Torque sensor of electric power steering system

Abstract

The invention discloses a torque sensor of an electric power steering system, relates to the technical field of torque sensors, and solves the problem that in the prior art, when an automobile is in a match, the automobile continuously rotates back and forth in the direction, so that the joint of a steering shaft and an output shaft and a middle shaft of the torque sensor slips and falls off. The torque sensor cannot work normally, the power of a steering system is interrupted, and certain safety risks exist. Comprising a steering shaft, an output shaft and a torque sensor body arranged between the steering shaft and the output shaft, and the torque sensor body comprises a sensor body and torque transmission middle shafts arranged on the two sides of the sensor body; the torque sensor further comprises an anti-falling mechanism used for installing the torque sensor body. According to the invention, dual-limiting connection is realized, the connection stability is improved, falling off caused by slipping at the joint of the steering shaft as well as the output shaft and the middle shaft of the torque sensor can be avoided, power transmission of a steering system can be effectively ensured, and the torque sensor can work normally.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of torque sensor technology, and particularly relates to a torque sensor for an electric power steering system. Background Technology

[0002] An electric power steering system generally consists of a mechanical steering gear, torque sensor, vehicle speed sensor, EPS controller, reducer, and motor. Its working principle is briefly described as follows: The EPS controller collects measurements from various sensors to obtain the steering torque, steering wheel angle, and vehicle speed signals applied by the driver to the steering wheel; based on the EPS control strategy, it calculates the target assist torque and converts it into a current command for the motor, controlling the motor to generate the corresponding assist torque; this assist torque is amplified by the reduction mechanism and then applied to the mechanical steering gear to assist the driver in overcoming steering resistance torque and achieving vehicle steering.

[0003] Currently, existing technologies use torque sensors to detect the torque of the steering system online. During rally racing, the driver continuously rotates the steering wheel, which can lead to slippage and detachment at the connection between the steering shaft / output shaft and the torque sensor's central shaft over time. This can cause the torque sensor to malfunction, potentially resulting in a power interruption in the steering system and posing a safety risk. Therefore, we have designed a torque sensor for electric power steering systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a torque sensor for an electric power steering system. This torque sensor addresses the technical problem in existing technologies where, during racing, the steering wheel is continuously rotated back and forth, which may cause slippage and detachment at the connection between the steering shaft and the output shaft and the torque sensor's central shaft. This results in the torque sensor malfunctioning, causing a power interruption in the steering system, and posing a certain safety risk.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, a torque sensor for an electric power steering system is provided, comprising a steering shaft, an output shaft, and a torque sensor body disposed between the steering shaft and the output shaft, wherein the torque sensor body comprises a sensor housing and torque transmission shafts disposed on both sides of the sensor housing;

[0006] It also includes an anti-detachment mechanism for mounting the torque sensor body. The anti-detachment mechanism includes an anti-detachment component, which includes a sleeve at the steering shaft and output shaft ends, several locking blocks I inside the sleeve, anti-detachment pins at both ends of the torque transmission shaft, and several locking blocks II on each anti-detachment pin. When the anti-detachment pins at both ends of the torque transmission shaft are inserted into the sleeves on the steering shaft and output shaft respectively, the locking blocks I inside the sleeve and the locking blocks II on each anti-detachment pin are staggered and engaged together.

[0007] A further improvement is that the anti-detachment mechanism also includes a connecting structure, which includes an assembly plate one fitted on each anti-detachment insert, an assembly plate two fitted on each sleeve, an installation slot on one side of each assembly plate one, and a limiting ring on one side of each assembly plate two. The installation slot and the limiting ring are used for the installation of assembly plate one and assembly plate two.

[0008] A further improvement is that the anti-detachment component also includes a U-shaped protective component. A cover plate is provided inside the port of the U-shaped protective component. Two semi-circular retaining seats are provided on the inner wall of the cover plate. A semi-circular retaining seat is provided on the inner wall of the U-shaped protective component corresponding to each semi-circular retaining seat. Each semi-circular retaining seat and each semi-circular retaining seat and the cover plate are provided with a slot for engaging and installing the assembly plate.

[0009] A further improvement is that the cover plate is provided with fixing studs at the positions corresponding to the two semi-circular card seats one, and each of the semi-circular card seats one and two is installed by fixing studs.

[0010] A further improvement is that the U-shaped protective component has bending notches on both sides, and each bending notch has a stop on its side. The stop is used to limit the cover plate and prevent it from sliding out.

