Steering wheel damping mechanism

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of AGV transportation equipment, in particular to a steering wheel damping mechanism. The steering wheel damping mechanism is arranged between a supporting table used for installing a rotary table and a bracket used for loading a power wheel set. The rotary table is provided with a rotating axis, and the rotary table is configured to rotate around the rotating axis along with driving of the pair of power wheel sets. The steering wheel damping mechanism comprises a plurality of damping units which are arranged in parallel. The multiple shock-proof units are arranged between the bracket and the supporting table in a rectangular array mode. The shock-proof unit is constructed to buffer the supporting table in the axial direction of the rotary table, and the shock-proof unit is arranged parallel to the rotating axis. The steering wheel damping mechanism ensures the steering stability, and particularly ensures the steering function of the steering wheel during high-speed turning.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of AGV transportation equipment technology, specifically to a steering wheel shock absorption mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) can automatically travel along preset paths to perform material handling and transportation tasks, effectively improving production and logistics efficiency. The steering principles of AGV steering wheels include hinged steering and differential steering. Hinged steering uses a hinged connection mechanism between the vehicle chassis and the steering wheel. When steering is needed, the vehicle control system drives the steering wheel to rotate around the hinged axis at a certain angle. Differential steering, on the other hand, achieves steering based on the speed difference between the different wheels.

[0003] Most existing AGV steering wheels are undamped load-bearing structures, including the hub, tires, motor, reducer, and control system. In relatively flat and smooth indoor environments, such as modern warehouses and factory workshops, undamped AGV steering wheels perform well. In these scenarios, the road conditions are good, and the AGV experiences minimal bumps and impacts during operation, allowing the steering wheels to stably carry goods and complete transportation tasks.

[0004] However, under heavy loads and on uneven roads, the undamped steering wheels of an AGV make it difficult to maintain a stable center of gravity. Without shock absorbers to cushion road impacts, the vehicle is prone to swaying and tilting. For example, when an AGV travels on potholed surfaces carrying heavy loads, the weight of the load exacerbates the swaying caused by road bumps. Furthermore, during this swaying, the steering encoder may generate erroneous pulse signals due to the vehicle's vibrations, preventing the AGV's control system from accurately determining the vehicle's position and driving status, thus affecting the accuracy of automated operations. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a shock-absorbing mechanism for AGV transport vehicles during operation, so as to ensure the stability of steering, especially when turning at high speed, to ensure the steering function of the steering wheel.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following solution:

[0007] A steering wheel damping mechanism is disposed between a support platform for mounting a rotary table and a bracket for loading a power wheel assembly;

[0008] The rotary table is provided with a rotation axis, and the rotary table is configured to rotate about the rotation axis under the drive of a pair of power wheel sets.

[0009] The steering wheel damping mechanism includes multiple parallel damping units arranged in a rectangular array between the bracket and the support platform. The damping units are configured to buffer the support platform along the axial direction of the rotary table, and are arranged parallel to the rotation axis.

[0010] Preferably, a guide mechanism is provided between the bracket and the support platform, and the bracket is connected to the support platform through the guide mechanism.

[0011] Preferably, the shock absorber unit includes a guide post and a compression spring. A first mounting hole is provided on the support platform, and a second mounting hole corresponding to the first mounting hole is provided on the bracket. The guide post is configured to extend from the first mounting hole and be embedded in the second mounting hole, and the compression spring is sleeved on the guide post.

[0012] Preferably, one end of the guide post is provided with a limiting step that matches the first mounting hole, and a pressure cap is provided on the outside of the first mounting hole. The pressure cap is installed on the support platform by fasteners to form an axial limit on the guide post.

[0013] Preferably, a bushing is provided in the second mounting hole, and the guide post is embedded in the bushing.

[0014] Preferably, the guiding mechanism includes a connecting plate, a first connecting column, and a second connecting column. The connecting plate is mounted on the side wall of the support platform via the first connecting column. The connecting plate is provided with a guide groove, which is arranged parallel to the axial direction of the rotary table. The second connecting column is embedded in the guide groove.

