Electric power steering column and vehicle having the same

Abstract

The present embodiment relates to an electric power steering column and a vehicle provided with the same. In more detail, an electric power steering column and a vehicle provided with the same can be provided, in which the output of a motor is minimized by reducing friction when a steering wheel moves in a forward and backward direction, and operation noise can be reduced, and rigidity in an up and down direction and a left and right direction can be ensured, thereby improving the movement stability of the steering wheel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This embodiment relates to an electric steering column that reduces friction and improves operational stability in a structure that moves a steering wheel, and a vehicle equipped with an electric steering column. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a car's steering column is the device that allows the driver to control the vehicle's direction of travel by operating the steering wheel.

[0003] Existing steering systems use a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels to transmit steering force. However, in recent years, electric steering systems, such as Steer-by-Wire (SBW), have been developed that eliminate the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels and control steering via electrical signals.

[0004] An electric steering column includes a telescopic function for adjusting the position of the steering wheel in the fore-and-aft direction to suit the driver's height or build, and a tilt function for adjusting the tilt angle in the vertical direction.

[0005] This function allows drivers to adjust the steering wheel's protrusion and tilt angle to suit their height or body type, enabling smooth steering maneuvers.

[0006] The existing telescopic function is achieved by a structure in which the support bracket moves along the guide surface of the mounting bracket in a sliding friction manner.

[0007] In this case, the large contact area between the support bracket and the guide surface results in significant frictional resistance, and there is a need to increase the output of the motor used for telescopic drive.

[0008] In addition, the low operational quality is caused by contact noise generated by sliding friction.

[0009] At this point, the steering column has a structure that requires the transport of heavy components such as the steering wheel and reaction force drive unit, in addition to the mounting bracket. Therefore, the transport load is large, and the accumulated frictional resistance requires a large motor output. In addition, there is the problem of noise generated during operation.

[0010] In particular, the rigidity in the vertical and horizontal directions is insufficient, resulting in poor stability of the steering wheel. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The problem the invention aims to solve This embodiment can provide an electric steering column that minimizes motor output by reducing friction when the steering wheel moves in the forward and backward directions, reduces operating noise, and ensures rigidity in the vertical and horizontal directions, thereby improving the stability of steering wheel movement, as well as a vehicle equipped with an electric steering column.

[0012] means for solving problems According to one aspect, this embodiment can provide an electric steering column, the electric steering column comprising: a mounting bracket fixed to a vehicle body, having a receiving space formed inside the mounting bracket, and guide portions extending along the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction formed on one or both sides of the receiving space in the width direction; a support bracket that contacts the guide portions in a rolling friction manner and is disposed in the receiving space of the mounting bracket in a manner capable of moving in the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction; an outer tube, an inner tube supporting the rotation of the steering shaft disposed in the outer tube in a manner capable of being inserted into or protruding from the outer tube, the outer tube being supported by the support bracket; and a tilting bracket disposed between the support bracket and the outer tube and performing the tilting action of the steering wheel.

[0013] According to another embodiment, this embodiment can provide a vehicle comprising: an electric steering column that rotatably supports a steering wheel and includes a reaction force drive unit that generates a steering reaction torque corresponding to the operation of the steering wheel and provides it to a steering shaft that rotates with the steering wheel when the steering wheel rotates; a steering drive unit that is mechanically separated from the steering shaft and changes the steering angle of the wheels based on an electrical signal; and a control unit that controls the reaction torque of the reaction force drive unit and the steering action of the steering drive unit based on steering input information of the steering wheel and driving state information of the vehicle. The electric steering column includes: a mounting bracket. A mounting bracket is fixed to the vehicle body and has a receiving space formed inside it. A guide portion extending toward the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction is formed on one or both sides of the receiving space in the width direction. A support bracket contacts the guide portion in a rolling friction manner and is disposed in the receiving space of the mounting bracket in a manner that allows it to move toward the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction. An outer tube is disposed in the outer tube that supports the rotation of the steering shaft and is able to be inserted into or protrude from the outer tube. The outer tube is supported by the support bracket. A tilting bracket is disposed between the support bracket and the outer tube and performs the tilting action of the steering wheel.

[0014] Invention Effects According to this embodiment, an electric steering column and a vehicle equipped with an electric steering column can be provided, which can minimize the output of the motor by reducing friction when the steering wheel moves in the forward and backward directions, reduce operating noise, and ensure rigidity in the up-down and left-right directions, thereby improving the movement stability of the steering wheel. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates the structure of a vehicle's steer-by-wire steering column.

[0016] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a front view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a top view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 It shows along Figure 6 A side sectional view of the section along line AA′ in the diagram.

[0021] Figure 8 It shows along Figure 6 The main sectional view of the section along line BB′ in the figure.

[0022] Figure 9 It shows along Figure 6 The main sectional view of the section along line CC′ in the diagram.

[0023] Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a side view showing the operating state of the electric steering column according to this embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the electric steering column according to this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. When adding reference numerals to the constituent elements in each drawing, even if the same constituent elements are shown in different drawings, they can be given the same reference numerals as much as possible. Furthermore, when describing this embodiment, if a detailed description of a related known structure or function is deemed likely to obscure the essence of the technical concept, its detailed description may be omitted. When terms such as "comprising," "having," or "consisting of" are used in the specification, other parts may be added unless "only" is used. When a constituent element is expressed in the singular, it may also include a plural, unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0026] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used when describing the constituent elements of this disclosure. These terms are used only to distinguish the constituent element from other constituent elements, and the nature, sequence, order, or number of the constituent elements is not limited by these terms.

