Stroke-adjustable squeeze energy absorbing device, system and method

Abstract

The application discloses a stroke freely adjustable extrusion energy absorption device, system and method. The control mechanism of the extrusion energy absorption device can predict the collision risk and collision energy absorption amount according to the detection signal of the detection structure. When predicting the collision risk, the control mechanism controls the pushing mechanism to push the energy absorption element to slide to the required energy absorption stroke position. When colliding, the energy absorption element can push the pushing mechanism under the action of the impact force to drive the push plate to move towards the base, and the push plate pushes the extrusion constraint mechanism to press the energy absorption element, so that the energy absorption element is extruded and clamped. The application breaks through the limitation of the deformation stroke in the existing energy absorption method, can calculate the length of the energy absorption element according to the predicted collision risk, does not need the energy absorption element to be fully stretched, ensures the stability of the energy absorption element in the axial direction and prevents the energy absorption element from being easily bent and deformed, ensures that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the bearing capacity of the vehicle body, can fully absorb energy, and realizes stable dissipation of the collision kinetic energy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of vehicle collision avoidance and energy absorption, specifically to a compression-type energy absorption device, system, and method with freely adjustable stroke. Background Technology

[0002] Statistics show that a significant proportion of vehicle collision accidents involve speeds exceeding national standards. To address safety concerns at higher collision speeds, ZF in Germany developed a side airbag in 2018 that covers the front and rear doors and the B-pillar, reducing impact force by 30%. The pedestrian airbag on the 2013 Volvo V40 deploys after the rear of the hood rises upon detecting a pedestrian impact. Ford has reportedly installed similar airbags. However, these solutions deploy after a collision to absorb energy, not proactively beforehand. Furthermore, this approach primarily protects pedestrians and is only suitable for low-speed collisions. Some researchers have conducted impact tests on externally mounted end-mounted airbags. When a stationary vehicle detects a risk of rear-end collision, the airbag deploys to protect its structure. While this proactive deployment absorbs energy upon detecting a collision risk, the airbag structure's energy absorption is limited, and in cases of accidental deployment, the airbag cannot be retracted for reuse.

[0003] Based on the shortcomings of the aforementioned solutions, the applicant previously proposed a collision energy absorption device for rail vehicles (patent publication number: CN106347404B). This solution has better strength characteristics and collision performance. After detecting a train collision hazard signal, the energy-absorbing tube in the device can actively extend under the drive of the telescopic drive structure to absorb collision energy. The size of the energy-absorbing tube is no longer limited by the position of the coupler structure. Furthermore, in case of false triggering of the energy-absorbing structure, the telescopic drive structure can drive the energy-absorbing tube to be easily retracted into the car body with a single button control, ensuring that vehicles can be properly coupled via couplers.

[0004] However, the energy absorption stroke of the above-mentioned solutions cannot be adjusted as needed. In certain specific situations, the energy absorption device only needs to extend to an appropriate length to fully absorb energy, without having to extend the entire energy absorption structure. This ensures both energy absorption and sufficient lateral stability of the structure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, in order to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention provides a compression-type energy absorption device, system and method with freely adjustable stroke, which can first predict the collision risk and the collision energy absorption, decide whether to enter the extended energy absorption state from the retracted normal state according to the predicted collision risk, and adjust the energy absorption stroke according to the predicted collision energy absorption.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a compression-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke, comprising:

[0007] The base has a seat perforation inside;

[0008] The push plate is located on one side of the base along the axial direction of the seat hole;

[0009] An energy-absorbing element can slide through the seat perforation and the push plate;

[0010] The detection structure is used to monitor vehicles ahead and friendly vehicles.

[0011] The pushing mechanism is connected to both the energy-absorbing element and the push plate.

[0012] A control mechanism, electrically connected to the pushing mechanism and the detection structure, is used to predict collision risk and collision energy absorption based on the detection signal of the detection structure, and when a collision risk is predicted, control the pushing mechanism to push the energy-absorbing element to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position.

[0013] An extrusion constraint mechanism is provided inside the base and connected to the push plate. During a collision, the energy-absorbing element pushes the push mechanism under the impact force, causing the push plate to move toward the base. At the same time, the push plate pushes the extrusion constraint mechanism to press against the energy-absorbing element, thus extruding and constraining the energy-absorbing element.

[0014] An elastic structure connects the push plate and the base.

[0015] The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device of the present invention breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in existing energy absorption methods. It does not require the energy absorption element to extend fully, ensuring the stability of the energy absorption element in its axial direction, which is not prone to bending deformation. This ensures that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the vehicle body's load-bearing capacity, and can fully absorb energy, achieving stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy. Moreover, in the present invention, the movement of the energy absorption element and the force of the push plate pushing the constraint block of the compression constraint mechanism against the energy absorption element are both provided by the pushing mechanism. In addition to consuming electrical energy to drive the movement of the energy absorption element, the force used to drive the constraint block of the compression constraint mechanism against the energy absorption element is provided by the collision force received by the energy absorption element, which does not consume electrical energy. Therefore, the energy consumption of the compression energy absorption device of the present invention is also very low.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the pushing mechanism includes a rack and a motor module. The rack is located on one side of the base along a direction perpendicular to the axis of the seat hole. The rack can slide through the push plate and is connected to the energy-absorbing element. The motor module includes a motor and a gear. The motor is mounted on the push plate, and the gear is connected to the output shaft of the motor and meshes with the rack.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element is a hollow tube structure.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the constraint block is made of steel or aluminum alloy, and the energy-absorbing element is made of aluminum alloy, steel, or carbon fiber composite material.