[0015] As a preferred option, the guiding mechanism corresponds one-to-one with the shock absorption unit.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the steering wheel damping mechanism provided by this utility model has the following substantial features and advancements: This steering wheel damping mechanism utilizes a shock-absorbing unit in conjunction with a differential steering mechanism, which makes the connection between the power wheel set and the turntable more flexible and adaptable. When the AGV makes a steering action, the steering wheel damping mechanism can automatically adjust according to different force conditions to ensure that the power wheel set maintains good contact and friction distribution with the ground. Especially when turning at high speed, the shock-absorbing unit can help the outer wheel better withstand greater pressure, while the inner wheel maintains appropriate grip, thereby improving the steering accuracy and flexibility and reducing sideslip or loss of control caused by improper steering. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a steering wheel shock absorption mechanism in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The main view.

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Top view.

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point AA.

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure at point B in the middle.

[0022] Reference numerals: 1. Drive wheel assembly; 2. Bracket; 3. Support platform; 4. Vibration damping unit; 5. Turntable; 6. Guide mechanism; 21. Second mounting hole; 31. First mounting hole; 41. Guide post; 42. Compression spring; 43. Limiting step; 44. Pressure cap; 45. Bushing; 61. Connecting plate; 62. First connecting post; 63. Second connecting post; 64. Guide groove. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The specific embodiments of this utility model will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] like Figures 1-5 As shown in the embodiment of this utility model, a steering wheel shock absorption mechanism is proposed, which aims to ensure the stability of steering during the operation of the AGV, especially to ensure the steering function of the steering wheel when turning at high speed.

[0025] The steering wheel damping mechanism proposed in this embodiment utilizes a shock-absorbing unit in conjunction with a differential steering mechanism, making the connection between the power wheel assembly and the turntable more flexible and adaptable. When the AGV performs a steering maneuver, the steering wheel damping mechanism automatically adjusts according to different force conditions, ensuring good contact and friction distribution between the power wheel assembly and the ground. Especially during high-speed turns, the shock-absorbing unit helps the outer wheel better withstand greater pressure, while the inner wheel maintains appropriate grip, thereby improving steering accuracy and flexibility, and reducing sideslip or loss of control caused by improper steering.

[0026] like Figure 1 Combination Figure 2 As shown, a steering wheel damping mechanism is arranged between a support platform 3 for mounting a rotary table 5 and a bracket 2 for loading a power wheel set 1. The rotary table 5 is provided with a rotation axis and is configured to rotate about the rotation axis in response to the drive of a pair of power wheel sets 1.

[0027] like Figure 3 As shown, the steering wheel damping mechanism includes multiple parallel damping units 4. The multiple damping units 4 are arranged in a rectangular array between the bracket 2 and the support platform 3. The damping units 4 are configured to buffer the support platform 3 in the axial direction of the rotary table 5, and the damping units 4 are arranged parallel to the rotation axis.

[0028] Multiple shock-absorbing units 4 are arranged in a rectangular array between the bracket 2 and the support platform 3, ensuring uniform force distribution in all directions. Impact forces from the front, rear, left, or right side of the AGV are evenly distributed across each shock-absorbing unit 4. When a wheel on one side of the AGV encounters a large bump, the rectangular array of shock-absorbing units 4 can evenly transfer the impact force from that side to the entire bracket 2 and support platform 3 structure, preventing excessive localized stress that could lead to structural deformation or damage, and effectively maintaining the integrity and stability of the overall AGV structure.

[0029] Multiple shock absorber units 4 arranged in a rectangular array can also improve buffering efficiency. Each shock absorber unit 4 has a relatively fixed area of ​​action and force path in the array, and can quickly and orderly undergo elastic deformation and energy absorption when vibration is transmitted. For example, on a continuously bumpy road surface, each shock absorber unit 4 responds sequentially according to the rectangular array layout, forming a coherent and efficient buffering system, minimizing the transmission of vibration to the AGV frame.

[0030] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, four shock-absorbing units 4 are arranged in a rectangular array between the bracket 2 and the support platform 3. During AGV operation, they can work together more effectively to suppress vehicle swaying and tilting. When traveling at high speeds or transporting heavy goods, the rectangular array of shock-absorbing units 4 can effectively reduce swaying caused by center of gravity shift or uneven road surfaces, keeping the AGV in a stable posture and improving the safety and reliability of the transportation process.

