A test and adjustment device for steering column handle forces

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of steering column handle force test and adjusting equipment, the equipment includes workbench, and installation is on workbench upper loading mechanism, lower loading mechanism, conveying mechanism and test and adjusting mechanism.Upper loading mechanism realizes the alternation of first test and adjusting station with loading station by carousel, lower loading mechanism realizes the reciprocating transfer of second test and adjusting station and unloading station, conveying mechanism links two test and adjusting stations.Test and adjusting mechanism includes two test and adjusting modules, corresponding two test and adjusting stations respectively;Test and adjusting module integrates test component and adjusting component, test component is driven by eccentric transmission member to pull handle, while collecting angle and torque signal;Adjusting component is calibrated handle force by rotating head screwing nut.The equipment realizes the full-process automation parallel operation of loading, testing, adjusting and unloading, with compact structure, high production efficiency, good calibration accuracy advantage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of automotive parts assembly technology, specifically to a device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force. Background Technology

[0002] In automotive steering systems, the steering column is a core component connecting the steering wheel and the steering gear. It is locked and unlocked via a lever to adjust the steering wheel position. The lever's operating force (i.e., lever force) directly affects the driver's handling feel and driving safety. Therefore, precise testing of the lever force is essential during the steering column's manufacturing process. When the lever force exceeds the design tolerance, calibration is required by tightening the adjusting nut on the steering column. Currently, common steering column lever force testing and adjustment equipment and methods suffer from the following main problems: Firstly, in terms of overall process layout, existing equipment mostly adopts a single workstation or multiple independent workstations with separate functions. For example, processes such as loading, testing, adjustment, and unloading often need to be completed sequentially on different dedicated equipment or workstations. This serial operation mode causes workpieces to be repeatedly moved and clamped between different processes, which not only significantly increases auxiliary time, resulting in long single-piece inspection cycles and low production efficiency, but also easily introduces positioning reference deviations through multiple clamping, affecting the accuracy of the final test results and the consistency of adjustment and calibration. Although some equipment attempts to integrate individual functions, there is still a lack of a systematic solution that can organically integrate loading, at least two tests, adjustment, conveying, and unloading to achieve fully automated, parallel, and continuous operation, making it difficult to meet the requirements of modern large-scale production for high efficiency and stable quality.

[0003] Secondly, existing technologies face bottlenecks in implementing key testing and adjustment functions. Traditional solutions typically separate the testing and adjustment stations. For workpieces that fail inspection, they need to be manually moved to the adjustment station for nut tightening, and then returned to the testing station for retesting. This often requires repeated "test-adjustment-test" cycles, which are cumbersome, labor-intensive, and rely heavily on manual experience for accuracy. To address this issue, the industry has attempted to integrate testing and adjustment functions into a single station. However, because the motion trajectory of the force-applying component that rotates the handle during testing differs from that of the tightening head used to tighten the nut during adjustment, and their working areas are prone to overlap and mechanical interference in a confined space, existing integration solutions often have to resort to adding complex station switching mechanisms or deliberately increasing the spacing between mechanisms to avoid this problem. This not only makes the equipment structure bulky, increases manufacturing costs, and slows down the operation cycle, but also reduces the reliability of the system.

[0004] In summary, how to provide a device that can systematically integrate feeding, conveying, unloading, and multi-station testing and adjustment functions, while cleverly avoiding mutual interference between testing and adjustment mechanisms within the same compact testing and adjustment module, and achieving fully automated, high-efficiency, and high-precision testing and adjustment, is a key technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a device for testing and adjusting the steering column handle force. This device boasts the outstanding advantages of compact structure, high cycle time, precise control, and reliable operation, providing an innovative and practical solution for the high-quality, large-scale production of automotive steering columns.

[0006] Specifically, the following technical solutions are included: This application provides a device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force, including: Workbench; The feeding mechanism, installed on the workbench, includes a feeding station that can rotate alternately and a first testing and adjustment station, and the workpiece can be fed to the feeding station and transferred to the first testing and adjustment station; The unloading mechanism, installed on the workbench, includes a second testing and adjustment station and an unloading station. The workpiece can move between the second testing and adjustment station and the unloading station, and unload the product from the unloading station. A conveying mechanism, installed on the workbench, is used to convey the workpiece from the first testing and adjusting station to the second testing and adjusting station; A testing and adjustment mechanism, installed on the workbench, includes two testing and adjustment modules. One of the testing and adjustment modules corresponds to the first testing and adjustment station and is used to test and / or adjust the handle force of the workpiece in the first testing and adjustment station. The other testing and adjustment module corresponds to the second testing and adjustment station and is used to test and / or adjust the handle force of the workpiece in the second testing and adjustment station. The testing and adjustment module includes a testing component and an adjustment component. The testing component includes a testing drive mechanism, a testing shaft connected to the testing drive mechanism, an angle encoder, a torque sensor, and an eccentric transmission component connected to the testing shaft, and a shift finger connected to the eccentric transmission component. The testing drive mechanism drives the shift finger to rotate within a rotational area against the handle of the workpiece via the testing shaft and the eccentric transmission component to test the handle force of the workpiece. The adjustment component includes an adjustment drive mechanism and a rotating head connected to the adjustment drive mechanism. The adjustment drive mechanism drives the rotating head to tighten the nut of the workpiece to adjust the handle force of the workpiece. The rotational area and the rotating head are spatially separated.

[0007] In one embodiment of this application, the feeding mechanism further includes: The rotating assembly includes a first drive mechanism mounted on a worktable, a turntable drivenly connected to the first drive mechanism, and a fixed plate fixedly connected to the first drive mechanism. The first drive mechanism is used to drive the turntable to rotate. The loading station and the first testing and adjustment station are respectively located on both sides of the turntable. Each includes a first fixing component fixedly installed on the turntable for fixing the workpiece, and a first unlocking component fixedly installed on the worktable for unlocking the workpiece. The first fixing component includes a first base, a clamping block slidably connected to the first base and arranged opposite to each other, a fixing block fixedly installed on the first base and located on one side of the clamping block, and a spring abutting between the clamping block and the fixing block. The first unlocking component includes a third driving mechanism and a trapezoidal block connected to the output end of the third driving mechanism. The clamping block is connected to a roller that cooperates with the inclined surface of the trapezoidal block. The third driving mechanism is used to drive the trapezoidal block away from the roller, and the two opposing clamping blocks move closer to each other under the drive of the spring to clamp the workpiece, or the third driving mechanism is used to drive the inclined surface of the trapezoidal block to abut against the roller, so that the two clamping blocks overcome the elastic force of the spring and move away from each other to release the workpiece.

