[0001]The present invention relates to a vehicle body structure.
The present application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application
No. 2019-040609 filed in Japan on March 6, 2019, and the contents thereof are
incorporated herein.
[Background Art]
[0002]
In related art, as a part of vehicle body structure, frame members obtained by
processing a metal sheet member to have a certain cross-sectional shape are used.
These frame members are required to have a light weight, and have a sufficient load
resistance. Therefore, recently, there is a case in which a material having a high
strength, such as a high-tensile steel sheet, is used. Meanwhile, in a case that an
impact is applied to the vehicle body structure having frame members by collision, the
frame member is expected to efficiently absorb the impact by realizing a suitable
deformation mode.
[0003]
For a vehicle body structure including a frame member made of a highstrength
material, such as a high-tensile steel sheet, it is required to improve both a
deformation capability and a load resistance. For example, Patent Document 1
discloses a product which is made of a sheet metal and is provided with a low-hardness
area and a high-hardness area, by using a technology of partially changing the hardness
of a member.
- 1 -
[Prior Art Document]
[Patent Document]
[0004]
[Patent Document 1] PCT International Publication No. W02012/118223
[Disclosure of the Invention]
[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]
[0005]
When a vehicle body structure including a frame member in which the
hardness thereof is partially changed, such as the frame member disclosed in Patent
Document 1 described above, however, simply has a softened layer that improves the
deformation capability in the frame member, further improvement in the load
resistance is limited, while the deformation capability is ensured. That is, in the
vehicle body structure using a high strength frame member, higher-level deformation
capability and load resistance are both required.
[0006]
The present invention has been made in view of the problem described above.
An object of the present invention is to provide a novel and improved vehicle body
structure that allows assurance of the deformation capability and improvement in the
load resistance.
[Means for Solving the Problem]
[0007]
The summary of the present invention is as follows.
[0008]
(1) An aspect of the present invention is a vehicle body structure including a
frame member which includes a first top section, a corner section provided at an end
- 2 -
portion of the first top section, a vertical wall section extending from an end portion of
the corner section, and a second top section which faces the first top section, and a first
support section and a second support section which are provided on the second top
section, wherein L/h :::; 6. 7 is satisfied, where h represents a length between an outer
surface of the first top section and an outer surface of the second top section, and L
represents a length between the first support section and the second support section, the
vertical wall section is provided with a softened layer, in the vertical wall section, the
softened layer is provided on an area extending from a bending stop of the corner
section toward the widthwise direction of the vertical wall section by a length of h/3,
hardness of a sheet-thickness-direction central section in a portion where the softened
layer is provided is greater than or equal to 400 Hv, and the softened layer is an area
having hardness smaller by at least 10 Hv than the hardness of the sheet-thicknessdirection
central section in the portion where the softened layer is provided, a thickness
of the softened layer is greater than or equal to 2% of the sheet thickness in the portion
where the softened layer is provided but smaller than 20% of the sheet thickness in the
portion where the softened layer is provided, the hardness of the softened layer at the
surface is greater than or equal to 0.5 times the hardness of the sheet-thicknessdirection
central section in the portion where the softened layer is provided but smaller
than 0.9 times the hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central section in the
portion where the softened layer is provided, the softened layer has a first hardness
changing area that is an area extending from the surface to 40% of the thickness of the
softened layer in the sheet thickness direction and a second hardness changing area that
is an area different from the first hardness changing area out of the softened layer, an
absolute value ~Hvl of a change in hardness of the first hardness changing area in the
- 3 -
sheet thickness direction is greater than an absolute value ~Hv2 of a change in
hardness of the second hardness changing area in the sheet thickness direction.
[0009]
(2) In the vehicle body structure according to the above (1), the softened layer
may be provided on a surface continuing to a surface of an outer bending side of the
corner section in the vertical wall section.
(3) In the vehicle body structure according to the above (1) or (2), the
softened layers may be provided on a surface continuing to a surface of an inner
bending side of the corner section and a surface continuing to a surface of an outer
bending side of the corner section in the vertical wall section.
(4) In the vehicle body structure according to any one of the above (1) to (3),
the softened layer may be provided on at least one of a surface of an inner bending side
and a surface of an outer bending side of the corner section toward the sheet thickness
direction.
(5) In the vehicle body structure according to any one of the above (1) to (4),
in the first top section, the softened layer may be provided on an area extending from
the corner section by a length not less than 1/2 of the first top section in the widthwise
direction.
(6) In the vehicle body structure according to any one of the above (1) to (5),
in the second top section of the frame member, the first support section or the second
support section may be formed by attaching a cross member to the frame member in a
direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the frame member.
(7) In the vehicle body structure according to any one of the above (1) to (6),
the first support section or the second support section may be formed by setting a
bending strength of the first support section or the second support section to be higher
- 4 -
than a bending strength of a part of the frame member between the first support section
and the second support section.
[Effects of the invention]
[0010]
The present invention provides a vehicle body structure that allows
improvement both in the deformation capability and the load resistance at the time of
collision.
[Brief Description of the Drawings]
[0011]
Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a vehicle body structure
according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is an end elevation view of the frame member according to the first
embodiment taken along I-I' in Fig. 1.
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a region including a bending ridge portion
according to the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z.
Fig. 4 shows an example of a hardness change between B-B' in Fig. 3, in a
softened layer according to the first embodiment.
Fig. 5 is a plan view of the vehicle body structure according to the first
embodiment.
Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a region including a bending ridge portion
according to a modified example of the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z.
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a region including a bending ridge portion
according to another modified example of the first embodiment taken along the plane
X-Z.
- 5 -
Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a frame member according to another
modified example of the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z.
Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a frame member according to another
modified example of the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z.
Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a frame member according to a second
embodiment of the present invention taken along the plane X-Z.
Fig. llA is a perspective view showing an example of a vehicle body
structure according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. liB is an end elevation view of the frame member according to the third
embodiment taken along II-II' in Fig. llA.
Fig. llC is a side view of the vehicle body structure according to the third
embodiment.
Fig. 12A is a perspective view showing an example of a vehicle body
structure according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 12B is a plan view of an example of a vehicle body structure according to
the fourth embodiment.
Fig. 13A is a perspective view showing an example of a vehicle body
structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 13B is an end elevation view of the vehicle body structure according to
the fifth embodiment taken along III-III' in Fig. 13A.
Fig. 13C is a side view of the vehicle body structure according to the fifth
embodiment.
Fig. 14A shows conditions of the simulation.
