AUTOMOBILE PANEL

An automobile panel 1 has a sheet-shaped outer panel 2 and a sheet-shaped inner panel 3, and an interior member 30 arranged in a space S between the inner panel 3 and the outer panel 2. The interior member 30 is an elongated member that extends in a first direction D1 along the outer panel 2, and includes a first end 41 that is one end in the first direction D1, and a second end 42 that is another end. The first end 41 has a first connecting portion 45 which is connected to the inner panel 3. The interior member 30 has a second connecting portion 46 that is connected to the outer panel 2, at a position that is separated from the first end 41 along the first direction D1.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an automobile panel.

BACKGROUND ART

Various kinds of panels such as automobile hoods are used as panels that constitute the outer appearance portions of automobiles (for example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2). Such panels usually have a configuration in which an inner panel that is a sheet and an outer panel that is a sheet are superposed, and a space is provided between the inner panel and the outer panel. There is a demand for further weight reductions to be achieved in such panels in order to increase energy saving performance.

LIST OF PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

Patent Documents

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

When the thickness of a panel is made thin in order to achieve a reduction in weight, the surface rigidity, such as the panel rigidity, of the panel decreases. Note that, the panel rigidity corresponds to the feeling of elastic resistance or the sensation of deflection deformation when the outer panel is pressed with a hand. This characteristic is usually represented by the deflection when a load is applied, and the smaller that the deflection is when a constant load is applied, the higher the panel rigidity is. Further, the surface rigidity refers to the difficulty of deformation of the outer panel in a certain area range when the outer panel receives a load such as a vertical load from the outer surface of the outer panel.

Further, in an automobile panel such as an automobile hood, various functional components are arranged in a space between the inner panel and the outer panel, and in some cases there is little room to spare with respect to the space for arranging the components within such a space. In particular, an outer circumferential edge part of the inner panel and an outer circumferential edge part of the outer panel are joined to each other by hemming, and the space between the inner panel and the outer panel around these outer circumferential edge parts is small. Consequently, it is difficult to secure space in which a member that stiffens (reinforces) the outer panel between the inner panel and the outer panel is arranged. Furthermore, in the case of providing an interior member in order to increase the surface rigidity, preferably the interior member is joined to both the inner panel and the outer panel.

However, although Patent Document 1 discloses a reinforcing member that is joined to an outer panel, the reinforcing member is not joined to an inner panel. Further, although a reinforcing member illustrated in FIG. 5 of Patent Document 2 is joined to an inner panel and an outer panel, the reinforcing member is arranged in a wide space between the inner panel and the outer panel, and hence a large thickness is required. Therefore, Patent Documents 1 and 2 neither disclose nor suggest a reinforcing member which can be installed even in a narrow space between an inner panel and an outer panel and which has a sufficient stiffening effect.

An objective of the present invention is, in an automobile panel, to secure sufficient surface rigidity in an outer panel even at a location where a space between an inner panel and the outer panel is narrow, while also achieving a reduction in weight.

Solution to Problem

The gist of the present invention is an automobile panel described hereunder.(1) An automobile panel including:a sheet-shaped outer panel located on an outer side of a vehicle, andan inner panel that is joined to the outer panel and is arranged on an inner side of the vehicle,further including:an interior member arranged in a space between the inner panel and the outer panel,wherein:the interior member is an elongated member extending in a first direction along the outer panel, and includes a first end that is one end in the first direction and a second end that is another end in the first direction;the first end has a first connecting portion that is connected to the inner panel; andthe interior member has, at a position that is separated from the first end along the first direction, a second connecting portion that is connected to the outer panel.(2) The automobile panel according to the above (1), wherein the interior member is a sheet-shaped member.(3) The automobile panel according to the above (2), wherein the interior member includes a planar base plate in which the first end and the second end are formed.(4) The automobile panel according to the above (2), wherein:the interior member includes a base plate;the base plate includes a first portion including the first end, a rising portion that rises from the first portion toward a side of the outer panel, and a second portion that extends from the rising portion and whose position in a sheet thickness direction of the outer panel is different from a position of the first portion; andthe second connecting portion is arranged in the second portion.(5) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (2) to the above (4), wherein the interior member has a bead that is formed along the first direction.(6) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (1) to the above (5), further including:an other member formed separately from the interior member and arranged in the space between the inner panel and the outer panel,wherein:the interior member is arranged in a state in which a portion which is advanced from the first end toward a side of the second end overlaps with the other member as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel.(7) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (1) to the above (6), wherein:the inner panel further includes a protruding portion which protrudes further inward than a region that is joined to the outer panel, and separates from the outer panel, and the interior member is arranged in a state in which the portion which is advanced from the first end toward the side of the second end overlaps with the protruding portion as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel.(8) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (1) to the above (7), wherein:an outer circumferential edge part of the outer panel sandwiches the inner panel to be joined to the inner panel, andthe first direction intersects with a direction along the outer circumferential edge part of the outer panel.(9) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (1) to the above (8), wherein:the automobile panel is an automobile hood, anda plurality of the interior members are aligned at a rear part of the automobile hood.(10) The automobile panel according to the above (9), wherein:the first end of each of the plurality of interior members is connected to a common connecting member.(11) The automobile panel according to the above (10), wherein:the interior member in which a directional component in the first direction includes a directional component in a vehicle cross direction is connected to both ends of the connecting member.(12) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (1) to the above (11), wherein:a plurality of the interior members that have different bending rigidities are provided, anda plurality of the interior members that have different bending rigidities are arranged according to a strength of the vehicle at locations advanced by a predetermined amount toward an inner side of the vehicle from the outer panel.(13) The automobile panel according to the above (12), wherein:a first interior member whose bending rigidity is relatively high and a second interior member whose bending rigidity is relatively low are provided as the plurality of the interior members that have different bending rigidities,the first interior member is arranged so that, as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel, the first interior member overlaps with a high strength region where a strength of the vehicle is relatively high at the location advanced by the predetermined amount toward the inner side of the vehicle from the outer panel, andthe second interior member is arranged so that, as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel, the second interior member overlaps with a low strength region where the strength of the vehicle is relatively low at the location advanced by the predetermined amount toward the inner side of the vehicle from the outer panel.(14) The automobile panel according to any one of the above (1) to the above (13), wherein:the inner panel includes: a flange which is arranged on an inner side of the inner panel with respect to an outer circumferential edge part of the inner panel, and which is arranged adjacent to the outer panel; an inclined wall that extends from the flange so as to separate from the outer panel; and a bottom portion that is continuous with the inclined wall and is separated from the flange, andthe first connecting portion is connected to the flange.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present invention, in an automobile panel, sufficient surface rigidity can be secured in an outer panel even at a location where a space between an inner panel and the outer panel is narrow, while also achieving a reduction in weight.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT

Hereunder, an embodiment of the present invention is described while referring to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, a case in which an automobile hood is taken as one example of an automobile panel is described. Note that, the automobile panel of the present invention is not limited to an automobile hood, and can be applied to an automobile outer skin panel that includes an inner panel and an outer panel, for example, an outer skin panel of an automobile body such as a door panel, a roof panel, a fender panel, or a rear gate panel.

