A steering column assembly and vehicle

Abstract

This application discloses a steering column assembly and a vehicle. The steering column assembly includes a column body and an input shaft, and further includes: an energy-absorbing strip located on the surface of the input shaft, the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip being parallel to the axial direction of the input shaft, and a first mating area provided on the surface of the energy-absorbing strip; an adjusting member provided with a second mating area for interference fit with the first mating area; and a control component for controlling the adjusting member to move along a preset direction. When the adjusting member moves to different positions, the interference between the first mating area and the second mating area is different during the energy absorption process. Thus, the energy absorption capacity between the adjusting member and the energy-absorbing strip can be adjusted by the control component to conform to the current vehicle condition, thereby optimizing the protection performance of the steering column assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle design and manufacturing technology, and in particular to a steering column assembly and a vehicle equipped with the steering column assembly. Background Technology

[0002] The steering column assembly is one of the core components of a car's steering system. It connects the steering wheel and the steering gear (or steering pinion) and is responsible for reliably and safely transmitting the force and motion of the driver turning the steering wheel to the front wheel steering mechanism, thereby achieving vehicle directional control.

[0003] In the steering column assembly: the column body is generally connected to the vehicle body, providing support and protection for the input shaft; the input shaft passes through the column body, with one end connected to the steering wheel's rotation axis, directly receiving input torque from the steering wheel. In the event of a collision, the input shaft can absorb energy by axially sliding or folding relative to the column body through a specific structure (such as a break pin or folding bracket).

[0004] With the rapid development of the automotive industry, the requirements for vehicle safety performance are also gradually increasing, and passive driver protection is evolving into active protection. Among these, how to optimize the protective performance of the steering column assembly is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a steering column assembly and a vehicle equipped with the steering column assembly, which can adjust the energy absorption capacity of the energy-absorbing strip to suit the current vehicle condition, thereby optimizing the protection performance of the steering column assembly.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: A steering column assembly includes a column body and an input shaft, and further includes: An energy-absorbing strip is located on the surface of the input shaft. The length direction of the energy-absorbing strip is parallel to the axial direction of the input shaft, and a first mating area is provided on the surface of the energy-absorbing strip. The adjusting component is provided with a second mating area for interference fit with the first mating area; A control component is used to control the adjustment member to move along a preset direction. When the adjustment member moves to different positions, the interference between the first mating area and the second mating area is different during the energy absorption process.

[0007] Optionally, in the energy-absorbing strip of the steering column assembly described above, the first mating area is provided on the outer walls of the two opposite sides; The adjusting component is provided with an opening groove, and the two opposite sidewalls inside the opening groove are respectively provided with the second mating area; When the control component controls the adjustment member to move to different positions, the depth position of the energy-absorbing strip in the opening groove is different.

[0008] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, in the direction in which the adjusting member gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip along the preset direction, the second mating area includes a plurality of optional areas arranged sequentially and capable of gradually increasing the interference fit.

[0009] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, in the direction in which the adjusting member gradually approaches the energy-absorbing strip along the preset direction, the first mating area includes a plurality of optional areas arranged sequentially and capable of gradually increasing the interference fit.

[0010] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, the first mating areas located on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip are parallel to each other and the distance between them is a first distance L1; at any depth position of the opening groove, the distance between the two second mating areas located opposite each other in the opening groove is a second distance L2; in the direction in which the adjusting member gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip along the preset direction, the second distance L2 gradually decreases in a stepwise manner or gradually decreases continuously, and the first distance L1 is greater than the maximum value of the second distance L2.

[0011] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, the two second mating areas located opposite each other in the opening groove are parallel to each other and the distance between them is a second distance L2; in any cross section perpendicular to the thickness direction of the energy-absorbing strip, the distance between the first mating areas located on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip is a first distance L1; in the direction in which the adjusting member gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip along the preset direction, the first distance L1 gradually decreases in a stepwise manner or gradually decreases continuously, and the minimum value of the first distance L1 is greater than the second distance L2.

[0012] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, the outer walls of the opposite sides of the energy-absorbing strip include a connecting area, and the connecting area is further away from the top surface of the energy-absorbing strip relative to the first mating area; The distance between the first mating areas on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip is the first distance L1, and the distance between the connecting areas on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip is the third distance L3, where L3 ≤ L1.