Fig. 14B shows conditions of the simulation.
- 6 -
Fig. 15 shows a deformation manner in the analysis model obtained by the
simulation.
Fig. 16 shows a deformation manner in the analysis model obtained by the
simulation.
Fig. 17 is a graph representing a relationship between a load and a stroke
obtained by the simulations.
[Embodiments of the Invention]
[0012]
Preferable embodiments of the present invention will be described below in
detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and
drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration have the
same reference character and will not be redundantly described.
[0013]
<1. First embodiment>
(Exterior view example of the vehicle body structure)
First, with reference to Fig. 1, a vehicle body structure 100 according to a first
embodiment of the present invention will be explained. Fig. 1 is a perspective view
showing the vehicle body structure 100 according to the first embodiment. The
vehicle body structure 100 according to the first embodiment forms a part of a vehicle
body. The vehicle body structure 100 includes a frame member 110, a first support
section 120, and a second support section 130.
[0014]
As shown in Fig. 1, the frame member 110 is a member with a closed crosssection
in a cross-sectional view (X-Z plane view) in which the normal direction
thereof corresponds to the longitudinal direction, which is the Y direction in Fig. 1.
- 7 -
The frame member 110 includes the first member 111 and the second member 113.
As shown in Fig. 1, the frame member 110 may bear a load F from the outside. The
frame member 110 is arranged so that the first member 111 bears the load F. The
load F is mainly input to a first top section lila of the first member 111.
[0015]
Further, as shown in Fig. 1, at a plane that faces the first top section lila of
the frame member 110 (that is, a second top section 113a of the second member 113 ), a
first support section 120 and a second support section 130 are provided. The first
support section 120 and the second support section 130 support the frame member 110
in response to the input of the load F.
[0016]
(Example of the vehicle body structure)
The vehicle body structure 100 according to the first embodiment may be a
floor structure having a side sill realized by a frame member 110 as shown in Fig. 1.
In this case, floor cross members realized by a first cross member 160 and a second
cross member 170 are provided on a plane facing the first top section lila
(corresponding to a second top section 113a described later), so as to extend in the
direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the frame member
110. The first support section 120 and the second support section 130 are
respectively formed by the first cross member 160 or the second cross member 170.
[0017]
(Cross-section structure of the frame member)
Next, with reference to Fig. 2, explanations will be made for the cross-section
structure of the frame member 110 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 shows II'
cross-sectional view in Fig. 1, showing an example of a cross-section structure of the
- 8 -
frame member 110 according to the first embodiment. As shown in this Fig. 2, the
frame member 110 includes a first member 111 and a second member 113. The
frame member 110 is formed by the first member 111 and the second member 113 so
as to have a closed cross-sectional shape in a cross-section of X-Z plane.
[0018]
The first member 111 is a substantially hat-shaped member in the crosssectional
view in the X-Z plane. That is, the first member 111 includes a first top
section 111 a, vertical wall sections 111 c which extend from end portions of the first
top section lila in the widthwise direction (Z direction) via corner sections lllb, and
flange sections llld which are respectively bent outward from one end of the vertical
wall section lllc opposite to the other end continuing to the first top section lila.
Further, in the first member 111, at least a part of the vertical wall section lllc is
provided with a softened layer 140 which will be descried later.
[0019]
The second member 113 is a substantially hat-shaped member in the crosssectional
view in the X-Z plane. That is, the second member 113 includes a second
top section 113a, vertical wall sections 113c extending from end portions of the second
top section 113a in the widthwise direction (Z direction) via corner sections 113b, and
flange sections 113d each of which is respectively bent outward from one end of the
vertical wall section 113c opposite to the other end continuing to the second top
section 113a. On the second top section 113a, the first support section 120 and the
second support section 130 are formed.
[0020]
That is, the frame member 110 includes, as shown in Fig. 2, a first top section
111 a, corner sections 111 b provided at end portions of the first top section 111 a,
- 9 -
vertical wall sections 111 c extending from each end portion of the corner sections
111 b, and a second top section 113a facing the first top section 111 a.
[0021]
The first member 111 and the second member 113 may be formed from
various types of metal sheet members. In particular, the first member 111 and the
second member 113 may be respectively formed from a steel sheet. For example, a
steel having a tensile strength of not less than 1470 MPa (1.5 GPa class, 1.8 GPa class,
or greater) may be used. The steel sheets used for the first member 111 and the
second member 113 may have a sheet thickness of about 0.5 to 3.5 mm, or about 1.0 to
2.9 mm. The first member 111 and the second member 113 may be formed by
applying known techniques of various processing technologies to a metal sheet
member (blank material).
[0022]
The first member 111 and the second member 113 are joined together at each
of the flange sections 111 d and 113d, whereby the frame member 110 has a closed
cross-section structure. The joining method is not limited; a known joining technique
such as a laser welding or a spot welding may be used.
[0023]
(Configuration of corner section of frame member)
The configuration of an area including the corner section 111 b according to
the first embodiment will next be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a crosssectional
view of the area including the corner section 111 b according to the first
embodiment taken along the plane X-Z. The corner section 111 b is a bent section
present between the first top section lila and each of the vertical wall sections lllc
and has a predetermined bending radius R, which will be described later. As shown
- 10 -
in Fig. 3, the corner section IIIb is formed in the area defined by R-stop points AI and
A2, which are present on the inner bending side, and R -stop points A3 and A4, which
are present on the outer bending side, in the cross-sectional view taken along the plane
X-Z.
[0024]
The bending radius R may be set to a value considering a sheet thickness t of
the corner section IIIb, for example, a value satisfying R/t:::; 8.0. If the R/t:::; 8.0 is
satisfied, the vertical wall section III c becomes less likely to be deflected at the time
of bending deformation by the collision, thus the load resistance of the corner section
III b increases especially at the initial timing of the stroke. In addition to this, in the
middle timing of the stroke and the later timing of the stroke, it is possible to maintain
high load resistance. The bending radius R may be preferably set to a value satisfying
R/t:::; 2.5. If R/t:::; 2.5 is satisfied, the load resistance of the corner section will
increase and the collision performance will improve. It should be noted that the
lower limit value of R/t is not specifically limit, but in view of the formability, it is
preferable to satisfy R/t 2:: 0.5, and it is more preferable to satisfy R/t 2:: 0.9. The
bending radius R may be determined by obtaining, from an image of a cross-section of
a corner section IIIb, in an inner bending side, three points of R-stop point AI, R-stop
point A2, and bending central point of the corner section III b (that is, a point
positioned at a half of length between R-stop points AI and A2 in the corner section
III b), and then, calculating a curvature using these three points based on known
mathematical methods.
