JP2008030728A - Tilt type steering device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize a structure capable of providing good actuating performance at the time of tilt swing of a steering column even though an arrangement direction of the steering column is apt to incline to a direction parallel with a direction orthogonal to an axis of first passing holes 39, 39 formed on a car body side bracket 4a. <P>SOLUTION: A cylindrical member 44 and a bush 45 made of elastic material are arranged between an inner peripheral surface 43 of a second through hole 40 of a steering column side bracket 14a fixed to the steering column and an outer peripheral surface 42 of a tilt pivot shaft 5a. External surfaces 52, 52 of flanges 48, 48 of the bush 45 are inclined to internal surfaces 51, 51 of both support plate parts 38, 38 of the car body side bracket 4a while the inner peripheral surface 43 is inclined to the outer peripheral surface of the bush 45. An axis of the second through hole 40 can be inclined to axes of the first through holes 39, 39. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an improvement of a tilt type steering apparatus that adjusts the height position of a steering wheel. In particular, the present invention is suitable for an electric tilt type steering apparatus using an electric motor as a power source.

  As a device for adjusting the height of a steering wheel in accordance with a driver's physique, driving posture, and the like, a steering wheel height position adjusting device called a tilt type steering device has been conventionally known. An electric tilt type steering device for a steering wheel, in which the height position is adjusted by an electric motor based on a switch operation, is also conventionally known, as described in Patent Document 1, for example.

  17 to 18 show a manual tilt type steering device among the tilt type steering devices as described above. First, the structure of the tilt type steering device will be briefly described. The basic structure is the same as that of the electric tilt type steering device. Rear end (right end of FIG. 17) In the present specification and claims, “rear” means “rear” with respect to the traveling direction of the automobile, and conversely, “front” refers to the traveling direction of the automobile. The steering shaft 2 that is rotated by the operation of the steering wheel 1 fixed to the front is inserted into the steering column 3 so as to be rotatable, and the front end of the steering column 3 (left end in FIG. 17). Is pivotably supported by a tilt pivot shaft 5 supported by a vehicle body side bracket 4 fixed to the vehicle body. On the other hand, the intermediate portion of the steering column 3 supports the second vehicle body side bracket 6 fixed to the vehicle body so that the height position can be adjusted.

  The second vehicle body side bracket 6 is formed by bending a metal plate having sufficient rigidity, and includes a pair of vertical plate portions 7 and 7 arranged in parallel to each other. Further, at the positions where these vertical plate portions 7 and 7 are aligned with each other, long holes 8 and 8 having an arc shape centering on the tilt pivot shaft 5 and being long in the vertical direction are formed. In addition, an elevating / lowering section having a substantially U-shaped cross section is formed by bending a metal plate having sufficient rigidity at the intermediate portion of the steering column 3 between the vertical plate portions 7 and 7. The bracket 9 is fixed by welding or the like. The elevating bracket 9 includes a pair of side plate portions 10 and 10 that overlap the vertical plate portions 7 and 7 and are parallel to each other. Further, concentric through holes 11 and 11 are formed in portions of the both side plate portions 10 and 10 that are aligned with the long holes 8 and 8, respectively. A tilt bolt 12 is inserted through each of the through holes 11 and 11 and the long holes 8 and 8.

  A tilt lever 13 is provided at the tip of the tilt bolt 12, and by operating the tilt lever 13, the inner side surfaces of the two vertical plate portions 7, 7 and the outer side surfaces of the both side plate portions 10, 10 are provided. Change the frictional force generated between them. Then, the steering column 3 can be swung or cannot be swung around the tilt pivot shaft 5. Thereby, the height position of the steering wheel 1 can be adjusted and held at the adjusted position. In the case of the electric tilt type steering device, a portion corresponding to the lifting bracket 9 is moved up and down by an electric actuator using an electric motor as a drive source to swing the steering column 3.

  As described above, the steering column 3 has a front end portion by the tilt pivot shaft 5 supported by the vehicle body side bracket 4 and an intermediate portion by the lift bracket 9 supported by the second vehicle body side bracket 6 so as to be movable up and down. Support each one. In the case of such a structure, there is a possibility that the operability at the time of swinging in the tilt (vertical direction) may be deteriorated due to an error generated in a portion supporting the front end portion and the intermediate portion of the steering column 3. That is, since the tilt pivot shaft 5 supports the steering column 3 so as to be swingable in the vertical direction, the tilt pivot shaft 5 is in a direction (horizontal direction) parallel to a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the steering column 3 is disposed (central axis). Arranged. For this purpose, in order to support the tilt pivot shaft 5 on the vehicle body, a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the first through hole formed in the vehicle body side bracket 4 through which the tilt pivot shaft 5 is inserted, The arrangement direction of the steering column 3 needs to be parallel (or matched).

  However, for example, the flatness of the inner surface of the pair of vertical plate portions 7 and 7 constituting the second vehicle body side bracket 6 that supports the intermediate portion of the steering column 3, and the vehicle body of the second vehicle body side bracket 6 The vertical plate portions 7 and 7 are affected by the accuracy of the mounting surface to the vehicle body and the positional relationship of the mounting bolt holes provided on the vehicle body side in order to mount the second vehicle body side bracket 6 to the vehicle body. There is a possibility that the direction of the inner surface is slightly inclined with respect to the direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through hole formed in the vehicle body side bracket 4. When such an inclination occurs, for example, the pair of side plate portions 10 and 10 constituting the elevating bracket 9 are inclined so as to follow the inner side surfaces of the two vertical plate portions 7 and 7, and the steering column 3, there is a possibility that the steering column 3 is assembled to the vehicle body in a state where the portion sandwiched between the both side plate portions 10 and 10 is pushed in the bending direction. Further, the mounting position relationship between the vehicle body side bracket 4 and the second vehicle body side bracket 6 may be shifted, and the direction of the steering column 3 may be shifted.

  In any case, the direction of the inner side surfaces of the two vertical plate portions 7, 7 of the second vehicle body side bracket 6 is inclined with respect to the direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through hole. Then, during tilt swing, the steering column 3 competes with the second vehicle body side bracket 6 that supports the intermediate portion of the steering column 3 (a force is applied from the steering column 3 to the second vehicle body side bracket 6). State). Further, the contact area between the inner side surfaces of the vertical plate portions 7 and 7 of the second vehicle body side bracket 6 and the side plate portions 10 and 10 of the lifting bracket 9 is large, and as described above, the steering column 3 and In a state where the second vehicle body side bracket 6 competes, the frictional resistance between the two plate portions 7 and 10 increases. For this reason, there is a possibility that the operability at the time of tilt swing of the steering column 3 may be deteriorated.

  Alternatively, when the tilt as described above occurs, the tilt pivot shaft 5 is inserted into the steering column side bracket 14 whose central axis is fixed to the front end portion of the steering column 3. It tends to be inclined with respect to the central axis of the second through hole. Then, a part of the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft 5 and a part of the inner peripheral surface of the second through hole are in strong contact, and the steering column side bracket 14 is centered on the tilt pivot shaft 5. As a result, tilt swing may be difficult.

  Further, even if the tilt type steering device operates smoothly in a single state before being attached to the vehicle body, due to the error of the attaching portion as described above, the difference in the assembling procedure, etc., the direction in which the steering column 3 is disposed is There may be a tendency to incline with respect to a direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through hole. In this case as well, there is a possibility that the operability at the time of tilt swing of the steering column 3 may be deteriorated. In other words, there is a possibility that the tilt performance of the tilt type steering device will change before and after being attached to the vehicle body.

