JP5707952B2 - Vehicle steering device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle steering apparatus provided with a transmission that changes the rotation speed of a right drive wheel and the rotation speed of a left drive wheel to a magnitude corresponding to a transmission gear ratio.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a three-wheeled bicycle that controls the rotation of the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel. The three-wheel bicycle includes one front wheel and two rear wheels, and a bevel gear provided between the right rear wheel and the left rear wheel. The bevel gear changes the rotation speed of the right rear wheel and the rotation speed of the left rear wheel to be different from each other.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 56-146692

  However, since the three-wheeled bicycle of Patent Document 1 changes the steering angle by operating the handle directly connected to the front wheel by hand, for example, it is difficult to operate the handle like a disabled person. For the person, the burden on the steering of the bicycle is large.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a vehicle steering apparatus that can reduce the burden on the driver for steering.

  [1] A vehicle steering apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes an operating member to be operated, a straight speed ratio that is a speed ratio for rotating the right driving wheel and the left driving wheel at substantially the same rotational speed, and A transmission capable of setting a turning gear ratio, which is a gear ratio for rotating the right driving wheel and the left driving wheel at different rotational speeds, and a change for changing the gear ratio by operating a mechanism in the transmission A connecting member that is connected to a member and the operation member and operates the changing member so that the transmission gear ratio is changed from the rectilinear transmission gear ratio to the turning transmission gear ratio by being pulled according to the operation of the operation member. And a return device including an elastic member that operates the change member so that the transmission gear ratio changes from the turning transmission gear ratio to the rectilinear transmission gear ratio by applying a reaction force to the connecting member.
  [2] According to an example of the vehicle steering device, the connection member is a wire.
  [3] According to an example of the vehicle steering device, the return device further includes an interlocking member that interlocks with the connection member, and the interlocking member deforms the elastic member when the connection member is pulled, The elastic member applies a reaction force to the connecting member via the interlocking member.
  [4] According to an example of the vehicle steering device, the return device is disposed between a housing that supports the elastic member, the elastic member, and the interlocking member, and is in contact with the housing while contacting the housing. The cylinder further includes a movable cylinder, and the cylinder is pushed by the interlocking member to deform the elastic member, and the movement of the cylinder at that time is guided by the housing.
  [5] According to an example of the vehicle steering apparatus, the vehicle includes a pair of operation members, and the connection member connects one operation member and the other operation member.
  [6] According to an example of the vehicle steering device, the change member is connected to an input shaft of the transmission, and the connection member is connected to the change member.
  [7] The vehicle steering apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is provided with a transmission that changes the rotation speed of the right drive wheel and the rotation speed of the left drive wheel to a magnitude corresponding to a transmission gear ratio. A change member is provided for operating the mechanism in the apparatus to change the gear ratio, and the gear ratio when the vehicle goes straight is defined as the straight gear ratio, and the gear ratio when the vehicle turns is the turning gear. The operating state of the transmission when the transmission ratio is the straight transmission ratio is a straight running operation state, and the operating state of the transmission when the transmission ratio is the turning transmission ratio is a turning operation state. A return device for returning the operation state of the transmission from the turning operation state to the straight operation state, an operation device for driving the change member, and a driver for the operation device. Manipulated by An operating member to be operated and a connecting member for driving the changing member by a force input to the operating member, and the speed ratio changes from the turning speed ratio toward the straight speed ratio. The operation of the change member is a return speed change operation, and a force for moving the change member to the return speed change is applied from the return device to the connection member, and the return device moves relative to the connection member. A member, an interlocking member interlocked with the connecting member, and an elastic member provided on the opposite side of the interlocking member with respect to the relative movement member in the moving direction of the interlocking member, the change Between the member and the operation member, the interlocking member, the relative movement member, and the elastic member are provided in this order, and the speed ratio is changed linearly. The operation of the changing member that changes from the ratio toward the turning gear ratio is the turning speed change operation, the direction in which the interlocking member approaches the relative movement member is the approaching direction, and the interlocking member is separated from the relative movement member. When the connecting member moves in the approaching direction by operating the operating member with the direction set as the separation direction, the changing member performs the turning speed change operation, and the speed change device is turned by the operation member operation. When in the state, a force for causing the changing member to perform the return shifting operation by the restoring force of the elastic member is applied to the connecting member via the relative moving member and the interlocking member.
  [8] According to an example of the vehicle steering device, a right-hand operating device and a left-hand operating device are provided as the operating device, and the operating device is operated by operating an operating member of the right-hand operating device. When the interlocking member moves in the approaching direction, in the left-hand operating device, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the separation direction and the change member performs the turning speed change operation. When the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction by the operation of the operating member, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the separating direction and the change member moves in the turning speed in the right-hand operating device. The restoring force of the elastic member of the right-hand operating device when the transmission is in the turning motion state by the operation of the operating member of the right-hand operating device. In the operating device, the force for operating the changing member to perform the return shifting operation is applied to the connecting member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member of the operating device, and the operating member of the operating device for the left hand When the transmission is in the turning operation state by the operation of the above, the force that causes the changing member to perform the return shift operation in the operation device by the restoring force of the elastic member of the left-hand operation device is the relative movement member of the operation device And applied to the connecting member via the interlocking member.
  [9] The vehicle steering apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is provided with a transmission that changes the rotation speed of the right drive wheel and the rotation speed of the left drive wheel to a magnitude corresponding to a transmission ratio. A change member is provided for operating the mechanism in the apparatus to change the gear ratio, and the gear ratio when the vehicle goes straight is defined as the straight gear ratio, and the gear ratio when the vehicle turns is the turning gear. The operating state of the transmission when the transmission ratio is the straight transmission ratio is a straight running operation state, and the operating state of the transmission when the transmission ratio is the turning transmission ratio is a turning operation state. A return device for returning the operation state of the transmission from the turning operation state to the straight operation state, an operation device for driving the change member, and a driver for the operation device. Manipulated by An operating member to be operated and a connecting member for driving the changing member by a force input to the operating member, and the speed ratio changes from the turning speed ratio toward the straight speed ratio. The operation of the change member is a return speed change operation, and the force for moving the change member to the return speed change operation is applied from the return device to the connection member. As the operation devices, a right hand operation device and a left hand operation device are provided. The return device includes a relative moving member that moves relative to the connecting member, an interlocking member that interlocks with the connecting member, and the interlocking with respect to the relative moving member in the moving direction of the interlocking member. An elastic member provided on the opposite side of the member, and between the change member and the operation member, the elastic member, the relative movement member, and the front These components are provided in the order of the interlocking member, and the operation of the changing member in which the speed ratio changes from the straight speed ratio to the turning speed ratio is referred to as a turning speed change operation, and the interlocking member is the relative speed The direction approaching the moving member is the approaching direction, the direction in which the interlocking member is separated from the relative moving member is the separating direction, and the interlocking member of the operating device is operated in the separating direction by operating the operating member of the right-hand operating device. In the left-hand operating device, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction and the changing member performs the turning speed change operation, and the operation is performed by operating the operating member of the left-hand operating device. When the interlocking member of the device moves in the separating direction, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction in the right-hand operating device. In the operation device, when the change member performs the turning speed change operation and when the transmission device is in the turning operation state by the operation of the operation member of the right hand operation device, the restoring force of the elastic member of the left hand operation device A force for causing the changing member to perform the return shifting operation is applied to the connecting member via the relative moving member and the interlocking member of the operating device, and the shifting member is operated by operating the operating member of the left-hand operating device. When the device is in the turning operation state, the force that causes the changing member to perform the return shift operation in the operating device by the restoring force of the elastic member of the right-hand operating device causes the relative moving member and the interlocking member of the operating device to move. Via the connecting member.
  [10] According to an example of the vehicle steering device, a first end portion that is an end portion on the interlocking member side of the elastic member is attached to the relative movement member, and the return device includes: A first housing and a second housing capable of moving relative to each other in the approaching direction and the separating direction; and an end portion of the elastic member opposite to the interlocking member side. Two ends are attached to the second housing.
  [11] According to an example of the vehicle steering apparatus, the operation member includes a steering lever coupled to the connection member, and a braking lever for braking the right driving wheel and the left driving wheel.

