Vehicle tail door driving device and vehicle

Abstract

The invention discloses a vehicle tail door driving device and a vehicle. The vehicle tail door driving device comprises a mounting seat; at least part of the structure of the driving assembly is arranged in the mounting seat; the swing arm is in transmission connection with the driving assembly; the connecting rod assembly comprises a first ball socket connector, a second ball socket connector and a connecting rod, the first end of the connecting rod is connected with the first ball socket connector, the second end of the connecting rod is connected with the second ball socket connector, and at least one of the first ball socket connector and the second ball socket connector is telescopically connected with the connecting rod. The first ball socket connector is in ball hinge with the swing arm, and the second ball socket connector is used for being in ball hinge with a rotating seat of a vehicle body. In this way, the length of the connecting rod assembly of the vehicle tail door driving device is adjustable, and the vehicle tail door driving device can adapt to different vehicle types.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a vehicle tailgate drive mechanism and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In some vehicle models, to address the issues of excessively large rotation area and prolonged opening / closing time caused by a large tailgate, the tailgate system is typically designed as a two-section tailgate that opens independently. The upper section opens upwards and is called the top door, while the lower section opens downwards and is called the bottom door. To enhance the driving experience and user comfort, some models include a drive mechanism for the bottom door to enable automatic opening and closing.

[0003] In existing technology, there is a door drive device that uses a motor arranged along the width of the door, in conjunction with a worm gear, planetary reduction mechanism, and swing arm linkage mechanism to drive the door. In this device, the two ends of the linkage are hinged to the swing arm and the rotating seat ball joint of the vehicle body respectively through ball joint connectors. This existing door drive device is basically vehicle-specific and difficult to adapt to different vehicle models. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The tailgate drive device provided in this application can solve the technical problem that in the prior art, the tailgate drive device can only be used for specific vehicles.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, one technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: This application provides a vehicle tailgate drive device, the vehicle tailgate drive device comprising: a mounting base; a drive assembly, at least partially disposed within the mounting base; a swing arm, pulsatorically connected to the drive assembly; and a linkage assembly comprising a first ball-and-socket connector, a second ball-and-socket connector, and a connecting rod, wherein a first end of the connecting rod is connected to the first ball-and-socket connector, a second end of the connecting rod is connected to the second ball-and-socket connector, at least one of the first ball-and-socket connector and the second ball-and-socket connector is spherically hinged to the swing arm, and the second ball-and-socket connector is spherically hinged to the rotating seat of the vehicle body.

[0006] In some embodiments, the connecting rod is provided with a threaded portion, and at least one of the first ball joint and the second ball joint is provided with a threaded hole, the threaded hole being screwed into the threaded portion.

[0007] In some embodiments, the connecting rod assembly further includes a nut screwed onto the connecting rod to secure the first ball joint or the second ball joint.

[0008] In some embodiments, the connecting rod assembly further includes a washer fitted onto the connecting rod, the washer being located between the first ball joint and the nut or between the second ball joint and the nut.

[0009] In some embodiments, the axial length of the threaded portion of the connecting rod that is screwed to the first ball joint is greater than the axial length of the threaded hole of the first ball joint; and / or, the axial length of the threaded portion of the connecting rod that is screwed to the second ball joint is less than the axial length of the threaded hole of the second ball joint.

[0010] In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes a first linkage shaft that drives the swing arm to rotate, the mounting base has a through hole for the first linkage shaft to pass through, the swing arm is sleeved on the end of the first linkage shaft located outside the mounting base, and the mounting base has a seal at the through hole to seal the gap between the first linkage shaft and the mounting base.

[0011] In some embodiments, the mounting base has a protrusion on the outer periphery of the through hole, the protrusion has a mounting groove, and the seal is located in the mounting groove.

[0012] In some embodiments, the swing arm includes a first arm segment, a second arm segment, and a bent segment connecting the first arm segment and the second arm segment. The first arm segment is fixedly connected to the first linkage shaft, and the second arm segment is connected to the first ball joint via a ball joint.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second arm segment is located below the first arm segment along the thickness direction of the mounting base.

[0014] Another technical solution adopted in this application is to provide a vehicle, which includes the vehicle tailgate drive device described in any of the above claims.