[0025]
(Configuration of softened layer)
- II -
Further, with reference to Fig. 3, explanations will be made for a softened
layer 140 according to the first embodiment. On a surface side of the first member
111 of the frame member 110, at least a part of the vertical wall section 111 c is formed
with the softened layer 140. Specifically, the softened layer 140 is provided on a
surface side continuing to an outer bending side of the corner section 111 b. Further,
the softened layer 140 formed on the vertical wall section 111 c has at least a length d
in the widthwise direction (X direction in Fig. 3) of the vertical wall section 111 c, from
R-stop point A3 of the corner section 111b. Here, the length dis a length
corresponding to h/3, where the h represents a length between the outer surface of the
first top section 111 a and the outer surface of the second top section 113a.
[0026]
The softened layer 140 may be continuously or partially formed along the
lengthwise direction of the frame member 110 (direction Y in Fig. 1). The softened
layer 140 is formed from the surface of the frame member 110 to a predetermined
depth in the sheet thickness direction. The thickness of the softened layer 140 on the
frame member 110 according to the first embodiment is greater than or equal to 2% but
smaller than 20% of the sheet thickness of the frame member 110. The sheet
thickness used herein refers to the overall thickness in the sheet thickness direction of
the frame member 110, including the softened layer 140 and a sheet-thicknessdirection
central section 150, which will be described later. When the thickness of the
softened layer 140 is greater than or equal to 20% of the sheet thickness of the frame
member 110, the ratio of the softened layer 140 to the frame member 110 increases, so
that the frame member 110 cannot maintain a load resistance required for the frame
member 110. The thickness of the softened layer 140 is preferably smaller than or
- 12 -
equal to 17%, and more preferably smaller than or equal to 14% of the sheet thickness
of the frame member 110.
On the other hand, when the thickness of the softened layer 140 is smaller
than 2% of the sheet thickness of the frame member 110, the ratio of the softened layer
140 to the frame member 110 is small, so that the deformation capability is not
achieved. The thickness of the softened layer 140 is preferably greater than or equal
to 5% of the sheet thickness of the frame member 110, and more preferably, greater
than or equal to 8% of the sheet thickness of the frame member 110.
[0027]
As shown in Fig. 3, a central area in the sheet-thickness-direction of the frame
member 110 (the sheet -thickness-direction area of the frame member 110 excluding the
softened layer 140) forms the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150. The
softened layer 140 is an area having hardness lower than the hardness of the sheetthickness-
direction central section 150 by at least 10 Hv.
[0028]
The hardness of the softened layer 140 on the surface of the frame member
110 is greater than or equal to 0.5 times the hardness of the sheet -thickness-direction
central section 150 but smaller than 0.9 times the hardness of the sheet-thicknessdirection
central section 150. The surface of the frame member 110 refers to the
surface of the base material of the frame member 110 excluding an applied film and a
plated layer thereon. The hardness of the surface of the frame member 110 is
measured by performing a Vickers hardness test specified in JIS Z 2244:2009 on a
cross-section of the base material. The measurement is performed so that a
measurement point is located at a depth smaller than or equal to 20 ~m from the
surface of the base material and the indentation has a size smaller than or equal to 10
- 13 -
~m. When the hardness of the surface is smaller than 0.5 times the hardness of the
sheet-thickness-direction central section 150, the surface layer of the frame member
becomes too soft and therefore the load resistance and the impact absorption
characterization cannot be fully achieved at the time of collision. The softened layer
140 on the surface of the frame member 110 preferably has a hardness greater than or
equal to 0.6 times the hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150.
On the other hand, when the hardness of the surface is greater than or equal to
0.9 times the hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150, it is difficult
to sufficiently improve the deformation capability. The softened layer 140 on the
surface of the frame member 110 preferably has hardness smaller than 0.8 times the
hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150.
[0029]
The hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150 is greater
than or equal to 400 Hv in Vickers hardness. When the frame member is made of
steel having a Vickers hardness of 400 Hv or greater, it is difficult for the frame
member to maintain the deformation capability at the time of collision. That is, when
the sheet -thickness-direction central section 150 of the frame member 110 has a
Vickers hardness of 400 Hv or greater, the softened layer 140 according to the first
embodiment noticeably improves the deformation capability. The Vickers hardness
of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150 of the frame member 110 is
preferably greater than or equal to 500 Hv, more preferably, greater than or equal to
600 Hv.
The upper limit of the hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central section
150 is not particularly specified but may be 800 HV in view of the formability and
other factors of the frame member 110.
- 14 -
[0030]
For example, within the above-mentioned range of the hardness of the sheetthickness-
direction central section 150, the hardness of the softened layer 140 on the
surface of the frame member 110 may be greater than or equal to 250 Hv in Vickers
hardness. Further, within the above-mentioned range of the hardness of the sheetthickness-
direction central section 150, the hardness of the softened layer 140 on the
surface of the frame member 110 may be lower than or equal to 500 Hv in Vickers
hardness. A method for measuring the hardness of the frame member 110 at the
surface of the area of the softened layer 140 and at the sheet-thickness-direction central
section 150 will be described later in detail.
[0031]
The softened layer 140 may be formed on the surface of the frame member
110 by applying a variety of known surface processing, surface finishing, or thermal
treatment technologies. The method for forming the softened layer 140 may, for
example, be a partial tempering using laser heating or high-frequency heating
performed on the areas corresponding to the corner sections 111 b and the vertical wall
sections 111c. The frame member 110 including the softened layers 140 in
predetermined areas may be formed by processing a blank having the softened layer
described above formed on the surface layer in advance.
[0032]
Fig. 4 shows an example of a change along the line B-B' in Fig. 3 in the
hardness of the softened layer 140 in the first embodiment. Fig. 4 shows the result of
an experiment in which the frame member 110 according to the first embodiment is
produced in hot press using steel for hot stamping so that the steel is formed in a hat
shape having a tensile strength as large as 2.0 GPa class and the results of
- 15 -
measurement of the sheet -thickness-direction Vickers hardness of a softened layer 140
are plotted in the form of a graph. The softened layer 140 has a first hardness
changing area 141, which is present in the surface side of the frame member 110, and a
second hardness changing area 142, which is present between the first hardness
changing area 141 and the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150, as shown in
Fig. 4. The second hardness changing area 142 is an area of the softened layer 140
that is the area excluding the first hardness changing area 141. The first hardness
changing area 141 and the second hardness changing area 142 are each an area where
the sheet-thickness-direction hardness changes at a predetermined gradient, and the
first hardness changing area 141 and the second hardness changing area 142 have
absolute values ~Hv1 and ~Hv2, respectively, which represent changes in hardness
and differ from each other.
