Automobile electric small door double damping clutch actuator and operation method thereof

Abstract

The present invention discloses a dual-damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile and an operating method thereof, comprising: a motor, a worm gear assembly, a first gear assembly and a second gear assembly, wherein the first gear assembly and the second gear assembly each comprise two coaxially arranged transmission units and a damping sleeve, wherein the damping sleeve is fixed to the transmission unit on the input side and is radially interference fit in the transmission unit on the output side, the second gear assembly is connected to the electric small door, and a one-way bearing is further provided between the two transmission units of the second gear assembly, the one-way bearing provides a locking torque in the opening direction to the two transmission units of the second gear assembly, and allows the two transmission units of the second gear assembly to rotate relative to each other in the closing direction, so as to realize manual operation during power failure and opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of automobile parts, and in particular to an automobile electric small door double-damping clutch actuator and an operating method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Currently, electronic actuators used in the market are applied to vehicle components that can be manually operated by users, such as electric doors, wherein the actuators generally include a motor and a gear transmission device connected to the motor;

[0003] A prior art vehicle actuator employs a clutch device within a gear transmission to achieve transmission clutching. This clutch device typically comprises two axially abutting convex members. When excessive torque is applied, the two convex members can axially separate, thereby disconnecting the transmission. However, the actuator also includes an elastic member that resets the two convex members. This elastic member forces the two convex members back into engagement after separation. As high torque continues to be applied, the two convex members produce a "clicking" noise.

[0004] In addition, in the actuators of the prior art, only one clutch is usually provided, so the feel is the same whether the user is manually operating or forcibly opening the door in an unexpected situation such as a power outage. In order to ensure that the electric door is not thrown out during the driving of the vehicle, the user needs to apply a large force to exceed the maximum torque of the clutch, which makes it difficult for the user to perform follow-up operations during the normal opening and closing of the actuator. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention aims to provide a dual-damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile.

[0006] The above technical objectives of the present invention are achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0007] Automobile electric small door double damping clutch actuator, including:

[0008] a motor providing driving torque, and a worm gear assembly, a first gear assembly, and a second gear assembly arranged along a torque transmission path,

[0009] The first gear assembly and the second gear assembly each include two coaxially arranged transmission units, and a damping sleeve arranged between the two transmission units, the damping sleeve being fixed to the transmission unit on the input side and being radially interference fit in the transmission unit on the output side, the second gear assembly being connected to the electric small door, and a one-way bearing being further provided between the two transmission units of the second gear assembly, the one-way bearing providing a locking torque in an opening direction for the two transmission units of the second gear assembly and allowing the two transmission units of the second gear assembly to rotate relative to each other in a closing direction;

[0010] The first gear assembly provides a first overload torque through a damping sleeve, the second gear assembly provides a second overload torque smaller than the first overload torque through a damping sleeve, the locking torque is greater than the first overload torque, and the self-locking torque of the worm gear assembly is greater than the first overload torque;

[0011] The second gear assembly maintains the relative stillness of the two transmission units and the damping sleeve in the opening direction through the one-way bearing, and transmits a manual opening torque of the first gear assembly greater than the first overload torque under the action of an external force, so as to force the two transmission units of the first gear assembly to rotate relative to each other and disengage the transmission;

[0012] The second gear assembly transmits the electric closing torque through the damping sleeve therein in the electric closing direction, and bears the manual closing torque greater than the second overload torque under the action of external force, so as to force the two transmission units of the second gear assembly to rotate relative to each other and disengage the transmission. The manual closing torque is set to actuate the electric small door in the closing direction.

[0013] Furthermore, the transmission units on the input side all have a transmission cavity, and the transmission units on the output side all have a shaft portion, and the shaft portion is at least partially inserted into the transmission cavity. The damping sleeve is radially pressed into the transmission cavity on the circumferential surface, and the inner surface of the damping sleeve is pre-tightened on the outer surface of the shaft portion, and a first overload torque is defined between the first damping sleeve and the gear shaft, and a second overload torque is defined between the second damping sleeve and the output shaft, and the one-way bearing is inserted into the transmission cavity of the second gear assembly.

[0014] Furthermore, the first gear assembly includes:

[0015] An input gear and a gear shaft are coaxially connected, and a first damping sleeve is sleeved between the input gear and the gear shaft. The input gear receives torque as an input side, and the gear shaft outputs torque as an output side. The first damping sleeve maintains static friction with the gear shaft and slides against the gear shaft after receiving a torque greater than a first overload torque.

[0016] The second gear assembly includes:

[0017] An output gear and an output shaft are coaxially plugged in, and a second damping sleeve is sleeved between the output gear and the output shaft. The output gear serves as the input side, and the output shaft serves as the output side to output torque. The second damping sleeve maintains static friction with the output shaft, and slides with the output shaft after receiving a torque greater than the second overload torque in the closing direction. The one-way bearing is sleeved on the output shaft and is axially upper-limited between the output gear and the output shaft.