[0008] In one embodiment of this application, a first anti-rotation component is fixedly installed on the fixed plate corresponding to the first test and adjustment station. The first anti-rotation component includes a second drive mechanism, a first movable seat driven by the second drive mechanism, a pin seat fixedly connected to the first movable seat, and a pin fixedly installed in the pin seat. The workpiece is connected to a handle by a nut and a screw. The second drive mechanism is used to drive the pin to move through the first movable seat and the pin seat, so that the pin is inserted into the end of the screw of the workpiece fixed in the first fixed component of the first test and adjustment station, or so that the pin is disengaged from the screw.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the first base is fixedly mounted with a first guide rail, and the two clamping blocks are slidably connected to the first guide rail. One of the clamping blocks is fixedly connected with a positioning pin, and the other clamping block is provided with a pin hole that cooperates with the positioning pin. The positioning pin is configured to be inserted into a positioning hole on the positioning ear plate of the workpiece.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, a support frame for supporting the workpiece is fixedly installed on the first base, the inner circumference of the screw end is configured as a polygonal structure, the outer circumference of the pin is configured as a polygonal structure that mates with the inner circumference of the screw end, and a plurality of support seats mounted on the worktable are provided below the turntable, the support seats and the turntable being connected by ball bearings.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the test assembly further includes a first reducer connected to the output end of the test drive mechanism, a torque limiter connected to the output end of the first reducer, a first synchronous belt transmission mechanism connected to the output end of the torque limiter, and a bearing housing. The test shaft is connected to the output end of the first synchronous belt transmission mechanism and rotatably connected in the bearing housing. The test drive mechanism drives the eccentric transmission member to rotate through the test shaft. The eccentric transmission member is fixedly connected to the end of the test shaft and is eccentrically arranged to avoid the rotating head. The adjustment assembly further includes a second reducer connected to the output end of the adjustment drive mechanism, and a second synchronous belt conveyor connected to the output end of the second reducer. The rotating head is connected to the output end of the second synchronous belt conveyor.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the testing and adjustment mechanism further includes a mounting base, on which two testing and adjustment modules are mounted. A lifting mechanism is fixedly mounted on the mounting base, and the output end of the lifting mechanism is connected to a connector. A first lifting seat is fixedly connected to the connector. Each testing and adjustment module further includes a second base, with the first lifting seat and the second base fixedly connected. The lifting mechanism drives the testing and adjustment module to move up and down. A fourth drive mechanism is fixedly mounted on the second base, with its output end connected to a second movable seat. The fourth drive mechanism drives the second movable seat to move. A fifth drive mechanism is fixedly mounted on the second movable seat, with its output end fixedly connected to a first connector. A movable plate is fixedly connected to the first connector, and the fifth drive mechanism drives the movable plate to move via the first connector. The testing component and the adjustment component are mounted on the movable plate.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the shift finger is fixedly connected to the end of the eccentric transmission member and is configured to be inserted into the rods on both sides of the handle of the workpiece.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the conveying mechanism includes: The conveyor frame is fixedly installed on the workbench; The sixth drive mechanism is fixedly installed on the conveyor frame. The output end of the sixth drive mechanism is connected to the third movable seat. The sixth drive mechanism is used to drive the third movable seat to move. A seventh drive mechanism is fixedly installed on the third movable base. The output end of the seventh drive mechanism is connected to a movable frame. The seventh drive mechanism is used to drive the movable frame to move. A gripper drive mechanism is fixedly installed on the movable frame. The output end of the gripper drive mechanism is connected to a gripper. The gripper drive mechanism is used to drive two relatively arranged grippers to move closer to each other to clamp the workpiece, or to drive two relatively arranged grippers to move away from each other to release the workpiece. The two grippers are provided with V-grooves on opposite sides that mate with the outer periphery of the workpiece; there are at least two sets of gripper driving mechanisms, and the at least two sets of gripper driving mechanisms drive the grippers to clamp the two ends of the workpiece respectively.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the feeding mechanism includes: The transfer assembly includes a base fixedly installed on the workbench, an eighth drive mechanism fixedly installed on the base, and a connecting plate connected to the output end of the eighth drive mechanism. The second test and adjustment station and the unloading station are respectively located on both sides of the base. Both the second test and adjustment station and the unloading station are provided with a second unlocking assembly. The second unlocking assembly has the same structure as the first unlocking assembly. The second fixing component has the same structure as the first fixing component, is slidably connected to the base and fixedly connected to the connecting plate, and the eighth driving mechanism drives the second fixing component to reciprocate between the second test and adjustment station and the unloading station through the connecting plate; A lifting assembly, installed below the base, includes a ninth drive mechanism and a second lifting seat connected to the output end of the ninth drive mechanism. The ninth drive mechanism is used to drive the second lifting seat to lift. The second anti-rotation component has the same structure as the first anti-rotation component. The second anti-rotation component is installed on the second lifting base. The base has a through hole corresponding to the second test and adjustment station for the second anti-rotation component to pass through. The pin of the second anti-rotation component is used to cooperate with the screw of the workpiece fixed in the second fixing component located in the second test and adjustment station.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the steering column handle force testing and adjustment device provided in this application has the following advantages: To address the problems of low production efficiency and loss of positioning accuracy caused by the independent loading, testing, adjustment, and unloading processes in existing technologies, which require repeated clamping and handling, this application constructs a continuous automated operation system integrating loading, primary testing and adjustment, automatic conveying, secondary testing and adjustment, and unloading. This system is achieved by configuring an alternately rotatable loading station and a first testing and adjustment station on the worktable, a unloading mechanism that can move between the second testing and adjustment station and the unloading station, and a conveying mechanism to connect the two testing and adjustment stations. Combined with two testing and adjustment modules corresponding to the respective stations, this system integrates loading, primary testing and adjustment, automatic conveying, secondary testing and adjustment, and unloading. When the loading station clamps the workpiece, the first testing and adjustment station can simultaneously perform testing and adjustment, achieving spatial parallelism between loading and processing processes. The workpiece is automatically transferred to the second station via the conveying mechanism for retesting and calibration, eliminating the need for manual cross-station handling. This integrated layout significantly shortens the single-piece processing cycle, improves equipment utilization and production cycle time, and avoids positioning reference deviations introduced by multiple clamping, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of testing and adjustment.

[0017] To address the technical challenge of motion interference between the shift finger used to operate the handle and the rotating head used to tighten the nut when integrating testing and adjustment functions into a single module, this application's testing and adjustment module fixes the eccentric transmission component that drives the shift finger to the end of the testing shaft and adopts an eccentric setting. This eccentric structure naturally offsets the rotational working area of ​​the shift finger from the space where the rotating head of the adjustment component is located, eliminating interference and eradicating the root cause of interference from a mechanical configuration perspective. Therefore, this application successfully achieves compact, interference-free collaborative operation of the two sets of actuators for testing and adjustment at the same workstation without the need for complex avoidance or station switching mechanisms. This significantly simplifies the equipment structure, reduces manufacturing costs, and significantly improves cycle time and operational reliability.

[0018] To address the issues of lack of force feedback closed-loop, low adjustment accuracy, and poor consistency in traditional substation operations and manual adjustment modes, this application incorporates an angle encoder and torque sensor connected to the test axis in the testing component. This enables real-time and accurate acquisition of angle and torque parameters characterizing the handle's operating force. The control system automatically determines whether the handle force is within acceptable limits based on the comparison between the acquired data and preset thresholds. If the force exceeds the tolerance, the system immediately controls the rotating head of the adjustment component to tighten and calibrate the nut, achieving a fully automated closed-loop control of "measurement-judgment-adjustment-retest." Furthermore, by having two testing and adjustment modules corresponding to two connected workstations, workpieces that still fail to meet the requirements after one adjustment can be automatically transferred to the second workstation for multiple cyclic retests and supplementary calibrations, forming a multi-cycle automatic adjustment mechanism in a production line manner. This ensures that the handle force of each product is reliably calibrated to the acceptable range. This solution elevates the consistency of adjustment accuracy and product locking force to a new level, completely replacing reliance on subjective human experience, reducing labor intensity, and ensuring the objectivity and uniformity of production line quality control.

[0019] As a further optimization, the loading and unloading mechanisms of this application can also adopt an automatic centering clamping structure including trapezoidal blocks, rollers, and springs, as well as a polygonal pin-type anti-rotation component. The automatic centering clamping structure uses a spring to drive the normally closed clamping block, and the trapezoidal block and rollers cooperate to achieve rapid release under a single drive source. It is convenient to operate and has a constant clamping force, effectively preventing workpiece damage. The anti-rotation component uses a pin to form a locking engagement with the polygonal hole at the end of the screw during adjustment, reliably locking the screw. This eliminates the need for an additional wrench to tighten the nut, improving adjustment efficiency and eliminating the risk of scratches on parts or personal injury caused by tool slippage. This further enhances the overall automation level and operational safety of the equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the device for testing and adjusting the steering column handle force according to this application.

[0021] Figure 2 This is another perspective view of the testing and adjustment equipment for the steering column handle force in this application.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the workpiece in this application.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of the feeding mechanism in this application.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the material feeding organization from another perspective.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the feeding mechanism of this application without the workpiece being fixed.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the first fixing component of this application.

[0027] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the workpiece fixed by the first fixing component of this application.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of the testing and adjustment mechanism of this application.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional view of the test and adjustment module of this application.

[0030] Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional view of the testing and adjustment module in this application.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a top view of the test and adjustment module of this application.

[0032] Figure 13This is a perspective view of the test and adjustment module structure used in this application to test and adjust the workpiece.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the conveying mechanism of this application.

[0034] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the material feeding mechanism in this application.

[0035] Figure 16 This is a three-dimensional view of the material cutting mechanism in this application.

