Cutting energy absorbing device, system and method with free travel adjustment

Abstract

The application discloses a cutting energy-absorbing device, system and method with freely adjustable stroke, wherein a control mechanism of the cutting energy-absorbing device can predict collision risk and collision energy-absorbing amount according to detection signals of a detection structure, and when predicting collision risk, the control mechanism controls a pushing mechanism to push an energy-absorbing element to slide to a required energy-absorbing stroke position, and after the energy-absorbing element is moved to the position, the control mechanism controls a cutting constraint mechanism to cut the energy-absorbing element to form a recessed groove, so as to constrain the movement of the energy-absorbing element. The application breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in the existing energy-absorbing method, can calculate the length that the energy-absorbing element needs to extend according to the predicted collision risk, does not need the energy-absorbing element to extend completely, guarantees the stability of the energy-absorbing element in the axial direction and prevents the energy-absorbing element from being bent and deformed, guarantees that the dynamic collision force of the vehicle is always less than the bearing capacity of the vehicle body, can fully absorb energy, and realizes stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of vehicle collision avoidance and energy absorption, specifically to a cutting-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 cutting-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, adjust the energy absorption stroke according to the predicted collision energy absorption, and return to the retracted normal state from the extended energy absorption state after the collision risk is eliminated.

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

[0007] Base;

[0008] An energy-absorbing element, which can slide through the base, has a collision end and a non-collision end arranged opposite to each other;

[0009] A cutting constraint mechanism, installed in the base, is used to constrain the movement of the energy-absorbing element by cutting a recessed groove on the energy-absorbing element;

[0010] A pushing mechanism is mounted on the base and connected to the energy-absorbing element, used to push the energy-absorbing element to perform linear motion;

[0011] A detection structure, mounted on the base, is used to monitor collision risk information;

[0012] The control mechanism is electrically connected to the pushing mechanism, the detection structure, and the cutting constraint mechanism. It is used to predict the collision risk and collision energy absorption based on the detection signal of the detection structure. When a collision risk is predicted, it controls the pushing mechanism to push the energy-absorbing element to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position. After the energy-absorbing element moves into place, it controls the cutting constraint mechanism to cut the energy-absorbing element to form a recessed groove.

[0013] The present invention relates to a cutting-type energy-absorbing device with freely adjustable stroke. It predicts collision risk and energy absorption based on detection signals from a detection structure. When a collision risk is predicted, it controls the pushing mechanism to slide the energy-absorbing element to the desired energy-absorbing stroke position. After the energy-absorbing element is in place, it controls the cutting constraint mechanism to cut a groove in the energy-absorbing element to constrain its movement. This invention overcomes the limitations of deformation stroke in existing energy-absorbing methods. It can calculate the required extension length of the energy-absorbing element based on the predicted collision risk, eliminating the need for the element to fully extend. This ensures the stability of the energy-absorbing element, preventing bending deformation along its axis, and guarantees that the dynamic impact force of the vehicle is always less than the vehicle's load-bearing capacity, enabling sufficient energy absorption and stable dissipation of collision kinetic energy.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element is either solid or hollow.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the pushing mechanism includes a motor module mounted on the base, a gear connected to the motor module, and a rack meshing with the gear. The rack is fixed to the energy-absorbing element, extends along the axial direction of the energy-absorbing element, and can slide through the base.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the cutting constraint mechanism includes at least two cutting constraint modules, which are uniformly distributed in a ring around the axis of the energy-absorbing element.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, the cutting constraint module includes a linear push module, a constraint block rotatably connected to the base, and a push block structure that links the linear push module and the constraint block. The constraint block is rotatably disposed in the accommodating cavity of the base. The constraint block has a block connecting end and a cutting end. The block connecting end is rotatably connected to the linear push module. The cutting end is disposed toward the energy-absorbing element. The push block structure is used to drive the constraint block to perform a rotational motion that cuts the energy-absorbing element under the push of the linear push module.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the cutting end of the constraint block is triangularly arranged, and the size of the cutting end gradually decreases in the direction from the block connection end to the cutting end.

