JP5943477B2 - Vehicle shift device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a vehicle shift device that has at least a forward range, a neutral range, and a reverse range as shift ranges of a vehicle, and each range can be switched by a switch operation by a driver.

  Conventionally, it is known to switch the shift position of an automatic transmission mounted on a vehicle by operating a shift lever of a shift device. As this type of shift device, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a shift operation body that switches a connection state of a transmission by performing a shift operation using four push switches arranged on the surface of a base. Yes.

  Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a shift operation device that switches a shift position of an automatic transmission by appropriately selecting a shift switch composed of a plurality of push button switches when an operation lever is set to a lying position to enter an automatic shift mode. Has been.

JP 2002-248959 A JP 2006-160098 A

  By the way, the four push switches disclosed in Patent Document 1 are spaced apart from each other in four directions so as to form a rhombus apex on the flat surface of the base. Further, the plurality of shift switches (push button switches) disclosed in Patent Document 2 are arranged adjacent to each other in a straight line from the upper side of the operation lever in the order of reverse (R), neutral (N), and drive (D). ing.

  In the conventional shift device that selects the shift position according to the positional relationship between the gate groove and the operation lever, it is necessary to move the operation lever along the gate groove from the current shift position in order to select a desired shift position. For this reason, in the conventional shift device, there is a low risk of erroneously selecting a shift position that is completely different from the vehicle behavior intended by the driver.

  Generally, since the shift positions are arranged linearly along the gate groove in the order of P (parking), R (reverse), N (neutral), and D (drive) in the gate groove, When the D position is selected at the position, the risk of erroneously selecting the R position whose operation direction is opposite to the D position is reduced.

  However, as in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, when each shift position is configured by a single push switch (push button switch), a push switch (push button switch) that is not intended by the driver is erroneously operated ( There is a risk that comfort and operability may be impaired.

  In particular, in a vehicle shift operation, a so-called blind operation in which the driver operates without looking at the shift position (displacement position) of the operation lever may be considered. Therefore, when such a blind operation is performed, the push switch (push button switch) disclosed in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2 selects a shift position different from that intended by the driver by mistakenly pressing the switch. May impair comfort and operability.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and provides a vehicle shift device that can perform a switch operation satisfactorily even when a blind operation is performed. With the goal.

To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a shift operation means operated by a driver, a switch operation means provided in the shift operation means, and capable of switching a vehicle shift operation by a plurality of switch operations. The switch operating means is configured to perform an operation in a predetermined first direction and an operation in the first direction when a switch operation for selecting a predetermined shift position is performed. An R switch operation unit corresponding to a reverse range provided so that the predetermined shift position is selected by performing an operation in a second direction that is different from the first direction in a state where when selecting a different other shift position and a predetermined shift position, includes a D switch operation unit corresponding to the forward range is another switch operating means operated by a driver, said R The first direction of the switch operation unit, the an operating direction substantially the same direction as the D switch operation unit, the second direction of the R switch operation unit is located in a direction different from the operation direction of the D switch operation portion , and the second direction as the operation direction of the D switch operation unit of the previous SL R switch operation unit, wherein the angle between each other operation direction (theta) intersect at an angle greater than perpendicular.

  According to the present invention, when the predetermined shift position is selected by the switch operation, it is necessary to perform the operation in the first direction and perform the operation in the second direction while performing the operation in the first direction. As a result, according to the present invention, even if the driver performs a blind operation, it is possible to avoid accidentally selecting a predetermined shift position by a switch operation, thereby improving the driver's comfort and operability. It is possible to suppress damage.

  According to the present invention, the operation direction of the switch operation means for selecting the predetermined shift position can be made different from the operation direction of the other switch operation means for selecting a shift position other than the predetermined shift position. It is possible to suppress the vehicle behavior not intended by the driver.

  According to the present invention, before operating the switch operating means for selecting a predetermined shift position, all the switch operating means are arranged to be operable in the same direction, and the driver visually recognizes the switch operating means. Sometimes, the position of each switch operating means can be confirmed at a glance, so that the operability can be improved.

  Further, according to the present invention, in order for the driver to operate the switch operation unit, the operation is performed at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to the operation direction when operating another switch operation unit, or more than that. There is a need to do. For this reason, for example, even when the driver operates the switch operation unit in the operation direction corresponding to the other switch operation unit with the intention of operating the other switch operation unit during the blind operation, the switch The operation unit is not operated, and the operability can be further improved.

  In the vehicle shift operation, the vehicle moves backward only when the reverse range is selected. Accordingly, the operation direction of the R switch operation unit corresponding to at least the reverse range is arranged so as to be different from the operation direction of the switch operation unit when another range is selected. In this way, when the driver intends to select, for example, the forward range or the neutral range, the R switch operation unit is erroneously operated so as to operate the N switch operation unit and the D switch operation unit. However, since the operation direction is different from that of the N switch operation unit and the D switch operation unit, it is possible to suppress the operation of the R switch operation unit.