[0036] In the diagram: 1. Workbench; 11. Storage rack; 2. Feeding mechanism; 21. Rotating assembly; 211. Turntable; 212. First drive mechanism; 213. Fixed plate; 214. Support base; 22. First fixing assembly; 221. First base; 222. Clamping block; 223. Fixing block; 224. Spring; 225. Positioning pin; 226. Pin hole; 227. Roller; 228. First guide rail; 229. Support frame; 23. Feeding station; 24. First testing and adjustment station; 25. First anti-rotation assembly; 251. Second drive mechanism; 252. Pin 253. Pin; 254. First movable seat; 26. First unlocking component; 261. Third drive mechanism; 262. Trapezoidal block; 3. Test and adjustment mechanism; 31. Test and adjustment module; 311. Second base; 312. Fourth drive mechanism; 313. Second movable seat; 314. Fifth drive mechanism; 315. First connecting seat; 316. Test component; 3160. Test shaft; 3161. Test drive mechanism; 3162. First reducer; 3163. Torque limiter; 3164. First synchronous belt transmission mechanism; 3165. Angle Encoder; 3166, Torque sensor; 3167, Eccentric transmission component; 3168, Pulley finger; 3169, Bearing housing; 317, Adjustment assembly; 3171, Adjustment drive mechanism; 3172, Second reducer; 3173, Second synchronous belt transmission mechanism; 3174, Rotating head; 318, Moving plate; 32, Mounting base; 321, Lifting mechanism; 322, Connector; 323, First lifting seat; 4, Conveying mechanism; 41, Conveying frame; 42, Sixth drive mechanism; 43, Third moving seat; 44, Seventh drive mechanism; 45, Moving frame; 46. 47. Gripper drive mechanism; 48. Gripper; 5. V-groove; 5. Unloading mechanism; 51. Transfer assembly; 511. Base; 512. Eighth drive mechanism; 513. Connecting plate; 52. Lifting assembly; 521. Ninth drive mechanism; 522. Second lifting seat; 523. Mounting bracket; 53. Second testing and adjustment station; 54. Unloading station; 55. Second fixing assembly; 56. Second anti-rotation assembly; 57. Second unlocking assembly; 6. Workpiece; 61. Handle; 62. Nut; 63. Screw; 64. Positioning ear plate; 65. Positioning hole; 7. Sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The technical solutions of this application will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. 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.

[0038] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on this application. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The terms "first position" and "second position" refer to two different positions.

[0039] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections or detachable connections; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal connections between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0040] like Figures 1 to 16 As shown, this application provides a steering column handle force testing and adjustment device, including a workbench 1, a storage rack 11 disposed beside the workbench 1 for carrying a workpiece 6, and a loading mechanism 2, a testing and adjustment mechanism 3, a conveying mechanism 4, and a unloading mechanism 5 installed on the workbench 1. The loading mechanism 2 includes a loading station 23 and a first testing and adjustment station 24 that can rotate alternately. The workpiece 6 can be loaded from the storage rack 11 to the loading station 23. The loading station 23 and the first testing and adjustment station 24 rotate alternately, allowing the workpiece 6 to be transferred from the loading station 23 to the first testing and adjustment station 24, where the handle force is tested and adjusted. The unloading mechanism 5 includes a second testing and adjustment station 53 and an unloading station 54. The workpiece 6 can move between the second testing and adjustment station 53 and the unloading station 54, and is unloaded from the unloading station 54. The conveying mechanism 4 is used to transfer the workpiece 6 from the first testing and adjustment station 24 to the second testing and adjustment station 53.

[0041] The testing and adjustment mechanism 3 includes two testing and adjustment modules 31. One testing and adjustment module 31 corresponds to the first testing and adjustment station 24 and is used to test and / or adjust the handle force of the workpiece 6 in the first testing and adjustment station 24. After the workpiece 6 completes the handle force test and / or adjustment in the first testing and adjustment station 24, the conveying mechanism 4 transfers the workpiece 6 from the first testing and adjustment station 24 to the second testing and adjustment station 53. The other testing and adjustment module 31 corresponds to the second testing and adjustment station 53 and is used to test and / or adjust the handle force of the workpiece 6 in the second testing and adjustment station 53. After the final test and adjustment, the workpiece 6 moves from the second testing and adjustment station 53 to the unloading station 54 and is unloaded from the unloading station 54.

[0042] like Figures 4 to 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the loading mechanism 2 mainly includes a rotating component 21, loading stations 23 and a first testing and adjustment station 24 disposed on both sides of the rotating component 21, first fixing components 22 respectively installed on the two stations, and first unlocking components 26 respectively corresponding to the first fixing components 22 on the two stations. The rotating component 21 is used to drive the two stations to switch alternately, the first fixing components 22 are used to automatically clamp the steering column workpiece 6, and the first unlocking components 26 are used to unlock the clamped workpiece 6 to facilitate loading, testing, and handle force adjustment operations.

[0043] Optionally, the rotating assembly 21 specifically includes a turntable 211, a first drive mechanism 212, and a fixed disk 213. The first drive mechanism 212 is fixedly mounted on the worktable 1, and its output end is connected to the center drive of the turntable 211 to drive the turntable 211 to rotate around the vertical axis. In this embodiment, the first drive mechanism 212 can be a servo motor with a reducer to achieve precise intermittent indexing rotation. The fixed disk 213 is fixedly connected to the fixed end (such as a housing or mounting base) of the first drive mechanism 212 by a bracket and is suspended above the turntable 211, so that the fixed disk 213 remains stationary when the turntable 211 rotates. Several support seats 214 are also provided below the turntable 211. The support seats 214 are evenly arranged in a ring at the lower edge of the turntable 211, and the top of the support seats 214 rolls in contact with the bottom surface of the turntable 211 through ball bearings. Thus, the support base 214 can provide stable support for the turntable 211 and the workpiece on it, and effectively reduce the frictional resistance when the turntable 211 rotates, ensuring smooth and stable operation. The first drive mechanism 212 is located in the middle of the annular area formed by several support bases 214, making the overall structural layout more compact.

[0044] Optionally, the loading station 23 and the first testing and adjustment station 24 are respectively arranged on opposite radial sides of the turntable 211. Each station is equipped with a set of first fixing components 22 and a set of first unlocking components 26 for fixing and unlocking the workpiece 6. Since the structures of the two sets of first fixing components 22 and the two sets of first unlocking components 26 are exactly the same, one set will be described in detail as an example. The first fixing component 22 includes a first base 221, a clamping block 222, a fixing block 223, a spring 224 and a roller 227. The first unlocking component 26 includes a third driving mechanism 261 and a trapezoidal block 262. The first base 221 of the first fixing component 22 of the loading mechanism 2 is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the turntable 211 and rotates synchronously with the turntable 211. A horizontally extending first guide rail 228 is fixedly provided on the first base 221. The two clamping blocks 222 are arranged opposite each other along the direction of the first guide rail 228 and are slidably connected to the first guide rail 228, thereby moving closer or further apart from each other. The fixing block 223 is fixedly installed on the first base 221 and located on the outer side of each clamping block 222, away from the other clamping block 222. A spring 224 is abutting between the clamping block 222 and the corresponding fixing block 223. The spring 224 always applies an elastic force toward the inward side to the clamping block 222, causing the two clamping blocks 222 to tend to move closer to each other. In this embodiment, the spring 224 is a compression spring, but it is understood that in other embodiments, a tension spring can also be used and the same function can be achieved by changing the installation position.

[0045] The third drive mechanism 261 of the first unlocking component 26 is fixedly mounted on the worktable 1, and its output end is connected to a trapezoidal block 262. The trapezoidal block 262 has two wedge-shaped surfaces symmetrical about its axis of motion, and the two wedge-shaped surfaces are arranged in an outward V-shape. Correspondingly, rollers 227 are connected to the two clamping blocks 222 respectively through brackets, and the wheel surface of the rollers 227 cooperates with the corresponding inclined surface of the trapezoidal block 262. In a typical clamping state, the third drive mechanism 261 drives the trapezoidal block 262 to retract axially, so that its inclined surface disengages from the surface of the rollers 227. At this time, the clamping block 222 slides inward along the first guide rail 228 under the thrust of the spring 224, and the clamping surfaces of the two clamping blocks 222 approach each other until they contact and clamp the workpiece 6 placed between them. Conversely, when it is necessary to release or unlock workpiece 6, the third drive mechanism 261 drives the trapezoidal block 262 to extend, and the inclined surface gradually presses against the roller 227, forcing the roller 227 to drive the clamping block 222 to move outward, thereby overcoming the elastic force of the spring 224, causing the two clamping blocks 222 to move away from each other, releasing and unlocking workpiece 6. This clamping structure uses spring force to achieve flexible clamping, which not only ensures reliable clamping force but also avoids hard pressure damage to the workpiece surface. At the same time, the force-increasing mechanism of the trapezoidal block 262 and the roller 227 makes the clamping operation respond quickly, with good repeatability and consistent positioning, significantly reducing the intensity of manual labor.