[0019] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element has an isosceles trapezoidal cross-section and has a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side connected end to end. The widths of the first side, the second side, and the third side are all equal and greater than the width of the fourth side. The number of cutting constraint modules is three, which are respectively arranged corresponding to the first side, the second side, and the third side. The rack of the pushing mechanism is mounted on the fourth side.

[0020] In one embodiment of this application, the surface of the non-collision end of the energy-absorbing element is provided with a stepped surface corresponding to the constraint block. The stepped surface has a guide segment and a non-guide segment. The guide segment is bent in the direction from the non-collision end to the collision end, and the non-guide segment is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element.

[0021] The present invention also discloses a cutting energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, including a bumper, a longitudinal beam structure, and a cutting energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke as described above. The base of the cutting energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke is mounted on the longitudinal beam structure, and the collision end of the energy absorption element of the cutting energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke is connected to the bumper.

[0022] The freely adjustable cutting energy absorption system of the present invention, by adopting the cutting energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke 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.

[0023] This invention also discloses a cutting-type energy absorption method with freely adjustable stroke, comprising the following steps:

[0024] Provides a cutting-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, as described above;

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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 based on the energy dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire cutting energy-absorbing system of its own vehicle.

[0027] The control mechanism controls the pushing mechanism to push the energy-absorbing element to extend by the corresponding length based on the calculated extension length of the energy-absorbing element;

[0028] After the energy-absorbing element extends into position, the control mechanism immediately controls the cutting constraint mechanism to squeeze out a groove on the energy-absorbing element to constrain its movement in order to prepare for a collision with the vehicle in front.

[0029] The formula for the energy E dissipated during the collision is:

[0030] E = Mv 相对 2 / 2;

[0031] 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;

[0032] The formula for the resistance force F of the entire cutting energy absorption system of our vehicle is:

[0033] F = kMv c 2 / 2s;

[0034] In the formula, k is the dynamic correction coefficient, v c s represents the speed of our vehicle; s represents the effective deformation distance of our vehicle's cutting energy absorption system.

[0035] The formula for the extension length L of the energy-absorbing element is as follows:

[0036] L = E / F = (v 相对 / v c )2 .(s / k).

[0037] The freely adjustable stroke cutting energy absorption method of the present invention, by adopting the freely adjustable stroke cutting 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.

[0038] Other beneficial effects of the present invention will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a cutting-type energy-absorbing device with freely adjustable stroke, as shown in an embodiment of this application, when it is in its retracted normal state.

[0040] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable-stroke cutting energy absorption device after the push mechanism has been removed.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a cutting-type energy-absorbing device with freely adjustable stroke, as shown in an embodiment of this application, when it is in the extended energy-absorbing state.

[0042] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable-stroke cutting energy absorption device after the push mechanism has been removed.

[0043] Figure 5 This is an enlarged view of the area circled A;

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the part circled A after the energy-absorbing element is impacted.

[0045] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a cutting constraint module according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an assembly consisting of an energy-absorbing element and a pushing mechanism, as shown in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 9 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an energy-absorbing element according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a cutting-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, as shown in an embodiment of the present invention, in its retracted state.

[0049] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a cutting-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, as shown in an embodiment of the present invention, in the extended energy absorption state.

[0050] Figure 12 Energy absorption curves for installing a conventional energy absorption system on an existing vehicle;

[0051] 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.

