A sleeve assembly and a steering column

Abstract

This invention discloses a sleeve assembly and a steering column for use in a steering column, comprising a sleeve, a cover, an energy-absorbing element, and a connecting element; one side of the sleeve is provided with a mounting portion having a mounting cavity, and the energy-absorbing element is disposed in the mounting cavity; the energy-absorbing element includes a top plate, and the connecting element is provided with a protrusion, the protrusion having a protrusion bevel; the protrusion passes through a cover through hole on the cover and extends into the mounting cavity; in the initial state, the rear end of the top plate is located between the upper and lower ends of the protrusion bevel, and there is a preset gap between the protrusion bevel and the rear end of the top plate. The sleeve assembly and steering column disclosed in this invention allow the damping force generated by the top plate of the energy-absorbing element to remain stable during deformation and collapse, thereby providing stable damping force to achieve a stable energy absorption effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle steering technology, and more particularly to a sleeve assembly for use in a steering column and a steering column. Background Technology

[0002] The vehicle steering system includes a steering column, which comprises a steering shaft, a sleeve, a mounting bracket, and a handle. The steering shaft passes through the sleeve, which is mounted in the mounting bracket. A locking bolt on the handle passes through a guide groove in the mounting bracket, allowing the sleeve to swing and adjust its angle.

[0003] To meet the requirements for impact energy absorption, existing sleeves generally use crumple bars. When an impact occurs, the sleeve moves backward relative to the mounting bracket, and the crumple bar is blocked by the fixing bracket on the mounting bracket or handle, causing the crumple bar to deform and collapse, thereby absorbing energy.

[0004] However, the damping force generated by the crumple bar during crumple is unstable, and the magnitude of the damping force is greatly related to the shape of the crumple bar when it deforms. Its performance still needs to be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a sleeve assembly and steering column that can provide stable damping force when the energy-absorbing element deforms and collapses, so as to achieve a smooth energy absorption effect.

[0006] The present invention provides a sleeve assembly for use in a steering column, including a sleeve, a cover, an energy-absorbing element, and a connecting element;

[0007] The sleeve has a mounting part with a mounting cavity on one side, the energy-absorbing element is disposed in the mounting cavity, and the cover is connected to the sleeve and covers the opening of the mounting cavity;

[0008] The energy-absorbing element includes a deformable and collapsible top plate, and the connecting element is provided with a protrusion that can drive the top plate to deform and collapse. The protrusion has a protrusion slope that can contact the top plate to drive the top plate to deform obliquely downward.

[0009] The top plate has a rear end and a front end arranged opposite to each other, and the protrusion slope gradually extends upward in a direction from the rear end to the front end of the top plate.

[0010] The engaging element is located on the outside of the cover, and the protrusion passes through the cover through-hole on the cover and extends into the mounting cavity;

[0011] The protrusion is at least partially located above the rear end of the top plate, and at least partially located behind the rear end of the top plate;

[0012] In the initial state, the rear end of the top plate is located between the upper and lower ends of the protrusion slope, and there is a preset gap between the protrusion slope and the rear end of the top plate.

[0013] In one alternative embodiment, the engaging element is further provided with a toothed plate for engaging with a locking block in the handle assembly.

[0014] In one of the alternative technical solutions, a guide plate extends backward and downward at the rear end of the top plate;

[0015] In the initial state, the guide plate is located below the ramp of the protrusion.

[0016] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the angle between the inclined surface of the protrusion and the top plate is between 10º and 80º.

[0017] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the energy-absorbing element further includes a first side plate and a second side plate that are spaced apart, and the top plate is connected between the upper ends of the first side plate and the second side plate;

[0018] The first side plate and the second side plate are respectively located on the bottom cavity wall of the mounting cavity;

[0019] The top plate is located below the top cavity wall of the mounting cavity, and there is a preset distance between the top plate and the top cavity wall;

[0020] The cover also has a cover baffle that can prevent the first side plate and the second side plate from moving forward.

[0021] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the front ends of the first side plate and the second side plate respectively contact the cover baffle.

[0022] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the front end of the mounting cavity has a front cavity wall, which contacts the cover baffle, and the front ends of the first side plate and the second side plate respectively contact the front cavity wall.

[0023] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the first side plate is located on the side closer to the sleeve, and the second side plate is located on the side closer to the engaging element;

[0024] The rear ends of the first side plate and the second side plate extend from the rear side of the rear end of the top plate, respectively;

[0025] The rear end of the mounting cavity has a rear cavity wall;

[0026] The rear end of the first side plate contacts the rear cavity wall, and a channel for the protrusion to enter and exit is provided between the rear end of the second side plate and the rear cavity wall.