[0018] Furthermore, the damping sleeve includes an outer contour feature, which is used to match the inner wall of the transmission unit on the input side and restrict relative rotation with the transmission unit on the input side in terms of shape;

[0019] The damping sleeve also includes elastic deformation parts protruding in the radial direction. The elastic deformation parts are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction and have a pre-tensioned interference fit with the transmission unit on the output side, so that the transmission unit on the output side rotates relative to the damping sleeve when overloaded.

[0020] Furthermore, the damping sleeve is axially limited in the transmission cavity, or pre-tightened in the axial direction.

[0021] Furthermore, a first transmission cavity is defined inside the input gear, a first limiting portion is provided at one end of the first transmission cavity, a second limiting portion is provided at the other end of the gear shaft corresponding to the first transmission cavity, and the axial end face of the first damping sleeve is positioned between the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion.

[0022] Furthermore, a second transmission chamber is defined inside the input gear, a third limiting portion is provided at one end of the second transmission chamber, the one-way bearing abuts against the third limiting portion, the second damping sleeve abuts against the one-way bearing, and the actuator includes a shell, a fourth limiting portion abutting against the second damping sleeve is provided on the shell, and the fourth limiting portion is arranged corresponding to the other end of the second transmission chamber.

[0023] Furthermore, a detection shaft is provided at the end of the output shaft, a circuit board is provided in the actuator, a potentiometer is provided on the circuit board, and the detection device is arranged on the potentiometer.

[0024] Furthermore, it also includes a shell, a circuit board and a motor arranged in the shell, the motor is perpendicular to the axes of the first gear assembly and the second gear assembly, the circuit board is arranged in the same direction as the motor axis, and the circuit board divides the first gear assembly, the second gear assembly and the worm gear assembly in their axial directions respectively, the shell has a partition wall and a transmission gap arranged along the axis of the motor, the motor is placed horizontally on one side of the partition wall, the worm gear assembly is arranged at the transmission gap, and is respectively connected to the motor and the first gear assembly, the first gear assembly and the second gear assembly are arranged on the other side of the partition wall, and an electrical connection port electrically connected to the circuit board extends from the outer edge of the shell, and the electrical connection port is arranged in the same direction as the circuit board.

[0025] The present invention also provides an operating method for a friction clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile, comprising the following steps:

[0026] Electric opening:

[0027] A1: The actuator receives the opening signal, the motor starts to rotate in the opening direction and provides the rated torque;

[0028] A2, the motor actuates the worm gear assembly and transmits torque to the input gear, which rotates together with the first damping sleeve and drives the gear shaft to rotate through the static friction between the first damping sleeve and the gear shaft;

[0029] A3. The gear shaft drives the output gear to rotate. The output gear and the output shaft rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing. The second damping sleeve rotates synchronously with the output gear and the output shaft, actuating the electric door to open.

[0030] A4: The electric door opens to the fully open position, and the position signal and the angular position of the output shaft are fed back, and then the actuator stops;

[0031] Manual opening:

[0032] B1: In the power-off state, manually pull the electric door and apply manual opening torque;

[0033] B2: The output gear and the output shaft rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing, and the second damping sleeve rotates synchronously with the output gear and the output shaft. The output gear transmits torque to the gear shaft, and the gear shaft transmits a manual opening torque greater than the first overload torque to the first damping sleeve. At this time, the gear shaft rotates relative to the second damping sleeve and generates sliding friction.

[0034] B3, the electric door is manually moved to the fully open position;

[0035] Electric closing:

[0036] C1, the actuator receives the closing signal and detects the angular position of the output shaft. The motor starts to rotate in the closing direction and provides the rated torque.

[0037] C2, the motor actuates the worm gear assembly and transmits torque to the input gear, which rotates together with the first damping sleeve and drives the gear shaft to rotate through the static friction between the first damping sleeve and the gear shaft;

[0038] C3. The gear shaft drives the output gear to rotate. The output gear and the output shaft rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing. The second damping sleeve rotates synchronously with the output gear and the output shaft, and the electric door is actuated to close.

[0039] C4, the electric door moves to the fully closed position, and feeds back the in-position signal and the angular position of the output shaft, and then the actuator stops.

[0040] Manual shutdown:

[0041] D1, manually apply the manual closing torque to the electric door in the closing direction;

[0042] D2, the one-way bearing releases the lock of the output gear and the output shaft in the closing direction, the manual closing torque is greater than the second overload torque, and overcomes the static friction between the second damping sleeve and the output shaft;

[0043] D3, under the action of manual closing torque, the output shaft rotates relative to the second damping sleeve and generates sliding friction;

[0044] D4, the actuator detects the angular position of the output shaft until the electric door moves to the fully closed position.

[0045] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages and beneficial effects:

[0046] The present invention provides a worm gear assembly, a first gear assembly and a second gear assembly on the torque transmission path to achieve a deceleration effect, wherein the worm gear assembly provides a self-locking torque at the output end of the motor.

[0047] The first gear assembly provides a first overload torque through a first damping sleeve, and the second gear assembly provides a second overload torque through a second damping sleeve. At the same time, the second gear assembly also provides a locking torque in the opening direction through a one-way bearing, so that the small door can be opened and closed by applying external force by the user.