[0015] This application has at least the following beneficial effects: In this application's technical solution, at least one of the first ball joint and the second ball joint is telescopically connected to the connecting rod to adjust the length of the connecting rod assembly. In this way, the length of the vehicle tailgate drive device connecting rod assembly provided in this application is adjustable, enabling it to adapt to different vehicle models. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 These are schematic diagrams of the vehicle structure provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle tailgate drive device provided in some embodiments of this application from one view. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the vehicle tailgate drive device provided in some embodiments of this application from another perspective; Figure 4 This is an exploded view of a vehicle tailgate drive device provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a vehicle tailgate drive device provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the mounting base provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first linkage shaft provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 8 These are schematic diagrams of the swing arm provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a locking nut provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting base provided in some embodiments of this application from one viewpoint; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting base provided in some embodiments of this application from another perspective; Figure 12 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the vehicle's tailgate drive mechanism at point AA; Figure 13 yes Figure 4 Enlarged view of point I in the middle; Figure 14 These are schematic diagrams of the worm gear structure provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the end cap structure provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the tail cap structure provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 17 This is an exploded schematic diagram of the first buffer provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the motor and the second buffer provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 19 This is an exploded view of a linkage assembly provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 20 This is an exploded view of a linkage assembly from another perspective, provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0018] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1000 - Vehicle, 100 - Vehicle tailgate drive unit, 110 - Mounting base, 111 - First sealing cavity, 112 - Base, 113 - Cover, 114 - First groove, 115 - Second sealing cavity, 116 - Second groove, 117 - Second fixing hole, 118 - Third fixing hole, 1191 - First through hole, 1192 - Second through hole, Protrusion 1193, 1193a - Mounting groove, 120 - Swing arm, 121 - Second transmission hole, 122 - First arm section, 123 - Second arm section, 124 - Bending section, 130 - Linkage assembly, 131 - First ball joint connector, 1311 - First threaded hole, 132 - Linkage rod 1321-First threaded post, 1322-Second threaded post, 133-Second ball joint, 1331-Second threaded hole, 134-Nut, 135-Washer, 140-Drive assembly, 141-Second driven gear, 1411-First transmission hole, 142-First linkage shaft, 1421-First transmission part, 1422-Second transmission part, 1423-Threaded part, 143-Intermediate gear set, 144-Second linkage shaft, 145-Final stage driving gear, 146-First driven gear, 147-Worm, 1471-Shoulder, 1472-Annular groove, 148-Motor, 1481-Second limiting structure, 1482-First Buffer component, 1482a-First rib, 1483-Second buffer component, 1483a-Insertion strip, 1483b-Second rib, 1484-Slot, 1491-Flexible component, 1492-Protrusion, 1493-T-shaped limiting channel, 1494-Inverted T-shaped limiting protrusion, 1495-T-shaped protrusion, 1496-Rigid component, 1497-Strip rib, 1498-Boss, 1499-Stepped hole, 150-Locking nut, 151-Nut body, 152-Flange, 153-Annular protrusion, 160-First sealing ring, 171-First oil seal, 172-Second oil seal, 180-End cap, 181-First receiving Cavity, 1811-First step, 1821-Plug, 1822-First limiting structure, 190-Second sealing ring, 200-Sheet metal part, 210-First fixing hole, 220-First fixing part, 230-Second fixing part, 240-Third fixing part, 300-Tail cover, 310-Second receiving cavity, 311-Slot, 312-Wire passage hole, 313-Second step, 400-Sealing snap connector, 510-Spherical bearing shell, 520-Elastic fixing seat, 610-Bearing, 620-Shoulder bushing, 630-Bearing seat, 710-Snap ring, 720-Elastic coupling, 800-Body body, 910-Top door, 920-Bottom door. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only for explaining this application and not for limiting it. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts related to this application are shown in the accompanying drawings, not all structures. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] The terms "first" and "second" in this application are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. All directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movements between components in a specific orientation (as shown in the figures). If the specific orientation changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0021] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0022] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0023] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a structural schematic diagram of a vehicle provided in some embodiments of this application. The vehicle 1000 provided in this application is an MPV, SUV, or other vehicle equipped with a tailgate, tailgate, or slatted door. The vehicle 1000 includes, but is not limited to, a body 800, a tailgate, and a tailgate drive device 100. The tailgate is located at the rear of the body 800. The tailgate provided in this embodiment is a tailgate, which includes a top door 910 and a bottom door 920. The top door 910 is hinged to the top of the body and can be opened upwards and closed downwards. The bottom door 920 is hinged to the bottom of the body 800. In this embodiment, the tailgate drive device 100 is disposed on the bottom door 920 and is fixedly connected to the bottom door 920, so that the bottom door 920 can be opened downwards and closed upwards relative to the body 800.

[0024] Please refer to the following: Figures 2-9 In this embodiment, the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 is installed inside the tailgate and connected to the vehicle body 800, and is used to drive the tailgate 920 to open or close relative to the vehicle body 800. The vehicle tailgate drive device 100 provided in this application includes, but is not limited to, a mounting base 110, a swing arm 120, and a drive assembly 140. The mounting base 110 has a first sealing cavity 111 inside. The mounting base 110 has a first through hole 1191. The swing arm 120 is disposed outside the mounting base 110, and the drive assembly 140 is drivenly connected to the swing arm 120 to drive the swing arm 120 to rotate. The drive assembly 140 includes a second driven gear 141 and a first linkage shaft 142. The second driven gear 141 is rotatably disposed in the first sealing cavity 111 to protect the second driven gear 141, preventing the second driven gear 141 from directly contacting external foreign objects such as moisture and dust, thereby preventing corrosion or wear of the tooth surface of the second driven gear 141 or transmission failure caused by foreign object jamming, and ensuring transmission reliability.

[0025] One end of the first linkage shaft 142 extends into the first sealing cavity 111 and is fixedly connected to the second driven gear 141. The other end of the first linkage shaft 142 extends through the first through hole 1191 to the outside of the mounting base 110 and is fixedly connected to the swing arm 120, so as to transmit the torque output by the second driven gear 141 in the first sealing cavity 111 to the swing arm 120, causing the swing arm 120 to rotate relative to the mounting base 110, thereby driving the vehicle tailgate to open and close. Optionally, the second driven gear 141 is a sector gear.

[0026] Mounting base 110 is provided with a sealing structure at the first through hole 1191 to seal the gap between the first linkage shaft and the mounting base.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first linkage shaft 142 has a first transmission part 1421, and the second driven gear 141 has a first transmission hole 1411. The shape and size of the first transmission hole 1411 are adapted to the first transmission part 1421. By inserting and engaging the first transmission hole 1411 with the first transmission part 1421, the first linkage shaft 142 and the second driven gear 141 are fixedly connected, thereby simplifying the assembly process of the first linkage shaft 142 and the second driven gear 141.

