Door handle assembly for vehicle door and method of operating same

Abstract

A door handle assembly for a vehicle door is provided. A door handle assembly for a vehicle door having a door surface includes a handle seat, a handle, a drive, a handle shaft, and a transmission. The handle has a retracted position and a deployed position. The handle is flush with respect to the door surface when the handle is in the retracted position. The handle protrudes outwardly relative to the door surface when the handle is in the deployed position. The handle shaft is configured to rotate under the driving of the driving device. The transmission device connects the handle shaft to the handle so that the handle can be driven by the handle shaft to move in parallel relative to the handle base between the retracted position and the unfolded position. When the handle is in the retracted position or the deployed position, in response to the handle shaft rotating a predetermined angle when the operator pushes the handle, the drive device activates to deploy or retract the handle or trigger unlocking of the vehicle door.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a door handle assembly, and more particularly, to a door handle assembly for a vehicle door and a method of operating the same. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle door handle assemblies, such as exterior door handle assemblies, are designed to be gripped by an operator to open or unlock the vehicle door. To this end, the handle in the vehicle door handle assembly extends beyond the vehicle door surface, allowing the operator to grip the handle for these operations. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this application, a door handle assembly for a vehicle door has a door surface. The door handle assembly includes a handle base, a handle, a drive mechanism, a handle shaft, and a transmission mechanism. The handle has a retracted position and an extended position, wherein when the handle is in the retracted position, the handle is flush with the door surface, and when the handle is in the extended position, the handle protrudes outward relative to the door surface. The handle shaft is configured to rotate under the drive of the drive mechanism. The transmission mechanism connects the handle shaft to the handle and the handle base such that the handle can move relative to the handle base between the retracted position and the extended position under the drive of the handle shaft. Furthermore, the transmission mechanism moves to rotate the handle shaft when an operator operates the handle. The drive mechanism is configured to activate in response to the rotation of the handle shaft when the handle is in the retracted or extended position, thereby extending or retracting the handle.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this application, the handle shaft is fixedly connected to the output end of the drive device.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this application, the transmission device includes an X-shaped hinge structure and a transmission member. The X-shaped hinge structure is connected to the handle and the handle seat and is configured to rotate about its axis of rotation to move the handle relative to the handle seat to extend or retract. The transmission member connects the handle shaft to the X-shaped hinge structure such that the X-shaped hinge structure is driven by the handle shaft to rotate under the drive of the drive device, and the X-shaped hinge structure rotates to drive the handle shaft to rotate when the operator operates the handle.

[0006] According to a first aspect of this application, an X-shaped hinge structure includes a first push rod and a second push rod. The first push rod includes a first end and a second end, the first end being slidably connected to the handle seat and the second end being pivotally connected to the handle. The second push rod includes a third end and a fourth end, the third end being slidably connected to the handle and the fourth end being pivotally connected to the handle seat. The first and second push rods rotate about the pivot at their intersection. One end of a transmission member is slidably connected to the second push rod, and the other end of the transmission member is fixedly connected to the handle shaft.

[0007] According to a first aspect of this application, the handle base includes a first connecting groove, and a first connecting pin is provided at the first end of the first push rod, the first connecting pin being configured to slide within the first connecting groove. The handle includes a second connecting groove, and a second connecting pin is provided at the third end of the second push rod, the second connecting pin being configured to slide within the second connecting groove. The second push rod includes a third connecting groove, and a third connecting pin is provided on the transmission member, the third connecting pin being configured to slide within the third connecting groove.

[0008] According to a first aspect of this application, the door handle assembly further includes an unlocking structure configured to be rotated by the X-shaped hinge structure to unlock the vehicle door.

[0009] According to a first aspect of this application, the door handle assembly further includes a push mechanism that connects the handle to the handle seat, such that an operator's push can move the handle in the retracted position to an intermediate extended position between the retracted position and the extended position, or move the handle in the intermediate extended position to the retracted position.

[0010] According to a first aspect of this application, the handle includes a removable handle cover that houses a lock cylinder of the vehicle door, the handle cover being configured to expose the lock cylinder when removed.

[0011] According to a first aspect of this application, the door handle assembly further includes a detection device. The detection device is configured to detect the angle and direction of rotation of the output end of the drive unit for activation of the drive unit or unlocking of the vehicle door.

[0012] According to a first aspect of this application, the door handle assembly further includes a control device. The control device is communicatively connected to the detection device and the drive device. The control device is configured to control the drive device to rotate in a first rotational direction to extend the handle, or to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction to retract the handle, or to control the unlocking of the vehicle door, based on the detected angle and direction of rotation of the drive device.

[0013] According to a second aspect of this application, a method for operating a door handle assembly installed in a vehicle door is provided. The method includes the following steps S1, S2, S3.1, S3.2, and S3.3. In step S1, it is detected whether the handle of the door handle assembly is in a retracted position or an extended position. In step S2, it is detected the angle and direction of rotation of the output of a drive device when the operator operates the handle. In step S3.1, when it is detected that the handle is in the retracted position and the output of the drive device rotates a first predetermined angle along a first rotation direction, the drive device is activated to control the handle to move to the extended position. In step S3.2, when it is detected that the handle is in the extended position and the output of the drive device rotates a second predetermined angle along the first rotation direction, the drive device is activated to control the handle to move to the retracted position. In step S3.3, when it is detected that the handle is in the extended position and the output of the drive device rotates a third predetermined angle along a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the vehicle door is unlocked, and the drive device is activated to control the handle to return to the extended position.

[0014] According to a second aspect of this application, in step S3.1, if a stall signal of the drive device is detected, the drive device controls the handle to return to the retracted position. In step S3.2, if a stall signal of the drive device is detected, the drive device controls the handle to return to the extended position.

[0015] According to a second aspect of this application, the drive device rotates along the first rotation direction to retract the handle and rotates along the second rotation direction to extend the handle.

[0016] According to a third aspect of this application, a door handle assembly for a vehicle door having a door surface is provided. The door handle assembly includes a handle base, a handle, a handle shaft, an X-shaped hinge structure, and a transmission element. The handle has a retracted position and an extended position, wherein when the handle is in the retracted position, the handle is flush with the door surface, and when the handle is in the extended position, the handle protrudes outward relative to the door surface. The handle shaft is configured to rotate under the drive of a drive device. The X-shaped hinge structure is connected to the handle and the handle base and is configured to rotate about its axis of rotation to move the handle relative to the handle base to extend or retract. The transmission element connects the handle shaft to the X-shaped hinge structure such that the X-shaped hinge structure is driven to rotate by the handle shaft under the drive of the drive device, and the X-shaped hinge structure rotates when an operator operates the handle to drive the handle shaft to rotate.

[0017] According to a third aspect of this application, the X-type hinge structure includes a first push rod and a second push rod. The first push rod includes a first end and a second end, the first end being slidably connected to the handle seat and the second end being pivotally connected to the handle. The second push rod includes a third end and a fourth end, the third end being slidably connected to the handle and the fourth end being pivotally connected to the handle seat, the first push rod and the second push rod rotating about the pivot at their intersection. One end of a transmission member is slidably connected to the second push rod, and the other end of the transmission member is fixedly connected to the handle shaft.