[0048] When manually opening, the one-way bearing fixes the second gear assembly as an integral component. At this time, the user needs to overcome the first overload torque to provide a greater operating feel, so that the transmission unit of the first gear assembly rotates relative to each other by friction. At this time, the electric small door is opened under the action of external force, thereby coping with the situation where the small door loses power;

[0049] During manual closing, the one-way bearing releases the locking torque. At this time, the user only needs to overcome the second overload torque of the second damping sleeve to provide a smaller operating feel, so that the second gear assembly transmission unit rotates relative frictionally, thereby realizing manual operation closing during the closing process of the electric small door. In addition, the first damping sleeve and the second damping sleeve can be frictionally clutched in the opening direction and the closing direction, thereby avoiding stalling in the opening and closing directions and causing damage to the internal transmission structure.

[0050] The present invention provides a static holding force on the gear stage through the damping sleeve. The damping sleeve plays the role of transmitting torque, so that the coaxial transmission unit rotates synchronously, thereby providing driving force during normal electric opening and electric closing. In the state of power failure or power outage, the user can manually operate the electric small door. At this time, the torque of the manual actuation output final stage is applied to the output member. The user needs to apply a torque greater than the limit torque to cause the friction clutch of the transmission gear stage to realize the forced opening of the connecting member.

[0051] This method also provides the actuator with sufficient holding force, which helps prevent the connector from being thrown off during vehicle driving. In addition, during the normal opening and closing process of the connector, the user can also manually actuate the connector directly to achieve the abuse of follow-up operation;

[0052] In addition, during the friction clutch operation, the sliding friction of the damping sleeve can still provide the user with a certain hand feel. The present invention avoids the axial spring in the transmission system, thereby effectively avoiding axial collision during the process, and there is no abnormal noise caused by hard collision of concave and convex structures, achieving a silent effect. In comparison, it also avoids wear between axial clutch components and fatigue of axial springs, thereby reducing the factors of clutch failure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the second gear assembly of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 4 is an exploded schematic diagram of the second gear assembly of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first gear assembly of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 6 is an exploded schematic diagram of the first gear assembly of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of the internal arrangement of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention after the shell is removed;

[0061] In the picture:

[0062] 1. Motor; 2. Worm gear assembly; 2.1. Worm; 2.2. Worm gear; 3. First gear assembly; 3.1. Input gear; 3.2. Gear shaft; 3.3. First transmission cavity; 3.4. First stopper; 3.5. Second stopper; 3.6. Matching profile; 4. Second gear assembly; 4.1. Output gear; 4.2. Output shaft; 4.3. Second transmission cavity; 4.4. Third stopper; 4.5. Stopper Recess; 5. One-way bearing; 6. First damping sleeve; 7. Second damping sleeve; 8. Outer contour features; 8.1. Special-shaped contour; 8.2. Strip-shaped protrusion; 9. Elastic deformation portion; 10. Housing; 10.1. Fourth limiting portion; 10.2. Partition wall; 10.3. Transmission notch; 10.4. Electrical connection port; 11. Detection shaft; 12. Circuit board; 13. Potentiometer; 14. Intermediate gear assembly; 15. C-shaped retaining ring; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0064] It should be understood that although terms such as upper, middle, lower, top, end, etc. appear in this document to describe various elements, these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish elements from each other for ease of understanding, and are not used to define any direction or order limitation.

[0065] like Figure 1-8 As shown, the dual-damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile includes:

[0066] A motor 1 that provides driving torque, and a worm gear 2.1 assembly 2, a first gear assembly 3, and a second gear assembly 4 arranged along the torque transmission path. Preferably, an intermediate gear assembly 14 is further provided between the worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 and the first gear assembly 3. The second gear assembly 4 is connected to the electric wicket;

[0067] The first gear assembly 3 and the second gear assembly 4 each include two coaxially arranged transmission units and a damping sleeve arranged between the two transmission units. The damping sleeve is fixed to the transmission unit on the input side and is radially interference fit in the transmission unit on the output side. The damping sleeve is used to transmit torque between the two coaxial transmission units and provide friction clutching when subjected to overload torque. That is, during normal transmission, the two transmission units and the damping sleeve maintain relatively stationary synchronous rotation. Under overload or external force, the transmission unit on the output side rotates relative to the damping sleeve and generates sliding friction.

[0068] Among them, a one-way bearing 5 is further provided between the two transmission units of the second gear assembly 4. The one-way bearing 5 provides a locking torque in the opening direction for the two transmission units of the second gear assembly 4. At this time, the one-way bearing 5 plays a locking role, and allows the two transmission units of the second gear assembly 4 to rotate relative to each other in the closing direction. At this time, the one-way bearing 5 plays a normal bearing role.

[0069] The first gear assembly 3 provides a first overload torque through the damping sleeve, the second gear assembly 4 provides a second overload torque smaller than the first overload torque through the damping sleeve, the locking torque is greater than the first overload torque, and the self-locking torque of the worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 is greater than the first overload torque;

[0070] Therefore, under the action of the one-way bearing 5, the second gear assembly 4 keeps the two transmission units and the damping sleeve relatively stationary in the opening direction, that is, the overall transmission of the second gear assembly 4 is realized. At this time, the damping sleeve therein does not produce a torque transmission effect. At this time, under the action of overload or external force, the second gear assembly 4 receives a manual opening torque greater than the first overload torque through the electric small door and transmits it to the first gear assembly 3. At this time, the output side transmission unit of the first gear assembly 3 is forced to rotate relative to its damping sleeve and disengage the transmission, thereby performing a manual opening operation in the power-off state;

[0071] The second gear assembly 4 transmits the electric closing torque through the damping sleeve therein in the electric closing direction.