[0028] Furthermore, the first linkage shaft 142 has a second transmission part 1422, and the swing arm 120 has a second transmission hole 121. The shape and size of the second transmission hole 121 are adapted to the second transmission part 1422. By inserting and engaging the second transmission hole 121 with the second transmission part 1422, the first linkage shaft 142 and the swing arm 120 are fixedly connected, thereby simplifying the assembly process of the first linkage shaft 142 and the swing arm 120 and improving the fatigue strength of the connection structure between the first linkage shaft 142 and the swing arm 120.

[0029] In this way, the connection stability between the swing arm 120 and the second driven gear 141 is improved, and the motion synchronization between the swing arm 120 and the second driven gear 141 is guaranteed, thereby effectively ensuring the stability of the vehicle tailgate movement.

[0030] The shape of the first transmission part 1421, the first transmission hole 1411, the second transmission part 1422, or the second transmission hole 121 can be non-circular, such as polygonal, oval, or spline.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first linkage shaft 142 extends to the end of the swing arm 120 with a threaded portion 1423. The vehicle tailgate drive device 100 also includes a locking nut 150, which is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 1423 to press and fix the swing arm 120, thereby ensuring that the swing arm 120, the second driven gear 141 and the first linkage shaft 142 still have high connection stability under long-term vibration environment, thus adapting to the vehicle environment.

[0032] Furthermore, the locking nut 150 has a nut body 151, a flange 152, and an annular protrusion 153. One axial end of the nut body 151 is fixedly connected to the flange 152. The other axial end of the nut body 151 is fixedly connected to the annular protrusion 153. The radial dimension of the flange 152 is larger than the radial dimension of the nut body 151. The radial dimension of the annular protrusion 153 is smaller than the radial dimension of the nut body 151. After the locking nut 150 is tightened with the threaded portion 1423, the flange 152 of the locking nut 150 abuts against the rocker arm 120 to increase the contact area between the locking nut 150 and the rocker arm 120, preventing loosening and providing a certain sealing effect. The annular protrusion 153 is provided at the end of the locking nut 150 away from the rocker arm 120. After the locking nut 150 is tightened to the threaded part 1423, the annular protrusion 153 will generate a continuous axial preload to achieve axial constraint and compression of the swing arm 120, thereby effectively preventing the swing arm 120 from loosening, making abnormal noises or even falling off due to the vibration of the vehicle 1000 driving.

[0033] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4-5 and Figures 10-18 The mounting base 110 includes a base 112 and a cover 113. The cover 113 is placed on the base 112. The base 112 and the cover 113 together form a first sealed cavity 111, wherein the cover 113 is sealed on the base 112 to facilitate the assembly, adjustment and subsequent maintenance of the second driven gear 141, thereby reducing the difficulty of maintenance.

[0034] In some embodiments, a first sealing ring 160 is provided at the connection between the base 112 and the cover 113 to effectively prevent dust, rainwater and other foreign objects from entering the first sealing cavity 111, protect the second driven gear 141 from corrosion, and thus ensure the durability and reliability of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100.

[0035] Furthermore, the base 112 is provided with a first groove 114, and the first sealing ring 160 is accommodated within the first groove 114. The first groove 114 provides an installation position for the first sealing ring 160, and the groove walls and bottom of the first groove 114 limit the position of the first sealing ring 160, ensuring it remains in the correct position during assembly and providing a basis for reliable sealing of the first sealing cavity 111. Simultaneously, the first groove 114 provides a clearly defined installation and positioning space for the first sealing ring 160, facilitating installation.

[0036] In some embodiments, a first groove 114 is provided on the cover 113 to provide an installation position for the first sealing ring 160.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cap 113 and the base 112 are sealed by laser welding.

[0038] In some embodiments, the sealing structure is a first oil seal 171, which is assembled between the base 112 and the first linkage shaft 142. Specifically, the mounting base 110 has a protrusion on the outer periphery of the first through hole. The protrusion has a mounting groove. The first oil seal 171 is located in the mounting groove. Understandably, the second driven gear 141 located in the first sealing cavity 111 needs continuous and sufficient lubrication to reduce wear and noise, and improve transmission efficiency. By setting the first oil seal 171, the lubricating oil in the first sealing cavity 111 can be effectively prevented from leaking outward along the first linkage shaft 142, and at the same time, it can prevent dust, water stains and other foreign objects from entering the first sealing cavity 111 in the reverse direction along the first linkage shaft 142, thereby ensuring effective lubrication of the transmission components in the first sealing cavity 111, delaying lubricating oil consumption and reducing maintenance needs.

[0039] In some embodiments, the mounting base 110 further includes an end cap 180. The end cap 180 and the side of the base 112 facing away from the cover 113 together form a second sealing cavity 115. The base 112 has a second through hole, and the second sealing cavity 115 communicates with the first sealing cavity 111 through the second through hole. Part of the structure of the drive assembly 140 is located within the second sealing cavity 115. In this embodiment, the end cap 180 is detachably connected to the base 112. Optionally, the end cap 180 can be detachably connected to the mounting base 110 by means of screws or clips.

[0040] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 140 further includes an intermediate gear set 143, which is located within the second sealed cavity 115 to protect the intermediate gear set 143 and effectively prevent external foreign objects such as moisture and dust from directly contacting it, thereby ensuring the transmission effectiveness of the intermediate gear set 143. In this embodiment, the intermediate gear set 143 is a planetary reduction gear set to achieve a high reduction ratio and high-efficiency power transmission in a small space, thereby outputting a large torque. It is understood that the intermediate gear set 143 can also adopt a single-stage cylindrical gear transmission to simplify assembly steps and reduce production costs; the intermediate gear set 143 can also adopt a multi-stage cylindrical gear transmission, through two or more stages of reduction, to achieve a higher overall reduction ratio, thereby outputting a larger driving torque.