  According to the steering devices [1] to [11], since the vehicle turns by changing the gear ratio, the steering angle of the steered wheels is changed by operating the handle connected to the steered wheels. This reduces the burden on the driver for steering. Moreover, since the reaction force of the elastic member of the return device is applied to the change member, the running stability during straight travel is improved. Further, the reaction force of the elastic member acts as a reaction force against the operation of the operation member. For this reason, the operability when the driver operates the operation member is improved.
  According to the steering device of [7], when the connecting member moves in the approaching direction as the operating member is operated, the connecting member, the interlocking member, and the relative moving member integrally move in the approaching direction, and the elastic member Deformation is caused by contact with the relative movement member. Thereafter, when the reaction force of the elastic member exceeds the force applied to the operation member as the force applied to the operation member decreases, the relative movement member moves in the separation direction by the reaction force of the elastic member. At this time, since the relative movement member and the interlocking member are in contact with each other, the reaction force of the elastic member that causes the changing member to perform the return shifting operation is transmitted to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member. For this reason, the operation state of the transmission returns from the turning operation state to the straight operation state.
  According to the steering device of [8], when the operating member of the right hand operating device or the left hand operating device is operated, the connecting member of the right hand operating device or the left hand operating device moves in the approaching direction. The interlocking member and the relative movement member are integrally moved in the approaching direction, and the elastic member is deformed by contact with the relative movement member. Thereafter, when the reaction force of the elastic member exceeds the force applied to the operation member as the force applied to the operation member decreases, the relative movement member moves in the separation direction by the reaction force of the elastic member. At this time, since the relative movement member and the interlocking member are in contact with each other, the reaction force of the elastic member that causes the changing member to perform the return shifting operation is transmitted to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member. For this reason, the operation state of the transmission returns from the turning operation state to the straight operation state.
  According to the steering device of [9], when one operating member of the right-hand operating device and the left-hand operating device is operated, the connecting member corresponding to the operating member moves in the approaching direction. The member and the relative movement member integrally move in the approaching direction, and the elastic member is deformed by contact with the relative movement member. Thereafter, when the reaction force of the elastic member exceeds the force applied to the operation member due to a decrease in the force applied to the operation member, the other relative movement member of the right-hand operation device and the left-hand operation device reacts with the reaction force of the elastic member. It moves in the separation direction by force. At this time, since the relative movement member and the interlocking member are in contact with each other, the reaction force of the elastic member that causes the changing member to perform the return shifting operation is transmitted to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member. For this reason, the operation state of the transmission returns from the turning operation state to the straight operation state.
  According to the steering apparatus of [10], the second housing moves in the approaching direction or the separating direction with respect to the first housing, so that the reaction force of the elastic member in a state where the interlocking member is not pressed against the relative movement member. The size of a certain preload changes. For this reason, for example, the preload of the elastic member of the right-hand operating device and the left-hand operating device can be individually changed according to the characteristics of the vehicle, and the difference in turning speed can be reduced.
  According to the steering apparatus of [11], since the lever for steering and braking exists in the operation member corresponding to one hand, the operation for steering and braking can be performed with one hand.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the steering apparatus of the vehicle which can reduce the burden concerning a driver | operator for steering can be provided.

The schematic diagram which shows typically the whole structure about 1st Embodiment of the steering apparatus of the vehicle of this invention. Sectional drawing which shows the continuously variable transmission and the cross-sectional structure of its periphery about the steering device of the vehicle of the embodiment. Sectional drawing which shows the cross-section of the operating device in the state which the steering lever is not operated, and the state which each housing | casing has a reference | standard positional relationship about the steering device of the vehicle of the embodiment. Sectional drawing which shows the cross-section of the operating device in the state which the steering lever was operated, and the state which each housing | casing has a reference | standard positional relationship about the steering device of the vehicle of the embodiment. Sectional drawing which shows the cross-section of the operating device in the state which the steering lever is not operated, and the state which the outer housing moved with respect to the inner housing about the vehicle steering device of the embodiment. Sectional drawing which shows the cross-section of the operating device and return device in the state by which the steering lever was operated and each housing was in the reference | standard positional relationship about 2nd Embodiment of the steering device of the vehicle of this invention.

(First embodiment)
An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the vehicle steering device of the present invention is embodied as a three-wheeled bicycle steering device. In the following description, “front”, “rear”, “left” and “right” directions are based on the driver of the tricycle.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the three-wheeled bicycle 1 includes a body 10 as a main body to which each component is attached, a right rear wheel 15 and a left rear wheel 16 as driving wheels, and one front wheel 14 as a driven wheel. And a steering device 2 that changes the rudder angle of the front wheel 14 is provided. In addition to this, a driving device 20 for the driver to input power to the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16, and a power transmission device for transmitting power from the driving device 20 to the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16. 30, a continuously variable transmission 50 that shifts the rotation of the drive device 20, and an operating device 60 that allows the driver to change the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50. The steering device 2 includes a continuously variable transmission 50 and an operation device 60.