[0072] In the closing direction, since the one-way bearing releases the locking effect, the user can apply a manual closing torque in the closing direction to the electric door. The manual closing torque is greater than the second overload torque to force the two transmission units of the second gear assembly 4 to rotate relative to each other and disengage the transmission, specifically, the output side transmission unit of the second gear assembly 4 rotates relative to its damping sleeve.

[0073] In some cases, if a manual opening force is applied in the closing direction, the first gear assembly 3 will experience the above-mentioned friction clutch phenomenon, thereby avoiding damage to the teeth in the transmission system. Thanks to the setting of the worm gear 2.1, it is ensured that there is no rotation between the motor 1 shaft and the first gear assembly 3, ensuring the normal friction clutch of the first gear assembly 3. At the same time, the friction clutch effect of the damping sleeve is also reflected in the situation where obstacles and jams are encountered in the closing and opening path of the electric small door, so as to avoid damage to the electric small door.

[0074] As an implementation method for the cooperation between the transmission unit and the damping sleeve, the transmission unit on the input side has a transmission cavity, and the transmission unit on the output side has a shaft portion, which is used for transmitting torque. The shaft portion is at least partially inserted into the transmission cavity, and the damping sleeve is radially pressed into the transmission cavity on the circumferential surface. The inner surface of the damping sleeve is pre-tightened on the outer surface of the shaft portion. In this way, the damping sleeve is positioned in the transmission cavity, and power is transmitted to the transmission unit on the output side by extrusion in the radial direction. Furthermore, the damping sleeve has a non-circular outer surface corresponding to the transmission cavity, and it maintains a fixed non-relative rotational relationship with the transmission unit on the input side through the outer surface to ensure that friction clutching is performed between the inner surface of the damping sleeve and the transmission unit on the output side.

[0075] In this embodiment, the damping sleeve has an incomplete deformation in the radial direction in the assembled state. Its purpose is to provide sufficient rated transmission torque. When the damping sleeve bears the overload torque from the external force, it can produce friction clutch with the transmission unit on the output side through further elastic deformation. After the overload torque is eliminated, the damping sleeve again holds the transmission unit on the output side in a pre-tightened posture through its own elastic reset force. Compared with the separation and engagement of the concave and convex parts on the traditional shaft end face, the damping sleeve of the present invention effectively solves the clutch noise problem, reduces wear, and improves the service life of the actuator.

[0076] In other embodiments, different material surfaces may be provided on the output-side shaft portion, or different material coverings may be added to control the overload torque through the friction coefficient.

[0077] As a further embodiment of the first gear assembly 3 and the second gear assembly 4:

[0078] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first gear assembly 3 includes:

[0079] The input gear 3.1 and the gear shaft 3.2 are coaxially connected, and the first damping sleeve 6 is sleeved between the input gear 3.1 and the gear shaft 3.2.

[0080] The input gear 3.1 serves as the transmission unit on the input side to receive torque, and the gear shaft 3.2 serves as the transmission unit on the output side to output torque. A first transmission chamber 3.3 with an open shaft end is defined on the inner side of the input gear 3.1. A first damping sleeve 6 is placed in the first transmission chamber 3.3 and is fixed relative to the input gear 3.1. The first damping sleeve 6 maintains static friction with the gear shaft 3.2 through a first overload torque, and then engages in sliding friction with the gear shaft 3.2 after receiving a torque greater than the first overload torque.

[0081] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the second gear assembly 4 includes:

[0082] The output gear 4.1 and output shaft 4.2 are coaxially plugged together, and a second damping sleeve 7 is sleeved between the output gear 4.1 and the output shaft 4.2. The output gear 4.1 serves as the transmission unit on the input side, and the output shaft 4.2 serves as the transmission unit on the output side to output torque. A second transmission chamber 4.3 with an open shaft end is defined inside the output gear 4.1. The second damping sleeve 7 is placed in the second transmission chamber 4.3 and maintains static friction with the output shaft 4.2. After absorbing a torque greater than the second overload torque in the closing direction, it slides in friction with the output shaft 4.2. The one-way bearing 5 is placed in the second transmission chamber 4.3 and sleeved on the output shaft 4.2, with its upper axial limit positioned between the output gear 4.1 and the output shaft 4.2.

[0083] Through the above arrangement, due to the locking torque of the one-way bearing 5 in the opening direction and the unlocking effect in the closing direction, a first overload torque in the opening direction is defined between the first damping sleeve 6 and the gear shaft 3.2, and a second overload torque in the closing direction is defined between the second damping sleeve 7 and the output shaft 4.2.