[0013] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, the energy-absorbing strip includes a starting section, an energy-absorbing main body section, and an ending section connected sequentially along the length direction, and the width of the starting section, the energy-absorbing main body section, and the ending section gradually increases; Before the collapse occurs, the adjusting component is in clearance fit with the starting section; During the collapse process, the adjusting component is interference-fitted with the energy-absorbing main body section.

[0014] Optionally, in the above-mentioned steering column assembly, the adjusting member is provided with a rack portion; The control component includes a gear and a first power device. The gear meshes with the rack portion, and the first power device is used to drive the gear to rotate so as to control the adjusting member to move along the preset direction through the rack portion.

[0015] Optionally, the steering column assembly described above also includes: A slider is connected to the column body, and the adjusting member is at least partially located in the internal cavity of the slider and can move relative to the slider along the preset direction; An adjustment assembly, the actuator of which is connected to at least one of the column body and the slider, is used to control the axial movement of the steering column assembly along the input shaft.

[0016] Optionally, in the above-described steering column assembly, the control component includes: The first power unit is connected to the adjusting component via a transmission connection; An energy-absorbing controller, connected to the first power unit via a signal, is able to control the adjustment component to move to different positions according to different vehicle modes and / or different vehicle speeds via the first power unit.

[0017] A vehicle equipped with the steering column assembly described above.

[0018] As can be seen from the above technical solution, in the steering column assembly and vehicle provided by this application, because the interference between the first mating area and the second mating area is different during the energy absorption process when the adjusting component moves to different positions, the design value of the energy absorption capacity (i.e., the collapsible force) of the steering column assembly is adjustable in a single vehicle model. This enables the control and adjustment of the energy absorption capacity of the steering column assembly, making it more suitable for the current vehicle conditions. For example, it can meet the optimal energy absorption capacity required by the vehicle under low-speed, medium-speed, and high-speed operating conditions, thereby optimizing the protection performance of the steering column assembly and improving vehicle safety performance. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1An exploded view of the steering column assembly provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the adjusting component and the energy-absorbing strip in the steering column assembly provided in this application embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Axonometric views of the steering column assembly provided in the embodiments of this application at different angles.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the steering column assembly provided in the embodiment of this application at the location of the adjusting component.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an input shaft with energy-absorbing strips provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Sectional view at section AA.

[0026] Figure 8 A front view of the adjustment component provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 9 This is an isometric view of the adjusting member provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 These are schematic diagrams showing several different mating structures of the energy-absorbing strip and the adjusting member provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the adjustment member's movement, interference fit, suction capacity, and vehicle speed, as provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the control logic for a steering column assembly provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] in: 1-Input shaft, 2-Angle adjustment assembly, 3-Column body, 4-Upper mounting bracket, 5-Lower mounting bracket 6-Axial adjustment assembly, 7-Energy absorption adjustment assembly 11-Spindle, 12-Outer tube, 61-Actuator, 62-Second power unit 70-Energy-absorbing strip, 71-Guide shaft, 72-Upper support, 73-Slider, 74-Adjusting component, 75-Lower support 76-Gear, 77-Housing, 78-Energy Absorption Controller, 79-First Power Unit 701 - First Coordination Zone, 740 - First Coordination Zone 702 - Connection zone, 703 - Starting section, 704 - Main energy-absorbing section, 705 - Termination section 741 - First strip-shaped claw, 742 - Second strip-shaped claw, 743 - Rack section, 7401 - First optional region, 7402 - Second optional region, 7403 - Third optional region 7011 - Fourth optional area, 7012 - Fifth optional area, 7013 - Sixth optional area. Detailed Implementation

[0032] This application discloses a steering column assembly and a vehicle equipped with the steering column assembly, which can adjust the energy absorption capacity of the energy-absorbing strip to suit the current vehicle condition, thereby optimizing the protection performance of the steering column assembly.