[0027] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the rear cavity wall is an elastic sheet inclined toward the energy-absorbing element.

[0028] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the top of the rear end of the second side plate has a side plate slope, and a preset gap is left between the side plate slope and the protrusion slope.

[0029] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the front ends of the first side plate and the second side plate are respectively provided with reinforcing vertical plates extending upwards, and the reinforcing vertical plates extend upwards to above the top plate.

[0030] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the top surface of the reinforcing vertical plate contacts the top cavity wall.

[0031] In one of the alternative technical solutions, a weakened through hole is provided on the top plate.

[0032] In one of the alternative technical solutions, a plurality of weakening through holes are provided at intervals on the top plate.

[0033] In one alternative technical solution, a weakening groove is provided on the top plate. In another alternative technical solution, the weakening groove extends along the length direction of the top plate.

[0034] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the weakening grooves are respectively provided on the left and right edges of the top plate.

[0035] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the weakening grooves are respectively provided on the upper and lower surfaces of the top plate.

[0036] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the weakening grooves are continuously arranged on the top plate; or, the weakening grooves are intermittently arranged on the top plate.

[0037] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the depth of the weakening groove is varied.

[0038] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the thickness of the top plate is variable.

[0039] In one of the alternative technical solutions, the top plate includes a front top plate and a rear top plate connected to the front top plate;

[0040] The thickness of the front top plate is greater than or less than the thickness of the rear top plate.

[0041] The present invention also provides a steering column, including a mounting bracket, a handle assembly, and a sleeve assembly as described in any of the foregoing technical solutions;

[0042] The sleeve is installed in the mounting bracket;

[0043] The handle assembly includes a locking block that can be locked and released with the engagement element.

[0044] The above technical solution has the following beneficial effects:

[0045] The sleeve assembly and steering column provided by this invention, during installation, have the engaging element locked by a locking block in the handle assembly. In the event of a vehicle collision, the sleeve can move rearward relative to the engaging element, and the inclined surface of the protrusion presses against the top plate of the energy-absorbing element, causing the top plate to be sheared and deformed rearward and downward, thereby absorbing energy. Because the deformation pattern of the top plate remains consistent, the damping force generated during the deformation and collapse process remains stable, thus providing a stable damping force to achieve a smooth energy absorption effect. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The disclosure of this invention will become more readily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this invention. In the drawings:

[0047] Figure 1 A perspective view of a sleeve assembly provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Exploded view of the sleeve assembly shown;

[0049] Figure 3 Exploded view of the mounting section, energy-absorbing element, cover, and connecting element;

[0050] Figure 4 Exploded view of the mounting section, energy-absorbing element, and connecting element;

[0051] Figure 5 A stereoscopic view of the cover from a first-person perspective;

[0052] Figure 6 A stereoscopic view of the cover from a second perspective;

[0053] Figure 7 This is a stereoscopic view of the energy-absorbing element from a third-person perspective.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a stereoscopic view of the energy-absorbing element from a fourth-person perspective.

[0055] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing a weakening through-hole provided on the top plate of the energy-absorbing element;

[0056] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing a weakening groove on the top plate of the energy-absorbing element;

[0057] Figure 11 A schematic diagram showing that the front section of the top plate of the energy-absorbing element is thicker than the rear section.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the sleeve assembly viewed from the axial direction of the sleeve.

[0059] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A cross-sectional view along direction AA;

[0060] Figure 14 for Figure 13 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0061] Figure 15 A perspective view of a steering column provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the locking block and engagement element in the handle assembly when locked together. Detailed Implementation

[0063] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical components are indicated by the same reference numerals. It should be noted that the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "up," and "down" used in the following description refer to directions in the accompanying drawings, while the terms "inner" and "outer" refer to directions toward or away from the geometric center of a specific component, respectively.

[0064] like Figure 1-7 and Figure 12-14 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a sleeve assembly for use in a steering column, including a sleeve 1, a cover 3, an energy-absorbing element 5, and a connecting element 4.

[0065] A mounting part 2 with a mounting cavity 21 is provided on one side of the sleeve 1. The energy-absorbing element 5 is disposed in the mounting cavity 21. The cover 3 is connected to the sleeve 1 and covers the opening of the mounting cavity 21.

[0066] The energy-absorbing element 5 includes a deformable and collapsible top plate 51. The engaging element 4 is provided with a protrusion 41 that can drive the top plate 51 to deform and collapse. The protrusion 41 has a protrusion ramp 411 that can contact the top plate 51 and thereby drive the top plate 51 to deform obliquely downward.