[0018] According to a third aspect of this application, the handle base includes a first connecting groove, and a first connecting pin is provided at the first end of the first push rod, the first connecting pin being configured to slide within the first connecting groove. The handle includes a second connecting groove, and a second connecting pin is provided at the third end of the second push rod, the second connecting pin being configured to slide within the second connecting groove. The second push rod includes a third connecting groove, and a third connecting pin is provided on the transmission member, the third connecting pin being configured to slide within the third connecting groove.

[0019] According to a third aspect of this application, the door handle assembly further includes an unlocking structure configured to be rotated by the X-shaped hinge structure to unlock the vehicle door.

[0020] According to a third aspect of this application, the door handle assembly further includes a push mechanism that connects the handle to the handle seat, such that an operator's push can move the handle in the retracted position to an intermediate extended position between the retracted position and the extended position, or move the handle in the intermediate extended position to the retracted position.

[0021] According to a third aspect of this application, the handle includes a removable handle cover that houses a lock cylinder of the vehicle door, the handle cover being configured to expose the lock cylinder when removed.

[0022] According to a third aspect of this application, the handle shaft is fixedly connected to the output end of the drive device. Attached Figure Description

[0023] In the accompanying drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in different figures is indicated by the same reference numerals. For clarity, not every component may be labeled in each drawing. In the accompanying drawings:

[0024] Figure 1A It is a 3D view of a vehicle with door handle components;

[0025] Figure 1B This is a front perspective view of a door handle assembly according to an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 1C yes Figure 1B Rear-view perspective view of the door handle assembly shown;

[0027] Figure 1D yes Figure 1C The door handle assembly shown is a top view of the handle in the retracted position.

[0028] Figure 1E yes Figure 1C The door handle assembly shown is a top view of the handle in the extended position.

[0029] Figure 1F yes Figure 1C The door handle assembly shown is a top view of the handle in the unlocked position.

[0030] Figure 2A yes Figure 1B The exploded front view of the door handle assembly shown.

[0031] Figure 2B yes Figure 1B The exploded rear view of the door handle assembly shown.

[0032] Figure 2C This is a perspective view of the door handle assembly, showing the unlocking structure 125 and the door lock connection structure 115 assembled together from a first angle.

[0033] Figure 2D This is a perspective view of the door handle assembly, showing the unlocking structure 125 and the door lock connection structure 115 assembled together from a second angle.

[0034] Figure 3A yes Figure 1DThe door handle assembly shown is a cross-sectional view along the first section line when the handle is in the retracted position;

[0035] Figure 3B yes Figure 1D The door handle assembly shown is a cross-sectional view along the second section line when the handle is in the retracted position;

[0036] Figure 3C yes Figure 1E The door handle assembly shown is a cross-sectional view with the handle in the extended position.

[0037] Figure 3D yes Figure 1F The door handle assembly shown is a cross-sectional view with the handle in the unlocked position.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of elements in a door handle assembly communicating with a control device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method for operating a door handle assembly according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A block diagram of one embodiment of the control device shown. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Various specific embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this specification. It should be understood that although terms indicating direction, such as "front," "rear," "up," "down," "left," and "right," are used herein to describe various exemplary structural parts and elements, their use is merely for illustrative purposes and is based on the exemplary orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. Since the embodiments disclosed herein can be arranged in different orientations, these terms indicating direction are illustrative only and should not be considered limiting.

[0042] Figure 1A A perspective view of a vehicle 100 with a door handle assembly 110 is shown. Figure 1B and 1C The overall structure of a door handle assembly 110 according to an embodiment of this application is shown, wherein, Figure 1B This is a front-view stereoscopic view of door handle assembly 110. Figure 1C This is a rear-view perspective view of the door handle assembly 110. Figure 1D yes Figure 1C The door handle assembly shown is a top view of the handle in the retracted position. Figure 1E yes Figure 1C The door handle assembly shown is a top view with the handle in the extended position. Figure 1Fyes Figure 1C The door handle assembly shown is a top view of the handle in the unlocked position.

[0043] like Figure 1A As shown, vehicle 100 has a vehicle door 101, and vehicle door 101 has an outer door surface 102. Door handle assembly 100 is a concealed door handle assembly, which is installed in vehicle door 101. The handle 111 in door handle assembly 110 (see...) Figure 1B-1F The handle 111 has a retracted position and an extended position. When the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the handle 111 is flush with the outer door surface 102 of the vehicle, and the handle 111 is therefore hidden in the vehicle door 101, and the operator cannot pull the handle 111. When the handle 111 is in the extended position, the handle 111 protrudes outward relative to the outer door surface 102 of the vehicle, so that the operator can pull the handle 111.

[0044] like Figure 1B and 1C As shown, the door handle assembly 110 includes a handle 111 and a handle base 112. The handle base 112 is mounted to the vehicle door 101. The handle 111 is mounted on the handle base 112 from the front side of the handle base 112. The handle 111 is movable relative to the handle base 112, thus having a retracted position and an extended position.

[0045] Figure 1D and 1E The two states of handle 111 are shown, in which, Figure 1D This is a top view of the door handle assembly 110 when the handle 111 is in the retracted position. Figure 1E This is a top view of the door handle assembly 110 when the handle 111 is in the extended position. (See attached image.) Figure 1D As shown, when the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the handle 111, except for the portion flush with the outer door surface 102 of the vehicle, is accommodated in the handle seat 112. Figure 1E As shown, a grip portion 117 is formed on the handle 111. When the handle 111 is in the extended position, the grip portion 117 extends out from the handle base 112, so that the operator can put his hand into the grip portion 117 to pull the handle 111.

[0046] In addition to the retracted and extended positions, handle 111 also includes other positions. For example, as... Figure 1D As shown, when handle 111 is in the retracted position, pressing handle 111 causes it to move inward toward handle seat 112 to reach the unfolding trigger position. In the unfolding trigger position, the drive mechanism can be triggered to begin driving handle 111 to move relative to handle seat 112 to unfold. When handle 111 is in the unfolding trigger position, the entire handle 111 is accommodated in handle seat 112, and handle 111 is recessed inward relative to the outer door surface 102 of the vehicle.

[0047] And, as Figure 1E As shown, when handle 111 is in the extended position, pulling handle 111 will cause it to move outward toward handle seat 112, thereby reaching... Figure 1F The unlock location is shown. For example... Figure 1F As shown, in the unlocked position, handle 111 is further extended so that most of it is exposed outside handle seat 112. Handle 111 in this unlocked position can trigger the vehicle door lock to open. And, as... Figure 1E As shown, when handle 111 is in the extended position, pressing handle 111 by the operator will cause handle 111 to move toward the inside of handle seat 112 to reach the retraction trigger position. In the retraction trigger position, the drive mechanism can be triggered to start driving handle 111 to move relative to handle seat 112 to retract.