[0052] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]

[0053] 100-A cutting-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke;

[0054] 10-Base; 11-Protective groove; 12-Mounting groove; 13-Accommodating cavity;

[0055] 20 - Energy-absorbing element; 21 - Collision end; 22 - Non-collision end; 23 - Step surface; 231 - Guide section; 232 - Non-guide section; 24 - First side surface; 25 - Second side surface; 26 - Third side surface; 27 - Fourth side surface; 28 - Recessed groove;

[0056] 30-Push mechanism; 31-Rack; 32-Motor module; 33-Gear;

[0057] 40-Cutting constraint module; 41-Linear push module; 42-Constraint block; 421-Block connection end; 422-Cutting end; 423-Protrusion block; 43-Push rod;

[0058] 200-Bumper;

[0059] 300-Longitudinal beam structure. Detailed Implementation

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] This invention provides a cutting-type energy-absorbing device 100 with freely adjustable stroke, which can be used for collision protection of automobiles, trains, ships, robots, or other equipment requiring collision protection. The cutting-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.

[0064] Please see Figures 1 to 9 The present invention provides a cutting-type energy absorption device 100 with freely adjustable stroke, comprising a base 10, an energy absorption element 20, a cutting constraint mechanism, a pushing mechanism 30, a detection structure (not shown in the figure), and a control mechanism (not shown in the figure).

[0065] like Figure 1As shown, the energy-absorbing element 20 can slide through the base 10; the cutting constraint mechanism is installed inside the base 10 and is used to constrain the energy-absorbing element 20 by cutting a recess 28 on the energy-absorbing element 20; the pushing mechanism 30 is installed on the base 10 and connected to the energy-absorbing element 20, and is used to push the energy-absorbing element 20 to make linear motion; the detection structure is installed on the base 10 and is used to monitor collision risk information; the control mechanism is electrically connected to the pushing mechanism 30, the detection structure and the cutting constraint mechanism, and is used to predict the collision risk and collision energy absorption based on the detection signal of the detection structure. When a collision risk is predicted, the control mechanism 30 pushes the energy-absorbing element 20 to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position, and after the energy-absorbing element 20 moves into place, the control mechanism cuts the energy-absorbing element 20, so that the cutting constraint mechanism cuts a recess 28 on the energy-absorbing element 20. Figure 5 The recessed groove 28 shown is cut out. After the recessed groove 28 is cut out, the cutting part of the cutting constraint mechanism is located in the recessed groove 28. Under the constraint of the recessed groove 28, the cutting constraint mechanism can stably constrain the movement of the energy-absorbing element 20, ensuring that the energy-absorbing element 20 can fully absorb the energy generated by the impact.

[0066] The cutting-type energy-absorbing device of the present invention has two states: a retracted normal state when not impacted and an extended energy-absorbing state when impacted. In the retracted normal state, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cutting constraint mechanism does not compress the energy-absorbing element 20, and the energy-absorbing element 20 can slide relative to the base 10. The detection structure detects collision risk information in real time and sends the detected information to the control mechanism in real time. 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, such as... Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the control mechanism timely controls the pushing mechanism 30 to drive the energy-absorbing element 20 to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position. After the energy-absorbing element 20 moves into position, the control mechanism controls the cutting constraint mechanism to squeeze the energy-absorbing element 20, causing the cutting constraint mechanism to squeeze out energy on the energy-absorbing element 20. Figure 5 The recessed groove 28 shown is used to constrain the energy-absorbing element 20, thereby constraining the movement of the energy-absorbing element 20 and ensuring that the energy-absorbing element 20 can fully absorb the energy generated by the collision, so as to protect the vehicle and the safety of the people inside the vehicle.

[0067] Therefore, it can be seen that the cutting energy absorption device of the present invention breaks through the limitation of deformation stroke in the existing energy absorption method. It does not require the energy absorption element 20 to extend completely, ensuring the stability of the energy absorption element 20 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.

[0068] In one embodiment of this application, the energy-absorbing element 20 is solid. In other feasible embodiments, the energy-absorbing element 20 may also be hollow.

[0069] Furthermore, the energy-absorbing element 20 is made of aluminum alloy, steel or carbon fiber composite material.