[0033] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0034] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2The steering column assembly provided in this application includes not only the column body 3, which provides support and protection, and the input shaft 1, which connects to the steering wheel, but also an energy-absorbing adjustment component 7 capable of adjusting the energy absorption capacity (or the crumple capacity of the steering column assembly when a vehicle collision occurs). This energy-absorbing adjustment component 7 includes an energy-absorbing strip 70, an adjusting member 74, and a control component. The energy-absorbing strip 70 is generally mounted on and fixedly connected to the surface of the input shaft 1. The length direction of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is parallel to the axial direction of the input shaft 1, and a first mating area 701 is provided on the surface of the energy-absorbing strip 70. The adjusting member 74 is provided with a second mating area 740. The main body of the adjusting member 74 is generally mounted on the outside of the column body 3, and the second mating area 740 passes through the opening area of ​​the column body 3 and is interference-fitted with the first mating area 701 of the energy-absorbing strip 70. The control component is used to control the adjusting member 74 to move along a preset direction (e.g., radially away from the input shaft 1). When the adjusting member 74 moves to different positions (either in the direction of the input shaft 1 or in the radial direction of the input shaft 1 towards the input shaft 1), the interference between the first mating area 701 and the second mating area 740 during the energy absorption process is different. As a result, the energy absorption capacity (i.e., the collapsible force) of the steering column assembly can be adjusted according to the design value of a single vehicle model. This enables the control and adjustment of the energy absorption capacity of the steering column assembly, making it more suitable for the current vehicle conditions. For example, it can meet the optimal energy absorption capacity required by the vehicle under low-speed, medium-speed, and high-speed operating conditions, thereby optimizing the protection performance of the steering column assembly and improving vehicle safety performance.

[0035] In practical implementation, the input shaft 1 generally includes a spindle 11 and an outer tube 12. The outer tube 12 passes through the column body 3, and the spindle 11 passes through the outer tube 12. One end of the spindle 11 (which is also the first connecting end of the input shaft 1) is used to connect to the steering wheel, and the other end of the spindle 11 (which is also the second connecting end of the input shaft 1) is used to connect to the steering device (such as a steering gear or steering pinion). Thus, the force and movement of the driver turning the steering wheel can be reliably and safely transmitted to the front wheel steering mechanism through the input shaft 1, thereby realizing vehicle steering control. It should be noted that the energy-absorbing strip 70 is generally set on the outer surface of the outer tube 12, and the adjusting member 74 and the control component are set on the column body 3. When a vehicle collision occurs, the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 move relative to each other along the length of the energy-absorbing strip 70. During this process, the second mating area 740 of the adjusting member 74 and the first mating area 701 of the energy-absorbing strip 70 maintain a near-interference fit. Therefore, the amount of interference between the second mating area 740 of the adjusting member 74 and the first mating area 701 of the energy-absorbing strip 70 directly affects the collapsibility of the steering column assembly. Furthermore, under other normal operating conditions where no collision occurs, the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 can have either a clearance fit or an interference fit, and the amount of interference between the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 can be pre-adjusted according to actual needs. It should be noted that under normal operating conditions where the vehicle does not collide, the adjusting member 74 and its second mating area 740 are generally located at the end of the first mating area 701 of the energy-absorbing strip 70 that is away from the steering wheel (i.e., the end of the first mating area 701 that is away from the first connecting end of the input shaft 1). During the energy absorption process (i.e., the collapse process) when the vehicle collides and the steering column assembly collapses, the distance between the adjusting member 74 and its second mating area 740 and the first connecting end of the input shaft 1 gradually shortens along the length of the energy-absorbing strip 70.

[0036] In some embodiments, the outer walls of the energy-absorbing strip 70 on opposite sides are respectively provided with first mating areas 701. In this case, the first mating areas 701 are strip-shaped areas extending along the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip 70. Alternatively, in other embodiments, in order to gradually increase the interference between the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 during the collapse process, the width and / or thickness of the energy-absorbing strip 70 can also be gradually increased. For example, in the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip 70, the width of any position of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is larger as it approaches the first connecting end of the input shaft 1 (i.e., closer to the steering wheel); and / or, in the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip 70, the thickness of any position of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is larger as it approaches the first connecting end of the input shaft 1 (i.e., closer to the steering wheel). It should be noted that the width and thickness of the energy-absorbing strip 70 are two different dimensions of the energy-absorbing strip 70 in two other dimensions perpendicular to the length direction. For example, Figure 6 L0, L1, and L4 represent the widths of the energy-absorbing strip 70 at different positions. Figure 7L5 in the figure represents the thickness of the energy-absorbing strip 70 at that cross-sectional location. It should also be noted that as the width and / or thickness of the energy-absorbing strip 70 gradually increases, in the direction gradually approaching the first connecting end of the input shaft 1 (closer to the steering wheel), the first mating area 701 is a sloped or stepped surface gradually moving away from the central axis of the energy-absorbing strip 70. Since the length of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is generally much larger than its width and thickness, the first mating area 701 can still be considered as a strip-shaped region extending along the length of the energy-absorbing strip 70. That is, the first mating area 701 extending along the length of the energy-absorbing strip 70 includes: the first mating area 701 being a plane parallel to the central axis of the energy-absorbing strip 70 in the length direction, and the first mating area 701 being a sloped or stepped surface gradually moving away from the central axis of the energy-absorbing strip 70.