[0027] In describing the positional relationship of constituent elements, it should be understood that when two or more constituent elements are described as "connected," "combined," or "joined," the two or more constituent elements are directly "connected," "combined," or "joined," and the two or more constituent elements and other constituent elements may further be "between" and "connected," "combined," or "joined." Among these, other constituent elements may be included in one or more of the two or more constituent elements that are "connected," "combined," or "joined" with each other.

[0028] In descriptions of time-flow relationships related to constituent elements, action methods, or production methods, for example, when using terms such as "~after", "~next", "~after", "~before" to describe time relationships or sequential relationships, non-continuous cases may also be included, unless "immediately" or "directly" is used.

[0029] On the other hand, when referring to the numerical value of a constituent element or its corresponding information (e.g., grade, etc.), even without a separate explicit record, the numerical value or its corresponding information can be interpreted as including the range of error caused by various factors (e.g., process factors, internal or external shocks, noise, etc.).

[0030] Figure 1 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates the structure of a vehicle's steer-by-wire steering column. Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment. Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment. Figure 5 This is a front view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment. Figure 6 This is a top view showing the electric steering column according to this embodiment. Figure 7It shows along Figure 6 A side sectional view of the section along line AA′ in the diagram. Figure 8 It shows along Figure 6 The main sectional view of the section along line BB′ in the middle. Figure 9 It shows along Figure 6 The main sectional view of the section along line CC′ in the middle. Figure 10 and Figure 11 This is a side view showing the operating state of the electric steering column according to this embodiment. Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the electric steering column according to this embodiment.

[0031] The vehicle according to this embodiment includes: an electric steering column 10 for rotatably supporting a steering wheel 11, and a reaction force drive unit 20 that generates a steering reaction torque corresponding to the operation of the steering wheel 11 and provides it to a steering shaft 70 that rotates together with the steering wheel 11 when the steering wheel 11 rotates; a steering drive unit 80 that is mechanically separated from the steering shaft 70 and changes the steering angle of the wheels 90 based on an electrical signal; and a control unit 900 that controls the reaction torque of the reaction force drive unit 20 and the steering action of the steering drive unit 80 based on steering input information of the steering wheel 11 and driving state information of the vehicle.

[0032] Hereinafter, a vehicle equipped with an electric steering column according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] In this embodiment, the direction of the steering wheel is defined as the front side and its opposite direction as the rear side.

[0034] That is, the side where the driver is located and the steering wheel is installed is defined as the front side, and the side where the reaction force drive unit is installed is defined as the rear side.

[0035] Therefore, each component of the electric steering column moves towards the direction of the steering wheel or forward, indicating a movement closer to the driver, and moves in the opposite direction or rearward, indicating a movement further away from the driver.

[0036] In addition, the width direction refers to the left-right direction, which is perpendicular to the front-back direction, while the up-down direction refers to the direction that is perpendicular to both the front-back direction and the width direction.

[0037] The steering wheel 11 transmits the driver's operating force to the steering shaft 70, and provides steering input information for rotational input to the control unit 900 via the steering shaft 70.

[0038] The control unit 900 controls the reaction force drive unit 20 based on the steering input information, thereby generating an appropriate steering reaction torque on the steering shaft 70, and changes the steering angle of the wheel 90 by controlling the steering drive unit 80.

[0039] The control unit 900 comprehensively analyzes various driving status information such as steering torque, vehicle speed, and acceleration detected by the torque sensor 60, and thereby executes optimal steering control.

[0040] The steering shaft 70 includes an input shaft 710, an intermediate shaft 720, a reaction force transmission shaft 730, and a torsion bar 740, and rotates together with the steering wheel 11 when the steering wheel 11 is rotated.

[0041] The input shaft 710 is rotatably supported on the inner tube 600. The front side of the input shaft 710 is connected to the steering wheel 11, and the rear side of the input shaft 710 is connected to the intermediate shaft 720.

[0042] The intermediate shaft 720 is rotatably supported on the outer tube 500. The front side of the intermediate shaft 720 is connected to the input shaft 710, and the rear side of the intermediate shaft 720 is connected to the reaction force transmission shaft 730.

[0043] The reaction force transmission shaft 730 is connected to the intermediate shaft 720 via a torsion bar 740, thereby transmitting the reaction force motor output of the reaction force drive unit 20 to the intermediate shaft 720.

[0044] Torque sensor 60 detects the relative rotational displacement between intermediate shaft 720 and reaction force transmission shaft 730 caused by the torsion of torsion bar 740 and transmits it to control unit 900, wherein torsion bar 740 elastically connects intermediate shaft 720 and reaction force transmission shaft 730.

[0045] The reaction force drive unit 20 is configured to provide steering reaction force to the steering wheel 11 via the steering shaft 70.

[0046] The reaction force drive unit 20 can generate a steering reaction torque corresponding to the operation of the steering wheel 11 and provide it to the steering shaft 70, thereby providing the driver with an appropriate steering feel.

[0047] The steering drive unit 80 is mechanically separated from the steering shaft 70, and the steering angle of the wheel 90 is changed based on the electrical signal from the control unit 900.

[0048] The control unit 900 can change the direction of travel of the vehicle 1 by controlling the steering drive unit 80.

[0049] The control unit 900 controls the reaction torque of the reaction force drive unit 20 and the steering action of the steering drive unit 80 based on the steering input information of the steering wheel 11 and the driving status information of the vehicle 1.

[0050] In this embodiment, the description is mainly based on a steer-by-wire (SBW) configuration where the steering shaft 70 and the steering drive unit 80 are mechanically separated. However, the configuration could also be one where the steering shaft 70 and the steering drive unit 80 are mechanically connected.