[0046] To achieve precise positioning and stable support for workpiece 6, the feeding mechanism 2 is further equipped with a positioning guide structure and an auxiliary support structure. Specifically, a positioning pin 225 is fixedly connected to the clamping surface of one of the clamping blocks 222, and the positioning pin 225 extends horizontally toward the other clamping block 222; a pin hole 226 for the positioning pin 225 to pass through is provided at the corresponding position of the other clamping block 222. The structure of workpiece 6 is as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the main body has positioning ear plates 64 on both sides, and positioning holes 65 are provided on the positioning ear plates 64. When the workpiece 6 is placed in the clamping area, the positioning pin 225 passes through the positioning hole 65 of the positioning ear plate on one side of the workpiece and finally inserts into the pin hole 226 of the opposite clamping block 222, thereby achieving precise positioning of the workpiece 6 in the horizontal direction and effectively preventing the workpiece from moving or deflecting during testing or adjustment. At the same time, a support frame 229 is also fixedly installed on the first base 221. The top surface shape of the support frame 229 is adapted to the bottom contour of the workpiece 6 to provide auxiliary support in the vertical direction, reduce the cantilever load of the clamping block 222, and further improve the fixation stability.

[0047] Furthermore, this application provides a first anti-rotation component 25 at the corresponding position of the first testing and adjustment station 24. The first anti-rotation component 25 of the feeding mechanism 2 is mounted on the fixed plate 213 and includes a second drive mechanism 251. The second drive mechanism 251 can also be a linear drive element such as a cylinder or an electric cylinder. The output end of the second drive mechanism 251 is driven and connected to a first moving seat 254. A pin seat 252 is fixedly mounted on the first moving seat 254, and a pin 253 is fixed inside the pin seat 252. The axial direction of the pin 253 is consistent with the movement direction of the second drive mechanism 251 and is aligned with the axial end of the screw 63 of the workpiece 6 when it is clamped at the first testing and adjustment station 24. The inner circumference of the end of the screw 63 is machined into a polygonal hole, and the outer circumference of the pin 253 is machined into a matching outer polygonal contour. When the handle force needs adjustment, the second drive mechanism 251 drives the first moving seat 254 and the pin seat 252 forward, so that the pin 253 is precisely inserted into the polygonal hole at the end of the screw 63, forming a circumferential locking, thereby reliably locking the rotational freedom of the screw 63. When tightening the nut 62, since the screw 63 is fixed, the nut 62 can rotate independently and smoothly, thereby changing the tightening torque of the handle 61. The entire adjustment process is efficient and convenient, and fundamentally avoids scratches or edge wear on the head of the screw caused by using a wrench to hold it. After the adjustment is completed, the second drive mechanism 251 drives the pin 253 in the opposite direction to completely disengage from the screw 63, restoring the workpiece 6 to its free state for subsequent testing or unloading.

[0048] In addition, sensors 7 are installed on the fixed plate 213 at positions corresponding to the loading station 23 and / or the first test and adjustment station 24. Sensors 7 can be proximity switches or photoelectric sensors, used to detect whether there is a workpiece 6 at the corresponding station, and send the detection signal to the control system to realize automated interlocking control, prevent malfunctions at empty stations, and improve operational safety and intelligence.

[0049] The following describes the principle of the feeding mechanism 2 provided in this application embodiment, which realizes parallel operation of feeding, testing, and adjustment, in conjunction with the working process. Before the operation begins, the turntable 211 places the first set of first fixing components 22 on the feeding station 23, and the second set of first fixing components 22 on the first testing and adjustment station 24. The operator first moves the workpiece 6 to be tested to the feeding station 23, places it on the support frame 229, and makes the positioning pin 225 pass through the positioning hole 65 of the positioning ear plate 64. Then, the control system controls the third drive mechanism 261 of the feeding station 23 to retract the trapezoidal block 262, and the clamping block 222 automatically centers and clamps the workpiece 6 under the action of the spring 224, completing the feeding clamping. During this process, the first testing and adjustment station 24 can simultaneously perform the handle force test task: the testing and adjustment mechanism 3 cooperates with the handle 61 of the workpiece 6 to apply simulated operating force to test the handle force of the workpiece 6. If the test result determines that the handle force is qualified, no adjustment is required; if the test result deviates from the set range, the adjustment procedure is initiated: the second drive mechanism 251 of the first anti-rotation component 25 of the loading mechanism 2 is activated, inserting the pin 253 into the end of the screw 63 to lock it, and then the testing and adjustment mechanism 3 automatically tightens the nut 62 to adjust it to the qualified range. After the adjustment is completed, the pin 253 is removed. After the operation of both stations is completed, the third drive mechanism 261 of the first unlocking component 26 at the first testing and adjustment station 24 is extended to release the workpiece 6. The conveying mechanism 4 removes the tested workpiece 6 and conveys it to the unloading mechanism 5; the first drive mechanism 212 drives the turntable 211 to rotate 180 degrees, so that the workpiece 6, which was originally clamped at the loading station 23, rotates to the first testing and adjustment station 24 and enters the testing process; the first fixing component 22, which was originally at the first testing and adjustment station 24, rotates to the loading station and replaces the next workpiece 6 to be tested. This cycle repeats, with the loading at the material loading station 23 and the testing and adjustment at the first testing and adjustment station 24 operating in parallel in space and overlapping in time, significantly shortening the single-piece testing cycle and greatly improving the overall operating efficiency of the equipment.

[0050] Therefore, the feeding mechanism 2 provided in this application embodiment, through the coordinated cooperation of the dual-station turntable layout, the automatic clamping mechanism composed of the first fixing component 22 and the first unlocking component 26, and the pin-type first anti-rotation component 25, systematically solves the problems of low testing efficiency, cumbersome clamping operation, and easy damage to workpiece 6 in the prior art, and is especially suitable for high-speed, high-precision testing and calibration of modern automotive parts.

[0051] like Figures 9 to 13 As shown, in some embodiments, the testing and adjustment mechanism 3 includes a testing and adjustment module 31 and a mounting base 32. The mounting base 32 is a frame structure used to support and install at least two testing and adjustment modules 31 to perform multiple tests and adjustments on the handle force of the steering column workpiece 6 to ensure that the force value of the final product is qualified. In this embodiment, two testing and adjustment modules 31 are used as an example. One testing and adjustment module 31 is connected to the loading mechanism 2, and the other testing and adjustment module 31 is connected to the unloading mechanism 5.

[0052] Optionally, a lifting mechanism 321 is fixedly mounted on the mounting base 32. The lifting mechanism 321 is preferably an electric cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder, with its output end facing downwards and connected to a connector 322. A horizontally arranged first lifting seat 323 is fixedly connected to the lower end of the connector 322. The testing and adjustment module 31 includes a second base 311, the upper part of which is fixedly connected to the first lifting seat 323. Thus, the lifting mechanism 321 can drive the entire testing and adjustment module 31 to move up and down along the vertical Z-axis via the first lifting seat 323, thereby adjusting the height of the testing and adjustment module 31 relative to the workpiece 6.

[0053] Optionally, the testing and adjustment module 31 also includes a multi-axis drive system arranged on the second base 311, and a testing component 316 and an adjustment component 317 mounted on the moving plate 318. The multi-axis drive system is used to achieve precise displacement of the moving plate 318 in the horizontal plane, thereby completing the accurate docking of the testing component 316 and the adjustment component 317 with the corresponding parts on the workpiece 6.