  The decrease in operability when the steering column swings due to the above-mentioned causes is likely to be noticeable in an electric tilt type steering apparatus that swings using an electric motor as a drive source. That is, in the case of the electric tilt type steering device, the driving force is limited because the electric motor is used as the driving source. Therefore, as described above, when a competing force is generated between the steering column and the second vehicle body side bracket during tilt swing, the operability is deteriorated and the performance is changed. It becomes more prominent than

JP 2000-238647 A

  In the tilt type steering apparatus according to the present invention, in view of the above-described circumstances, the steering column is disposed in the central axis of the first through hole for inserting the tilt pivot shaft formed in the vehicle body side bracket. The present invention has been invented to realize a structure capable of improving the operability when the steering column is tilted and tilted even if it tends to be slightly inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the orthogonal direction.

The tilt type steering apparatus of the present invention includes a vehicle body side bracket, a steering column, a steering column side bracket, and a tilt pivot shaft.
Of these, the vehicle body side bracket is fixed to the vehicle body.
Further, the steering column supports a steering shaft rotatably inside.
The steering column side bracket is fixed to a part of the steering column.
The tilt pivot shaft is inserted through the first through hole formed in the vehicle body side bracket and the second through hole formed in the steering column side bracket, and the steering column side bracket (and the steering column) is inserted. The steering column with the side brackets fixed thereto is swingably supported with respect to the vehicle body side brackets.
And at least in a virtual plane including the center axis of the tilt pivot axis and the axis that intersects the center axis of the tilt column and coincides with the center axis of the steering column or parallel to the center axis of the steering column, The central axis of the second through hole can be inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through hole.

Further, as a specific structure for carrying out the present invention, there is an invention described in claim 2.
That is, either one of the vehicle body side bracket and the steering column side bracket has a pair of support plate portions spaced apart from each other. And the front-end | tip part of the other bracket is arrange | positioned between these both support plate parts.
In addition, the tilt pivot shaft is supported in one through hole formed in both of the support plate portions so as not to tilt with respect to the one through hole, and the other through hole formed in the tip portion of the other bracket. Insert the hole.
Between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, at least a bush made of an elastic material such as a synthetic resin such as polyamide is disposed.
In addition, when one bracket is a vehicle body side bracket, one through-hole becomes the 1st through-hole described in Claim 1, and the other through-hole becomes a 2nd through-hole similarly. Conversely, when one bracket is a steering column side bracket, one through hole is the second through hole described in claim 1 and the other through hole is also the first through hole.

Further, when the invention described in claim 2 is carried out, preferably, as described in claim 3 or 4, the other passage formed on the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the tip of the other bracket is used. A cylindrical member and a bush are disposed between the inner peripheral surface of the hole.
Of these, the cylindrical member is fitted and fixed to the intermediate portion of the tilt pivot shaft, and both end surfaces abut against the inner side surfaces of both support plate portions of one bracket.
The bush includes a cylindrical portion and a pair of flanges that are bent radially outward from both ends of the cylindrical portion. And this cylindrical part is arrange | positioned between the outer peripheral surface of the said cylindrical member, and the inner peripheral surface of said other through-hole. At the same time, the flanges are respectively disposed between the inner side surfaces of the support plate portions and the periphery of both end openings of the other through hole on both side surfaces of the tip end portion of the other bracket.

  In the case of the invention described in claim 3, any one of the two side surfaces of the two flanges is inclined in a direction away from the mating surface as it goes radially outward. At the same time, at least one of the inner peripheral surface of the other through-hole, the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portion, and the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member is directed toward the both ends from the central portion. Tilt away from the other side.

On the other hand, in the case of the invention described in claim 4, the inner surface of each of the two flanges and at least the portion facing both the flanges on both side surfaces of the tip end portion of the other bracket are respectively connected to the second through holes. Is a partial spherical surface centered on the center of oscillation when tilting with respect to the central axis of the first through hole, or a tapered surface in contact with the partial spherical surface. At the same time, at least one of the inner peripheral surface of the other through-hole, the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portion, and the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member is directed toward the both ends from the central portion. Tilt away from the other side.
In the present specification and claims, the term “inclination” includes not only an inclined surface (tapered surface) having a linear cross section but also a curved surface (for example, a partial spherical surface) having an arcuate cross section.

  Further, when the invention described in claim 3 or 4 described above is carried out, the bush is preferably constituted by a pair of bush elements as described in claim 5. Then, in a state where these bush elements are assembled between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, a gap exists between these bush elements.

Preferably, when each of the above-described inventions is carried out, as described in claim 6, a vehicle body side bracket for supporting the steering column via a tilt pivot shaft, and the steering column are oscillated by the steering column. A second vehicle body side bracket that is swingably supported around the center is provided at a position separated from each other.
More preferably, as described in claim 7, each of the above-described inventions is applied to a structure including an electric actuator that swings the steering column as the electric motor is driven.

  Further, as described in claim 8, a driver operates the steering wheel at an intermediate portion of a steering shaft that is rotatably supported inside the steering column and has a steering wheel at a rear end portion. In the case of a structure provided with a speed reduction mechanism for transmitting the power of the electric motor to the steering shaft in order to reduce the force, the housing constituting the speed reduction mechanism and the steering column are attached to the steering column with a rigidity to be attached to the housing. It is preferable to couple via an elastic body to be lowered.

According to the tilt type steering device of the present invention configured as described above, the direction in which the steering column is disposed is orthogonal to the central axis of the first through hole for inserting the tilt pivot shaft formed in the vehicle body side bracket. Even if the inclination tends to be slightly inclined with respect to the direction parallel to the direction in which the steering column is tilted, the operability when the steering column is tilted can be improved.
That is, the second through hole can be inclined with respect to the first through hole formed in the steering column side bracket fixed to the steering column. The inclination can be absorbed even if the inclination tends to incline with respect to a direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through hole. When the tilt is swung, a force is generated between the steering column and the mounting portion (for example, the second vehicle body side bracket 6 described in FIGS. 17 and 18), or the tilt pivot shaft has an outer peripheral surface. It is possible to prevent the inner peripheral surface of the second through hole from coming into strong local contact. And the operability at the time of the tilt swing of the steering column can be improved.

  Further, at least a bush made of an elastic material is arranged between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole through which the tilt pivot shaft is inserted as described in claim 2. In this case, when the bush is elastically deformed, the central axis of the other through hole can be inclined with respect to the central axis of the one through hole. The other through hole and the one through hole respectively correspond to either the first through hole or the second through hole in claim 1.

In the case of the structure described in claim 3, the other through-hole can be smoothly inclined with respect to the one through-hole.
That is, when the steering column is inclined with respect to a direction parallel to a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the first through hole formed in the vehicle body side bracket, the steering column side bracket fixed to the steering column is also the vehicle body side bracket. Tilt against. In this case, of both the brackets, both side surfaces of the other bracket are inclined with respect to the inner surfaces of both support plate portions of the one bracket. Further, the central axis of the other through hole formed in the other bracket is inclined with respect to the central axis of the tilt pivot shaft fixed to the one through hole formed in the one bracket so as not to be inclined.