[0011] A further improvement is that mounting grooves are provided through both sides of the U-shaped protective component. The mounting grooves are used for the installation of the U-shaped protective component. After installation, the cover plate is locked inside the port of the U-shaped protective component.

[0012] A further improvement is that a protective silicone kit is provided inside the U-shaped protective component. The protective silicone kit has an opening and is located between two U-shaped brackets. Sealed bearings are provided inside the two side ports of the protective silicone kit. During installation, the protective silicone kit is fitted onto the torque sensor, with the two sides of the protective silicone kit contacting the inner wall of the U-shaped bracket. The sealed bearings on the inner wall of the two side ports are fitted onto the central shaft of the torque sensor.

[0013] A further improvement is that the inner wall of the protective silicone kit has an installation groove on one side of the opening, and a silicone rod on the other side of the inner wall. A magnetic strip is connected inside the installation groove, and a magnetic strip is connected inside the silicone rod. When the protective silicone kit is fitted onto the torque sensor body and the silicone rod in the opening is inserted into the corresponding installation groove, the magnetic strip and the silicone rod are attracted and adhered together. At this time, the torque transmission shaft passes through the sealed bearings on both sides of the protective silicone kit, and the protective silicone kit, sealed bearings, and silicone rod can be used for protection.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are:

[0015] (1) In this invention, the anti-detachment pins at both ends of the torque transmission shaft are inserted into the sleeves of the steering shaft and the output shaft respectively. First, the first locking block in the sleeve is staggered and engaged with the second locking block on each anti-detachment pin. Then, each assembly plate 1 and each assembly plate 2 on the sleeve are connected together through the mounting slot and the limiting ring to complete the initial connection. Then, the assembled assembly plate 1 and assembly plate 2 are respectively locked in the slots of the semi-circular card seat 1 and semi-circular card seat 2 on the inner wall of the U-shaped protective part and the cover plate. After the fixing stud is tightened, the double limiting connection is realized, which improves the connection stability and can prevent the steering shaft and the output shaft from slipping and falling off at the connection with the torque sensor shaft. It can effectively ensure the transmission of power of the steering system and thus allow the torque sensor to work normally.

[0016] (2) In this invention, the protective silicone kit is put on the torque sensor body during assembly, and the silicone rod in the opening is inserted into the mounting groove accordingly, and the magnetic strip and the silicone rod are attracted and adhered together. At this time, the torque transmission shaft passes through the sealed bearings on both sides of the protective silicone kit. The protective silicone kit, the sealed bearings and the silicone rod can be used for protection, which can effectively avoid corrosion in corrosive environments and improve service life. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the torque sensor body, connection structure, and anti-detachment component of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a partial side view of the anti-detachment mechanism of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a top view of the protective silicone kit of the present invention.

[0022] Marked in the image:

[0023] 1. Anti-detachment mechanism; 11. U-shaped protective component; 111. Assembly groove; 112. Cover plate; 113. Semi-circular bracket one; 114. Semi-circular bracket two; 115. Slot; 116. Bending notch; 117. Stop block; 118. Protective silicone kit; 1181. Opening;

[0024] 12. Anti-detachment component; 121. Sleeve; 122. Locking block one; 123. Anti-detachment insert; 124. Locking block two;

[0025] 13. Connection structure; 131. Assembly plate one; 132. Assembly plate two; 133. Limiting ring; 134. Sealed bearing; 135. Mounting groove; 136. Silicone insert; 137. Magnetic strip one; 138. Magnetic strip two; 139. Mounting slot;

[0026] 2. Output shaft; 3. Steering shaft; 4. Torque sensor body; 41. Sensor body; 42. Torque transmission shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0028] Example 1

[0029] like Figure 2 As shown, an electric power steering system torque sensor includes a steering shaft 3, an output shaft 2, and a torque sensor body 4 disposed between the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2. The torque sensor body 4 includes a sensor body 41 and torque transmission shafts 42 disposed on both sides of the sensor body 41. The torque transmission shafts 42 are respectively connected to the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2.

[0030] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, it also includes an anti-detachment mechanism 1 for mounting the torque sensor 4. The anti-detachment mechanism 1 includes an anti-detachment component 12. The anti-detachment component 12 includes a sleeve 121 located at the ends of the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2, a plurality of locking blocks 122 located inside the sleeve 121, anti-detachment pins 123 located at both ends of the torque transmission shaft 42, and a plurality of locking blocks 124 located on each anti-detachment pin 123. When the anti-detachment pins 123 at both ends of the torque transmission shaft 42 are respectively inserted into the sleeve 121 on the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2, the locking blocks 122 inside the sleeve 121 and the locking blocks 124 on each anti-detachment pin 123 are staggered and engaged with each other.

