Locking force mechanism for improving retaining force of steering column

Abstract

The utility model is suitable for the technical field of automobiles, and provides a locking force mechanism for improving the retaining force of a steering column, which comprises an upper column tube and a locking structure, the mounting bracket is arranged at the lower part of the upper column pipe; preformed holes are formed in the opposite sides of the mounting brackets; the connecting shaft penetrates through the two preformed holes; an anti-blocking head is arranged at the end of one side of the connecting shaft; an external thread matched with the locking structure is arranged at the end of the other side of the locking structure; driving safety and using convenience are remarkably improved, friction force between the device and the support is enhanced through extrusion acting force between the two locking blocks, slippage caused by external thrust is effectively prevented, stability of a steering column in the running process is guaranteed, and when the steering column needs to be adjusted, the steering column is not required to be adjusted. A driver can easily unlock by reversely rotating the handle, and meanwhile, the locking block can be quickly reset through the automatic reset function of the return spring, so that the operation process is simplified, and the use efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model belongs to the technical field of automobiles, and particularly relates to a locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column. Background Art

[0002] In the complex environment of car driving, the stability and retention of the steering column are key factors to ensure that the driver can control the direction safely and accurately; the steering column not only bears the steering action of the steering wheel, but also bears the effects of various forces such as road surface, wind resistance, and driver operation; therefore, the locking mechanism of the steering column must be able to provide sufficient retention force to prevent accidental rotation during driving;

[0003] However, traditional steering column locking mechanisms have obvious deficiencies in holding force control; these mechanisms often rely on simple mechanical locking structures, such as bolts, nuts, etc., to achieve locking by applying a certain preload; but when the external thrust reaches a certain level, this preload often cannot provide sufficient holding force, causing the steering column to slip; especially when encountering complex working conditions such as bumpy roads, emergency braking, and rapid steering, this slip phenomenon will become more serious, seriously affecting driving stability and safety. Utility Model Content

[0004] The utility model provides a locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column, aiming to solve the problem that a traditional steering column locking mechanism has deficiencies in holding force control and relies on simple mechanical structures such as bolts and nuts, whose pre-tightening force is difficult to resist large external thrusts, and easily causes the steering column to slip, especially under complex road conditions. Such slippage will seriously affect driving stability and safety.

[0005] The utility model is realized as follows: a locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column comprises an upper column tube and a locking structure; a mounting bracket arranged at the lower part of the upper column tube; two opposite sides of the mounting bracket are provided with reserved holes; a connecting shaft passing through two of the reserved holes; one end of the connecting shaft is provided with an anti-blocking head; the other end is provided with an external thread matched with the locking structure;

[0006] The locking structure comprises: a first cam locking block, the first cam locking block is arranged on a side of the mounting bracket away from the connecting shaft; a handle is arranged on the side of the first cam locking block away from the mounting bracket; a second cam locking block is arranged on the side of the handle opposite to the first cam locking block; and a connecting piece arranged between the first cam locking block and the second cam locking block;

[0007] The connecting shaft passes through the first cam locking block and the second cam locking block, and an adjusting nut is threadedly matched at one end through which the connecting shaft passes.

[0008] Preferably, the connecting member comprises: a connecting block arranged on an outer side wall of the first cam locking block;

[0009] A connecting slot is provided on a side of the second cam locking block opposite to the first cam locking block, and the first cam locking block and the second cam locking block are engaged with each other through the connecting slot.

[0010] Preferably, a return spring is connected to the side of the first cam locking block opposite to the mounting bracket, and a damper is arranged inside the return spring.

[0011] Preferably, the outer surface of the locking structure is provided with a polyurethane coating.

[0012] Preferably, the handle is provided with anti-slip textures.

[0013] Preferably, a force sensor is provided on the first cam locking block.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the embodiments of the present application have the following beneficial effects:

[0015] First, this device increases the contact friction between the bracket surface through the mutual squeezing force between the two locking blocks. This enhanced friction effectively avoids the phenomenon of premature slippage of the product, that is, insufficient holding force, when the external thrust reaches a certain size. This design significantly enhances the holding force of the steering column and can prevent the steering column from accidentally rotating due to vibration or other factors during driving. Therefore, it ensures that the driver can stably control the direction during driving, thereby improving driving safety.