  The body 10 includes a main frame 11 to which one front wheel 14 is attached, a support frame 12 to which the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16 are attached, and a stem 13 to which each lever for operation by the driver is attached. Is provided.

  The front wheel 14 is rotatably supported by a front axle 14 </ b> A fixed to the main frame 11. The right rear wheel 15 is rotatably supported by a right rear axle 15A fixed to the support frame 12. The left rear wheel 16 is rotatably supported by a left rear axle 16A fixed to the support frame 12.

  The drive device 20 includes a right foot pedal 21 and a left foot pedal 21 for a driver to pedal, a drive shaft 22 that transmits the rotation of each pedal 21 to the power transmission device 30, and a drive shaft 22 that is rotatably supported. A first bearing 23 is provided. The first bearing 23 is fixed to the main frame 11.

  The continuously variable transmission 50 includes an input shaft 52 to which rotation of the drive device 20 is input, an input disk 51 that rotates integrally with the input shaft 52, and an output shaft that transmits rotation after shifting to the left rear wheel 16. 54 and an output disk 53 that rotates integrally with the output shaft 54 are provided. In addition, two balls 55 that are provided between the input disk 51 and the output disk 53 and transmit the rotation from the input disk 51 to the output disk 53, and the input disk 51, the output disk 53, and each ball 55 are accommodated. A casing 56 is provided.

  The power transmission device 30 is provided with a drive sprocket 31 fixed to the drive shaft 22, an input sprocket 32 fixed to the input shaft 52, and an output sprocket 33 fixed to the output shaft 54. Further, the transmission shaft 41 that transmits the rotation from the right side to the left side of the body 10 across the main frame 11, the second bearing 42 that rotatably supports the transmission shaft 41, and the right end portion of the transmission shaft 41 are fixed. A right intermediate sprocket 34 and a left intermediate sprocket 35 fixed to the left end of the transmission shaft 41 are provided. Further, a right rear wheel sprocket 36 fixed to the right rear axle 15A and a left rear wheel sprocket 37 fixed to the left rear axle 16A are provided.

  In the power transmission device 30, the following is provided as a chain for transmitting power between sprockets. That is, the input chain 43 wound around the drive sprocket 31, the input sprocket 32, and the right rear wheel sprocket 36, the right output chain 44 wound around the output sprocket 33 and the right intermediate sprocket 34, and the left intermediate sprocket 35. And a left output chain 45 wound around the left rear wheel sprocket 37.

A detailed configuration of the continuously variable transmission 50 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the continuously variable transmission 50, each ball 55 is supported by the input support surface 51A of the input disk 51 and the output support surface 53A of the output disk 53. When each ball 55 rotates, the ball 55 is respectively against the input transmission surface 51B as a curved surface formed on the input support surface 51A and the output transmission surface 53B as a curved surface formed on the output support surface 53A. Slide.

  Inside the continuously variable transmission 50, there is provided a screw mechanism (not shown) for changing the inclination of the rotary shaft 55A with respect to the input disk 51 and the output disk 53. The input shaft 52 is provided with a drum 61 for operating the screw mechanism by the force input to the steering lever 63 of FIG. The drum 61 and the steering lever 63 are connected to each other by a wire 65. The drum 61 corresponds to a “change member”.

A transmission mode of the continuously variable transmission 50 will be described.
When the inclination of the rotation shaft 55A of the ball 55 is changed, the distance between the portion where the ball 55 contacts the input transmission surface 51B and the rotation shaft 55A (hereinafter referred to as “first working radius R1”), and the output transmission surface The distance between the portion where the ball 55 contacts 53B and the rotation shaft 55A (hereinafter referred to as “second working radius R2”) is changed. That is, the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is changed.

  As shown in FIG. 2A, when the rotation shaft 55A of the ball 55 is inclined, that is, in the axial direction of the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54, the radial direction from the input shaft 52 side toward the output shaft 54 side. When the rotary shaft 55A is inclined from the outside toward the inside, the second action radius R2 is larger than the first action radius R1. As a result, the rotational speed of the output shaft 54 becomes larger than the rotational speed of the input shaft 52, that is, the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 becomes larger than the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15, so that the three-wheeled bicycle 1 moves rightward. To do.

  As shown in FIG. 2B, when the rotation shaft 55A of the ball 55 is inclined, that is, in the axial direction of the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54, the radial direction from the input shaft 52 side toward the output shaft 54 side. When the rotation shaft 55A is inclined from the inside toward the outside, the first action radius R1 becomes larger than the second action radius R2. As a result, the rotational speed of the output shaft 54 becomes smaller than the rotational speed of the input shaft 52, that is, the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 becomes smaller than the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15. To do.

  When the rotation shaft 55A of the ball 55 is not inclined with respect to the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54, that is, when the rotation shaft 55A is parallel to the center lines of the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54, the first working radius R1 The second working radius R2 has the same size. For this reason, the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is set to “1: 1”.

  In the following, the gear ratio when the second working radius R2 is larger than the first working radius R1 and the gear ratio when the first working radius R1 is larger than the second working radius R2 are respectively referred to as “turning gear ratio”. Equivalent to. Further, the transmission gear ratio when the first working radius R1 and the second working radius R2 are the same size corresponds to the “straight-running gear ratio”. In addition, the operation state of the continuously variable transmission 50 when the speed ratio is the straight speed ratio is referred to as a “straight forward operation state”. Further, the operation state of the continuously variable transmission 50 when the gear ratio is the turning gear ratio is referred to as a “turning operation state”. Further, the operation of the drum 61 in which the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes from the turning gear ratio toward the straight gear ratio is referred to as a “return gear shifting operation”. The operation of the drum 61 in which the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes from the straight gear ratio to the turning gear ratio is referred to as a “turning gear shifting operation”.

With reference to FIG. 1, the power transmission mode in the three-wheeled bicycle 1 will be described.
In the three-wheeled bicycle 1, the power generated by the depression operation of the pedal 21 by the driver is transmitted to the input shaft 52 via the drive sprocket 31, the input chain 43, and the input sprocket 32. Power from the pedal 21 is transmitted to the right rear wheel 15 via the input chain 43, the right rear wheel sprocket 36, and the right rear axle 15A.

