A steering control device and a steering wheel adjustment method

Abstract

This invention provides a steering control device and a steering wheel adjustment method, relating to the field of steering wheel adjustment. The solution includes a fixed bracket, an adjusting arm inside the fixed bracket, and a linear drive assembly on the fixed bracket. The linear drive assembly includes a first drive arm, which is rotatably connected to the adjusting arm via a first pin. The first pin can move along a linear guide groove on the fixed bracket, the length direction of which is consistent with the length direction of the upper column. An clearance groove is provided on the upper part of the adjusting arm, the length direction of which is consistent with the length direction of the upper column. A second pin is relatively movably disposed within the clearance groove. The fixed bracket also includes a swing drive assembly, which includes a second drive arm connected to the second pin. The second pin can move along an arc-shaped guide groove on the fixed bracket, the center of which is the connection point between the first drive arm and the adjusting arm. This invention enables time-saving and labor-saving adjustment of the steering wheel position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of steering wheel adjustment, and more particularly to a steering control device and a steering wheel adjustment method. Background Technology

[0002] The steering wheel is the component of the steering control device that comes into direct contact with the operator. The position of the steering wheel has a significant impact on the operator's driving. A properly adjusted steering wheel position allows the operator to have a better field of vision and a more comfortable driving posture, reducing fatigue. It also allows the operator to better control the steering wheel and improve maneuverability. Furthermore, it ensures that the distance between the operator and the airbag is appropriate, thus enhancing safety.

[0003] The prior art discloses a car steering wheel position adjustment device, including a steering wheel, a transmission rod, and a suspension device. The steering wheel is connected to the transmission rod, and a suspension device is provided in the middle of the transmission rod. The suspension device includes a suspension block, a suspension shaft, and a suspension point on the vehicle body. A strip groove is fixed on the suspension block, and the suspension block is passed through the strip groove via the suspension shaft and connected to the shaft hole on the suspension point. During adjustment, first rotate the locking handle clockwise about 1 / 4 turn to loosen the locking device, then push or pull the steering wheel up or down to rotate the steering wheel around the lower connection point to the desired position. Then rotate the locking handle counterclockwise until the locking handle and the locking limit block on the suspension point come into contact, thus tightening the suspension block on the suspension point.

[0004] While the above technical solutions can adjust the position of the steering wheel, the operation steps are cumbersome, affecting the adjustment efficiency. Furthermore, the adjustment process relies entirely on manual force applied by the operator, which is quite laborious. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the time-consuming and laborious technical problem of steering wheel adjustment in the prior art, the present invention provides a steering control device and a steering wheel adjustment method that can adjust the steering wheel position in a time-saving and labor-saving manner.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a steering control device, including a fixed bracket, an adjusting arm disposed at the lower part of the upper column, a linear drive assembly disposed on the fixed bracket, the linear drive assembly including a first drive arm, the first drive arm and the adjusting arm being rotatably connected by a first pin, the first pin being movable along a linear guide groove on the fixed bracket, the length direction of the linear guide groove being consistent with the length direction of the upper column, a clearance groove disposed at the upper part of the adjusting arm, the length direction of the clearance groove being consistent with the length direction of the upper column, a second pin being relatively movably disposed within the clearance groove, and a swing drive assembly disposed on the fixed bracket, the swing drive assembly including a second drive arm, the second drive arm being connected to the second pin, the second pin being movable along an arc-shaped guide groove on the fixed bracket, the center of the arc-shaped guide groove being the connection point of the first drive arm and the adjusting arm. The position of the upper column, i.e. the steering wheel, is electrically adjusted by the cooperation of the linear drive component and the swing drive component, which saves time and effort. At the same time, the swing drive component does not move with the linear movement of the adjustment arm by setting a clearance groove on the upper part of the adjustment arm, which reduces the load on the linear drive component.

[0007] Furthermore, the linear drive assembly also includes a linear drive motor and a mounting base connected to each other. The mounting base is connected to the fixed bracket, and the linear drive motor includes a lead screw, which is connected to the drive arm.

[0008] Furthermore, the extension and retraction direction of the lead screw is consistent with the length direction of the upper tube column. By aligning the extension and retraction direction of the lead screw with the length direction of the upper tube column, jamming during the linear movement of the adjusting arm can be avoided.