[0067] The top plate 51 has a top plate rear end 511 and a top plate front end 512 arranged opposite to each other, and the protrusion ramp 411 gradually extends upward along the direction from the top plate rear end 511 to the top plate front end 512.

[0068] The engaging element 4 is located on the outside of the cover 3, and the protrusion 41 passes through the cover through hole 31 on the cover 3 and extends into the mounting cavity 21.

[0069] The protrusion 41 is at least partially located above the rear end 511 of the top plate, and at least partially located behind the rear end 511 of the top plate.

[0070] In the initial state, the rear end 511 of the top plate is located between the upper and lower ends of the protrusion inclined surface 411, and there is a preset gap between the protrusion inclined surface 411 and the rear end 511 of the top plate.

[0071] The sleeve assembly provided by this invention is mainly used in the steering column of vehicles.

[0072] In this invention, "front" refers to the direction in which the steering column is installed at the rear of the vehicle, facing the steering wheel. Figure 13 (As shown on the right), "rear" refers to the direction away from the steering wheel. Figure 13 (Left side shown in the image).

[0073] The sleeve assembly provided in this embodiment includes a sleeve 1, a mounting part 2, a cover 3, a connecting element 4, and an energy-absorbing element 5.

[0074] Sleeve 1 is used for installation Figure 14 The steering shaft 8 is shown. The sleeve 1 in the steering column is installed... Figure 15 The sleeve 1 is secured between the two bracket side plates 61 of the mounting bracket 6 shown, via a cam mechanism 73 in the handle assembly 7 and a locking bolt 72. The sleeve 1 can be loosened or tightened by turning the handle 71. In the event of a vehicle collision, if the force on the sleeve 1 exceeds its preload, the sleeve 1 will... Figure 13 As shown in the diagram, the left-side sliding mechanism actually involves the sleeve 1 sliding forward and downward. The steering shaft 8 drives the steering wheel to move forward and downward, thus protecting the driver.

[0075] The mounting part 2 is mounted on one side of the sleeve 1. The mounting part 2 has a mounting cavity 21, and the opening of the mounting cavity 21 faces the side of the engaging element 4.

[0076] The energy-absorbing element 5 is a deformable, collapsible metal component capable of absorbing energy, located within the mounting cavity 21. The front end of the energy-absorbing element 5 contacts the front wall 214 of the mounting cavity 21, and its rear end contacts the rear wall 213 of the mounting cavity 21. The bottom of the energy-absorbing element 5 is located on the bottom wall 211 of the mounting cavity 21, and the top plate 51 of the energy-absorbing element 5 is located below the top wall 212 of the mounting cavity 21, but does not contact the top wall 212. The energy-absorbing element 5 has a cavity located below the top plate 51, facilitating the deformation and collapse of the top plate 51 to absorb energy.

[0077] The cover 3 has a cover protrusion 32, and the sleeve 1 has a sleeve groove 11. The cover protrusion 32 is connected in the sleeve groove 11. The cover 3 is fixedly installed on the sleeve 1, and the cover 3 covers the opening of the mounting cavity 21, thereby encapsulating the energy-absorbing element 5 in the mounting cavity 21.

[0078] The cover 3 has a cover through hole 31 for inserting the protrusion 41 on the engagement element 4 into the mounting cavity 21.

[0079] The engaging element 4 is located on the outside of the cover 3, and its inner surface has a protrusion 41. The engaging element 4 is used to engage with... Figure 15-16 The locking block 75 in the handle assembly 7 shown engages to lock or release. When no adjustment of the steering column is required, the handle 71 is locked, and the engaging element 4 is locked by the locking block 75, which keeps it fixed to the mounting bracket 6 and the handle assembly 7. When the steering column needs adjustment, the handle 71 is released, the engaging element 4 is released from the locking block 75, and the engaging element 4, together with the sleeve 1 and the steering shaft 8, moves relative to the mounting bracket 6 and the handle assembly 7.

[0080] When the coupling element 4 collapses due to an external impact (car collision), it is locked by the locking block 75, and the sleeve 1 moves. At this time, the sleeve 1, together with the mounting part 2, the cover 3 and the energy-absorbing element 5, will move backward relative to the coupling element 4 (towards). Figure 13 (Slide on the left as shown).

[0081] The protrusion 41 extends into the mounting cavity 21 from the cover through hole 31, and can contact the top plate 51 to drive the top plate 51 to deform obliquely downward.

[0082] The bump 41 has a bump ramp 411 that gradually slopes upward in a direction from the rear end 511 of the top plate to the front end 512 of the top plate (from back to front).