[0019] In one embodiment of this application, a wedge-shaped groove is provided on the wall of the through hole of the seat, and the depth of the wedge-shaped groove gradually decreases from the push plate to the base; the compression constraint mechanism includes a constraint block and a push block assembly, and the push block assembly is rotatably connected to the push plate and the constraint block respectively.

[0020] In one embodiment of this application, the number of wedge grooves and the compression constraint mechanism are both at least two, and the wedge grooves and the compression constraint mechanism are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The wedge grooves are evenly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the seat hole.

[0021] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element has a collision end and a non-collision end; the surface of the non-collision end of the energy-absorbing element is provided with a stepped surface corresponding to the constraint block one by one, the stepped surface has a guide segment and a non-guide segment, the distance from the guide segment to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element gradually decreases in the direction from the collision end to the non-collision end, and the non-guide segment is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element.

[0022] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element has a collision end and a non-collision end; a stepped surface combination structure is sequentially arranged on the outer surface of the energy-absorbing element along the axial direction of the energy-absorbing element, the stepped surface combination structure includes a stepped surface, and the stepped surface of each stepped surface combination structure is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the constraint block; the stepped surface has a guide segment and a non-guide segment, the distance from the guide segment to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element gradually decreases in the direction from the collision end to the non-collision end, and the non-guide segment is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element.

[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the constraint block is a roller; or, the constraint tube pressure plate has an arc-shaped side facing the energy-absorbing element.

[0024] The present invention also provides a compression energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, including a bumper, a longitudinal beam structure and a compression energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke as described above. The base of the compression energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke is mounted on the longitudinal beam, and the collision end of the energy absorption element of the compression energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke is connected to the bumper.

[0025] The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption system of the present invention, by adopting the freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device as described above, breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in the existing energy absorption methods. It does not require the energy absorption element to extend completely, ensuring the stability of the energy absorption element in its axial direction, ensuring that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the vehicle body bearing capacity, and can fully absorb energy to achieve stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy.

[0026] The present invention also provides a compression-type energy absorption method with freely adjustable stroke, comprising the following steps:

[0027] Provides a compression energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke as described above;

[0028] The detection structure detects the speed of its own vehicle and the vehicle in front of it in real time, as well as the distance between its own vehicle and the vehicle in front of it, and transmits the information to the control mechanism.

[0029] The control mechanism calculates the emergency braking distance and braking deceleration based on the real-time speed of the vehicle. When the calculated emergency braking distance is greater than the detected distance between the vehicle and the vehicle in front, a collision risk is determined. The control mechanism calculates the relative speed between the vehicle and the vehicle in front before the collision, calculates the energy that needs to be dissipated in the event of a collision based on the relative speed between the vehicle and the vehicle in front, and then calculates the extension length of the energy-absorbing element based on the energy dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire compression energy-absorbing system of the vehicle.

[0030] The control mechanism controls the energy-absorbing element to extend to the corresponding length based on the calculated extension length, in order to prevent a collision with the vehicle in front.

[0031] When a collision occurs, the energy-absorbing element retracts and drives the pushing mechanism to push the push plate closer to the base. At the same time, the push plate pushes the squeezing constraint mechanism to squeeze and clamp the energy-absorbing element, so that the squeezing constraint mechanism squeezes and clamps the energy-absorbing element.

[0032] The control mechanism controls the energy-absorbing element to extend to the corresponding length based on the calculated extension length, in order to prepare for a collision with the vehicle in front.

[0033] When a collision occurs, the energy-absorbing element retracts and drives the pushing mechanism to push the push plate closer to the base. At the same time, the push plate pushes the squeezing constraint mechanism to squeeze and clamp the energy-absorbing element, so that the squeezing constraint mechanism squeezes and clamps the energy-absorbing element.

[0034] The formula for the energy E dissipated during the collision is:

[0035] E = 1 / 2Mv 相对 2 ;

[0036] In the formula, M represents the mass of one's own vehicle, and v相对 The relative speed of one's own vehicle before colliding with the vehicle in front;

[0037] The formula for the resistance force F of the entire compression energy absorption system of our vehicle is:

[0038] F = kMv 2 / 2s;

[0039] In the formula, k is the dynamic correction coefficient, v 己 s represents the speed of our vehicle; s represents the effective deformation distance of our vehicle's compression energy absorption system.

[0040] The formula for the extension length L of the energy-absorbing element is as follows:

[0041] L = E / F.