FIG.1is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating an outer panel2and an inner panel3of an automobile panel1according to one embodiment of the present invention.FIG.2is a plan view illustrating the inner panel3of the automobile panel1and members installed on the inner panel3.FIG.3is a plan view illustrating a state in which the inner panel3and an interior member unit5illustrated inFIG.2are separated.FIG.4is a view illustrating one part ofFIG.2in an enlarged manner.FIG.5is a schematic perspective view illustrating a first other member11and a second other member12.FIG.6is a schematic cross-sectional view along a line VI-VI inFIG.4, in which the outer panel2is illustrated, and illustration of a rear side of the cross section is omitted.FIG.7Ais a view illustrating one interior member30as seen in a sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2,FIG.7Bis a view illustrating one interior member30from a short-length direction D2of the interior member30, andFIG.7Cis a rear side view of one interior member30. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.1toFIG.7Cas appropriate.

The automobile panel1is an automobile front hood that is provided at the front part of an automobile, and is also called a “bonnet”. In the present embodiment, an automobile that includes the automobile panel1is disclosed. An automobile in which the automobile panel1is provided is, for example, a passenger vehicle. A sedan-type passenger vehicle, a coupe-type passenger vehicle, a hatchback-type passenger vehicle, a minivan-type passenger vehicle, an SUV (sport utility vehicle) type passenger vehicle and the like can be mentioned as examples of the passenger vehicle.

Note that, in the present description, the terms “front”, “rear”, “left”, “right”, and “upper” and “lower” are used taking a time when the automobile panel1is mounted to an automobile (vehicle) and the automobile panel1is closed as the basis. The term “front” refers to a direction in which the automobile advances. The term “rear” refers to a direction in which the automobile reverses. The term “right” refers to a turning direction of the automobile when the automobile which is advancing turns to the right. The term “left” refers to a turning direction of the automobile when the automobile which is advancing turns to the left. Further, in the present embodiment, a vehicle cross direction of the automobile to which the automobile panel1is mounted is referred to as a “cross direction X”. Further, a vehicle length direction of the automobile to which the automobile panel1is mounted is referred to as a “longitudinal direction Y”. Furthermore, a vehicle height direction of the automobile to which the automobile panel1is mounted is referred to as a “height direction Z”.

The automobile panel1has: the sheet-shaped outer panel2which is located on the outer side of the vehicle; the inner panel3which is joined to the outer panel2and which is arranged on the inner side of the vehicle; a joint4that joins the outer panel2and the inner panel3; the interior member unit5including a plurality of interior members30; and the first other members11and11, the second other members12and12, a third other member13, and a fourth other member14which are formed as separate members from the interior member unit5.

The interior member unit5, the first other members11and11, the second other members12and12, the third other member13, and the fourth other member14are arranged in a space S between the inner panel3and the outer panel2.

The outer panel2is a portion that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the automobile. The outer panel2is formed of, for example, a metal material such as a mild steel sheet or a high-tensile strength steel sheet. Examples of the high-tensile strength steel sheet that can be mentioned include steel sheets having a tensile strength of 340 MPa or more, for example, a steel sheet having a tensile strength of 590 MPa or more. The outer panel2is formed, for example, by subjecting a single steel sheet to press working or the like. A sheet thickness of the outer panel2(thickness of the steel sheet) is set to 0.6 mm or less, preferably is set to 0.5 mm or less, and more preferably is set to 0.4 mm or less. The sheet thickness of the outer panel2is, for example, 0.30 to 0.45 mm. The thinner the sheet thickness of the outer panel2is made in this way, the lighter the automobile panel1can be made.

Note that, in a case where the outer panel2is made of an aluminum alloy, the sheet thickness of the outer panel2is, for example, 0.5 to 0.8 mm.

There are no particular restrictions with regard to the shape of the outer panel2. An outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2is joined to the inner panel3by sandwiching an outer circumferential edge part3aof the inner panel3. More specifically, the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2includes a portion folded backwards by hemming, and the outer circumferential edge part2afirmly sandwiches and is thereby joined to the outer circumferential edge part3aof the inner panel3, and by this means the respective outer circumferential edge parts2aand3aof the outer panel2and the inner panel3are joined to each other. Note that, the width of each of the outer circumferential edge parts2aand3ais approximately several millimeters, and these portions2aand3aare formed over the entire circumference of the panels2and3.

The inner panel3reinforces the outer panel2by being joined to an undersurface2bof the outer panel2. By this means, the inner panel3increases the surface rigidity such as the panel rigidity of the outer panel2.

The panel rigidity corresponds to a feeling of elastic resistance or a sensation of deflection deformation when the outer panel2is pressed with a hand. This characteristic is usually represented by the deflection when a load is applied, and the smaller the deflection is when a constant load is applied, the higher the panel rigidity is. Further, the surface rigidity refers to the difficulty of deformation of the outer panel in a certain area range when the outer panel2receives a load such as a vertical load from the outer surface of the outer panel2.

The inner panel3is formed, for example, of a metal material such as a steel sheet. The inner panel3is formed, for example, by subjecting a single steel sheet to press working. The inner panel3may be an integrally formed product, or may be formed by joining a plurality of members together. In the present embodiment, the inner panel3is an integrally formed product. The sheet thickness of the inner panel3(thickness of the steel sheet) is preferably 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm. The sheet thickness of the inner panel3may be less than the sheet thickness of the outer panel2, may be the same as the sheet thickness of the outer panel2, or may be greater than the sheet thickness of the outer panel2.

Note that, in a case where the inner panel3is made of an aluminum alloy, the sheet thickness of the inner panel3is, for example, 0.5 to 1.0 mm.

The inner panel3has the aforementioned outer circumferential edge part3a, an outer circumferential portion6which is arranged on the inner side of the outer circumferential edge part3aas viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2(in the present embodiment, when viewed in the height direction Z), and an overhanging structure7that is surrounded by the outer circumferential portion6.

Note that, in the present embodiment, the phrase “viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2” is also abbreviated to simply “viewed in the sheet thickness direction”.

When the automobile panel1closes the engine room, one part of the outer circumferential edge part3aand the outer circumferential portion6of the inner panel3is received by the automobile body (not illustrated) together with the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2. By this means, a load that acts on the outer panel2is received by the automobile body (not illustrated) through the inner panel3.