[0083] The protrusion 41 is located in the mounting cavity 21, at least partially above the rear end 511 of the top plate and at least partially behind the rear end 511 of the top plate.

[0084] In the initial state, in the vertical direction, the rear end 511 of the top plate is located between the upper and lower ends of the protrusion inclined surface 411, thereby ensuring that when the top plate 51 moves backward with the sleeve 1, it can contact the protrusion inclined surface 411 and be deformed by the protrusion inclined surface 411.

[0085] In the initial state, there is a preset gap between the protrusion inclined surface 411 and the rear end of the top plate 511, and the protrusion inclined surface 411 does not contact the rear end of the top plate 511, so it will not affect the normal use of the sleeve 1. In the collapsing state, the protrusion inclined surface 411 contacts the top plate 51 and presses down on the top plate 51, causing the top plate 51 to deform backward and downward or even tear, thereby achieving collapsing energy absorption.

[0086] Specifically, when a vehicle collides, the sleeve 1 moves backward, and the mounting part 2 moves backward along with the sleeve 1. At the same time, it drives the energy-absorbing element 5 to move backward as a whole. The top plate 51 will contact the protrusion inclined surface 411, and the protrusion inclined surface 411 will press down on the top plate 51, causing the top plate 51 to deform backward and downward, thereby achieving collapse and energy absorption.

[0087] Since the deformation mode of the top plate 51 remains consistent, the damping force generated during the deformation and collapse of the top plate 51 remains stable, thus providing a stable damping force to achieve a stable energy absorption effect.

[0088] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1-2 and Figure 15-16 As shown, the engaging element 4 is also provided with a toothed plate 42 for engaging with the locking block 75 in the handle assembly 7.

[0089] The outer surface of the engaging element 4 has a toothed plate 42 with multiple teeth. The locking block 75 in the handle assembly 7 also has multiple teeth.

[0090] When the handle 71 is locked, the teeth on the toothed plate 42 engage with the teeth on the locking block 75 to achieve locking.

[0091] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2-4 , Figure 7-8 and Figure 13-14 As shown, a guide plate 52 extends backward and downward on the rear end 511 of the top plate.

[0092] In the initial state, the guide plate 52 is located below the bump ramp 411.

[0093] The guide plate 52 slopes backward and downward from the rear end 511 of the top plate and is integrally formed with the top plate 51. In the initial state, the guide plate 52 is located below the protrusion inclined surface 411, with a certain gap between the protrusion inclined surface 411 and the guide plate 52, and the protrusion inclined surface 411 does not contact the guide plate 52. When the energy-absorbing element 5 is pushed to move backward, the guide plate 52 contacts the protrusion inclined surface 411. Due to its backward and downward slope, it can move and deform quickly along the protrusion inclined surface 411, which helps guide the top plate 51 to deform and collapse backward and downward.

[0094] Preferably, the guide plate 52 is parallel to the protrusion inclined surface 411. When the energy-absorbing element 5 is pushed to move backward, the guide plate 52 and the protrusion inclined surface 411 are in contact, which can better guide the top plate 51 to deform and collapse backward and downward.

[0095] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3-4 and Figure 14 As shown, the included angle between the protrusion inclined surface 411 and the top plate 51 is between 10º and 80º.

[0096] In this embodiment, the angle between the inclined surface 411 of the protrusion and the direction of movement of the energy-absorbing element 5 is between 10º and 80º. By configuring different angles, the collapsing force can be adjusted.

[0097] If it is necessary to adjust the magnitude of the collapsing force, damping force, or suction capacity of the top plate 51, this can be achieved by adjusting the inclination angle of the protrusion inclined surface 411. If the inclination angle of the protrusion inclined surface 411 is large, the deformation of the top plate 51 will be large, and the corresponding collapsing force, damping force, or suction capacity will be large. If the inclination angle of the protrusion inclined surface 411 is small, the deformation of the top plate 51 will be small, and the corresponding collapsing force, damping force, or suction capacity will be small.

[0098] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2-8 and Figure 13-14 As shown, the energy-absorbing element 5 also includes a first side plate 53 and a second side plate 54 that are spaced apart, and a top plate 51 is connected between the upper ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54.

[0099] The first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are respectively located on the bottom cavity wall 211 of the mounting cavity 21.

[0100] The top plate 51 is located below the top cavity wall 212 of the mounting cavity 21, and there is a preset distance between the top plate 51 and the top cavity wall 212.

[0101] The cover 3 also has a cover baffle 33 that can prevent the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 from moving forward.