[0051] The electric steering column according to this embodiment includes: a mounting bracket 100 fixed to the vehicle body of a vehicle 1, a receiving space 120 formed inside the mounting bracket 100, and guide portions 130 extending in the direction of or opposite to the steering wheel 11 formed on one or both sides of the receiving space 120 in the width direction; a support bracket 200 that contacts the guide portions 130 in a rolling friction manner and is disposed in the receiving space 120 of the mounting bracket 100 in a manner that allows it to move in the direction of or opposite to the steering wheel 11; an outer tube 500, an inner tube 600 that supports the rotation of the steering shaft 70 and is disposed in the outer tube 500 in a manner that allows it to be inserted into or protruded from the outer tube 500, the outer tube 500 being supported by the support bracket 200; and a tilting bracket 400 disposed between the support bracket 200 and the outer tube 500 and performing the tilting action of the steering wheel 11.

[0052] Mounting bracket 100 is fixed to the vehicle body and supports support bracket 200, tilt bracket 400, outer tube 500 and inner tube 600.

[0053] An accommodating space 120 is formed inside the mounting bracket 100, and a guide portion 130 extending toward or opposite to the steering wheel 11 is formed on one or both sides of the accommodating space 120 in the width direction.

[0054] The mounting bracket 100 has a plurality of fastening holes 110 for inserting bolts, etc. The mounting bracket 100 can be fixed to the vehicle body by inserting bolts into the fastening holes 110 and engaging with the vehicle body.

[0055] Furthermore, guide portions 130 extending toward or opposite to the steering wheel 11 are formed on both sides of the width of the accommodating space 120.

[0056] The guide portion 130 may be formed on one or the other side of the receiving space portion 120 in the width direction, or it may be formed on both sides in the width direction.

[0057] The guide portion 130 includes: a first guide surface 132 formed to face the receiving space portion 120 in the width direction; a second guide surface 134 formed on the upper side of the first guide surface 132 in the opposite direction to the vehicle body connection side; and a third guide surface 136 formed on the lower side of the first guide surface 132 in the opposite direction to the second guide surface 134.

[0058] The first guide surface 132 is formed such that the two sides of the receiving space 120 face each other in the width direction, and the first sliding bushing 290 contacts the first guide surface 132.

[0059] Multiple first movable support parts 250 contact the second guide surface 134 and roll.

[0060] The second guide surface 134 extends in the direction of or opposite to the steering wheel 11 to guide the movement of the first moving support 250.

[0061] Multiple second movable support parts 260 contact the third guide surface 136 and roll.

[0062] The third guide surface 136 extends in the direction of or opposite to the steering wheel 11 to guide the movement of the second moving support 260.

[0063] The second guide surface 134 and the third guide surface 136 are configured to face each other, thereby ensuring vertical rigidity of the support bracket 200 during movement.

[0064] That is, the first movable support 250 and the second movable support 260 are always in contact with the second guide surface 134 and the third guide surface 136, respectively, thus preventing the support bracket 200 from swaying in the vertical direction.

[0065] In this embodiment, the electric steering column 10 further includes: a first actuator 30 coupled to the support bracket 200; and a first screw 32, which rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the first actuator 30. The first screw 32 is coupled to a first screw engagement portion 140 disposed at the end of the mounting bracket 100, thereby causing the support bracket 200 to move in the direction of the steering wheel 11 or the opposite direction.

[0066] The first actuator 30 can be a pneumatic, hydraulic or electric motor, and can rotate the first screw 32 in one direction or the opposite direction according to the control signal received from the control unit 900.

[0067] The first screw 32 can be configured as a ball screw or a lead screw and is threadedly engaged with the first screw engagement portion 140, thereby converting rotary motion into linear motion.

[0068] The first screw coupling portion 140 is located at the rear end of the mounting bracket 100, and the first screw 32 is coupled to the first screw coupling portion 140.

[0069] Accordingly, when the first screw 32 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction, the support bracket 200 moves forward or backward.

[0070] The support bracket 200 contacts the guide portion 130 by rolling friction and is disposed in the receiving space portion 120 of the mounting bracket 100 in a manner that allows it to move in the direction of the steering wheel 1 or the opposite direction.

[0071] The support bracket 200 moves forward or backward via the first actuator 30, thereby causing the steering wheel 11 to move forward or backward.

[0072] This enables the extension and retraction function for adjusting the position of the steering wheel 11 in the forward and backward directions.

[0073] The support bracket 200 is disposed in the receiving space 120 of the mounting bracket 100 in a manner that allows it to move in the forward and backward directions.

[0074] A first support hole 210, a second support hole 220, and a plurality of first support parts 230 and a plurality of second support parts 240 are formed on both sides of the support bracket 200.

[0075] A first support hole 210 is formed on the front side of the support bracket 200, a second support hole 220 is formed on the rear side of the support bracket 200, a plurality of first support portions 230 are formed on the upper side of the second support portion 240, and a plurality of second support portions 240 are formed on the lower side of the first support portion 230.

[0076] The first support holes 210 are formed on both sides of the support bracket 200 in the width direction, so that the first connecting member 270 connected to the first connecting hole 420 of the inclined bracket 400 will be inserted into or connected to the first support hole 210.

[0077] The first connecting member 270 serves to support the tilting motion of the steering shaft 70.

[0078] The second support holes 220 are formed on both sides of the support bracket 200 in the width direction, so that the second connecting member 280 connected to the second connecting hole 510 of the outer tube 500 will be inserted into or connected to the second support hole 20.

[0079] The second connecting member 280 serves to fix the outer tube 500 to the support bracket 200.

[0080] In this embodiment, the friction reducing member 272 is disposed in the form of a bushing between the first support hole 210 and the first connecting member 270, and the friction reducing member 282 is disposed in the form of a bushing between the second support hole 220 and the second connecting member 280.