[0054] Specifically, a fourth drive mechanism 312 is fixedly mounted on the lower part of the second base 311. The fourth drive mechanism 312 can be a linear motion module consisting of a servo motor and a lead screw guide pair. Its output end is connected to a second movable seat 313, thereby driving the second movable seat 313 to reciprocate along a first horizontal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction). A fifth drive mechanism 314 is fixedly mounted on the second movable seat 313. The fifth drive mechanism 314 can also be a linear drive module, and the motion direction of its output end is perpendicular to the motion direction of the fourth drive mechanism 312 (e.g., the X-axis direction). The output end of the fifth drive mechanism 314 is fixedly connected to a first connecting seat 315, which is in turn fixedly connected to a movable plate 318. Thus, the fifth drive mechanism 314 can drive the movable plate 318 to move relative to the second movable seat 313 along a second horizontal direction. Combined with the Z-axis movement of the lifting mechanism 321, the moving plate 318 and the test component 316 and adjustment component 317 mounted on it can be flexibly adjusted in the XYZ three-axis directions in space, realizing automatic alignment with the workpiece 6 without manual intervention, which greatly improves work efficiency and positioning accuracy.

[0055] The test component 316 is used to simulate the operation of a human hand on the handle 61 and to detect mechanical parameters in real time during operation. In some embodiments, the test component 316 includes a test drive mechanism 3161, a first reducer 3162, a torque limiter 3163, a first synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3164, a test shaft 3160, an angle encoder 3165, a torque sensor 3166, an eccentric transmission component 3167, and a shift finger 3168.

[0056] Specifically, a bearing housing 3169 is fixedly mounted on the moving plate 318, and the test shaft 3160 is rotatably connected to the bearing housing 3169 via the bearing, enabling the test shaft 3160 to rotate smoothly. The test drive mechanism 3161 is preferably a servo motor, fixed to the moving plate 318. The output shaft of the test drive mechanism 3161 is connected to the input end of the first reducer 3162, and the output end of the first reducer 3162 is connected to the input end of the torque limiter 3163. The torque limiter 3163 is used to prevent slippage when the transmitted torque exceeds a preset threshold, providing overload protection and preventing damage to the transmission components or workpiece 6 due to accidental jamming. The output end of the torque limiter 3163 is connected to the test shaft 3160 via the first synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3164, transmitting rotational power to the test shaft 3160. The first synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3164 includes a driving pulley, a driven pulley, and a synchronous belt. The driving pulley is fixed on the output shaft of the torque limiter 3163, and the driven pulley is fixed on the test shaft 3160.

[0057] Both the angle encoder 3165 and the torque sensor 3166 are connected to the test shaft 3160. The angle encoder 3165 is used to detect the rotation angle of the test shaft 3160 in real time, and the torque sensor 3166 is used to detect the torque applied to the test shaft 3160 in real time. The data collected by these two sensors provides accurate quantitative basis for subsequent judgment of whether the handle force is qualified.

[0058] The test drive mechanism 3161 drives the shift finger 3168 to rotate via the test shaft 3160 and the eccentric transmission component 3167, allowing the shift finger 3168 to abut against the handle 61 of the workpiece 6 and rotate within a rotational range. The eccentric transmission component 3167 is fixedly connected to the end of the test shaft 3160, and this eccentric transmission component 3167 has an eccentric structure. Figures 10 to 13 As shown, the connecting end of the eccentric transmission component 3167 is located on the axis of the test shaft 3160, so that its rotation center coincides with the axis of the test shaft 3160; while the free end for mounting the shift finger 3168 is offset by a certain distance relative to the axis of the test shaft 3160 in a direction away from the rotating head 3174 of the adjustment assembly 317. When the test shaft 3160 drives the eccentric transmission component 3167 to rotate, the end of the shift finger 3168 rotates with the eccentric transmission component 3167 around the axis of the test shaft 3160, and its motion trajectory sweeps in space to form a circular or arc-shaped rotation area (i.e., the working envelope area of ​​the shift finger 3168). At the same time, the entire working space of the rotating head 3174 of the adjustment assembly 317, including its sleeve end and the feed path along its own axis, is located outside the periphery of this rotation area, and the two are separated from each other in three-dimensional space without any intersection. Based on this structural configuration, the rotation area and the rotating head 3174 spatially avoid each other. Regardless of its angle during the entire rotation test, the finger 3168 will not mechanically collide with the rotating head 3174 or its drive path. This application, through the configuration of the eccentric transmission component 3167, successfully achieves interference-free parallel arrangement of the test component 316 and the adjustment component 317 within a compact test and adjustment module 31. This eliminates the motion interference problem that is easily encountered in traditional integrated solutions from a mechanical structure perspective. It eliminates the need for any additional backing, station switching, or timing avoidance mechanisms, thereby significantly simplifying the equipment structure and improving the cycle time and operational reliability.

[0059] The shift finger 3168 is fixedly connected to the end of the eccentric transmission component 3167, and is configured to be inserted between the rods on both sides of the handle 61 of the workpiece 6. The shift finger 3168 is fork-shaped, with two spaced-apart finger-like portions, the spacing between which matches the thickness of the handle 61 rod. When the shift finger 3168 is inserted, its finger-like portions abut against the rod from both the inner and outer sides, thereby reliably driving the entire handle 61 to rotate around its hinge axis when the eccentric transmission component 3167 rotates. This force application method is closer to the actual working condition of a human hand operating the handle, making the force value obtained in the test more reflective of the real operating feel.

[0060] The adjustment assembly 317 is mounted on the moving plate 318, located beside the test assembly 316, and is used to automatically adjust the locking force of the workpiece 6. The adjustment assembly 317 includes an adjustment drive mechanism 3171, a second reducer 3172, a second synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3173, and a rotating head 3174. The adjustment drive mechanism 3171 can also be a servo motor, with its output end connected to the input end of the second reducer 3172. The output end of the second reducer 3172 is connected to the rotating head 3174 via the second synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3173. The structure of the second synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3173 is similar to that of the first synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3164, including a driving pulley, a driven pulley, and a synchronous belt. The driven pulley is fixedly connected to the shaft of the rotating head 3174. The end of the rotating head 3174 has a sleeve structure, such as an internal hexagonal socket, that matches the adjusting nut 62 of the workpiece 6, for tightening the nut 62. The rotational power of the adjustment drive mechanism 3171 is reduced and increased in torque by the second reducer 3172, and then transmitted to the rotating head 3174 by the second synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3173, driving the rotating head 3174 to rotate, thereby tightening or loosening the nut 62, so as to achieve precise adjustment of the locking force.

[0061] Furthermore, the testing and adjustment module 31 also includes several sensors 7. For example, a position sensor can be installed on the moving plate 318 or the second base 311 to detect the travel limit or real-time position of the moving plate 318; a vision sensor can also be set to visually position the handle 61 and nut 62 of the workpiece 6, further improving the alignment accuracy and intelligence level of the device.

[0062] like Figure 14 As shown, in some embodiments, the conveying mechanism 4 is used to transport the workpiece 6 on the first test and adjustment station 24 of the loading mechanism 2 to the second test and adjustment station 53 of the unloading mechanism 5.

[0063] The conveying mechanism 4 includes a conveying frame 41, a sixth drive mechanism 42, a third moving seat 43, a seventh drive mechanism 44, and a gripper drive mechanism 46. The conveying frame 41 is fixedly installed on the worktable 1. The sixth drive mechanism 42 is fixedly installed on the conveying frame 41. The output end of the sixth drive mechanism 42 is connected to the third moving seat 43, and the sixth drive mechanism 42 is used to drive the third moving seat 43 to move. The seventh drive mechanism 44 is fixedly installed on the third moving seat 43. The output end of the seventh drive mechanism 44 is connected to the moving frame 45, and the seventh drive mechanism 44 is used to drive the moving frame 45 to move. The gripper drive mechanism 46 is fixedly installed on the moving frame 45. The output end of the gripper drive mechanism 46 is connected to a gripper 47, and the gripper drive mechanism 46 is used to drive two oppositely arranged grippers 47 to move closer to each other to clamp the workpiece 6, or to drive two oppositely arranged grippers 47 to move away from each other to release the workpiece 6. Among them, the two grippers 47 are provided with a V-groove 48 on one side opposite to the workpiece 6; there are at least two sets of gripper drive mechanisms 46, and the at least two sets of gripper drive mechanisms 46 respectively drive the grippers 47 to clamp the two ends of the workpiece 6.