[0033]
The first hardness changing area 141 ranges from the surface of the frame
member 110 to 40% of the entire thickness of the softened layer 140, as shown in Fig.
4. The second hardness changing area 142 continuously extends from the first
hardness changing area 141 of the softened layer 140 to the sheet-thickness-direction
central section 150 of the frame member 110.
[0034]
The absolute value ~Hv1 of the change in hardness of the first hardness
changing area 141 is greater than the absolute value ~Hv2 of the change in hardness of
the second hardness changing area 142, as shown in Fig. 4. The reason for the above
is that the frame member 110 is too soft when ~Hv2 is greater than ~Hv1 so that it is
impossible to obtain a sufficient loading characterization.
[0035]
- 16 -
The absolute value ~Hv1 of the change in hardness of the first hardness
changing area 141 is greater than or equal to 100 Hv but smaller than 200 Hv. When
~Hv1 is greater than or equal to 100 Hv, stress concentration at the time of the bending
deformation can be further reduced, whereby the bending characteristics can be further
improved. When ~Hv1 is smaller than 200 Hv, the effect of reducing the stress
concentration at the time of the bending deformation can be further enhanced, whereby
more satisfactory bending characteristics are provided. Therefore, when ~Hv1 is
greater than or equal to 100 Hv but smaller than 200 Hv, satisfactory bending
characteristics are provided, and the deformation capability of the frame member 110
can be improved, whereby the load resistance and the impact absorption
characterization are both achieved. The absolute value ~Hv1 of the change in
hardness of the first hardness changing area 141 is therefore preferably greater than or
equal to 100 Hv but smaller than 200 Hv, as described above.
[0036]
(Hardness measurement method and hardness change calculation method)
A method for measuring the hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction central
section 150 is as follows. A cross-section of a sample in the form of a sheet that is a
cross-section perpendicular to the sheet surface of the sample is collected, and a
measurement surface is prepared as a sample under measurement, followed by a
hardness test. A method for preparing the measurement surface is carried out in
compliant with JIS Z 2244:2009. After any of #600 to #1500 silicon carbide sheets
are used to polish the measurement surface, and a liquid made of a diluting liquid, such
as alcohol, or pure water in which diamond powder having a granularity ranging from
1 to 6 ~m is dispersed is used to finish the polished measurement surface into a mirror
surface. The hardness test is carried out based on the method specified in JIS Z 2244.
- 17 -
A micro Vickers hardness tester is used to measure the hardness of the sample at ten
points spaced apart from each other by at least three times the size of the indentation at
the depth equal to half the sheet thickness of the sample under a load of 1 kgf, and
average the measured values to determine the hardness of the sheet-thickness-direction
central section 150.
[0037]
A method for measuring the hardness of each of the first hardness changing
area 141 and the second hardness changing area 142 will next be described. After
collecting a sample such that a cross-section perpendicular to the sheet surface
becomes a measurement surface, and processing the measurement surface, the sample
is used in the hardness test. To accurate! y measure the hardness of the portion in the
vicinity of the surface of the sample, the measurement surface is prepared so that the
amount of irregularities is minimized and no sag is produced in the vicinity of the
surface. In the preparation, a cross-section polisher manufactured by JOEL Ltd. is
used to perform argon ion beam sputtering on the measurement surface. In this case,
to suppress occurrence of stripe-shaped irregularities on the measurement surface, a
sample rotating holder manufactured by JOEL Ltd. is used to omnidirectionally
irradiate the measurement surface with the argon ion beam.
[0038]
The micro Vickers hardness tester is used to measure the hardness of the
sample having the prepared measurement surface. The hardness of the sample is
measured under the load of 1 kgf in the area corresponding to the softened layer of the
sample under the surface of the sample at points spaced apart from each other by at
least three times the size of the indentation in the direction perpendicular to the sheet
surface (sheet thickness direction). In this case, the total number of measurement
- 18 -
points varies in accordance with the sheet thickness of the sample. As for the number
of measurement points for the calculation of ~Hv1 and ~Hv2, which will be described
later, a largest possible number of measurement points are set based on the
specification described in JIS Z 2244:2009 with inter-measurement-point intervals
large enough to prevent the indentations from affecting the measurement. The
measurement position closest to the surface of the sample is set within the area ranging
from the sheet surface (when a plated layer is present, immediately below the plated
layer or immediately below an alloy layer between the plated layer and the base
material) to the depth of 20 ~m. The reason for this is that a large amount of soft
microstructure is present in a surface portion closest to the surface of the base material.
[0039]
In the case of a sample in which the softened layer 140 is placed on each side
of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150, the same measurement is
performed on the first surface side of the sample and on the second surface side
opposite the first surface.
[0040]
A method for calculating ~Hv1 will next be described. That is, a hardness
gradient ~a in the first hardness changing area 141 is calculated by using Expression
( 1) based on all measurement points present in the area from the surface of the sample
to a depth corresponding to 40% of the overall thickness of the softened layer (first
hardness changing area 141). In Expression (1), ai represents the ratio(%) of the
distance from the surface to the i-th measurement point to the overall thickness of the
softened layer, Ci represents the Vickers hardness (Hv) at ai, and n represents the total
number of all measurement points present in the area from the surface to the depth
- 19 -
corresponding to 40% of the overall thickness of the softened layer (first hardness
changing area 141).
[0041]
[Math. 1]
Lia • • ·:Expression (l)
[0042]
In Expression (1 ),
~a: Gradient (Hv/%) of change in hardness in sheet thickness direction in first
hardness changing area,
ai: Ratio(%) of distance from surface to i-th measurement point to the overall
thickness of softened layer,
Ci: Vickers hardness (Hv) at ai, and
n: Total number of all measurement points present in first hardness changing
area on a first surface side.
[0043]
In the case of a sample in which the softened layer 140 is placed on each side
of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150, ~a1 on the first surface side is
calculated based on the result of the measurement of the hardness on the first surface
side, and ~a2 on the second surface side is calculated based on the result of the
measurement of the hardness on the second surface side. The arithmetic average of
~a 1 and ~a2 can be defined as ~a.