  As a result, according to the present invention, even when the driver performs, for example, a blind operation or the like, it is possible to easily recognize whether it is the R switch operation unit due to a difference in the operation direction. It is possible to suppress unintended vehicle behavior due to selection of the reverse range. In addition, the driver does not feel uncomfortable.

Furthermore, the present invention includes a casing which is fixed to the center console of the vehicle, and a cover member mounted on said casing has a panel surface to the upper surface, the P switch operation unit corresponding to the P-range is a parking range , and a N switch operation unit corresponding to the N range is neutral range, in the vertical direction before Symbol panel surface, the operating surface of the P switch operation unit is located lower than the operating surface of the N switch operation portion Thus, it is continuous in front of the vehicle.
According to the present invention, for example, when a blind operation is performed, the driver can easily grasp the positional relationship of the P switch operation unit and can easily operate the P switch operation unit.
Furthermore, in the present invention, the center of the operation surface of the N switch operation unit and the center of the operation surface of the D switch operation unit have substantially the same height in the vertical direction of the panel surface. The operation surface of the operation unit is inclined downward toward the vehicle front side, the operation surface of the D switch operation unit is larger than the inclination angle of the operation surface of the N switch operation unit, and is directed toward the vehicle rear side. It is characterized by being inclined downward.
According to the present invention, the N switch operation unit and the D switch operation unit can be easily distinguished from each other by the inclination directions of the operation surfaces of the N switch operation unit and the D switch operation unit being different. Can be suppressed. In addition, the operability of the D switch operation unit can be improved by inclining the operation surface of the D switch operation unit, which is relatively frequently used, toward the driver.
Furthermore, the present invention is configured by a rotation switch mechanism in which the switch operation means operated when selecting the predetermined shift position enables a rotation operation from the first direction to the second direction. It is characterized by being.

According to the present invention, when an operation of intentionally selecting a predetermined shift position is performed, the predetermined shift position is stabilized by a smooth operation from the first direction to the second direction by using the rotation switch mechanism. Can be selected.
Still further, according to the present invention, the rotation switch mechanism includes a first switch disposed close to the P switch operation unit side, a second switch disposed close to the N switch operation unit side, The first switch includes a shaft body fixed to the second switch, and a pressing piece pivotally supported from the substantially horizontal state to the second switch side with the shaft body as a rotation shaft. It is characterized by having.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain a vehicular shift device that can perform a switch operation satisfactorily even if a blind operation is performed.

It is a perspective view showing the state where the shift device concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention is arranged in the center console of the vehicle center. It is a top view of the shift apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an end view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2. It is a schematic diagram which shows the operation direction of each switch operation part. (A)-(c) is explanatory drawing which shows the operation state of the 1st switch which comprises R switch operation part, and a 2nd switch. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which presses the operation surface of D switch operation part with a finger | toe. (A)-(c) is explanatory drawing which shows the operation state of the 1st switch and 2nd switch which respond | correspond to FIG. 5, and comprises the R switch operation part of the shift apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. . It is an expansion perspective view of the shift apparatus which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view of the shift apparatus which concerns on 4th Embodiment of this invention. (A) is a partially transparent perspective view of a shift device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, and (b) is a schematic diagram showing a state in which a pressing piece of a first switch rotates along a guide groove. . It is a schematic diagram of the 1st switch and 2nd switch which comprise the shift apparatus which concerns on 6th Embodiment of this invention. (A) is the schematic diagram of the 1st switch and 2nd switch which comprise the shift apparatus which concerns on 7th Embodiment of this invention, (b) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view along the XII-XII line of (a). is there. It is a schematic diagram of the 1st switch and 2nd switch which comprise the shift apparatus which concerns on 8th Embodiment of this invention. It is a mimetic diagram of the 1st switch and the 2nd switch which constitute the shift device concerning a 9th embodiment of the present invention.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a shift device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is arranged on a center console of a vehicle, FIG. 2 is a plan view of the shift device shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. It is an end elevation along the line III-III. In each figure, “front and rear”, “left and right”, and “up and down” indicate the vehicle longitudinal direction, the vehicle width direction (left and right direction), and the vehicle vertical direction, respectively.