The outer circumferential portion6is a three-dimensionally shaped portion formed in the inner panel3. In the present embodiment, the outer circumferential portion6is formed over the entire area in a circumferential direction of the outer circumferential edge part3a. Note that, the outer circumferential portion6may be formed only at one part in the circumferential direction of the outer circumferential portion6of the inner panel3, and in such a case the outer circumferential edge part3aand the overhanging structure7are directly connected.

The outer circumferential portion6includes a portion with a shape that rises and falls in the height direction Z as the position thereof moves in a horizontal direction over the inner panel3. The specific shape of the outer circumferential portion6is not limited as long as the outer circumferential portion6has a shape that suppresses deflection deformation of the outer circumferential portion6in a downward direction when the outer circumferential portion6of the inner panel3receives a load which deflects the outer circumferential portion6downward due to the overhanging structure7of the inner panel3being lifted up by a human hand or the like.

In the present embodiment, the outer circumferential portion6has a protruding portion8, a narrow portion9arranged around the protruding portion8, and a front portion10arranged frontward of the narrow portion9.

The protruding portion8protrudes toward the inner side of the vehicle (lower side) with respect to the outer circumferential edge part3athat is joined to the outer panel2as viewed from a direction orthogonal to the sheet thickness direction (height direction Z) of the outer panel2, and thereby separates from the outer panel2.

In the present embodiment, the protruding portion8is formed at an intermediate portion in the cross direction X that is at a location that is advanced to the rearward side in the longitudinal direction Y from the overhanging structure7. The intermediate portion of the protruding portion8in the cross direction X advances downward (toward the inner side of the vehicle) as it advances rearward from the overhanging structure7, and thereafter advances along the longitudinal direction Y, and then advances upward (toward the outer side of the vehicle) to be continuous with the narrow portion9. A clearance between a bottom portion8aof the protruding portion8and the outer panel2is greater than a clearance between a bottom portion26, described later, of the overhanging structure7and the outer panel2. The fourth other member14is arranged between the bottom portion8aof the protruding portion8and the outer panel2.

In the present embodiment, the fourth other member14is, for example, a cable, and is a cable through which washer fluid for washing the windshield (not illustrated) of the automobile passes. In the present embodiment, the fourth other member14is a hollow cable formed of a flexible member such as rubber. The fourth other member14extends, for example, in the cross direction X above the protruding portion8, and is attached to the inner panel3by a not-illustrated hanger or the like.

In the present embodiment the narrow portion9is formed around the protruding portion8in the outer circumferential portion6. In the present embodiment, in the outer circumferential portion6, the narrow portion9is arranged rearward of and on both sides in the cross direction X of the protruding portion8, and the protruding portion8is surrounded by the narrow portion9as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. The narrow portion9is arranged up to both ends in the cross direction X at the rear part of the automobile panel1. The narrow portion9is also arranged above a suspension tower100to be described later. The distance to the outer panel2along the height direction Z is less than the distance along the height direction Z between the bottom portion8aof the protruding portion8and the outer panel2. The portion that is frontward of the narrow portion9in the outer circumferential portion6is the front portion10. The front portion10is, for example, a portion that is to the front relative to the suspension tower100in the sheet thickness direction in the outer circumferential portion6.

The overhanging structure7has a three-dimensional structure which is provided in order to receive a load acting on an upper face of the outer panel2. Although in the present embodiment the overhanging structure7is formed symmetrically in the cross direction X, the overhanging structure7may be asymmetrical in the cross direction X. The overhanging structure7has a plurality of units20(21to23). Note that, the units21to23are referred to generically as “units20”. As viewed in the sheet thickness direction, each unit20is arranged on the inner side of the inner panel3relative to the outer circumferential edge part3aof the inner panel3.

Each unit20is formed in an annular shape as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. In the present embodiment, three units21to23that are arranged in the cross direction X are provided. The units21and23on both end sides in the cross direction X are substantially trapezoidal as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. The unit22at the center in the cross direction X has a substantially triangular shape as viewed in the sheet thickness direction.

Each unit20has an annular flange24, an annular inclined wall25continuous with the flange24and extending from the flange24so as to separate from the outer panel2, and the bottom portion26which is continuous with the inclined wall25and is separated from the flange24.

In the present embodiment, the flanges24and the inclined walls25in the units21and23on both sides on the left and right are substantially trapezoidal as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, and the flange24and the inclined wall25in the central unit22are substantially triangular as viewed in the sheet thickness direction.

Each flange24is adjacent to the outer panel2and is a portion arranged closest to the outer panel2in each of the units21to23. In the present embodiment, in each of the units21to23, the joint4is arranged on an upper face24aof at least a part of the flange24, and the inner panel3is joined to the outer panel2through the joint4.

In the present embodiment, the joint4is an adhesive. A mastic sealer (mastic adhesive) can be exemplified as the adhesive. A resin-based adhesive can be exemplified as the mastic sealer. The adhesive may have a property of being cured at normal temperature (for example, 20 degrees Celsius), or may have a property of being cured by undergoing a heating process or a drying process.

The joint4is provided on the upper face24aof the flange24of each unit20. The joint4may be provided over the entire area in the circumferential direction of the upper face24aof each flange24, or may be provided intermittently in the circumferential direction. The joint4joins the flange24in which the relevant joint4is provided and the undersurface2bof the outer panel2.

A corresponding inclined wall25extends downward from each flange24. That is, the flange24is continuous with the upper end of the inclined wall25. A bottom portion26is continuous with the lower end of the inclined wall25. The bottom portions26of the respective units21to23are continuous with each other.

Note that, although in the present embodiment a form in which the flange24of the respective units21to23is an annular shape is described as an example, this need not be the case. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the flange24of the respective units21to23is not an annular shape as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, and is instead arranged intermittently along the circumferential direction of the units21to23.

The first other members11and11, the second other members12and12, and the third other member13are arranged around the aforementioned overhanging structure7.

The first other members11and11are, for example, provided in a pair at two ends in the cross direction X of the inner panel3at a rear end of the outer circumferential portion6, and connect the inner panel3and the outer panel2. In the present embodiment, the pair of first other members11and11are formed in a symmetrical shape in the cross direction X. Each first other member11is a member that is formed separately from the inner panel3, the outer panel2, and the interior member unit5.

Each first other member11has a sheet-shaped base11awhich is fixed to the narrow portion9of the inner panel3, and an arm11bwhich extends from the base11atoward the outer panel2and which is fixed to the outer panel2.