[0044]
- 20 -
~a determined by using Expression (1) is multiplied by the ratio of the sheetthickness-
direction thickness of the first hardness changing area 141 to the overall
thickness of the softened layer, whereby the ~Hv1 can be determined.
[0045]
A method for calculating ~Hv2 will next be described. That is, a hardness
gradient ~A in the second hardness changing area 142 is calculated by using
Expression (2) based on all measurement points present in the area from the depth
corresponding to 40% to the depth of the overall thickness of the softened layer on the
surface side of the sample to the depth corresponding to 100% thereof (second
hardness changing area 142). In Expression (2), Ai represents the ratio (%) of the
distance from the surface to the i-th measurement point to the overall thickness of the
softened layer, Ci represents the Vickers hardness (Hv) at Ai, and N represents the total
number of all measurement points present in the area from the depth corresponding to
40% of the overall thickness of the softened layer on the surface side to the depth
corresponding to 100% thereof (second hardness changing area 142).
[0046]
[Math 2]
N ~N ~ C' - ~N A ~·N ( ......
IJa A ......• · L-ti=l r·1. i i L~i=l · · · · i L...j;;;:l . · ..-~ i
N 2 (· N )
2
Li=l Ai - ·. Lt=l Ai.
• • • [~xpression (2)
[0047]
In Expression (2),
~A: Gradient (Hv/%) of change in hardness in sheet thickness direction in
second hardness changing area,
- 21 -
Ai: Ratio (%)of distance from surface to i-th measurement point to the overall
thickness of softened layer,
Ci: Vickers hardness (Hv) at Ai, and
N: Total number of all measurement points present in second hardness
changing area on a first surface side.
[0048]
In the case of a sample in which the softened layer 140 is placed on each side
of the sheet-thickness-direction central section 150, ~AI on the first surface side is
calculated based on the result of the measurement of the hardness on the first surface
side, and ~A2 on the second surface side is calculated based on the result of the
measurement of the hardness on the second surface side. The arithmetic average of
~A 1 and ~A2 can be defined as ~A.
[0049]
~A determined by using Expression (2) is multiplied by the ratio of the sheetthickness-
direction thickness of the second hardness changing area 142 to the overall
thickness of the softened layer, whereby the ~Hv2 can be determined.
[0050]
(Deformation manner)
The deformation manner of the vehicle body structure 100 according to the
first embodiment will subsequently be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5
shows a plan view of the vehicle body structure 100 according to the first embodiment.
As described above, when the load F is applied in the direction orthogonal to the
longitudinal direction of the frame member 110 to the first top section 111 a of the
frame member 110 (see the arrow in the drawing), the bending deformation may occur.
- 22 -
In this situation, in the frame member 110 according to the first embodiment, the
softened layer 140 improves the deformation capability of the frame member 110.
[0051]
Regarding the deformation capability of the frame member 110, the present
inventors discovered that sufficient deformation capability cannot be fully improved in
some conditions of a vehicle body structure 100 provided with the frame member 110.
That is, when the load F is input, the frame member 110 deforms in a bending mode
from the position at which the load F is input as a starting point, there is a case in
which an effect of improving the deformation capability cannot be fully achieved.
[0052]
Thus, the present inventors studied conditions of the vehicle body structure
100 by which the improving effect of the deformation capability can be fully achieved
in the frame member 110 having the softened layer 140. As a result, the inventors
found that when the vehicle body structure 100 satisfies the following Expression (3 ),
the frame member 110 according to the first embodiment fully achieves a sufficient
deformation capability.
[0053]
L/h :::; 6. 7 · · ·Expression (3)
In Expression (3),
L: Length (mm) between the first support section 120 and the second support
section 130.
h: Length (mm) between the outer surface of the first top section 111 a of the
frame member 110 and the outer surface of the second top section 113a in the frame
member 110.
[0054]
- 23 -
As shown in Fig. 5, in the vehicle body structure 100 satisfying the above
Expression (3), when the load F is input to the first top section lila of the frame
member 110, the frame member 110 is supported by the first support section 120 and
the second support section 130. In this situation, the frame member 110 deforms in a
manner that a whole member is crushed from the first top section 111 a. That is, first,
in the frame member 110, the first top section lila is deformed so as to be concaved.
Then, the vertical wall section lllc crushes while undergoing an out-of-plane
deformation at a broad area. As a result, the effect of improving the deformation
capability of the frame member 110 obtained by providing the softened layer 140 can
be fully obtained.
[0055]
Especially, the frame member 110 according to the first embodiment is
formed from a high strength steel of 14 70MPa class or greater in tensile strength. In
this case, in order to allow the frame member 110 be entirely deformed while being
crushed at the time of deformation, it is required to satisfy Expression (3). That is, in
the frame member 110 using a high tensile steel sheet, the strength is sufficiently high,
therefore, only a local deformation likely happens and therefore the deformation
capability cannot be fully achieved.
[0056]
According to the first embodiment, the vehicle body structure 100 has a
proper arrangement condition of the members such as the frame member 110, and the
frame member 110 includes a softened layer 140 having certain characteristics such as
hardness and thickness. Because of these features, it is possible to improve both the
deformation capability and the load resistance of the frame member 110 in the vehicle
body structure 100. That is, in the vehicle body structure 100, it is possible to
- 24 -
increase the energy absorption amount and further increase the impact absorption
performance. Especially, even if the frame member 110 is formed from a high
strength steel, it is possible to improve the deformation capability of the frame member
110 by making each section such as the first top section lila, the corner sections lllb,
and the vertical wall sections lllc be sufficiently deformed.
[0057]
In the first embodiment, the first member 111 and the second member 113 are
welded together at each of the flange sections llld and 113d, but the present invention
is not limited to this example. For example, the first member 111 and the second
member 113 each having the substantially hat shape may be welded together at areas in
the vicinity of end portions of the vertical wall sections 111 c and 113c.
[0058]
Further, the first embodiment suggests an example in which the softened layer
140 is provided on an entire area of the frame member 110 in the longitudinal
direction, but the present invention is not limited to this example. The softened layer
140 may be provided on at least an area in the longitudinal direction between the first
support section 120 and the second support section 130. Further, the softened layer
140 may not be continuous! y provided along the longitudinal direction of the frame
member 110. The softened layer 140 may be partially or intermittently provided
along the longitudinal direction of the frame member 110.