[0081] Multiple first support portions 230 are formed on both sides of the support bracket 200 in the width direction, spaced apart in the front-rear direction, and a first movable support portion 250 is attached to the first support portions 230.

[0082] The first support portion 230 has a first insertion hole 232 for the insertion portion 356 of the first support member 252 to be inserted or engaged.

[0083] Multiple second support portions 240 are formed on both sides of the support bracket 200 in the width direction, spaced apart in the front-rear direction, and a second movable support portion 260 is attached to the second support portions 240.

[0084] The second support portion 240 has a second insertion hole 242 for the insertion portion 366 of the second support member 262 to be inserted or engaged.

[0085] In this embodiment, the first movable support portion 250 and the second movable support portion 260 are formed in multiples on both sides of the support bracket 200 in the width direction.

[0086] Therefore, the electric steering column 10 can distribute the load of the support bracket 200, thereby enabling the support bracket 200 to move stably.

[0087] The first movable support 250 contacts the second guide surface 134 in the direction of vehicle body connection and rolls.

[0088] More specifically, the first movable support 250 includes: a first support member 252 coupled to the support bracket 200; a first rolling contact member 254 disposed on the first support member 252 and in contact with the second guide surface 134 and rolling; and a first friction reducing member 256 disposed between the first rolling contact member 254 and the anti-detachment portion 354 of the first support member 252 or between the first rolling contact member 254 and the support bracket 200, and reducing friction when the first rolling contact member 254 rotates.

[0089] The first support member 252 is coupled to the first insertion hole 232, thereby rotatably supporting the first rolling contact member 254 while preventing the first rolling contact member 254 from disengaging.

[0090] The first support member 252 includes: a support shaft portion 352 that rotatably supports the first rolling contact member 254; an anti-detachment portion 354 that extends in an enlarged diameter shape and is formed on one or the other side of the support shaft portion 352, and prevents the first rolling contact member 254 from detaching; and an insertion portion 356 that extends in a reduced diameter shape and is formed on the opposite side of the support shaft portion 352 where the anti-detachment portion 354 is formed, and is coupled to the first insertion hole 232 of the support bracket 200.

[0091] The support shaft portion 352 can be formed in a cylindrical or cylindrical shape to rotatably support the first rolling contact member 254, which is connected to the outside of the support shaft portion 352 in a ring shape and rotated by a ball or roller that performs a rolling motion.

[0092] The anti-detachment portion 354 is formed on one or the other side of the support shaft portion 352 in a shape with an enlarged diameter and an extended shape, thereby preventing the first rolling contact member 254 from detaching.

[0093] The anti-detachment part 354 is formed with a diameter larger than that of the support shaft part 352, thereby preventing the first rolling contact member 254 from detaching axially.

[0094] The insertion portion 356 extends in a reduced diameter shape and is formed on the opposite side of the support shaft portion 352 where the anti-disengagement portion 354 is formed, and is engaged with the first insertion hole 232.

[0095] The insertion portion 356 is formed with a diameter smaller than that of the support shaft portion 352 and is coupled to the first insertion hole 232 of the first support portion 230.

[0096] The first rolling contact member 254 is disposed on the first support member 252, and contacts the second guide surface 134 and rolls.

[0097] The first rolling contact member 254 is configured as a cylindrical roller or bearing that contacts the second guide surface 134 in the opposite direction to the vehicle body joint side and rolls.

[0098] The first friction-reducing member 256 is disposed between the first rolling contact member 254 and the anti-detachment portion 354 of the first support member 252 or between the first rolling contact member 254 and the support bracket 200, thereby reducing the friction when the first rolling contact member 254 rotates.

[0099] That is, the first friction reducing member 256 reduces the friction between the first rolling contact member 254 and the anti-disengagement part 354 or between the first rolling contact member 254 and the support bracket 200 when the first rolling contact member 254 rotates, and prevents the first rolling contact member 254 from moving left and right, thereby preventing low operating performance.

[0100] This first friction-reducing member 256 can be configured as a washer and can be made of a low-friction plastic material such as polyamide (PA) or polyoxymethylene (POM) to reduce the coefficient of friction of the contact surface when the first rolling contact member 254 rotates.

[0101] The second movable support 260 contacts the third guide surface 136 formed opposite to the second guide surface 134 and rolls.

[0102] More specifically, the second movable support 260 includes: a second support member 262 coupled to the support bracket 200; a second rolling contact member 264 disposed on the second support member 262 and in contact with the third guide surface 136 and rolling; and a second friction reducing member 266 disposed between the second rolling contact member 264 and the anti-detachment portion 364 of the second support member 262 or between the second rolling contact member 264 and the support bracket 200, and used to reduce friction when the second rolling contact member 264 rotates.

[0103] The second support member 262 is engaged with the second insertion hole 242 and rotatably supports the second rolling contact member 264 while preventing the second rolling contact member 264 from disengaging.

[0104] The second support member 262 includes: a support shaft portion 362 that rotatably supports the second rolling contact member 264; an anti-detachment portion 364 that extends in an enlarged diameter shape and is formed on one or the other side of the support shaft portion 362, and prevents the second rolling contact member 264 from detaching; and an insertion portion 366 that extends in a reduced diameter shape and is formed on the opposite side of the support shaft portion 362 where the anti-detachment portion 364 is formed, and is coupled to the second insertion hole 242 of the support bracket 200.

[0105] The support shaft portion 362 can be formed into a cylindrical or cylindrical shape that rotatably supports the second rolling contact member 264. The second rolling contact member 264 is connected to the outside of the support shaft portion 362 in a ring shape and rotates by a ball or roller that performs rolling motion.

[0106] The anti-detachment portion 364 is formed on one or the other side of the support shaft portion 362 in a shape with an enlarged diameter and an extended shape, thereby preventing the second rolling contact member 264 from detaching.