[0070] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the driving mechanism 30 includes a motor module 32 mounted on the base 10, a gear 33 connected to the motor module 32, and a rack 31 meshing with the gear 33. The rack 31 is fixed to the energy-absorbing element 20, extends along the axial direction of the energy-absorbing element 20, and can slide through the base 10. This structural configuration of the driving mechanism 30, compared to other mechanisms used to drive the energy-absorbing element 20 to perform linear motion, can reduce the overall volume of the cutting energy-absorbing device, allowing the cutting energy-absorbing device to be miniaturized while maintaining energy absorption strength.

[0071] Optionally, the motor module 32 is a motor. In other feasible embodiments, an intermediate transmission structure can be provided between the motor and the gear 33 to realize the deceleration or acceleration of the gear 33. The intermediate transmission structure can be a gearbox structure, a pulley plus gear 33 structure, a sprocket plus gear 33 structure, or other structures, without specific limitations.

[0072] Optional, such as Figure 1 As shown, the motor module 32 is installed in the protective groove 11 provided in the base 10, and the protective groove 11 is located on the side of the base 10 near the non-collision end 22. By installing the motor module 32 in the protective groove 11 of the base 10, the base 10 can protect the motor from collision damage from external objects.

[0073] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the cutting constraint mechanism includes at least two cutting constraint modules 40, which are uniformly distributed in a ring around the axis of the energy-absorbing element 20. This arrangement ensures that the energy-absorbing element 20 is constrained by the cutting constraint mechanism, resulting in a more uniform energy stress distribution. For example, the cutting constraint mechanism may have three cutting constraint modules 40, which are uniformly distributed in a ring around the axis of the energy-absorbing element 20.

[0074] Furthermore, such as Figure 7As shown, the cutting constraint module 40 includes a linear push module 41, a constraint block 42 rotatably connected to the base 10, and a push block structure linking the linear push module 41 and the constraint block 42. The constraint block 42 is rotatably disposed within the accommodating cavity 13 of the base 10. The constraint block 42 has a block connecting end 421 and a cutting end 422. The block connecting end 421 is rotatably connected to the linear push module 41, and the cutting end 422 is positioned towards the energy-absorbing element 20. The push block structure is used to drive the constraint block 42 to rotate under the push of the linear push module 41. When the entire cutting energy-absorbing device is in its retracted state, the cutting end 422 of the constraint block 42 just contacts the energy-absorbing element 20, without restricting the movement of the energy-absorbing element 20, so that the push mechanism 30 can push the energy-absorbing element 20 to move linearly when the control mechanism predicts a collision hazard. After the control mechanism predicts a collision hazard and controls the push mechanism 30 to drive the energy-absorbing element 20 to the required energy-absorbing stroke, the control mechanism will immediately control the linear push module 41 to push the constraint block 42, so that the cutting end 422 of the constraint block 42 rotates in the direction of cutting the energy-absorbing element 20 until the cutting end 422 of the constraint block 42 cuts a groove 28 of a certain size on the energy-absorbing element 20.

[0075] Optionally, the constraint block 42 may be made of steel or aluminum alloy.

[0076] Optionally, the cutting end 422 of the constraint block 42 is triangular, and the size of the cutting end 422 gradually decreases from the block connection end 421 to the cutting end 422. By setting the cutting end 422 to be triangular, the cutting end 422 of the constraint block 42 can easily cut a groove on the energy-absorbing element 20. Figure 5 The recessed groove 28 shown is an example of this. During the impact, due to the constraint of the constraint block 42 on the energy-absorbing element 20, the constraint block 42 will cut into the energy-absorbing element 20 under the impact force. Figure 6 The shavings shown cause the energy-absorbing element 20 to deform again.

[0077] Optionally, the linear push module 41 can be an electromagnetic push rod or a cylinder, preferably an electromagnetic push rod. The electromagnetic push rod has a response block and a small structure, which can make the entire cutting energy absorption device more compact.