[0059]
Further, the first embodiment suggests an example in which the first support
section 120 and the second support section 130 are both formed by providing the first
cross member 160 and the second cross member 170 on the second top section 113a of
the frame member 110, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For
- 25 -
example, the first support section 120 or the second support section 130 may be
formed by making an end portion of the frame member 110 in the longitudinal
direction to contact with another member so as to be supported.
It should be noted that the minimum value of L/h is not limited, but if L/h is
excessively small, the member will not be bent and crushed, but will be flatly
deformed, therefore, there is a case in which an improvement of the loading
characterization cannot be expected. Therefore, the minimum value of L/h may be
set to be 2.0.
Explanations of the vehicle body structure 100 according to the first
embodiment of the present invention are as above.
[0060]
(Modified Example 1)
A modified example of the frame member 110 according to the first
embodiment will subsequently be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a crosssectional
view of a region including a bending ridge portion according to a modified
example of the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z. In this modified
example, softened layers 140 are provided on both a surface continuing to an inner
bending side of the corner section 111 b and a surface continuing to an outer bending
side of the corner section 111 b. Explanations of some of mutual configurations
which have already been explained in the first embodiment will be omitted.
[0061]
In this modified example, as shown in Fig. 6, the softened layers 140 are
provided on both surfaces of the vertical wall section 111 c. That is, in the vertical
wall section 111 c, the softened layer 140 is provided on one surface continuing to the
outer bending side of the corner section 111 b. Further, in the vertical wall section
- 26 -
111c, the softened layer 140 is provided on the other surface continuing to the inner
bending side of the corner section 111b.
[0062]
The softened layers 140 formed on the vertical wall section 111c respectively
has a length of at least h/3 from R -stop points A 1 and A3 of the corner section 111 b.
Here, the h represents a length from an outer surface of the first top section 111 a to an
outer surface of the second top section 113a of the frame member 110.
[0063]
According to this modified example, the softened layers 140 are provided on
both surfaces of the vertical wall section 111 c, here, both surfaces means that one
surface continuing to the inner bending side of the corner section 111 b and the other
surface continuing to the outer bending side of the corner section 111 b. Thus, the
deformation capability of the frame member 110 can be further improved. Because
of the arrangement condition of the members constituting the vehicle body structure
100, it is possible to promote the deformation of the vertical wall section 111 c while
allowing the frame member 110 to be deformed in a crushing manner. Therefore, in
the vehicle body structure 100, it is possible to improve both the deformation
capability and the load resistance of the frame member 110.
[0064]
(Modified Example 2)
Another modified example of the frame member 110 according to the first
embodiment will subsequently be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 shows a
cross-section of a region including a corner section 111 b according to another modified
example of the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z. In this modified
example, the softened layers 140 are also provided on the corner section 111b.
- 27 -
Explanations of some of mutual configurations which have already been explained in
the first embodiment will be omitted.
[0065]
As shown in Fig. 7, on the surfaces of the frame member 110, the softened
layer 140 may be provided on one of the inner bending side and the outer bending side
of the corner section 111 b, or on each of the inner bending side and the outer bending
side of the corner section 111 b. Especially, the softened layer 140 may be provided
on the outer bending side of the corner section 111 b. The softened layer 140 is
continuously formed on the vertical wall section Ill c.
[0066]
According to this modification, because the softened layer 140 is also
provided on the corner section 111 b, the deformation capability of the frame member
110 can be further improved. Further, because of the arrangement condition of the
members constituting the vehicle body structure 100, it is possible to promote the
deformation of the vertical wall section 111 c while allowing the frame member 110 to
be deformed in a crushing manner. Therefore, it is possible to improve the impact
absorption performance of the vehicle body structure 100.
[0067]
Further, the softened layer 140 may be provided on the first top section lila
so as to extend from the corner section 111 b with at least 1/2 length of the first top
section lila in the widthwise direction (Z direction in Fig. 7). In this case, the
deformation capability of the frame member 110 can be further improved. Because
of the arrangement condition of the members constituting the vehicle body structure
100, it is possible to promote the deformation of the vertical wall section 111 c while
allowing the frame member 110 to be deformed in a crushing manner. Therefore, it is
- 28 -
possible to improve both the deformation capability and the load resistance of the
frame member 110 in the vehicle body structure 100.
[0068]
(Modified Example 3)
Another modified example of the frame member 110 according to the first
embodiment will subsequently be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 shows a
cross-sectional view of a frame member 110 according to another modified example of
the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z. In this modified example, the
softened layer 140 is provided on the outer surface of the first member 111.
Explanations of some of mutual configurations which have already been explained in
the first embodiment will be omitted.
[0069]
As shown in Fig. 8, in the first member 111, the softened layer 140 is formed
on a whole surface of the outer side of the closed cross-section of the frame member
110. That is, the outer surfaces of the first top section lila, the corner sections lllb,
the vertical wall sections lllc, and the flange sections llld of the first member 111
are provided with the softened layer 140. In this case, the deformation capability of
the frame member 110 can be further improved. Because of the arrangement
condition of the members constituting the vehicle body structure 100, it is possible to
promote the deformation of the vertical wall section 111 c while allowing the frame
member 110 to be deformed in a crushing manner. Therefore, it is possible to
improve both the deformation capability and the load resistance of the frame member
110 in the vehicle body structure 100.
[0070]
(Modified Example 4)
- 29 -
Another modified example of the frame member 110 according to the first
embodiment will subsequently be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 shows a
cross-sectional view of a frame member 110 according to another modified example of
the first embodiment taken along the plane X-Z. In this modified example, the
softened layers 140 are provided on both surfaces of the first member 111.
Explanations of some of mutual configurations which have already been explained in
the above first will be omitted.
[0071]
As shown in Fig. 9, in the first member 111, one softened layer 140 is formed
on a whole surface of the outer side of the closed cross-section of the frame member
110, and in this first member 111, the other softened layer 140 is formed on a whole
surface of the inner side of the closed cross-section of the frame member 110. That
is, both surfaces of the first top section lila, the corner sections 111 b, the vertical wall
sections lllc, and the flange sections llld of the first member 111 are respectively
provided with the softened layer 140. Thus, the deformation capability of the frame
member 110 can be further improved. Because of the arrangement condition of the
members constituting the vehicle body structure 100, it is possible to promote the
deformation of the vertical wall section 111 c while allowing the frame member 110 to
be deformed in a crushing manner. Therefore, it is possible to improve the
deformation capability and the load resistance of the frame member 110 in the vehicle
body structure 100.