[0042] The free-stroke adjustable compression energy absorption method of the present invention, by adopting the free-stroke adjustable compression energy absorption device as described above, breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in the existing energy absorption method. It does not require the energy absorption element to extend fully, ensuring the stability of the energy absorption element in its axial direction, ensuring that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the vehicle body bearing capacity, and can fully absorb energy to achieve stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy.

[0043] Other beneficial effects of the present invention will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a compression-type energy-absorbing device with freely adjustable stroke, as shown in an embodiment of this application, when it is in its retracted normal state.

[0045] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the freely adjustable compression energy absorption device after the motor module has been removed.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a compression-type energy-absorbing device with freely adjustable stroke shown in an embodiment of this application, when it is in the extended energy-absorbing state.

[0047] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the freely adjustable compression energy absorption device after the motor module has been removed.

[0048] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the base shown in one embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the base according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an assembly consisting of an energy-absorbing element and a compression constraint mechanism, as shown in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the force exerted on the energy-absorbing element described in an embodiment of this application when it is impacted and compressed.

[0052] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the freely adjustable stroke extrusion energy absorption device according to another embodiment of this application, after removing the motor module;

[0053] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a freely adjustable compression energy absorption system in a retracted state, as shown in an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption system shown in an embodiment of this application in its extended state;

[0055] Figure 12 Energy absorption curves for installing a conventional energy absorption system on an existing vehicle;

[0056] Figure 13 An energy absorption curve diagram of adding a stroke-adjustable compression energy absorption system according to an embodiment of this application to an existing vehicle.

[0057] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]

[0058] 100. An adjustable-stroke compression-type energy absorption device;

[0059] 10-Base; 11-Seat perforation; 12-Wedge groove; 13-Guide limiting groove;

[0060] 20-Push plate;

[0061] 30 - Energy-absorbing element; 31 - Collision end; 32 - Non-collision end; 33 - Step surface; 331 - Guide section; 332 - Non-guide section;

[0062] 40 - Extrusion constraint mechanism; 41 - Constraint block; 42 - Push block assembly; 421 - Connecting plate; 422 - Rotating shaft;

[0063] 50 - Pushing mechanism; 51 - Rack; 52 - Motor module; 521 - Motor; 522 - Gear; 53 - Connecting block;

[0064] 60 - Elastic structure; 61 - Guide rod; 611 - Stop; 62 - Spring;

[0065] 200-Bumper;

[0066] 300-Longitudinal beam structure. Detailed Implementation

[0067] To make the technical problems, solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, a detailed description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention. Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of this invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0068] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0069] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a locking connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0070] This invention provides a compression-type energy-absorbing device with freely adjustable stroke, which can be used for collision protection of automobiles, trains, ships, robots, or other equipment requiring collision protection. The compression-type energy-absorbing device can first predict the collision risk and the collision energy absorption, decide whether to enter the extended energy-absorbing state from the retracted normal state based on the predicted collision risk, adjust the energy absorption stroke according to the predicted collision energy absorption, and return to the retracted normal state from the extended energy-absorbing state after the collision risk is eliminated.

[0071] Please see Figures 1 to 9 The present invention provides a compression-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke, comprising a base 10, a push plate 20, an energy absorption element 30, a compression constraint mechanism 40, a pushing mechanism 50, a detection structure (not shown in the figure), and a control mechanism (not shown in the figure).

[0072] like Figure 2The base 10 has a seat perforation 11; the push plate 20 is located on one side of the base 10 along the axial direction of the seat perforation 11 and is positioned near the deeper end of the wedge-shaped groove 12; the energy-absorbing element 30 has a collision end 311 and a non-collision end 312 arranged opposite to each other, and the energy-absorbing element can slide through the seat perforation 11 and the base plate 20; the pushing mechanism 50 is connected to the energy-absorbing element 30 and the push plate 20 respectively, and is used to push the energy-absorbing element 30 and the push plate 20; the detection structure is used to monitor external objects; the control mechanism is electrically connected to the pushing mechanism 50 and the detection structure, and predicts the collision risk and collision energy absorption based on the detection signal of the detection structure, and controls the pushing mechanism 50 to push the energy-absorbing element 30 to the desired position when a collision risk is predicted. The energy-absorbing stroke position; the compression constraint mechanism 40 is located in the wedge groove 12 and connected to the push plate 20. When the energy-absorbing element 30 is impacted, the energy-absorbing element 30 is pushed by the impacting object to drive the push mechanism 50 to drive the push plate 20 toward the base 10. At the same time, the push plate 20 pushes the compression constraint mechanism 40 to press against the energy-absorbing element 30 through the push block assembly 42. The compression constraint mechanism 40 compresses the energy-absorbing element 30 to constrain its movement, ensuring that the energy-absorbing element 30 can fully absorb the energy generated by the impact; the elastic structure 60 connects the push plate 20 and the base 10, and is used to drive the push plate 20 to automatically reset when the energy-absorbing element 30 is not impacted, so that the compression constraint mechanism 30 can move away from the compression energy-absorbing element 30.