[0064] In this embodiment, V-grooves 48 are provided on opposite sides of the two grippers 47 of the conveying mechanism 4. The opening angle, groove depth, and groove surface shape of the V-grooves 48 are all adapted to the cylindrical outer surface of the workpiece 6, so that when the grippers 47 clamp the workpiece 6, the outer peripheral surface of the workpiece 6 forms a stable surface contact or multi-line contact with the two inclined surfaces of the V-grooves 48. Compared with traditional planar grippers, the design of the V-grooves 48 significantly increases the effective contact area and static friction, and also has an automatic centering function, ensuring that the workpiece can still be firmly locked under high-speed and high-dynamic conditions, greatly improving the reliability of gripping. Furthermore, by simultaneously clamping both ends of the workpiece 6 through at least two sets of gripper drive mechanisms 46, the workpiece 6 is changed from being suspended at a single point to being simply supported and fixed at both ends, completely eliminating the tilting, shaking, and circumferential rotation of the workpiece 6 during handling. The positioning accuracy after placement fully meets the high standards of precision assembly processes. In addition, the sixth drive mechanism 42 and the seventh drive mechanism 44 enable multi-dimensional free adjustment of the gripper 47 in the horizontal and vertical directions, which can flexibly adapt to the complex spatial positional relationships between different workstations, greatly enhancing the versatility of the device and the flexibility of the production line.

[0065] like Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, in some embodiments, the unloading mechanism 5 includes a transfer component 51, a second fixing component 55, a lifting component 52, and a second anti-rotation component 56. The transfer component 51 includes a base 511 fixedly installed on the workbench 1, an eighth drive mechanism 512 fixedly installed on the base 511, and a connecting plate 513 connected to the output end of the eighth drive mechanism 512. A second testing and adjustment station 53 and an unloading station 54 are respectively provided on both sides of the base 511. Both the second testing and adjustment station 53 and the unloading station 54 are provided with a second unlocking component 57. The second unlocking component 57 has the same structure as the first unlocking component 26. The second fixing component 55 has the same structure as the first fixing component 22 and is used to carry and automatically clamp the workpiece 6 to ensure the stability of the workpiece 6 during testing and transfer. The second fixing component 55 is slidably connected to the base 511 and fixedly connected to the connecting plate 513. The eighth drive mechanism 512 drives the second fixing component 55 to reciprocate between the second test and adjustment station 53 and the unloading station 54 through the connecting plate 513. The lifting component 52 is installed below the base 511 and includes the ninth drive mechanism 521 and the second lifting seat 522 connected to the output end of the ninth drive mechanism 521. The ninth drive mechanism 521 is used to drive the second lifting seat 522 to lift. The second anti-rotation component 56 has the same structure as the first anti-rotation component 25. The second anti-rotation component 56 is installed on the second lifting seat 522. The base 511 has a through hole corresponding to the second test and adjustment station 53 for the second anti-rotation component 56 to pass through. The pin 253 of the second anti-rotation component 56 is used to cooperate with the screw 63 of the workpiece 6 fixed in the second fixing component 55 located in the second test and adjustment station 53. The lifting assembly 52 also includes a mounting bracket 523 fixedly installed on the worktable 1, and the ninth drive mechanism 521 is fixedly connected to the mounting bracket 523.

[0066] In this embodiment, the unloading mechanism 5 is mainly used to quickly lock and adjust the workpiece 6, which requires adjustment of the handle locking force, after the steering column workpiece 6 has completed the handle force test, and automatically transport the qualified workpiece from the testing station to the unloading station, thereby achieving highly efficient automated product unloading. The base 511 serves as the supporting foundation of the device, and its two sides along the length direction are defined as the second testing and adjustment station 53 and the unloading station 54, respectively. The eighth drive mechanism 512 preferably adopts a drive component that can provide linear reciprocating power, such as a cylinder, electric cylinder, or linear motor. In order to accurately detect the position status of the workpiece 6, several sensors 7 can also be provided on the side of the base 511 to detect whether the second fixing component 55 has reached the predetermined station and whether the workpiece 6 is present, providing control basis for the transfer, clamping, and unloading actions, thereby improving the automation level and operational reliability of the equipment.

[0067] At the second testing and adjustment station 53, when the handle force of workpiece 6 needs to be calibrated, workpiece 6 is first clamped and positioned by the second fixing component 55. Then, the ninth drive mechanism 521 drives the second lifting seat 522 to rise to the working height, aligning the axis of the pin 253 of the second anti-rotation component 56 with the axis of the screw 63. Next, the second drive mechanism 251 of the second anti-rotation component 56 drives the first moving seat 254 forward, causing the pin 253 to insert into the polygonal inner hole at the end of the screw 63. The shape-locking between the polygons reliably locks the rotational freedom of the screw 63. At this time, another testing and adjustment module 31 of the testing and adjustment mechanism 3 can automatically tighten the nut 62 with a wrench. Because the screw 63 is fixed by the pin 253, it will not rotate, thus allowing for independent and smooth changes in the tightening torque of the handle 61. The adjustment process is efficient and convenient, fundamentally eliminating problems such as head scratches and edge wear caused by using a wrench to hold the screw in the traditional way, and completely avoiding safety hazards such as tool slippage causing injury or damage to the workpiece. After adjustment, the second drive mechanism 251 reverses the drive pin 253 to completely disengage from the screw 63, and the ninth drive mechanism 521 drives the second lifting seat 522 to descend and reset, making room for the transfer of workpiece 6.