The second other members12are, for example, provided in a pair on two sides in the cross direction X at the rear end of the outer circumferential portion6, and connect the inner panel3and the outer panel2. In the present embodiment, the pair of second other members12and12are formed in a symmetrical shape in the cross direction X. Each second other member12is a member that is formed separately from the inner panel3, the outer panel2, and the interior member unit5. In the present embodiment, the pair of second other members12and12are arranged at positions that are advanced toward the front side of the vehicle and toward the inside in the cross direction X from the positions of the pair of first other members11and11.

Each second other member12has a sheet-shaped base12awhich is fixed to the narrow portion9of the inner panel3, a pair of arms12bwhich extend from the base12atoward the outer panel2, and a pair of flanges12cwhich are fixed to the pair of arms12band are fixed to the outer panel2.

The third other member13is provided, for example, at the center in the cross direction X of the inner panel3at a front end of the outer circumferential portion6, and connects the inner panel3and the outer panel2. In the present embodiment, the third other member13is a base member to which a U-shaped striker (not illustrated) for fixing the hood is attached. The third other member13is a member that is formed separately from the inner panel3, the outer panel2, and the interior member unit5.

The third other member13has a plurality of leg portions13awhich are fixed to the front portion10of the inner panel3, a sheet-shaped base13bwhich is fixed to an upper end of each leg portion13a, and a sheet-shaped striker base13cthat protrudes from the base13btoward the inner side of the vehicle (downward). The upper surface of the base13bis fixed to the outer panel2.

Next, a configuration of the interior member unit5is described.

The interior member unit5is configured so as to increase the surface rigidity of the outer panel2by joining the inner panel3and the outer panel2. In particular, the interior member unit5is provided in order to increase the strength of the narrow portion9which is a particularly narrow location between the inner panel3and the outer panel2of the automobile panel1. Therefore, the interior member unit5is arranged in the space S between the inner panel3and the outer panel2, and in the present embodiment is arranged in the narrow portion9. In the present embodiment, the interior member unit5joins each of the flanges24of the units21to23and the undersurface2bof the outer panel2. In the present embodiment, the interior member unit5is an integrally formed product, and is formed by subjecting a single steel sheet to press forming.

Note that, the interior member unit5including interior members30to be described later and the like may be made of synthetic resin such as fiber-reinforced plastic, or may be made of a composite material that uses both a steel sheet and fiber-reinforced plastic. Further, the interior member unit5may be made of an aluminum alloy at a location other than a location that is welded to the inner panel3or the outer panel2. In such a case, the interior member unit5may be made using at least one of a steel sheet and synthetic resin, in addition to the aluminum alloy.

The interior member unit5has a plurality of interior members30(31to39), and a connecting member50that connects the plurality of interior members30to each other. In the present embodiment, the interior members31to39are referred to generically as “interior members30”. Note that, the connecting member50may be omitted, and in such a case the interior members31to39are arranged as separate members to each other.

In the present embodiment, each portion of the interior member unit5is formed using one sheet-shaped portion (one layer), and is formed in a simple shape that does not have a configuration in which a sheet is folded up two times or more (folded into two layers or more). That is, in the present embodiment, in the interior member30, there is no location where the interior member30has been folded up two or more times. By providing the interior member30as a single-sheet member in this way, the sheet thickness is small, and the outer panel2can be stiffened at a narrow place between the inner panel3and the outer panel2. In particular, in a case where the inner panel3, the outer panel2, and the interior member30are each constituted by a steel sheet, the interior member30can be connected to at least one of the inner panel3and the outer panel2by welding.

Each interior member30is a sheet-shaped member that is a beam-shaped member. That is, in contrast to the first other member11, the second other member12, and the third other member13which are each columnar members, the respective interior members30are beam-shaped members that are elongated in a first direction D1to be described later.

In the present embodiment, the sheet thickness at each part in one interior member30is constant. In the present embodiment, as described in the foregoing, each interior member30is formed by subjecting a steel sheet to press forming, and is a lightweight steel sheet which is made extremely thin and has a thickness of 0.5 mm or less (for example, about 0.30 to 0.45 mm). Note that, in a case where the interior member30is an aluminum alloy sheet, the thickness of the interior member30is 0.5 to 0.8 mm.

Each interior member30is an elongated member that extends in the first direction D1along the undersurface2bof the outer panel2. In the present embodiment, the first direction D1is a direction that is approximately orthogonal to the height direction Z. The first direction D1lies along the direction from an inner region (inner portion surrounded by the outer circumferential edge part3aof the inner panel3) of the inner panel3as viewed in the sheet thickness direction toward the outer circumferential edge part3aof the inner panel3. Each interior member30includes a first end41which is one end in the first direction D1, and a second end42which is the other end in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, each interior member30has a length of about 150 mm in the first direction D1, a length of about 25 mm in a second direction D2that is orthogonal to the first direction D1as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, and a thickness of about 3 mm. Note that, the terms “first direction D1” and “second direction D2” each refer to a direction as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2. In each interior member30, the first direction D1is the longitudinal direction of the interior member30, and the second direction D2is the short-length direction of the interior member30.

Each interior member30has a base plate43, and a bead44that is formed on the base plate43. Note that, although a configuration in which the bead44is formed is mainly described in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the bead44is not formed may be adopted. A configuration may be adopted in which the bead44is not formed on the base plate43, and the entire interior member30is flat.

The base plate43is a rectangular planar portion in which, as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, the first direction D1is the longitudinal direction, and the second direction D2that is orthogonal to the first direction D1is the short-length direction. Note that, in some cases the base plate43may have a shape that is curved to an extent that matches a curved shape of the outer panel2. One of the ends of the base plate43in the first direction D1is the first end41of the interior member30. The first end41is, for example, a region of approximately 10% of the overall length of the interior member30in the first direction D1. The first end41has a first connecting portion45that is connected to the inner panel3.

In the interior member30, the first connecting portion45is a portion that is connected to the inner panel3. In the present embodiment, the first connecting portion45is joined (fixed) to the inner panel3by welding. In the present embodiment, the first connecting portion45is joined to the upper face24aof a rear end in the longitudinal direction Y of the flange24of the respective units20of the inner panel3. Thus, in the inner panel3, at the flange24that is joined to the outer panel2, the inner panel3and the first connecting portion45of the interior member30are connected. According to this configuration, the interior member30can be arranged in a narrow place between the inner panel3and the outer panel2, and the space required to stiffen the outer panel2can be made thin. In the present embodiment, the first connecting portion45is connected to the inner panel3at a portion that is parallel to the outer panel2. Note that, the first connecting portion45may be joined to the inner panel3using an adhesive such as a mastic sealer. Further, in the present embodiment, the joints4are provided in some of the interior members30and at some parts of the connecting member50, and the interior member unit5and the outer panel2are joined by the joints4.