  The power transmitted to the input shaft 52 is transmitted to the output shaft 54 via the input disk 51 and the output disk 53, and then to the transmission shaft 41 via the output sprocket 33, the right output chain 44, and the right intermediate sprocket 34. Communicated. The power of the transmission shaft 41 is transmitted to the left rear wheel 16 via the left intermediate sprocket 35, the left output chain 45, the left rear wheel sprocket 37, and the left rear axle 16A.

  As described above, the power input to the pedal 21 is transmitted to the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16 through the power transmission path constituted by each sprocket and each chain, thereby generating a thrust in the three-wheeled bicycle 1. As a result, the front wheel 14 rotates and the three-wheeled bicycle 1 moves forward or backward.

A turning operation of the tricycle 1 will be described.
When the driver moves the three-wheel bicycle 1 to the right, the driver increases the amount of operation of the steering lever 63 for the right hand. At this time, the rotation axis 55A of the ball 55 is inclined with respect to the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54 in accordance with the movement amount of the wire 65, and the second action radius R2 becomes larger than the first action radius R1. As a result, the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 becomes higher than the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15, so that the three-wheeled bicycle 1 moves right due to this rotational speed difference.

  When the driver moves the three-wheeled bicycle 1 to the left, the driver increases the amount of operation of the left-hand steering lever 63. At this time, the rotation axis 55A of the ball 55 is inclined with respect to the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54 in accordance with the movement amount of the wire 65, and the first action radius R1 becomes larger than the second action radius R2. As a result, the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15 becomes larger than the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16, and the three-wheeled bicycle 1 moves to the left due to this rotational speed difference.

  When the driver returns the three-wheeled bicycle 1 from rightward or leftward to straight, the driver returns the steering lever 63 from the rightward or leftward operation state to the straight operation state. At this time, the wire 65 is pulled back so that the rotation shaft 55A of the ball 55 is parallel to the input shaft 52 and the output shaft 54, and the first working radius R1 and the second working radius R2 have the same size. As a result, the difference between the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15 and the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 is eliminated, and the three-wheeled bicycle 1 goes straight.

With reference to FIG. 3, the detailed structure of the operating device 60 is demonstrated.
The three-wheeled bicycle 1 is provided with a right-hand operation device 60R and a left-hand operation device 60L as the operation devices 60. The operation devices 60R and 60L have a common configuration except that they are symmetrically configured with respect to the center line in the left-right direction of the three-wheeled bicycle 1 as a reference. The configuration of each operation device 60R, 60L will be described using. Further, the portion described as “operation device 60” indicates both the right-hand operation device 60R and the left-hand operation device 60L.

  The operating device 60 is provided with a drum 61 that drives a screw mechanism provided inside the continuously variable transmission 50 and a handle 62 that is operated by the driver to change the gear ratio. In addition to this, the wire 65 that transmits the operation of the handle 62 to the drum 61, the wire stay 66 that guides the movement of the wire 65, the wire tube 67 that protects the wire 65, and the operating state of the continuously variable transmission 50 are shown. A return device 70 for returning from the turning operation state to the straight operation state is provided.

  The handle 62 includes a steering lever 63 for operating the steering angle of the front wheel 14 by changing the transmission ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50, and a braking lever for applying a braking force to the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16. 64 are arranged in the vertical direction. When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 is “0”, the wire 65 is not gripped by the lever 63. On the other hand, when the operation amount of the steering lever 63 is greater than “0”, the wire 65 is gripped by the lever 63, so that the wire 65 moves in conjunction with an increase in the operation amount of the steering lever 63.

  The wire 65 of the right-hand operating device 60R and the wire 65 of the left-hand operating device 60L are connected to each other. For this reason, when one steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R and the left-hand operating device 60L is operated, the wire 65 moves in both the operating devices 60R and 60L in conjunction therewith. The handle 62 corresponds to an “operation member”. The wire 65 corresponds to a “connecting member”.

  The return device 70 is provided with an inner housing 71 in which a space is formed, and an outer housing 72 attached to the outer periphery of the inner housing 71. In addition, a clip 73 fixed to the wire 65, a cylinder 74 that can move relative to the housing 71 in the inner housing 71, a spring 75 that is compressed by the cylinder 74, and the inner housing 71 A stopper 76 that restricts the movement of the cylinder 74 at the opening is provided. The spring 75 is provided on the opposite side of the clip 73 with respect to the cylinder 74 in the moving direction of the clip 73.

  Between the drum 61 and the steering lever 63, these components are provided in the order of the clip 73, the cylinder 74, and the spring 75. The cylinder 74 and the spring 75 are provided in the inner housing 71. The clip 73 is provided in the inner housing 71 when the steering lever 63 is not operated.

  The cylinder 74 is formed with an oil reservoir 74A for holding lubricating oil. The oil reservoir 74 </ b> A is formed by two annular grooves that open to the inner peripheral surface side of the inner housing 71 on the outer peripheral surface of the cylinder 74.

  In the spring 75, a first end portion 75 </ b> A that is an end portion on the clip 73 side is attached to the cylinder 74. Further, a second end portion 75 </ b> B that is an end portion on the opposite side to the clip 73 side is attached to the outer housing 72.

  The inner housing 71 corresponds to a “first housing”. The outer housing 72 corresponds to a “second housing”. The clip 73 corresponds to an “interlocking member”. The cylinder 74 corresponds to a “relative movement member”. The spring 75 corresponds to an “elastic member”. Hereinafter, a direction in which the clip 73 approaches the cylinder 74 is referred to as an “approach direction”. A direction in which the clip 73 is separated from the cylinder 74 is referred to as a “separation direction”.

  A male screw 71 </ b> A is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner housing 71. A female screw 72 </ b> A is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer housing 72. In the inner housing 71 and the outer housing 72, the male screw 71A and the female screw 72A are engaged with each other. Therefore, by rotating the outer housing 72 relative to the inner housing 71, the position of the outer housing 72 relative to the inner housing 71 in the axial direction (hereinafter referred to as “housing relative position”) can be changed. That is, the inner housing 71 and the outer housing 72 are combined in a state in which relative movement is possible in the approach direction and the separation direction.

  With reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, operations of the operation device 60 and the return device 70 will be described. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional structure of the operating device 60 when the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R is operated.