[0073] The extrusion-type energy-absorbing device of the present invention has two states: a retracted normal state when not impacted and an energy-absorbing extended state when impacted. In the retracted normal state, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the compression constraint mechanism 30 is positioned away from the energy-absorbing element 30, while the push plate 20 is positioned away from the base 10 under the elastic force of the elastic structure 60. The detection structure monitors the status of the vehicle in front and the vehicle on its own side in real time and sends the detected information to the control mechanism. The control mechanism analyzes and predicts whether there is a collision risk based on the information detected by the detection structure. If a collision risk is detected, the control mechanism promptly controls the push mechanism 50 to drive the energy-absorbing element 30 to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position to meet the collision with the external object. During the collision, if... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the energy-absorbing element 30, driven by the force, causes the pushing mechanism 50 to push the push plate 20 to move towards the base 10, overcoming the elastic force of the elastic structure 60. Simultaneously, the push plate 20 also pushes the compression constraint mechanism 40 to press against the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30, thus compressing the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30 and constraining its movement. This ensures that the energy-absorbing element 30 can fully absorb the energy generated by the collision, achieving the purpose of protecting the vehicle and its occupants. The energy absorption capacity of the energy-absorbing element 30 is directly proportional to the stress distribution range when the energy-absorbing element is compressed. Figure 9As can be seen, with different extension lengths of the energy-absorbing element 30, the position of the compression constraint mechanism 40 compressing the energy-absorbing element 30 also varies, resulting in different stress distribution ranges and energy absorption capacities for the energy-absorbing element 30. The stress distribution range of the energy-absorbing element 30 increases with the extension length of the energy-absorbing element 30, which in turn increases the energy absorption capacity of the energy-absorbing element 30 with increasing extension length. This allows the energy absorption capacity of the energy-absorbing element 30 to be adjusted accordingly based on the predicted collision force. Furthermore, in this invention, it can be seen that the force used by the control mechanism to drive the push plate 20 to push the compression constraint mechanism 30 against the energy-absorbing element 30 during a collision is provided by the collision force experienced by the energy-absorbing element 30, rather than by the energy consumed by the push mechanism 50, thus reducing energy consumption.

[0074] The extrusion-type energy absorption device of the present invention breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in existing energy absorption methods. It does not require the energy absorption element 30 to extend fully, ensuring the stability of the energy absorption element 30 in its axial direction, which is not prone to bending deformation. This ensures that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the vehicle body bearing capacity, and can fully absorb energy to achieve stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy. Moreover, in the present invention, the movement of the energy absorption element 30 and the force of the push plate 20 pushing the extrusion constraint mechanism 40 to press against the energy absorption element 30 are both provided by the push mechanism 50. In addition to consuming electrical energy to drive the movement of the energy absorption element 30, the force used by the push mechanism 50 to drive the extrusion constraint mechanism 40 to press against the energy absorption element 30 is provided by the collision force received by the energy absorption element 30, and does not consume electrical energy. Therefore, the energy consumption of the extrusion-type energy absorption device of the present invention is also very low.

[0075] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, a wedge-shaped groove 12 is provided on the wall of the through hole 11. The depth of the wedge-shaped groove 12 gradually decreases along the direction from the push plate 20 to the base 10. The compression constraint mechanism 40 includes a constraint block 41 and a push block assembly 42 that movably connects the push plate 20 and the constraint block 41. The wedge-shaped groove 12 ensures that when the push plate 20 pushes the compression constraint mechanism 40, the constraint block 41 of the compression constraint mechanism 40 is stably pressed against the energy-absorbing element 30 under the guidance of the wedge-shaped groove 12, and the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30 is compressed.

[0076] Furthermore, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, there are at least two wedge-shaped grooves 12 and at least two compression constraint mechanisms 40. The wedge-shaped grooves 12 and the compression constraint mechanisms 40 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The wedge-shaped grooves 12 are evenly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the seat perforation 11, allowing the compression constraint mechanisms 40 to uniformly compress and constrain the energy-absorbing element 30, achieving a better constraint effect on the energy-absorbing element 30. In this embodiment, the number of wedge-shaped grooves 12 and at least three compression constraint mechanisms 40 are selected. In other feasible embodiments, the number of wedge-shaped grooves 12 and at least three compression constraint mechanisms 40 can be selected based on the cross-sectional size of the energy-absorbing element 30 and the size of the constraint block 41.

[0077] In one embodiment of this application, the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30 is smoothly disposed, and the constraint block 41 clamps and constrains the energy-absorbing element 30 by extruding a deformable concave surface on the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30.