[0031] like Figure 3 As shown, the anti-detachment mechanism 1 also includes a connecting structure 13. The connecting structure 13 includes an assembly plate 131 fitted on each anti-detachment pin 123, an assembly plate 132 fitted on each sleeve 121, an installation slot 139 on the side of each assembly plate 131, and a limiting ring 133 on the side of each assembly plate 132. By inserting the anti-detachment pins 123 at both ends of the torque transmission shaft 42 into the sleeves 121 on the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2 respectively, the locking blocks 122 in the sleeves 121 are first staggered and engaged with the locking blocks 124 on each anti-detachment pin 123. Then, each assembly plate 131 and each assembly plate 132 on the sleeves 121 are connected together through the installation slot 139 and the limiting ring 133, so that the connection can be initially engaged.

[0032] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the anti-detachment component 12 also includes a U-shaped protective member 11. A cover plate 112 is provided inside the port of the U-shaped protective member 11. Two semi-circular retaining seats 113 are provided on the inner wall of the cover plate 112. A semi-circular retaining seat 114 is provided on the inner wall of the U-shaped protective member 11 corresponding to each semi-circular retaining seat 113. Each semi-circular retaining seat 113, semi-circular retaining seat 114, and cover plate 112 are provided with a slot 115. The slot 115 is used for the engagement and installation of assembly disc 131 and assembly disc 132. This is achieved by first assembling the two sets of components... The lower halves of assembly disc 131 and assembly disc 2 132 are respectively locked in the slots 115 of the semi-circular slot 113 and semi-circular slot 2 114 on the inner wall of the U-shaped protective component 11. When the cover plate is closed, the upper halves of assembly disc 131 and assembly disc 2 132 are respectively locked in the slots 115 of the semi-circular slot 113 and semi-circular slot 2 114 on the cover plate. After tightening the fixing studs, assembly disc 131 and assembly disc 2 132 can be limited, realizing a double limiting connection, improving connection stability, and thus effectively preventing detachment.

[0033] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown in this embodiment, the cover plate 112 is provided with fixing studs at the positions corresponding to the two semi-circular card seats 113. Each semi-circular card seat 113 and semi-circular card seat 214 are installed by fixing studs, and the semi-circular card seats 113 and semi-circular card seats 214 can be disassembled and assembled.

[0034] Combination Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the U-shaped protective member 11 has bending notches 116 on both sides, and each bending notch 116 has a stop block 117 on its side. The stop block 117 is used to limit the cover plate 112 and prevent the cover plate 112 from sliding out.

[0035] Example 2

[0036] like Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, based on Embodiment 1, a protective silicone kit 118 is provided inside the U-shaped protective component 11. The protective silicone kit 118 has an opening and is located between two U-shaped brackets 112. Sealed bearings 134 are provided inside the two side ports of the protective silicone kit 118. During installation, the protective silicone kit 118 is fitted onto the torque sensor body 4. The two sides of the protective silicone kit 118 are in contact with the inner wall of the U-shaped bracket 112, and the sealed bearings 134 on the inner wall of the two side ports are fitted onto the torque transmission shaft 42.

[0037] like Figure 5 As shown, the inner wall of the protective silicone kit 118 has an installation groove 135 on one side and a silicone rod 136 on the other side. A magnetic strip 137 is connected inside the installation groove 135, and a magnetic strip 138 is connected inside the silicone rod 136. When the protective silicone kit 118 is fitted onto the torque sensor body 4 and the silicone rod 136 in the opening is inserted into the corresponding installation groove 135, the magnetic strip 137 and the silicone rod 136 are attracted and adhered together. At this time, the torque transmission shaft 42 passes through the sealed bearings 134 on both sides of the protective silicone kit 118. The protective silicone kit 118, the sealed bearings 134, and the silicone rod 136 can be used for protection, thereby effectively avoiding corrosion in corrosive environments and improving service life.

[0038] Combination Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the U-shaped protective component 11 has mounting grooves 111 extending through both sides. The mounting grooves 111 are used for the installation of the U-shaped protective component 11. After installation, the cover plate 112 is locked inside the port of the U-shaped protective component 11.

[0039] Combination Figures 1 to 5 As shown, it should be noted that the size of the application document is selected according to the actual needs of the site. Before implementation, the steering shaft 3 and output shaft 2 are connected to the motor and mechanical equipment respectively. In addition, the torque sensor body 4 is existing technology and its working principle has been disclosed. The application document only makes improvements and innovations for the situation where the connection is not tight and may fall off.