[0102] In this embodiment, the energy-absorbing element 5 includes a top plate 51, a first side plate 53, and a second side plate 54. The first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are arranged at intervals, preferably parallel to each other. The top plate 51, the first side plate 53, and the second side plate 54 form a U-shaped structure, and the top plate 51 connects the upper ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54. The first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 support the top plate 51, making the top plate 51 suspended, and a cavity is formed below the top plate 51, which is conducive to being squeezed and deformed by the protrusion 41.

[0103] During installation, the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are respectively located on the bottom cavity wall 211 of the mounting cavity 21 to support the top plate 51. The top plate 51 is located below the top cavity wall 212 of the mounting cavity 21, and there is a preset distance between the top plate 51 and the top cavity wall 212 to provide installation space for the protrusion 41.

[0104] The cover 3 also includes a cover baffle 33, which extends toward the mounting portion 2 to prevent the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 from moving forward. The front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 may directly or indirectly contact the cover baffle 33.

[0105] As the sleeve 1 moves backward, the cover baffle 33 pushes the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54, thereby causing the top plate 51 to move backward.

[0106] In one embodiment, the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 respectively contact the cover baffle 33.

[0107] In this embodiment, the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are in direct contact with the cover baffle 33, and the cover baffle 33 directly acts on the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54.

[0108] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 , Figure 6-8 As shown, the front end of the mounting cavity 21 has a front cavity wall 214. The front cavity wall 214 contacts the cover baffle 33. The front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 respectively contact the front cavity wall 214.

[0109] In this embodiment, the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are in indirect contact with the cover baffle 33. The front cavity wall 214 is in direct contact with the cover baffle 33, and the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are in direct contact with the front cavity wall 214. The cover baffle 33 acts on the front cavity wall 214, and the larger front cavity wall 214 acts on the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54, which helps to improve the stress stability of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54.

[0110] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2-4 , Figure 7 and Figure 13-14 As shown, the first side plate 53 is located on the side closer to the sleeve 1, and the second side plate 54 is located on the side closer to the engaging element 4.

[0111] The rear ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 extend from the rear end of the top plate 511, respectively.

[0112] The rear end of the mounting cavity 21 has a rear cavity wall 213.

[0113] The rear end of the first side plate 53 contacts the rear cavity wall 213, and a channel for the protrusion 41 to enter and exit is left between the rear end of the second side plate 54 and the rear cavity wall 213.

[0114] In this embodiment, the first side plate 53 is longer than the second side plate 54, and the rear end of the first side plate 53 contacts the rear cavity wall 213 of the mounting cavity 21. The front end and the rear end of the energy-absorbing element 5 can both contact the cavity wall of the mounting cavity 21, so that the energy-absorbing element 5 will move synchronously with the movement of the mounting part 2.

[0115] The rear end of the second side plate 54 does not contact the rear cavity wall 213. A channel is left between the rear end of the second side plate 54 and the rear cavity wall 213 for the protrusion 41 to enter and exit between the second side plate 54 and the first side plate 53, which facilitates the installation of the protrusion 41.

[0116] In one embodiment, the rear cavity wall 213 is an elastic sheet inclined toward the energy-absorbing element 5, allowing the rear cavity wall 213 to fit tightly against the first side plate 53, automatically eliminating the gap between the rear cavity wall 213 and the first side plate 53. In one embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, the top of the rear end of the second side plate 54 has a side plate slope 541, and a preset gap is left between the side plate slope 541 and the protrusion slope 411 to provide clearance when installing the protrusion 41. During the assembly of the protrusion 41, the protrusion slope 411 can pass smoothly through the side plate slope 541.

[0117] In one embodiment, such as Figure 7 As shown, the side plate inclined surface 541 is parallel to the protrusion inclined surface 411. As long as the protrusion 41 is pushed into the mounting cavity 21 at a predetermined height, it can be ensured that the protrusion inclined surface 411 will not interfere with the side plate inclined surface 541, which facilitates the entry, exit and installation of the protrusion 41.

[0118] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2-4 , Figure 7 and Figure 13-14 As shown, the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are respectively provided with reinforcing vertical plates 55 extending upwards, and the reinforcing vertical plates 55 extend upwards to above the top plate 51.

[0119] In this embodiment, the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are respectively integrally formed with reinforcing vertical plates 55, which extend upward and are higher than the top plate 51.

[0120] If the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are in contact with the front cavity wall 214, then the front surface of the reinforcing vertical plate 55 is also in contact with the front cavity wall 214, which increases the contact part or contact area with the front cavity wall 214, making it easier for the front cavity wall 214 to push the energy-absorbing element 5 to move.