[0107] The anti-detachment part 364 is formed with a diameter larger than that of the support shaft part 362, thereby preventing the second rolling contact member 264 from detaching along the axial direction.

[0108] The insertion portion 366 extends in a reduced diameter shape and is formed on the opposite side of the support shaft portion 362 where the anti-disengagement portion 364 is formed, and is engaged with the second insertion hole 242.

[0109] The insertion portion 366 is formed with a diameter smaller than that of the support shaft portion 362, and is coupled to the second insertion hole 242 of the second support portion 240.

[0110] The second rolling contact member 264 is disposed on the second support member 262 and contacts the third guide surface 136 and rolls.

[0111] The second rolling contact member 264 is configured as a cylindrical roller or bearing that contacts the third guide surface 136 in the direction of the vehicle body joint side and rolls.

[0112] The second friction-reducing member 266 is disposed between the second rolling contact member 264 and the anti-detachment portion 364 of the second support member 262 or between the second rolling contact member 264 and the support bracket 200, thereby reducing the friction when the second rolling contact member 264 rotates.

[0113] That is, the second friction reducing member 266 is disposed between the second rolling contact member 264 and the anti-disengagement part 364 or between the second rolling contact member 264 and the support bracket 200 when the second rolling contact member 264 rotates, thereby reducing the friction when the second rolling contact member 264 rotates.

[0114] The second friction reducing member 266 reduces the friction between the second rolling contact member 264 and the anti-disengagement part 364 or between the second rolling contact member 264 and the support bracket 200 when the second rolling contact member 264 rotates, and prevents the second rolling contact member 264 from moving left and right, thereby preventing poor operating performance.

[0115] This second friction-reducing member 266 can be configured as a washer and can be made of a low-friction plastic material such as polyamide (PA) or polyoxymethylene (POM) to reduce the coefficient of friction of the contact surface when the second rolling contact member 264 rotates.

[0116] The outer tube 500 is supported by the support bracket 200, the inner tube 600 is provided on the front side of the outer tube 500 in such a way that it can be inserted into or protrude from the outer tube 500, and the reaction force driving part 20 is provided on the rear side of the outer tube 500.

[0117] The outer tube 500 moves together with the support bracket 200 in the front-to-back direction, and the tilting action is performed by the tilting bracket 400.

[0118] A second engagement hole 510 is formed on the rear side of the outer tube 500 for engaging with the second engagement member 280, and a third engagement hole 520 is formed on the front side of the outer tube 500 for engaging with the support shaft member 430.

[0119] The second connecting holes 510 are formed on both sides of the outer tube 500 in the width direction, and the second connecting member 280, which passes through the second support hole 220 of the support bracket 200, is connected to the second connecting hole 510.

[0120] The outer tube 500 rotates around the second connecting member 280 and performs a tilting action on the steering shaft 70.

[0121] The third connecting hole 520 is formed on both sides of the outer tube 500 in the width direction, and the support shaft member 430 that passes through the insertion hole 410 of the inclined bracket 400 is connected to the third connecting hole 520.

[0122] The inner tube 600 supports the rotation of the steering shaft 70 and is inserted into or protrudes out of the outer tube 500 via the third actuator 50, thereby adjusting the additional fore-and-aft position of the steering wheel 11.

[0123] At this time, in the outer tube 500, the holder part 540 for supporting the inner tube 600 is connected to the through hole 560 of the outer tube 500, and the holder part 540 applies a specified pressure to the inner tube 600 and supports the inner tube 600.

[0124] The support part 540 includes a pressure-applying member 542, a washer 544, and a fastening bolt 546. The pressure-applying member 542 applies a specified pressure to the inner tube 600 by tightening the fastening bolt 546, thereby fixing the position of the inner tube 600.

[0125] A third screw 52 is attached to the third screw joint 610, thereby causing the inner tube 600 to move forward or backward when the third screw 52 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction.

[0126] The third screw connection 610 is disposed on the outside of the inner tube 600 and is connected to the inner tube support 620 disposed on the inside of the inner tube 600, thereby supporting the inner tube 600.

[0127] Next, the electric steering column 10 includes: a second actuator 40 coupled to the outer tube 500; and a second screw 42, which rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the second actuator 40 and is coupled to a second screw coupling portion 450 disposed at the end of the tilt bracket 400 in a manner that performs a tilting action, thereby causing the tilt bracket 400 to rotate and perform a tilting action.

[0128] The second actuator 40 can be a pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric motor, and can rotate the second screw 42 in one direction or the opposite direction according to the control signal received from the control unit 900.

[0129] The second screw 42 can be configured as a ball screw or a feed screw and is threadedly engaged with the second screw engagement portion 450, thereby converting rotary motion into angular motion.

[0130] The second screw 42 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the second actuator 40 and engages with the second screw engagement portion 450, which is provided at the end of the tilting bracket 400 to perform a tilting action.

[0131] The tilt bracket 400 is positioned between the support bracket 200 and the outer tube 500 and performs the tilting action of the steering wheel 11.

[0132] The tilt bracket 400 rotates around the first connecting member 270 via the second actuator 40 and performs the tilting action of the steering wheel 11.

[0133] If the second screw 42 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction, the tilting bracket 400 rotates around the first connecting member 270 and performs a tilting action.

[0134] This allows for the tilting function used to adjust the vertical angle of the steering wheel 11.

[0135] The inclined bracket 400 has an insertion hole 410 for inserting the support shaft member 430 and a first engagement hole 420 for engaging the first engagement member 270.

[0136] Insertion holes 410 are formed on both sides of the inclined bracket 400 in the width direction, and the support shaft member 430, which is connected to the third connection hole 520 of the outer tube 500, is inserted into the insertion holes 410 on both sides.