[0072]
<2. Second Embodiment>
The second embodiment of the present invention will subsequently be
described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the frame
- 30 -
member 210 according to the second embodiment taken along the plane X-Z. In the
second embodiment, the frame member 210 has single-hat cross-section and is
different from the first embodiment in this point. In the following explanation,
explanations of some of mutual configurations which have already been explained in
the first embodiment will be omitted.
[0073]
As shown in Fig. 10, the frame member 210 includes a first member 211
having a substantially hat-like shape cross-section when viewed from the widthwise
direction. Further, a second member 213, which is a flat member, is used as a closing
plate.
[0074]
The first member 211 includes a first top section 211a, vertical wall sections
211c which extend from end portions of the first top section 211a in the widthwise
direction (Z direction) via corner sections 211b, and flange sections 211d which are
respectively bent outward from one end of the vertical wall section 211c opposite to
the other end continuing to the first top section 211a. Further, in the first member
211, at least a part of the vertical wall section 211 c is provided with a softened layer
140. The first member 211 is joined with the second member 213 by welding at the
flange sections 211 d.
[0075]
In the second embodiment, as shown in Fig. 10, the h used in Expression (3)
represents a length in the X direction from an outer surface of the closed cross-section
of the first top section 211a to one surface (which opposites to a surface to which other
member is joined by welding) of the flange section 211 d.
[0076]
- 31 -
According to the second embodiment, the vehicle body structure 200 has a
proper arrangement condition of the members such as the frame member 210, and the
frame member 210 includes a softened layer 140 having certain characteristics such as
hardness and thickness. Because of these features, even in a case in which a frame
member 210 has a single-hat configuration in which a second member is a flat member
and thus the deformable region is not secured, it is possible to improve both the
deformation capability and the load resistance. That is, in the vehicle body structure
200, it is possible to increase the energy absorption amount by the frame member 210
and further improve the impact absorption performance. Explanations of the vehicle
body structure 200 according to the second embodiment of the present invention are as
above.
[0077]
<3. Third Embodiment>
The third embodiment of the present invention will subsequently be described
with reference to Fig. llA, Fig. liB, and Fig. 11 C. Fig. llA is a perspective view of
an example of a vehicle body structure 300 according to the third embodiment. Fig.
liB is an end elevation view of the vehicle body structure 300 taken along II-II' in Fig.
llA. Fig. 11 C is a side view of the vehicle body structure 300 according to the third
embodiment. In the present embodiment, the vehicle body structure 300 is used as a
roof structure of the vehicle body and is different from other embodiments in this
point. In the following explanation, some of mutual configurations which have
already been explained in the other embodiments will be omitted.
[0078]
As shown in Fig. llA, the vehicle body structure 300 according to the third
embodiment is a roof structure constituting an upper section of the vehicle body. The
- 32 -
vehicle body structure 300 includes a frame member 310, a first support section 320,
and a second support section 330. More specifically, the vehicle body structure 300
includes a roof side rail corresponding to the frame member 310. Further, roof cross
members corresponding to a first cross member 360 and a second cross member 370
are provided on one surface of the frame member 310 opposite to another surface of
the first top section 311 a. The roof cross members extend along the direction (X
direction) substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the frame member
310. The first support section 320 and the second support section 330 are formed by
the first cross member 360 or the second cross member 370.
[0079]
As shown in Fig. llA, the frame member 310 may bear a load F from the
outside. The frame member 310 is arranged so that the first member 311 bears the
load F. The load F is mainly input to the first top section 311a of the first member
311.
[0080]
As shown in Fig. liB, the frame member 310 includes a first member 311 and
a second member 313. The frame member 310 is formed to have a closed crosssectional
shape in a cross-section of X-Z plane by the first member 311 and the second
member 313. The first member 311 includes the first top section 311 a corresponding
to a top section, and vertical wall sections 311 c extending from end portions of the first
top section 311a in the widthwise direction (Z direction) via corner sections 311b.
Further, in the frame member 310, at least a part of the vertical wall section 311 c is
provided with a softened layer 140.
[0081]
- 33 -
As shown in Fig. 11 C, the frame member 310 is partially curved so as to
protrude toward the Z direction in Fig. 11C. In the third embodiment, as shown in
Fig. 11C, the L used in Expression (3) represents a length between the first support
section 320 and the second support section 330, along the longitudinal direction of the
frame member 310.
[0082]
According to the third embodiment, the vehicle body structure 300 has a
proper arrangement condition of the members such as the frame member 310, and the
frame member 310 includes a softened layer 140 having certain characteristics such as
hardness and thickness. Because of these features, even in a case in which the vehicle
body structure 300 is a roof structure or other similar structure and the frame member
310 has a curving shape, it is possible to improve the deformation capability and the
load resistance. In the vehicle body structure 300, it is possible to increase the energy
absorption amount by the frame member 310 and further increase the impact
absorption performance. Explanations of the vehicle body structure 300 according to
the third embodiment of the present invention are as above.
[0083]
<4.Fourth Embodiment>
The fourth embodiment of the present invention will subsequently be
described with reference to Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B. Fig. 12A is a perspective view of
an example of a vehicle body structure 400 according to the fourth embodiment. Fig.
12B is a plan view of the vehicle body structure 400 according to the fourth
embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the vehicle body structure 400 is used as a
front bumper structure of the vehicle body and is different from other embodiments in
this point. In the following explanation, explanations of some of mutual
- 34 -
configurations which have already been explained in the other embodiments will be
omitted.
[0084]
As shown in Fig. 12A, the vehicle body structure 400 according to the fourth
embodiment is a front bumper structure constituting a front section in the vehiclelongitudinal
direction of the vehicle body. The vehicle body structure 400 includes a
frame member 410, a first support section 420, and a second support section 430.
More specifically, the vehicle body structure 400 includes a bumper reinforce member
corresponding to the frame member 410. Further, crash box members corresponding
to a first cross member 460 and a second cross member 4 70 are provided on one
surface of the frame member 410 opposite to another surface of a first top section
411a. The crash box members extend along the direction (Y direction) substantially
orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the frame member 410. The first support
section 420 and the second support section 430 are formed by the first cross member
460 or the second cross member 470.
[0085]
As shown in Fig. 12A, the frame member 410 may bear a load F from the
outside. The load F is mainly input to the first top section 411 a of the frame member
410. The frame member 410 includes the first top section 411a corresponding to a
top section, and vertical wall sections 411 c extending from end portions of the first top
section 411a in the widthwise direction (Z direction) via corner sections 411b.