[0016] Second: when the steering column needs to be unlocked to adjust its angle or position, the driver only needs to rotate the handle in the opposite direction. This operation causes the first cam locking block to rotate in the opposite direction along the axial direction of the connecting shaft until the connecting block is completely disengaged from the connecting slot of the second cam locking block, thereby easily releasing the connection between the two. At the same time, the return spring can release the previously compressed energy to help the first cam locking block return to its initial position quickly and smoothly. This automatic reset function not only simplifies the unlocking process, but also makes the entire operation more convenient and efficient, significantly improving the driver's experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 It is an exploded view of the utility model;

[0018] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the utility model;

[0019] Figure 3 It is a front structural schematic diagram of the utility model;

[0020] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first cam locking block of the utility model;

[0021] In the figure: 1. upper column tube; 2. mounting bracket; 3. reserved hole; 4. external thread; 5. first cam locking block; 6. force sensor; 7. handle; 8. second cam locking block; 9. adjusting nut; 10. connecting block; 11. connecting slot; 12. return spring; 13. connecting shaft; 14. anti-blocking head. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by technicians in the technical field of this application; the terms used in the specification of the application herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. The terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of this application or the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order.

[0023] Reference to "embodiments" herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of the phrase in various locations in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It is explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0024] The utility model embodiment provides a locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of the steering column, such as Figure 1-4 As shown, it includes an upper column tube 1 and a locking structure; a mounting bracket 2 arranged at the lower position of the upper column tube 1; a reserved hole 3 is opened on the opposite side of the mounting bracket 2; a connecting shaft 13 passing through the two reserved holes 3; wherein, one end of the connecting shaft 13 is provided with an anti-blocking head 14; the other end is provided with an external thread 4 matching the locking structure; the locking structure includes: a first cam locking block 5, the first cam locking block 5 is arranged on the side of the mounting bracket 2 away from the connecting shaft 13; a handle 7 is provided on the side of the first cam locking block 5 away from the mounting bracket 2; a second cam locking block 8 is provided on the side of the handle 7 opposite to the first cam locking block 5; a connecting piece is provided between the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8; the connecting shaft 13 passes through the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8, and an adjusting nut 9 is threadedly matched at the end through which it passes.

[0025] It should be noted that, since the traditional steering column locking mechanism has deficiencies in holding force control and relies on simple mechanical structures such as bolts and nuts, its pre-tightening force is difficult to resist large external thrust, which can easily cause the steering column to slip, especially under complex road conditions. This slip will seriously affect driving stability and safety. The locking structure of the present device significantly improves driving safety and ease of use. Through the squeezing force between the two locking blocks, the device enhances the friction with the bracket, effectively preventing slippage caused by external thrust, ensuring the stability of the steering column during driving. When the steering column needs to be adjusted, the driver can easily unlock it by rotating the handle 7 in the opposite direction. At the same time, the automatic reset function of the return spring 12 quickly returns the locking block to its position, simplifying the operation process and improving the efficiency of use.

[0026] Specifically, in this embodiment, the scheme mainly includes an upper column tube 1 and a locking structure; the upper column tube 1 is the main part of the steering column, bearing and transmitting the steering torque, the locking structure includes a first cam locking block 5, a second cam locking block 8, a connecting piece and an adjusting nut 9, which together constitute a locking mechanism for the steering column, a mounting bracket 2 is fixed to the lower part of the upper column tube 1, and provides a mounting basis for the locking structure, a connecting shaft 13 passes through the reserved hole 3 of the mounting bracket 2, and is used to connect the various components of the locking structure, and provides adjustment and locking functions at the same time, when the steering column needs to be locked, the first cam locking block 5 can be rotated axially along the connecting shaft 13 by rotating the handle 7;

[0027] During the rotation of the first cam locking block 5, the second cam locking block 8 is caused to rotate axially along the connecting shaft 13 through the interaction between the connecting piece and the second cam locking block 8. When the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8 are rotated to a suitable position, the connecting shaft 13 is fixed in place by adjusting the nut 9, thereby realizing the locking of the steering column. Due to the arrangement of the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8, a mutual squeezing force is generated between the two in the locked state, thereby enhancing the holding force of the steering column.