[0037] Please see Figures 2 to 5 In some embodiments, the outer walls of the energy-absorbing strip 70 on opposite sides are respectively provided with first mating areas 701, and each first mating area 701 extends along the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip 70; correspondingly, please refer to Figure 5 as well as Figure 8 and Figure 9 The adjusting member 74 includes a first strip-shaped claw 741 and a second strip-shaped claw 742 arranged at intervals. An opening groove is formed between the first strip-shaped claw 741 and the second claw 742, meaning the adjusting member 74 is provided with an opening groove. Two opposite sidewalls within the opening groove are respectively provided with second mating areas 740. Specifically, the sidewall of the first strip-shaped claw 741 near the second strip-shaped claw 742 and the sidewall of the second strip-shaped claw 742 near the first strip-shaped claw 741 are respectively provided with second mating areas 740. When the control component controls the adjusting member 74 to move to different positions, the depth position of the energy-absorbing strip 70 within the opening groove varies. Specifically, in implementation, the moving direction of the adjusting member 74 can be along the radial direction of the input shaft 1, approaching / moving away from the input shaft 1, or it can be at a certain angle to the radial direction of the input shaft 1, as long as the relative position between the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 can be adjusted to achieve the purpose of adjusting the interference fit.

[0038] In some embodiments, in a direction in which the adjusting member 74 gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip 70 along a predetermined direction, the second mating region 740 includes a plurality of optional regions arranged sequentially and capable of gradually increasing the interference fit. For example, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 10 or Figure 12 The inner walls of the first strip claw 741 and the second strip claw 742 are respectively provided with multiple selectable regions arranged sequentially along the depth direction of the opening groove, namely, the first selectable region 7401, the second selectable region 7402, and the third selectable region 7403. Each selectable region can be a plane parallel to the depth direction of the opening groove; in this case, the first mating area 701 can be a plane parallel to the depth direction of the opening groove. Alternatively, please refer to Figure 13In other embodiments, multiple optional regions located on the inner sidewalls of the first strip claw 741 and the second strip claw 742 and arranged sequentially along the depth direction of the opening groove can be inclined surfaces relative to the depth direction of the opening groove, so that the opening groove is funnel-shaped; at this time, the first mating area 701 is also an inclined surface relative to the depth direction of the opening groove, so as to fit tightly and interference fit with the second mating area 740.

[0039] In some embodiments, in the direction in which the adjusting member 74 gradually approaches the energy-absorbing strip 70 along a preset direction, the first mating region 701 includes a plurality of optional regions arranged sequentially and capable of gradually increasing the interference fit. For example, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 The energy-absorbing strip 70 has multiple optional regions arranged sequentially along its thickness direction on both sides, namely, the fourth optional region 7011, the fifth optional region 7012, and the sixth optional region 7013. Each optional region can be a plane parallel to the thickness direction of the energy-absorbing strip (parallel to the depth direction of the opening groove, and also the radial direction of the input shaft 1). In this case, the second mating area 740 can be a plane parallel to the depth direction of the opening groove. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the multiple optional regions located on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip 70 and arranged sequentially along its thickness direction can be inclined surfaces relative to the thickness direction of the energy-absorbing strip, so that the top width of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is smaller than the bottom width. In this case, the second mating area 740 is also an inclined surface relative to the depth direction of the opening groove, so as to fit tightly and with an interference fit with the first mating area 701.

[0040] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the first mating areas 701 located on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip 70 are parallel to each other and the distance between them is a first distance L1; at any depth of the opening groove, the distance between the two second mating areas 740 located opposite each other within the opening groove is a second distance L2; and, in the direction in which the adjusting member 74 gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip 70 along a preset direction, the second distance L2 gradually decreases in a stepwise manner (see [reference]). Figure 10 or Figure 12 ) or decreases gradually and continuously (see also) Figure 5 At this time, the width of the opening end of the slot is the maximum value L2' of the second distance L2, and the width of the bottom end of the slot is the minimum value L2'' of the second distance L2. Furthermore, the first distance L1 is greater than the maximum value L2' of the second distance L2, thereby enabling the adjustment component 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 to achieve an interference fit, and allowing the selection of a suitable optional area based on the actual vehicle conditions.