[0041] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 140 further includes a second linkage shaft 144 and a final-stage drive gear 145. The second linkage shaft 144 passes through a second through hole in the first sealing cavity 111 and the second sealing cavity 115. An intermediate gear set 143 is fitted onto the second linkage shaft 144 and located within the second sealing cavity 115, while the final-stage drive gear 145 is fitted onto the second linkage shaft 144 and located within the first sealing cavity 111, enabling the intermediate gear set 143 to move synchronously with the final-stage drive gear 145. The final-stage drive gear 145 meshes with a second driven gear 141 to transmit power to the second driven gear 141, causing the second driven gear 141 to rotate relative to the mounting base 110. In this manner, the coaxiality and motion synchronization of the intermediate gear set 143 and the final-stage drive gear 145 are ensured, guaranteeing that power can be accurately and efficiently transmitted from the intermediate gear set 143 to the second driven gear 141, thus enabling the drive assembly 140 to operate more reliably and efficiently.

[0042] In some embodiments, the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 further includes a second oil seal 172. The second oil seal 172 is fitted onto the second linkage shaft 144 and separates the first sealing cavity 111 from the second sealing cavity 115, thereby achieving bidirectional isolation of the lubricating oil in the first sealing cavity 111 and the second sealing cavity 115 and preventing mutual leakage. This prevents lubrication failure or increased operating resistance of transmission components caused by unidirectional migration of lubricating oil, ultimately ensuring that all transmission components in the first sealing cavity 111 and the second sealing cavity 115 maintain ideal lubrication conditions.

[0043] In some embodiments, a second sealing ring 190 is provided between the end cap 180 and the mounting base 110 to further improve the sealing performance, effectively prevent dust, rainwater and other foreign objects from entering the interior of the second sealing cavity 115, protect the transmission components inside the second sealing cavity 115 from corrosion, and thus ensure the durability and reliability of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100.

[0044] Furthermore, a second groove 116 is provided on the base 112 and / or end cap 180, and the second sealing ring 190 is accommodated within the second groove 116. The groove wall and bottom of the second groove 116 limit the position of the second sealing ring 190, ensuring it remains in the correct position during assembly and providing a basis for reliable sealing of the second sealing cavity 115; simultaneously, the second groove 116 provides a precise installation and positioning space for the second sealing ring 190, facilitating installation. In this embodiment, the second groove 116 is provided on the base 112.

[0045] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4-6 and Figures 11-15The mounting base 110 has a first receiving cavity 181, and the tail cover 300 has a second receiving cavity 310. The first receiving cavity 181 has a first step 1811. The second receiving cavity 310 has a second step 313. The tail cover 300 is placed on the mounting base 110. The first receiving cavity 181 and the second receiving cavity 310 are arranged facing each other.

[0046] In some embodiments, the drive assembly 140 further includes a motor 148, a first driven gear 146, and a worm gear 147. The axial first end of the motor 148 is located within a first receiving cavity 181 and abuts against a first step 1811. The axial first end of the motor 148 is drive-connected to the worm gear 147. The axial second end of the motor 148 is located within a second receiving cavity 310 and abuts against a second step 313. The worm gear 147 is received in the first receiving cavity 181 and meshes with the first driven gear 146 to form a first-stage reduction. The first driven gear 146 is received in a second sealed cavity 115 and is drive-connected to an intermediate gear set 143 to transmit the output power of the motor 148 to the intermediate gear set 143. By providing a tail cover 300 and an end cover 180, the motor 148 is housed in the first receiving cavity 181 and the second receiving cavity 310, making the installation and disassembly of the motor 148, worm gear 147, and first driven gear 146 more convenient, reducing the complexity of the assembly process, lowering maintenance costs and time, and improving production efficiency. The axial first end of the motor 148 abuts against the first step 1811, and the axial second end of the motor 148 abuts against the second step 313, thus limiting the movement of the motor 148 under vibration and improving transmission reliability. Furthermore, at least one-third of the axial length of the motor 148 is located in the tail cover 300.

[0047] In some embodiments, a plug 1821 is provided at the opening of the first receiving cavity 181, and a slot 1484 is provided at the opening of the second receiving cavity 310. The plug 1821 is inserted into the slot 1484, so that the tail cover 300 covers the opening of the first receiving cavity 181. The cooperation between the plug 1821 and the slot 1484 simplifies the installation of the tail cover 300, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100.

[0048] In some embodiments, the tail cap 300 is welded and sealed to the end cap 180 to improve the device's sealing performance and prevent external moisture, dust, and other foreign objects from entering the first receiving cavity 181 and the second receiving cavity 310, thus affecting transmission accuracy. For example, the tail cap 300 is sealed to the end cap 180 by laser welding.

[0049] In some embodiments, the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 further includes a first buffer member 1482 disposed within a first receiving cavity 181. The first buffer member 1482 is located between the motor 148 and the first step 1811. The motor 148 abuts against the first step 1811 via the first buffer member 1482. The first buffer member 1482 can effectively absorb vibrations generated during the operation of the motor 148. The first buffer member 1482 includes a rigid component 1496 and a flexible component 1491, with the rigid component 1496 fixedly connected to the motor 148. The rigid component 1496 is fixedly connected to the motor 148 by fasteners such as screws, providing positioning and support for the flexible component 1491. The flexible component 1491 elastically deforms to wrap at least a portion of the rigid component 1496, and the flexible component 1491 is interference-fitted with a mounting base. For example, the rigid component 1496 is made of plastic, and the flexible component 1491 is made of rubber. By setting a rigid component 1496 to support the flexible component 1491, the flexible component 1491 can be prevented from failing due to long-term compression, thereby extending the service life of the first buffer component 1482 while ensuring the buffering effect.