The bead44that extends along the first direction D1is formed from an intermediate portion of the base plate43in the first direction D1to the second end42. The bead44is provided in order to increase the bending rigidity (section modulus) of the interior members30. In the present embodiment, one bead44is formed in each interior member30. Since it is preferable for the interior member30to be lightweight, there is a limit with respect to making the length (linear length) of the interior member30long in a cross section orthogonal to the first direction D1. On the premise that the length (linear length) of the interior member30in the aforementioned cross section is constant, a geometrical moment of inertia with respect to the aforementioned cross section in a case where a single tall bead is provided will be greater than a geometrical moment of inertia with respect to the aforementioned cross section in a case where a plurality of short beads are provided. By this means, the bending rigidity of each interior member30can be increased more while suppressing an increase in weight, and the stiffening effect with respect to the outer panel2can be increased further. In the present embodiment, the bead44is formed at a location other than the first end41in the first direction D1. In the second direction D2that is orthogonal to the first direction D1as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, the bead44is arranged at an intermediate portion of the base plate43. In the present embodiment, the bead44is formed up to the second end42, and a concavity in the bead44is open to an end face on the second end42side. On the other hand, the bead44is not formed up to the first end41, and the concave shape of the bead44is closed in the vicinity of an end on the first end41side. Note that, the concave shape of the bead44may be closed on both sides in the first direction D1by forming the bead44only at an intermediate portion of the base plate43in the first direction D1. Further, the bead44may be formed so that the concavity in the bead44is open to an end face on one side or the other side in the second direction D2.

The dimensions of the bead44in the first direction D1, the second direction D2, and the sheet thickness direction (height direction Z) are appropriately set according to the bending rigidity required for the interior member30. In the present embodiment, a first side face43athat faces the outer panel2, and a second side face43bthat faces in the opposite direction to the first side face43aare provided in the base plate43, and the bead44protrudes on the second side face43bside. According to this configuration, the bead44is prevented from contacting the outer panel2.

In the present embodiment, the second end42includes the other end of the base plate43and one end of the bead44in the first direction D1. The second end42is, for example, a region that is approximately 10% of the overall length of the interior member30in the first direction D1. The second end42and the first end41are aligned in the first direction D1.

In the present embodiment, at a position which is separated from the first end41along the first direction D1, the interior member30has a second connecting portion46that is connected to the outer panel2. In the present embodiment, the second connecting portion46is formed in the base plate43. In the present embodiment, the second connecting portion46is arranged on the first side face43aof the base plate43at an intermediate portion of the base plate43in the first direction D1and at the second end42. The second connecting portion46is a portion that is joined to an undersurface2bof the outer panel2using a joining material47such as a mastic sealer, and is a portion that is in contact with the joining material47. In the present embodiment, the second connecting portions46are intermittently arranged at a plurality of locations (in the present embodiment, three locations) along the first direction D1. Note that, the second connecting portion46may extend continuously along the first direction D1.

In the present embodiment, the second connecting portions46are arranged at both ends of the base plate43in the second direction D2, and the second connecting portions46are provided at a total of six locations. Note that, it suffices that the number of second connecting portions46in one interior member30is one or more, and the specific number of second connecting portions46is not limited. By the second connecting portion46and the first connecting portion45being arranged separately from each other in the first direction D1, the interior member30, as a beam-shaped member, joins the inner panel3and the outer panel2to each other at locations that are separated in the first direction D1. Note that, the second connecting portion46may be joined to the inner panel3by welding.

In the present embodiment, the second connecting portions46on one end side in the second direction D2and the second connecting portions46on the other end side in the second direction D2in the interior member30are arranged symmetrically in the second direction D2, and their positions in the first direction D1are aligned. However, this need not be the case. For example, as illustrated inFIG.7Dthat shows a modification of the arrangement of the second connecting portions46, the second connecting portions46(joining materials47) may be provided in a staggered arrangement (a zigzag arrangement) as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. InFIG.7D, in one interior member30, the second connecting portions46(joining materials47) are arranged so as not to be aligned in the second direction D2. In one interior member30, a configuration in which the second connecting portion46is arranged on the one end side in the second direction D2and next a configuration in which the second connecting portion46is arranged on the other end side in the second direction D2are repeated as the position along the interior member30advances from the first end41side to the second end42side along the first direction D1. In a case where the number of the second connecting portions46on the one end side in the second direction D2and the number of the second connecting portions46on the other end side in the second direction D2are the same, the joining strength between the interior member30and the outer panel2can be made more equal at each portion on the second end42side of the interior member30. By providing the second connecting portions46in a zigzag arrangement in this way, thermal strain caused by the joining material47arranged at the second connecting portions46can be reduced more during bake-hardening of the automobile panel1.

The bending rigidity of the aforementioned interior member30depends on the thickness of the sheet material constituting the interior member30, and the shape of the bead44in a cross section orthogonal to the first direction D1(section modulus of the interior member30).

In the present embodiment, the connecting member50is formed integrally with each interior member30, and connects together the first ends41of adjacent interior members30. In the present embodiment, the connecting member50forms an arcuate band-like portion together with the first end41of each interior member30. In the present embodiment, the connecting member50forms an arcuate band-like portion by extending along the upper face24aof the rear end of the flange24of each of the plurality of units20. The connecting member50may be welded to the upper face24aof the flange24, or need not be joined to the upper face24a.

In the present embodiment, the interior member unit5is arranged symmetrically in the cross direction X, and a plurality (nine) of the interior members30(31to39) are arranged along the cross direction X. Note that, it suffices that there is at least one interior member30. In the present embodiment, the interior members31to39have the same shape but are different from each other with respect to at least one of the arrangement location and orientation thereof.

The interior members31and39arranged at both ends in the cross direction X in the interior member unit5are arranged in the vicinity of the front suspension tower100of the vehicle and stiffen the automobile panel1in the area around the suspension tower100. The suspension tower100is one frame member of the vehicle, and for example is a columnar portion to which an upper end of a shock absorber equipped with a spring (not illustrated) that transmits the weight of the automobile body to a suspension arm is attached. A gap between the inner panel3of the automobile panel1and the suspension tower100is several centimeters or less, and the distance between the inner panel3and the high-strength suspension tower100is short. The interior members31and39are arranged at locations facing the suspension tower100in the height direction Z, or in the vicinity of the suspension tower100. In this case, the term “vicinity” means that the interior members31and39and the upper end of the suspension tower100are adjacent in the sheet thickness direction (height direction Z) within, for example, a distance of about 10 cm or less.

The interior members31and39are the outermost interior members of the interior member unit5in the cross direction X, and the first direction D1is defined so that, the interior members31and39extend in a manner intersecting with the direction (longitudinal direction Y) in which both ends in the cross direction X of the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2extend as viewed in the sheet thickness direction.