  Therefore, the both support plate portions are inclined by inclining any one of the both side surfaces of the both flanges of the bush, which are arranged between the inner side surfaces of the both support plate portions and the both side surfaces of the other bracket. It becomes easy to incline both the side surfaces of the other bracket with respect to the inner surface. Further, by tilting at least one of the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of both cylindrical portions of the bush, and the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member, the other This through hole is easy to be inclined with respect to the tilt pivot shaft. As a result, the other through hole can be inclined smoothly with respect to the one through hole that supports the tilt pivot shaft so as not to be inclined.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, at least the portions facing both flanges of the bush on both side surfaces of the tip of the other bracket move along the respective inner surfaces of these flanges. In this case, each of these surfaces is a spherical surface centered on the oscillation center when the central axis of the second through hole is inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through hole. Therefore, the central axis of the other through hole can be more smoothly inclined with respect to the central axis of the one through hole.

  Further, as described in claim 5, if the bush is composed of a pair of bush elements, and there is a gap between the two bush elements in the assembled state, the pair of bush elements constitutes one bracket. When connecting the support plate and the tip of the other bracket, the inner surfaces of the two support plates are arranged between the two support plates and both sides of the tip of the other bracket. The two flanges can be brought into strong contact with the outer surfaces of the flanges. As a result, the inner side surfaces of both flanges also come into strong contact with both side surfaces of the tip of the other bracket, and the support rigidity between the one bracket and the other bracket can be increased.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the vehicle body side bracket that supports the steering column via the tilt pivot shaft, and the steering column that supports the steering column in a swingable manner about the swing center of the steering column. In the case of the structure in which the second vehicle body side bracket is provided separately at positions separated from each other, an attachment error is likely to occur at the attachment portion between the second vehicle body side bracket and the steering column. Therefore, if the present invention is applied to such a structure, the effect of preventing the deterioration of the operability at the time of tilt swing of the steering column caused by this mounting error can be remarkably obtained.

  The present invention can also be applied to a structure in which the vehicle body side bracket and the second vehicle body side bracket are integrated, but such a structure is less likely to cause mounting errors as described above. However, weight is increased by integrating both the brackets. In recent years, the demand for weight reduction of automobiles has become stronger, and such an increase in weight is not preferable. Therefore, as described in claim 6, it is preferable to apply the present invention in a structure in which both the brackets are separated from the viewpoint of reducing the weight of the automobile.

In addition, as described in claim 7, when the present invention is applied to a tilt type steering device driven by an electric motor, the steering column can be tilted regardless of the driving force of the limited electric motor. Good operability.
Furthermore, as described in claim 8, when the electric power steering mechanism is incorporated, the steering column and the housing of the speed reduction mechanism are fastened via an elastic body that reduces the mounting rigidity of the steering column to the housing. For example, even if the steering column is attached with a tendency to be twisted or inclined, such a twist or inclination can be absorbed by the elastic body. As a result, the operability at the time of tilt swing of the steering column can be improved.

[First example of embodiment of the present invention]
FIGS. 1-8 has shown the 1st example of embodiment of this invention corresponding to Claims 1-3,6,7. In the case of this example, as shown in FIG. 1, the tilt type steering device 15 includes a steering shaft 2a having a steering wheel 1 fixed to the rear end (the right end in FIGS. 1 and 2 and the upper end in FIG. 5). Is supported rotatably inside the steering column 3a. The front end of the steering shaft 2a (the left end in FIGS. 1 and 2 and the lower end in FIG. 5) transmits rotational force to the input shaft of the steering gear 18 via the universal joints 16a and 16b and the intermediate shaft 17. Combined as possible. A pinion (not shown) is fixed to the input shaft, and the pinion is meshed with a rack (not shown). The pinion and the rack constitute a rack and pinion mechanism. With this configuration, when the steering shaft 2a is rotated, the tie rod 19 is pushed and pulled through the rack, and a desired steering angle is given to the steered wheels.

  In the case of this example, as shown in FIG. 2, the front end portion and the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a are separately supported. That is, the vehicle body side bracket 4a (see FIGS. 6 and 8, omitted in FIG. 2) for supporting the front end portion of the steering column 3a via the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a are connected to the tilt pivot. A second vehicle body side bracket 6a that is swingably supported around the shaft 5a is provided at a position separated from each other.

  A steering column side bracket 14a fixed to the front end portion of the steering column 3a is swingably supported on the tilt pivot shaft 5a supported by the vehicle body side bracket 4a. As a result, the front end portion of the steering column 3a is swingably supported by the vehicle body via the tilt pivot shaft 5a. The intermediate portion of the steering column 3a is supported by the second vehicle body side bracket 6a, which is fixed to the vehicle body and separate from the vehicle body side bracket 4a, so as to be swingable in the vertical direction. First, the support structure of the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a will be described with reference to FIGS. This example shows a structure including an electric actuator that swings the steering column 3a as the electric motor 20 is driven.

  An intermediate portion of the steering column 3a is supported to be movable up and down with respect to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. For this purpose, a moving member 21 that moves in the vertical direction by the power of the electric motor 20 is provided between the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. The moving member 21 is moved along a screw shaft 25 in which a nut member 23 disposed in a nut holder 22 constituting the moving member 21 is rotated via a worm reducer 24 by driving the electric motor 20. As you go up and down.

  That is, the worm speed reducer 24 includes a worm shaft 26 and a worm wheel 27. Then, the worm of the worm shaft 26, which is coupled to the end of the rotary shaft 28 of the electric motor 20 so as to be able to transmit power, and the worm wheel 27 are engaged with each other, and the power of the electric motor 20 is supplied to the worm wheel. 27 can be transmitted. The worm wheel 27 is coupled and fixed to the lower end portion of the screw shaft 25. For this reason, the screw shaft 25 rotates together with the worm wheel 27 by the power of the electric motor 20. As the screw shaft 25 rotates, the moving member 21 having the nut member 23 moves along the screw shaft 25.

  A shaft portion 29 is fixed to the side surface of the nut holder 22, and the tip half of the shaft portion 29 is loosely fitted into a support hole 30 formed in the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a. Further, the nut holder 22 can be displaced with respect to the nut member 23 in directions orthogonal to the screw shaft 25 and the shaft portion 29 (the left-right direction in FIG. 2 and the front-back direction in FIG. 3). Accordingly, when the electric motor 20 is driven, the nut member 23 moves up and down along the screw shaft 25, and the nut holder 22 moves relative to the nut member 23 in the left-right direction in FIG. 2 and the front-back direction in FIG. Further, the shaft portion 29 is rotated relative to the support hole 30. As a result, the steering column 3a is pivotally displaced in the vertical direction about the tilt pivot shaft 5a.

  In the case of this example, the pressing plate 31 is fixed in the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. That is, the second vehicle body side bracket 6a includes an attachment plate portion 32 for attachment to the vehicle body, and a first column support plate portion extending downward from one end portion (left end portion in FIG. 3) in the width direction of the attachment plate portion 32. 33 and a second column support plate portion 34 that extends downward from a portion near the rear end of the other end portion in the width direction (front end portion in FIG. 2). The lower ends of the first and second column support plate portions 33 and 34 are connected to each other by a bottom plate portion 35 (FIG. 3). The pressing plate 31 is fixed to the inner side surface of the first column support plate portion 33 by screws 36, 36. The inner surface of the pressing plate 31 is made parallel to the inner surface of the second column support plate portion 34 by adjusting the protruding amount of the screws 36 and 36 screwed into the first column support plate portion 33. Yes.