[0137] The first connecting hole 420 is formed on both sides of the inclined bracket 400 in the width direction with the rotation center of the inclined bracket 400. The first connecting member 270 passes through the first support hole 210 of the support bracket 200 and is connected to the first connecting hole 420 on both sides respectively.

[0138] The support shaft member 430 connects the outer tube 500 and the tilt bracket 400, and supports the tilt bracket 400 in such a way that the tilt bracket 400 performs a tilting action.

[0139] The friction-reducing component 440 is inserted into the insertion hole 410 and supports the rotation of the support shaft component 430, and reduces the friction of the support shaft component 430 when it rotates.

[0140] In this embodiment, the friction reduction member 440 may be configured as a bearing or bushing and support the rotation of the support shaft member 430.

[0141] The second screw connection portion 450 is disposed at the lower end of the inclined bracket 400, and the second screw 42 is connected to the second screw connection portion 450.

[0142] Next, the electric steering column 10 includes: a third actuator 50 coupled to the outer tube 500; and a third screw 52, ​​which rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the third actuator 50 and is coupled to a third screw coupling 610 provided in the inner tube 600, thereby moving the inner tube 600 in the direction or the opposite direction of the steering wheel 11.

[0143] The third actuator 50 can be a pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric motor, and can rotate the third screw 52 in one direction or the opposite direction according to the control signal received from the control unit 900.

[0144] The third screw 52 can be configured as a ball screw or a feed screw and is threaded into the third screw engagement part 610, thereby converting rotary motion into linear motion.

[0145] The third screw 52 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the third actuator 50 and is disposed at the third screw engagement portion 610 of the inner tube 600 in such a way as to move the inner tube 600 in the direction or the opposite direction of the steering wheel 11.

[0146] Accordingly, if the third screw 52 rotates in one direction, the inner tube 600 protrudes outward from the outer tube 500; if the third screw 52 rotates in the opposite direction, the inner tube 600 inserts into the interior of the outer tube 500, thereby allowing adjustment of the additional fore-and-aft position of the steering wheel 11.

[0147] That is, the inner tube 600 moves forward or backward via the third actuator 50, thereby causing the steering wheel 11 to move forward or backward.

[0148] This enables the extension and retraction function for adjusting the position of the steering wheel 11 in the forward and backward directions.

[0149] A third screw 52 is attached to the third screw joint 610, thereby causing the steering wheel 11 to move forward or backward when the third screw 52 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction.

[0150] In this embodiment, the electric steering column 10 includes an inner tube support portion 620, which is disposed inside the inner tube 600 and connected to a third screw connection portion 610 disposed outside the inner tube 600, thereby fixing the inner tube 600 to the third screw connection portion 610.

[0151] The inner tube support portion 620 is disposed on the inner side of the inner tube 600 and is coupled to the third screw coupling portion 610 disposed on the outer side of the inner tube 600, thereby fixing the inner tube 600 to the third screw coupling portion 610.

[0152] A third screw connection 610 is disposed on the outer side of the inner tube 600, and an inner tube support 620 is disposed on the inner side of the inner tube 600. The third screw connection 610 applies pressure to the inner tube 600 and engages with the inner tube support 620.

[0153] When the third screw 52 rotates in one direction or the opposite direction, the inner tube support 620, together with the third screw engagement 610, moves the steering wheel 11 forward or backward.

[0154] The electric steering column 10 also includes an impact absorbing member 800, which is formed by combining with the inner tube 600 and extending towards the steering wheel 11. It bends from the direction of the steering wheel 11 toward the direction of the reaction force drive unit 20 in a manner surrounding the inner tube support 620, and moves together with the inner tube 600 when the vehicle 1 is involved in a collision, thereby absorbing the impact while realizing the plastic deformation of the bent part by the inner tube support 620.

[0155] The impact-absorbing member 800 is attached to the inner tube 600 and is formed to extend in the direction of the steering wheel 11 and bend from the direction of the steering wheel 11 toward the direction of the reaction force drive part 20 in a manner surrounding the inner tube support part 620.

[0156] One end or the other end of the impact absorbing member 800 is fixed to the inner tube 600 by a fixing part 810 including bolts, rivets, etc. The impact absorbing member 800 is formed in a shape that bends from the direction of the steering wheel 11 toward the direction of the reaction force drive part 20 in a manner surrounding the inner tube support part 620.

[0157] The impact-absorbing component 800 can be formed of sheet metal and is usually kept in a bent state. When a collision occurs in front of the vehicle 1, the bent part moves backward together with the inner tube 600 and is unfolded by the inner tube support 620.

[0158] In this way, the impact-absorbing member 800 moves together with the inner tube 600 when the vehicle 1 is involved in a collision, thereby absorbing the impact while achieving plastic deformation of the bent part by the inner tube support 620.

[0159] According to the electric steering column 10 of this embodiment, when the vehicle 1 is involved in a collision, the impact absorbing member 800 absorbs the impact energy during the process of plastic deformation, thereby effectively mitigating the impact transmitted to the driver.

[0160] Furthermore, the electric steering column 10 according to this embodiment also includes: a first sliding bushing 290 disposed between the mounting bracket 100 and the support bracket 200 and reducing friction when the support bracket 200 moves; and a second sliding bushing 530 disposed between the support bracket 200 and the outer tube 500 and reducing friction between the support bracket 200 and the outer tube 500 when tilting is performed.

[0161] The first sliding bushing 290 is disposed between the mounting bracket 100 and the support bracket 200, thereby reducing the friction between the mounting bracket 100 and the support bracket 200 when the support bracket 200 moves in the forward and backward direction.