  The shift device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention has a function of changing a travel range (shift range) of an automatic transmission (not shown) mounted on the vehicle 12, and as shown in FIG. It is arranged on the upper surface of the center console 14 extending along the vehicle front-rear direction at the vehicle center between the passenger seat and the passenger seat. In the present embodiment, the case where the shift device 10 is arranged on the center console 14 is described below as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the lower center side of the instrument panel. It is arranged at a site where the driver can easily operate.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the shift device 10 includes a casing 18 fixed to the center console 14 (see FIG. 1) and a cover member 20 attached to the casing 18. On the panel surface 22 that is the upper surface of the cover member 20, a P switch operation unit 24, an R switch operation unit (switch operation means) 26, an N switch operation unit 28, and a D switch operation are arranged from the front to the rear of the vehicle 12. The parts 30 are arranged in a straight line in order. In addition, the casing 18 and the cover member 20 are good to be formed with a resin material, for example.

  The P switch operation unit 24 corresponds to the P range which is a parking range, the R switch operation unit 26 corresponds to the R range which is a reverse range, and the N switch operation unit 28 is a neutral range. The D switch operation unit 30 corresponds to a certain N range, and the D switch operation unit 30 corresponds to the D range which is a forward range.

  The P switch operation unit 24, the R switch operation unit 26, the N switch operation unit 28, and the D switch operation unit 30 have push buttons 32 each having a different shape. As shown in FIG. 4, each switch operation unit 24, 26, 28, 30 is configured as a momentary operation switch that is turned on only when the driver presses the push button 32. The pushed push button 32 is provided so as to return to the original position by the spring force of the return spring 34.

  The P switch operation unit 24, the N switch operation unit 28, and the D switch operation unit 30 are configured by a single switch. On the other hand, the R switch operation unit 26 includes two switches including a first switch 26a and a second switch 26b. The first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are arranged in series along the vehicle front-rear direction in plan view (see FIG. 2). The first switch 26a is disposed close to the P switch operation unit 24 side, and the second switch 26b is disposed close to the N switch operation unit 28 side.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the first switch 26a is fixed to the second switch 26b and is located on the upper front side of the second switch 26b. The first switch 26a is in a substantially horizontal state with the shaft body 27 as a rotation axis. The pressing piece 29 pivotally supported by a predetermined angle to be brought into contact with the vertical wall 31 of the second switch 26b so as to be rotatable by a predetermined angle, and one end is engaged with the bottom surface of the pressing piece 29 and the other end is the second. A spring member 33 is attached to the vertical wall 31 of the switch 26b and supported by the shaft body 27 via a spiral portion (not shown). Note that the entirety of the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b functions as a rotation switch mechanism.

  The pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26 a is held in a state of being lifted substantially horizontally toward the vehicle front side by the spring force of the spring member 33. On the upper surface of the pressing piece 29, an operation surface 35 that is pressed by a driver's finger is provided. In the present embodiment, as an example, the spring member 33 is formed of a torsion spring. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a plate spring or a coil spring may be used.

  The second switch 26b includes a switch body 37 that is slidable in a substantially horizontal direction integrally with the first switch 26a along a bottom surface 40a of the recess 40 described later, and the switch body 37 toward the vehicle front side. And a return spring 34 to be pressed (see FIG. 4).

  The R switch operation unit 26 rotates the shaft body 27 in the first direction (see arrow F1 in FIG. 3) in which the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a is pressed downward from the upper direction. A second direction (arrow in FIG. 3) in which the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are integrally displaced along the bottom surface 40a while rotating to the second switch 26b side as a center and in contact with the vertical wall 31. 2 operation directions).

  In FIG. 3, an arrow F indicates a pressing force for pressing the push buttons 32 of the switch operation units 24, 28, and 30 except for the R switch operation unit 26, and an arrow F <b> 1 indicates a first of the R switch operation unit 26. A pressing force for pressing the switch 26a and an arrow F2 respectively indicate pressing forces for integrally pressing both the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b after the first switch 26a is pressed.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation direction of each switch operation unit, FIGS. 5A to 5C are explanatory diagrams illustrating operation states of the first switch and the second switch of the R switch operation unit, and FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a state where the operation surface of the D switch operation unit is pressed with a finger.

  As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, in each switch operation unit 24, 26, 28, 30, the operation direction (first direction) of the first switch 26 a of the R switch operation unit 26 when selecting the reverse range is The switch operation units 24, 28, and 30 are set to be in the same direction or substantially the same direction as the operation direction when selecting a range other than the reverse range (eg, P range, N range, D range). Yes. On the other hand, the operation direction (second direction) of the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 when selecting the reverse range in each switch operation unit 24, 26, 28, 30 is a range other than the reverse range ( For example, it is set to be different from the operation direction of the switch operation units 24, 28, and 30 when selecting the P range, the N range, and the D range.

  That is, the P switch operation unit 24, the N switch operation unit 28, and the D switch operation unit 30 are operated only by the driver by pressing the push button 32 from the upper direction to the lower direction (arrows in FIG. 3). The operation direction of the first switch 26a of the R switch operation unit 26 (see arrow F1 in FIG. 3) is similarly set by the driver from the upward direction to the downward direction. Is set so that the operation direction is pressed (see FIGS. 5A and 5B).