  In this way, the inner side surface of the pressing plate 31 and the inner side surface of the second column support plate portion 34, which are parallel to each other, are respectively arranged in the width direction of the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a (see FIG. 3). In the left-right direction, the height of the steering column 3a is guided to change or be opposed to or close to a pair of flat portions 37, 37 provided on both side portions. In addition, with the intermediate portion of the steering column 3 a disposed between the first and second column support plate portions 33, 34, the inner surface of the pressing plate 31 is placed on the flat surface portions 37, 37. The steering column 3a is pressed against the flat portion 37 on one side (left side in FIG. 3) to prevent the steering column 3a from rattling during swinging. Note that the support structure for the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a as described above is not the gist of the present invention, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, a support structure for the front end portion of the steering column 3a will be described. In the case of this example, the vehicle body side bracket 4a (FIGS. 6 and 8) fixed to the vehicle body and the steering column side bracket 14a fixed to the front end portion of the steering column 3a are connected by a tilt pivot shaft 5a. Of these, the vehicle body side bracket 4a has a pair of support plate portions 38, 38 spaced apart from each other. A pair of first through holes 39, 39 concentric with each other are formed at the tip end portions of both the support plate portions 38, 38.

  On the other hand, a second through hole 40 is formed at the tip of the steering column side bracket 14a. The second through hole 40 is aligned with the first through holes 39, 39 in a state where the tip end portion of the steering column side bracket 14a is disposed between the support plate portions 38, 38. The tilt pivot shaft 5a is inserted through the through holes 39 and 40. In the case of this example, at least a virtual plane (shown in FIG. 6) including a central axis α of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and an axis β intersecting with the central axis α and parallel to the central axis of the steering column 3a. In the plane, the central axis of the second through hole 40 can be inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39. For this purpose, a metal cylindrical member 44 and a polyamide resin are provided between the outer peripheral surface 42 of the circular flange portion 41 at the intermediate portion of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40. And a bush 45 made of an elastic material such as an elastomer such as rubber or vinyl.

  Of these, the cylindrical member 44 is fitted and fixed to the outer peripheral surface 42 of the circular flange 41 with almost no backlash. Further, both end surfaces of the cylindrical member 44 are parallel to the inner side surfaces 51 and 51 of the both support plate portions 38 and 38 and abut against the inner side surfaces 51 and 51, respectively. The bush 45 is formed by combining a pair of bush elements 46 and 46. Both bush elements 46 and 46 have an L-shaped cross section, and include a cylindrical portion 47 and a flange 48 that is bent radially outward from an end portion of the cylindrical portion 47. The cylindrical portions 47 and 47 are fitted onto the outer peripheral surface 49 of the cylindrical member 44 in a state where the leading edges of the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 of the bush elements 46 and 46 are brought into contact with each other or in close proximity to each other. is doing. As a result, the bush 45 composed of the both bush elements 46, 46 is disposed between the outer peripheral surface 49 and the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40.

  Further, the flanges 48, 48 formed at the respective end portions of the both bush elements 46, 46 are open at both ends of the second through hole 40 in both side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14a. It arrange | positions between the circumference | surroundings of the part and the inner side surfaces 51 and 51 of both the said support plate parts 38 and 38, respectively. And (in a state where the second through hole 40 is not inclined with respect to the first through hole 39, 39), a part (inner diameter side portion) of the outer side surfaces 52, 52 of the flanges 48, 48 is The inner side surfaces 53, 53 of both flanges 48, 48 are brought into contact with both side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14a on inner side surfaces 51, 51 of both support plate portions 38, 38, respectively.

  The tilt pivot shaft 5a is supported and fixed to the vehicle body side bracket 4a while being inserted into the first and second through holes 39, 40. That is, the head 54 provided at the base end portion of the tilt pivot shaft 5a is used as one of the support plates 38, 38 constituting the vehicle body side bracket 4a (left side in FIGS. 6 and 8). It is made to contact | abut on the outer surface of the part 38. FIG. At the same time, the inner side surface of the nut 56 screwed into the male screw portion 55 provided at the tip end portion of the tilt pivot shaft 5a is brought into contact with the other support plate portion 38 (right side in FIG. 6). By tightening the nut 56, the tilt pivot shaft 5a is supported and fixed to the vehicle body side bracket 4a. In the case of this example, both end surfaces of the cylindrical member 44 fitted and fixed to the tilt pivot shaft 5a are abutted against the inner side surfaces 51, 51 of the support plate portions 38, 38. The shaft 5a cannot tilt with respect to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39.

  In the case of this example, the outer side surfaces 52, 52 of the both side surfaces of the flanges 48, 48 of the bush 45, as shown in detail in FIG. The support plate portions 38 and 38 are curved in a direction away from the inner side surfaces 51 and 51. On the other hand, these inner side surfaces 51, 51 and both side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14a are parallel planes. Therefore, a wedge-shaped gap exists in the outer diameter side portion between the outer side surfaces 52, 52 of the flanges 48, 48 and the inner side surfaces 51, 51. However, the thickness in the free state of the base portions (radially central portions) of the flanges 48, 48 is the same as the distance between the inner side surfaces 51, 51 and the side surfaces 50, 50, It is slightly larger than this interval. And the base part of both the said flanges 48 and 48 is clamped between each said side surfaces 50 and 51, respectively, without rattling.

  As shown in FIG. 8 (B), the inner side surfaces 53, 53 of the flanges 48, 48 move away from both side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14a as they go radially outward. It may be curved. 5A and 5B show a structure in which the bush 45 shown in FIG. 8B is incorporated, with the vehicle body side bracket 4a omitted. In the illustrated example, the inner side surface 53 or the outer side surface 52 is curved, but an inclined surface having a straight section may be used.

  Furthermore, in the case of this example, as shown in detail in FIG. 7A, the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 formed in the steering column side bracket 14a is closer to both ends. The bush 45 is inclined in a direction away from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portions 47, 47. In other words, the inner diameter of the second through hole 40 is gradually increased from the center toward both ends. On the other hand, the outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portions 47, 47 are cylindrical surfaces parallel to the central axis of the tilt pivot shaft 5a. In other words, the outer diameters of the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 do not change in the axial direction. Further, the outer diameters of the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 in the free state are the same as or slightly larger than the inner diameter of the central portion of the second through hole 40. Then, in a state where the bush 45 is disposed in the second through hole 40, both the cylindrical portions 47, 47 of the bush 45 and the central portion of the second through hole 40 are fitted without rattling. I am trying to match.

  Accordingly, both the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 and the second through hole 40 are fitted with each other without rattling at the central portion, and the outer peripheral surfaces of the two cylindrical portions 47 and 47 and the second A wedge-shaped gap exists between the inner peripheral surface 43 of the through-hole 40. The inner peripheral surfaces of both the cylindrical portions 47 and 47, the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member 44, the outer peripheral surface 49, and the outer peripheral surface 42 of the circular flange portion 41 of the tilt pivot shaft 5a are respectively tilted. The cylindrical surface is parallel to the central axis of the pivot shaft 5a. In short, in this example, only the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 is inclined.

  According to the tilt type steering device 15 of the present example configured as described above, the steering column 3a is disposed in the first through hole 39 for inserting the tilt pivot shaft 5a formed in the vehicle body side bracket 4a. Even if the inclination tends to be inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of 39, the operability at the time of tilt swinging of the steering column 3a can be improved.

  That is, when the steering column 3a is inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39 formed in the vehicle body side bracket 4a, the steering column fixed to the steering column 3a. The side bracket 14a is also inclined with respect to the vehicle body side bracket 4a. Therefore, the first column formed on the steering column side bracket 14a in a virtual plane including the central axis α of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the axis β intersecting the central axis α and parallel to the central axis of the steering column 3a. The central axis of the second through hole 40 is inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39 formed in the vehicle body side bracket 4a.