[0084] As an example, the first overload torque is set to 6 N·m and the second overload torque is set to 1.4 N·m, so that the user can apply a smaller force in the closing direction during the closing process, and in the opening direction, a larger force needs to be applied to force the electric door to open. This is to prevent the electric door from being thrown away due to excessively small holding force in the opening direction during driving and turning. Therefore, the first overload torque is set to the required holding force in the driving state to ensure the position stability of the electric door. At the same time, this setting method does not require additional locking actuators and emergency unlocking structures on the electric door, which simplifies the design of the electric door and reduces costs.

[0085] As a further embodiment of the damping sleeve, Figure 5 and Figure 6It can be seen that the damping sleeve is a circumferentially closed annular component, and its outer side has an outer contour feature 8. The outer contour feature 8 is used to match the inner wall of the transmission unit on the input side. The outer contour feature 8 preferably has a non-circular surface and its shape limits the relative rotation with the transmission unit on the input side.

[0086] As an example, the outer contour feature 8 may be as follows Figure 4 The special-shaped profile 8.1 of the regular polygon and arc surface shown in the figure, and the matching profile 3.6 matching the special-shaped profile 8.1 are provided in the transmission cavity, thereby providing reliable holding force to prevent the damping sleeve and the transmission unit on the input side from rotating relative to each other. In the assembled state, the shaft portion of the transmission unit on the output side is inserted into the damping sleeve, thereby providing an extrusion amount for the outer profile feature 8 and the inner wall of the transmission cavity in the radial direction.

[0087] As an example, the outer contour feature 8 may also be as follows Figure 6 The strip-shaped protrusion 8.2 is shown in the figure, and a limiting recess 4.5 corresponding to the strip-shaped protrusion 8.2 is provided in the corresponding transmission cavity.

[0088] The inner side of the damping sleeve is provided with an elastic deformation part 9, which protrudes in the radial direction. The elastic deformation part 9 is spaced apart in the circumferential direction and has a pre-tensioned interference fit with the transmission unit on the output side. It is preferably tightly clamped on the shaft of the transmission unit on the output side. The elastic deformation part 9 maintains an interference fit with the shaft under normal conditions, and produces a certain amount of elastic deformation. Under the predetermined rated torque of electric opening and electric closing, it can normally transmit power to the electric small door, so that the electric small door performs electric opening and closing actions. After taking on the overload torque as mentioned above, the shaft rotates relative to the damping sleeve when overloaded. At this time, the elastic deformation part 9 further produces elastic deformation and generates sliding friction, thereby realizing friction clutch.

[0089] Preferably, the elastic deformation portion 9 extends in the axial direction. In other embodiments, the elastic deformation portion 9 may also be a plurality of point-shaped protrusions in the radial direction, which are arranged at intervals in the axial direction and the circumferential direction.

[0090] Further references Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in other embodiments, since the damping sleeve is installed and positioned in the transmission cavity with an open end, the damping sleeve maintains axial limitation in the transmission cavity, or the damping sleeve can be pre-tightened in the axial direction through the installation and limiting structure of the damping sleeve, thereby ensuring the position stability of the damping sleeve and generating a radial component through the axial tightening of the damping sleeve, the purpose of which is to ensure that the damping sleeve can transmit the output side and the transmission unit on the output side when the rated torque is transmitted.

[0091] Specifically, a first transmission chamber 3.3 is defined inside the input gear 3.1, and a radially extending first limit portion 3.4 is provided at one end of the first transmission chamber 3.3. A radially extending second limit portion 3.5 is provided at the other end of the gear shaft 3.2 corresponding to the first transmission chamber 3.3. The axial end face of the first damping sleeve 6 is positioned between the first limit portion 3.4 and the second limit portion 3.5. In addition, an annular groove is also provided at the end of the gear shaft 3.2 corresponding to the first limit portion 3.4, and a C-shaped retaining spring 15 is provided on the annular groove, which is pressed against the end face of the input gear 3.1.

[0092] Specifically, a second transmission chamber 4.3 is defined inside the input gear 3.1, and a radially extending third limit portion 4.4 is provided at one end of the second transmission chamber 4.3. The one-way bearing 5 abuts against the third limit portion 4.4, and the second damping sleeve 7 abuts against the one-way bearing 5. The actuator includes a housing 10, and a fourth limit portion 10.1 is provided on the housing 10, which abuts against the second damping sleeve 7. The fourth limit portion 10.1 is arranged corresponding to the other end of the second transmission chamber 4.3.

[0093] Furthermore, a hole portion for the output shaft 4.2 to pass through is defined at the fourth limiting portion 10.1 of the housing 10. The end of the output shaft 4.2 is preferably received in the hole portion, and an inwardly recessed spline is provided at the end of the output shaft 4.2 to cooperate with the pivot of the electric door.

[0094] A sealing ring is provided at the hole portion, and the sealing ring abuts against the end of the output shaft 4.2.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the first and second limiting portions 3.4 and 3.5, as well as the third and fourth limiting portions 4.4 and 10.1, which are axially opposed to each other, are used to limit the first and second damping sleeves 6 and 7 in the axial direction. Furthermore, the above limiting portions further press the first and second damping sleeves 6 and 7 in the axial direction, thereby providing a radial component to ensure that the first and second damping sleeves return to the interference fit state for power transmission after the friction clutch is completed.