  As shown in FIG. 3, when the steering levers 63 of both the right hand operating device 60R and the left hand operating device 60L are not operated, the length of the spring 75 is a natural length. At this time, the clip 73 is in contact with the cylinder 74, but the wire 65 is not pressed against the cylinder 74. Further, since the rotational position of the drum 61 is held at the neutral position, the transmission ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is maintained at the straight transmission ratio.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L is operated, that is, the operation amount of the steering lever 63 is changed from “0” to a state where the operation amount is larger than “0”. When this happens, the wire 65 of the operating device 60L moves in the approaching direction. At this time, the drum 61 rotates as the wire 65 moves in the approaching direction. That is, the drum 61 performs a turning speed change operation. For this reason, the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is changed from the straight gear ratio to the turning gear ratio.

  When the steering lever 63 is operated, the clip 73 moves together with the wire 65 in the approaching direction. Further, since the clip 73 is pressed against the cylinder 74 as the clip 73 moves in the approaching direction, the cylinder 74 also moves in the approaching direction. That is, the wire 65, the clip 73, and the cylinder 74 are integrally moved in the approaching direction. Further, since the spring 75 is compressed as the cylinder 74 moves, the length of the spring 75 is shorter than the natural length.

  In the right-hand operating device 60R, the wire 65 of the operating device 60R moves in the separating direction as the wire 65 is moved by the left-hand operating device 60L. At this time, the clip 73 moves together with the wire 65 in the separating direction. In the right-hand operating device 60R, since the wire 65 is not gripped by the steering lever 63, the position of the cylinder 74 and the length of the spring 75 are not changed.

  After the operation of the steering lever 63, when a force is continuously applied to the lever 63 so that the amount of operation of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L is constant, the cylinder 74 is used in the operating device 60L. Thus, the state in which the spring 75 is contracted is maintained. That is, the operating state of the continuously variable transmission 50 is held in the turning operation state.

  Thereafter, when the force applied to the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L is loosened, and the spring force of the spring 75 exceeds the force pulling the wire 65 in the approaching direction, the operating device 60L is driven by the spring force of the spring 75. Cylinder 74 moves in the separating direction. At this time, since the clip 73 is in contact with the cylinder 74, the clip 73 also moves in the separating direction as the cylinder 74 moves. The drum 61 rotates toward the neutral position by the movement of the wire 65 accompanying the movement of the clip 73. That is, the drum 61 performs a return turning operation. For this reason, the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is changed from the turning gear ratio to the straight gear ratio.

  When the spring 75 returns to the natural length state as the wire 65 moves, the clip 73 returns to the initial position in each of the left-hand operating device 60L and the right-hand operating device 60R. Further, the rotational position of the drum 61 is returned to the neutral position. In addition, the operation state of the continuously variable transmission 50 is returned to the straight operation state. It should be noted that the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R is “0”, the operation amount is larger than “0”, and the operation amount becomes “0” again in accordance with the above description. In this manner, the wire 65, the drum 61, the continuously variable transmission 50, and the like operate.

Below, the summary of operation | movement of each operating device 60L and 60R is shown.
When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L and the right-hand operating device 60R is “0”, the wire 65, the clip 73, and the cylinder 74 are held at the initial positions. Further, the rotation position of the drum 61 is held at the neutral position. Further, the operation state of the continuously variable transmission 50 is maintained in the straight operation state.

  When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L increases, the clip 73 and the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60L move in the approaching direction. Further, in the right-hand operating device 60R, the clip 73 of the operating device 60R moves in the separation direction. Further, the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60R does not move. Further, the drum 61 performs a turning speed change operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio increases.

  When the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L is held at an operation amount larger than “0”, that is, when the continuously variable transmission 50 is in a turning operation state, the spring force of the spring 75 of the left-hand operating device 60L As a result, a force that causes the drum 61 to perform a return speed change operation in the operating device 60L is applied to the wire 65 via the cylinder 74 and the clip 73.

  When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L decreases, the clip 73 and the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60L move in the separating direction. Further, in the right-hand operating device 60R, the clip 73 of the operating device 60R moves in the approaching direction. Further, the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60R does not move. In addition, the drum 61 performs a return shift operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio becomes smaller.

  When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R increases, the clip 73 and the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60R move in the approaching direction. Further, in the left-hand operating device 60L, the clip 73 of the operating device 60L moves in the separation direction. Further, the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60L does not move. Further, the drum 61 performs a turning speed change operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio increases.

  When the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R is held with an operation amount larger than “0”, that is, when the continuously variable transmission 50 is in a turning operation state, the spring force of the spring 75 of the right-hand operating device 60R As a result, the force that causes the drum 61 to perform the return speed change operation is applied to the wire 65 via the cylinder 74 and the clip 73 in the operating device 60R.

  When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R decreases, the clip 73 and the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60R move in the separation direction. Further, in the left-hand operating device 60L, the clip 73 of the operating device 60L moves in the approaching direction. Further, the cylinder 74 of the operating device 60L does not move. In addition, the drum 61 performs a return shift operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio becomes smaller.

A method for adjusting the preload of the spring 75 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the return device 70, by changing the relative position of the housing, the length of the spring 75 in a state where the clip 73 is not pressed against the cylinder 74 (hereinafter referred to as “the pre-compression length of the spring 75”), that is, the spring 75. The size of the preload can be changed.

  When the magnitude of the preload of the spring 75 is changed, the magnitude of the reaction force against the operation of the steering lever 63 by the driver is changed, so that the amount of operation of the lever 63 with respect to the force applied by the driver to the steering lever 63 is also increased. Be changed. The operation amount decreases as the preload of the spring 75 increases.

  The housing relative position is defined as a “reference relative position” where the inner housing 71 is accommodated to the maximum in the outer housing 72, and a position where the inner housing 71 projects from the outer housing 72 to the maximum “maximum protruding position”. In this case, it is possible to change between the reference relative position and the maximum protruding position.

  When the housing relative position is the reference relative position, the pre-compression length of the spring 75 is the shortest. On the other hand, when the housing relative position is the maximum projecting position, the pre-compression length of the spring 75 is the longest.

  In the operating device 60, the housing relative position can be changed as described above. Therefore, the reaction force against the operation of the steering lever 63 can be changed by changing the housing relative position when the three-wheeled bicycle 1 is not operated. It becomes possible to adjust the size to a required size.

(effect)
According to the three-wheeled bicycle 1 of the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.
(1) The steering device 2 of the three-wheeled bicycle 1 includes a continuously variable transmission 50 that changes the rotational speeds of the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16 and a drum 61 that changes the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50. Is provided.