  In FIG. 6, a state where the push button 32 of the D switch operation unit 30 is pressed is shown as an example. However, as indicated by an arrow F in FIG. 3, the P switch operation unit 24 and the N switch operation unit. The operation direction 28 is substantially the same as that of the D switch operation unit 30.

  In other words, the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 does not operate even when the switch body 37 is pressed from the upper direction to the lower direction, and the first switch 26a remains pressed. The reverse switch range is selected by pressing (operating) the second switch 26b integrally toward the rear side in the vehicle front-rear direction (see FIG. 5C). On the other hand, the other switch operation units (P, N, D) 24, 28, and 30 except for the R switch operation unit 26 have the push button 32 pressed (operated) from the upper side to the lower side of the vehicle. Each desired range (P range, N range, D range) is selected.

  In this case, the operation direction (see arrow F2 in FIG. 3) of the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26, and other switch operation units (P, N, D) 24 excluding the R switch operation unit 26, The operation directions 28 and 30 (see arrow F in FIG. 3) are set so as to be substantially vertical, or the angles formed by the operation directions of each other are set to intersect at an angle greater than or equal to the vertical. .

  Specifically, the operation direction of the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 and the operation direction of the P switch operation unit 24 and the N switch operation unit 28 are set to be substantially vertical directions. Further, the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 and the D switch operation unit 30 are set such that an angle θ (see FIG. 3) formed by the operation directions of each other intersects at an angle greater than or equal to the vertical.

  Further, the operation direction of the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 is the direction from the center console 14 toward the driver (the direction toward the driver), but the R switch operation unit 26 is excluded. The operation directions of the switch operating portions 24, 28, and 30 are set so as to be away from the driver (away from the driver) when the push button 32 is pressed toward the lower side of the vehicle body. Yes.

  As described above, the operation direction of the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 is set to be different from the operation directions of the other switch operation units 24, 28, and 30. For example, the return spring 34 ( 4)), the pressing force of the second switch 26b on the switch body 37 and the push button 32 of the P switch operating unit 24, the N switch operating unit 28, and the D switch operating unit 30 are adjusted. Differentiation may be made by setting the pressing force to be different.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the panel surface 22 is formed with a recess 40 that is recessed from the surface toward the inside between the P switch operation unit 24 on the vehicle front side and the N switch operation unit 28 on the vehicle rear side. Have As shown in FIG. 4, the second switch 26 b of the R switch operation unit 26 is disposed on a stepped portion 42 formed between the bottom surface 40 a and the surface 22 a constituting the recess 40.

  The step portion 42 is provided on the N switch operation unit 28 side of the recess 40, and the recess 40 has an inclined surface 36 that inclines in a circular arc shape from the P switch operation unit 24 toward the R switch operation unit 26. The inclined surface 36 is formed so that the depth from the surface 22 a gradually increases from the P switch operation unit 24 toward the R switch operation unit 26.

  In the R switch operation unit 26, the gap (see FIG. 3) between the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a and the panel surface 22 (inclined surface 36), and the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b. It is possible to prevent the second switch 29b from being operated without causing the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a to function by narrowing the gap with the switch body 37 to such an extent that the driver's finger does not enter. it can.

  As shown in FIG. 2, an English letter “P” is engraved on the upper surface of the push button 32 of the P switch operation unit 24, and “N” is imprinted on the upper surface of the push button 32 of the N switch operation unit 28. An English letter is imprinted, and an English letter “D” is imprinted on the upper surface of the push button 32 of the D switch operation unit 30. In addition, on the operation surface 35 of the first switch 26a of the R switch operation unit 26, an English letter “R” and a triangular figure having an apex toward the vehicle rear side below the English letter R are engraved. Has been. These English characters and graphics are not limited to engraving. For example, the English characters and graphics may be printed on the upper surfaces of the push button 32 and the first switch 26a, or a sheet on which English characters and graphics are described. A body may be stuck and it should just be marked with respect to the push button 32 and the 1st switch 26a.

  As shown in FIG. 4, each switch operation unit 24, 26, 28, 30 is electrically connected to an SBW-ECU 38 that is a transmission control device. An electric signal is introduced into the SBW-ECU 38 when the push buttons 32 and the like of the switch operation units 24, 26, 28, and 30 are pressed. The SBW-ECU 38 performs known automatic shift control for sequentially switching the connection state of a gear train provided in an automatic transmission (not shown) in a plurality of stages having different gear ratios. Here, SBW is an abbreviation for shift by wire.