[0068] In this application, the polygonal mating structure at the ends of the pin 253 and screw 63 can be designed into shapes such as triangles, quadrilaterals, hexagons, or splines according to actual torque requirements, ensuring sufficient load-bearing capacity and centering guidance. In addition to using pneumatic cylinders, each drive mechanism can be replaced with an electric cylinder, hydraulic cylinder, or servo linear module according to accuracy and load requirements, all of which fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0069] Furthermore, in some embodiments, this application also provides a method for testing and adjusting steering column handle force, using the aforementioned steering column handle force testing and adjustment device, the method comprising the following steps: Step 1, Loading workpiece 6: The workpiece 6 to be tested is transported to the loading station 23 and fixed. The loading station 23 and the first testing and adjustment station 24 rotate alternately, so that the workpiece 6 to be tested is transferred from the loading station 23 to the first testing and adjustment station 24. At this time, the loading station 23 is unloaded. Continue to transport the second workpiece 6 to be tested to the loading station 23 and fix it. Step 2: Test and adjust the handle force of workpiece 6 in the first test and adjustment station 24: The lifting mechanism 321, the fourth drive mechanism 312, and the fifth drive mechanism 314 of one of the test and adjustment modules 31 corresponding to the first test and adjustment station 24 work together to drive the moving plate 318 to move along the XYZ three-axis direction, so that the finger 3168 of the test component 316 is accurately aligned with the rods on both sides of the handle 61 of workpiece 6 in the first test and adjustment station 24, and at the same time, the rotating head 3174 of the adjustment component 317 is aligned with the nut 62 of workpiece 6; then, the fifth drive mechanism 314 moves slightly, inserts the finger-shaped part of the finger 3168 between the rods on both sides of the handle 61, and puts the rotating head 3174 on the nut 62 to complete the docking; at the same time, the second drive mechanism 251 of the first anti-rotation component 25 of the feeding mechanism 2 is activated, inserts the pin 253 into the end of the screw 63 of the workpiece 6 and locks it; Next, the test component 316 of the test and adjustment module 31 first tests the handle force of the workpiece 6. The test drive mechanism 3161 is started, and the test shaft 3160 is driven to rotate through the first reducer 3162, torque limiter 3163 and first synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3164. The test shaft 3160 drives the eccentric transmission component 3167 and the shift finger 3168 to rotate. The shift finger 3168 abuts against the rod of the handle 61 and pushes the handle 61 to rotate around its hinge axis to simulate the operation of a human hand moving the handle 61. During this process, the angle encoder 3165 detects the rotation angle of the test shaft 3160 in real time, and the torque sensor 3166 detects the torque of the test shaft 3160 in real time. The above data are collected and the magnitude of the handle force is calculated. The result is compared with the qualified threshold to determine whether the test is qualified. If the first test result is qualified, all components of the test and adjustment module 31 and the first anti-rotation component 25 of the loading mechanism 2 are reset, and the third drive mechanism 261 of the first unlocking component 26 at the first test and adjustment station 24 is controlled to extend to release the workpiece 6. The conveying mechanism 4 removes the tested workpiece 6 and conveys it to the unloaded second fixing component 55 in the second test and adjustment station 53 of the unloading mechanism 5. The transfer component 51 of the unloading mechanism 5 continues to drive the second fixing component 55 and the workpiece 6 on it to the unloading station 54 for unloading. The second unlocking component 57 of station 54 unlocks the workpiece 6 located in the second fixing component 55 of the unloading station 54, so that the workpiece 6 that has passed the test can be removed and transported to the product qualification area; the loading station 23 and the first testing and adjustment station 24 rotate alternately, so that the second workpiece 6 that was originally clamped in the loading station 23 rotates to the first testing and adjustment station 24 and enters the testing process; the first fixing component 22 that was originally in the first testing and adjustment station 24 rotates to the loading station 23 and replaces the next workpiece 6 to be tested; If the first test fails, it will automatically switch to the adjustment mode. The adjustment drive mechanism 3171 of the adjustment component 317 of the test and adjustment module 31 is started. The rotating head 3174 is driven to rotate through the second reducer 3172 and the second synchronous belt transmission mechanism 3173 to tighten the nut 62 of the workpiece 6 to increase or decrease the locking force, thereby adjusting the handle force of the workpiece 6 for the first time. After the first adjustment is completed, the test component 316 of the test and adjustment module 31 continues to test the handle force of the workpiece 6 for the second time; the test process is the same as the first test; if the second test is qualified, the workpiece 6 is transferred to the unloading station 54 for product unloading; if the second test is still unqualified, the adjustment component 317 is restarted to adjust the handle force of the workpiece 6 for the second time. After the second adjustment is completed, the conveying mechanism 4 moves the workpiece 6 to the unloaded second fixing component 55 in the second test and adjustment station 53, and keeps the second fixing component 55 fixed. Step 3: Test and adjust the handle force of workpiece 6 in the second test and adjustment station 53: Similar to the above test and adjustment method, another test and adjustment module 31 corresponding to the second test and adjustment station 53 precisely aligns the finger 3168 of its test component 316 with the rods on both sides of the handle 61 of workpiece 6 in the second test and adjustment station 53, and at the same time aligns the rotating head 3174 of the adjustment component 317 with the nut 62 of workpiece 6; then, the fifth drive mechanism 314 makes a slight movement, inserts the finger-shaped part of the finger 3168 between the rods on both sides of the handle 61, and puts the rotating head 3174 on the nut 62 to complete the docking; at the same time, the lifting component 52 of the unloading mechanism 5 is activated, causing the second drive mechanism 251 of the second anti-rotation component 56 of the unloading mechanism 5 to act, inserting the pin 253 into the end of the screw 63 of workpiece 6 and locking it; The workpiece 6, after two adjustments, is subjected to a third test by another test and adjustment module 31 corresponding to the second test and adjustment station 53. If the third test is qualified, the components of the test and adjustment module 31, the lifting component 52 of the unloading mechanism 5, and the second anti-rotation component 56 are reset, and the transfer component 51 transfers the workpiece 6 to the unloading station 54 for product unloading. If the third test is still unqualified, the adjustment component 317 of the test and adjustment module 31 adjusts the handle force of the workpiece 6 for the third time. After the third adjustment is completed, another testing and adjustment module 31, which corresponds to the second testing and adjustment station 53, immediately conducts a fourth test on the workpiece 6. If the fourth test is qualified, the workpiece 6 is transferred to the unloading station 54 for product unloading. If the fourth test is still unqualified, the workpiece 6 is transferred to the unloading station 54 and marked as a non-conforming product. Finally, the non-conforming workpiece 6 is transferred to the non-conforming product area to await further manual re-inspection or scrapping.

[0070] Therefore, through the assembly line-style collaborative operation of the two testing and adjustment modules 31, this application can perform up to four rounds of testing and three rounds of automatic adjustment on the workpiece 6, thereby ensuring that the locking force of each product can be calibrated to within the design tolerance range. Throughout the process, the workpiece 6 does not require manual handling or repeated clamping between testing and adjustment. The real-time force feedback provided by the angle encoder 3165 and the torque sensor 3166 realizes closed-loop automated calibration, significantly improving production efficiency, calibration accuracy, and the first-pass yield of products. At the same time, the eccentric design of the eccentric transmission component 3167 ensures smooth and interference-free testing and adjustment actions under the integrated layout, while the torque limiter 3163 provides reliable protection for the transmission chain. The equipment has a compact structure, a high degree of automation, and outstanding practical value.

[0071] In summary, the steering column handle force testing and adjustment equipment provided in this application systematically integrates the alternating rotating feeding mechanism 2, the dual testing and adjustment module 31 with integrated eccentric avoidance structure, the automatic conveying mechanism 4, and the reciprocating unloading mechanism 5 onto the same workbench 1, thus constructing a fully automated operation system that integrates dual-station parallel feeding, primary testing and adjustment, automatic transfer, secondary testing and adjustment, and automatic unloading. On the one hand, through the rotary table 211 and the rotary loading station 23 and the first testing and adjustment station 24 in a rotary dual-station layout, and the movable setting of the second testing and adjustment station 53 and the unloading station 54 in the unloading mechanism 5, the loading and processing processes are highly overlapped in time and space, significantly shortening the single-piece operation cycle and improving the efficiency of batch production; on the other hand, in each testing and adjustment module 31, an eccentrically set eccentric transmission component 3167 is used, so that the arc swing trajectory of the shift finger 3168 and the working area of ​​the rotating head 3174 of the adjustment component 317 are aligned in structural space. The natural offset design fundamentally avoids motion interference between the two components in a confined space, achieving tight coupling and highly reliable integration of testing and adjustment functions without complex structural additions. Simultaneously, based on real-time force feedback from the angle encoder 3165 and torque sensor 3166 in the testing component 316, and combined with a multi-station assembly line-style "test-adjustment-retest" closed-loop control strategy, automated and precise calibration of the handle force is achieved. This completely replaces the traditional manual repetitive clamping and subjective experience-based adjustment mode, significantly improving product yield, force consistency, and automation production level. Therefore, the equipment in this application possesses outstanding advantages such as compact structure, high cycle time, precise control, and reliable operation, providing an innovative and practical solution for the high-quality, large-scale production of automotive steering columns.

[0072] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force, characterized in that, include: Workbench (1); The feeding mechanism (2) is installed on the workbench (1) and includes a feeding station (23) and a first testing and adjustment station (24) that can rotate alternately. The workpiece (6) can be fed to the feeding station (23) and transferred to the first testing and adjustment station (24). The unloading mechanism (5) is installed on the workbench (1) and includes a second testing and adjustment station (53) and an unloading station (54). The workpiece (6) can move between the second testing and adjustment station (53) and the unloading station (54) and unload the product from the unloading station (54). A conveying mechanism (4) is installed on the workbench (1) for transferring the workpiece (6) from the first testing and adjustment station (24) to the second testing and adjustment station (53). The testing and adjustment mechanism (3), installed on the workbench (1), includes two testing and adjustment modules (31), one of which corresponds to the first testing and adjustment station (24) and is used to test and / or adjust the handle force of the workpiece (6) in the first testing and adjustment station (24); the other testing and adjustment module (31) corresponds to the second testing and adjustment station (53) and is used to test and / or adjust the handle force of the workpiece (6) in the second testing and adjustment station (53). The testing and adjustment module (31) includes a testing component (316) and an adjustment component (317). The testing component (316) includes a testing drive mechanism (3161), a testing shaft (3160) connected to the testing drive mechanism (3161), an angle encoder (3165), a torque sensor (3166), and an eccentric transmission component (3167) connected to the testing shaft (3160), and a shift finger (3168) connected to the eccentric transmission component (3167). The testing drive mechanism (3161) is used to control the test shaft (3160) and the adjustment component (3167) via the testing drive mechanism (3161) and the test shaft (3160). An eccentric transmission component (3167) drives the shift finger (3168) to rotate within a rotational area against the handle (61) of the workpiece (6) to test the handle force of the workpiece (6); the adjustment component (317) includes an adjustment drive mechanism (3171) and a rotating head (3174) connected to the adjustment drive mechanism (3171). The adjustment drive mechanism (3171) is used to drive the rotating head (3174) to tighten the nut (62) of the workpiece (6) to adjust the handle force of the workpiece (6); the rotational area and the rotating head (3174) are spatially separated.

2. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism (2) further includes: The rotating assembly (21) includes a first drive mechanism (212) mounted on the worktable (1), a turntable (211) driven and connected to the first drive mechanism (212), and a fixed disk (213) fixedly connected to the first drive mechanism (212). The first drive mechanism (212) is used to drive the turntable (211) to rotate. The loading station (23) and the first testing and adjustment station (24) are respectively located on both sides of the turntable (211), each including a first fixing component (22) fixedly installed on the turntable (211) for fixing the workpiece (6), and a first unlocking component (26) fixedly installed on the workbench (1) for unlocking the workpiece (6); the first fixing component (22) includes a first base (221) and clamps (222) slidably connected to the first base (221) and arranged opposite to each other. The first unlocking assembly (26) includes a fixed block (223) fixedly installed on the first base (221) and located on one side of the clamping block (222), and a spring (224) abutting between the clamping block (222) and the fixed block (223); the first unlocking assembly (26) includes a third driving mechanism (261) and a trapezoidal block (262) connected to the output end of the third driving mechanism (261), and the clamping block (222) is connected to a roller (227) that cooperates with the inclined surface of the trapezoidal block (262); The third drive mechanism (261) is used to drive the trapezoidal block (262) away from the roller (227), and the two opposing clamping blocks (222) move closer to each other under the drive of the spring (224) to clamp the workpiece (6), or the third drive mechanism (261) is used to drive the inclined surface of the trapezoidal block (262) to abut against the roller (227), so that the two clamping blocks (222) overcome the elastic force of the spring (224) and move away from each other to release the workpiece (6).

3. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 2, characterized in that, A first anti-rotation component (25) is fixedly installed on the fixed plate (213) corresponding to the first test and adjustment station (24). The first anti-rotation component (25) includes a second drive mechanism (251), a first movable seat (254) driven by the second drive mechanism (251), a pin seat (252) fixedly connected to the first movable seat (254), and a pin (253) fixedly installed in the pin seat (252). The workpiece (6) is connected to a handle (61) by a nut (62) and a screw (63). The second drive mechanism (251) is used to drive the pin (253) to move through the first movable seat (254) and the pin seat (252) so that the pin (253) is inserted into the end of the screw (63) of the workpiece (6) fixed in the first fixed component (22) of the first test and adjustment station (24), or the pin (253) is disengaged from the screw (63).

4. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first base (221) is fixedly mounted with a first guide rail (228), and two clamping blocks (222) are slidably connected to the first guide rail (228). One of the clamping blocks (222) is fixedly connected with a positioning pin (225), and the other clamping block (222) is provided with a pin hole (226) that cooperates with the positioning pin (225). The positioning pin (225) is configured to be inserted into the positioning hole (65) on the positioning ear plate (64) of the workpiece (6).

5. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 3, characterized in that, A support frame (229) for supporting the workpiece (6) is fixedly installed on the first base (221). The inner circumference of the end of the screw (63) is set as a polygonal structure, and the outer circumference of the pin (253) is set as a polygonal structure that matches the inner circumference of the end of the screw (63). Several support seats (214) installed on the worktable (1) are provided below the turntable (211). The support seats (214) and the turntable (211) are connected by ball bearings.

6. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test assembly (316) further includes a first reducer (3162) connected to the output end of the test drive mechanism (3161), a torque limiter (3163) connected to the output end of the first reducer (3162), a first synchronous belt transmission mechanism (3164) connected to the output end of the torque limiter (3163), and a bearing housing (3169). The test shaft (3160) is connected to the output end of the first synchronous belt transmission mechanism (3164) and rotatably connected in the bearing housing (3169). The test drive mechanism (3161) drives the eccentric transmission member (3167) to rotate through the test shaft (3160). The eccentric transmission member (3167) is fixedly connected to the end of the test shaft (3160) and is eccentrically arranged to avoid the rotating head (3174). The adjustment assembly (317) further includes a second reducer (3172) connected to the output end of the adjustment drive mechanism (3171) and a second synchronous belt transmission mechanism (3173) connected to the output end of the second reducer (3172). The rotating head (3174) is connected to the output end of the second synchronous belt transmission mechanism (3173).

7. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 1, characterized in that, The testing and adjustment mechanism (3) further includes a mounting base (32), on which two testing and adjustment modules (31) are mounted. A lifting mechanism (321) is fixedly mounted on the mounting base (32). A connector (322) is connected to the output end of the lifting mechanism (321). A first lifting seat (323) is fixedly connected to the connector (322). The testing and adjustment module (31) further includes a second base (311). The first lifting seat (323) is fixedly connected to the second base (311). The lifting mechanism (321) is used to drive the testing and adjustment module (31) to lift. A fourth driving mechanism is fixedly mounted on the second base (311). (312), the output end of the fourth drive mechanism (312) is connected to the second moving seat (313), the fourth drive mechanism (312) is used to drive the second moving seat (313) to move; the second moving seat (313) is fixedly mounted with the fifth drive mechanism (314), the output end of the fifth drive mechanism (314) is fixedly connected to the first connecting seat (315), the first connecting seat (315) is fixedly connected to the moving plate (318), the fifth drive mechanism (314) is used to drive the moving plate (318) to move through the first connecting seat (315); the test component (316) and the adjustment component (317) are mounted on the moving plate (318).

8. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shift finger (3168) is fixedly connected to the end of the eccentric transmission member (3167) and is configured to be inserted into the rods on both sides of the handle (61) of the workpiece (6).

9. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism (4) includes: The conveyor frame (41) is fixedly installed on the workbench (1); The sixth drive mechanism (42) is fixedly installed on the conveyor frame (41). The output end of the sixth drive mechanism (42) is connected to the third moving seat (43). The sixth drive mechanism (42) is used to drive the third moving seat (43) to move. The seventh drive mechanism (44) is fixedly installed on the third movable base (43). The output end of the seventh drive mechanism (44) is connected to the movable frame (45). The seventh drive mechanism (44) is used to drive the movable frame (45) to move. A gripper drive mechanism (46) is fixedly installed on the movable frame (45). The output end of the gripper drive mechanism (46) is connected to a gripper (47). The gripper drive mechanism (46) is used to drive two relatively arranged grippers (47) to move closer to each other to clamp the workpiece (6), or to drive two relatively arranged grippers (47) to move away from each other to release the workpiece (6). Among them, the two grippers (47) are provided with a V-groove (48) on one side opposite to the workpiece (6) to cooperate with the outer periphery; there are at least two sets of gripper driving mechanisms (46), and the at least two sets of gripper driving mechanisms (46) respectively drive the grippers (47) to clamp the two ends of the workpiece (6).

10. The device for testing and adjusting steering column handle force according to claim 3, characterized in that, The feeding mechanism (5) includes: The transfer assembly (51) includes a base (511) fixedly installed on the workbench (1), an eighth drive mechanism (512) fixedly installed on the base (511), and a connecting plate (513) connected to the output end of the eighth drive mechanism (512). The second test and adjustment station (53) and the unloading station (54) are respectively located on both sides of the base (511). The second test and adjustment station (53) and the unloading station (54) are both provided with a second unlocking assembly (57). The second unlocking assembly (57) has the same structure as the first unlocking assembly (26). The second fixing component (55) has the same structure as the first fixing component (22), is slidably connected to the base (511) and fixedly connected to the connecting plate (513), and the eighth driving mechanism (512) drives the second fixing component (55) to reciprocate between the second testing and adjustment station (53) and the unloading station (54) through the connecting plate (513); The lifting assembly (52) is installed below the base (511) and includes a ninth drive mechanism (521) and a second lifting seat (522) connected to the output end of the ninth drive mechanism (521). The ninth drive mechanism (521) is used to drive the second lifting seat (522) to lift. The second anti-rotation component (56) has the same structure as the first anti-rotation component (25). The second anti-rotation component (56) is installed on the second lifting seat (522). The base (511) has a through hole corresponding to the second test and adjustment station (53) for the second anti-rotation component (56) to pass through. The pin (253) of the second anti-rotation component (56) is used to cooperate with the screw (63) of the workpiece (6) fixed in the second fixing component (55) located in the second test and adjustment station (53).

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