According to this configuration, when the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 of the right rear wheel 15 from varying further the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is changed to differ from each other, the rudder angle of the front wheels 14 Be changed. For this reason, compared with the case where the structure which changes the steering angle of the front wheel 14 by operation of the steering wheel connected with the front wheel 14 is used, the burden on a driver | operator for steering can be made small. In addition, when a person with a disability in the upper limb (for example, a person with weak hand power or a person who cannot move his / her arm) gets on the three-wheeled bicycle 1, the three-wheeled bicycle is compared with the case on the three-wheeled bicycle assumed above. The bicycle 1 can be easily driven.

  (2) The steering device 2 of the three-wheel bicycle 1 is provided with a return device 70 that returns the operation state of the continuously variable transmission 50 from the turning operation state to the straight operation state. According to this configuration, when the force for operating the steering lever 63 is loosened, or when the force for operating the steering lever 63 is removed, the transmission gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 is changed from the turning gear ratio to the straight gear ratio. Therefore, the running stability when the vehicle goes straight is improved.

  (3) In the steering device 2 of the three-wheeled bicycle 1, a force that causes the drum 61 to perform a return shift operation is applied from the return device 70 to the wire 65. According to this configuration, the force applied to the wire 65 from the return device 70 acts as a reaction force against the operation of the steering lever 63 by the driver. For this reason, compared with the case where the reaction force with respect to operation of the steering lever 63 does not arise, the operativity when a driver | operator operates the lever 63 improves.

  (4) In the steering device 2 of the three-wheeled bicycle 1, the pre-compression length of the spring 75 can be changed independently in the right-hand operating device 60R and the left-hand operating device 60L. According to this configuration, for example, in a vehicle equipped with the steering device 2, when the speed when turning right is higher than the speed when turning left, the preload of the spring 75 of the right-hand operating device 60 </ b> R is reduced to the left-hand operating device 60 </ b> L. By making it larger than the preload of the spring 75, the difference in turning speed can be reduced.

  (5) In the steering device 2 of the three-wheel bicycle 1, the return device 70 is provided corresponding to each of the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R and the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L. According to this configuration, unlike the configuration in which, for example, one spring is provided on the rotation shaft of the drum 61 to return the rotation position of the drum 61, the steering lever 63 of either the right-hand operation device 60R or the left-hand operation device 60L Even when the operation amount decreases, the wire 65 can be pulled back appropriately.

  (6) In the steering device 2 of the three-wheel bicycle 1, the steering lever 63 and the braking lever 64 are provided on the handle 62. According to this configuration, the brake operation and the steering operation can be performed with one of the right hand and the left hand.

  (7) In the steering device 2 of the three-wheeled bicycle 1, the input shaft 52 of the continuously variable transmission 50 and the right rear wheel 15 are rigidly connected by a sprocket and a chain. Further, the output shaft 54 and the left rear wheel 16 are connected to a rigid by a sprocket and a chain.

  According to this configuration, power in the forward direction or the reverse direction is directly transmitted from the input shaft 52 to the right rear wheel 15. Further, power in the forward direction or the reverse direction is directly transmitted from the output shaft 54 to the left rear wheel 16. For this reason, the problem arises in the configuration in which the one-way clutch is provided between at least one of the input shaft 52 and the right rear wheel 15 and between the output shaft 54 and the left rear wheel 16, that is, the idle rotation of the one-way clutch occurs. Can be suppressed. As a result, torque acts on the lower rotational speed of each of the rear wheels 15 and 16 and the rotational speed difference between the rear wheels 15 and 16 becomes large, so that a decrease in steering performance is suppressed.

(Second Embodiment)
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The three-wheeled bicycle 1 according to the present embodiment corresponds to the three-wheeled bicycle 1 according to the first embodiment in which the following changes are added. That is, in the return device 70 of the first embodiment, these components are provided between the drum 61 and the steering lever 63 in the order of the clip 73, the cylinder 74, and the spring 75. On the other hand, in the return device 80 of this embodiment, these components are provided between the drum 61 and the steering lever 63 in the order of the spring 75, the cylinder 74, and the clip 73.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the three-wheeled bicycle 1 of the present embodiment will be described focusing on the above-described changes from the first embodiment. In addition, about the structure which is common in 1st Embodiment, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and the one part or all part of the description is abbreviate | omitted suitably.

  The return device 80 is provided with an inner housing 81 fixed to the handle 62 and an outer housing 82 attached to the outer periphery of the inner housing 81. In addition, a clip 83 fixed to the wire 65, a piston 84 that can move with respect to the housing 81 in the inner housing 81, a spring 85 that is compressed by the piston 84, and the inner housing 81 A stopper 86 that restricts the movement of the piston 84 at the opening is provided. The spring 85 is provided on the side opposite to the clip 83 with respect to the piston 84 in the moving direction of the clip 83.

  Between the drum 61 and the steering lever 63, these components are provided in the order of the spring 85, the piston 84, and the clip 83. The piston 84 and the spring 85 are provided in the inner housing 81. The clip 83 is provided in the inner housing 81 when the steering lever 63 is not operated.

  A first end 85 </ b> A that is an end of the spring 85 on the clip 83 side is attached to the piston 84. The outer housing 82 is attached with a second end 85B which is an end of the spring 85 opposite to the clip 83 side.

  In the inner housing 81, an oil reservoir 81B is formed in the same manner as the oil reservoir 74A of the first embodiment. In the inner housing 81 and the outer housing 82, the male screw 81A and the female screw 82A are meshed with each other in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The outer housing 82 is fixed to the steering lever 63.

The operation of each operation device 60R, 60L will be described.
When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L and the right-hand operating device 60R is “0”, the wire 65, the clip 83, and the piston 84 are held at the initial positions. Further, the rotation position of the drum 61 is held at the neutral position. Further, the operation state of the continuously variable transmission 50 is maintained in the straight operation state.

When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L increases, the clip 83 of the operating device 60L moves in the separating direction. Further, the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60L does not move. In the right-hand operating device 60R, the clip 83 and the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60R move in the approaching direction. Further, the drum 61 performs a turning speed change operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio increases.

  When the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L is held at an operation amount larger than “0”, that is, when the continuously variable transmission 50 is in a turning operation state, the spring force of the spring 85 of the right-hand operating device 60R. As a result, a force that causes the drum 61 to perform a return speed change operation is applied to the wire 65 via the piston 84 and the clip 83 in the operating device 60R.