[0041] Alternatively, please see Figure 11In some embodiments, two second mating areas 740 located opposite each other within the opening groove are parallel to each other and spaced apart by a second distance L2; in any cross section perpendicular to the thickness direction of the energy-absorbing strip (same as the depth direction of the opening groove), the distance between the first mating areas 701 on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is a first distance L1; and, in the direction in which the adjusting member 74 gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip 70 along a preset direction, the first distance L1 gradually decreases in a stepwise manner (see [reference]). Figure 11 ) or decreases gradually and continuously (see also) Figure 13 or Figure 14 Furthermore, the minimum value of the first distance L1 is greater than the second distance L2. This allows for an interference fit between the adjusting component 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70, and enables the selection of a suitable optional area based on the actual vehicle operating conditions.

[0042] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 7 or Figure 12 In the outer walls of the energy-absorbing strip 70, which are positioned opposite each other, in addition to the first mating area 701, a connecting area 702 is also provided. The connecting area 702 is further away from the top surface of the energy-absorbing strip 70 than the first mating area 701. The distance between the first mating areas 701 on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is a first distance L1, and the distance between the connecting areas 702 on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is a third distance L3, where L3 ≤ L1. That is, the top surface width of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is equal to the bottom surface width, in which case the energy-absorbing strip 70 is a straight strip member with a rectangular cross-section; or, the top surface width of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is greater than the bottom surface width (preferably), in which case the energy-absorbing strip 70 is a straight strip member with a trapezoidal or T-shaped cross-section.

[0043] Please see Figure 6 In some embodiments, the energy-absorbing strip 70 includes a starting segment 703, an energy-absorbing main body segment 704, and an ending segment 705 connected sequentially along its length. The widths of the starting segment 703, the energy-absorbing main body segment 704, and the ending segment 705 gradually increase. Figure 6In the context of L4 > L1 > L0, when the vehicle containing the steering column assembly provided in this embodiment is in normal use and no collision has occurred, i.e., before the adjustment member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 in the steering column assembly collapse, the adjustment member 74 is located at the starting end of the energy-absorbing strip 70 and is clearance-fitted with the starting section 703, i.e., L2 > L0, so that the input shaft 1 and the column body 3 maintain normal function. When the vehicle containing the steering column assembly provided in this embodiment collides, the adjustment member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 in the steering column assembly collapse. During this collapse, the adjustment member 74 slides along the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip and is interference-fitted with the energy-absorbing main body section 704, i.e., L2 < L1. Thus, during the sliding of the adjustment member 74 along the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip, the frictional resistance generated between the adjustment member 74 and the energy-absorbing main body section 704 due to the interference fit achieves the effect of continuous energy absorption. During the collapse process, the input shaft 1 slides downward relative to the column body 3, and the energy-absorbing strip 70 slides downward within the opening groove of the adjusting member 74. The energy-absorbing strip 70 and the adjusting member 74 slide relative to each other at the interference fit position, thereby achieving the function of energy absorption. Furthermore, since the width of the termination section 705 of the energy-absorbing strip 70 is relatively large, when the adjusting member 74 slides along the length direction of the energy-absorbing strip to the termination section 705, the termination section 705 can limit the adjusting member 74, preventing the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 from separating.

[0044] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the adjusting member 74 is provided with a rack portion 743; correspondingly, the control component includes a gear 76 and a first power device 79, the gear 76 meshes with the rack portion 743, and the first power device 79 is used to drive the gear 76 to rotate so as to control the adjusting member 74 to move in a preset direction through the rack portion 743.

[0045] Please see Figure 1 as well as Figures 3 to 5 In some embodiments, the steering column assembly further includes a slider 73, a housing 77, and an axial adjustment component 6. The slider 73 and housing 77 are combined and fixedly connected to the column body 3. The adjusting component 74 is at least partially located within the internal cavity of the slider 73 and housing 77, and can move linearly relative to the slider 73 in a preset direction. The axial adjustment component 6 includes an actuator 61 and a second power device 62 for driving the actuator 61 to move in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the input shaft 1. The actuator 61 is connected to at least one of the column body 3 and the slider 73, and is used to control the steering column assembly to move axially along the input shaft 1, thereby adjusting the steering wheel axially. Therefore, the adjusting component 74 and its control component are integrated with the steering wheel axial adjustment, enabling adaptive matching operation without affecting the steering wheel's suction capacity during steering wheel adjustment.