[0048] Figure 2A and 2B The specific structure of the door handle assembly 110 is shown in the front and rear exploded views, respectively. For example... Figure 2A and 2B As shown, in addition to the handle base 112 and the handle 111, the door handle assembly 110 also includes a drive unit 113, a handle shaft 118, a transmission device (which includes a transmission component 126 and an X-type hinge structure 129), a lock cylinder 116, an unlocking structure 125, a door lock connection structure 115, and a push structure 120.

[0049] The drive unit 113 is, for example, a motor or an actuator including a motor. The handle shaft 118 rotates under the drive of the drive unit 113. One end of the handle shaft 118 is fixedly connected to the output end 119 of the drive unit 113. The other end of the handle shaft 118 is fixedly connected to a transmission device. The transmission device (including a transmission element 126 and an X-shaped hinge structure 129) connects the handle shaft 118 to the handle 111 and the handle seat 112, such that the handle 111 can move between a retracted position and an extended position under the drive of the handle shaft 118, and the transmission device can move when the operator operates the handle 111 to rotate the handle shaft 118, thereby rotating the output end 119 of the drive unit 113. The X-shaped hinge structure 129 in the transmission device connects the handle 111 and the handle seat 112 and is configured to rotate about its axis of rotation 130 to move the handle 111 relative to the handle seat 112 to extend or retract. The transmission component 126 in the transmission device connects the handle shaft 118 to the X-type hinge structure 129, so that the X-type hinge structure 129 is driven to rotate by the handle shaft 118 under the drive of the drive device 113, and the X-type hinge structure 129 rotates when the operator operates the handle 111 to drive the handle shaft 118 to rotate, thereby driving the output end 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate.

[0050] like Figure 2A and 2B As shown, the handle base 112 includes a cavity 156, and the handle 111 can be disposed within the cavity 156. A slot 144 is provided on the side wall of the handle 111. A through hole 154 is provided on the corresponding side wall of the handle base 112. The handle 111 includes a cavity 157, which is disposed in the portion of the handle 111 other than the grip portion 117. The transmission component 126 and the X-type hinge structure 129 in the transmission device can be disposed within the cavity 157. When the handle 111 is disposed within the cavity 156 of the handle base 112, and the transmission component 126 and the X-type hinge structure 129 are disposed within the cavity 157, one end 127 of the transmission component 126 passes sequentially through the slot 144 of the handle 111 and the through hole 154 of the handle base 112, extending to the outside of the handle base 112, thereby being fixedly connected to the other end of the handle shaft 118.

[0051] The X-shaped hinge structure 129 includes a first push rod 139 and a second push rod 140, which rotate about a pivot 130 at their intersection. The first push rod 139 includes a first end 131 and a second end 132, the first end 131 being slidably connected to a handle seat 112, and the second end 132 being pivotally connected to a handle 111. The second push rod 140 includes a third end 133 and a fourth end 134, the third end 133 being slidably connected to the handle 111, and the fourth end 134 being pivotally connected to the handle seat 112. Compared to the first push rod 139, the second push rod 140 is located closer to the slotted sidewall of the handle 111 within the cavity 157 of the handle 111. One end 128 of a transmission member 126 is slidably connected to the second push rod 140, while the other end 127 of the transmission member 126 is fixedly connected to a handle shaft 118. The second push rod 140 includes a third connecting groove 148. The end 128 of the transmission member 126 is provided with a third connecting pin 153, which is configured to slide within a third connecting groove 148. In one embodiment, such as Figure 2B As shown in the enlarged view (which shows a portion of the structure of the second push rod 140 from another angle), the second push rod 140 has a cavity 158 extending along its extension direction and configured to receive at least a portion of the transmission member 126, including an end 128 of the transmission member 126. The cavity 158 communicates with a third connecting groove 148. The third connecting groove 148 may be two opposing grooves. The end 128 of the transmission member 126 is movable within the cavity 158 such that a third connecting pin 153 is located on the end 128. This configuration makes the door handle assembly 110 more compact. In other embodiments, the second push rod 140 may not have the cavity 158, and the transmission member 126 may be disposed outside the second push rod 140.

[0052] The handle base 112 includes a first connecting groove 152. A first end 131 of the first push rod 139 of the X-shaped hinge structure 129 is provided with a first connecting pin 135, which is configured to slide within the first connecting groove 152 of the handle base 112. In one embodiment, the first connecting groove 152 is located on a protrusion 151 at the bottom of the handle base 112. In other embodiments, the first connecting groove 152 can be provided with other suitable structures. The handle 111 includes a second connecting groove 141. A third end 133 of the second push rod 140 of the X-shaped hinge structure 129 is provided with a second connecting pin 137, which is configured to slide within the second connecting groove 141. In one embodiment, the second connecting groove 141 is located on a protrusion on the upper side of the handle 111. In other embodiments, the second connecting groove 141 can be provided with other suitable structures. The handle 111 includes a first pivot hole 149. The second end 132 of the first push rod 139 of the X-type hinge structure 129 is provided with a fourth connecting pin 136, which is configured to pivot in the first pivot hole 149 of the handle 111. In one embodiment, the first pivot hole 149 is provided on a protrusion on the lower side of the handle 111. In other embodiments, the first pivot hole 149 can be provided by other suitable structures. The handle seat 112 includes a second pivot hole 147. The second end 134 of the second push rod 140 of the X-type hinge structure 129 is provided with a fifth connecting pin 138, which is configured to pivot in the second pivot hole 147 of the handle seat 112. In one embodiment, the second pivot hole 147 is provided on a protrusion 146 at the bottom of the handle seat 112. In other embodiments, the second pivot hole 147 can be provided by other suitable structures.

[0053] The arrangement of the first connecting groove 152, the second connecting groove 141, the third connecting groove 148, the first pivot hole 149, and the second pivot hole 147 allows the handle 111 to retract or extend parallel to the handle seat 112. That is, when the handle 111 moves relative to the handle seat 112, its surface always remains parallel to or coincident with its initial position, and the rotational motion of the drive device 113 is converted into parallel motion of the handle 111 relative to the handle seat 112. In one embodiment, the first connecting groove 152 is a straight groove, the second connecting groove 141 is a specific curved groove, and the third connecting groove 148 is a specific curved groove. Furthermore, through the aforementioned configuration of the X-shaped hinge structure 129, the transmission member 126, the handle 111, and the handle base 112, when the drive device 113 is activated to drive the handle shaft 118 to rotate, the transmission member 126 is driven to rotate by the handle shaft 118. Consequently, the second push rod 140 of the X-shaped hinge structure 129 is driven by the transmission member 126 to rotate around the pivot 130, and the first push rod 139 of the X-shaped hinge structure 129 rotates accordingly around the pivot 130, thereby causing the handle 111 to move relative to the handle base 112 to retract or extend. Moreover, when the operator moves the handle 111 relative to the handle base 112, the X-shaped hinge structure 129 moves accordingly to drive the transmission member 126 to rotate via the second push rod 140, which in turn drives the handle shaft 118 to rotate, ultimately driving the drive device 113 (e.g., its output end 119) to rotate. In other embodiments, the X-shaped hinge structure 129, transmission member 126, handle 111, and handle base 112 can have other suitable structures to implement the above functions. The structural arrangement of the transmission member 126 and the X-shaped hinge structure 129 realizes the linkage between the drive device 113 and the handle 111. When the operator operates the handle 111 to trigger the retraction or unfolding of the handle or the unlocking of the vehicle door, this application determines the movement state or position of the handle 111 through the rotational movement of the drive device 113, and then activates the drive device 113 to retract or unfold the handle 111 or control the door lock switch 403 (see Figure 4 Open to unlock vehicle door 101.

[0054] In addition to the electrically unlocked vehicle door described above, this application can also mechanically unlock the vehicle door, for example, by moving the unlocking structure 125 and the door lock connecting structure 115. The unlocking structure 125 is fixedly connected to the door lock connecting structure 115, which is connected to a cable (not shown) for unlocking the vehicle door 101. The unlocking structure 125 is rotated by the X-shaped hinge structure 129, which in turn rotates the door lock connecting structure 115, thereby causing the door lock connecting structure 115 to move the cable to mechanically unlock the vehicle door 101. When the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the unlocking structure 125 is not engaged with the X-shaped hinge structure 129. When the handle 111 is in the extended position, the unlocking structure 125 engages with the second push rod 140 of the X-shaped hinge structure 129. When the operator pulls the handle 111 in the extended position, the second push rod 140 rotates, causing the unlocking structure 125 to rotate, which in turn rotates the door lock connecting structure 115 to move the cable, thereby unlocking the vehicle door 101.

[0055] When the handle 111 experiences an electrical failure and cannot be unfolded electrically (e.g., using a drive device 113), this application utilizes a push structure 120 to mechanically pop out (unfold) the handle 111. The push structure 120 connects the handle 111 to the handle base 112, allowing the operator's push to move the handle 111 from its retracted position to an intermediate unfolded position between the retracted and unfolded positions, or to move the handle 111 from its intermediate unfolded position back to its retracted position. In one embodiment, the push structure 120 has a structure similar to a ballpoint pen ejector, enabling the push-out function. A base 142 is disposed within the cavity 157 of the handle 111, and an elastic element (not shown), such as a spring, is disposed within the base 142. One end of the push structure 120 is partially accommodated in the base 142 and abuts against the elastic element within the base 142, while the other end of the push structure 120 abuts against the bottom of the handle base 112. In one embodiment, the base 142 is a cylindrical boss with a cavity for accommodating the elastic element and the push structure 120. In other embodiments, other suitable push structures 120 may be used.

[0056] When handle 111 is in the retracted position, the operator presses handle 111 so that push mechanism 120 is pressed inward. Push mechanism 120 can push handle 111 outward (in the opposite direction of pressing) a short distance relative to handle seat 112 to expose handle 111. At this time, the operator can pull handle 111 to pull it further outward to expose grip portion 117. The operator holds grip portion 117 to pull handle 111 outward to the unlock position, actuating unlocking mechanism (e.g., pulling a cable) to unlock vehicle door 101. The operator can then open vehicle door 101. This emergency door opening function is reusable. When the operator pushes handle 111 from the unlock position to the retracted position and further inward a short distance, push mechanism 120 moves to its initial state to hold handle 111 in the retracted position. Therefore, when it is necessary to open the vehicle door 101 in an emergency, the push mechanism 120 can be operated again as described above to press the pop-out handle 111.

[0057] This application also provides another emergency opening function for the vehicle door 101, namely, opening the vehicle door 101 using a mechanical key. As previously mentioned, the compact X-shaped hinge structure inside the handle provides sufficient space inside the handle to accommodate the lock cylinder. The handle 111 includes a removable handle cover 114. Figure 2A and 2B A handle cover 114 detached from the handle 111 is shown. The handle 111 includes a coupling 143 configured to engage with a corresponding component (not shown) on the handle cover 114 to allow the handle cover 114 to be detachably mounted to the handle 111. A first receiving portion 145 is provided within a cavity 156 of the handle seat 112 for receiving a lock cylinder 116. The lock cylinder 116 can be opened with a mechanical key to unlock the vehicle door 101. The lock cylinder 116 is exposed for operator use after the handle cover 114 is removed from the handle 111. In operation, the operator presses the handle 111 in the retracted position, and then pushes the handle 111 outward (in the opposite direction of pressing) a short distance using a push mechanism 120. The operator then removes the handle cover 114 and pushes the handle 111 back to the retracted position, inserting a mechanical key into the lock cylinder 116 to open the vehicle door 101.

[0058] Figure 2C The image shows a perspective view of the unlocking structure 125 and the door lock connection structure 115 assembled together, viewed from a first angle. Figure 2DThe diagram shows a perspective view from a second angle of the unlocking mechanism 125 and the door lock connection structure 115 assembled together in the door handle assembly. As previously described, when the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the unlocking mechanism 125 does not engage with the X-hing structure 129, and it is necessary to hold the unlocking mechanism 125 in its initial position to prevent it from loosening. The door lock connection structure 115 remains fixed to the handle seat 112 in its initial position so that the unlocking mechanism 125 remains in its initial position without loosening when not engaged with the X-hing structure 129.

[0059] like Figure 2C-2D as well as Figure 1B-1C As shown, the unlocking structure 125 includes a main body 123 and a connecting portion 124. The connecting portion 124 is capable of engaging with an X-shaped hinge structure 129. The main body 123 is generally cylindrical. The unlocking structure 125 is rotatable about the central axis of the main body 123. The connecting portion 124 extends from one end of the main body 123. The other end of the main body 123 is fixedly connected to a door lock connection structure 115. According to the lever principle, the distance from the end 121 of the connecting portion 124 that engages with the X-shaped hinge structure 129 to the central axis of the main body 123 is greater than the radius of the main body 123, for example, approximately twice the radius, so that a smaller force is applied to this end 121 to drive the unlocking structure 125 to rotate, thereby unlocking the vehicle door.

[0060] The door lock connection structure 115 includes a main body 159 and a retaining part. The retaining part can hold the door lock connection structure 115 in an initial position, for example, biased fixed, to the handle seat 112. The main body 159 is generally cylindrical. The door lock connection structure 115 is rotatable about the central axis of the main body 159. One end of the main body 159 is fixedly connected to the other end of the main body 123 of the unlocking structure 125. For example, matching circumferentially arranged tooth structures 122A and 122B are provided at the connection between the main body 159 and the main body 123, so that the door lock connection structure 115 can be rotated when the unlocking structure 125 rotates. For example, as... Figure 2C-2D as well as Figure 1B-1CAs shown, the retaining portion of the door lock connection structure 115 includes a torsion spring 160 and a protrusion 161. The protrusion 161 extends radially from the side wall of the main body 159. The torsion spring 160 is arranged around the main body 159, with one end 165 abutting against the protrusion 161 and the other end 166 abutting against the protrusion 163 on the handle seat 112, such that the main body 159 of the door lock connection structure 115 is held fixed in the initial position on the handle seat 112, that is, the unlocking structure 125 is held in the initial position without loosening. For example, the end 165 of the torsion spring 159 is received in the recess 162 of the protrusion 161, and the end 166 of the torsion spring 159 is received in the recess 164 of the protrusion 163. The protrusion 162 is provided on the outer housing of the handle seat 112. In the initial position, the torsion spring 159 is biased, for example compressed, to bias and hold the main body 159 of the door lock connection structure 115 onto the handle seat 112. This bias produces a small biasing force, allowing the operator to easily rotate the unlocking structure 125 to unlock the vehicle door 101 by pulling the handle 111 when unlocking is required. When the operator pulls the handle 111 in the extended position, the second push rod 140 of the X-shaped hinge structure 129 rotates to rotate the unlocking structure 125 (see [link]). Figure 1C and Figure 2C-2D (As shown in the counterclockwise direction), the door lock connection structure 115 rotates against the restoring force of the torsion spring to drive the pull cable, thereby unlocking the vehicle door 101. Through the cooperation of the unlocking structure 125 and the door lock connection structure 115 with the X-shaped hinge structure 129, this application enables the operation of the handle 111 to mechanically unlock the vehicle door 101. The unlocking structure 125 and the door lock connection structure 115 can be integrally formed; for example, the main body 123 and the main body 159 can be a single component. In other embodiments, the door handle assembly 110 includes other suitable structures to implement the above functions.

[0061] Figures 3A-3D The assembly relationship of each component of the door handle assembly 110 at various locations is shown, wherein, Figure 3A yes Figure 1D The door handle assembly 110 shown is a cross-sectional view along the first section line when the handle 111 is in the retracted position;

[0062] Figure 3B yes Figure 1D The door handle assembly 110 shown is a cross-sectional view along the second section line when the handle 111 is in the retracted position; Figure 3C yes Figure 1E The door handle assembly 110 shown is a cross-sectional view of the handle 111 in the extended position; Figure 3D yes Figure 1F The door handle assembly 110 shown is a cross-sectional view of the handle 111 in the unlocked position.

[0063] like Figures 3A-3B As shown, when the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the first connecting pin 135 of the first end 131 of the first push rod 139 is located to the left of the first connecting groove 152 on the protrusion 151 of the handle seat 112, and the fourth connecting pin 136 of the second end 132 of the first push rod 139 is pivotable in the first pivot hole 149 (not shown) of the handle 111. The second connecting pin 137 of the third end 133 of the second push rod 140 is located to the left of the second connecting groove 141 on the upper side of the handle 111, and the fifth connecting pin 138 of the fourth end 134 of the second push rod 140 is pivotable in the second pivot hole 147 (not shown) on the protrusion 146 of the handle seat 112. The third connecting pin 153 of the end 128 of the transmission member 126 is located to the right of the third connecting groove 148 of the second push rod 140. The unlocking structure 125 is located above the second push rod 140 but does not engage with the second push rod 140. The upper end of the push structure 120 is received and abuts against the base 142 of the handle 111.

[0064] When the drive unit 113 drives the handle 111 from Figures 3A-3B The retraction position towards Figure 3C When the handle 111 is in the unfolded position, the end 128 of the transmission member 126 is driven counterclockwise by the drive device 113. Subsequently, the third connecting pin 153 of the end 128 of the transmission member 126 drives the second push rod 140 to pivot about the fifth connecting pin 138, and the second connecting pin 137 of the second push rod 140 moves toward the right side of the second connecting groove 141 of the handle 111. Correspondingly, the first push rod 139 pivots about the fourth connecting pin 136, and the first connecting pin 135 of the first push rod 139 moves toward the right side of the second connecting groove 141 of the handle 111. When the operator moves the handle 111 from... Figures 3A-3B The retraction position towards Figure 3C When the handle 111 moves to the unfolded position, it unfolds outward to drive the first push rod 139 and the second push rod 140 to perform the aforementioned movement, and the second push rod 140 drives the end 128 of the transmission member 126 to rotate counterclockwise through the third connecting groove 148. When the handle 111 moves from the unfolded position... Figure 3C The unfolding position towards Figures 3A-3B When the door handle assembly 110 moves to the retracted position, each component performs the operation opposite to the above operation.

[0065] like Figure 3CAs shown, when the handle 111 is in the extended position, the third connecting pin 153 of the end 128 of the transmission member 126 is located approximately in the middle of the third connecting groove 148 of the second push rod 140, the first connecting pin 135 of the first push rod 139 is located approximately in the middle of the first connecting groove 152 of the handle seat 112, and the second connecting pin 137 of the second push rod 140 is located to the right of the second connecting groove 141 of the handle 111. The end 121 of the unlocking structure 125 begins to engage with the second push rod 140. The upper end of the push structure 120 separates from the base 142 of the handle 111.

[0066] When the operator removes handle 111 Figure 3C The unfolding position towards Figure 3D When the handle 111 is in the unlocked position, it extends further outward to drive the first push rod 139 to pivot around the fourth connecting pin 136, and the first connecting pin 135 of the first push rod 139 moves further toward the right side of the second connecting groove 141 of the handle 111, thereby driving the second push rod 140 to pivot around the fifth connecting pin 138, and the second connecting pin 137 of the second push rod 140 moves further toward the right side of the second connecting groove 141 of the handle 111. The second push rod 140 also drives the end 128 of the transmission member 126 to rotate further counterclockwise via the third connecting groove 148. The unlocking structure 125 is driven by the second push rod 140 to rotate clockwise, thereby unlocking the vehicle door 101 via the door lock connection structure 115.

[0067] like Figure 3D As shown, when the handle 111 is in the unlocked position, the third connecting pin 153 of the end 128 of the transmission member 126 is located to the left of the third connecting groove 148 of the second push rod 140, the first connecting pin 135 of the first push rod 139 is located to the right of the first connecting groove 152 of the handle seat 112, and the second connecting pin 137 of the second push rod 140 is located to the right of the second connecting groove 141 of the handle 111. The unlocking structure 125 (e.g., its end 121) engages with the second push rod 140 and rotates to the unlocked position, at which point the vehicle door 101 is unlocked. The upper end of the push structure 120 remains separated from the base 142 of the handle 111.

[0068] Although specific rotational directions, such as clockwise and counterclockwise, have been described above, other suitable structures of the X-hinged structure 129 and the transmission element 126 may allow the relevant components to rotate in other rotational directions to perform the functions described above.

[0069] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of elements in a door handle assembly 110 communicating with a control device 401 according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 4As shown, the drive unit 113 of the door handle assembly 110 includes a first detection device 402. The door handle assembly 110 also includes a control device 401, a door lock switch 403, and a second detection device 404. The drive unit 113, the door lock switch 403, and the second detection device 404 are all communicatively connected to the control device 401.

[0070] The control device 401 controls the drive device 113 to rotate along a first rotation direction or a second rotation direction, thereby driving the handle 111 to retract or extend. Furthermore, the control device 401 can monitor the drive device 113 and receive rotation direction and angle signals from the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113. Based on these rotation direction and angle signals, it obtains the positions of the drive device 113 and the handle 111, and performs the necessary control on the drive device 113 to control the movement of the handle 111. For example, when the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the drive device 113 is in its initial position, and the initial angle of its output terminal 119 is 0 degrees; when the handle 111 moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the drive device 113 is in the extended position, and the rotation angle of its output terminal 119 is, for example, 60 degrees. When the handle 111 moves from the retracted position to the unfolded trigger position, the drive device 113 (e.g., its output terminal 119) rotates relative to the initial position along the first rotation direction by a first predetermined angle (e.g., greater than 1 degree); when the handle 111 moves from the unfolded position to the retracted trigger position, the drive device 113 (e.g., its output terminal 119) rotates relative to the unfolded position along the first rotation direction by a second predetermined angle (e.g., greater than 2 degrees); when the handle 111 moves from the unfolded position to the unlocked position, the drive device 113 (e.g., its output terminal 119) rotates relative to the unfolded position along the second rotation direction by a third predetermined angle (e.g., greater than 5 degrees).

[0071] To this end, the drive device 113 is provided with a first detection device 402 for detecting or acquiring the rotation angle of the output end 119 of the drive device 113. In some embodiments, the first detection device 402 includes, for example, multiple position sensors, which can detect whether the output end 119 of the drive device 113 has reached a retracted position, an extended position, an unlocked position, a retracted trigger position, an extended trigger position, etc., and send the detected signal to the control device 401. In some embodiments, the first detection device 402 is, for example, an encoder, and the rotation angle of the output end 119 of the drive device 113 can be obtained through the pulse signal output by the encoder.

[0072] In some embodiments, regarding the rotation direction of the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113, if the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 rotates under the control of the control device 401, the control device 401 can obtain the rotation direction information of the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 by controlling the direction of the current. If the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 rotates in response to the handle shaft 118 rotating by a predetermined angle when the operator operates the handle 111, then the drive device 113 generates a reverse excitation current, and the control device 401 can obtain the rotation direction information of the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 by controlling the direction of the reverse excitation current. For this purpose, a second detection device 404 is also provided in the door handle assembly 110. The second detection device 404 can detect the reverse excitation current generated by the drive device 113 and send a signal to the control device 401 so that the control device 401 obtains the rotation direction information of the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113.

[0073] Furthermore, the second detection device 404 can also detect the current generated by the drive device 113 to obtain a stall signal of the drive device 113. For example, the stall signal of the drive device 113 can be obtained by detecting whether the current of the drive device 113 exceeds a certain threshold and persists for a certain period of time. The control device 401 obtains the stall signal of the drive device 113 from the second detection device 404 to reverse the drive device 113, thereby preventing the drive device from still rotating in the original direction and clamping the object when the handle is blocked by an object (such as a human hand). Therefore, the handle assembly 110 of this application has an anti-pinch function.

[0074] Furthermore, the control device 401 can send an unlocking control signal to the door lock switch 403 based on the received signals of the rotation angle and rotation direction of the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113, so as to control the door lock switch 403 to open and unlock the vehicle door 101.

[0075] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method 500 for operating a door handle assembly 110 according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, in step 502, the method of operating the door handle assembly 110 begins execution, and then the process proceeds from step 502 to step 504. In one embodiment, the control device 401 controls the operation method of the door handle assembly 110 to begin execution.

[0076] In step 504, it is determined whether the handle 111 of the door handle assembly 110 is in a retracted position or an extended position. In one embodiment, the control device 401 determines whether the handle 111 is in a retracted position or an extended position, for example, based on the rotation angle and rotation direction signals of the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113. When it is determined that the handle 111 is in the retracted position, the process proceeds from step 504 to step 506. In step 506, the control device 401 determines whether the operator's operation on the handle 111 causes the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate along a first rotation direction by a first predetermined angle. If the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 rotates along the first rotation direction (e.g., ... Figures 3A-3B If the handle 111 is rotated by a first predetermined angle (e.g., greater than 1 degree) in the clockwise direction shown, it indicates that the operator presses the handle 111 to trigger the handle to unfold, and the process proceeds from step 506 to step 508. In step 508, the control device 401 controls the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate in a second rotation direction (e.g., clockwise direction). Figures 3A-3B The control device 401 rotates the drive device 113 (in a counter-clockwise direction) to drive the handle 111 to unfold, proceeding from step 508 to step 510. In step 510, as the drive device 113 drives the handle 111 from the retracted position to the unfolded position, the control device 401 determines whether the drive device 113 generates a stall signal. If the drive device 113 generates a stall signal, it indicates that the unfolding operation of the handle 111 may hit an object (e.g., a human hand), and the control device 401 proceeds from step 510 to step 512. If the drive device 113 does not generate a stall signal, the control device 401 proceeds from step 510 to step 514. In step 512, the control device 401 controls the drive device 113 to rotate in a first rotation direction opposite to the second rotation direction to drive the handle 111 to retract, thereby preventing the unfolding operation of the handle 111 from hitting an object (e.g., a human hand). Then, the control device 401 proceeds from step 512 to step 532, ending this operation of the handle 111 by the control device 401. In step 514, the control device 401 controls the drive device 113 to continue rotating in the second rotation direction to drive the handle 111 to unfold. Then, the process proceeds from step 514 to step 532, ending the operation of the control device 401 on the handle 111.

[0077] In step 504, when the control device 401 determines that the handle 111 is in the extended position, the process proceeds to step 516. In step 516, the control device 401 determines whether the operator's operation on the handle 111 causes the output end 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate along the first rotation direction by a second predetermined angle, rotate along the second rotation direction by a third predetermined angle, or perform other rotations. If the output end 119 of the drive device 113 rotates along the first rotation direction (e.g., ... Figure 3CIf the handle 111 is rotated by a second predetermined angle (e.g., greater than 2 degrees clockwise) as shown, it indicates that the operator presses the handle 111 to trigger its retraction, and the process proceeds from step 516 to step 518. In step 518, the control device 401 controls the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate along the first rotation direction to drive the handle 111 to retract, and the process proceeds from step 518 to step 520. In step 520, during the process of the drive device 113 driving the handle 111 to move from the extended position to the retracted position, the control device 401 determines whether the drive device 113 generates a stall signal. When the drive device 113 generates a stall signal, it indicates that the retraction operation of the handle 111 may trap an object (e.g., a human hand), and the process proceeds from step 520 to step 522. When the drive device 113 does not generate a stall signal, the process proceeds from step 520 to step 524. In step 522, the control device 401 controls the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate along a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction (e.g., clockwise) as shown. Figure 3C The handle 111 is rotated (counterclockwise as shown) to drive it to unfold, thereby preventing the handle 111 from clamping an object (e.g., a human hand) during retraction. Then, the process proceeds from step 522 to step 532, ending the current operation of the handle 111 by the control device 401. In step 524, the control device 401 controls the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 to continue rotating in the first rotation direction to drive the handle 111 to retract. Then, the process proceeds from step 524 to step 532, ending the current operation of the handle 111 by the control device 401.

[0078] In step 516, when it is determined that the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 has rotated a third predetermined angle (e.g., greater than 5 degrees) along the second rotation direction, it indicates that the operator pulls the handle 111 in the extended position to trigger the electric unlock, and the process proceeds from step 516 to step 526. In step 526, the control device 401 generates an electric unlock control signal, and the process proceeds from step 526 to step 528. In step 528, the control device 401 outputs an electric unlock control signal to the door lock switch 403 to control the door lock switch 403 to open, thereby unlocking the vehicle door 101, and the process proceeds from step 528 to step 530. In step 530, the control device 401 controls the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 to rotate along the first rotation direction (e.g., greater than 5 degrees). Figure 3D The handle 111 is rotated (clockwise as shown) to move from the unlocked position to the unfolded position. After the vehicle door 101 is unlocked, the operator can pull the handle 111 in the unfolded position to open the vehicle door 101. Then, the process proceeds from step 530 to step 532, ending the operation of the handle 111 by the control device 401.

[0079] In step 516, when it is determined that the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 is rotating in another direction, the process switches from step 516 to step 532, ending the current operation of the handle 111 by the control device 401.

[0080] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A block diagram of one embodiment of the control device 401 shown. Figure 6 As shown, the control device 401 includes a bus 601, a processor 602, a memory 603, an input interface 604, and an output interface 605. The processor 602, memory 603, input interface 604, and output interface 605 are connected to the bus 601. The processor 602 can read programs (or instructions) from the memory 603 and execute them to process data. The processor 602 can also write data or programs (or instructions) into the memory 603. The memory 603 can store programs (instructions) or data. By executing the instructions in the memory 603, the processor 602 can control the memory 603, the input interface 604, and the output interface 605.

[0081] The input interface 604 is configured to receive rotation angle data from the output terminal 119 of the drive device 113 acquired by the first detection device 402, and to receive current data generated by the drive device 113 acquired by the second detection device 404. The input interface 604 is also configured to convert the received parameter data into data recognizable by the processor 602, and to output the data to the processor 602.

[0082] The processor 602 is configured to process (e.g., calculate) the received data to generate a control signal. In one embodiment, the processor 602 processes data on the rotation angle of the output 119 of the drive device 113 and data on the current generated by the drive device 113 to generate a control signal to perform the steps in the aforementioned method 500.

[0083] Output interface 605 is configured to receive control signals from processor 602, convert the control signals into signals for drive device 113, and send control signals to drive device 113 to control drive device 113 to operate to extend or retract handle 111 or control the operation of door lock switch 403.

[0084] According to one aspect of this application, the door handle assembly includes an X-shaped hinge structure and a transmission member. One end of the transmission member is fixedly connected to a drive device, while the other end is movably connected to the X-shaped hinge structure. The X-shaped hinge structure is movably connected to the handle and the handle seat, enabling the rotational motion of the drive device to be converted into the motion of the X-shaped hinge structure, and further into the parallel movement of the handle relative to the handle seat. Therefore, this application can realize the parallel movements of the handle's unfolding, retraction, and unlocking.

[0085] According to another aspect of this application, the X-shaped hinge structure and transmission component structure of this application also allow the operator's operation of the handle to be converted into the rotational motion of the drive device, that is, the handle and the drive device are linked. This application activates the drive device to unfold or retract the handle or operate the door lock switch to unlock the vehicle door in response to the drive device rotating a predetermined angle in a predetermined direction when the operator operates the handle. Therefore, the door handle assembly of this application does not require additional electronic components, such as capacitors, microswitches, or other sensors, for sensing the operator's actions of unfolding or retracting the handle or unlocking the vehicle door. Thus, the door handle assembly of this application achieves the unfolding and retraction of a concealed door handle and the unlocking of the vehicle door with fewer components and a simpler appearance.

[0086] According to another aspect of this application, an unlocking structure is also provided, which, when the operator pulls the handle in the extended position, causes the X-shaped hinge structure to rotate, thereby driving the unlocking structure to move and mechanically unlocking the vehicle door. Furthermore, as mentioned above, this application can also respond to the drive device rotating a predetermined angle in a predetermined direction when the operator operates the handle, causing the door lock switch to open to electronically unlock the vehicle door. Therefore, this application can be adapted to both mechanical and electronic door locks on the same platform, enabling both mechanical and electronic unlocking of vehicle doors.

[0087] According to another aspect of this application, the application also enables the emergency opening of vehicle doors via a push-pull structure.

[0088] According to another aspect of this application, the structure of the transmission device between the handle and the drive unit in the door handle assembly of this application is simplified, thus realizing the unfolding and retraction of the concealed door handle and the unlocking of the vehicle door with a simpler mechanical structure.

[0089] Although this application has been described with reference to examples of the embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalents, whether known or currently or soon to be foreseen, will likely be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the technical effects and / or technical problems described herein are exemplary and not limiting; therefore, the disclosures herein may be used to solve other technical problems and have other technical effects and / or can solve other technical problems. Thus, the examples of embodiments of this application as set forth above are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is intended to include all known or previously developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantially equivalents.

Claims

1. A door handle assembly for a vehicle door (101), the vehicle door (101) having a door surface (102), the door handle assembly comprising: Handle base (112); The handle (111) has a retracted position and an extended position, wherein when the handle (111) is in the retracted position, the handle (111) is flush with the door surface (102), and when the handle (111) is in the extended position, the handle (111) protrudes outward relative to the door surface (102). Drive unit (113); A handle shaft (118) configured to rotate under the drive of the drive unit (113); and Transmission devices (126, 129), The transmission devices (126, 129) connect the handle shaft (118) to the handle (111) and the handle seat (112), such that the handle (111) can move relative to the handle seat (112) between the retracted position and the extended position under the drive of the handle shaft (118), and the transmission devices (126, 129) move to drive the handle shaft (118) to rotate when the operator operates the handle (111); and The drive device (113) is configured such that when the handle (111) is in the retracted or extended position, the drive device (113) is activated in response to the rotation of the handle shaft (118) when the operator operates the handle (111) to extend or retract the handle (111).

2. The door handle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the handle shaft (118) is fixedly connected to the output end (119) of the drive device (113).

3. The door handle assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The transmission device (126, 129) includes: An X-shaped hinge structure (129) is connected to the handle (111) and the handle seat (112) and is configured to rotate about its axis of rotation (130) to allow the handle (111) to move relative to the handle seat (112) to extend or retract; and A transmission component (126) connects the handle shaft (118) to the X-shaped hinge structure (129) so that the X-shaped hinge structure (129) is driven to rotate by the handle shaft (118) under the drive of the drive device (113), and the X-shaped hinge structure (129) rotates to drive the handle shaft (118) to rotate when the operator operates the handle (111).

