 91 is not limited to rubber. The vertical interior member 91 may be made of, for example, metal.

[0079] This embodiment provides the following advantages. In this embodiment, a roof shade rail 90 for housing the shade is provided in space S2. By arranging the transducer 40 in space S2 where the roof shade rail 90 for housing the shade is provided, the space S2 can be effectively utilized.

[0080] Although the vehicle superstructures according to each embodiment have been described above, this disclosure allows for appropriate design modifications without departing from its essence. For example, multiple embodiments may be combined.

[0081] Furthermore, although the above embodiments describe an example in which a transducer 40 is housed in space S2 as an acoustic output member, the disclosure is not limited thereto. The acoustic output member housed in space S2 can be any member that can be attached to the roof glass 20. An example of an acoustic output member may be a speaker such as a tweeter capable of outputting high-frequency sounds.

[0082] Furthermore, although the above embodiments describe examples in which a mesh portion 52 is provided on the lid portion 50 that closes the opening 33, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the lid portion may not be provided with a mesh portion 52.

[0083] Also, in each of the above embodiments, an example where the lid portion 50 is attached to the interior panel 30 by the claw portion has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. From the viewpoint of ease of attachment and detachment, it is desirable that the lid portion 50 has a structure that can be easily attached to the interior panel 30. However, when it is desired to firmly attach the lid portion 50 to the interior panel 30, for example, it may be attached to the interior panel 30 by a detachable fastener such as a bolt. In the case of such a structure, the lid portion 50 can be removed from the interior panel 30 by releasing the fastening by the fastener, and access can be obtained to the vibrator 40 in the space S2. The area of the lid portion 50 is at least 5 cm ２ or more, preferably 10 cm ２ or more, and more preferably 20 cm ２ or more. If the area of the lid portion 50 is 5 cm ２ or more, even when the vibrator 40 needs to be replaced due to a failure or the like, the vibrator 40 can be taken out.

[0084] Also, for example, in each of the above embodiments, an example where the vibrator 40 is directly adhered to the roof glass 20 has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the vibrator 40 may be attached to the roof glass 20 via a mount member 100 or a long lot (not shown). The mount member 100 is a member for fixing the vibrator 40.

[0085] Regarding the above embodiments, the following additional remarks are further disclosed.

[0086] (Note 1) A vehicle superstructure comprising: a roof glass defining the area above the passenger compartment; an interior panel covering the outer periphery of the roof glass from below, with a space between the panel and the roof glass; and an acoustic output member provided in the space and attached to the lower surface of the roof glass, wherein the interior panel is provided with an opening that connects the space and the passenger compartment. (Note 2) The vehicle superstructure according to Note 1, further comprising a cover portion that covers the opening. (Note 3) The vehicle superstructure according to Note 2, wherein the cover portion is structured to allow air to pass through. (Note 4) The vehicle superstructure according to Note 2 or Note 3, wherein the cover portion is detachably attached to the interior panel. (Note 5) The vehicle superstructure according to Note 4, wherein one of the cover portion or the interior panel is provided with an elastically deformable engaging portion, and the other of the cover portion or the interior panel is provided with an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion. (Note 6) The vehicle superstructure according to any one of Notes 1 to 5, comprising an interior member that covers the interior panel from below, wherein the interior member is provided with a lower opening at a position that overlaps with the opening when viewed from above. (Note 7) The vehicle superstructure according to Note 6, wherein the lower opening is longer in the vehicle width direction than the opening. (Note 8) The vehicle superstructure according to any one of Notes 1 to 8, wherein the interior panel has a side wall portion that defines the inside of the space in the vehicle width direction, and the side wall portion is provided with a lateral opening that communicates with the space. (Note 9) The vehicle superstructure according to Note 1, wherein a speaker is mounted on the interior panel so as to close the opening. (Note 10) The vehicle superstructure according to Notes 1 to 9, wherein the sound output member is mounted on the roof glass via a mounting member. (Note 11) The vehicle superstructure according to any one of Notes 1 to 10, comprising a shade that covers the roof glass from below, and a storage device for housing the shade provided in the space.

[0087] Furthermore, the disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-229307, filed on December 25, 2024, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described herein are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if the incorporation of each individual document, patent application, and technical standard were specifically and individually stated.

[0088] 10 Vehicle 11 Body frame 12 Ceiling 13 Fixing member 14 Transducer 20 Roof glass 21 Outer perimeter 21A Lower surface 30 Interior panel 30A Upper surface 31 First part 32 Second part 33 Opening 34 First panel part 35 Second panel part (side wall part) 37 Front recess (engaged part) 38 Rear recess (engaged part) 40 Transducer (sound output member) 50 Cover part 51 Frame part 52 Mesh part 53 Front claw part (engaged part) 54 Rear claw part (engaged part) 60 Interior member 61 Lower opening 62 Lower cover part 63 Frame part 64 Mesh part 70 Side opening 71 Side cover part 72 Frame part 73 Mesh part 80 Speaker 81 Cable 90 Roof shade rail (storage device) 91 Vertical interior member S1 Vehicle compartment S2 Space S3 Space outside the vehicle compartment

Claims

1. A vehicle superstructure comprising: a roof glass defining the area above the passenger compartment; an interior panel covering the outer periphery of the roof glass from below, with a space between the panel and the roof glass; and an acoustic output member provided in the space and attached to the roof glass, wherein the interior panel is provided with an opening that connects the space and the passenger compartment.

2. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 1, further comprising a cover portion that covers the opening.

3. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 2, wherein the lid portion has a structure that allows air to pass through.

4. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 2, wherein the lid portion is detachably attached to the interior panel.

5. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 4, wherein one of the lid or the interior panel is provided with an elastically deformable engaging portion, and the other of the lid or the interior panel is provided with an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion.

6. The vehicle upper structure according to claim 1, comprising an interior member that covers the interior panel from below, wherein the interior member is provided with a lower opening at a position that overlaps with the opening when viewed from above.

7. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 6, wherein the lower opening has a longer length in the vehicle width direction than the opening.

8. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 1, wherein the interior panel has a side wall portion that defines the inner side of the space in the vehicle width direction, and the side wall portion is provided with a lateral opening that communicates with the space.

9. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 1, wherein a speaker is mounted on the interior panel so as to cover the opening.

10. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 1, wherein the acoustic output member is attached to the roof glass via a mounting member.

11. The vehicle superstructure according to claim 1, comprising a shade that covers the roof glass from below, and a storage device for housing the shade provided in the space.

Images