[0121] If the front ends of the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 are in contact with the cover baffle 33, the front surface of the reinforcing vertical plate 55 will not be in contact with the front cavity wall 214, but the height of the cover baffle 33 can be increased to increase the contact area between the cover baffle 33 and the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54, thereby increasing the force-bearing area of ​​the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54.

[0122] In one embodiment, such as Figure 14As shown, the top surface of the reinforced vertical plate 55 contacts the top cavity wall 212, which can prevent the energy-absorbing element 5 from shaking or swaying up and down in the mounting cavity 21, thus improving the installation stability of the energy-absorbing element 5.

[0123] In one embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, a weakening through hole 513 is provided on the top plate 51.

[0124] In this embodiment, the top plate 51 has a through hole, which weakens the strength of the top plate 51 and facilitates the deformation and collapse of the top plate 51. Therefore, it is called the weakening through hole 513.

[0125] By setting a weakening through hole 513 on the top plate 51, the structural strength of the top plate 51 can be reduced. When pressed down by the protrusion inclined surface 411, the top plate 51 is more likely to deform, thus achieving collapse and energy absorption.

[0126] The shape of the weakening through hole 513 is not fixed; it can be circular, elliptical, rounded rectangle, rounded square, etc. The hole size can be freely adjusted to regulate the collapsing force.

[0127] In one embodiment, such as Figure 9 As shown, multiple weakening through holes 513 are provided at intervals on the top plate 51 to further reduce the structural strength of the top plate 51 and improve the deformation performance of the top plate 51.

[0128] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, a weakening groove 514 is provided on the top plate 51.

[0129] In this embodiment, the top plate 51 has a groove, which weakens the strength of the top plate 51 and facilitates the deformation and collapse of the top plate 51. Therefore, it is called the weakening groove 514.

[0130] By providing a weakening groove 514 on the top plate 51, the structural strength of the top plate 51 can be reduced. When pressed down by the protrusion inclined surface 411, the top plate 51 is more likely to deform, thus achieving collapse and energy absorption.

[0131] The cross-section of the weakening groove 514 can be U-shaped or V-shaped.

[0132] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the weakening groove 514 extends along the length direction of the top plate 51.

[0133] In this embodiment, the groove extends along the length of the top plate 51, that is, along the front-back direction of the top plate 51, which is consistent with the movement direction of the top plate 51, and facilitates the gradual collapse and deformation of the top plate 51 along the length direction.

[0134] The shape of the weakening groove 514 is not fixed; it can be a V-shaped groove, a U-shaped groove, a square groove, etc.

[0135] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, weakening grooves 514 are provided on the left and right sides of the top plate 51.

[0136] In this embodiment, weakening grooves 514 are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the top plate 51. The weakening grooves 514 are located at the connection between the top plate 51 and the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54. When pressed down by the protrusion inclined surface 411, the top plate 51 is more likely to separate from the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 53, thus making it easier to deform and achieve collapse and energy absorption.

[0137] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the top and bottom surfaces of the top plate 51 are respectively provided with weakening grooves 514, which have a better weakening effect on the top plate 51, making the top plate 51 more likely to deform, collapse and absorb energy.

[0138] In one embodiment, the weakening grooves 514 are continuously arranged on the top plate 51. Alternatively, the weakening grooves 514 are intermittently arranged on the top plate 51.

[0139] As needed, a continuous weakening groove 514 can be provided on the top plate 51, or multiple weakening grooves 514 can be provided at intervals to meet different working conditions.

[0140] In one embodiment, the depth of the weakening groove 514 is variable. The bottom of the weakening groove 514 can be gradually inclined, wavy, or have other uneven shapes, so that the depth of the weakening groove 514 varies, thereby changing the structural strength of the top plate 51 at various groove depths to meet the collapse requirements.

[0141] Preferably, weakening grooves 514 are provided on both the upper and lower sides of the connection between the top plate 51 and the first side plate 53, and on both the upper and lower sides of the connection between the top plate 51 and the second side plate 54, so that the top plate 51 can be quickly separated from the first side plate 53 and the second side plate 54 when it is pressed down, thereby facilitating the deformation of the top plate 51.

[0142] In one embodiment, the thickness of the top plate 51 is variable. The thicker the plate, the greater the collapsing force generated when it is deformed by the protrusion 41. By changing the thickness of the top plate 51, the structural strength of the top plate 51 at various points is changed to meet the collapsing requirements.

[0143] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11As shown, the top plate 51 includes a front top plate 515 and a rear top plate 516 connected to the front top plate 515. The thickness of the front top plate 515 is greater than or less than the thickness of the rear top plate 516.