[0031] like Figure 1 Combination Figure 2 As shown, a guide mechanism 6 is provided between the bracket 2 and the support platform 3. The guide mechanism 6 is configured to restrict the bracket 2 from undulating along the axial direction of the rotary table 5 with the cushioning of the shock-absorbing unit 4. The bracket 2 is connected to the support platform 3 through the guide mechanism 6. The guide mechanism 6 and the shock-absorbing unit 4 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0032] The guide mechanism 6 precisely restricts the movement direction of the bracket 2, ensuring it moves only within a predetermined range along with the shock-absorbing unit 4. During AGV operation, regardless of road conditions, it ensures that the bracket 2 will not deviate from its axial direction or experience swaying or displacement. By tightly connecting the bracket 2 to the support platform 3 and restricting its movement, the guide mechanism 6 enhances the overall integrity of the AGV chassis structure. This integrity helps to better transmit and disperse impact forces and vibrations from the road surface. When carrying heavy loads or facing significant external forces, the components work together to reduce localized stress concentration.

[0033] For example, such as Figure 2 Combination Figure 4As shown, the guide mechanism 6 includes a connecting plate 61, a first connecting post 62, and a second connecting post 63. The connecting plate 61 is mounted on the side wall of the support platform 3 via the first connecting post 62. A guide groove 64 is provided on the connecting plate 61. The guide groove 64 is arranged parallel to the axial direction of the rotary table 5. The second connecting post 63 is embedded in the guide groove 64 and connected to the side wall of the bracket 2. The side wall of the guide groove 64 limits the movement of the side wall of the second connecting post 63.

[0034] By adjusting parameters such as the length, width, or depth of the guide groove 64, the requirements for the movement range and accuracy of the bracket 2 under different AGV models or working conditions can be adapted. For example, for small AGVs that need to maneuver flexibly in narrow spaces and have high requirements for shock absorption accuracy, a shorter and more precise guide groove 64 can be designed; while for large AGVs that carry heavier goods and travel at higher speeds, a longer, wider, and more robust guide groove 64 can be used to meet their requirements for stability and reliability.

[0035] like Figure 4 Combination Figure 5 As shown, the shock absorber unit 4 includes a guide post 41 and a compression spring 42. The guide post 41 serves as a guide within the shock absorber unit 4. When the shock absorber unit 4 is subjected to vibration and impact, the compression spring 42 deforms to absorb energy. The guide post 41 ensures that the spring moves in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation during compression and rebound, preventing instability such as bending, twisting, or lateral displacement of the spring. For example, when the AGV frequently turns or travels on bumpy roads, the guide post 41 can keep the movement trajectory of the shock absorber unit 4 straight, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire shock absorber unit 4, allowing the AGV's wheels to maintain good contact with the ground, and maintaining smooth driving and maneuverability.

[0036] like Figure 5 As shown, the support platform 3 has a first mounting hole 31. The bracket 2 has a second mounting hole 21 corresponding to the first mounting hole 31. The guide post 41 is configured to extend from the first mounting hole 31 and be embedded in the second mounting hole 21. One end of the guide post 41 has a limiting step 43 that matches the first mounting hole 31. A compression spring 42 is sleeved on the guide post 41. A pressure cap 44 is provided on the outside of the first mounting hole 31. The pressure cap 44 is mounted on the support platform 3 by fasteners to axially limit the guide post 41.

[0037] In this way, the guide post 41 passes through the first mounting hole 31 and the second mounting hole 21 and is fixed by the limiting step 43 and the pressure cap 44, effectively enhancing the connection rigidity between the support platform 3 and the bracket 2. When the AGV carries heavy objects or performs high-intensity operations, this rigid connection can better resist torsional and deformation forces. For example, when handling large and heavy goods, even if the AGV is subjected to large lateral forces or complex stress conditions due to uneven road surfaces, the shock absorption unit 4 structure can still remain stable, ensuring the safe operation of the AGV and the smooth transportation of goods.