[0050] In some embodiments, the flexible member 1491 has a plurality of circumferentially spaced protrusions 1492 at one axial end to increase the deformability of the flexible member. When subjected to vibrations from the motor 148, the flexible member 1491 can disperse and absorb vibrations through the elastic deformation of the plurality of protrusions 1492, thereby enhancing the buffering effect of the flexible member 1491.

[0051] In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the rigid member 1496 has a plurality of strip-shaped ribs 1497. The strip-shaped ribs 1497 extend between two adjacent protrusions 1492 and abut against and limit the corresponding protrusions 1492 to improve the connection strength between the rigid member 1496 and the flexible member 1491 and prevent relative slippage or separation between the flexible member 1491 and the rigid member 1496 under strong vibration environment.

[0052] In some embodiments, at least one protrusion 1492 has a T-shaped limiting channel 1493 on its inner surface. The outer surface of the rigid member 1496 is provided with an inverted T-shaped limiting protrusion 1494. The inverted T-shaped limiting protrusion 1494 can extend into the T-shaped limiting channel 1493 to restrict the rotation of the flexible member 1491 relative to the rigid member 1496. In this way, the connection strength between the rigid member 1496 and the flexible member 1491 can be improved, ensuring that the relative position of the flexible member 1491 and the rigid member 1496 does not change under complex vibration conditions.

[0053] In some embodiments, the rigid member 1496 has a radially extending boss 1498 at one end near the motor. One end of the inverted T-shaped limiting protrusion 1494 is connected to the boss 1498 to improve the load-bearing capacity and durability of the inverted T-shaped limiting protrusion 1494 under circumferential shear and axial vibration loads, thereby enhancing the structural strength of the inverted T-shaped limiting protrusion 1494.

[0054] Furthermore, the boss 1498 has a stepped hole 1499. The flexible member 1491 has a T-shaped protrusion 1495 that inserts into the stepped hole 1499. In this way, the flexible member 1491 can be circumferentially limited, thereby improving the connection stability between the rigid member 1496 and the flexible member 1491.

[0055] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the first buffer member 1482 is provided with a first rib 1482a, which abuts against the inner wall of the first receiving cavity. Since the first buffer member 1482 has a certain elasticity, the first rib 1482a can deform while restricting the rotation of the motor 148, thereby mitigating the rigid impact on the motor 148 and the end cover 180 during the process of restricting the rotation of the motor 148 relative to the end cover 180, and thus improving the service life of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100.

[0056] In some embodiments, the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 further includes a second buffer 1483 disposed within the second receiving cavity 310. The second buffer 1483 is located between the motor 148 and the second step 313. The motor 148 abuts against the second step 313 via the second buffer 1483. The second buffer 1483 can effectively absorb the vibration generated during the operation of the motor 148, thereby protecting the motor 148 and reducing noise.

[0057] Furthermore, the second buffer 1483 is interference-fitted with the mounting base 110. The second buffer 1483 is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced inserts 1483a, and the motor 148 is provided with a plurality of slots 1484 for inserting the inserts 1483a, thereby restricting the rotation of the second buffer 1483 relative to the motor 148. In this way, the connection position between the second buffer 1483 and the motor 148 is kept stable, preventing a decrease in buffering performance caused by relative rotation between the second buffer 1483 and the motor 148.

[0058] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the second buffer 1483 is provided with a second rib 1483b, which abuts against the inner wall of the second receiving cavity 310. In this way, the rigid impact on the motor 148 and the tail cover 300 during the process of restricting the rotation of the motor 148 relative to the tail cover 300 is mitigated, thereby improving the service life of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first receiving cavity 181 is provided with a first limiting structure 1822. The motor 148 is provided with a second limiting structure 1481. The first limiting structure 1822 and the second limiting structure 1481 are connected in a limiting connection to restrict the rotation of the motor 148 relative to the end cover 180. Understandably, the motor 148 generates a large torque when starting or reversing. Through the cooperation of the first limiting structure 1822 and the second limiting structure 1481, the motor 148 can be firmly locked in the first receiving cavity 181, avoiding transmission errors and malfunctions caused by the rotation of the motor 148 itself, thereby ensuring the accuracy of power transmission and reducing the noise generated by the rotation of the motor 148 relative to the first receiving cavity 181.

[0060] In some embodiments, the first buffer 1482 is provided with a first limiting structure 1822. The first limiting structure 1822 is connected to the second limiting structure 1481 to limit the rotation of the motor 148 relative to the end cover 180. The first buffer 1482 not only ensures vibration damping but also has a circumferential limiting function. This reduces the number of parts in the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 and simplifies the assembly relationship.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first limiting structure 1822 is a limiting protrusion, and the second limiting structure 1481 is a limiting groove. During the process of inserting the motor 148 into the first receiving groove 182, the limiting groove and the limiting protrusion engage to limit the motor 148, simplifying the installation process of the motor 148, making the assembly of the motor 148 more precise and convenient, and further improving production efficiency.

[0062] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the first receiving cavity is provided with a plurality of U-shaped limiting ribs distributed circumferentially. The protrusion 1492 engages with the U-shaped limiting ribs to limit the rotation of the motor 148 relative to the mounting base 110, thereby simplifying the installation process of the motor 148.