[0009] Furthermore, the swing drive assembly also includes a swing drive motor and a second mounting base connected to each other. The second mounting base is connected to the fixed bracket and is a hinge support. The swing drive motor includes a second lead screw, which is connected to the second drive arm. The hinge support of the second mounting base ensures the rotational connection between the swing drive motor and the fixed bracket, guaranteeing smooth swinging of the adjusting arm.

[0010] Furthermore, the second lead screw is connected to the second drive arm by at least two bolts. Using at least two bolts prevents relative rotation between the second lead screw and the second drive arm, thus avoiding wear between the second pin and the arc-shaped guide groove.

[0011] Furthermore, the adjusting arm includes an adjusting part two and an adjusting part one connected vertically in sequence. The adjusting part two is provided with the clearance groove, and the pin two is movably disposed in the clearance groove. The adjusting part one is rotatably provided with the pin one.

[0012] Furthermore, the second adjustment part and the upper tube column are an integrated structure, while the first adjustment part is an arc-shaped structure that bends away from the upper tube column. The integrated structure and arc-shaped structure enhance the strength of the adjustment arm, preventing deformation and breakage that could cause movement jamming.

[0013] Furthermore, the adjustment part is also provided with reinforcing ribs.

[0014] Furthermore, both the linear drive motor and the oscillating drive motor are equipped with torque sensors. These torque sensors allow the respective motors to detect when a component has reached its termination position in the direction of movement, preventing damage from continuous operation.

[0015] Secondly, this invention provides a steering wheel adjustment method. Using the aforementioned steering control device, a linear drive motor and a sway drive motor work simultaneously to move the steering wheel. When the steering wheel reaches the appropriate position, both the linear drive motor and the sway drive motor stop working simultaneously, locking the steering wheel. By simultaneously driving the steering wheel in both the up / down and forward / backward directions, the accuracy of the steering wheel position adjustment can be ensured, while also improving adjustment efficiency.

[0016] As can be seen from the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0017] This invention provides a steering control device and a steering wheel adjustment method. The device achieves electric adjustment of the upper column (steering wheel) position through the cooperation of a linear drive assembly and a swing drive assembly, saving time and effort. Simultaneously, a clearance groove on the upper part of the adjusting arm prevents the swing drive assembly from moving with the linear movement of the adjusting arm, reducing the load on the linear drive assembly. By aligning the extension direction of the lead screw with the length direction of the upper column, jamming during linear movement of the adjusting arm is avoided. A second mounting base acts as a hinge support, ensuring a rotatable connection between the swing drive motor and the fixed bracket, guaranteeing smooth swinging of the adjusting arm. At least two bolts prevent relative rotation between the lead screw and the driving arm, thus preventing wear on the pin and the arc-shaped guide groove. An integrated structure and an arc-shaped structure enhance the strength of the adjusting arm, preventing deformation and breakage that could cause movement jamming. A torque sensor allows the corresponding motor to detect when a component has reached its termination position in the direction of movement, preventing continuous operation and potential damage. Simultaneous driving of the steering wheel in both vertical and horizontal directions ensures accurate steering wheel position adjustment and improves adjustment efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the steering wheel and a specific embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of a specific embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0021] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of a specific embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the upper tube column and adjusting arm in a specific embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] In the diagram, 1. Upper tube column; 2. Fixed bracket; 3. Pin 1; 4. Linear guide groove; 5. Linear drive motor; 6. Swing drive motor; 7. Arc-shaped guide groove; 8. Drive arm 2; 9. Pin 2; 10. Clearance groove; 11. Adjustment part 1; 12. Drive arm 1; 13. Lead screw 2; 14. Mounting seat 1; 15. Lead screw 1. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, features, and advantages of this invention more apparent and understandable, the technical solutions of this invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the specific embodiments. Obviously, the embodiments described below are only some embodiments of this invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this patent, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this patent. Specific Implementation Method 1