The interior members32to38are arranged rearward of the respective units20, and stiffen the rear part of the automobile panel1. The interior members32to38are arranged in an intermediate portion of the interior member unit5in the cross direction X. With respect to the interior members32to38, the first direction D1is defined so that the interior members32to38extend in a manner intersecting with a direction (arcuate direction) in which a rear end in the longitudinal direction Y of the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2extends as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. In the present embodiment, the first direction D1of the interior members32to38extends along the longitudinal direction Y. The interior members32to38are arranged at a substantially equal pitch in the cross direction X. In the present embodiment, the interior members32to38are arranged between the pair of second other members12and12, with the second ends42being arranged in the vicinity of the rear end of the outer circumferential edge part3aof the inner panel3.

In the present embodiment, the interior members32and38that are each adjacent to one second other member12pass between the pair of flanges12cand the pair of arms12bof the corresponding second other member12, and are joined to the outer panel2at the second end42. According to this configuration, the interior members32and38are arranged in a state in which a portion that is advanced to the second end42side from the first end41overlaps with the second other member12as viewed in the sheet thickness direction.

The interior members33to36are arranged in a state in which a midway portion as a portion that is advanced to the second end42side from the first end41overlaps with the protruding portion8of the inner panel3as viewed in the sheet thickness direction.

Further, preferably, the first connecting portion45of the interior member30is adjacent to an end of the joint4that joins the inner panel3and the outer panel2. In this case, the term “adjacent” means the first connecting portion45and the end of the joint4are aligned with an interval of not more than several centimeters (including zero millimeters) therebetween. For example, the first connecting portions45of the interior members31and39are adjacent to one end4aof the joint4of the corresponding units21and23, respectively. According to this arrangement, the first connecting portion45is arranged in the vicinity of the end of the joint4, and as a result, the support rigidity of the outer panel2is prevented from suddenly changing at the end of the joint4, and thus the dent resistance of the outer panel2around the one end4aof the joint4can be increased. Dent resistance is an index of the difficulty of producing permanent strain which remains after the relevant part is strongly pressed (an index representing the difficulty of forming a dent flaw). For example, when the outer panel2is pressed down strongly, a dent flaw will easily be formed if the dent resistance is low. Further, if the dent resistance is low, when the outer panel2is hit with a pebble or the like, a dent flaw will be easily formed.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, for example, the interior member30is arranged in the narrow portion9. The interior member30is an elongated member extending in the first direction D1, in which the first connecting portion45of the first end41is connected to the inner panel3, and the second connecting portion46is connected to the outer panel2at a position that is separated from the position of the first end41. According to this configuration, the inner panel3and the outer panel2can be joined by the thin interior member30. Furthermore, the interior member30is joined to the inner panel3and the outer panel2at positions that are separated from each other in the first direction D1. With such a configuration, sufficient surface rigidity can be secured by the interior member30even in the narrow portion9, that is, even at a location where the space S between the inner panel3and the outer panel2is narrow and a columnar member having high rigidity cannot be arranged. Further, since the surface rigidity of the outer panel2can be secured by the interior member30, the panels2and3can be formed of thin and lightweight members. As described above, in the automobile panel1, sufficient surface rigidity can be secured in the outer panel2at even a location where the space S between the inner panel3and the outer panel2is narrow, while also achieving a thin sheet thickness and a reduction in weight in the panels2and3.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the interior member30is a sheet-shaped member. According to this configuration, the interior member30can be made thin. Hence, the interior member30can be arranged in the space S between the inner panel3and the outer panel2in the narrow portion9. By this means, around the narrow portion9, the effect of stiffening the outer panel2achieved by the interior member30can be further enhanced.

Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, the interior member30has the bead44that is formed along the first direction D1. According to this configuration, since the bending rigidity of the interior member30can be markedly increased, the strength by which the inner panel3and the outer panel2are stiffened can be further increased. Furthermore, when the bead44is used, the stiffening effect of the interior member30can be sufficiently exhibited while also forming the bead44in a manner so that the thickness of the interior member30does not become excessively large.

Further, according to the present embodiment, by arranging the interior members32and38in narrow locations around the second other members12and12, the surface rigidity of the outer panel2at the narrow locations can be further increased.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the interior members33to37are each arranged in a state in which a portion that is advanced to the second end42side from the first end41overlaps with the protruding portion8of the inner panel3as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. According to this configuration, even at the protruding portion8where a columnar member cannot be arranged between the inner panel3and the outer panel2because the fourth other member14is arranged there, the automobile panel1can be stiffened by the interior members33to37.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2is joined to the inner panel3by sandwiching the inner panel3, and the first direction D1of the respective interior members31to39intersects with the direction along the outer circumferential edge part2aat the closest location to the relevant interior member31to39. According to this configuration, the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2is firmly joined to the inner panel3by hemming. The interior member30arranged in the vicinity of this joining location can co-operate with the outer circumferential edge part2ato increase the surface rigidity of the automobile panel1over a wider range.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the automobile panel1is an automobile hood, and a plurality of the interior members31to39are aligned and arranged at the rear part of the automobile panel1. According to this configuration, by co-operation between the plurality of interior members31to39, the rigidity with respect to a load from the sheet thickness direction (height direction Z) at the rear part of the automobile panel1can be further increased. As a result, in the event of occurrence of a collision accident in which a pedestrian collides with the rear part of the automobile panel1, it is possible to mitigate an impact which causes the pedestrian to be thrust upward from a member (for example, the suspension tower100) inside the engine room by receiving the pedestrian in a wide area of the automobile panel1.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the respective first ends41of the plurality of interior members31to39are connected to a common connecting member50. According to this configuration, the plurality of interior members31to39can be handled as a single component. Hence, the workload required to attach the interior members31to39to the inner panel3and the outer panel2can be reduced. Further, since the relative positions of the respective interior members31to39are fixed, the mounting positions of the interior members31to39with respect to the panels2and3can be made more accurate.

Further, according to the present embodiment, in the interior member unit5, the interior members31and39in which the first direction D1includes a directional component in the cross direction X are connected to the two ends of the connecting member50. According to this configuration, the outer circumferential edge part2aof the outer panel2and the interior members31and39co-operate so that the surface rigidity of the automobile panel1can be further increased.

An embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. In the present invention, various changes are possible within the scope of the accompanying claims. Note that, hereunder, configurations that are different from the above embodiment and modifications are mainly described, and components that are the like as components in the above embodiment and modifications are denoted by the like reference symbols and a detailed description thereof is omitted.

In the embodiment described above, a configuration in which the respective interior members31to39have the same shape is described as an example. However, this need not be the case.