[0144] In this embodiment, by dividing the top plate 51 into a front top plate 515 and a rear top plate 516 with different thicknesses, the needs of collapse force at different stages can be met.

[0145] The front top plate 515 and the rear top plate 516 are integrally formed.

[0146] Generally, the required collapse force (damping force or suction capacity) is small at the beginning stage and large at the end of the collapse.

[0147] If necessary, the front top plate 515 can be set to be thicker than the rear top plate 516.

[0148] The rear top plate 516 deforms at the beginning of the collapse, and the front top plate 515 deforms at the end of the collapse. The above requirements can be met by using front top plates 515 and rear top plates 516 with different thicknesses.

[0149] The lengths of the front top plate 515 and the rear top plate 516 can be set according to specific requirements.

[0150] In summary, the purpose of providing a weakening through hole 513 on the top plate 51, a weakening groove 514 at the connection between the top plate 51 and the first side plate 53 and / or the second side plate 54, and a front top plate 515 and a rear top plate 516 of different thicknesses and lengths on the top plate 51 is to provide a controllable, continuous and stable collapse effect for a certain period of time.

[0151] like Figure 15-16 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a steering column including a mounting bracket 6, a handle assembly 7, and a sleeve assembly described in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0152] Sleeve 1 is located in mounting bracket 6.

[0153] The handle assembly 7 includes a locking block 75, which can be locked and released with the engagement element 4.

[0154] The steering column provided in this embodiment includes a mounting bracket 6, a handle assembly 7, a steering shaft 8, and a sleeve assembly.

[0155] For details regarding the structure, construction, and working principle of the sleeve assembly, please refer to the previous description of the sleeve assembly; it will not be repeated here.

[0156] The mounting bracket 6 includes two opposing bracket side plates 61, each with an arc-shaped adjustment through hole 611.

[0157] The handle assembly 7 includes a handle 71, a locking bolt 72, a cam mechanism 73, a connecting plate 74, a locking block 75, and a pin 76.

[0158] The locking bolt 72 is connected to the handle 71. A cam mechanism 73 is mounted on the locking bolt 72, and the bracket side plate 61 has a corresponding cam for the cam mechanism 73. One end of the connecting plate 74 is connected to the locking bolt 72, and the other end extends downwards. A pin 76 is mounted on the other end of the connecting plate 74. A locking block 75 is mounted on the pin 76 and is used to engage with the engaging element 4; both the locking block 75 and the engaging element 4 are provided with teeth.

[0159] During assembly, the steering shaft 8 passes through the sleeve 1, which is fitted between the two bracket side plates 61. The locking bolt 72 passes through the adjustment through hole 611 on the bracket side plate 61, and the sleeve 1 is supported by the locking bolt 72. The locking block 75 is located inside the bracket side plate 61 and faces the engaging element 4.

[0160] When the handle 71 is turned to lock, the cam mechanism 73 presses against the cam on the side plate 61 of the bracket, and the sleeve 1 is locked between the two side plates 61 of the bracket. At the same time, the teeth on the locking block 75 engage with the teeth 42 on the engaging element 4, fixing the engaging element 4.

[0161] When the rotating handle 71 is released, the cam mechanism 73 is released from the bracket side plate 61, the locking block 75 is released from the engaging element 4, and the sleeve 1 is movable relative to the two bracket side plates 61. Accordingly, the steering column is thus adjusted in height / length.

[0162] For details regarding the structure and fit of the handle assembly 7 and the mounting bracket 6, please refer to the existing technology; they will not be described in detail here.

[0163] This invention provides a steering column in which the engaging element 4 is locked by the locking block 75 during installation. In the event of a vehicle collision, the sleeve 1 can move rearward relative to the engaging element 4, and the inclined surface 411 of the protrusion 41 presses against the top plate 51 of the energy-absorbing element 5, causing the top plate 51 to be sheared and deformed rearward and downward, thereby absorbing energy. Because the deformation pattern of the top plate 51 remains consistent, the damping force generated during the deformation and collapse of the top plate 51 remains stable, thus providing a stable damping force to achieve a smooth energy absorption effect.

[0164] As needed, the above technical solutions can be combined to achieve the best technical effect.