[0096] Specifically, a detection shaft 11 is provided at the end of the output shaft 4.2, a circuit board 12 is provided in the actuator, and a potentiometer 13 is provided on the circuit board 12. After detection, the potentiometer 13 is provided, and the detection shaft 11 rotates synchronously with the output shaft 4.2 to detect the angular position of the output shaft 4.2, so that the actuator can control the actuator's movement stroke according to the current angular position of the output shaft 4.2 after manual operation.

[0097] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, specifically, it also includes a shell 10, a circuit board 12 and a motor 1 arranged in the shell 10, the motor 1 is perpendicular to the axis of the first gear assembly 3 and the second gear assembly 4, the circuit board 12 is arranged in the same direction as the axial direction of the motor 1, and the circuit board 12 divides the first gear assembly 3, the second gear assembly 4 and the worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 in their axial directions, the shell 10 has a partition wall 10.2 and a transmission gap 10.3 arranged along the axial direction of the motor 1, the motor 1 is placed horizontally on one side of the partition wall 10.2, the worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 is arranged at the transmission gap 10.3, and is respectively connected to the motor 1 and the first gear assembly 3, the first gear assembly 3 and the second gear assembly 4 are arranged on the other side of the partition wall 10.2, and an electrical connection port 10.4 electrically connected to the circuit board 12 is extended from the outer edge of the shell 10, and the electrical connection port 10.4 is arranged in the same direction as the circuit board 12.

[0098] Through the above improvements, the actuator housing 10 is divided into a U-shaped cavity, specifically divided into a motor 1 cavity and a gear cavity by a partition wall 10.2. The worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 includes a worm 2.1 arranged on the motor 1 shaft, and a worm wheel component 2.2 arranged perpendicular to the motor 1. The worm wheel component 2.2 is arranged at the transmission notch 10.3. The intermediate gear assembly 14, the first gear assembly 3 and the second gear assembly 4 are arranged in the gear cavity toward the end away from the motor 1 shaft to define the joining area between the circuit board 12 and the electrical connection port 10.4 on the side of the gear cavity adjacent to the motor 1 shaft. In addition, the worm wheel component 2.2, the intermediate gear assembly 14 and the second gear assembly 4 are all double gear components in the axial direction. The circuit board 12 is separated in its axial position so that the circuit board 12 and the above-mentioned gear component overlap in projection, thereby fully compressing the volume of the actuator and effectively utilizing its internal space.

[0099] An operating method for a friction clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile comprises the following steps:

[0100] Electric opening:

[0101] A1: The actuator receives the open signal, and motor 1 starts to rotate in the open direction and provides rated torque.

[0102] A2, the motor 1 actuates the worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 and transmits torque to the input gear 3.1. The input gear 3.1 rotates together with the first damping sleeve 6, and the static friction between the first damping sleeve 6 and the gear shaft 3.2 drives the gear shaft 3.2 to rotate;

[0103] A3 and gear shaft 3.2 drive the output gear 4.1 to rotate. The output gear 4.1 and the output shaft 4.2 rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing 5. The second damping sleeve 7 rotates synchronously with the output gear 4.1 and the output shaft 4.2, and actuates the electric small door to open.

[0104] A4: The electric door opens to the fully open position and provides feedback on the in-position signal and the angular position of the output shaft 4.2, after which the actuator stops.

[0105] Manual opening:

[0106] B1: In the power-off state, manually pull the electric door and apply manual opening torque;

[0107] B2: Output gear 4.1 and output shaft 4.2 rotate synchronously under the locking torque of one-way bearing 5, and second damping sleeve 7 rotates synchronously with output gear 4.1 and output shaft 4.2. Output gear 4.1 transmits torque to gear shaft 3.2, which transmits a manual opening torque greater than the first overload torque to first damping sleeve 6. At this time, gear shaft 3.2 rotates relative to second damping sleeve 7 and generates sliding friction.

[0108] B3, the electric door is manually moved to the fully open position;

[0109] Electric closing:

[0110] C1, the actuator receives the closing signal and detects the angular position of the output shaft 4.2. The motor 1 starts to rotate in the closing direction and provides the rated torque;

[0111] C2, the motor 1 actuates the worm gear 2.1 assembly 2 and transmits torque to the input gear 3.1, which rotates together with the first damping sleeve 6 and drives the gear shaft 3.2 to rotate through the static friction between the first damping sleeve 6 and the gear shaft 3.2;

[0112] C3, gear shaft 3.2 drives output gear 4.1 to rotate. Output gear 4.1 and output shaft 4.2 rotate synchronously under the locking torque of one-way bearing 5. The second damping sleeve 7 rotates synchronously with output gear 4.1 and output shaft 4.2, and actuates the electric small door to close.

[0113] C4, the electric door moves to the fully closed position, and feeds back the in-position signal and the angular position of the output shaft 4.2, and then the actuator stops.