[0078] Because the base 10 has a certain thickness, in order to reduce the overall volume of the cutting-type energy absorption device, such as Figure 1 As shown, a portion of the linear drive module 41 can be installed in the mounting slot 12 corresponding to the base 10.

[0079] Optional, such as Figure 7As shown, the push block structure is a push rod 43. The two ends of the push rod 43 are rotatably connected to the output shaft of the linear push module 41 and the constraint block 42, respectively. The side of the constraint block 42 facing the linear push module 41 is provided with a protrusion 423 that is rotatably connected to the push rod 43.

[0080] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 8 As shown, the surface of the non-collision end 22 of the energy-absorbing element 20 is provided with a stepped surface 23 corresponding to the constraint block 42. The stepped surface 23 has a guide section 231 and a non-guide section 232. The guide section 231 is bent in the direction from the non-collision end 22 to the collision end 21, and the non-guide section 232 is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element 20. The step surface 23 can reduce the cross-sectional size of the non-collision end 22, so that the energy-absorbing element 20 can pass through the base 10 quickly and smoothly during assembly. On the other hand, when the energy-absorbing element 20 extends to its maximum stroke, the constraint block 42 moves onto the non-guide section 232. When the energy-absorbing element 20 is impacted, the cutting end 422 of the constraint block 42 rotates and cuts the non-guide section 232 and moves toward the guide section 231, also producing extrusion cutting on the guide section 231. When the energy-absorbing element 20 moves to its maximum stroke position, the impact force it experiences is very large. If the energy-absorbing element 20 is limited by simply cutting a groove 28 on its surface, the constraint effect may not be very good. By cutting the non-guide section 232 and guide section 231 of the step surface 23 by the constraint block 42, the constraint block 42 can generate a greater constraint force on the energy-absorbing element 20. After the non-collision end 22 of the energy-absorbing element 20 enters the base 10, it can better constrain the energy-absorbing element 20, ensuring that the energy-absorbing element 20 can fully absorb the impact energy corresponding to the maximum stroke position.

[0081] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 9 As shown, the cross-section of the energy-absorbing element 20 is an isosceles trapezoid. Furthermore, the energy-absorbing element 20 has a first side 24, a second side 25, a third side 26, and a fourth side 27 connected end-to-end. The widths of the first side 24, second side 25, and third side 26 are all equal and greater than the width of the fourth side 27. Three cutting constraint modules 40 are provided, corresponding to the first side 24, second side 25, and third side 26 respectively, and the rack 31 of the pushing mechanism 30 is mounted on the fourth side 27. This arrangement ensures that the energy-absorbing element 20 is well clamped by the cutting constraint mechanism, guaranteeing effective energy absorption upon collision, while also keeping the overall size of the cutting-type energy-absorbing device relatively small.

[0082] The detection structure can be mounted on the base 10 or at other locations on the vehicle. If mounted on the base 10, it is preferred to mount the detection structure on the side of the base 10 facing the collision end 21 of the energy-absorbing element 20. In one embodiment of this application, the detection structure includes a vehicle speed detector and a distance sensor. The vehicle speed detector is used to detect the speed of the vehicle itself and the speed of the vehicle in front, and the distance sensor is used to detect the distance between the vehicle itself and the vehicle in front. When the distance sensor detects that the distance between the vehicle itself and the vehicle in front is less than a preset value, the control mechanism determines that there is a risk of collision. Based on the information obtained from the detection structure, the relative speed between the vehicle itself and the vehicle in front is calculated. Then, based on the relative speed, the energy that needs to be dissipated in the collision is calculated. Then, based on the energy that needs to be dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire cutting energy-absorbing system of the vehicle itself, the extension length of the energy-absorbing element 20 is calculated. Finally, the control mechanism controls the push mechanism 30 to drive the energy-absorbing element 20 to extend to the corresponding energy-absorbing stroke position according to the calculated extension length.