[0078] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the surface of the non-collision end 32 of the energy-absorbing element 30 is provided with a stepped surface 33 corresponding to the constraint block 41. The stepped surface 33 has a guide section 331 and a non-guide section 332. The distance from the guide section 331 to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element 30 gradually decreases in the direction from the collision end 31 to the non-collision end 32. The non-guide section 332 is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element 30. The step surface 33 can reduce the cross-sectional size of the non-collision end 32, so that the energy-absorbing element 30 can pass quickly and smoothly through the seat hole 11 of the base 10 and the plate hole 21 of the push plate 20 during assembly. On the other hand, when the energy-absorbing element 30 extends to its maximum stroke, the non-collision end 32 is located in the seat hole 11, and the constraint block 41 can move smoothly to the non-guide section 332 under the guidance of the guide section 331. When the energy-absorbing element 30 is impacted, the constraint block 41 presses against the non-guide section 332 and moves towards the guide section 331, also squeezing the guide section 331. When the energy-absorbing element 30 moves to its maximum stroke position, the impact force it experiences is very large. If the energy-absorbing element 30 is limited by simply extruding a deformable indentation on its surface, the constraint effect may not be very good. By using the constraint block 41 to compress the non-guide section 332 and guide section 331 of the step surface 33, the constraint block 41 can generate a greater constraint force on the energy-absorbing element 30. After the non-collision end 32 of the energy-absorbing element 30 enters the seat hole 11 of the base 10, the energy-absorbing element 30 can be better constrained, ensuring that the energy-absorbing element 30 can fully absorb the impact energy.

[0079] In other feasible implementations, stepped surface assemblies can be sequentially arranged on the outer surface of the energy-absorbing element 30 along its axial direction. These stepped surface assemblies include the stepped surfaces 33 as described above, with each stepped surface 33 component corresponding to a constraint block 41. Since the stepped surfaces 33 are not continuously positioned along the axial direction of the energy-absorbing element 30, and the energy absorption stroke position analyzed by the controller may fall between two stepped surfaces 33, to ensure effective energy absorption, the control mechanism can drive the pushing mechanism 50 to extend the energy-absorbing element 30 onto the stepped surface 33 with the longer energy absorption stroke.

[0080] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element 30 is a hollow tube structure. Because the interior of the energy-absorbing element 30 is hollow, compared to a solid energy-absorbing element 30, the resistance to the hand when the constraint block 41 of the compression constraint mechanism 40 compresses the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30 is smaller. This makes it easier for the constraint block 41 to compress a concave surface on the surface of the energy-absorbing element 30, thus ensuring the constraint of the compression constraint mechanism 40 on the energy-absorbing element 30.

[0081] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the constraint block 41 is a roller. Choosing a roller for the constraint block 41 reduces the frictional force on the surface of the wedge-shaped groove 12, allowing the constraint block 41 to be quickly pushed towards the energy-absorbing element 30. In other feasible embodiments, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the constraint block 41 can be set as a pressure plate, and the side of the pressure plate facing the energy-absorbing element 30 is an arc-shaped surface. Compared with the roller type constraint block 41, this pressure plate type constraint block 41 has a larger contact area with the energy-absorbing element 30 and generates greater friction. Although clamping the energy-absorbing element 30 is more difficult due to the need to rub the outer surface of the energy-absorbing element 30, the structural strength is more reliable when the energy-absorbing element 30 is squeezed by a collision. In addition, the friction with the outer surface of the energy-absorbing element 30 during the collision can also absorb some of the collision energy.

[0082] Preferably, the energy-absorbing element 30 is made of aluminum alloy, steel or carbon fiber composite material; the constraint block 41 is made of steel or aluminum alloy.

[0083] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the pusher assembly 42 includes two opposing connecting plates 421 and a rotating shaft 422. One end of the two connecting plates 421 is rotatably connected to both ends of the rotating shaft 422, and the other ends of the two connecting plates 421 are respectively rotatably connected to both ends of the constraint block 41. This pusher assembly 42 can stably press the constraint block 41 against the energy-absorbing element 30. Of course, the structure of the pusher assembly 42 is not limited to this; other structures that can stably press the constraint block 41 against the energy-absorbing element 30 are also applicable.

[0084] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the pushing mechanism 50 includes a rack 51 and a motor module 52. The rack 51 is located on one side of the base 10 along a direction perpendicular to the axis of the seat through hole 11. The rack 51 can slide through the push plate 20 and is connected to the energy-absorbing element 30. The motor 521 is mounted on the push plate 20, and the gear 522 is connected to the output shaft of the motor 521 and meshes with the rack 51. Figure 5 As shown, the base 10 is provided with a guide limiting groove 13 corresponding to the rack 51. The rack 51 can slide through the guide limiting groove 13, and the guide limiting groove 13 can ensure that the rack 51 makes stable linear motion.