When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the left-hand operating device 60L decreases, the clip 83 of the operating device 60L moves in the approaching direction. Further, the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60L does not move. In the right-hand operating device 60R, the clip 83 and the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60R move in the separating direction. In addition, the drum 61 performs a return shift operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio becomes smaller.

When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R increases, the clip 83 of the operating device 60R moves in the separation direction. Further, the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60R does not move. In the left-hand operating device 60L, the clip 83 and the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60L move in the approaching direction. Further, the drum 61 performs a turning speed change operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio increases.

  When the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R is held at an operation amount larger than “0”, that is, when the continuously variable transmission 50 is in a turning operation state, the spring force of the spring 85 of the left-hand operating device 60L As a result, the force that causes the drum 61 to perform the return speed change operation in the operating device 60L is applied to the wire 65 via the piston 84 and the clip 83.

When the operation amount of the steering lever 63 of the right-hand operating device 60R decreases, the clip 83 of the operating device 60R moves in the approaching direction. Further, the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60R does not move. In the left-hand operating device 60L, the clip 83 and the cylinder 84 of the operating device 60L move in the separating direction. In addition, the drum 61 performs a return shift operation. Further, the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 changes in a direction in which the deviation from the straight speed ratio becomes smaller.

(effect)
According to the three-wheeled bicycle 1 of the present embodiment, effects according to the effects (1) to (7) of the first embodiment can be obtained.

(Other embodiments)
Note that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified as shown below, for example. The following modifications are not applied only to the above embodiments, and different modifications can be combined with each other.

  In each of the above embodiments, the power transmission device 30 that transmits power by using a sprocket and a chain is used, but a pulley and a belt may be used instead of the sprocket and the chain.

  In each of the above embodiments, a configuration is adopted in which the steering angle of the front wheel 14 is changed by making the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15 and the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 different from each other by the continuously variable transmission 50. The configuration for changing the rudder angle is not limited to the contents exemplified in the embodiment. For example, the steering angle of the right front wheel and the left front wheel can be changed by providing the right front wheel and the left front wheel and making the rotational speed of the right front wheel different from that of the left front wheel by a continuously variable transmission. In this case, both the configuration including the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16 as rear wheels and the configuration including only one rear wheel can be employed as in the above embodiment.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the continuously variable transmission 50 having two balls 55 is used, but a continuously variable transmission having one or three or more balls 55 can also be used. Further, instead of the two balls 55, a continuously variable transmission having a disk may be used.

  In each of the above embodiments, the continuously variable transmission 50 uses a gear whose gear ratio is changed by operating the steering lever 63 of the handle 62. However, the configuration for changing the gear ratio is changed as follows, for example. You can also That is, the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 can be changed in conjunction with the driver's waist angle. Further, the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission 50 can be changed in conjunction with the depression amount of the pedal 21.

  In each of the above embodiments, the right rear wheel 15 and the left rear wheel 16 as drive wheels are rotated by the power input in accordance with the driver's operation of the pedal 21, that is, by the driver's operation of the pedal 21. Although power is obtained, instead of this, a three-wheeled vehicle can be configured as a vehicle that obtains power by an electric motor or an internal combustion engine.

  In each of the above embodiments, the continuously variable transmission 50 is used as the transmission, but the transmission is capable of making the rotational speed of the right rear wheel 15 and the rotational speed of the left rear wheel 16 different from each other. If present, a transmission different from the continuously variable transmission 50 can be used.

  In each of the above embodiments, the configuration in which the present invention is applied to the three-wheeled bicycle 1 is illustrated, but the present invention can also be applied to a four-wheeled bicycle, a four-wheeled vehicle, and a left and right motor. Also in this case, the effect according to the effect of the embodiment can be obtained by carrying out the present invention in the aspect according to each of the above embodiments.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Three-wheel bicycle, 2 ... Steering device, 10 ... Body, 11 ... Main frame, 12 ... Support frame, 13 ... Stem, 14 ... Front wheel, 14A ... Front axle, 15 ... Right rear wheel, 15A ... Right rear axle, 16 ... left rear wheel, 16A ... left rear axle, 20 ... drive device, 21 ... pedal, 22 ... drive shaft, 23 ... first bearing, 30 ... power transmission device, 31 ... drive sprocket, 32 ... input sprocket, 33 ... output Sprocket, 34 ... right intermediate sprocket, 35 ... left intermediate sprocket, 36 ... right rear wheel sprocket, 37 ... left rear wheel sprocket, 41 ... transmission shaft, 42 ... second bearing, 43 ... input chain, 44 ... right output chain, 45 ... left output chain, 50 ... continuously variable transmission, 51 ... input disc, 51A ... input support surface, 51B ... input transmission surface, 52 ... input shaft, 53 ... output disc, 53A Output support surface, 53B ... output transmission surface, 54 ... output shaft, 55 ... ball, 55A ... rotary shaft, 56 ... casing, 60 ... operating device, 60R ... right hand operating device, 60L ... left hand operating device, 61 ... drum (Change member), 62 ... handle (operation member), 63 ... steering lever (steering lever), 64 ... brake lever (brake lever), 65 ... wire (connecting member), 66 ... wire stay, 67 ... wire tube, 70 ... Return device (return device), 71 ... Inner housing (first housing), 71A ... Male screw, 72 ... Outer housing (second housing), 72A ... Female screw, 73 ... Clip (interlocking member), 74 ... Cylinder (relative movement) Member), 74A ... oil sump, 75 ... spring (elastic member), 75A ... first end (first end), 75B ... second end (second end), 76 ... spring 80 ... Return device (return device), 81 ... Inner housing (first housing), 81A ... Male screw, 82 ... Outer housing (second housing), 82A ... Female screw, 83 ... Clip (interlocking member), 84 ... Piston (relative movement member), 85... Spring (elastic member), 85A... First end (first end), 85B... Second end (second end).