  The SBW-ECU 38 includes a hydraulic actuator (not shown) that switches the gear train connection state, a range position detector (not shown) that detects the range position, and a shift position (a switch operation unit at which the push button 32 is currently pressed). An indicator (not shown) to be displayed is electrically connected. The SBW-ECU 38 includes a microcomputer (not shown), and the microcomputer controls a hydraulic actuator (not shown) according to a program stored in advance in a memory.

  The SBW-ECU 38, a gear train provided in an automatic transmission (not shown), a hydraulic actuator (not shown) that switches the connection state of the gear train, a range position detector (not shown) that detects a range position, and the like function as a shift operation unit as a whole. Is.

  In the vertical direction of the panel surface 22, the operation surface 24 a of the P switch operation unit 24 continues from the recess 40 to the front of the vehicle at a position lower than the operation surfaces 28 a and 30 a of the N switch operation unit 28 and the D switch operation unit 30. The position is set (see FIG. 3). For example, when the blind operation is performed, the driver can easily grasp the positional relationship of the P switch operation unit 24 with the recess 40 as a reference, and the P provided at the vehicle front position where the inclined surface 36 is raised. The push button 32 of the switch operation unit 24 can be easily operated.

  Further, the center of the operation surface 28 a of the N switch operation unit 28 and the center of the operation surface 30 a of the D switch operation unit 30 are set to substantially the same height in the vertical direction of the panel surface 22. The operation surface 28a of the N switch operation unit 28 is set so as to incline downward by a predetermined angle (gradient descending forward) toward the front side of the vehicle, and the operation surface 30a of the D switch operation unit 30 is the N switch operation surface. It is set to incline downward toward the opposite vehicle rear side (toward the driver side) at an inclination angle larger than 28 (an upward gradient) (see FIG. 3). In this case, the operation surface 30a of the D switch operation unit 30 is inclined toward the vehicle rear side, so that the operation surface 35 of the first switch 26a of the R switch operation unit 26 can be differentiated.

  The driver can easily distinguish between the N switch operation unit 28 and the D switch operation unit 30 because the tilt directions of the operation surfaces 28a and 30a are different from each other. it can. Further, the D switch operation is performed by inclining the operation surface 30a of the D switch operation unit 30 that is relatively frequently used among the switch operation units 24, 26, 28, and 30 toward the driver side. The push button 32 of the part 30 can be relatively easily pressed and the operability can be improved.

  The operation surface 30a of the D switch operation unit 30 is formed in a circular shape, whereas the operation surface 24a of the P switch operation unit 24, the operation surface 35 of the first switch 26a of the R switch operation unit 26, and N Each operation surface 28a of the switch operation unit 28 is formed in a rectangular shape (see FIG. 2).

  Furthermore, an electric parking brake switch 48 is provided at the rear of the D switch operation unit 30 (see FIG. 2). The electric parking brake switch 48 is a well-known one, and for example, the parking brake is activated by pulling up the switch button while depressing a brake pedal (not shown), while the original switch is depressed by depressing the switch button while depressing the brake pedal (not shown). The parking brake is released by returning to the state.

  The shift device 10 according to the present embodiment is basically configured as described above. Next, the function and effect will be described.

  In the present embodiment, when the R range (predetermined shift position), which is the reverse range, is selected by a switch operation, the first direction in which the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a is pressed from the upper side to the lower side (FIG. 3). The first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are integrally pressed in the second direction (the arrow F2 direction in FIG. 3) while the operation in the first direction is performed. It is necessary to perform an operation. As a result, in this embodiment, even if the driver performs a blind operation, it is avoided that the R range (predetermined shift position) is erroneously selected by the switch operation, and the driver is comfortable. It is possible to suppress damage to the performance and operability.

  In the present embodiment, the operation direction (direction of arrow F2 in FIG. 3) of the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26 for selecting the R range (predetermined shift position) is set to a range other than the R range. Since it can be made different from the operation direction (direction of arrow F in FIG. 3) of the other switch operation units 24, 28, and 30 to be selected, it is possible to suppress the vehicle behavior not intended by the driver.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, before operating the R switch operation unit 26 for selecting the R range (predetermined shift position), any switch operation unit 24, 26, 28, 30 can be operated in the same direction. Because it is arranged and the driver can visually recognize the switch operation units 24, 26, 28, and 30, the position of each switch operation unit 24, 26, 28, and 30 can be confirmed at a glance, thereby improving operability. Can be made.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, in order for the driver to operate the second switch 26b of the R switch operation unit 26, the operation direction when operating the other switch operation units 24, 28, 30 is substantially vertical. Or it is necessary to operate toward a different angle beyond that. For this reason, for example, at the time of a blind operation, the driver operates the other switch operation units 24, 28, 30 in an operation direction corresponding to the other switch operation units 24, 28, 30. Even when the operation is performed on the second switch 26b, the second switch 26b is not operated, and the operability can be further improved.