[0026] like Figures 1 to 3As shown in the figure, this specific embodiment provides a steering control device, including a fixed bracket 2, an upper column 1 is provided inside the fixed bracket 2, an adjusting arm is provided at the lower part of the upper column 1, a linear drive assembly is provided on the fixed bracket 2, the linear drive assembly includes a drive arm 12, the drive arm 12 and the adjusting arm are rotatably connected by a pin 3, the pin 3 can move along a linear guide groove 4 on the fixed bracket 2, the length direction of the linear guide groove 4 is consistent with the length direction of the upper column 1, an avoidance groove 10 is provided at the upper part of the adjusting arm, the length direction of the avoidance groove 10 is consistent with the length direction of the upper column 1, a pin 9 is relatively movable in the avoidance groove 10, and a swing drive assembly is also provided on the fixed bracket 2, the swing drive assembly includes a drive arm 8, the drive arm 8 is connected to the pin 9, the pin 9 can move along an arc-shaped guide groove 7 on the fixed bracket 2, the center of the arc-shaped guide groove 7 is the connection point between the drive arm 12 and the adjusting arm. The position of the upper column 1, i.e. the steering wheel, is electrically adjusted by the cooperation of the linear drive component and the swing drive component, which saves time and effort. At the same time, the swing drive component does not move with the linear movement of the adjustment arm by setting the clearance groove 10 on the upper part of the adjustment arm, which reduces the load on the linear drive component.

[0027] like Figure 3 As shown, in this specific embodiment, the linear drive assembly also includes a linear drive motor 5 and a mounting base 14 connected by bolts. The mounting base 14 is connected to the fixed bracket 2 by bolts. The linear drive motor 5 includes a lead screw 15, which is connected to the drive arm 12 by a pin. To avoid jamming of the pin 3, the extension and retraction direction of the lead screw 15 is consistent with the length direction of the upper column 1.

[0028] like Figure 3 As shown, to ensure smooth swinging of the adjusting arm, in this specific embodiment, the swing drive assembly further includes a connected swing drive motor 6 and a second mounting base. The second mounting base is connected to the fixed bracket 2 and is a hinge support. The swing drive motor 6 includes a second lead screw 13, which is connected to the second drive arm 8. By using the second mounting base as a hinge support, the rotational connection between the swing drive motor 6 and the fixed bracket 2 is ensured, allowing the swing drive motor to swing as the adjusting arm moves, thus avoiding jamming during the movement of the adjusting arm. Preferably, the second lead screw 13 is connected to the second drive arm 8 by at least two bolts. In this specific embodiment, two bolts are provided to prevent relative rotation between the second lead screw 13 and the second drive arm 8, which would cause wear on the second pin 9 and the arc-shaped guide groove 7.

[0029] like Figure 4As shown, in this specific embodiment, the adjusting arm can adopt the following specific structure: the adjusting arm includes an adjusting part two and an adjusting part one 11 connected sequentially from top to bottom. The adjusting part two is provided with a relief groove 10, and a pin two 9 is provided relatively movable in the relief groove 10. The adjusting part one 11 is rotatably provided with a pin one 3. The adjusting part two and the upper tube column 1 are an integrated structure. The adjusting part one 11 is an arc-shaped structure. The adjusting part one 11 bends away from the upper tube column 1. The strength of the adjusting arm is enhanced by the integrated structure and the arc-shaped structure to prevent deformation and breakage, which would cause movement jamming.

[0030] In this specific embodiment, both the linear drive motor 5 and the oscillating drive motor 6 are equipped with torque sensors. The torque sensors enable the corresponding motors to know that the corresponding components have reached the termination position in the moving direction, thus preventing the corresponding motors from being damaged due to continuous operation.

[0031] In this specific embodiment, the adjustment part 11 is also provided with reinforcing ribs.

[0032] In this specific embodiment, for ease of operation, an electrically connected controller and an electric control switch are also included. The electric control switch is equipped with corresponding "up", "down", "forward" and "backward" buttons. The swing drive motor 6 and the linear drive motor 5 are electrically connected to the controller. When the operator presses the "up" button, the linear drive motor 5 rotates, causing the lead screw 15 to extend upward, thus moving the adjusting arm upward. The pin 3 moves within the linear guide groove 4, thereby moving the steering wheel upward. When the "forward" button is pressed, the swing drive motor 6 rotates, causing the lead screw 13 to retract. The drive arm 8 swings towards the front of the vehicle, and the pin 9 moves within the arc-shaped guide groove 7, causing the steering wheel to rotate forward. Specific Implementation Method Two

[0034] This specific embodiment provides a steering wheel adjustment method, employing the steering control device from Embodiment 1. A linear drive motor 5 and a sway drive motor 6 operate simultaneously to move the steering wheel. When the steering wheel reaches the desired position, both the linear drive motor 5 and the sway drive motor 6 cease operation, locking the steering wheel. By simultaneously driving the steering wheel in both vertical and horizontal directions, the accuracy of steering wheel position adjustment is ensured, while simultaneously improving adjustment efficiency.