[0083] In one embodiment of this application, the control mechanism is disposed on the base 10, preferably within the base 10, to be protected by the base 10. In other feasible embodiments, the control mechanism may also be mounted on other structures of the vehicle.

[0084] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 This invention provides a stroke-adjustable cutting energy absorption system, comprising a bumper 200, a longitudinal beam structure 300, and a stroke-adjustable cutting energy absorption device 100 as described above. The base 10 of the stroke-adjustable cutting energy absorption device 100 is mounted on the longitudinal beam structure 300, and the collision end 21 of the energy absorption element 20 of the stroke-adjustable cutting energy absorption device 100 is connected to the bumper 200.

[0085] In one embodiment of this application, there are two freely adjustable cutting energy absorption devices 100, and the two freely adjustable cutting energy absorption devices 100 are respectively connected to both ends of the bumper 200.

[0086] This freely adjustable cutting-type energy absorption system has the following characteristics: Figure 10 The retraction normal state shown and as Figure 11 The extended energy absorption state is shown. Figure 10 It describes that when the vehicle passes through the detection structure without predicting the risk, the travel-adjustable cutting energy-absorbing device 100 installed on the longitudinal beam structure 300 is in the retracted state of the energy-absorbing element 20. Figure 11The system describes how, when a vehicle senses an impending collision risk through a detection structure, a freely adjustable cutting-type energy-absorbing device 100 mounted on the longitudinal beam structure 300 is rapidly activated. Driven by the motor module 32 of the actuation mechanism 30, the energy-absorbing element 20 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.

[0087] This invention also provides a cutting-type energy absorption method with freely adjustable stroke, comprising the following steps:

[0088] S10, Provides a cutting-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke as described above.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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 20 based on the energy dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire energy-absorbing system of its own vehicle.

[0091] S40. The control mechanism controls the pushing mechanism 30 to push the energy-absorbing element 20 to extend the corresponding length according to the calculated extension length of the energy-absorbing element 20.

[0092] S50. After the energy-absorbing element 20 extends into position, the control mechanism immediately controls the cutting constraint mechanism to cut a recessed groove 28 on the energy-absorbing element 20 to constrain the movement of the energy-absorbing element 20 in order to avoid collision with the vehicle in front.

[0093] The formula for the energy E dissipated during the collision is:

[0094] E = Mv 相对 2 / 2;

[0095] 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;

[0096] The formula for the resistance force F of the entire energy absorption system of one's own vehicle is:

[0097] F = kMv c 2 / 2s;

[0098] In the formula, k is the dynamic correction coefficient, v c s represents the speed of our vehicle; s represents the effective deformation distance of our vehicle's energy absorption system.

[0099] The formula for the extension length L of the energy-absorbing element is as follows:

[0100] L = E / F = (v 相对 / v c ) 2 .(s / k).

[0101] In the test of the cutting-type energy absorption device of the present invention, the following expression can be obtained:

[0102] The expression for the collision energy absorption of the energy-absorbing element under the compression and clamping state of the constraint block:

[0103]

[0104] 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 absorption system; T represents the total response time during the collision; t represents the response time during the collision.

[0105] Active deformation feature expression:

[0106]

[0107] In the formula, L eff L1 indicates the effective compression stroke; L2 indicates the active extension compression stroke of the vehicle cutting energy absorption system.

[0108] Impact force expression:

[0109] F(l)<min[Ma c Mv c / t,π 2 EI / (cL eff ) 2 ];

[0110] 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.

[0111] Figure 12The energy absorption curves are for conventional energy absorption devices installed on existing vehicles. Figure 13 To illustrate the energy absorption curve after adding the cutting-type 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 cutting energy absorption device in this invention is more controllable and the energy absorption effect is more stable. The cutting 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.