[0085] The operation of the propulsion mechanism 50 will now be explained in detail. When the energy-absorbing element 30 needs to extend to meet the collision, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the motor 521 drives the gear 522 to rotate in a direction that drives the energy-absorbing element 30 to extend from the non-collision end 32 to the collision end 31. The rotating gear 522 drives the rack 51 to push the collision end 31 of the energy-absorbing element 30 to extend. When the energy-absorbing element 30 extends to the specified stroke, the control mechanism controls the motor 521 to stop working, the gear 522 to stop rotating, and the energy-absorbing element 30 also stops moving, preparing to receive the collision of an external object; when the collision end 31 of the energy-absorbing element 30 collides with an external object, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, under the impact force, the energy-absorbing element 30 moves along the rack 51 from the collision end 31 to the non-collision end 32. Because the rack 51 is connected to the energy-absorbing element 30 and meshes with the gear 522 of the motor module 52, the rack 51 can drive the motor module 52 to push the push plate 20 towards the base 10 under the push of the energy-absorbing element 30. This allows the push plate 20 to push the constraint block 41 against the energy-absorbing element 30 and compress and constrain the energy-absorbing element 30, enabling the energy-absorbing element 30 to fully absorb energy. The entire pushing mechanism 50 has a simple structure and low cost. Whether driving the rack 51 to push the energy-absorbing element 30 or pushing the push plate 20 towards the base 10, only one motor 521 is used.

[0086] Furthermore, the rack 51 and the energy-absorbing element 30 are connected by a connecting block 53, which is located between the end of the rack 51 and the end of the energy-absorbing element 30. To ensure the stability of the connection between the rack 51 and the energy-absorbing element 30, it is preferable that the collision end 31 and the non-collision end 32 of the rack 51 are connected to both ends of the energy-absorbing element 30 respectively through the connecting block 53.

[0087] In other feasible embodiments, an intermediate transmission structure can be provided between the motor 521 and the gear 522 to achieve gear deceleration or acceleration. The intermediate transmission structure can be a gearbox structure, a pulley plus gear structure, or a sprocket plus gear structure, without specific limitations.

[0088] The detection structure can be mounted on the base 10, the push plate 20, or other structures of the vehicle. If mounted on the base 10, the detection structure is positioned on the side of the base 10 facing the push plate 20, with a through hole on the push plate 20 corresponding to the detection structure, allowing the detection structure to detect foreign objects. In one embodiment of this application, the detection structure includes a vehicle speed detector and a distance sensor. The vehicle speed detector detects the speed of the vehicle and the vehicle in front, while the distance sensor detects the distance between the vehicle and the vehicle in front. When the distance sensor detects that the distance between the vehicle and the vehicle in front is less than a preset value, the control mechanism determines that there is a collision risk. Based on the information obtained from the detection structure, the relative speed between the vehicle and the vehicle in front is calculated. Then, based on the relative speed, the energy dissipated by the collision is calculated. Finally, based on the energy dissipated by the collision and the impedance of the entire compression energy absorption system of the vehicle, the extension length of the energy-absorbing element is calculated. Finally, the control mechanism controls the push mechanism 50 to drive the energy-absorbing element 30 to extend to the corresponding energy-absorbing stroke position based on the calculated extension length.

[0089] In one embodiment of this application, the control mechanism is disposed on the base 10, preferably within the base 10. In other feasible embodiments, the control mechanism may also be disposed on the push plate 20, or at other locations on the vehicle.

[0090] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the elastic structure 60 includes a guide rod 61 and a spring 62. One end of the guide rod 61 is connected to the base 10, and the other end of the guide rod 61 passes through the push plate 20 and is provided with a stop block 611. The stop block 611 is used to prevent the push plate 20 from slipping off the guide rod 61. The guide rod 61 and the push plate 20 are slidably disposed. The spring 62 is sleeved on the guide rod 61 and is located between the base 10 and the push plate 20. The guide rod 61 is used to guide the movement of the push plate 20, enabling the push plate to make stable linear movements. The spring 62 is used to provide a thrust for the push plate 20 to return to its original position.

[0091] Furthermore, such as Figure 6As shown, the base 10 has a mounting hole 14 corresponding to the guide rod 61. The mounting hole 14 includes a plug-in section 141 and a spring placement section 142. The spring placement section 142 is located near the push plate 20. The end of the guide rod 61 away from the stop block 611 passes through the spring placement section 142 and is plugged into the plug-in section 141. The spring 62 is located in the spring placement section 142. After the push plate 20 presses against the base 10, the spring 62 can be fully squeezed into the spring placement section 142.

[0092] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 The present invention provides a stroke-adjustable compression energy absorption system, comprising a bumper 200, a longitudinal beam structure 300, and a stroke-adjustable compression energy absorption device 100 as described above. The base of the stroke-adjustable compression energy absorption device 100 is mounted on the longitudinal beam structure 300, and the collision end of the energy absorption element of the stroke-adjustable compression energy absorption device 100 is connected to the bumper 200.

[0093] In one embodiment of this application, there are two freely adjustable compression energy absorption devices 100, and the two freely adjustable compression energy absorption devices 100 are respectively connected to both ends of the bumper 200.