  In the shift operation of the vehicle 12, the vehicle 12 moves backward only when the reverse range is selected. Accordingly, the driver is arranged such that at least the operation direction of the R switch operation unit 26 corresponding to the reverse range is different from the operation direction of the switch operation units 24, 28, and 30 when selecting another range. However, for example, when there is an intention to select the forward range or the neutral range, even if the R switch operation unit 26 is erroneously operated to operate the N switch operation unit 28 or the D switch operation unit 30, the N switch operation is performed. Since the operation direction is different from that of the unit 28 and the D switch operation unit 30, it is possible to suppress the R switch operation unit 26 from being operated.

  As a result, in the present embodiment, even when the driver performs, for example, a blind operation or the like, it is possible to easily recognize whether the driver is the R switch operation unit 26 due to a difference in the operation direction. It is possible to suppress unintended vehicle behavior due to selection of the reverse range. In addition, the driver does not feel uncomfortable.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, when performing an operation of intentionally selecting the R range, the rotation switch mechanism configured by the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b is employed, so that the second direction from the first direction. By smoothly and continuously operating in the direction, it is possible to stably select the R range which is the reverse range.

  In the present embodiment, both the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are integrally pressed while the first switch 26a is operated. For example, the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are operated. The switch 26b may be operated simultaneously or substantially simultaneously. In addition, the second switch 26b can be operated only when the first switch 26a is rotated and contacted (contacted) with the vertical wall 31 of the second switch 26b is detected by a sensor (not shown). May be.

Next, a shift device 10a according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIGS. 7A to 7C correspond to FIG. 5 of the first embodiment, and show operation states of the first switch and the second switch constituting the R switch operation unit of the shift device according to the second embodiment. It is explanatory drawing. In the embodiment described below, the same components as those in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The shift device 10a according to the second embodiment is common in that it includes two switches including the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b, but the first switch 26a is located on the lower front side of the second switch 26b. And a rotating member 52 provided so that the free end 50 separated from the second switch 26b can turn toward the vertical wall 31 of the second switch 26b with the shaft body 27 as a rotation fulcrum. And a spring member 33 having one end engaged with the inner wall of the rotating member 52 and the other end engaged with the bottom surface of the switch body 37 of the second switch 26b. . The rotating member 52 is formed with a curved surface 54 to facilitate the operation of the free end 50 by the driver's finger.

  In the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the operation direction is such that the first switch 26a is pressed from the upper side toward the lower side, whereas in the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 (a) to (c). The rotation member 52 of the first switch 26 is in a state inclined in advance upward along the inclined surface 36, and the free end 50 of the rotation member 52 in such an inclined state is pulled upward. Direction.

  After the rotating member 52 constituting the first switch 26a contacts the vertical wall 31 of the second switch 26b, the first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are integrated with each other while maintaining the contacted state. The point pressed along a substantially horizontal direction is the same as in the first embodiment.

Next, a shift device 10b according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of the shift device according to the third embodiment.

  The shift device 10b according to the third embodiment has the same configuration as the second switch 26b shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, but the first switch 26a corresponds to the R switch operation unit 26. It differs in that it is separately provided as a push button switch on the right side surface of the cover member 20 in the lateral direction. In FIG. 9, an English letter “R” and a triangular figure are depicted on the inclined surface 36.

  In the third embodiment, the driver presses the push button switch (first switch 26a) in the direction of the arrow (first direction), and the second switch is maintained while the push button switch (first switch 26a) is kept pressed. By pulling 26b in the direction of the arrow (second direction), the R range is set. Since other configurations and operational effects are the same as those of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

Next, a shift device 10c according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 9 is a plan view of the shift device according to the fourth embodiment.

  The shift device 10c according to the fourth embodiment is different in that not only the R switch operation unit 26 but also the D switch operation unit 30 includes the first switch 30a and the second switch 30b. For this reason, the D range which is a forward range can be made into a predetermined shift position.

  The first switch 30a constituting the D switch operation unit 30 is the same as the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6 in that the first switch 30a is pressed from the upper side toward the lower side, but the first switch 30a is a vehicle. The second switch 30b is disposed on the rear side, and is disposed on the front side of the vehicle. The first embodiment shown in FIGS.

  As a result, after the first switch 30a contacts the second switch 30b with the shaft body 27 as the rotation shaft, the D switch operation unit 30 performs an operation in which the first switch 30a and the second switch 30b are pressed together. The direction is different from the first embodiment in that the direction is pressed toward the vehicle front side (arrow side).

  In other words, in the R switch operation unit 26 and the D switch operation unit 30, the operation directions of the first switches 26a and 30a are the same, but the operation directions of the second switches 26b and 30b are opposite to each other. In this respect, the two are differentiated. Since other configurations and operational effects are the same as those of the first embodiment, detailed description thereof is omitted.