FIG.8AandFIG.8Bare side views illustrating interior members31A and39A and the like pertaining to a first modification. As illustrated inFIG.8AandFIG.8B, the bending rigidity may be made to differ between the interior members31A and39A and the interior members32to38. That is, a plurality of interior members31A,32to38, and39A having different bending rigidities may be provided. In this first modification, as the interior members30, the interior members31A and39A in which the bending rigidity is relatively high are provided as first interior members, and the interior members32to38in which the bending rigidity is relatively low are provided as second interior members. In this first modification, the plurality of interior members31A,32to38, and39A having different bending rigidities are arranged according to the strength of the vehicle at locations advanced by a predetermined amount (for example, several millimeters to several tens of millimeters) toward the inner side (downward side) of the vehicle from the automobile panel1(outer panel2or inner panel3).

The interior members31A and39A are members which are used instead of the interior members31and39, and are arranged so as to overlap as viewed in the sheet thickness direction with the suspension tower100as a high strength region where the strength of the vehicle is relatively high at locations advanced by a predetermined amount (for example, several millimeters to several tens of millimeters) toward the inner side (downward side) of the vehicle from the inner panel3(or the outer panel2). On the other hand, the interior members32to38are arranged so as to overlap as viewed in the sheet thickness direction with a low strength region101(cavity region) where the strength of the vehicle is relatively low at locations advanced by the same amount as the aforementioned predetermined amount toward the inner side of the vehicle from the inner panel3(or the outer panel2). The sheet thickness of the interior members31A and39A may be made thicker than the sheet thickness of the interior members32to38, or/and the height of a bead44A may be made higher than the height of the bead44.

According to this first modification, the surface rigidity of the automobile panel1can be increased by arranging the interior members31A and39A that have high bending rigidity with respect to the suspension tower100(high strength region) that is arranged on the inner side of the vehicle relative to the automobile panel1. As a result, in the event of occurrence of a collision accident in which a pedestrian collides with the rear part of the automobile panel1, it is possible to more reliably mitigate an impact which causes the pedestrian to be thrust upward from the suspension tower100or the like inside the engine room by receiving the pedestrian with the automobile panel1. Further, at the low strength region101, since the outer panel2can be stiffened with the lightweight interior members32to38, the automobile panel1can be made lightweight.

In the embodiment described above, a form in which the base plate43is planar has been described as an example. However, this need not be the case.FIG.9Ais a schematic perspective view of an interior member30B pertaining to a second modification. As illustrated inFIG.9A, each interior member30B has a base plate43B. Note that, although in this second modification a configuration in which a bead is not formed on the base plate43B is mainly described, this need not be the case. A bead may be formed on the base plate43B. In the case of forming a bead on the base plate43B, a bead that is similar to the bead44that extends along the first direction D1is formed on at least one of a first portion431B, a second portion432B, and a rising portion433B, which are described later, of the base plate43B.

The base plate43B is a component which, as viewed from the first direction D1, is formed in a U-shape by subjecting a starting material that is a flat sheet to press forming, and as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, is a planar portion that is approximately rectangular in which the first direction D1is taken as the longitudinal direction, and the second direction D2that is orthogonal to the first direction D1is taken as the short-length direction. Note that, in some cases the base plate43B may have a shape that is curved to an extent that matches the curved shape of the outer panel2.

The base plate43B includes the first portion431B including a first end41, the rising portion433B that rises to the outer panel2side from the first portion431B, and the second portion432B that extends from the rising portion433B and whose position in the sheet thickness direction (height direction Z) of the outer panel2is different from the position of the first portion431B.

One end of the base plate43B in the first direction D1is the first end41of the interior member30B. In the present second modification, in this embodiment, the second end42includes the other end of the base plate43B in the first direction D1. The second end42and the first end41are aligned in the first direction D1. The upper side face of the second portion432B is the first side face43a, and the second connecting portion46as a location where the joining material47is arranged is provided on the first side face43a. The second connecting portion46is arranged at a position that is separated from the first end41along the first direction D1. Preferably, a plurality of the second connecting portions46are provided along the first direction D1. Further, preferably, on the first side face43a, a plurality of the second connecting portions46are arranged in the vicinity of one end and the vicinity of the other end in the first direction D1, and are arranged at an equal pitch along the first direction D1. The rising portion433B extends in the height direction Z, and connects together the first portion431B and the second portion432B so that the first portion431B and the second portion432B are aligned in the height direction Z.

According to the present second modification, a load from the outer panel2can be received while the interior member30B including the rising portion433B moderately deflects. As a result, the surface rigidity of the outer panel2can be increased.

Note that, in the second modification, the first portion431B and the second portion432B of the base plate43B are aligned in the height direction Z. However, this need not be the case. For example, as illustrated inFIG.9Bthat shows a modification of the second modification, the first portion431B and the second portion432B may be arranged separated from each other so as not to overlap when viewed in the sheet thickness direction. In this case, the interior member30B is formed in an S-shape or a Z-shape as viewed from the first direction D1.

FIG.10Ais a schematic perspective view of an interior member30C pertaining to a third modification. As illustrated inFIG.10A, each interior member30C has a base plate43C. Note that, although in this third modification a configuration in which a bead is not formed on the base plate43C is mainly described, this need not be the case. A bead may be formed on the base plate43C. In the case of forming a bead on the base plate43C, a bead that is similar to the bead44that extends along the first direction D1is formed on at least one of a first portion431C and a second portion432C, which are described later, of the base plate43C.

The base plate43C is a component which, as viewed from the second direction D2, is formed in an S-shape by subjecting a starting material that is a flat sheet to press forming, and as viewed in the sheet thickness direction, is a planar portion that is approximately rectangular in which the first direction D1is taken as the longitudinal direction, and the second direction D2that is orthogonal to the first direction D1is taken as the short-length direction. Note that, in some cases the base plate43C may have a shape that is curved to an extent that matches the curved shape of the outer panel2.

The base plate43C includes the first portion431C including a first end41, a rising portion433C that rises to the outer panel2side from the first portion431C, and the second portion432C that extends from the rising portion433C and whose position in the sheet thickness direction (height direction Z) of the outer panel2is different from the position of the first portion431C.

One end of the base plate43C in the first direction D1is the first end41of the interior member30C. In the present third modification, in this embodiment, the second end42includes the other end of the base plate43C in the first direction D1. The second end42and the first end41are aligned in the first direction D1. The upper side face of the second portion432C is the first side face43a, and the second connecting portion46as a location where the joining material47is arranged is provided on the first side face43a. The second connecting portion46is arranged at a position that is separated from the first end41along the first direction D1. Preferably, a plurality of the second connecting portions46are provided along the first direction D1. Further, preferably, on the first side face43a, a plurality of the second connecting portions46are arranged in the vicinity of one end and the vicinity of the other end in the first direction D1, and are arranged at an equal pitch along the first direction D1. The rising portion433C extends in the height direction Z, and connects together the first portion431C and the second portion432C so that the first portion431C and the second portion432C are aligned in the first direction D1.