[0165] The above description is merely the principle and preferred embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several other modifications can be made based on the principle of the present invention, and these modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sleeve assembly for use in a steering column, characterized in that, It includes a sleeve (1), a cover (3), an energy-absorbing element (5), and a connecting element (4); The sleeve (1) has a mounting part (2) with a mounting cavity (21) on one side, the energy-absorbing element (5) is disposed in the mounting cavity (21), and the cover (3) is connected to the sleeve (1) and covers the opening of the mounting cavity (21); The energy-absorbing element (5) includes a deformable and collapsible top plate (51), and the connecting element (4) is provided with a protrusion (41) that can drive the top plate (51) to deform and collapse. The protrusion (41) has a protrusion slope (411) that can contact the top plate (51) and drive the top plate (51) to deform obliquely downward. The top plate (51) has a top plate rear end (511) and a top plate front end (512) arranged opposite to each other, and the protrusion inclined surface (411) gradually extends upward along the direction from the top plate rear end (511) to the top plate front end (512). The engaging element (4) is located on the outside of the cover (3), and the protrusion (41) passes through the cover through hole (31) on the cover (3) and extends into the mounting cavity (21); The protrusion (41) is at least partially located above the rear end (511) of the top plate, and the protrusion (41) is at least partially located behind the rear end (511) of the top plate; In the initial state, the rear end (511) of the top plate is located between the upper and lower ends of the protrusion inclined surface (411), and there is a preset gap between the protrusion inclined surface (411) and the rear end (511) of the top plate.

2. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, The engagement element (4) is also provided with a toothed plate (42) for engaging with the locking block (75) in the handle assembly (7).

3. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, A guide plate (52) extends backward and downward at the rear end (511) of the top plate. In the initial state, the guide plate (52) is located below the protrusion ramp (411).

4. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 2, characterized in that, The angle between the inclined surface of the protrusion (411) and the top plate (51) is between 10º and 80º.

5. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing element (5) also includes a first side plate (53) and a second side plate (54) spaced apart, and the top plate (51) is connected between the upper ends of the first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54); The first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54) are respectively located on the bottom cavity wall (211) of the mounting cavity (21); The top plate (51) is located below the top cavity wall (212) of the mounting cavity (21), and there is a preset distance between the top plate (51) and the top cavity wall (212); The cover (3) also has a cover baffle (33) that can prevent the first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54) from moving forward.

6. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 5, characterized in that, The front ends of the first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54) respectively contact the cover baffle (33).

7. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 5, characterized in that, The front end of the mounting cavity (21) has a front cavity wall (214), which contacts the cover baffle (33), and the front ends of the first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54) respectively contact the front cavity wall (214).

8. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first side plate (53) is located on the side closer to the sleeve (1), and the second side plate (54) is located on the side closer to the engaging element (4); The rear ends of the first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54) extend from the rear side of the rear end (511) of the top plate, respectively; The rear end of the mounting cavity (21) has a rear cavity wall (213). The rear end of the first side plate (53) contacts the rear cavity wall (213), and a channel for the protrusion (41) to enter and exit is left between the rear end of the second side plate (54) and the rear cavity wall (213).

9. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 8, characterized in that, The rear cavity wall (213) is an elastic sheet that is inclined toward the energy-absorbing element (5).

10. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second side plate (54) has a side plate slope (541) at the top of its rear end, and a preset gap is left between the side plate slope (541) and the protrusion slope (411).

11. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 5, characterized in that, The front ends of the first side plate (53) and the second side plate (54) are respectively provided with reinforcing vertical plates (55), which extend upward to the top plate (51).

12. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 11, characterized in that, The top surface of the reinforcing vertical plate (55) is in contact with the top cavity wall (212).

13. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The top plate (51) is provided with a weakening through hole (513).

14. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 13, characterized in that, The top plate (51) is provided with a plurality of weakening through holes (513) spaced apart.

15. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The top plate (51) is provided with a weakening groove (514).

16. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 15, characterized in that, The weakening groove (514) extends along the length direction of the top plate (51).

17. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 15, characterized in that, The weakening grooves (514) are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the top plate (51).

18. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 15, characterized in that, The weakening grooves (514) are respectively provided on the upper and lower surfaces of the top plate (51).

19. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 15, characterized in that, The weakening groove (514) is continuously arranged on the top plate (51); Alternatively, the weakening grooves (514) may be intermittently arranged on the top plate (51).

20. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to claim 15, characterized in that, The depth of the weakening groove (514) is variable.

21. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The thickness of the top plate (51) is variable.

22. The sleeve assembly for a steering column according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The top plate (51) includes a front top plate (515) and a rear top plate (516) connected to the front top plate (515). The thickness of the front top plate (515) is greater than or less than the thickness of the rear top plate (516).

23. A steering column, characterized in that, Includes a mounting bracket (6), a handle assembly (7), and a sleeve assembly as described in any one of claims 1-22; The sleeve (1) is installed in the mounting bracket (6); The handle assembly (7) includes a locking block (75) that can be locked and released with the engagement element (4).

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