[0112] 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 cutting-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke, characterized in that, include: Base; An energy-absorbing element, which can slide through the base, has a collision end and a non-collision end arranged opposite to each other; A cutting constraint mechanism, installed in the base, is used to constrain the movement of the energy-absorbing element by cutting a recessed groove on the energy-absorbing element; A pushing mechanism is mounted on the base and connected to the energy-absorbing element, used to push the energy-absorbing element to perform linear motion; A detection structure, mounted on the base, is used to monitor collision risk information; The control mechanism is electrically connected to the pushing mechanism, the detection structure, and the cutting constraint mechanism. It is used to predict the collision risk and collision energy absorption based on the detection signal of the detection structure. When a collision risk is predicted, it controls the pushing mechanism to push the energy-absorbing element to slide to the required energy-absorbing stroke position. After the energy-absorbing element moves into place, it controls the cutting constraint mechanism to cut the energy-absorbing element to form a recessed groove. The pushing mechanism includes a motor module mounted on the base, a gear connected to the motor module, and a rack meshing with the gear. The rack is fixed to the energy-absorbing element, extends along the axial direction of the energy-absorbing element, and can slide through the base. The cutting constraint mechanism includes at least two cutting constraint modules, which are uniformly distributed in a ring around the axis of the energy-absorbing element. The cutting constraint module includes a linear push module, a constraint block rotatably connected to the base, and a push block structure that links the linear push module and the constraint block. The constraint block is rotatably disposed in the accommodating cavity of the base. The constraint block has a block connecting end and a cutting end. The block connecting end is rotatably connected to the linear push module. The cutting end is positioned towards the energy-absorbing element. The push block structure is used to drive the constraint block to perform a rotational motion that cuts the energy-absorbing element under the push of the linear push module.

2. The cutting-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing element may be solid or hollow.

3. The cutting-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cutting end of the constraint block is triangularly arranged, and the size of the cutting end gradually decreases from the block connection end to the cutting end.

4. The cutting-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing element has an isosceles trapezoidal cross-section and has a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side connected end to end. The widths of the first side, the second side, and the third side are all equal and greater than the width of the fourth side. There are three cutting constraint modules, which are respectively arranged corresponding to the first side, the second side, and the third side. The rack of the pushing mechanism is mounted on the fourth side.

5. A cutting-type energy absorption device with freely adjustable stroke according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the non-collision end of the energy-absorbing element is provided with a stepped surface that corresponds one-to-one with the constraint block. The stepped surface has a guide section and a non-guide section. The guide section is curved in the direction from the non-collision end to the collision end, and the non-guide section is parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing element.

6. A cutting-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke, characterized in that, The device includes a bumper, a longitudinal beam structure, and a cutting-type energy-absorbing device with adjustable stroke as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base of the cutting-type energy-absorbing device with adjustable stroke is mounted on the longitudinal beam structure, and the collision end of the energy-absorbing element of the cutting-type energy-absorbing device with adjustable stroke is connected to the bumper.

7. A cutting-type energy absorption method with freely adjustable stroke, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Provides a cutting-type energy absorption system with freely adjustable stroke as described in claim 6; 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 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 based on the energy dissipated in the collision and the impedance of the entire cutting energy-absorbing system of its own vehicle. The control mechanism controls the pushing mechanism to push the energy-absorbing element to extend by the corresponding length based on the calculated extension length of the energy-absorbing element; After the energy-absorbing element extends into position, the control mechanism immediately controls the cutting constraint mechanism to cut a groove on the energy-absorbing element to constrain its movement in order to avoid collision with the vehicle in front. The formula for the energy E dissipated during the collision is: 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 cutting energy absorption system of our vehicle is: F=kMv c 2 / 2s; In the formula, k is the dynamic correction coefficient, v c s represents the speed of our vehicle; s represents the effective deformation distance of our vehicle's cutting energy absorption system. The formula for the extension length L of the energy-absorbing element is as follows: 。

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