According to the present third modification, a load from the outer panel2can be received while the interior member30C including the rising portion433C moderately deflects. As a result, the surface rigidity of the outer panel2can be increased.

Note that, in the third modification, the first portion431C and the second portion432C of the base plate43C do not face each other in the height direction Z. However, this need not be the case. For example, as illustrated inFIG.10Bthat shows a modification of the third modification, the first portion431C and the second portion432C may be arranged so as to partially overlap as viewed in the sheet thickness direction and to be separated from each other in the height direction Z. In this case, the interior member30C is formed in a U-shape as viewed from the second direction D2.

In the embodiment and the first to third modifications described above, a form in which the automobile panel is an automobile hood is described as an example. However, this need not be the case.FIG.11is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a fourth modification. An automobile panel1D illustrated inFIG.11is a door panel that is one part of a door for allowing an occupant to get into and out of a vehicle.

The automobile panel1D has a sheet-shaped outer panel2D located on the outer side of a vehicle, an inner panel3D that is joined to the outer panel2D and arranged on the inner side of the vehicle, and a side beam55and a plurality of interior members30D which are arranged in a space S between the inner panel3D and the outer panel2D.

The materials and thicknesses of the outer panel2D, the inner panel3D, and the interior member30D are the same as the materials and thicknesses of the corresponding outer panel2, inner panel3, and interior member30of the embodiment.

An outer circumferential edge part2aD of the outer panel2D is joined to the inner panel3D by sandwiching an outer circumferential edge part3aD of the inner panel3D. More specifically, the outer circumferential edge part2aD of the outer panel2D includes a portion that is folded back by hemming, and the outer circumferential edge part2aD firmly sandwiches the outer circumferential edge part3aD of the inner panel3D and is thereby joined to the outer circumferential edge part3aD.

The outer panel2D constitutes one part of the outer surface of the vehicle, and has a curved surface. The inner panel3D is arranged so that a location other than the outer circumferential edge part3aprotrudes toward the inner side of the vehicle relative to the outer panel2D. A door glass56is housed in the space S between the inner panel3D and the outer panel2D. The side beam55is a member formed of metal, synthetic resin, or a composite material of metal and synthetic resin or the like that is arranged along the vehicle length direction, and both ends thereof are fixed to the inner panel3D.

Interior members31D and32D are provided as a plurality of interior members30D. Note that, although in the present modification the interior members31D and32D are separate members, the interior members31D and32D may be a single member in which the interior members31D and32D are connected to each other by a connecting member. Each interior member30D (31D,32D) is a sheet-shaped member, and is a beam-shaped member elongated in the first direction D1.

Each interior member30D is an elongated member extending in the first direction D1along the outer panel2D, and includes a first end41D that is one end in the first direction D1, and a second end42D that is the other end in the first direction D1.

The first end41D has a first connecting portion45D that is connected to the inner panel3D. Further, each interior member30D has a second connecting portion46D that is connected to the outer panel2D, at a position that is separated from the first end41D along the first direction D1(for example, a portion near to the second end42D).

The interior members31D and32D have different bending rigidities to each other. The interior members31D and32D having these different bending rigidities are arranged according to the strength of the vehicle (the automobile panel1) at locations advanced by a predetermined amount toward the inner side of the vehicle from the outer panel2D.

In the fourth modification, the first interior member31D whose bending rigidity is relatively high and the second interior member32D whose bending rigidity is relatively low are provided.

The first interior member31D is arranged so that, as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2D, the first interior member31D overlaps with a low strength region101D where the strength of the vehicle is relatively low, at a location advanced by a predetermined amount (for example, about several tens of millimeters) toward the inner side of the vehicle from the outer panel2D. The low strength region101D is a location where the side beam55is not arranged as viewed in the sheet thickness direction. On the other hand, the second interior member32D is arranged so that, as viewed in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2D, the second interior member32D overlaps with the side beam55that is a high strength region where the strength of the vehicle is relatively high, at a location advanced by the aforementioned predetermined amount toward the inner side of the vehicle from the outer panel2D. In the second interior member32D, for example, a second portion432D, described later, of a base plate43D overlaps with the side beam55as viewed in the sheet thickness direction.

Each interior member30D (31D,32D) has a base plate43D.

The base plate43D includes a first portion431D including the first end41D, a rising portion433D that rises from the first portion431D to the outer panel2D side, and the second portion432D that extends from the rising portion433D and whose position in the sheet thickness direction of the outer panel2D is different from the position of the first portion41D.

Further, a bead44D is formed on the base plate43D of the first interior member31D, but a bead is not provided on the second interior member31D. By this means, the bending rigidity of the first interior member31D is made greater than the bending rigidity of the second interior member32D. In the interior member31D, the bead44D is formed, for example, from the rising portion433D to the second end42D of the second portion432D. Note that, the bending rigidities of the interior members31D and32D may be made to differ from each other by making the sheet thickness of the first interior member31D greater than the sheet thickness of the second interior member32D.

The first connecting portion45D that is connected to the inner panel3D is provided in the first end41D of each interior member30D. In the second portion432D of each interior member30D, the second connecting portion46D is arranged on a side face of the base plate43D. The second connecting portion46D is joined to the inner surface of the outer panel2D using a joining material47D such as a mastic sealer.

According to this fourth modification, sufficient surface rigidity can be secured by the interior member30D even at a location where the space S between the inner panel3D and the outer panel2D is narrow and a columnar member having high rigidity cannot be arranged.

Further, by arranging the interior member31D having high bending rigidity with respect to the low strength region101D that is arranged on the inner side of the vehicle relative to the outer panel2D, the rigidity of the automobile panel1D at the low strength region101D can be increased. As a result, in the event of occurrence of a collision accident in which an object such as a utility pole collides with the automobile panel1D due to a lateral collision of the vehicle, it is possible to further reduce the amount by which the object enters the inner side of the vehicle by receiving the object with the interior member31D. In addition, in the region in which the side beam55is arranged which is a high strength region, the outer panel2D can be stiffened by the interior member32D that is light in weight, and hence the automobile panel1D can be made lightweight.

Further, in the embodiment and respective modifications described above, the interior member unit5and the inner panel3are formed as separate members. However, the interior members31to39and the inner panel3may be integrally formed.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention can be widely applied as an automobile panel.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST