Method for testing torque performance of steering gear pull rod assembly

Abstract

The invention discloses a steering gear pull rod assembly torque performance testing method. The method comprises the steps that S1, a steering gear pull rod assembly is installed on a testing device; s2, the steering gear pull rod assembly is driven to move in the set direction, and the actual steering working condition is simulated; s3, torque data of the pull rod assembly in the movement process are collected through the testing device; and S4, the testing device processes and analyzes the collected torque data according to a preset torque performance index, and evaluates whether the torque performance of the steering gear pull rod assembly is qualified or not. According to the testing device, full automation of the testing process is achieved, manual intervention is not needed from bidirectional driving, data collection to result judgment, the testing efficiency and operation consistency are remarkably improved, and the testing device is particularly suitable for rapid detection of a production line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of steering gear assembly torque testing technology, specifically a method for testing the torque performance of a steering gear tie rod assembly. Background Technology

[0002] As a key component of the automotive steering system, the torque performance of the steering tie rod assembly directly affects steering feel, self-centering characteristics, and driving safety. During manufacturing and quality inspection, its torque characteristics must be precisely tested during simulated steering oscillations to ensure the product meets design requirements.

[0003] Chinese utility model patent CN105352748B discloses a method for testing the torque performance of a steering gear tie rod assembly. After positioning the tie rod assembly on a testing fixture, the assembly is manually moved to make it swing back and forth, and the corresponding torque value on a scale is observed and recorded. The average value is taken after multiple repetitions as the test result. While this method achieves a certain level of testing functionality, it still has several shortcomings: First, the testing process relies on manual movement and visual readings, making the consistency of operation susceptible to human factors and resulting in low efficiency, making it difficult to meet the demands of modern production lines for rapid and intelligent testing. Second, this method mainly obtains the average torque value at a specific swing angle, making it difficult to continuously and with high resolution acquire the torque change curve throughout the entire swing process. Therefore, it cannot comprehensively reflect the smoothness, symmetry, and other dynamic characteristics of torque changes with angle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method and device for testing the torque performance of steering gear tie rod assemblies that is more automated, can achieve continuous synchronous data acquisition throughout the process, and can objectively and efficiently evaluate the dynamic torque performance, so as to improve testing accuracy, consistency and production efficiency.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: A method for testing the torque performance of a steering gear tie rod assembly, comprising the following steps: S1: Install the steering gear tie rod assembly onto the test device; S2: Drive the steering gear tie rod assembly to move in a set direction to simulate actual steering conditions; S3: Collect torque data of the tie rod assembly during its movement using the aforementioned testing device; S4: The testing device processes and analyzes the collected torque data according to the preset torque performance index to evaluate whether the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly is qualified.

[0006] As a further aspect of the present invention: the testing device includes a testing platform, a fixing part, a monitoring part, a testing part, a driving component, and a control unit, wherein the fixing part, the monitoring part, the testing part, the driving component, and the control unit are all mounted on the testing platform; The fixing part, monitoring part and testing part are distributed sequentially from one end of the testing platform to the other end; The monitoring and testing units are driven by a drive component; Both the drive assembly and the monitoring unit are electrically connected to the control unit.

[0007] As a further embodiment of the present invention: the fixing part includes a fixing seat with a groove on the top, a fixing member, a tightening member, a threaded rod, and a rotating handle; The mounting base and the test platform are detachable. A fixing element and a tightening element are respectively provided at opposite ends of the groove of the fixing seat, and the fixing element is fixedly connected to the fixing seat. A threaded rod is provided on the side of the tensioning member away from the fixing member. The tensioning member is rotatably connected to one end of the threaded rod, and the other end of the threaded rod passes through the fixing seat. The threaded rod and the fixing seat are threadedly rotatably engaged. A rotating handle is fixed at one end of the threaded rod located outside the fixed seat.

[0008] As a further embodiment of the present invention: the monitoring unit includes a limiting rod, a lifting rod, a rotating sleeve, a slider, a first sliding groove, a second sliding groove, a first ranging sensor, a second ranging sensor, and an electromagnetic switch. One end of the limiting rod is fixedly connected to the test platform, and a lifting rod is sleeved outside the limiting rod. The lifting rod and the limiting rod are in sliding cooperation. The lifting rod is fitted with a rotating sleeve, and a slider is fixed on the surface of the lifting rod. The inner wall of the rotating sleeve has a first groove and a second groove. Both the first groove and the second groove are spiral-shaped and are staggered. The lifting rod has two states, rising and retracting, in the rotating sleeve through the slider, the first groove and the second groove. The rotating sleeve rotates in conjunction with the test platform. The first ranging sensor and the second ranging sensor are respectively installed on both sides of the top of the lifting rod; The electromagnetic switch is located between the lifting rod and the test platform. The stationary contact of the electromagnetic switch is fixedly connected to the test platform, and the moving contact of the electromagnetic switch is fixedly connected to the lifting rod.

[0009] As a further aspect of the present invention: the testing unit includes an arc-shaped track, a rack, a groove, and a placement frame, the concave surface of the track faces the fixing part, and the track is fixedly connected to the testing platform; The rack is located inside the track, and the shape of the rack matches the shape of the track, allowing for sliding engagement between the rack and the track; a groove is formed on the upper part of the track, and the shape of the groove matches the shape of the track. The middle section of the upper part of the rack is fixed to a mounting bracket, which slides within the groove of the rack and engages with the track.

[0010] As a further aspect of the present invention: the drive assembly includes a motor, gears, and a conveyor belt, wherein the motor is fixedly connected to the test platform; The rotating end of the motor is fixed with a gear, which meshes with a rack. A conveyor belt is fitted between the rotating end of the motor and the rotating sleeve.

[0011] As a further aspect of the present invention: a plurality of teeth are uniformly and circumferentially arranged on the outer surface of the rotating sleeve, and the teeth are fixedly connected to the rotating sleeve; The conveyor belt is divided into a smooth section and a rough section. The inner side of the rough section has several recesses that are linearly and evenly opened, and the recesses are engaged with the teeth.

[0012] As a further aspect of the present invention: a spring is provided between the lifting rod and the test platform, and the two ends of the spring are fixedly connected to the lifting rod and the test platform, respectively.

[0013] As a further aspect of the present invention: the control unit is configured to execute control logic comprising the following steps: The drive assembly is started, and the test unit is driven to move the tie rod part of the steering gear tie rod assembly along the first direction; When the first disconnect signal is received from the electromagnetic switch, it is determined that the lifting rod has risen to the top, and the first distance data and torque data corresponding to the first direction are collected from the first ranging sensor. The first angular displacement of the tie rod is calculated based on the first distance data, and a first torque-angle relationship curve is generated by combining the torque data in the first direction. After the test in the first direction is completed, the drive component is reversed, driving the pull rod part to return to the initial position and then move in the second direction; When a second disconnect signal is received from the electromagnetic switch, it is determined that the lifting rod has risen to the top again, and the second distance data of the second ranging sensor and the torque data corresponding to the second direction are collected. The second angular displacement of the tie rod is calculated based on the second distance data, and a second torque-angle relationship curve is generated by combining the torque data in the second direction. The first torque-angle relationship curve and the second torque-angle relationship curve are compared and analyzed with preset torque performance indicators to comprehensively evaluate whether the bidirectional torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly is qualified.

[0014] As a further aspect of the present invention: the testing device also includes an operation panel and an alarm electrically connected to the control unit; The control panel and alarm are both mounted on the test platform and are electrically connected to the controller.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention effectively overcomes the shortcomings of existing technologies, such as reliance on manual operation, low testing efficiency, and discontinuous and inconsistent data. First, this invention achieves complete automation of the testing process. From bidirectional drive and data acquisition to result judgment, no manual intervention is required, significantly improving testing efficiency and operational consistency, making it particularly suitable for rapid testing on production lines. Second, by using a conveyor belt to synchronously drive the testing and monitoring units, and based on the hard trigger signal of an electromagnetic switch, it ensures precise timing synchronization of angular displacement and torque data acquisition, eliminating errors that may be introduced by human trigger delays at the source, greatly improving data accuracy and repeatability. Furthermore, this invention can continuously and at high resolution acquire data throughout the entire motion process and generate a complete torque-angle relationship curve. This allows for not only evaluating the absolute value of the torque but also comprehensively and objectively analyzing dynamic performance indicators such as the smoothness and bidirectional symmetry of torque changes, resulting in a more in-depth and reliable assessment of product quality. In addition, the fixing part of the testing device facilitates clamping and adjustment, and the arc-shaped track of the testing unit accurately simulates actual working conditions, making the testing conditions closer to reality and the evaluation results more instructive.

[0016] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be disclosed in detail in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is the overall structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the positions of the monitoring unit and the testing unit of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the monitoring unit of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the rotating sleeve of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the monitoring section of the present invention.

[0018] The figures are labeled as follows: 1. Test platform; 2. Fixing part; 201. Fixing base; 202. Fixing component; 203. Tightening component; 204. Threaded rod; 205. Rotating handle; 3. Monitoring part; 301. Limiting rod; 302. Lifting rod; 303. Rotating sleeve; 304. Slider; 305. First slide groove; 306. Second slide groove; 307. First distance sensor; 308. Second distance sensor; 309. Electromagnetic switch; 4. Test part; 401. Track; 402. Rack; 403. Slide groove; 404. Placement frame; 5. Drive assembly; 501. Motor; 502. Gear; 503. Conveyor belt; 6. Control unit; 7. Tooth; 8. Notch; 9. Spring; 10. Operation panel; 11. Alarm. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. 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.

[0020] In this embodiment of the invention, a method for testing the torque performance of a steering gear tie rod assembly includes the following steps: S1: Install the steering gear tie rod assembly onto the test device; S2: Drives the steering gear tie rod assembly to move in a set direction, simulating actual steering conditions; S3: Collect torque data of the tie rod assembly during its movement using a testing device; S4: The testing device processes and analyzes the collected torque data according to the preset torque performance indicators to evaluate whether the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly is qualified.

[0021] In this embodiment, as Figures 1-5 As shown, the testing device includes a testing platform 1, a fixing part 2, a monitoring part 3, a testing part 4, a drive assembly 5, and a control unit 6. The fixing part 2, the monitoring part 3, the testing part 4, the drive assembly 5, and the control unit 6 are all mounted on the testing platform 1. The fixing part 2, the monitoring part 3, and the testing part 4 are distributed sequentially from one end to the other on the testing platform 1; Monitoring unit 3 and testing unit 4 are driven by drive component 5; Both the drive assembly 5 and the monitoring unit 3 are electrically connected to the control unit 6.

[0022] During testing, the steering linkage assembly under test must first be mounted onto the testing device. This testing device uses a testing platform 1 as its mounting base. The testing platform 1 includes a fixing part 2 for securing the component under test, a monitoring part 3 for monitoring its motion, a testing part 4 for supporting and guiding the component under test to generate the required motion, a drive assembly 5 for providing power, and a control unit 6 for overall coordination and data processing. The fixing part 2, monitoring part 3, and testing part 4 are arranged sequentially from one end to the other along the length of the testing platform 1. Both the monitoring part 3 and the testing part 4 are connected to the drive assembly 5, which provides power to generate the required motion. Both the drive assembly 5 and the monitoring part 3 are connected to the control unit 6 via electrical wiring, receiving commands from the control unit 6 and feeding back signals and data.

[0023] In practice, one end of the steering gear tie rod assembly, typically the ball joint end, is mounted on the fixing part 2, while the other end, the tie rod portion, is placed on the testing part 4, ensuring it is in the predetermined starting position. After installation, the testing process is initiated via the control unit 6. The control unit 6 sends a command to the drive assembly 5, which then begins to operate, synchronously driving the testing part 4 and the monitoring part 3 to move in a coordinated manner. The movement of the testing part 4 directly acts on the tie rod portion of the steering gear tie rod assembly, driving it to displace along a pre-set direction, thereby accurately simulating the working conditions during actual steering.

[0024] During the movement of the tie rod assembly, the monitoring unit 3 operates in real time. The monitoring unit 3 can sense or measure key physical quantities related to the movement, and is used to collect torque data reflecting the movement of the tie rod assembly. This collected raw torque data is transmitted to the control unit 6 in real time.

[0025] The control unit 6 internally stores or presets standards for evaluating the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly, i.e., preset torque performance indicators. Upon receiving torque data uploaded by the monitoring unit 3, the control unit 6 invokes its built-in data processing and analysis program. This program processes the collected time-series torque data, performing correlation analysis between the torque data and simultaneously collected motion displacement angle data to generate a torque-angle characteristic curve. Subsequently, the results of the processing and analysis are compared with the preset torque performance indicators. Based on the comparison results, the control unit 6 can automatically make a judgment, evaluating whether the torque performance of the currently tested steering gear tie rod assembly meets the requirements, thus completing the qualification determination. The entire testing process is automatically executed by the testing device, improving testing efficiency and the consistency of results.

[0026] In this embodiment, the fixing part 2 includes a fixing seat 201 with a groove on the top, a fixing member 202, a tightening member 203, a threaded rod 204, and a rotating handle 205; The mounting base 201 and the test platform 1 are detachably connected; A fixing element 202 and a tightening element 203 are respectively provided at opposite ends of the groove in the fixing base 201, and the fixing element 202 is fixedly connected to the fixing base 201; A threaded rod 204 is provided on the side of the tensioning member 203 away from the fixing member 202. The tensioning member 203 is rotatably connected to one end of the threaded rod 204, and the other end of the threaded rod 204 passes through the fixing seat 201. The threaded rod 204 and the fixing seat 201 are threadedly rotated together. One end of the threaded rod 204 located outside the fixed base 201 is fixed with a handle 205.

[0027] To accommodate the installation requirements of different steering gear tie rod assemblies, the fixing part 2 in the testing device adopts an adjustable clamping method. The main body of the fixing part 2 is the fixing seat 201, which has a groove on its top for accommodating the end of the part to be tested (such as a ball joint). The fixing seat 201 is detachably connected to the testing platform 1 by means of bolts or locating pins, which facilitates maintenance or replacement.

[0028] Inside the groove of the fixing base 201, at opposite ends along its length, are respectively provided a fixing member 202 and a tightening member 203. The fixing member 202 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the fixing base 201 by welding or screw fastening, forming a reference surface for clamping. The tightening member 203 is arranged opposite to the fixing member 202 and can move within a small range along its length within the groove, thus cooperating with the fixing member 202 to form a variable clamping space.

[0029] To enable the adjustment of the tensioning element 203, a threaded rod 204 is connected to the side of the tensioning element 203 facing away from the fixing element 202. One end of the threaded rod 204 is rotatably connected to the tensioning element 203 via a bearing or a smooth shaft hole, allowing the threaded rod 204 to rotate on its own without forcibly rotating the tensioning element 203. The other end of the threaded rod 204 horizontally penetrates the side wall of the fixing seat 201 and forms a threaded rotational engagement with an internal threaded hole machined on the side wall. A handle 205 is fixedly installed at the end of the threaded rod 204 located outside the fixing seat 201, providing a point of force application for the operator.

[0030] In actual operation, the end of the steering gear tie rod assembly that needs to be fixed (such as the ball joint) is placed into the groove of the fixing seat 201, so that one side of it contacts the fixing part 202. Then, the operator manually rotates the handle 205, which drives the threaded rod 204 to rotate. Since the threaded rod 204 and the fixing seat 201 are connected by threads, the rotational motion is converted into the axial movement of the threaded rod 204 itself, which in turn pushes or pulls the tensioning part 203, which is stationary on it, closer to or further away from the fixing part 202 along the groove. By tightening the handle 205, the tensioning part 203 moves toward the fixing part 202, thus firmly clamping the part to be tested between the two; by rotating the handle 205 in the opposite direction, the tensioning part 203 moves back, releasing the part to be tested. This makes adjustment convenient and can reliably adapt to different products within a certain size range.

[0031] In this embodiment, the monitoring unit 3 includes a limiting rod 301, a lifting rod 302, a rotating sleeve 303, a slider 304, a first sliding groove 305, a second sliding groove 306, a first ranging sensor 307, a second ranging sensor 308, and an electromagnetic switch 309. One end of the limiting rod 301 is fixedly connected to the test platform 1, and the lifting rod 302 is sleeved on the outside of the limiting rod 301. The lifting rod 302 slides in cooperation with the limiting rod 301. A rotating sleeve 303 is fitted around the lifting rod 302. A slider 304 is fixed on the surface of the lifting rod 302. A first groove 305 and a second groove 306 are opened on the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 303. Both the first groove 305 and the second groove 306 are spiral-shaped and are staggered. The lifting rod 302 has two states of rising and retracting in the rotating sleeve 303 through the slider 304, the first groove 305 and the second groove 306. The rotating sleeve 303 rotates and engages with the test platform 1. The first ranging sensor 307 and the second ranging sensor 308 are respectively installed on both sides of the top of the lifting rod 302; The electromagnetic switch 309 is located between the lifting rod 302 and the test platform 1. The stationary contact of the electromagnetic switch 309 is fixedly connected to the test platform 1, and the moving contact of the electromagnetic switch 309 is fixedly connected to the lifting rod 302.

[0032] To achieve precise and synchronous acquisition of motion and torque data of the steering gear tie rod assembly, a dedicated monitoring unit 3 is installed in the testing device. This monitoring unit 3 includes a limiting rod 301 serving as a guide base, with its lower end vertically fixed to the testing platform 1. A lifting rod 302 is sleeved outside the limiting rod 301. The lifting rod 302 has a through hole or sliding sleeve machined inside, matching the cross-section of the limiting rod 301, allowing the lifting rod 302 to slide stably up and down along the axial direction of the limiting rod 301, forming a sliding fit between the two.

[0033] A rotating sleeve 303 is fitted over the outside of the lifting rod 302. A slider 304 is fixedly mounted on the outer surface of the lifting rod 302. Correspondingly, two special grooves 403, namely the first groove 305 and the second groove 306, are machined on the inner wall of the rotating sleeve 303. These two grooves 403 are spirally arranged around the inner wall and are staggered but not connected to each other. The slider 304 on the lifting rod 302 can be selectively embedded in either the first groove 305 or the second groove 306. When the rotating sleeve 303 rotates under drive, the rotational motion of the rotating sleeve 303 can be converted into the linear lifting motion of the lifting rod 302 along the limiting rod 301 through the cooperation of the spiral groove 403 and the slider 304. Specifically, by designing two helical grooves 403 with alternating directions or phases, the rotating sleeve 303 can guide the lifting rod 302 upward to a preset highest position regardless of the direction of rotation. When the drive is reversed or revoked, the lifting rod 302 can retract along the grooves 403 under its own weight or other reset mechanisms. Therefore, the lifting rod 302 has two stable states within the rotating sleeve 303: rising to the top and retracting to the bottom. The lower part of the rotating sleeve 303 is rotated with the test platform 1 via bearings or bushings, ensuring its flexible rotation.

[0034] At the top of the lifting rod 302, a first ranging sensor 307 and a second ranging sensor 308 are respectively installed on both sides. These two sensors are used for non-contact measurement of the distance between the lifting rod and the target in front (i.e., the moving rod portion). An electromagnetic switch 309 is installed between the lifting rod 302 and the test platform 1. The stationary contact of the electromagnetic switch 309 is fixedly mounted on the test platform 1 by a bracket, while its moving contact is fixedly connected to the lower end or side of the lifting rod 302. When the lifting rod 302 is in its retracted bottom state, the moving contact is in contact with the stationary contact, and the electromagnetic switch 309 is in a closed conducting state. When the lifting rod 302 is driven to rise to its top state, it pulls the moving contact apart from the stationary contact, thereby causing the electromagnetic switch 309 to turn off, generating a clear level change signal. This signal is transmitted to the control unit 6 to accurately determine the position state of the lifting rod 302 and can also serve as a synchronization signal to trigger data acquisition.

[0035] In this embodiment, the testing unit 4 includes an arc-shaped track 401, a rack 402, a slide 403, and a placement frame 404. The concave surface of the track 401 faces the fixing unit 2, and the track 401 is fixedly connected to the testing platform 1. The rack 402 is inside the track 401, and the shape of the rack 402 matches that of the track 401. The rack 402 and the track 401 slide in a slidable fit. A groove 403 is provided on the upper part of the track 401, and the shape of the groove 403 matches that of the track 401. The middle section of the upper part of the rack 402 is fixed with a mounting bracket 404, which slides with the track 401 in the groove 403 via the rack 402.

[0036] The test section 4 includes a track 401 as the core guide structure. The track 401 is a profile with a specific curvature, with its concave surface facing the fixing part 2 on which the test piece is mounted, to simulate the real arc of the tie rod swinging during steering. The track 401 is securely fixed to the test platform 1 via its base.

[0037] An arc-shaped rack 402 that perfectly matches the curvature of the track 401 is provided on the inner side of the track 401 and forms a sliding fit with the track 401, thereby ensuring that the rack 402 can only move along the arc-shaped path of the track 401.

[0038] A continuous, elongated groove 403 is formed on the upper part of the track 401 along its arc-shaped extension direction. A mounting bracket 404 is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the rack 402 in its middle section. The mounting bracket 404 is used to directly support and position the tie rod part of the steering gear tie rod assembly. Since the mounting bracket 404 is rigidly connected to the rack 402, and the rack 402 is constrained within the groove 403 of the track 401, when the rack 402 moves under external drive, the mounting bracket 404, carrying the tie rod part, makes a smooth reciprocating motion along the arc-shaped trajectory set by the track 401.

[0039] In this embodiment, the drive component 5 includes a motor 501, a gear 502 and a conveyor belt 503, and the motor 501 is fixedly connected to the test platform 1; The rotating end of the motor 501 is fixed with gear 502, and gear 502 meshes with rack 402; A conveyor belt 503 is fitted between the rotating end of the motor 501 and the rotating sleeve 303.

[0040] The drive assembly 5 includes a motor 501 that serves as a power source, and the motor 501 is securely fixed to the test platform 1 by its base.

[0041] A gear 502 is fixedly mounted on the output shaft of the motor 501. This gear 502 directly meshes with the toothed portion of the rack 402 in the test section 4, forming a gear 502-rack 402 transmission pair. When the control unit 6 starts the motor 501, the rotational motion of the motor 501 is converted into a meshing transmission with the rack 402 through the gear 502 on the output shaft, thereby driving the rack 402 to move precisely in a straight line (arc trajectory) along the slide groove 403 of the track 401 below it.

[0042] In order to achieve mechanical synchronization between the test motion and the monitoring action, a conveyor belt 503 is installed between the output shaft of the motor 501 and the rotating sleeve 303 of the monitoring unit 3.

[0043] In this embodiment, a plurality of teeth 7 are evenly and circumferentially arranged on the outer surface of the rotating sleeve 303, and the teeth 7 are fixedly connected to the rotating sleeve 303. The conveyor belt 503 is divided into a smooth section and a rough section. The inner side of the rough section has several recesses 8 that are linearly and evenly opened, and the recesses 8 mesh with the teeth 7.

[0044] The outer cylindrical surface of the rotating sleeve 303 is uniformly machined or fixed with a number of teeth 7 along its circumference. Meanwhile, the conveyor belt 503, fitted between the two, is designed with sections of different characteristics. Most of these sections are conventional smooth sections, while the sections that need to engage with the rotating sleeve 303 are designed as rough sections. On the inner surface of this rough section, a series of notches 8 are linearly and uniformly formed along its length. When the conveyor belt 503 is properly tensioned and installed, these notches 8 on the inner side of the rough section precisely engage with the teeth 7 on the outer surface of the rotating sleeve 303. In this way, the rotational motion of the motor 501's output shaft is reliably transmitted to the rotating sleeve 303 through this specially designed conveyor belt 503, driving it to produce synchronized rotational motion.

[0045] In this embodiment, a spring 9 is provided between the lifting rod 302 and the test platform 1, and the two ends of the spring 9 are fixedly connected to the lifting rod 302 and the test platform 1 respectively.

[0046] Spring 9 is sleeved on the outside of limit rod 301, located between the bottom of lifting rod 302 and the upper surface of test platform 1. The upper end of spring 9 is fixedly connected to the side of lifting rod 302 by hook, slot or welding, and its lower end is fixedly connected to the corresponding fixed point on test platform 1 in a similar manner.

[0047] When the drive assembly 5 drives the rotating sleeve 303 to rotate via the conveyor belt 503, thereby driving the lifting rod 302 to move upward to the top against the elastic force of the spring 9, the spring 9 is stretched and stores elastic potential energy. Once the test movement in the current direction is completed, when the driving force of the drive assembly 5 on the rotating sleeve 303 weakens or changes direction, the stretched spring 9 releases its stored potential energy. Through the tension generated by the contraction, it assists and ensures that the lifting rod 302 can smoothly retract downward along the limit rod 301 until it returns to the initial bottom position. The setting of this spring 9 provides a stable reset force for the lifting rod 302, ensuring that the moving contact and stationary contact of the electromagnetic switch 309 can reliably re-contact after reset. It also makes the working cycle of the entire monitoring unit 3 more stable and reliable, providing a guarantee for the continuous and automatic operation of the testing device.

[0048] In this embodiment, the control unit 6 is configured to execute control logic including the following steps: The control drive assembly 5 is started, and the drive test unit 4 drives the tie rod part of the steering gear tie rod assembly to move in the first direction; When the first disconnect signal is received from the electromagnetic switch 309, it is determined that the lifting rod 302 has risen to the top and the first distance data and torque data in the corresponding first direction are collected from the first distance sensor 307. The first angular displacement of the tie rod is calculated based on the first distance data, and the first torque-angle relationship curve is generated by combining the torque data in the first direction. After the test in the first direction is completed, the control drive component 5 reverses, the drive rod returns to its initial position and then moves in the second direction; When the second disconnect signal is received from the electromagnetic switch 309, it is determined that the lifting rod 302 has risen to the top again, and the second distance data and the torque data in the corresponding second direction of the second distance sensor 308 are collected. The second angular displacement of the tie rod is calculated based on the second distance data, and the second torque-angle relationship curve is generated by combining the torque data in the second direction. The first torque-angle relationship curve and the second torque-angle relationship curve are compared and analyzed with the preset torque performance indicators to comprehensively evaluate whether the bidirectional torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly is qualified.

[0049] In this embodiment, the testing device also includes an operation panel 10 and an alarm 11 electrically connected to the control unit 6; Both the operation panel 10 and the alarm 11 are installed on the test platform 1, and both the operation panel 10 and the alarm 11 are electrically connected to the controller.

[0050] After the test begins, the control unit 6 first sends a command to the drive assembly 5 to start the motor 501, causing it to rotate in a first direction (e.g., simulating a left turn). The rotation of the motor 501 drives the rack 402 meshing with it in the test unit 4 along the track 401 via the gear 502 fixed to its output shaft, thereby causing the pull rod on the placement frame 404 to swing in an arc in the first direction. At the same time, through the linkage of the conveyor belt 503, the rotating sleeve 303 of the monitoring unit 3 rotates synchronously, driving the lifting rod 302 to rise.

[0051] Control unit 6 continuously monitors the status signal from electromagnetic switch 309. When it receives the first disconnect signal from electromagnetic switch 309, control unit 6 determines that the lifting rod 302 has risen to the preset trigger top position, indicating that the rod part has entered the effective test stroke. At this time, control unit 6 simultaneously starts two data acquisitions: first, it starts continuously recording the first distance data between the first distance sensor 307 and the rod part; second, it starts continuously reading and recording the real-time operating current data fed back by the motor 501 driver, which corresponds to the output of motor 501 when driving the rod part to move in the first direction.

[0052] The internal processing module of control unit 6 first calculates the first angular displacement of the pull rod relative to its initial position based on the acquired first distance data. Simultaneously, control unit 6 converts the real-time current value of motor 501, along with pre-stored system transmission parameters and a dynamic model, into a torque value acting on the pull rod. This conversion model considers the transmission chain relationship from the output shaft of motor 501 to the point of action of the pull rod, including the transmission ratio of gear 502 and rack 402, the equivalent lever arm function of the system, and the basic friction loss parameters of the system obtained from experimental calibration. Through real-time calculation, the electrical parameters of motor 501 are mapped to the torque borne by the pull rod. Subsequently, control unit 6 maps the synchronously calculated first angular displacement value to the converted first directional torque value, generating a first torque-angle relationship curve in memory.

[0053] After completing the first direction test, the control unit 6 controls the motor 501 to reverse. The motor 501 first drives the pull rod to return to its initial position, and then continues to move in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction. When the control unit 6 receives the disconnect signal from the electromagnetic switch 309 for the second time, it determines that the lifting rod 302 has reached the trigger position again, and then begins to synchronously collect the second distance data from the second ranging sensor 308, as well as the real-time operating current data of the motor 501 during its movement in the second direction.

[0054] Similarly, the control unit 6 calculates the second angular displacement based on the second distance data, and uses the same principle and conversion model to convert the motor 501 current data in the second direction into torque data acting on the tie rod. Based on these two sets of data, the control unit 6 generates a second torque-angle relationship curve.

[0055] After obtaining the bidirectional torque-angle relationship curves, the control unit 6 calls upon preset torque performance indicators for comparative analysis. These indicators include requirements for the absolute magnitude of the torque and the smoothness of the curve, and specifically include a threshold for judging the symmetry of the bidirectional curves to partially offset the influence of inherent differences in forward and reverse friction in the system transmission. The control unit 6 synthesizes the comparative analysis results and ultimately assesses whether the bidirectional torque performance of the steering linkage assembly is qualified.

[0056] To facilitate operation and interaction, the test platform 1 is also equipped with an operation panel 10 and an alarm 11 that are electrically connected to the control unit 6. The operation panel 10 is used to start the test, set parameters, and display test results and curves; the alarm 11, based on the evaluation conclusion of the control unit 6, emits an audible and visual alarm signal when the product is unqualified or an abnormality occurs during the test process.

[0057] It should be noted that: In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the torque data acting on the steering linkage assembly is obtained by collecting the real-time operating current of the drive motor 501 and converting it based on a preset system transmission model. This model is established through prior calibration tests and considers the efficiency, friction, and geometric relationships of the transmission system. To improve the conversion accuracy and reliability of the results, the torque-angle relationship curve generated by the control unit 6 is mainly used for comparative evaluation. That is, under the same testing equipment and the same calibration parameters, the curve of the assembly under test is compared with the benchmark curve of a standard qualified assembly or a preset threshold range to determine the consistency of its performance. This method, while ensuring the consistency of testing conditions, can efficiently and reliably identify defective products whose torque performance does not meet the requirements, and is suitable for rapid testing scenarios on the production line.

[0058] This invention provides a method for testing the torque performance of a steering gear tie rod assembly. It is more automated, can achieve continuous synchronous data acquisition throughout the process, and can objectively and efficiently evaluate the dynamic torque performance, thereby improving testing accuracy, consistency and production efficiency.

[0059] It is worth mentioning that after the testing device is assembled and before it is put into formal testing, a series of standardized calibration tests are required to establish and verify the conversion relationship from motor current to load torque, so as to ensure the accurate implementation of the technical solution. The calibration test requires connecting a metrologically certified standard two-dimensional force sensor to the testing device. This sensor is installed in series between the mounting frame and the rack to directly measure the tangential force driving the pull rod. Simultaneously, the data acquisition channel of the control unit must be synchronously connected to the output terminal of the standard sensor and the current feedback terminal of the motor driver, ensuring that the entire mechanical system is in good condition consistent with future production testing.

[0060] First, an unloaded run was performed to obtain the system's baseline characteristics. Without any external load, the control unit drove the test device to complete several full bidirectional movements at the standard test speed. During this process, the system simultaneously recorded the current values ​​of the motor at various angular positions throughout its stroke, as well as the resistance values ​​measured by a standard force sensor. By averaging the data from multiple runs, "unloaded current-angle reference curves" and "unloaded resistance-angle reference curves" for both forward and reverse movements were obtained. These curves quantify the inherent friction and inertial losses of the test device's own transmission system.

[0061] Load calibration is then performed to establish a mapping relationship. A standard tie rod assembly with known stable torque characteristics is installed on the mounting frame as a load, driving the system to move in both directions again. The system synchronously collects the force value measured by the standard force sensor, the real-time current value of the motor, and the real-time angle value obtained by the distance sensor, with the three sets of data strictly aligned in time. To enhance the adaptability of the model, this process can be repeated with several standard loads of different torque values ​​to obtain multiple sets of data covering the expected operating range. Subsequently, compensation calculations are performed on all load calibration data using data processing software, i.e., subtracting the no-load resistance reference value at the same angle from the measured force value to obtain the net load force, and subtracting the no-load current reference value at the same angle from the measured current value to obtain the net load current. Analysis shows that there is a highly stable proportional relationship between the net load current and the torque value calculated from the net load force and the known geometric relationship of the device. Using all the data, the software can automatically fit and determine the optimal proportional coefficient for the forward and reverse motion of the device. This coefficient, together with the no-load reference curve, constitutes a "preset system transmission model" and is permanently stored in the control unit.

[0062] To rigorously verify the effectiveness of the established model, an independent accuracy verification test was conducted. A new standard load with a different torque value, not involved in the modeling, was used for testing. In this test, the control unit calculated torque values ​​in real-time based solely on real-time acquired current and angle data, calling upon stored model parameters. The torque curve calculated by this model was then compared throughout the entire range with a reference torque curve obtained by synchronously measuring and converting the torque using a standard force sensor in this test. Repeat verification results showed that the two curves matched well across the entire range of motion, with the maximum deviation between the model's calculated values ​​and the sensor's measured reference values ​​consistently remaining within 3% of the standard sensor's full-scale range, and the average deviation less than 1%. This accuracy fully meets the industrial requirements for rapid and reliable qualification assessment of the steering linkage assembly.

[0063] After completing the above calibration and verification, the standard force sensor can be removed from the testing device. In subsequent routine testing of all products under test, the control unit only needs to collect the motor current and the rod angle. By calling the verified model and performing the same compensation and conversion processing, an accurate and reliable torque-angle relationship curve can be obtained, and performance evaluation can be completed accordingly. The calibration method detailed above, the standard measuring equipment relied upon, the specific data processing flow, and the clearly defined accuracy results together constitute sufficient technical evidence, demonstrating that those skilled in the art can fully implement the technical solution described in this invention based on the teachings of the specification, and achieve its expected testing functions and effects.

[0064] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that the invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments should be considered in all respects as exemplary and non-limiting, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. Thus, all variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are intended to be included within the present invention. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0065] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A method for testing the torque performance of a steering gear tie rod assembly, characterized in that, Including the following steps: S1: Install the steering gear tie rod assembly onto the test device; S2: Drive the steering gear tie rod assembly to move in a set direction to simulate actual steering conditions; S3: Collect torque data of the tie rod assembly during its movement using the aforementioned testing device; S4: The testing device processes and analyzes the collected torque data according to the preset torque performance index to evaluate whether the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly is qualified.

2. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The testing device includes a testing platform (1), a fixing part (2), a monitoring part (3), a testing part (4), a driving component (5), and a control unit (6), wherein the fixing part (2), the monitoring part (3), the testing part (4), the driving component (5), and the control unit (6) are all mounted on the testing platform (1); The fixing part (2), the monitoring part (3) and the testing part (4) are distributed sequentially from one end to the other on the testing platform (1); The monitoring unit (3) and the testing unit (4) are driven by the driving component (5); Both the drive assembly (5) and the monitoring unit (3) are electrically connected to the control unit (6).

3. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fixing part (2) includes a fixing seat (201) with a groove on the top, a fixing member (202), a fastening member (203), a threaded rod (204), and a rotating handle (205). The mounting base (201) and the test platform (1) are detachably mounted; A fixing element (202) and a tightening element (203) are respectively provided at opposite ends of the groove of the fixing base (201), and the fixing element (202) is fixedly connected to the fixing base (201); The fastener (203) is provided with a threaded rod (204) on the side away from the fixing member (202). The fastener (203) is rotatably connected to one end of the threaded rod (204), and the other end of the threaded rod (204) passes through the fixing seat (201). The threaded rod (204) and the fixing seat (201) are threadedly rotated together. A rotating handle (205) is fixed at one end of the threaded rod (204) located outside the fixed base (201).

4. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The monitoring unit (3) includes a limiting rod (301), a lifting rod (302), a rotating sleeve (303), a slider (304), a first slide groove (305), a second slide groove (306), a first ranging sensor (307), a second ranging sensor (308), and an electromagnetic switch (309). One end of the limiting rod (301) is fixedly connected to the test platform (1). The lifting rod (302) is sleeved on the outside of the limiting rod (301). The lifting rod (302) slides in cooperation with the limiting rod (301). The lifting rod (302) is fitted with a rotating sleeve (303). A slider (304) is fixed on the surface of the lifting rod (302). A first groove (305) and a second groove (306) are opened on the inner wall of the rotating sleeve (303). The first groove (305) and the second groove (306) are both spiral in shape and are staggered. The lifting rod (302) has two states of rising and retracting in the rotating sleeve (303) through the slider (304), the first groove (305) and the second groove (306). The rotating sleeve (303) rotates and engages with the test platform (1). The first ranging sensor (307) and the second ranging sensor (308) are respectively installed on both sides of the top of the lifting rod (302); The electromagnetic switch (309) is located between the lifting rod (302) and the test platform (1). The stationary contact of the electromagnetic switch (309) is fixedly connected to the test platform (1), and the moving contact of the electromagnetic switch (309) is fixedly connected to the lifting rod (302).

5. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The test section (4) includes an arc-shaped track (401), a rack (402), a slide (403), and a placement rack (404). The concave surface of the track (401) faces the fixing section (2), and the track (401) is fixedly connected to the test platform (1). The rack (402) is inside the track (401), and the shape of the rack (402) matches that of the track (401). The rack (402) and the track (401) are in sliding engagement. A groove (403) is provided on the upper part of the track (401), and the shape of the groove (403) matches that of the track (401). The middle section of the upper part of the rack (402) is fixed to the placement frame (404), and the placement frame (404) slides in the groove (403) with the track (401) through the rack (402).

6. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The drive assembly (5) includes a motor (501), a gear (502) and a conveyor belt (503), and the motor (501) is fixedly connected to the test platform (1); The rotating end of the motor (501) is fixed with a gear (502), and the gear (502) meshes with the rack (402); A conveyor belt (503) is fitted between the rotating end of the motor (501) and the rotating sleeve (303).

7. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The outer surface of the rotating sleeve (303) is provided with a plurality of teeth (7) evenly arranged in the circumferential direction, and the teeth (7) are fixedly connected to the rotating sleeve (303); The conveyor belt (503) is divided into a smooth section and a rough section. The inner side of the rough section has a number of recesses (8) that are linearly and uniformly opened. The recesses (8) mesh with the teeth (7).

8. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, A spring (9) is provided between the lifting rod (302) and the test platform (1), and the two ends of the spring (9) are fixedly connected to the lifting rod (302) and the test platform (1) respectively.

9. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The control unit (6) is configured to execute control logic comprising the following steps: The drive assembly (5) is started, and the test unit (4) is driven to move the tie rod part of the steering gear tie rod assembly along the first direction; When the first disconnect signal is received from the electromagnetic switch (309), it is determined that the lifting rod (302) has risen to the top and the first distance data and torque data corresponding to the first direction are collected from the first distance sensor (307). The first angular displacement of the tie rod is calculated based on the first distance data, and a first torque-angle relationship curve is generated by combining the torque data in the first direction. After the test in the first direction is completed, the drive component (5) is controlled to reverse, driving the pull rod part to return to the initial position and then move in the second direction; When a second disconnect signal is received from the electromagnetic switch (309), it is determined that the lifting rod (302) has risen to the top again, and the second distance data and torque data corresponding to the second direction of the second distance sensor (308) are collected. The second angular displacement of the tie rod is calculated based on the second distance data, and a second torque-angle relationship curve is generated by combining the torque data in the second direction. The first torque-angle relationship curve and the second torque-angle relationship curve are compared and analyzed with preset torque performance indicators to comprehensively evaluate whether the bidirectional torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly is qualified.

10. The method for testing the torque performance of the steering gear tie rod assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The testing device also includes an operation panel (10) and an alarm (11) that are electrically connected to the control unit (6). The operation panel (10) and the alarm (11) are both installed on the test platform (1), and the operation panel (10) and the alarm (11) are both electrically connected to the controller.

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