[0040] The working principle of this torque sensor for an electric power steering system is as follows:

[0041] In use, the staff inserts the anti-detachment pins 123 at both ends of the torque transmission shaft 42 into the sleeves 121 on the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2 respectively. First, the first locking block 122 in the sleeve 121 is staggered and engaged with the second locking block 124 on each anti-detachment pin 123. Then, each assembly plate 131 and each assembly plate 132 on the sleeve 121 are connected together through the mounting slot 139 and the limiting ring 133 to complete the initial connection.

[0042] Then, the lower halves of the two assembled assembly trays 131 and 132 are respectively inserted into the slots 115 of the semi-circular card holders 113 and 114 on the inner wall of the U-shaped protective component 11. The protective silicone kit 118 is then placed on the torque sensor body 4, and the silicone rod 136 in the opening is inserted into the mounting slot 135, so that the magnetic strip 137 and the silicone rod 136 are attracted and adhered together. At this time, the torque transmission shaft 42 passes through the sealed bearings 134 on both sides of the protective silicone kit 118. The protective silicone kit 118, the sealed bearings 134 and the silicone rod 136 can be used for protection, effectively avoiding corrosion in corrosive environments.

[0043] When the cover plate is closed, the upper parts of assembly disc 131 and assembly disc 2 132 are respectively locked in the slots 115 of the semi-circular bracket 113 and semi-circular bracket 2 114 on the cover plate. After tightening the fixing studs, the assembly disc 131 and assembly disc 2 132 are limited. The above design achieves a double limiting connection, which improves the connection stability and prevents slippage and detachment at the connection between the steering shaft 3 and the output shaft 2 and the torque transmission shaft 42. This effectively ensures the power transmission of the steering system and allows the torque sensor to work normally.

[0044] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical methods of the present invention and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical methods of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical methods of the present invention.

Claims

1. A torque sensor for an electric power steering system, comprising a steering shaft (3), an output shaft (2) and a torque sensor body (4) disposed between the steering shaft (3) and the output shaft (2), wherein the torque sensor body (4) comprises a sensor housing (41) and torque transmission shafts (42) disposed on both sides of the sensor housing (41); Its features are, It also includes an anti-detachment mechanism (1) for mounting the torque sensor body (4). The anti-detachment mechanism (1) includes an anti-detachment component (12). The anti-detachment component (12) includes a sleeve (121) located at the ends of the steering shaft (3) and the output shaft (2), a plurality of locking blocks (122) located in the sleeve (121), anti-detachment pins (123) located at both ends of the torque transmission shaft (42), and a plurality of locking blocks (124) located on each anti-detachment pin (123).

2. The torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anti-detachment mechanism (1) further includes a connecting structure (13), which includes an assembly plate one (131) fitted on each anti-detachment insert (123), an assembly plate two (132) fitted on each sleeve (121), an installation slot (139) provided on the side of each assembly plate one (131), and a limiting retaining ring (133) provided on the side of each assembly plate two (132).

3. The torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The anti-detachment component (12) also includes a U-shaped protective component (11). A cover plate (112) is provided inside the port of the U-shaped protective component (11). Two semi-circular card seats (113) are provided on the inner wall of the cover plate (112). A semi-circular card seat (114) is provided on the inner wall of the U-shaped protective component (11) corresponding to each semi-circular card seat (113). A slot (115) is provided on each semi-circular card seat (113), semi-circular card seat (114) and cover plate (112).

4. A torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cover plate (112) is provided with fixing studs at the positions corresponding to the two semi-circular card seats one (113), and each of the semi-circular card seats one (113) and the semi-circular card seats two (114) is installed by fixing studs.

5. A torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The U-shaped protective component (11) has bending notches (116) on both sides, and each bending notch (116) has a stop block (117) on its side.

6. A torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The U-shaped protective component (11) has mounting grooves (111) extending through both sides.

7. A torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The U-shaped protective component (11) is provided with a protective silicone kit (118), the protective silicone kit (118) is provided with an opening (1181), the protective silicone kit (118) is located between two U-shaped brackets (112), and sealed bearings (134) are provided in the two side ports of the protective silicone kit (118).

8. A torque sensor for an electric power steering system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The protective silicone kit (118) has an installation groove (135) on one side of the inner wall of the opening (1181) and a silicone rod (136) on the other side of the inner wall. A magnetic strip (137) is connected inside the installation groove (135), and a magnetic strip (138) is connected inside the silicone rod (136).

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