[0063] In some embodiments, the bottom wall of the second receiving cavity 310 is provided with a wire passage hole 312. The vehicle tailgate drive device 100 includes a sealing snap-fit ​​connector 400 with a wire. The sealing snap-fit ​​connector 400 snaps into the wire passage hole 312 and is sealed to the inner wall of the wire passage hole 312 to prevent external moisture, dust, and other foreign objects from entering the second receiving cavity 310 along the wire, causing a short circuit or voltage instability in the motor 148, thereby improving the service life and operational stability of the motor 148. The wire is electrically connected to the motor 148 to supply power to the motor 148.

[0064] In some embodiments, the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 further includes a spherical bearing 510 and an elastic fixing seat 520. The elastic fixing seat 520 is disposed in the first receiving cavity 181. The elastic fixing seat 520 can absorb the impact and vibration generated during the transmission of the worm gear 147, thereby improving the operational stability of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 and reducing noise. The spherical bearing 510 is rotatably disposed within the elastic fixing seat 520 and is fixedly sleeved on the outer periphery of one end of the worm gear 147 to axially position the worm gear 147 and ensure the coaxiality of the worm gear 147 and the output shaft of the motor 148. During the operation of the device, due to wear, vibration, etc., the axis between the worm gear 147 and the output shaft of the motor 148 is prone to deviation. The spherical bearing 510 can enable the worm gear 147 to adaptively deflect within a certain angle to compensate for the deviation.

[0065] In some embodiments, the vehicle tailgate drive mechanism 100 further includes a bearing 610 and a shouldered bushing 620. A bearing housing 630 is provided in the first receiving cavity 181, and the bearing 610 is disposed in the bearing housing 630. A worm gear 147 passes through the bearing 610, and the shouldered bushing 620 is inserted into the bearing housing 630 and abuts against the outer ring of the bearing 610, providing precise axial positioning for the bearing 610. The shoulder of the shouldered bushing 620 is detachably fixed to the bearing housing 630 to facilitate the installation and maintenance of the bearing 610. Specifically, when the bearing 610 needs to be replaced or maintained due to long-term use, the bearing 610 can be removed simply by disassembling the shoulder of the shouldered bushing 620, thereby significantly improving the maintainability of the product and reducing maintenance costs.

[0066] In some embodiments, the worm gear 147 is provided with a shoulder 1471 and an annular groove 1472, and the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 further includes a retaining ring 710. The retaining ring 710 is engaged with the annular groove 1472 to simplify assembly. Specifically, during assembly, the bearing 610 and the retaining ring 710 are sequentially fitted onto the worm gear 147, and the retaining ring 710 is then engaged with the annular groove 1472 to complete the axial fixation. The assembly process is simple, quick, and easily automated. The bearing 610 is disposed between the shoulder 1471 and the retaining ring 710 to axially fix the bearing 610, preventing axial movement of the bearing 610 in a vibration environment, thereby ensuring the long-term stability of the axial position of the worm gear 147.

[0067] In some embodiments, the worm gear 147 and the output shaft of the motor 148 are connected by a flexible coupling 720 to compensate for alignment errors and reduce installation stress. The flexible coupling can compensate for angular deviations between the output shaft of the motor 148 and the worm gear 147 through elastic deformation to ensure coaxiality. At the same time, the flexible coupling 720 can buffer the impact of instantaneous torque when the motor 148 starts, stops, or reverses, thereby improving the smoothness of the opening and closing process of the door 920 and enhancing the user experience.

[0068] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 The vehicle tailgate drive mechanism 100 also includes a linkage assembly 130. A first end of the linkage assembly 130 is hinged to a rocker arm 120, and a second end of the linkage assembly 130 is hinged to a rotating seat of the vehicle body. The linkage assembly 130 includes, but is not limited to, a first ball-and-socket connector 131, a connecting rod 132, and a second ball-and-socket connector 133. Specifically, the first end of the connecting rod 132 is connected to the first ball-and-socket connector 131, and the second end of the connecting rod 132 is connected to the second ball-and-socket connector 133. At least one of the first ball-and-socket connector 131 and the second ball-and-socket connector 133 is telescopically connected to the connecting rod 132. The first ball-and-socket connector 131 is ball-hinged to the rocker arm 120, and the second ball-and-socket connector 133 is ball-hinged to the rotating seat, thereby increasing the degree of freedom of the linkage assembly 130 and simplifying its installation.

[0069] When the tailgate drive unit 100 is installed on different vehicles, the distance between the swing arm 120 and the vehicle body 800 will vary depending on the vehicle model. In this embodiment, the length of the connecting rod assembly 130 can be adjusted by changing the depth to which the connecting rod 132 extends into the first ball joint 131 and / or the second ball joint 133, thereby adapting to different vehicle models.

[0070] In some embodiments, the connecting rod 132 is provided with a threaded portion. The first ball-and-socket connector 131 is provided with a first threaded hole 1311, and the first end of the connecting rod 132 is provided with a first threaded post 1321. The first threaded hole 1311 and the first threaded post 1321 are screwed together, such that the first end of the connecting rod 132 is screwed into the first ball-and-socket connector 131. In this embodiment, the length of the connecting rod assembly 130 is adjusted by rotating the connecting rod 132 to change the depth to which the first end of the connecting rod extends into the first ball-and-socket connector 131.