  In this case, both side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14a are inclined with respect to the inner side surfaces 51, 51 of both support plate portions 38, 38 of the vehicle body side bracket 4a. At this time, the gaps between the side surfaces 50 and 51 are narrowed in part in the circumferential direction. However, in the case of this example, any one of the outer side surfaces 53 and 52 of the flanges 48 and 48 of the bush 45 disposed between the side surfaces 50 and 51 is the same as that described above. As shown in FIG. For this reason, a wedge-shaped gap exists on the outer diameter side between the side surfaces 50 and 51 and any one of the side surfaces. Therefore, the gap absorbs the inclination between the side surfaces 50 and 51.

  When the steering column side bracket 14a fixed to the steering column 3a is inclined with respect to the vehicle body side bracket 4a, the central axis of the second through hole 40 formed in the steering column side bracket 14a is the first axis. It inclines with respect to the center axis | shaft of the tilt pivot axis | shaft 5a fixed to the through-holes 39 and 39 so that it cannot incline. At this time, the gap between the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 and the outer peripheral surface 42 of the circular flange portion 41 of the tilt pivot shaft 5a is narrowed at a part on both ends in the axial direction. However, in the case of this example, the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 is inclined in a direction away from the outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 of the bush 45 toward the both ends from the center portion. . For this reason, wedge-shaped gaps exist at the portions near both ends between the outer peripheral surfaces of these cylindrical portions 47 and 47 and the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40. Accordingly, the gap absorbs the inclination of the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 with respect to the outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 of the bush 45.

  Thus, the outer diameter side portion between each of the side surfaces 50, 51 and either side surface of the flanges 48, 48, and the inner peripheral surface 43 and the outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portions 47, 47 Wedge-like gaps exist in the portions near the both ends, so that the inclination between the surfaces can be absorbed. For this reason, the central axis of the second through hole 40 can be inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39. When the steering column 3a is inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through holes 39, the steering column side bracket 14a fixed to the steering column 3a is It inclines smoothly with respect to the side bracket 4a. It should be noted that the angle θ {FIG. 5B, FIG. 6B) at which the steering column 3a is inclined with respect to the direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39 is an excess. Unless there is a certain degree of error, it is 1 degree or less.

  Therefore, in the case of this example, the steering column 3a is disposed in the middle of the steering column 3a in a state in which the steering column 3a is inclined with respect to a direction parallel to the direction perpendicular to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39. Even if the portion is attached to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a, this inclination can be absorbed. For this reason, during tilt swing, a force that competes between the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a is generated, and the outer peripheral surface 42 of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the second passage It can prevent that the inner peripheral surface 43 of the hole 40 contacts strongly locally. In particular, in the case of this example, the vehicle body side bracket 4a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a are separately provided at positions separated from each other, so that the intermediate between the second vehicle body side bracket 6a and the steering column 3a is provided. There is a possibility that an attachment error or the like is likely to occur at the attachment portion to the portion, and the steering column 3a is difficult to swing.

  For example, the inner side surface of the pressing plate 31 constituting the second vehicle body side bracket 6a, the inner side surface of the second column support plate portion 34, and the plane portions 37, 37 provided in the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a, However, they can tilt each other. In this case, the contact pressure increases and the frictional resistance increases at any part of the contact portions between the flat portions 37 and 37 and the inner surfaces, and the flat portions 37 and 37 are It becomes difficult to move smoothly on both inner surfaces. The steering column 3a is less likely to swing.

  On the other hand, in the case of this example, even if the flat portions 37 and 37 and the both inner side surfaces tend to be inclined with respect to each other due to an attachment error or the like, the inclination is absorbed. , 37 and the both side surfaces are kept parallel to each other, so that deterioration in operability when the steering column 3a is tilted can be prevented. Furthermore, in the case of this example, the structure is driven by the electric motor 20, but the operability when the steering column 3a tilts and swings can be improved regardless of the limited driving force of the electric motor 20.

  Further, in the case of this example, even if the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 is inclined with respect to the outer peripheral surface 42 of the circular flange portion 41 of the tilt pivot shaft 5a, at least both of these circumferences at the central portion. The surfaces 43 and 42 are fitted with each other through the bush 45 and the cylindrical member 44 without rattling. Therefore, the steering column 3a is swung around the fitting portion between the peripheral surfaces 43 and 42. At the same time, it is possible to prevent vertical backlash in the steering wheel 1. Further, the backlash in the left-right direction of the steering wheel 1 is such that the base portions of the flanges 48, 48 of the bush 45 are the inner side surfaces 51, 51 of the support plate portions 38, 38 and both side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14a. It can be prevented by being sandwiched between and without rattling.

[Second example of the embodiment of the present invention]
9 and 10 show a second example of an embodiment of the present invention corresponding to claims 1, 2, 4, and 5. FIG. In the case of this example, the bush 45a disposed between the outer peripheral surface 42 of the circular flange portion 41 of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 formed at the distal end portion of the steering column side bracket 14b. The inner side surfaces 53a and 53a of the flanges 48a and 48a provided at both end portions of the first and second end portions are formed as partially spherical concave surfaces. However, the direction in which these inner side surfaces 53a and 53a curve is different from the first example described above, and is the direction toward the mating surface as it goes radially outward. On the other hand, the outer surfaces 52a, 52a of the flanges 48a, 48a are flat surfaces parallel to the inner surfaces 51, 51 of the pair of support plate portions 38, 38 of the vehicle body side bracket 4a.

  Also in this example, as in the first example described above, the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portions 47a and 47a of the pair of bush elements 46a and 46a constituting the bush 45a are cylindrical surfaces. And the outer peripheral surface outer edge of both the cylindrical parts 47a and 47a and the inner peripheral surfaces 53a and 53a of the said flanges 48a and 48a are made to continue smoothly by the curved surface of circular arc cross section.

  In the case of this example, the portions 63, 63 facing both the inner side surfaces 53a, 53a of the both end surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14b are in the same direction as these inner side surfaces 53a, 53a. It is formed in a partially spherical convex surface that is curved in a straight line. Further, the centers of curvature of the inner side surfaces 53a, 53a and the parts 63, 63 are respectively set such that the central axis of the second through hole 40 is the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39 of the vehicle body side bracket 4a. This is the center of oscillation when tilting. In the illustrated example, the intersection P between the central axis α of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the axis β intersecting the central axis α and parallel to the central axis of the steering column is the center of curvature (see FIG. 9).

  Also in the case of this example, as in the first example described above, the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 of the steering column side bracket 14b is moved from the center to both ends so that the bush 45a The cylindrical portions 47a and 47a are inclined in a direction away from the outer peripheral surface. Further, chamfers are formed at both edge portions of the inner peripheral surface 43. That is, in the case of this example, the both parts 63, 63 facing the inner side surfaces 53 a, 53 a of the flanges 48 a, 48 a, of the tip side side surfaces 50, 50 of the steering column side bracket 14 b, are partially spherical convex surfaces. And curved in a direction approaching each other toward the outer side in the radial direction. For this reason, when the both parts 63 and 63 and the inner peripheral surface 43 are simply continued, the continuous part has an acute angle (sharp edge), and the both parts 63 and 63 are formed on the flanges 48a and 48a. It becomes difficult to slide along the inner side surfaces 53a and 53a. As a result, the steering column side bracket 14b is less likely to be smoothly inclined with respect to the bush 45a that is externally fitted to the tilt pivot shaft 5a via the cylindrical member 44. For this reason, chamfering is formed at both ends of the inner peripheral surface 43.