4. The door handle assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The X-shaped hinge structure (129) includes: A first push rod (139), the first push rod (139) including a first end (131) and a second end (132), the first end (131) being slidably connected to the handle seat (112), and the second end (132) being pivotally connected to the handle (111); and A second push rod (140) includes a third end (133) and a fourth end (134), the third end (133) being slidably connected to the handle (111) and the fourth end (134) being pivotally connected to the handle seat (112), the first push rod (139) and the second push rod (140) rotating about the pivot (130) at their intersection. One end (128) of the transmission member (126) is slidably connected to the second push rod (140), and the other end (127) of the transmission member (126) is fixedly connected to the handle shaft (118).

5. The door handle assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The handle seat (112) includes a first connecting groove (152), and the first end (131) of the first push rod (139) is provided with a first connecting pin (135), which is configured to slide in the first connecting groove (152). The handle (111) includes a second connecting groove (141), and the third end (133) of the second push rod (140) is provided with a second connecting pin (137), the second connecting pin (137) being configured to slide within the second connecting groove (141); and The second push rod (140) includes a third connecting groove (148), and a third connecting pin (153) is provided on the transmission member (126), the third connecting pin (153) being configured to slide within the third connecting groove (148).

6. The door handle assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The door handle assembly also includes: An unlocking structure (125) is configured to be rotated by the X-shaped hinge structure (129) to unlock the vehicle door (101).

7. The door handle assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The door handle assembly also includes: A push structure (120) connects the handle (111) to the handle seat (112) so that an operator's push can move the handle (111) from the retracted position to an intermediate unfolded position between the retracted position and the unfolded position, or move the handle (111) from the intermediate unfolded position to the retracted position.

8. The door handle assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The handle (111) includes a removable handle cover (114) that houses the lock cylinder (116) of the vehicle door (101), the handle cover (114) being configured to expose the lock cylinder (116) when removed.

9. The door handle assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The door handle assembly also includes: A detection device (402) is configured to detect the angle and direction of rotation of the output terminal (119) of the drive device (113) for starting the drive device (113) or unlocking the vehicle door (101).

10. The door handle assembly according to claim 9, wherein, The door handle assembly also includes: A control device (401) is communicatively connected to the detection device (402) and the drive device (113). The control device (401) is configured to control the drive device (113) to rotate in a first rotation direction to unfold the handle (111), or to rotate in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction to retract the handle (111), or to control the unlocking of the vehicle door (101), based on the detected angle and direction of rotation of the drive device (113).

11. A method (500) for operating a door handle assembly installed in a vehicle door (101), the method (500) comprising the following steps: S1: Detect whether the handle (111) of the door handle assembly is in the retracted position or the extended position; S2: Detect the angle and direction of rotation of the output end (119) of the drive device (113) when the operator operates the handle (111); S3.1: When it is detected that the handle (111) is in the retracted position and the output end (119) of the drive device (113) rotates a first predetermined angle in the first rotation direction, the drive device (113) is activated to control the handle (111) to move to the unfolded position; S3.2: When it is detected that the handle (111) is in the extended position and the output end (119) of the drive device (113) rotates a second predetermined angle along the first rotation direction, the drive device (113) is activated to control the handle (111) to move to the retracted position; S3.3: When the handle (111) is detected to be in the unfolded position and the output end (119) of the drive device (113) rotates a third predetermined angle in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the vehicle door (101) is unlocked and the drive device (113) is activated to control the handle (111) to return to the unfolded position.

12. The method (500) according to claim 11, wherein: In step S3.1, if a stall signal is detected in the drive device (113), the drive device (113) controls the handle (111) to return to the retracted position; and In step S3.2, if a stall signal is detected in the drive device (113), the drive device (113) controls the handle (111) to return to the unfolded position.

13. The method (500) according to claim 11, wherein, The drive device (113) rotates in the first rotation direction to retract the handle (111) and rotates in the second rotation direction to unfold the handle (111).

14. A door handle assembly for a vehicle door (101), the vehicle door (101) having a door surface (102), the door handle assembly comprising: Handle base (112); The handle (111) has a retracted position and an extended position, wherein when the handle (111) is in the retracted position, the handle (111) is flush with the door surface (102), and when the handle (111) is in the extended position, the handle (111) protrudes outward relative to the door surface (102). A handle shaft (118) is configured to rotate under the drive of a drive unit (113); An X-shaped hinge structure (129) is connected to the handle (111) and the handle seat (112) and is configured to rotate about its axis of rotation (130) to allow the handle (111) to move relative to the handle seat (112) to extend or retract; and A transmission component (126) connects the handle shaft (118) to the X-shaped hinge structure (129) so that the X-shaped hinge structure (129) is driven to rotate by the handle shaft (118) under the drive of the drive device (113), and the X-shaped hinge structure (129) rotates to drive the handle shaft (118) to rotate when the operator operates the handle (111).

15. The door handle assembly of claim 14, wherein, The X-shaped hinge structure (129) includes: A first push rod (139), the first push rod (139) including a first end (131) and a second end (132), the first end (131) being slidably connected to the handle seat (112), and the second end (132) being pivotally connected to the handle (111); and A second push rod (140) includes a third end (133) and a fourth end (134), the third end (133) being slidably connected to the handle (111) and the fourth end (134) being pivotally connected to the handle seat (112), the first push rod (139) and the second push rod (140) rotating about the pivot (130) at their intersection. One end (128) of the transmission member (126) is slidably connected to the second push rod (140), and the other end (127) of the transmission member (126) is fixedly connected to the handle shaft (118).

16. The door handle assembly of claim 15, wherein, The handle seat (112) includes a first connecting groove (152), and the first end (131) of the first push rod (139) is provided with a first connecting pin (135), which is configured to slide in the first connecting groove (152). The handle (111) includes a second connecting groove (141), and the third end (133) of the second push rod (140) is provided with a second connecting pin (137), the second connecting pin (137) being configured to slide within the second connecting groove (141); and The second push rod (140) includes a third connecting groove (148), and a third connecting pin (153) is provided on the transmission member (126), the third connecting pin (153) being configured to slide within the third connecting groove (148).

17. The door handle assembly of claim 14, wherein, The door handle assembly also includes: An unlocking structure (125) is configured to be rotated by the X-shaped hinge structure (129) to unlock the vehicle door (101).

18. The door handle assembly of claim 14, wherein, The door handle assembly also includes: A push structure (120) connects the handle (111) to the handle seat (112) so that an operator's push can move the handle (111) from the retracted position to an intermediate unfolded position between the retracted position and the unfolded position, or move the handle (111) from the intermediate unfolded position to the retracted position.

19. The door handle assembly of claim 14, wherein, The handle (111) includes a removable handle cover (114) that houses the lock cylinder (116) of the vehicle door (101), the handle cover (114) being configured to expose the lock cylinder (116) when removed.

20. The door handle assembly according to claim 14, wherein the handle shaft (118) is fixedly connected to the output end (119) of the drive device (113).

Images