Claims (11)

  An operating member to be operated;
  A straight gear ratio that is a gear ratio for rotating the right driving wheel and the left driving wheel at substantially the same rotational speed, and a gear ratio that rotates the right driving wheel and the left driving wheel at mutually different rotational speeds. A transmission capable of setting a turning gear ratio;
  A change member for operating the mechanism in the transmission to change the transmission ratio;
  A connecting member that is connected to the operating member and operates the changing member so that the speed ratio is changed from the straight speed ratio to the turning speed ratio by being pulled according to the operation of the operating member;
  A return device including an elastic member that operates the change member so that the transmission gear ratio is changed from the turning transmission gear ratio to the rectilinear transmission gear ratio by applying a reaction force to the connecting member;
  A vehicle steering apparatus comprising:   The connecting member is a wire
  The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1.   The return device further includes an interlocking member that interlocks with the connection member,
  The interlocking member deforms the elastic member by pulling the connecting member,
  The elastic member applies a reaction force to the connecting member via the interlocking member.
  The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.   The return device further includes a housing that supports the elastic member, and a cylinder that is disposed between the elastic member and the interlocking member and is movable with respect to the housing while being in contact with the housing.
  The cylinder is pressed by the interlocking member to deform the elastic member, and the movement of the cylinder at that time is guided by the housing.
  The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 3.   A pair of operating members;
  The connection member connects one operation member and the other operation member.
  The vehicle steering apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   The change member is connected to the input shaft of the transmission,
  The connection member is connected to the change member
  The vehicle steering apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. A transmission device is provided for changing the rotational speed of the right drive wheel and the rotational speed of the left drive wheel to a magnitude corresponding to the gear ratio;
A changing member is provided for operating the mechanism in the transmission to change the transmission ratio;
The transmission ratio when the vehicle goes straight is defined as the straight transmission ratio, the transmission ratio when the vehicle turns is defined as the turning transmission ratio, and the operating state of the transmission when the transmission ratio is the straight transmission ratio is the straight-ahead operation. And a return device for returning the operation state of the transmission from the turning operation state to the straight operation state, wherein the operation state of the transmission when the speed ratio is the turning speed ratio is set as the turning operation state. That
An operating device for driving the changing member is provided;
The operation device is provided with an operation member operated by a driver and a connection member that drives the change member by a force input to the operation member.
The operation of the change member that changes the gear ratio from the turning gear ratio toward the straight gear ratio is defined as a return gear shift operation, and a force that causes the change member to perform the return gear shift operation is applied from the return device to the connection member. That
The return device includes a relative moving member that moves relative to the connecting member, an interlocking member that interlocks with the connecting member, and a side opposite to the interlocking member with respect to the relative moving member in a moving direction of the interlocking member. An elastic member provided in
These components are provided in the order of the interlocking member, the relative movement member and the elastic member between the change member and the operation member,
The operation of the changing member in which the speed ratio changes from the straight speed ratio toward the turning speed ratio is a turning speed change operation, the direction in which the interlocking member approaches the relative movement member is an approaching direction, and the interlocking member is When the connecting member moves in the approaching direction by the operation of the operating member, with the direction away from the relative moving member as the separating direction, the changing member performs the turning speed change operation,
In addition, when the transmission device is in the turning operation state by the operation of the operation member, a force that causes the change member to perform the return shift operation by the restoring force of the elastic member is transmitted through the relative movement member and the interlocking member. A steering apparatus for a vehicle, characterized in that the steering apparatus is attached to a connection member. As the operation device, a right-hand operation device and a left-hand operation device are provided,
When the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction by the operation of the operating member of the righthand operating device, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the separating direction and the change in the left-hand operating device. The member performs the swivel shift operation;
When the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction by the operation of the operating member of the left hand operating device, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the separating direction and the change in the operating device for the right hand The member performs the swivel shift operation;
When the transmission device is in the turning operation state by operating the operation member of the right-hand operation device, the restoring force of the elastic member of the right-hand operation device causes a force to cause the change member to perform the return shift operation in the operation device. Being provided to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member of the operating device;
In addition, when the transmission is in the turning operation state by operating the operation member of the left-hand operation device, the return member performs the return shift operation in the operation device by the restoring force of the elastic member of the left-hand operation device. A force is applied to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member of the operating device.
The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 7 . A transmission device is provided for changing the rotational speed of the right drive wheel and the rotational speed of the left drive wheel to a magnitude corresponding to the gear ratio;
A changing member is provided for operating the mechanism in the transmission to change the transmission ratio;
The transmission ratio when the vehicle goes straight is defined as the straight transmission ratio, the transmission ratio when the vehicle turns is defined as the turning transmission ratio, and the operating state of the transmission when the transmission ratio is the straight transmission ratio is the straight-ahead operation. And a return device for returning the operation state of the transmission from the turning operation state to the straight operation state, wherein the operation state of the transmission when the speed ratio is the turning speed ratio is set as the turning operation state. That
An operating device for driving the changing member is provided;
The operation device is provided with an operation member operated by a driver and a connection member that drives the change member by a force input to the operation member.
The operation of the change member that changes the gear ratio from the turning gear ratio toward the straight gear ratio is defined as a return gear shift operation, and a force that causes the change member to perform the return gear shift operation is applied from the return device to the connection member. That
As the operation device, a right-hand operation device and a left-hand operation device are provided,
The return device includes a relative moving member that moves relative to the connecting member, an interlocking member that interlocks with the connecting member, and a side opposite to the interlocking member with respect to the relative moving member in a moving direction of the interlocking member. An elastic member provided in
These components are provided in the order of the elastic member and the relative movement member and the interlocking member between the change member and the operation member,
An operation of the change member, in which the speed ratio changes from the straight speed ratio to the turning speed ratio, is a turning speed change operation, a direction in which the interlocking member approaches the relative movement member is an approaching direction, and the interlocking member is A direction away from the relative movement member is a separation direction,
When the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the separation direction by operation of the operating member of the right-hand operating device, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction and the change in the left-hand operating device. The member performs the swivel shift operation;
When the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the separation direction by the operation of the operating member of the left-hand operating device, the interlocking member of the operating device moves in the approaching direction and the change in the right-hand operating device. The member performs the swivel shift operation;
When the transmission device is in the turning operation state by operating the operation member of the right-hand operation device, the restoring force of the elastic member of the left-hand operation device causes a force to cause the change member to perform the return shift operation in the operation device. Being provided to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member of the operating device;
In addition, when the transmission is in the turning operation state by operating the operation member of the left-hand operation device, the return member performs the return shift operation in the operation device by the restoring force of the elastic member of the right-hand operation device. A vehicle steering apparatus, wherein force is applied to the connection member via the relative movement member and the interlocking member of the operation device. A first end which is an end of the elastic member on the interlocking member side is attached to the relative movement member;
The return device is provided with a first housing and a second housing capable of relative movement in the approaching direction and the separating direction;
And the 2nd end part which is the edge part on the opposite side to the said interlocking member side in the said elastic member is attached to the said 2nd housing.
The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that:   The operation member includes a steering lever coupled to the connection member, and a braking lever that brakes the right driving wheel and the left driving wheel.
  The vehicle steering apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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