Next, a shift device 10d according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 10A is a partially transparent perspective view of the shift device according to the fifth embodiment, and FIG. 10B is a schematic view showing a state in which the pressing piece of the first switch rotates along the guide groove. is there.

  In the shift device 10d according to the fifth embodiment, the guide groove 62 is provided on each of the left and right side surfaces 60a and 60b of the cover member 20 on which the inclined surface 36 (see FIG. 3) is formed, and the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a. This is different from the shift device 10 according to the first embodiment in that protrusions 66 slidable along the guide grooves 62 are provided on the left and right side walls 64a and 64b.

  The pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a has left and right side walls 64a and 64b that face each other in the vehicle width direction and extend along the vehicle front-rear direction. Each of the left and right side walls 64a and 64b is provided with a protrusion 66 that protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction. The cover member 20 has left and right side surfaces 60a and 60b that face each other with the inclined surface 36 in between (stranding). The left and right side surfaces 60a, 60b are provided with guide grooves 62 that descend toward the vehicle rear side when viewed from the side. The guide groove 62 includes a substantially arc-shaped portion 62a and a substantially horizontal portion 62b continuous with the substantially arc-shaped portion 62a. The vertical groove 62 c connected to the foremost portion of the substantially arc-shaped portion 62 a of the guide groove 62 is an assembly groove when the protrusion 66 of the pressing piece 29 is assembled to the guide groove 62.

  When the pressing piece 29 is pressed downward from the upper side by the driver and the pressing piece 29 rotates toward the second switch 26b around the shaft body 27, the left and right side walls 64a and 64b of the pressing piece 29 are rotated. The protrusion 66 provided on the cover member 20 slides in the direction of the arrow A1 along the substantially arcuate portion 62a of the guide groove 62 on the cover member 20 side, thereby smoothly rotating the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a. Can do. After the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a comes into contact with the vertical wall 31 of the second switch 26b, the protrusion 66 of the pressing piece 29 slides along the substantially horizontal portion 62b of the guide groove 62 by the arrow A2, thereby The first switch 26a and the second switch 26b are integrally displaced toward the rear of the vehicle.

  In the present embodiment, even if, for example, a force in the opposite direction to the first direction that pulls the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26 a from the lower direction to the upper direction is applied to the pressing piece 29, Since the projection 66 of the piece 29 is locked by the guide groove 62, the pressing piece 29 can be prevented from being pulled upward and the pressing piece 29 can be protected.

  Further, when the second switch 26b is operated in the second direction (the vehicle rearward direction along the bottom surface 40a) before the first switch 26a, the protrusion 66 of the pressing piece 29 is locked in the guide groove 62. It is provided so as not to slide along the guide groove 62. As a result, in the present embodiment, the first switch 26a can be surely operated first than the second switch 26b.

  Further, when the driver finishes the operation in the first direction and the second direction and releases his hand from the first switch 26a, the pressing piece 29 is lifted substantially horizontally to the front side of the vehicle by the spring force of the spring member 33. Return to the initial position. At this time, since the protrusion 66 is locked at the uppermost position on the front end side of the substantially arc-shaped portion 62a of the guide groove 62, the pressing piece 29 can be reliably held at the initial position.

Next, a shift device 10e according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the first switch and the second switch that constitute the shift device according to the sixth embodiment.

  In the shift device 10 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 6, the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a is pivotally supported by the switch body 37 of the second switch 26b via the shaft body 27 so as to be rotatable. On the other hand, the shift device 10e according to the sixth embodiment is different in that the pressing piece 29 of the first switch 26a is pivotally supported with respect to the protruding portion 70 of the cover member 20. doing.

  In the shift device 10e according to the sixth embodiment, a ridge 70 that slightly protrudes toward the second switch 26b is provided on the front surface 40b of the recess 40 of the cover member 20 that faces the second switch 26b. A pressing piece 29 is pivotally supported on the protrusion 70 so as to be rotatable along the direction of arrow B in FIG.

Next, a shift device 10f according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram of the first switch and the second switch constituting the shift device according to the seventh embodiment, and FIG. 12B is a longitudinal section along the line XII-XII in FIG. FIG.

  In the shift device 10f according to the seventh embodiment, in common with the shift device 10e according to the sixth embodiment, the pressing piece 29 constituting the first switch 26a is pivotally supported on the cover member 20 side. However, it is different in that the pressing piece 29 is divided into two left and right cover portions 72a and 72b and can be opened from the substantially central portion to the left and right (in the directions of arrows C1 and C2).

  That is, the shift device 10f according to the seventh embodiment has a left cover portion 72a and a right cover portion 72b that are divided into two parts from the substantially central part to the left and right, and left and right end parts 74a and 74b of the left and right cover parts 72a and 72b. Is pivotally supported on the left and right side walls 76a, 76b of the recess 40 so as to be rotatable. In this case, the left and right cover portions 72a and 72b can be opened in the left and right direction (in the directions of arrows C1 and C2) from the substantially central portion by the pressing force directed downward from above.