[0046] In practical implementation, the control components in the steering column assembly provided in this application include at least a first power unit 79 and an energy absorption controller 78. The first power unit 79 is connected to the adjusting member 74 via a transmission connection, for example, by controlling the linear movement of the adjusting member 74 through a gear and rack structure. The energy absorption controller 78 is connected to the first power unit 79 via a signal connection and can control the adjusting member 74 to move to different positions according to different vehicle modes and / or different vehicle speeds. This allows the energy absorption capacity of the steering column assembly to be automatically adjusted according to the design value of the steering column assembly in a single vehicle model, following the actual vehicle operating conditions. Specifically, the energy absorption controller 78 can collect the vehicle's driving status in real time and control the first power unit 79 based on real-time information such as vehicle mode and vehicle speed d, thereby achieving the function of dynamic adjustment of the energy absorption capacity. This allows the energy absorption capacity of the steering column to be automatically and dynamically adjusted to match the energy absorption capacity value required by the vehicle at that moment. For example, when the vehicle speed is low, the required energy absorption capacity is small, and the impact on the driver is relatively small. In this case, the first power unit 79 can control the adjusting member 74 to move away from the input shaft 1, so that the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 cooperate through a region with relatively small interference fit. When the vehicle speed is high, more energy needs to be absorbed, and the required energy absorption capacity is larger. In this case, the first power unit 79 can control the adjusting member 74 to move closer to the input shaft 1, so that the adjusting member 74 and the energy-absorbing strip 70 cooperate through a region with relatively large interference fit, thereby meeting the greater energy absorption capacity requirement and achieving a better energy absorption effect. Specifically, the relationship between the adjusting member movement ΔX, interference fit Y, energy absorption capacity F, and vehicle speed u can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 15 Among them, the movement of the adjusting component ΔX, the interference fit Y, and the suction capacity F are all directly proportional to the vehicle speed u.

[0047] However, this is not the only option. In other embodiments, the direction of movement of the adjusting member 7 (i.e., the preset direction mentioned above) may not be perpendicular to the axis of the input shaft 1. For example, see Figure 5 The preset direction for the movement of the control adjustment component 7 can be an acute or obtuse angle between it and the axial direction of the input shaft 1, i.e., a second preset direction X2 that is tilted forward relative to the first preset direction X1, or a third preset direction X3 that is tilted backward relative to the first preset direction X1, as shown in Figure 5. At this time, the fit relationship and interference amount between the two (specifically between the first fit area 701 of the adjustment component 7 and the second fit area 740 of the energy-absorbing strip 70) can also be adjusted by controlling the adjustment component 7 to move away from or closer to the energy-absorbing strip 70.

[0048] For example, see Figure 5The preset direction for the movement of the control adjustment member 7 can be a direction perpendicular to the axis of the input shaft 1 and parallel to the outer tangent of the input shaft 1, that is, the fourth preset direction Y1 perpendicular to the first preset direction X1 shown in Figure 5, or the fifth preset direction Y2 perpendicular to the first preset direction X1. At this time, the fit relationship and interference amount between the two (specifically between the first fit area 701 of the adjustment member 7 and the second fit area 740 of the energy-absorbing strip 70) can also be adjusted by controlling the adjustment member 7 to move away from or closer to the energy-absorbing strip 70.

[0049] In summary, this application also provides a vehicle in which the steering column assembly described above is installed. In this case, the energy absorption controller 78 in the steering column assembly is connected to the vehicle's main controller, and its control logic can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 16 The control system mainly includes a control execution module and a system control module, which are connected via CAN communication and power supply, and are powered by the vehicle's power supply. The control execution module mainly includes a directional position adjustment drive motor for adjusting the column body 3, and a drive motor for adjusting the suction capacity of the steering column assembly. The directional position adjustment drive motor for adjusting the column body 3 can be found in [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 The second power unit 62 in the axial adjustment assembly 6 and the third power unit in the angle adjustment assembly 2 are shown; the drive motor for adjusting and controlling the suction capacity of the steering column assembly can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 1 The first power unit 79 shown is used to control the relative position of the adjusting member 74. The system control module includes multiple functional modules, such as a diagnostic module, a system status management module, a vehicle status estimation module, a speed-following function module, a working condition matching function module, and a mode matching function module. The system control module transmits data through the CAN communication and control execution module and interfaces with external signals through the signal processing module.