[0038] like Figure 5 As shown, a bushing 45 is provided inside the second mounting hole 21, and the guide post 41 is embedded in the bushing 45. The bushing 45 effectively reduces the direct friction between the guide post 41 and the second mounting hole 21. During the frequent operation of the shock absorber unit 4, the guide post 41 continuously extends and retracts within the mounting hole. Without the bushing 45, the friction between metals would easily lead to wear on the guide post 41 and the surface of the mounting hole, affecting the accuracy and service life of the shock absorber unit 4.

[0039] For example, bushing 45 is usually made of wear-resistant materials such as nylon and polyurethane. Its low coefficient of friction can greatly reduce the degree of wear and ensure that the guide post 41 can still move smoothly in the mounting hole during long-term use, maintaining the stability and reliability of the shock absorption system.

[0040] In this embodiment of the invention, a steering wheel damping mechanism is used such that a pair of drive wheel sets 1 achieve steering through a speed difference. The friction generated between the drive wheels and the ground during rotation acts on the drive wheel sets 1 and the connected bracket 2, thus creating steering. For example, when turning left in place, the right drive wheel rotates forward while the left drive wheel rotates backward. At this time, the two drive wheels rotate at the same speed but in opposite directions, causing the turntable 5 on the bracket 2 to rotate around the rotation axis, achieving the in-place steering action.

[0041] The shock absorber unit 4, in conjunction with the differential steering mechanism, makes the connection between the power wheel set 1 and the turntable 5 more flexible and adaptable. When the AGV makes a steering maneuver, the shock absorber automatically adjusts according to different force conditions to ensure that the power wheel set 1 maintains good contact and friction distribution with the ground. Especially during high-speed cornering, the shock absorber unit 4 helps the outer wheels better withstand greater pressure while the inner wheels maintain appropriate grip, thereby improving steering accuracy and agility and reducing sideslip or loss of control caused by improper steering.

[0042] This utility model is not limited to the specific technical solutions described in the above embodiments. Besides the above embodiments, this utility model may have other implementation methods. For those skilled in the art, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A steering wheel damping mechanism, characterized in that, The steering wheel damping mechanism is arranged between the support platform (3) for mounting the turntable (5) and the bracket (2) for loading the power wheel set (1); The rotary table (5) is provided with a rotation axis, and the rotary table (5) is configured to rotate around the rotation axis under the drive of a pair of power wheel sets (1). The steering wheel damping mechanism includes multiple parallel shock-absorbing units (4). The multiple shock-absorbing units (4) are arranged in a rectangular array between the bracket (2) and the support platform (3). The shock-absorbing units (4) are configured to form a buffer against the support platform (3) in the axial direction of the rotary table (5). The shock-absorbing units (4) are arranged parallel to the rotation axis.

2. The steering wheel damping mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, A guide mechanism (6) is provided between the bracket (2) and the support platform (3), and the bracket (2) is connected to the support platform (3) through the guide mechanism (6).

3. The steering wheel damping mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The shock absorption unit (4) includes a guide post (41) and a compression spring (42). The support platform (3) is provided with a first mounting hole (31), and the bracket (2) is provided with a second mounting hole (21) corresponding to the first mounting hole (31). The guide post (41) is configured to extend from the first mounting hole (31) and be embedded in the second mounting hole (21). The compression spring (42) is sleeved on the guide post (41).

4. The steering wheel damping mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, One end of the guide post (41) is provided with a limiting step (43) that matches the first mounting hole (31). A pressure cap (44) is provided on the outside of the first mounting hole (31). The pressure cap (44) is installed on the support platform (3) by fasteners to form an axial limit on the guide post (41).

5. The steering wheel damping mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, A bushing (45) is provided in the second mounting hole (21), and the guide post (41) is embedded in the bushing (45).

6. The steering wheel damping mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The guiding mechanism (6) includes a connecting plate (61), a first connecting column (62), and a second connecting column (63). The connecting plate (61) is mounted on the side wall of the support platform (3) via the first connecting column (62). A guide groove (64) is provided on the connecting plate (61). The guide groove (64) is arranged parallel to the axial direction of the rotary table (5). The second connecting column (63) is embedded in the guide groove (64).

7. The steering wheel damping mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The guiding mechanism (6) corresponds one-to-one with the shock absorption unit (4).

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