[0162] The first sliding bushing 290 may be formed of a low-friction material and is incorporated into the support bracket 200 to reduce friction between the contact surface with the mounting bracket 100 when the support bracket 200 moves in the forward and backward direction.

[0163] This first sliding bushing 290 can also serve to ensure the lateral rigidity of the support bracket 200.

[0164] The second sliding bushing 530 is positioned between the support bracket 200 and the outer tube 500, thereby reducing friction between the support bracket 200 and the outer tube 500 when performing tilting actions.

[0165] The second sliding bushing 530 may be formed of a low-friction material and is incorporated into the outer tube 500 to reduce friction between the contact surface with the support bracket 200 when the outer tube 500 performs a tilting action.

[0166] In this embodiment, the electric steering column 10 adjusts the position of the steering wheel 11 by operating the first actuator 30, the second actuator 40, and the third actuator 50.

[0167] According to the electric steering column 10 of this embodiment, if the first actuator 30 causes the first screw 32 to rotate, the support bracket 200 moves to the rearward side.

[0168] When the support bracket 200 moves, the first rolling contact member 254 of the first moving support part 250 contacts the second guide surface 134 and rolls, and the second rolling contact member 264 of the second moving support part 260 contacts the third guide surface 136 and rolls.

[0169] At this time, the first rolling contact member 254 and the second rolling contact member 264 move in a rolling friction manner instead of a sliding friction manner, thus significantly reducing friction.

[0170] Furthermore, the first rolling contact member 254 and the second rolling contact member 264 can reduce friction during rotation via the first friction reducing member 256 and the second friction reducing member 266.

[0171] like Figure 10 As shown, if the support bracket 200 moves to the rearward side, the outer tube 500, the inner tube 600, and the steering shaft 70 move to the rearward side together, thereby moving the steering wheel 11 away from the driver.

[0172] Furthermore, according to the electric steering column 10 of this embodiment, if the first actuator 30 causes the first screw 32 to rotate in the opposite direction, the support bracket 200 moves forward.

[0173] When the support bracket 200 moves, the first movable support part 250 and the second movable support part 260 move in a rolling friction manner, which can significantly reduce friction.

[0174] like Figure 11 As shown, if the support bracket 200 moves forward, the outer tube 500, the inner tube 600, and the steering shaft 70 move forward together, thereby moving the steering wheel 11 toward the driver.

[0175] Furthermore, if the second actuator 40 causes the second screw 42 to rotate in one direction or the opposite direction, the tilting bracket 400 rotates by a predetermined angle θ1 about the first connecting member 270.

[0176] As the tilt bracket 400 rotates, the outer tube 500, the inner tube 600, and the steering shaft 70 rotate together around the second connecting member 280, thereby adjusting the vertical angle θ2 of the steering wheel 11.

[0177] Furthermore, if the third actuator 50 causes the third screw 52 to rotate in one direction or the opposite direction, the inner tube 600 protrudes outward from the outer tube 500 or is inserted into the interior of the outer tube 500.

[0178] That is, if the third screw 52 rotates in one direction, the inner tube 600 protrudes outward from the outer tube 500; if the third screw 52 rotates in the opposite direction, the inner tube 600 is inserted into the interior of the outer tube 500.

[0179] This allows for additional fore-and-aft position adjustment of the steering wheel 11.

[0180] Thus, according to this embodiment, the support bracket 200 moves in the forward and backward direction, and the inner tube 600 protrudes out of or inserts into the outer tube 500, thereby enabling the protrusion distance of the steering shaft 70 to be freely adjusted within the range of minimum distance L1 to maximum distance L2.

[0181] As described above, in this embodiment, the position of the steering wheel 11 in the front-to-back direction and the angle in the up-and-down direction can be adjusted in a variety of ways by the action of the first actuator 30, the second actuator 40 and the third actuator 50, and the position of the steering wheel 11 optimized for the driver's height or body type can be provided.

[0182] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first rolling contact member 254 contacts the second guide surface 134 and rolls, and the second rolling contact member 264 contacts the third guide surface 136 and rolls, thereby minimizing the friction generated when the support bracket 200 moves, reducing the motor output of the first actuator 30, and reducing operating noise.

[0183] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first rolling contact member 254 is always in contact with and supported by the second guide surface 134, and the second rolling contact member 264 is always in contact with and supported by the third guide surface 136, thereby ensuring rigidity in the vertical direction and effectively preventing the support bracket 200 from swaying in the vertical direction.

[0184] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first sliding bushing 290 is disposed between the mounting bracket 100 and the support bracket 200, thereby ensuring rigidity in the left and right directions and preventing poor operation by allowing it to move left and right.

[0185] Thus, the electric steering column 10 according to this embodiment adopts rolling friction, which not only reduces friction and minimizes motor output and reduces operating noise, but also improves the movement stability of the steering wheel 11 by ensuring rigidity in the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0186] The above description is merely an exemplary explanation of the technical concept of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art will be able to make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of this technical concept. Furthermore, these embodiments are not intended to limit the technical concept of this disclosure, but rather to illustrate it; therefore, the scope of this technical concept is not limited by these embodiments.

Claims

1. An electric steering column, characterized in that, include: Mounting bracket, fixed to the vehicle body, with a receiving space formed inside the mounting bracket, and guide portions extending toward or opposite to the steering wheel formed on one or both sides of the receiving space in the width direction; The support bracket contacts the guide portion in a rolling friction manner and is disposed in the receiving space of the mounting bracket in a manner that allows it to move in the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction. An outer tube and an inner tube supporting the rotation of the steering shaft are provided in the outer tube in such a way that they can be inserted into or protrude from the outer tube, and the outer tube is supported by the support bracket. as well as A tilting bracket is disposed between the support bracket and the outer tube and performs the tilting action of the steering wheel.