[0094] This freely adjustable compression energy absorption system has the following characteristics: Figure 10 The retraction normal state shown and as Figure 11 The energy absorption and extension state shown is as follows. Figure 10 It describes that when a vehicle passes through a detection structure without a predicted risk, the stroke-adjustable compression energy-absorbing device 100 installed on the longitudinal beam structure 300 is in a retracted state. Figure 11 The description describes how, when a vehicle senses an impending collision risk through a detection structure, a freely adjustable compression energy-absorbing device 100 mounted on the longitudinal beam structure 300 is rapidly activated. Driven by the motor module of the actuation mechanism, the energy-absorbing element pushes the bumper 200 forward with an extremely short response time to cushion the impact of the vehicle in front. This system can intervene instantaneously before a collision occurs, actively absorbing some of the impact energy and significantly reducing the impact force on the vehicle's main structure and occupants. Simultaneously, the system's rapid response and precise deployment also help improve the vehicle's safety protection capabilities in sudden accidents, demonstrating the advanced nature and high reliability of intelligent vehicles in the field of active safety.

[0095] The present invention also provides a compression-type energy absorption method with freely adjustable stroke, comprising the following steps:

[0096] S10, Provides a compression energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke as described above.

[0097] S20: The detection structure detects the speed of its own vehicle and the vehicle in front of it in real time, as well as the distance between its own vehicle and the vehicle in front of it, and transmits the obtained information to the control mechanism.

[0098] S30. The control mechanism calculates the emergency braking distance and braking deceleration based on the real-time speed of its own vehicle. When the calculated emergency braking distance is greater than the detected distance between its own vehicle and the vehicle in front, a collision risk is determined. The control mechanism calculates the relative speed between its own vehicle and the vehicle in front before the collision, calculates the energy that needs to be dissipated in the event of a collision based on the relative speed between its own vehicle and the vehicle in front, and then calculates the extension length of the energy-absorbing element 30 based on the energy dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire energy-absorbing structure of its own vehicle.

[0099] S40. Based on the calculated extension length of the energy-absorbing element 30, the control mechanism controls the pushing mechanism 50 to push the energy-absorbing element 30 to extend to the corresponding length to meet the collision of the vehicle in front.

[0100] S50. When a collision occurs, the energy-absorbing element 30 retracts and drives the pushing mechanism 50 to push the push plate 20 closer to the base 10. At the same time, the push plate 20 pushes the compression constraint mechanism 40 to squeeze the energy-absorbing element 30, so that the compression constraint mechanism 40 squeezes and clamps the energy-absorbing element 30.

[0101] The formula for the energy E dissipated during the collision is:

[0102] E = Mv 相对 2 / 2;

[0103] In the formula, M represents the mass of one's own vehicle, and v 相对 The relative speed of one's own vehicle before colliding with the vehicle in front;

[0104] The formula for the resistance force F of the entire energy-absorbing structure of one's own vehicle is:

[0105] F = kMv c 2 / 2s;

[0106] In the formula, k is the dynamic correction coefficient, v c s is the speed of our vehicle; s is the effective deformation distance of the energy-absorbing structure of our vehicle.

[0107] The formula for the extension length L of the energy-absorbing element is as follows:

[0108] L = E / F = (v 相对 / v c ) 2 .(s / k).

[0109] In the test of the extrusion-type energy absorption device of the present invention, the following expression can be obtained:

[0110] The expression for the collision energy absorption of the energy-absorbing element 30 under the compression and clamping state of the constraint block 41 is as follows:

[0111]

[0112] In the formula, M represents the vehicle mass; F represents the vehicle body load capacity; l min L1 represents the minimum compression stroke; L1 represents the initial compression stroke of the vehicle's energy-absorbing structure; T represents the total response time during the collision process; t represents the response time during the collision process.

[0113] Active deformation feature expression:

[0114]

[0115] In the formula, L eff L1 indicates the effective compression stroke; L2 indicates the active extension compression stroke of the vehicle's energy-absorbing structure.

[0116] Impact force expression:

[0117] F(l) <min[Ma c ,Mv c / t,π 2 EI / (cl eff ) 2 ];

[0118] In the formula, a c Indicates vehicle acceleration; v c E represents the vehicle's speed; I represents the energy; and c represents the moment of inertia.

[0119] Figure 12 The energy absorption curves are for conventional energy absorption devices installed on existing vehicles. Figure 13 To illustrate the energy absorption curve of adding the freely adjustable compression energy absorption device of this invention to an existing vehicle, from... Figure 12 and Figure 13 Comparing the curves, the energy absorption curve of the extrusion energy absorption device in this invention is more controllable and the energy absorption effect is more stable. The extrusion energy absorption method of this invention breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in the existing energy absorption methods, ensuring that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the vehicle body bearing capacity, and can fully absorb energy, realize the stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy, and enable the effective deformation stroke L1 to jump to L2 before the collision.