  In the shift devices 10e and 10f according to the sixth and seventh embodiments, the pressing piece 29 and the left and right cover portions 72a and 72b constituting the first switch 26a are fixed to the cover member 20 side, whereby the first switch The versatility can be improved by increasing the degree of freedom of 26a.

Next, shift devices 10g and 10h according to eighth and ninth embodiments of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the first switch and the second switch constituting the shift device according to the eighth embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of the first switch and the second switch constituting the shift device according to the ninth embodiment. FIG.

  In the shift devices 10g and 10h according to the eighth and ninth embodiments, the first switch 26a itself has a slide member 80 that can slide relative to the cover member 20 side, and a spring member that returns the slide member 80 to the initial position. 82 is different in that it is constituted by 82.

  In the shift device 10g according to the eighth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, a slide recess 86 is formed on the front surface 84 of the recess 40 of the cover member 20 so as to be inclined, and the slide recess 86 is arranged in the slide recess 86. The slide member 80 is provided so as to be slidable along the arrow D direction (first direction) against the spring force of the provided spring member 82.

  In the shift device 10 h according to the ninth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, a slide recess 88 is formed in the bottom surface 40 a of the recess 40 of the cover member 20 in the vertically downward direction, and the slide recess 88 The slide member 80 is provided so as to be slidable along the vertically downward direction (arrow D direction, first direction) against the spring force of the spring member 82 arranged in the above.

  In the shift devices 10g and 10h according to the eighth embodiment and the ninth embodiment, the first switch 26a itself is configured by the slide member 80 and the slide recess 88 into which a part of the slide member 80 can be inserted. Thus, while maintaining the visibility and operability of the shift devices 10g and 10h appropriately, it is possible to suppress the accidental selection of the reverse range and the unintended vehicle behavior.

10, 10a-10h Shift device 12 Vehicle 24 P switch operation section (other switch operation means)
26 R switch operation section (switch operation means)
26a 1st switch 26b 2nd switch 28 N switch operation part (other switch operation means)
30 D switch operation part (switch operation means, other switch operation means)

Claims (5)

A shift device for a vehicle having shift operation means operated by a driver, and switch operation means provided in the shift operation means and capable of switching a vehicle shift operation by a plurality of switch operations,
The switch operating means performs an operation in a predetermined first direction when performing a switch operation to select a predetermined shift position, and is different from the first direction in a state in which the operation in the first direction is performed. An R switch operation unit corresponding to a reverse range provided so that the predetermined shift position is selected by performing an operation in a second direction that is a direction;
When selecting another shift position different from the predetermined shift position, the D switch operation unit corresponding to the forward range which is another switch operation means operated by the driver,
The first direction of the R switch operation unit is substantially the same direction as the operation direction in the D switch operation unit ,
The second direction of the R switch operation unit is a direction different from the operation direction in the D switch operation unit ,
Before SL and the second direction as the operation direction of the D switch operation unit of the R switch operation unit, a vehicle shift apparatus characterized by an angle of mutual operation direction (theta) intersect at an angle greater than perpendicular. The vehicle shift device according to claim 1,
A casing fixed to the center console of the vehicle;
A cover member having a panel surface on the upper surface and attached to the casing;
A P switch operation unit corresponding to the P range which is a parking range ;
N switch operation unit corresponding to N range which is neutral range;
Equipped with a,
In the vertical direction before Symbol panel surface, the operating surface of the P switch operation unit, the N at the position lower than the operation surface of the switch operating unit, a vehicle shift apparatus characterized by being continuous with the front of the vehicle. The vehicle shift device according to claim 2,
The center of the operation surface of the N switch operation unit and the center of the operation surface of the D switch operation unit have substantially the same height in the vertical direction of the panel surface,
The operation surface of the N switch operation unit is inclined downward toward the vehicle front side,
An operation surface of the D switch operation unit is larger than an inclination angle of the operation surface of the N switch operation unit and is inclined downward toward the vehicle rear side. In the vehicle shift device according to claim 2 or 3,
The switch operating means that is operated when selecting the predetermined shift position is constituted by a rotation switch mechanism that enables a rotation operation from the first direction to the second direction. Vehicle shift device. The vehicle shift device according to claim 4,
The rotation switch mechanism is
A first switch disposed close to the P switch operation unit side;
A second switch disposed close to the N switch operation unit side;
The first switch includes a shaft body fixed to the second switch, and a pressing piece that is pivotally supported from the substantially horizontal state to the second switch side with the shaft body as a rotation shaft. And a vehicular shift device.

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