[0035] As can be seen from the above specific embodiments, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0036] 1. The position of the upper column 1, i.e. the steering wheel, is electrically adjusted by the cooperation of the linear drive component and the swing drive component, which saves time and effort. At the same time, the swing drive component does not move with the linear movement of the adjustment arm by setting the clearance groove 10 on the upper part of the adjustment arm, which reduces the load on the linear drive component.

[0037] 2. By aligning the extension and retraction direction of the lead screw 15 with the length direction of the upper tube column 1, the jamming of the linear movement of the adjusting arm can be avoided.

[0038] 3. The hinge support of mounting base 2 ensures the rotational connection between the swing drive motor 6 and the fixed bracket 2, ensuring smooth swing of the adjusting arm;

[0039] 4. By setting at least two bolts, relative rotation between the lead screw 13 and the drive arm 8 can be avoided, which would cause wear on the pin 9 and the arc-shaped guide groove 7.

[0040] 5. The integrated and arc-shaped structure enhances the strength of the adjusting arm, preventing deformation and breakage that could cause movement to become stuck;

[0041] 6. The torque sensor enables the corresponding motor to know when the corresponding component has reached the end position in the direction of movement, thus preventing the corresponding motor from being damaged due to continuous operation.

[0042] 7. By simultaneously driving the steering wheel in both up-down and forward-backward directions, the accuracy of steering wheel position adjustment can be ensured, while also improving adjustment efficiency.

[0043] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A steering control device, comprising a fixed bracket (2), characterized in that, The fixed bracket (2) is equipped with an upper tube column (1) inside. An adjusting arm is provided at the lower part of the upper tube column (1). A linear drive assembly is provided on the fixed bracket (2). The linear drive assembly includes a drive arm (12). The drive arm (12) and the adjusting arm are rotatably connected by a pin (3). The pin (3) can move along the linear guide groove (4) on the fixed bracket (2). The length direction of the linear guide groove (4) is consistent with the length direction of the upper tube column (1). An avoidance groove is provided at the upper part of the adjusting arm. 10), the length direction of the clearance groove (10) is consistent with the length direction of the upper column (1). The clearance groove (10) is provided with a pin shaft two (9) that can be moved relatively. The fixed bracket (2) is also provided with a swing drive assembly. The swing drive assembly includes a drive arm two (8). The drive arm two (8) is connected to the pin shaft two (9). The pin shaft two (9) can move along the arc guide groove (7) on the fixed bracket (2). The center of the arc guide groove (7) is the connection point between the drive arm one (12) and the adjusting arm.

2. The steering control device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The linear drive assembly also includes a linear drive motor (5) and a mounting base (14) connected to each other. The mounting base (14) is connected to the fixed bracket (2). The linear drive motor (5) includes a lead screw (15) connected to the drive arm (12).

3. The steering control device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The extension and retraction direction of the lead screw (15) is consistent with the length direction of the upper tube column (1).

4. The steering control device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The swing drive assembly also includes a swing drive motor (6) and a mounting base two connected to each other. The mounting base two is connected to the fixed bracket (2) and is a hinge support. The swing drive motor (6) includes a lead screw two (13) and is connected to the drive arm two (8).

5. The steering control device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The second lead screw (13) is connected to the second drive arm (8) by at least two bolts.

6. The steering control device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The adjusting arm includes an adjusting part 2 and an adjusting part 1 (11) connected in sequence. The adjusting part 2 is provided with a relief groove (10), and a pin 2 (9) is provided in the relief groove (10) and can be moved relative to each other. The adjusting part 1 (11) is provided with a pin 1 (3).

7. The steering control device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The second adjustment section and the upper tube column (1) are an integrated structure, and the first adjustment section (11) is an arc-shaped structure. The first adjustment section (11) bends away from the upper tube column (1).

8. The steering control device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The adjustment section (11) is also equipped with reinforcing ribs.

9. The steering control device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, Both the linear drive motor (5) and the oscillating drive motor (6) are equipped with torque sensors.

10. A method for adjusting a steering wheel, characterized in that, The steering control device as described in any one of claims 4 or 9 is used, in which the linear drive motor and the oscillating drive motor work simultaneously to drive the steering wheel to move. When the steering wheel moves to the appropriate position, the linear drive motor and the oscillating drive motor stop working at the same time, and the steering wheel is locked.

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