  In the case of this example, a gap 64 exists between the pair of bush elements 46a, 46a constituting the bush 45a. That is, the lengths of the cylindrical portions 47a, 47a of the bush elements 46a, 46a in the axial direction of the tilt pivot shaft 5a are respectively shorter than the structure of the first example. The bush elements 46a, 46a are connected to each other with the bush elements 46a, 46a assembled between the outer peripheral face 42 of the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the inner peripheral face 43 of the second through hole 40. The gap 64 exists between them.

  As described above, in the case of this example, the inner surfaces 53a and 53a of the flanges 48a and 48a of the bush 45a and the portions 63 and 63 of the steering column side bracket 14b facing the inner surfaces 53a and 53a, respectively, The second through hole 40 is formed in a partial spherical shape with the center of curvature as the center of curvature when the central axis of the second through hole 40 is inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through holes 39 and 39. Therefore, the steering column is disposed in a direction parallel to a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the first through holes 39, 39 formed in the vehicle body side bracket 4a for inserting the tilt pivot shaft 5a. Even when it tends to incline, both the parts 63, 63 slide smoothly along the inner side surfaces 53a, 53a. It should be noted that these parts 63 and 63 and the inner side surfaces 53a and 53a have a curvature at the center of oscillation when the central axis of the second through hole 40 is inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through hole 39. It is good also as a taper surface (partial conical surface) which contacts the center partial spherical surface.

  In the case of this example, a gap 64 exists between the bush elements 46a, 46a constituting the bush 45a. Therefore, when the pair of support plate portions 38, 38 constituting the vehicle body side bracket 4a and the front end portion of the steering column side bracket 14b are coupled, the inner side surfaces 51 of the both support plate portions 38, 38 are combined. , 51 with respect to the outer side surfaces 52a, 52a of both flanges 48a, 48a of the bush 45a, which are present between the both support plate portions 38, 38 and both side surfaces of the tip end portion of the steering column side bracket 14b. It is possible to make contact with an appropriate surface pressure.

  That is, when the vehicle body side bracket 4a and the steering column side bracket 14b (14a) are coupled, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 11A, the both support plates constituting the vehicle body side bracket 4a are used. The nut 56 is screwed and tightened to the tilt pivot shaft 5a in a state where the cylindrical member 44, the bush 45a (45), and the tip portion of the steering column side bracket 14b (14a) are disposed between the portions 38 and 38. 10B and 11B, the members 44, 45a (45), 14b (14a) are provided between the inner side surfaces 51, 51 of the support plate portions 38, 38. ).

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 11, in the case where the pair of bush elements 46, 46 constituting the bush 45a are in contact with each other in a state where the vehicle body side bracket 4a and the steering column side bracket 14a are coupled, The bush elements 46 and 46 are stretched by contact with each other, which is a resistance against the tendency that the distance between the support plate portions 38 and 38 tends to be narrowed. As a result, the surface pressure between the inner side surfaces 51, 51 of the both support plate portions 38, 38 and the outer surfaces 52, 52 of the flanges 48, 48 of the bush elements 46, 46 is reduced. That is, the inner side surfaces 51, 51 cannot be brought into contact with the outer side surfaces 52, 52 with sufficient surface pressure.

On the other hand, in the case of this example, as shown in FIG. 10, since the gap 64 exists between the pair of bush elements 46a, 46a constituting the bush 45a, both the support plate portions 38, 38 are provided. However, the bush elements 46a and 46a do not come into contact with each other and become a resistance. Therefore, the inner side surfaces 51, 51 can be brought into contact with the outer side surfaces 52a, 52a of the flanges 48a, 48a of the bush 45a with sufficient surface pressure. As a result, the inner side surfaces 53a, 53a of both flanges 48a, 48a also abut against the both parts 63, 63 on both side surfaces of the front end of the steering column side bracket 14b with sufficient surface pressure, and the vehicle body side bracket 4a Support rigidity with the steering column side bracket 14b can be increased. In the case of this example, the length of the cylindrical member 44 is set so that the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the nut 56 are screwed and tightened as described above, so that the inner side surfaces 51 and 51 of the both support plate portions 38 and 38 are connected to each other. The distance between the inner side surfaces 51 and 51 in the state where the members 44, 45a and 14b are sandwiched between them is the same. For this reason, the cylindrical member 44 does not become a resistance against the tendency that the distance between the support plate portions 38, 38 becomes narrow.
Other structures and operations are the same as those of the first example of the above-described embodiment.

[Third example of the embodiment of the present invention]
12 and 13 show a third example of an embodiment of the present invention corresponding to claims 6 to 8. In the case of this example, the structure of the present invention is applied to an electric power steering apparatus provided with an electric motor 65 and a speed reduction mechanism 66 in order to reduce the force required for the driver to operate the steering wheel 1 (see FIG. 1). is doing. For this reason, in the case of the present example, the electric motor is mounted on a portion near the front end (to the left in FIG. 12) of the intermediate portion of the steering shaft 2a, which is rotatably supported inside the steering column 3a and has the steering wheel 1 at the rear end. The speed reduction mechanism 66 that transmits the power of the motor 65 to the steering shaft 2a is provided. The speed reduction mechanism 66 includes, for example, a worm shaft and a worm wheel, and is provided in the middle of a power transmission path for transmitting power from the rotating shaft of the electric motor 65 to the steering shaft 2a. That is, the worm shaft is connected to the rotating shaft of the electric motor 65, and the worm wheel is fixed to the intermediate portion of the steering shaft 2a. The worm shaft and the worm wheel are engaged with each other, and the power of the electric motor 65 can be transmitted to the steering shaft 2a via the worm shaft and the worm wheel. In addition, since the structure of such a power transmission mechanism is known widely conventionally, and since it is not the summary of this example, detailed description and illustration are abbreviate | omitted.

  Also in this example, as in the first example described above, the screw shaft 25 supported by the second vehicle body side bracket 6a is rotated via the worm reducer by driving an electric motor (not shown), An electric tilt mechanism that adjusts the height position of the steering wheel 1 by moving the moving member 21 along the screw shaft 25 is configured. However, the moving member 21 and the steering column 3a are connected via a transmission member 77 formed in a crank shape. That is, one end portion of the transmission member 77 is coupled and fixed to the outside of the moving member 21, and the other end portion is coupled and fixed to a connection portion 78 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a. Thus, as the moving member 21 moves, the steering column 3a swings in the vertical direction via the transmission member 77 and the connecting portion 78. Other structures and operations of the tilt mechanism are the same as those in the first example.

  In the case of this example, the housing 67 constituting the speed reduction mechanism 66 and the steering column 3a are connected via an elastic body 68 (FIG. 13) for reducing the mounting rigidity of the steering column 3a to the housing 67. Are connected. For this reason, in the case of this example, the elastic body 68 such as rubber is provided around the middle portion of the plurality of bolts 71, 71 connecting the mounting plate 69 fixed to the steering column 3 a and the housing 67. Is arranged. That is, as shown in FIG. 14, conventionally, when the attachment plate portion 69 fixed to the steering column 3a is fastened to the housing 67 constituting the speed reduction mechanism 66, the through hole 70 formed in the attachment plate portion 69 is inserted. The bolt 71 is screwed and tightened into a screw hole 72 formed in a part of the housing 67 that is aligned with the through hole 70. The inner diameter of the through hole 70 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the base end portion of the male screw portion 73 of the bolt 71.