[0071] In some embodiments, the second ball joint 133 is provided with a second threaded hole 1331. The second end of the connecting rod 132 is provided with a second threaded post 1322. The second threaded hole 1331 and the second threaded post 1322 are screwed together, such that the second end of the connecting rod 132 is screwed into the second ball joint 133. By rotating the connecting rod 132, the depth to which the second end of the connecting rod 132 extends into the second ball joint 133 is changed, thereby adjusting the length of the connecting rod assembly 130.

[0072] In some embodiments, axially arranged positioning holes are pre-set on the first end of the connecting rod 132 and the first ball-and-socket connector 131. When adjusting the length of the connecting rod assembly 130, pressure or tension is applied to the first ball-and-socket connector 131 to make the connecting rod assembly 130 reach the required length and align the positioning holes. Then, a pin is inserted to lock it, thereby realizing the length adjustment of the connecting rod assembly 130.

[0073] In some embodiments, axially arranged positioning holes are pre-set on the second end of the connecting rod 132 and the second ball-and-socket connector 133. When adjusting the length of the connecting rod assembly 130, pressure or tension is applied to the second ball-and-socket connector 133 to bring the connecting rod assembly 130 to the required length and align the positioning holes. Then, a pin is inserted to lock it, thereby realizing the length adjustment of the connecting rod assembly 130.

[0074] In some embodiments, the link assembly 130 further includes a nut 134. The nut 134 is screwed onto the link 132 to secure either the first ball joint 131 or the second ball joint 133.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first end of the connecting rod 132 serves as both the power input end and the length adjustment end. The length of the first threaded post 1321 is greater than the length of the first threaded hole 1311, allowing the length of the connecting rod assembly 130 to be adjusted by changing the depth to which the first threaded post 1321 is screwed into the first threaded hole 1311. After the first threaded post 1321 is screwed into the first threaded hole 1311, the first threaded post 1321 positioned outside the first threaded hole 1311 serves to accommodate the nut 134. Specifically, after the first threaded post 1321 is screwed into the nut 134, a portion of the first threaded post 1321 extends beyond the nut 134 and is screwed into the first threaded hole 1311, causing the first end of the connecting rod 132 to be screwed into the first ball-and-socket connector 131. After adjusting the connecting rod assembly 1300 to the appropriate length, the knob nut 134 is turned to press the nut 134 tightly against the end face of the first ball joint 131, generating an axial preload, thereby fixing the first ball joint 131 to the first end of the connecting rod 132 and preventing the first ball joint 131 from loosening under long-term vibration.

[0076] In some embodiments, the connecting rod assembly 130 further includes a washer 135. The washer 135 is sleeved on the connecting rod 132 and abuts against the first ball-and-socket connector 131 or the second ball-and-socket connector 133 and the nut 134. In this embodiment, the nut 134 is screwed to the first end of the connecting rod 132 to secure the first ball-and-socket connector 131. The washer 135 abuts against the first ball-and-socket connector 131 and the nut 134 to further optimize the connection performance. Specifically, by providing the washer 135, the contact area between the nut 134 and the first ball-and-socket connector 131 can be increased, thereby dispersing pressure and avoiding excessive local pressure that could damage the end face of the first ball-and-socket connector 131.

[0077] In some embodiments, the length of the second threaded post 1322 is less than the length of the second threaded hole 1331. The assembler can complete the installation and assembly of the connecting rod 132 and the second ball joint 133 by tightening the second threaded post 1322 into the second threaded hole 1331, without needing to adjust the relative position of the second end of the connecting rod 132 and the second ball joint 133. Understandably, the length of the connecting rod assembly 130 can be changed simply by adjusting the first end of the connecting rod 132; therefore, there is no need to adjust the second end of the connecting rod 132, and consequently, there is no need to configure a nut 134 at the second end of the connecting rod 132, thereby reducing the number of parts and simplifying the assembly process.

[0078] Please refer to 2. Figure 4 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the swing arm 120 includes a first arm segment, a second arm segment, and a bent segment connecting the first arm segment and the second arm segment. The first arm segment is fixedly connected to the first linkage shaft 142 and is positioned between the locking nut 150 and the protrusion, and the second arm segment is ball-jointed to the first ball joint.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second arm segment is located below the first arm segment along the thickness direction of the mounting base 110. This reduces the space required for the layout of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100, thereby enabling the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 provided in this application to be adapted to a variety of vehicles.

[0080] Please see 2 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, the vehicle tailgate drive unit 100 includes a sheet metal part 200 fixed to a mounting base 110. The sheet metal part 200 has a first fixing hole 210. The mounting base 110 has a second fixing hole 117 and a third fixing hole 118. The first fixing hole 210, the second fixing hole 117, and the third fixing hole 118 are used to fix the mounting base 110 to the interior of the tailgate 920. This provides installation guidance for the assembly of the vehicle tailgate drive unit 100 on the tailgate 920.

[0081] In some embodiments, the line connecting the first fixing hole 210, the second fixing hole 117 and the third fixing hole 118 forms a triangle to form a stable geometric support, enhance the overall stability of the connection between the mounting base 110 and the vehicle body 800, and prevent the mounting base 110 from loosening or the sheet metal part 200 from deforming due to long-term vibration.

[0082] In some embodiments, the sheet metal part 200 is generally U-shaped. The sheet metal part 200 includes a first fixing portion 220, a second fixing portion 230, and a third fixing portion 240. One end of the third fixing portion 240 is connected to the first fixing portion 220, and the other end of the third fixing portion is connected to the second fixing portion 230. The open side of the sheet metal part 200 is fixed to one side of the mounting base 110 via the first fixing portion 220 and the second fixing portion 230, which are fixedly connected to one side of the mounting base 110. Along the thickness direction of the mounting base 110, the first fixing portion 220 and the second fixing portion 230 are located above the third fixing portion 240. A first fixing hole is located on the third fixing portion 240 to fix the sheet metal part 200 to the interior of the vehicle tailgate.