2. The electric steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide section includes: The first guide surface is formed to face the receiving space portion in the width direction. The second guide surface is formed on the upper side of the first guide surface in the opposite direction to the side where the vehicle body is joined, and A third guide surface is formed on the lower side of the first guide surface in a manner that faces the second guide surface; The support bracket includes: The first movable support contacts the second guide surface and rolls. The second movable support contacts the third guide surface and rolls.

3. The electric steering column according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first movable support and the second movable support are formed in multiple portions on both sides of the support bracket in the width direction.

4. The electric steering column according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first movable support includes: A first support member is attached to the support bracket; and A first rolling contact member is disposed on the first support member and contacts the second guide surface and rolls.

5. The electric steering column according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first support member includes: The support shaft portion rotatably supports the first rolling contact member; An anti-detachment portion, extending in an enlarged diameter shape, is formed on one or the other side of the support shaft portion, and prevents the first rolling contact member from detaching; and An insertion portion, extending in a reduced diameter shape, is formed on the opposite side of the support shaft portion where the anti-detachment portion is formed, and is attached to the support bracket.

6. The electric steering column according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first movable support also includes a first friction-reducing component. The first friction-reducing component is disposed between the first rolling contact component and the anti-detachment portion of the first support component or between the first rolling contact component and the support bracket, and reduces friction when the first rolling contact component rotates.

7. The electric steering column according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first friction-reducing component is formed of a low-friction plastic material that reduces the coefficient of friction of the contact surface when the first rolling contact component rotates.

8. The electric steering column according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second movable support includes: A second support member is attached to the support bracket; and The second rolling contact member is disposed on the second support member and contacts the third guide surface and rolls.

9. The electric steering column according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second support member includes: The support shaft portion rotatably supports the second rolling contact member; An anti-detachment portion, extending in an enlarged diameter shape, is formed on one or the other side of the support shaft portion, and prevents the second rolling contact member from detaching; and An insertion portion, extending in a reduced diameter shape, is formed on the opposite side of the support shaft portion where the anti-detachment portion is formed, and is attached to the support bracket.

10. The electric steering column according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second movable support also includes a second friction-reducing member. The second friction-reducing component is disposed between the anti-disengagement portion of the second rolling contact component and the second support component, or between the second rolling contact component and the support bracket, and reduces friction when the second rolling contact component rotates.

11. The electric steering column according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second friction-reducing component is formed of a low-friction plastic material that reduces the coefficient of friction of the contact surface when the second rolling contact component rotates.

12. The electric steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first sliding bushing, which is disposed between the mounting bracket and the support bracket and reduces friction when the support bracket moves.

13. The electric steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second sliding bushing, which is disposed between the support bracket and the outer tube and reduces friction between the support bracket and the outer tube when a tilting action is performed.

14. The electric steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first actuator is coupled to the support bracket; as well as The first screw rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the first actuator. The first screw is engaged with a first screw engagement portion disposed at the end of the mounting bracket, and causes the support bracket to move in the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction.

15. The electric steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A second actuator is attached to the outer tube; as well as The second screw rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the second actuator. The second screw is engaged with the second screw engagement portion located at the end of the tilting bracket in a manner that performs a tilting action, thereby causing the tilting bracket to rotate.

16. The electric steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A third actuator is attached to the outer tube; as well as The third screw rotates in one direction or the opposite direction via the third actuator. The third screw is engaged with the third screw engagement portion provided in the inner tube, and causes the inner tube to move in the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction.

17. The electric steering column according to claim 16, characterized in that, It also includes an inner tube support portion, which is disposed inside the inner tube and engages with the third screw connection portion disposed outside the inner tube, wherein the inner tube support portion fixes the inner tube to the third screw connection portion.

18. The electric steering column according to claim 17, characterized in that, It also includes impact-absorbing components, The impact-absorbing member is integrated with the inner tube and extends toward the steering wheel, bending from the direction of the steering wheel toward the direction of the reaction force drive portion in a manner surrounding the inner tube support. When a vehicle collides, the impact-absorbing member moves together with the inner tube and absorbs the impact while the bent part undergoes plastic deformation through the inner tube support.

19. A vehicle, characterized in that, include: An electric steering column supports a steering wheel in a rotatable manner and includes a reaction force drive unit that generates a steering reaction torque corresponding to the operation of the steering wheel and provides it to a steering shaft that rotates together with the steering wheel when the steering wheel rotates. The steering drive unit is mechanically separated from the steering shaft and changes the wheel steering angle based on electrical signals. The control unit controls the reaction torque of the reaction force drive unit and the steering action of the steering drive unit based on the steering input information of the steering wheel and the driving status information of the vehicle. The electric steering column includes: A mounting bracket is fixed to the vehicle body. An accommodating space is formed inside the mounting bracket. Guide portions extending towards or opposite to the steering wheel are formed on one or both sides of the accommodating space in the width direction. The support bracket contacts the guide portion via rolling friction and is positioned within the receiving space of the mounting bracket in a manner that allows it to move in the direction of the steering wheel or the opposite direction. An outer tube and an inner tube supporting the rotation of the steering shaft are disposed in the outer tube in a manner that allows them to be inserted into or protrude from the outer tube, the outer tube being supported by the support bracket. A tilting bracket is disposed between the support bracket and the outer tube and performs the tilting action of the steering wheel.

20. The vehicle according to claim 19, characterized in that, The steering shaft includes: An input shaft is rotatably supported on the inner tube and connected to the steering wheel; An intermediate shaft, rotatably supported on the outer tube and connected to the input shaft; and The reaction force transmission shaft is connected to the intermediate shaft via a torsion bar and transmits the output of the reaction force motor to the intermediate shaft.

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