  On the other hand, in the case of this example, as shown in FIG. 13, the inner diameter of the through hole 70a formed in the mounting plate portion 69 of the steering column 3a is increased, the outer peripheral surface of the base end portion of the male screw portion 73 of the bolt 71, A relatively large gap is provided between the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 70a. In this gap, the spacer 74 and the elastic body 68 having sufficiently lower rigidity than the mounting plate portion 69 and the bolt 71 are disposed. Of these, the elastic body 68 is formed in an annular shape in which flanges 75, 75 projecting radially outward are provided on the outer peripheral surfaces of both end portions over the entire circumference. The distance between the two flange portions 75, 75 in the free state is the same as or slightly smaller than the thickness of the peripheral portion of the through hole 70a of the mounting plate 69. Accordingly, the axial width of the entire elastic body 68 in the free state is larger than the thickness of the peripheral portion of the through hole 70 of the mounting plate 69. The spacer 74 is made of metal and has a cylindrical shape as a whole, and has an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the base end portion of the male threaded portion 73 of the bolt 71. Further, the outer diameter is the same as or slightly larger than the inner diameter of the elastic body 68 in the free state. Further, the axial width of the spacer 74 is slightly smaller than the axial width of the elastic body 68 in the free state.

  When the elastic body 68 is incorporated into the through hole 70a of the mounting plate 69, the elastic body 68 is disposed in the through hole 70a in a state where the elastic body 68 is elastically compressed in the direction of decreasing the outer diameter. Then, the compressive force is released, and the peripheral portion of the through hole 70 a of the mounting plate portion 69 is sandwiched between the flange portions 75, 75 provided on the outer peripheral surface of the elastic body 68. The spacer 74 is fitted and fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the elastic body 68. Then, the through hole 70 a and the screw hole 72 formed in the housing 67 are aligned, the bolt 71 is inserted inside the spacer 74, and the male screw portion 73 is screwed and tightened into the screw hole 72. In this state, the elastic body 68 and the spacer 74 exist between the outer peripheral surface of the base end portion of the male screw portion 73 of the bolt 71 and the inner peripheral surface of the through hole 70 a of the mounting plate 69. Further, between one side surface (left side surface in FIG. 13) of the mounting plate portion 69 and the side surface of the housing 67, and the other side surface (right side surface in FIG. 13) of the mounting plate portion 69 and the head of the bolt 71. Between the portion 76, the both flange portions 75, 75 constituting the elastic body 68 are present. As a result, the mounting plate portion 69 and the housing 67 are coupled via the elastic body 68.

  In the case of this example configured as described above, even if the steering column 3a is attached to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a, for example, with a tendency to shift in the twisting direction indicated by the arrow A in FIG. The operability when tilting the steering column 3a can be improved. That is, as in this example, the housing 67 of the speed reduction mechanism 66 is coupled to the steering column 3a near the front end of the intermediate portion, and the rear end of the intermediate portion (rightward in FIG. 12) is attached to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. There is a possibility that the phase in the circumferential direction of the steering column 3a does not match between the coupling portion of the steering column 3a and the housing 67 and the mounting portion of the steering column 3a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. is there. For example, the phase shifts due to an attachment error at the attachment portion between the rear end of the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a or an attachment error of the second vehicle body side bracket 6a to the vehicle body. there is a possibility. If the phase is shifted in this way, the steering column 3a is attached to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a in a state twisted in the direction of the arrow A.

  In such a case, in the conventional structure shown in FIG. 14, the mounting plate portion 69 fixed to the steering column 3a is fixed to the housing 67 so as not to rotate, so that the steering column 3a is twisted. Directional force is applied. As a result, the surface pressure increases at a part of the contact portion between the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a and the inner side surfaces of the first and second column support plate portions 33 and 34 of the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. The steering column 3a is less likely to swing smoothly along the inner side surfaces of the column support plate portions 33 and 34. Then, there is a possibility that problems such as abnormal noise occur in the electric motor 65 may occur. On the other hand, in the case of this example, the aforementioned problem is prevented by coupling the steering column 3a to the housing 67 through the elastic body 68.

In the case of this example as well, the tilt pivot shaft 5a and the vehicle body side bracket (not shown) are coupled so as to be tiltable in the same manner as in the first and second examples. However, in the case of a structure in which the housing 67 constituting the speed reduction mechanism 66 is coupled to the steering column 3a near the front end of the intermediate portion and the rear end of the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a is attached to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a, the tilt Regardless of the structure of the connecting portion between the pivot shaft 5a and the vehicle body side bracket, the steering column 3a may be fixed in a twisted state with respect to the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. Therefore, if the steering column 3a and the housing 67 are coupled via the elastic body 68 as in this example, the elastic body 68 can absorb the twist. In other words, the steering column 3a can be slightly rotated with respect to the housing 67. As a result, the phase in the circumferential direction of the steering column 3a between the coupling portion of the steering column 3a and the housing 67 and the mounting portion of the steering column 3a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a are matched. It is possible to prevent the surface pressure from increasing at a part of the contact portion between the intermediate portion of the steering column 3a and the second vehicle body side bracket 6a. And the operability at the time of tilt swing of the steering column 3a can be improved. Even if the steering column 3a tends to incline in the direction indicated by the arrow B in FIG. 12 with respect to the housing 67, such an inclination can be absorbed by the elastic bodies 68 arranged in the bolts 71 and 71.
Other structures and operations are the same as those in the first example of the above-described embodiment or the above-described second example.

  In each example of the above-described embodiment, the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 is inclined, but the inclined surface is the bush 45 other than the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40. Any one of the outer peripheral surfaces and the outer peripheral surface 49 of the cylindrical member 44 among the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 (47a, 47a) of (45a) may be used. For example, in FIG. 15A, the outer peripheral surfaces of both cylindrical portions 47 and 47 of the bush 45 are inclined in a direction away from the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through hole 40 toward the both end portions. In other words, the outer diameters of the cylindrical portions 47, 47 are made smaller toward the both end portions. On the other hand, in FIG. 15B, the outer peripheral surface 49 of the cylindrical member 44 is inclined in a direction away from the inner peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portions 47 and 47 of the bush 45 toward the both end portions. In other words, the outer diameter of the cylindrical member 44 is made smaller toward the both ends. In any case, of the inner peripheral surface 43 of the second through-hole 40, the outer peripheral surfaces of both the cylindrical portions 47 and 47, and the outer peripheral surface 49, the non-inclined surface is The cylindrical surface is parallel to the central axis of the tilt pivot shaft 5a.