[0083] The second and third fixing holes are located on the other side of the mounting base. Along the thickness direction of the mounting base 110, the second and third fixing holes are positioned above the first fixing hole. In this way, the first fixing hole 210, the second fixing hole 117, and the third fixing hole 118 form a spatial triangle. Compared to a planar triangle, this triangle has higher torsional resistance and can effectively constrain the degrees of freedom of the mounting base from multiple directions, thereby enhancing the overall stability of the connection between the mounting base 110 and the vehicle body 800.

[0084] In some embodiments of this application, when the swing arm 120 is connected to the tailgate 920, the operating principle of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 is as follows: After the motor 148 starts, the driving force output by the motor 148 is first reduced and increased in torque by the worm gear 147 and the first driven gear 146, and then transmitted to the intermediate gear set 143 for a second stage of reduction and torque increase. The intermediate gear set 143 drives the final stage driving gear 145 to rotate through the second linkage shaft 144, and the final stage driving gear 145 drives the second driven gear 141 to rotate. The second driven gear 141 drives the swing arm 120 to rotate relative to the mounting base 110 through the first linkage shaft 142. The swing arm 120 is connected to the tailgate 920 to drive the tailgate 920 to rotate relative to the vehicle body 800, thereby realizing the opening and closing of the tailgate 920.

[0085] In some embodiments of this application, when the linkage assembly 130 is connected to the tailgate 920, the operating principle of the vehicle tailgate drive device 100 is as follows: After the motor 148 starts, the driving force output by the motor 148 is first reduced and increased in torque by the worm gear 147 and the first driven gear 146, and then transmitted to the intermediate gear set 143 for a second stage of reduction and torque increase. The intermediate gear set 143 drives the final stage driving gear 145 to rotate through the second linkage shaft 144, and the final stage driving gear 145 drives the second driven gear 141 to rotate. The second driven gear 141 drives the swing arm 120 to rotate relative to the mounting base 110 through the first linkage shaft 142. The swing arm 120 drives the linkage assembly 130 to move, and the linkage assembly 130 drives the tailgate 920 to rotate relative to the vehicle body 800, thereby realizing the opening and closing of the tailgate 920.

[0086] The above description is only a part of the embodiments of this application and does not limit the scope of protection of this application. Any equivalent device or equivalent process transformation made based on the content of this application specification and drawings, or direct or indirect application in other related technical fields, are similarly included in the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A vehicle tailgate drive device, characterized in that, include: The mounting base has a first sealed cavity inside and a first through hole. The driving component, at least a portion of which is disposed within the mounting base; The swing arm is connected to the drive assembly and is disposed outside the mounting base; A linkage assembly includes a first ball-and-socket connector, a second ball-and-socket connector, and a connecting rod. A first end of the connecting rod is connected to the first ball-and-socket connector, and a second end of the connecting rod is connected to the second ball-and-socket connector. At least one of the first ball-and-socket connector and the second ball-and-socket connector is telescopically connected to the connecting rod. The first ball-and-socket connector is hinged to the ball joint of the swing arm, and the second ball-and-socket connector is hinged to the ball joint of the vehicle body. The drive assembly includes a second driven gear and a first linkage shaft. The second driven gear is rotatably disposed in the first sealed cavity. One end of the first linkage shaft extends into the first sealed cavity and is fixedly connected to the second driven gear. The other end extends through the first through hole to the outside of the mounting base and is fixedly connected to the swing arm. The mounting base is provided with a sealing structure at the first through hole to seal the gap between the first linkage shaft and the mounting base. The first linkage shaft has a threaded portion at its end extending to the outer side of the swing arm. The drive assembly also includes a locking nut, which is threadedly connected to the threaded portion to press and fix the swing arm.

2. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting rod is provided with a threaded portion, and at least one of the first ball joint and the second ball joint is provided with a threaded hole, the threaded hole being screwed into the threaded portion.

3. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting rod assembly also includes a nut, which is screwed onto the connecting rod to secure the first ball joint or the second ball joint.

4. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting rod assembly further includes a washer, which is sleeved on the connecting rod and located between the first ball joint and the nut or between the second ball joint and the nut.

5. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The axial length of the threaded portion of the connecting rod that is screwed to the first ball joint is greater than the axial length of the threaded hole of the first ball joint; and / or, the axial length of the threaded portion of the connecting rod that is screwed to the second ball joint is less than the axial length of the threaded hole of the second ball joint.

6. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly further includes a first linkage shaft that drives the swing arm to rotate. The mounting base has a through hole through which the first linkage shaft passes. The swing arm is sleeved on the end of the first linkage shaft located outside the mounting base. The mounting base has a seal at the through hole to seal the gap between the first linkage shaft and the mounting base.

7. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The mounting base has a protruding post on the outer periphery of the through hole, the protruding post has a mounting groove, and the sealing element is located in the mounting groove.

8. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The swing arm includes a first arm segment, a second arm segment, and a bent segment connecting the first arm segment and the second arm segment. The first arm segment is fixedly connected to the first linkage shaft, and the second arm segment is connected to the first ball joint via a ball joint.

9. The vehicle tailgate drive device according to claim 7, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the mounting base, the second arm segment is located below the first arm segment.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the vehicle tailgate drive device as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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