[0120] The above description represents the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A compression-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke, characterized in that, include: The base has a seat perforation inside; The push plate is located on one side of the base along the axial direction of the through hole in the seat; An energy-absorbing element can slide through the seat perforation and the push plate; The detection structure is used to monitor vehicles ahead and friendly vehicles. The pushing mechanism is connected to both the energy-absorbing element and the push plate. A control mechanism, electrically connected to the pushing mechanism and the detection structure, is used to predict collision risk and collision energy absorption based on the detection signal of the detection structure, and when a collision risk is predicted, control the pushing mechanism to push the energy-absorbing element to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position. An extrusion constraint mechanism is provided inside the base and connected to the push plate. During a collision, the energy-absorbing element pushes the push mechanism under the impact force, causing the push plate to move toward the base. At the same time, the push plate pushes the extrusion constraint mechanism to press against the energy-absorbing element, thus extruding and constraining the energy-absorbing element. An elastic structure connects the push plate and the base; The pushing mechanism includes a rack and a motor module. The rack is located on one side of the base along a direction perpendicular to the axis of the seat hole. The rack can slide through the push plate and is connected to the energy-absorbing element. The motor module includes a motor and a gear. The motor is mounted on the push plate, and the gear is connected to the output shaft of the motor and meshes with the rack. The wall of the perforation of the seat is provided with a wedge-shaped groove, and the depth of the wedge-shaped groove gradually decreases from the push plate to the base; the compression constraint mechanism includes a constraint block and a push block assembly, and the push block assembly is rotatably connected to the push plate and the constraint block respectively; The energy E that needs to be dissipated during the collision is given by the formula: E=Mv 相对 2 / 2; In the formula, M represents the mass of one's own vehicle, and v 相对 The relative speed of one's own vehicle before colliding with the vehicle in front; The formula for the resistance force F of the entire compression energy absorption system of our vehicle is: F=kMv 2 / 2s; In the formula, k is the dynamic correction coefficient, v 己 s represents the speed of our vehicle; s represents the effective deformation distance of our vehicle's compression energy absorption system. The formula for the extension length L of the energy-absorbing element is as follows: L=E / F.

2. The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing element is a hollow tube structure.

3. The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of wedge grooves and the number of compression constraint mechanisms are both at least two, and the wedge grooves and compression constraint mechanisms are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence. The wedge grooves are evenly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the seat hole.

4. The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing element has a collision end and a non-collision end; the surface of the non-collision end of the energy-absorbing element is provided with a stepped surface corresponding to the constraint block one by one, the stepped surface has a guide section and a non-guide section, the distance from the guide section to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element gradually decreases in the direction from the collision end to the non-collision end, and the non-guide section is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element.

5. The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing element has a collision end and a non-collision end; a stepped surface combination structure is sequentially arranged on the outer surface of the energy-absorbing element along the axial direction of the energy-absorbing element. The stepped surface combination structure includes a stepped surface, and each stepped surface of the stepped surface combination structure is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the constraint block; the stepped surface has a guide section and a non-guide section, the distance from the guide section to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element gradually decreases in the direction from the collision end to the non-collision end, and the non-guide section is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element.

6. The freely adjustable stroke compression energy absorption device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The constraint block is a roller; or, the constraint block is a pressure plate, and the side of the pressure plate facing the energy-absorbing element is an arc-shaped surface.

7. A compression-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, characterized in that, The device includes a bumper, a longitudinal beam structure, and a stroke-adjustable compression energy-absorbing device as described in any one of claims 1-6, wherein the base of the stroke-adjustable compression energy-absorbing device is mounted on the longitudinal beam, and the collision end of the energy-absorbing element of the stroke-adjustable compression energy-absorbing device is connected to the bumper.

8. A compression-type energy absorption method with freely adjustable stroke, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Provides the extrusion energy absorption system as described in claim 7; The detection structure detects the speed of its own vehicle and the vehicle in front of it in real time, as well as the distance between its own vehicle and the vehicle in front of it, and transmits the information to the control mechanism. The control mechanism calculates the emergency braking distance and braking deceleration based on the real-time speed of the vehicle. When the calculated emergency braking distance is greater than the detected distance between the vehicle and the vehicle in front, a collision risk is determined. The control mechanism calculates the relative speed between the vehicle and the vehicle in front before the collision, calculates the energy that needs to be dissipated in the collision based on the relative speed between the vehicle and the vehicle in front, and then calculates the extension length of the energy-absorbing element based on the energy dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire compression energy-absorbing system of the vehicle. The control mechanism controls the energy-absorbing element to extend to the corresponding length based on the calculated extension length, in order to prevent a collision with the vehicle in front. When a collision occurs, the energy-absorbing element retracts and drives the pushing mechanism to push the push plate closer to the base. At the same time, the push plate pushes the squeezing constraint mechanism to squeeze and clamp the energy-absorbing element, so that the squeezing constraint mechanism squeezes and clamps the energy-absorbing element. The control mechanism controls the energy-absorbing element to extend to the corresponding length based on the calculated extension length, in order to prepare for a collision with the vehicle in front. When a collision occurs, the energy-absorbing element retracts and drives the pushing mechanism to push the push plate closer to the base. At the same time, the push plate pushes the squeezing constraint mechanism to squeeze and clamp the energy-absorbing element, so that the squeezing constraint mechanism squeezes and clamps the energy-absorbing element.

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