Further, on the frame member 410, at least a part of the vertical wall section 411 c is
provided with a softened layer 140.
[0086]
- 35 -
As shown in Fig. 12B, the frame member 410 is partially curved so as to
protrude toward the Y direction in Fig. 12B. In the fourth embodiment, as shown in
Fig. 12B, the L used in Expression (3) represents a length between the first support
section 420 and the second support section 430, along the longitudinal direction of the
frame member 410.
[0087]
According to the fourth embodiment, the vehicle body structure 400 has a
proper arrangement condition of the members such as the frame member 410, and the
frame member 410 includes a softened layer 140 having certain characteristics such as
hardness and thickness. Because of these features, even in a case in which the vehicle
body structure 400 is a front bumper structure or similar structure and the frame
member 410 has a curving shape, it is possible to improve the deformation capability
and the load resistance of the frame member in the vehicle body structure 400. In the
vehicle body structure 400, it is possible to increase the energy absorption amount by
the frame member 410 and further increase the impact absorption performance.
Explanations of the vehicle body structure 400 according to the fourth embodiment of
the present invention are as above.
[0088]
<5. Fifth Embodiment>
The fifth embodiment of the present invention will subsequently be described
with reference to Fig. 13A, Fig. 13B, and Fig. 13C. Fig. 13A is a perspective view of
an example of a vehicle body structure 500 according to the fifth embodiment. Fig.
13B is an end elevation view of the vehicle body structure 500 taken along III-III' in
Fig. 13A. Fig. 13C is a side view of the vehicle body structure 500. As shown in
- 36 -
Fig. 13A and Fig. 13C, the vehicle body structure 500 includes a frame member 510, a
first support section 520, and a second support section 530.
[0089]
The frame member 510 is a pillar member extending from a lower side to an
upper side in the vertical direction (Z direction in Fig. 13A). The frame member 510
includes a first part 511 and a second part 513. As shown in Fig. 13A, the frame
member 510 may bear a load F from the outside. The frame member 510 is arranged
so that the second part 513 bears the load F. The load F is mainly input to a first top
section 515a of the second part 513.
[0090]
The first part 511 is an upper section of the frame member 510 in the vertical
direction (Z direction in Fig.13A). The second part 513 is a lower section
continuously arranged below the first part 511 and is arranged between a vehicle body
side member 550 and the first part 511.
[0091]
The vehicle body structure 500 according to the fifth embodiment is, as
shown in Fig. 13A, a side section structure of a vehicle body including a B-pillar
corresponding to the frame member 510. In this case, the B-pillar is configured by
the B-pillar upper member corresponding to the first part 511 and a B-pillar lower
member corresponding to the second part 513.
[0092]
The second part 513 of the frame member 510 has so-called a single-hat shape
in a cross-section viewed from the widthwise direction of the frame member 510 (X-Y
plane). That is, the second part 513 of the frame member 510 includes, as shown in
Fig. 13B, a first member 515 having a substantially hat shape, and a second member
- 37 -
517 which is a sheet member partially bent. The first member 515 includes a first top
section 515a corresponding to a top section, corner sections 515b, vertical wall
sections 515c, and flange sections 515d. Further, the vertical wall sections 515c of
the second part 513 of the frame member 510 are provided with softened layers 140.
[0093]
The first support section 520 is formed by joining an upper end portion of the
second part 513 with the first part 511. More specifically, the upper end portion of
the second part 513 is overlapped and joined with a tongue piece portion 511a
extending from the first part 511, at the welding portions W. That is, the frame
member 510 includes a first high-strength part 560 where the tongue piece portion
511 a and the upper side end portion of the second part 513 are overlapped and the
bending strength is set to be higher than that of a part between the first support section
520 and the second support section 530.
[0094]
The second support section 530 is formed by joining the lower end portion of
the second part 513 with the side sill corresponding to the vehicle body side member
550. That is, the frame member 510 includes a second high strength part 570 where
the vehicle side member 550 and the lower end portion of the second part are joined
and the bending strength is set to be higher than that of the part between the first
support section 520 and the second support section 530.
[0095]
In this configuration, as shown in Fig. 13A, when the load F is input to the
frame member 510 from the outside, the first high strength part 560 and the second
high strength part 570 of the frame member 510 function as the first support section
520 and the second support section 530. As a result, when the bending deformation
- 38 -
occurs in the frame member 510, the second part 513 deforms while being crushed
between the first high strength part 560 and the second high strength part 570.
[0096]
In the fifth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 13C, the L used in Expression (3)
represents a length between the first high strength part 560 which is the first support
section 520, and the second high strength part 570 which is the second support section
530.
[0097]
According to the fifth embodiment, the vehicle body structure 500 has a
proper arrangement condition of the members such as the frame member 510, and the
frame member 510 includes a softened layer 140 having certain characteristics such as
hardness and thickness. According to this configuration, in the vehicle body structure
500, the frame member 510 supported by a portion with a high bending strength can be
deformed efficiently. Thus, it is possible to improve the load resistance while
improving the deformation capability of the frame member 510. That is, in the
vehicle body structure 500, it is possible to increase the energy absorption amount and
further improve the impact absorption performance. Especially, even in a case in
which the frame member 510 is formed from a high strength steel, it is possible to
sufficiently deform each section of the frame member, thereby improving the
deformation capability of the frame member 510.
[0098]
The fifth embodiment suggests an example in which the softened layer 140 is
provided between the first high strength part 560 and the second high strength part
570, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, a
- 39 -
plurality of the high strength parts may be provided and the softened layer 140 may be
provided between these high strength parts.
[0099]
Further, the fifth embodiment suggests an example in which the first high
strength part 560 and the second high strength part 570 have a strength higher than the
other part, by overlapping and welding members, but the present invention is not
limited to this configuration. For example, the high strength part may be provided by
the thermal treatment technologies such as a partial quenching processing.
Explanations of the vehicle body structure 500 according to the fifth embodiment of
the present invention are as above.
[Examples]
[0100]
Three-point bending test simulations were performed to evaluate the
performance of the vehicle body structure 100 according to the present invention.
The conditions for the simulations will be explained with reference to Fig. 14A and
Fig. 14B. Fig. 14A and Fig. 14B are illustrations for explaining the conditions of the
simulations. As shown in Fig. 14A, the diameter