  In addition, although not described in each example of the above-described embodiment, the present invention is naturally applicable to a tilt type steering apparatus and a structure having a telescopic function. The structure shown in FIGS. 1 to 8 described above also has a telescopic function. Such a telescopic function will be briefly described with reference to FIG. The steering column 3a is formed by fitting an inner column 58 inside the outer column 57 so as to be slidable in the axial direction. A third column support plate portion 59 is fixed to an intermediate portion of the inner column 58 among them. This third column support plate portion 59 is driven by an electric motor 60 via a worm speed reducer 61, and a distal end portion of a push-pull rod 62 that is extendable in the axial direction of the inner column 58 is fixed. . Then, by driving the electric motor 60, the push-pull rod 62 is pushed and pulled so that the inner column 58 is movable in the axial direction with respect to the outer column 57. Thereby, the steering shaft 2a rotatably supported inside the inner column 58 is moved in the axial direction together with the inner column 58, and the steering wheel 1 fixed to the rear end portion of the steering shaft 2a is operated as described above. The position of the column 3a in the axial direction can be adjusted.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an overall structure of a tilt type steering device according to a first example of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a vehicle. FIG. 3 is a side view of the tilt type steering device with a part thereof omitted. AA sectional drawing of FIG. BB sectional drawing of FIG. A case where the central axis of the steering column coincides with a direction parallel to the direction orthogonal to the central axis of the first through hole and a case where the steering column is inclined are partly omitted and viewed from the upper side of FIG. Figure. Sectional drawing of the coupling | bond part of a vehicle body side bracket and a steering column side bracket which each shows the case where the central axis of a 2nd through-hole corresponds with the central axis of a 1st through-hole, and the case where it inclines. Sectional drawing and side view of the 2nd through-hole part of a steering column side bracket. The partial expanded sectional view which shows two examples of a bush in the state arrange | positioned between the vehicle body side bracket and the steering column side bracket. The figure similar to FIG. 6 (A) which shows the 2nd example of embodiment of this invention. Similarly, a steering column side bracket, a bush, and a cylindrical member are arranged on the vehicle body side bracket, and show a state before tightening the bolt and a state after tightening the bolt, respectively. . The structure is such that there is no gap between the two bush elements, and the steering column side bracket, bush and cylindrical member are arranged on the body side bracket, and shows the state before tightening the bolt and the state where the bolt is tightened. Sectional drawing of the coupling | bond part of a vehicle body side bracket and a steering column side bracket. The perspective view which shows the 3rd example of embodiment of this invention. Similarly, the fragmentary sectional view which shows the coupling | bond part of the attachment plate part of a steering column, and the housing of a reduction mechanism. The figure similar to FIG. 13 which shows an example of the conventional structure. The figure similar to FIG. 6 (A) which shows two other examples of the connection part structure of a vehicle body side bracket and a steering column side bracket. The partial cross section figure which shows another example of a steering device for demonstrating a telescopic function. The side view which shows an example of the conventionally known tilt type steering apparatus. FIG. 18 is an enlarged CC sectional view of FIG. 17.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Steering wheel 2, 2a Steering shaft 3, 3a Steering column 4, 4a Car body side bracket 5, 5a Tilt pivot shaft 6, 6a Second car body side bracket 7 Vertical plate part 8 Long hole 9 Lifting bracket 10 Side plate part 11 Through hole 12 Tilt bolt 13 Tilt lever 14, 14a, 14b Steering column side bracket 15 Tilt type steering device 16a, 16b Universal joint 17 Intermediate shaft 18 Steering gear 19 Tie rod 20 Electric motor 21 Moving member 22 Nut holder 23 Nut member 24 Warm reducer 25 Screw shaft 26 Worm shaft 27 Worm wheel 28 Rotating shaft 29 Shaft portion 30 Support hole 31 Pressing plate 32 Mounting plate portion 33 First column support plate portion 34 Second column support plate portion 35 Bottom plate portion 36 37 Plane portion 38 Support plate portion 39 First through hole 40 Second through hole 41 Circular flange portion 42 Outer peripheral surface 43 Inner peripheral surface 44 Cylindrical member 45, 45a Bush 46, 46a Bush element 47, 47a Cylindrical portion 48, 48a Flange 49 Outer peripheral surface 50 Side surface 51 Inner side surface 52, 52a Outer side surface 53, 53a Inner side surface 54 Head 55 Male thread portion 56 Nut 57 Outer column 58 Inner column 59 Third support plate portion 60 Electric motor 61 Warm speed reducer 62 Push-pull rod 63 Portion 64 Clearance 65 Electric motor 66 Deceleration mechanism 67 Housing 68 Elastic body 69 Mounting plate part 70, 70a Through hole 71 Bolt 72 Screw hole 73 Male thread part 74 Spacer 75 Eave part 76 Head part 77 Transmission member 78 Connection part

Claims (8)

  A vehicle body side bracket that is fixed to the vehicle body, a steering column that rotatably supports a steering shaft, a steering column side bracket that is fixed to a part of the steering column, and a first passage formed on the vehicle body side bracket. A tilt pivot shaft that is inserted through a hole and a second through hole formed in the steering column side bracket, and swingably supports the steering column side bracket with respect to the vehicle body side bracket. The second through hole in a virtual plane including a central axis of the shaft and an axis that intersects the central axis of the tilt pivot axis and coincides with the central axis of the steering column or is parallel to the central axis of the steering column. Tilt-type steering whose central axis is tiltable with respect to the central axis of the first through hole Location.   Either one of the bracket on the vehicle body side and the bracket on the steering column side has a pair of support plate portions spaced apart from each other, and the tip end portion of the other bracket is disposed between the two support plate portions. The tilt pivot shaft is supported by the one through hole formed in both of the support plate portions so that the tilt pivot shaft cannot be tilted with respect to the one through hole. The tilt type steering apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least a bush is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole.   A cylindrical member and a bush are disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through-hole formed at the tip of the other bracket. It is fitted and fixed to the middle part of the shaft, and both end surfaces are abutted against the inner side surfaces of both support plate parts of one bracket, and the bush has a cylindrical part and both ends of this cylindrical part radially outward. The cylindrical portion is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, and both the flanges are connected to the two supporting plate portions. The inner side surface is disposed between the both end surfaces of the other bracket on the both side surfaces of the tip end portion of the other bracket, and either side surface of the both side surfaces of the both flanges is arranged. , Opponents as they go radially outward At least one of the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portion, and the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member from the central portion. The tilt type steering device according to claim 2, wherein the tilt type steering device is inclined in a direction away from the mating surface as it goes toward both ends.   A cylindrical member and a bush are disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through-hole formed at the tip of the other bracket. It is fitted and fixed to the middle part of the shaft, and both end surfaces are abutted against the inner side surfaces of both support plate parts of one bracket, and the bush has a cylindrical part and both ends of this cylindrical part radially outward. The cylindrical portion is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, and both the flanges are connected to the two supporting plate portions. Arranged between the inner side surface and both ends of the tip end of the other bracket and around the opening of both ends of the other through hole, the inner side surfaces of the two flanges and the tip end of the other bracket At least these on both sides The portion facing the flange is a partial spherical surface centered on the oscillation center when the central axis of the second through hole is inclined with respect to the central axis of the first through hole, or the partial spherical surface. At least one of the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole, the inner and outer peripheral surfaces of the cylindrical portion, and the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical member, The tilt type steering apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the tilt type steering apparatus is inclined in a direction away from the mating surface as it goes toward both ends.   The bush consists of a pair of bush elements, and there is a gap between the two bush elements in a state where both the bush elements are assembled between the outer peripheral surface of the tilt pivot shaft and the inner peripheral surface of the other through hole. The tilt type steering apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein:   The vehicle body side bracket that supports the steering column via the tilt pivot shaft and the second vehicle body side bracket that supports the steering column so as to be swingable around the swing center of the steering column are separated from each other. The tilt type steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the tilt type steering device is provided separately at a position.   The tilt type steering apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising an electric actuator that swings the steering column as the electric motor is driven.   In order to reduce the force required for the driver to operate the steering wheel, the power of the electric motor is applied to the middle part of the steering shaft that is rotatably supported inside the steering column and has a steering wheel at the rear end. A speed reduction mechanism for transmitting to the steering shaft is provided, and the housing constituting the speed reduction mechanism and the steering column are coupled via an elastic body that reduces the mounting rigidity of the steering column to the housing. The tilt type steering apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 7.

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