[0050] It should be noted that the crumple force and energy absorption capacity mentioned in this application refer to the resistance value when the adjusting component 74 and the energy absorption strip 70 slide relative to each other during the process of vehicle collision and crumple of the steering column assembly.

[0051] Finally, it should be noted that in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0052] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0053] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A steering column assembly, comprising a column body (3) and an input shaft (1), characterized in that, Also includes: An energy-absorbing strip (70) is located on the surface of the input shaft (1). The length direction of the energy-absorbing strip (70) is parallel to the axial direction of the input shaft (1). A first mating area (701) is provided on the surface of the energy-absorbing strip (70). The adjusting member (74) is provided with a second mating area (740) for interference fit with the first mating area (701); A control component is used to control the adjustment member (74) to move along a preset direction. When the adjustment member (74) moves to different positions, the interference between the first mating area (701) and the second mating area (740) is different during the energy absorption process.

2. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the energy-absorbing strip (70), the first mating area (701) is provided on the outer walls of the two opposite sides. The adjusting member (74) is provided with an opening groove, and the two side walls of the opening groove that are opposite each other are respectively provided with the second mating area (740). When the control component controls the adjustment member (74) to move to different positions, the depth position of the energy-absorbing strip (70) in the opening groove is different.

3. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, In the direction in which the adjusting member (74) gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip (70) along the preset direction, the second mating area (740) includes a plurality of selectable areas arranged in sequence and capable of gradually increasing the interference. And / or, in the direction in which the adjusting member (74) gradually approaches the energy-absorbing strip (70) along the preset direction, the first mating area (701) includes a plurality of optional areas arranged in sequence and capable of gradually increasing the interference.

4. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first mating areas (701) located on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip (70) are parallel to each other and the distance between them is a first distance L1; At any depth of the opening groove, the distance between two second mating areas (740) located opposite each other within the opening groove is the second distance L2; In the direction in which the adjusting member (74) gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip (70) along the preset direction, the second distance L2 gradually decreases in a stepwise manner or gradually decreases continuously, and the first distance L1 is greater than the maximum value of the second distance L2. or, The two second mating areas (740) located opposite each other in the opening groove are parallel to each other and the distance between them is the second distance L2; In any cross section perpendicular to the thickness direction of the energy-absorbing strip, the distance between the first mating areas (701) located on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip (70) is the first distance L1; In the direction in which the adjusting member (74) gradually moves away from the energy-absorbing strip (70) along the preset direction, the first distance L1 gradually decreases in a stepwise manner or gradually decreases continuously, and the minimum value of the first distance L1 is greater than the second distance L2.

5. The steering column assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The outer walls of the opposite sides of the energy-absorbing strip (70) include a connecting area (702), which is further away from the top surface of the energy-absorbing strip (70) relative to the first mating area (701); The distance between the first mating areas (701) on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip (70) is the first distance L1, and the distance between the connecting areas (702) on both sides of the energy-absorbing strip (70) is the third distance L3, where L3 ≤ L1.

6. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy-absorbing strip (70) includes a starting segment (703), an energy-absorbing main body segment (704), and an ending segment (705) connected sequentially along the length direction, and the width of the starting segment (703), the energy-absorbing main body segment (704), and the ending segment (705) gradually increases. Before the collapse occurs, the adjusting member (74) is in clearance fit with the starting section (703); During the collapse process, the adjusting member (74) is interference-fitted with the energy-absorbing main body section (704).

7. The steering column assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The adjusting member (74) is provided with a rack portion (743). The control component includes a gear (76) and a first power device (79). The gear (76) meshes with the rack (743). The first power device (79) is used to drive the gear (76) to rotate so as to control the adjusting member (74) to move along the preset direction through the rack (743).

8. The steering column assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: The slider (73) is connected to the column body (3), and the adjusting member (74) is at least partially located in the internal cavity of the slider (73) and can move relative to the slider (73) along the preset direction; The adjustment assembly (6), whose actuator (61) is connected to at least one of the column body (3) and the slider (73), is used to control the axial movement of the steering column assembly along the input shaft (1).

9. The steering column assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control component includes: The first power unit (79) is connected to the adjusting member (74) in a transmission manner; The energy-absorbing controller (78) is connected to the first power unit (79) and can control the adjustment member (74) to move to different positions through the first power unit (79) according to different vehicle modes and / or different vehicle speeds.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, The system is equipped with a steering column assembly as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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