[0114] Manual shutdown:

[0115] D1, manually apply the manual closing torque to the electric door in the closing direction;

[0116] D2, the one-way bearing 5 releases the lock of the output gear 4.1 and the output shaft 4.2 in the closing direction, the manual closing torque is greater than the second overload torque, and overcomes the static friction between the second damping sleeve 7 and the output shaft 4.2;

[0117] D3, under the action of manual abuse torque, the output shaft 4.2 rotates relative to the second damping sleeve 7, and sliding friction occurs;

[0118] D4, the actuator detects the angular position of the output shaft 4.2 until the electric door moves to the fully closed position.

[0119] Through the operating method of the present invention, the first damping sleeve 6 and the second damping sleeve 7 can be frictionally engaged in both the electric opening and electric closing directions when the motor 1 is blocked and the electric small door encounters an obstacle, so as to ensure the protection of the actuator and the electric small door. Moreover, in an emergency state, when the user manually opens the door forcibly, and during the closing process, when the user manually assists in closing the door, different overload torques of the first damping sleeve 6 and the second damping sleeve 7 are used to provide different operating feels and friction clutches corresponding to manual operations. Under the premise of ensuring the holding force of the small door, damage to the electric small door during manual operation is prevented. In addition, the friction clutch is used to achieve stepless rotation, provide a better operating feel, and there is no "clicking" noise during the friction clutch process.

[0120] This specific embodiment is merely an explanation of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art may make non-creative modifications to this embodiment as needed. However, as long as such modifications are within the scope of the claims of the present invention, they are protected by patent law.

Claims

1. Automobile electric small door double damping clutch actuator, characterized by: include: A motor (1) for providing driving torque, and a worm gear (2.1) assembly (2), a first gear assembly (3) and a second gear assembly (4) arranged along a torque transmission path; The first gear assembly (3) and the second gear assembly (4) each comprise two transmission units arranged coaxially, and a damping sleeve arranged between the two transmission units, the damping sleeve being fixed to the transmission unit on the input side and being radially interference-fitted to the transmission unit on the output side, the second gear assembly (4) being connected to the electric door, and a one-way bearing (5) being further provided between the two transmission units of the second gear assembly (4), the one-way bearing (5) providing a locking torque in an opening direction to the two transmission units of the second gear assembly (4), and allowing the two transmission units of the second gear assembly (4) to rotate relative to each other in a closing direction; The first gear assembly (3) provides a first overload torque through a damping sleeve, the second gear assembly (4) provides a second overload torque smaller than the first overload torque through the damping sleeve, the locking torque is greater than the first overload torque, and the self-locking torque of the worm gear (2.1) assembly (2) is greater than the first overload torque; The second gear assembly (4) maintains the relative stillness of the two transmission units and the damping sleeve in the opening direction via the one-way bearing (5), and transmits a manual opening torque of the first gear assembly (3) greater than the first overload torque under the action of an external force, so as to force the two transmission units of the first gear assembly (3) to rotate relative to each other and disengage the transmission; The second gear assembly (4) transmits an electric closing torque in the electric closing direction through a damping sleeve therein, and receives a manual closing torque greater than a second overload torque under the action of an external force, so as to force the two transmission units of the second gear assembly (4) to rotate relative to each other and disengage the transmission, and the manual closing torque is set to actuate the electric small door in the closing direction.

2. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 1, characterized in that: The transmission units on the input side all have a transmission cavity, and the transmission units on the output side all have a shaft portion, which is at least partially inserted into the transmission cavity. The damping sleeve is radially pressed into the transmission cavity on the circumferential surface, and the inner surface of the damping sleeve is pre-tightened on the outer surface of the shaft portion.

3. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first gear assembly (3) comprises: An input gear (3.1) and a gear shaft (3.2) are coaxially plugged together, and a first damping sleeve (6) is sleeved between the input gear (3.1) and the gear shaft (3.2); the input gear (3.1) receives torque as an input side, and the gear shaft (3.2) outputs torque as an output side; the first damping sleeve (6) maintains static friction with the gear shaft (3.2), and performs sliding friction with the gear shaft (3.2) after receiving a torque greater than a first overload torque; The second gear assembly (4) comprises: An output gear (4.1) and an output shaft (4.2) are coaxially plugged together, and a second damping sleeve (7) is sleeved between the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2); the output gear (4.1) serves as an input side, and the output shaft (4.2) serves as an output side to output torque; the second damping sleeve (7) maintains static friction with the output shaft (4.2), and after receiving a torque greater than a second overload torque in the closing direction, it undergoes sliding friction with the output shaft (4.2); the one-way bearing (5) is sleeved on the output shaft (4.2) and is positioned between the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2) in an axial upper limit position; A first overload torque is defined between the first damping sleeve (6) and the gear shaft (3.2), and a second overload torque is defined between the second damping sleeve (7) and the output shaft (4.2). The one-way bearing (5) is placed in a transmission cavity of the second gear assembly (4).

4. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 3, characterized in that: The damping sleeve includes an outer contour feature (8), and the outer contour feature (8) is used to match the inner wall of the transmission unit on the input side and limit the relative rotation with the transmission unit on the input side in terms of shape; The damping sleeve further comprises an elastic deformation portion (9) protruding in the radial direction, the elastic deformation portion (9) being arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction and having a pre-tensioned interference fit with the transmission unit on the output side, so that the transmission unit on the output side rotates relative to the damping sleeve when overloaded.

5. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 1, characterized in that: The damping sleeve is axially limited in the transmission cavity, or pre-tightened in the axial direction.

6. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 3, characterized in that: A first transmission cavity (3.3) is defined inside the input gear (3.1); a first limiting portion (3.4) is provided at one end of the first transmission cavity (3.3); a second limiting portion (3.5) is provided at the other end of the gear shaft (3.2) corresponding to the first transmission cavity (3.3); and an axial end face of the first damping sleeve (6) is positioned between the first limiting portion (3.4) and the second limiting portion (3.5).

7. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 3, characterized in that: A second transmission chamber (4.3) is defined inside the input gear (3.1); a third limiting portion (4.4) is provided at one end of the second transmission chamber (4.3); the one-way bearing (5) abuts against the third limiting portion (4.4); the second damping sleeve (7) abuts against the one-way bearing (5); the actuator comprises a housing (10); a fourth limiting portion (10.1) abutting against the second damping sleeve (7) is provided on the housing (10); the fourth limiting portion (10.1) is provided corresponding to the other end of the second transmission chamber (4.3).

8. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 3, characterized in that: A detection shaft (11) is provided at the end of the output shaft (4.2), a circuit board (12) is provided in the actuator, a potentiometer (13) is provided on the circuit board (12), and the detection is then arranged through the potentiometer (13).

9. The dual damping clutch actuator for an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 1, characterized in that: The invention also includes a housing (10), a circuit board (12) arranged in the housing (10), the motor (1) being perpendicular to the axes of the first gear assembly (3) and the second gear assembly (4), the circuit board (12) being arranged in the same direction as the axial direction of the motor (1), the circuit board (12) respectively dividing the first gear assembly (3), the second gear assembly (4) and the worm gear (2.1) assembly (2) in their axial directions, and the housing (10) having a partition wall (10.2) and a transmission notch (10.3) arranged along the axial direction of the motor (1). The motor (1) is horizontally placed on one side of the partition wall (10.2); the worm gear (2.1) assembly (2) is arranged at the transmission notch (10.3) and is respectively connected to the motor (1) and the first gear assembly (3); the first gear assembly (3) and the second gear assembly (4) are arranged on the other side of the partition wall (10.2); an electrical connection port (10.4) electrically connected to the circuit board (12) extends from the outer edge of the housing (10); the electrical connection port (10.4) is arranged in the same direction as the circuit board (12).

10. An operating method for the dual-damping clutch actuator of an electric small door of an automobile according to claim 3, characterized in that: The following steps are involved: Electric opening: A1, the actuator receives the opening signal, the motor (1) starts to rotate in the opening direction and provides the rated torque; A2, the motor (1) actuates the worm gear (2.1) assembly (2) and transmits torque to the input gear (3.1), the input gear (3.1) rotates together with the first damping sleeve (6), and drives the gear shaft (3.2) to rotate through the static friction between the first damping sleeve (6) and the gear shaft (3.2); A3, the gear shaft (3.2) drives the output gear (4.1) to rotate, the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2) rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing (5), and the second damping sleeve (7) rotates synchronously with the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2), and actuates the electric small door to open; A4, the electric door opens to the fully open position, and the position signal and the angular position of the output shaft (4.2) are fed back, and then the actuator stops; Manual opening: B1: In the power-off state, manually pull the electric door and apply manual opening torque; B2, the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2) rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing (5), and the second damping sleeve (7) rotates synchronously with the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2), the output gear (4.1) transmits torque to the gear shaft (3.2), the gear shaft (3.2) transmits a manual opening torque greater than the first overload torque to the first damping sleeve (6), and at this time the gear shaft (3.2) rotates relative to the second damping sleeve (7) and generates sliding friction; B3, the electric door is manually moved to the fully open position; Electric closing: C1, the actuator receives the closing signal and detects the angular position of the output shaft (4.2), and the motor (1) starts to rotate in the closing direction and provides the rated torque; C2, the motor (1) actuates the worm gear (2.1) assembly (2) and transmits torque to the input gear (3.1), the input gear (3.1) rotates together with the first damping sleeve (6), and drives the gear shaft (3.2) to rotate through the static friction between the first damping sleeve (6) and the gear shaft (3.2); C3, the gear shaft (3.2) drives the output gear (4.1) to rotate, the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2) rotate synchronously under the locking torque of the one-way bearing (5), and the second damping sleeve (7) rotates synchronously with the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2), and actuates the electric small door to close; C4, the electric door moves to the fully closed position, and the position signal and the angular position of the output shaft (4.2) are fed back, and then the actuator stops; Manual shutdown: D1, manually apply the manual closing torque to the electric door in the closing direction; D2, the one-way bearing (5) releases the lock of the output gear (4.1) and the output shaft (4.2) in the closing direction, the manual closing torque is greater than the second overload torque, and overcomes the static friction between the second damping sleeve (7) and the output shaft (4.2); D3, under the action of manual closing torque, the output shaft (4.2) rotates relative to the second damping sleeve (7) and generates sliding friction; D4, the actuator detects the angular position of the output shaft (4.2) until the electric door moves to the fully closed position.

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