[0028] In addition, by adjusting the tightening degree of the nut 9, the locking force can be further adjusted to meet different driving requirements; when the steering column needs to be unlocked, it is only necessary to rotate the handle 7 in the opposite direction to make the first cam locking block 5 rotate in the opposite direction along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 13; at the same time, the interaction between the connecting member and the second cam locking block 8 is also reversed, and finally the second cam locking block 8 is also rotated in the opposite direction along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 13;

[0029] When the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8 are rotated to the unlocking position, the angle or position of the steering column can be easily adjusted.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1-4As shown, the connecting member includes: a connecting block 10 arranged on the outer side wall of the first cam locking block 5; a connecting slot 11 is arranged on the side of the second cam locking block 8 opposite to the first cam locking block 5, and the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8 are engaged with each other through the connecting block 10 and the connecting slot 11.

[0031] In this embodiment, when the driver rotates the handle 7 to lock the steering column, the first cam locking block 5 will rotate axially along the connecting shaft 13; since the connecting block 10 is arranged on the outer side wall of the first cam locking block 5, it will enter the connecting card slot 11 of the second cam locking block 8 as the first cam locking block 5 rotates; when the first cam locking block 5 rotates to a suitable position, the connecting card block 10 is fully engaged with the connecting card slot 11, thereby realizing a firm connection between the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8;

[0032] In this snap-fit ​​state, a mutual squeezing force is generated between the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8, which significantly enhances the holding force of the steering column and prevents it from accidentally rotating during driving;

[0033] When it is necessary to unlock the steering column to adjust its angle or position, the driver only needs to rotate the handle 7 in the opposite direction to make the first cam locking block 5 rotate in the opposite direction along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 13; as the first cam locking block 5 rotates, the connecting block 10 will be disengaged from the connecting slot 11 of the second cam locking block 8, thereby releasing the connection between the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8; at this time, the driver can easily adjust the angle or position of the steering column.

[0034] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1-3 As shown, a return spring 12 is connected to the side of the first cam locking block 5 opposite to the mounting bracket 2 , and a damper is arranged inside the return spring 12 .

[0035] In this embodiment, when the driver rotates the handle 7 to lock the steering column, the first cam locking block 5 rotates to the locked position, and the return spring 12 is compressed. When the steering column needs to be unlocked, the driver rotates the handle 7 in the opposite direction, and the return spring 12 releases the previously compressed energy to help the first cam locking block 5 return to the initial position. In this way, the return spring 12 plays the role of automatic reset, making the unlocking operation easier.

[0036] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1-4 As shown, the outer surface of the locking structure is provided with a polyurethane coating.

[0037] In this embodiment, by providing a polyurethane coating on the outer surface of the locking structure, not only the durability and reliability of the locking structure can be improved, but also the aesthetics and texture of the entire steering column can be improved.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1 As shown, the handle 7 is provided with anti-slip textures.

[0039] In this embodiment, providing anti-slip texture on the handle 7 helps to increase the friction coefficient of the handle 7 .

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 As shown, a force sensor 6 is provided on the first cam locking block 5 .

[0041] In this embodiment, by setting a force sensor 6 (FSH00011) on the first cam locking block 5, the force condition of the locking block during the locking or unlocking process can be monitored and measured in real time, which is very important for ensuring the safety and reliability of the locking mechanism. If the force applied to the locking block exceeds the preset safety range, the control system can take immediate measures to avoid damage or failure.

[0042] Working principle: In the locking mechanism of the steering column, the upper column tube 1 is the main part, responsible for bearing and transmitting the steering torque; the locking structure includes a first cam locking block 5, a second cam locking block 8, a connecting piece, an adjusting nut 9 and a mounting bracket 2; the mounting bracket 2 is fixed to the lower part of the upper column tube 1 to provide a stable mounting foundation for the locking structure; the connecting shaft 13 runs through the reserved hole 3 of the mounting bracket 2, which not only connects the various components of the locking structure, but also provides the functions of adjustment and locking;

[0043] When the driver needs to lock the steering column, the first cam locking block 5 is rotated axially along the connecting shaft 13 by rotating the handle 7; during the rotation process, the first cam locking block 5 interacts with the second cam locking block 8 through the connecting piece, so that the second cam locking block 8 is also rotated axially along the connecting shaft 13;

[0044] When the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8 are rotated to a suitable position, the connecting block 10 arranged on the outer side wall of the first cam locking block 5 will enter the connecting groove 11 of the second cam locking block 8, so as to realize a firm clamping fit between the two. In this clamping fit state, a mutual squeezing force will be generated between the first cam locking block 5 and the second cam locking block 8, which significantly enhances the holding force of the steering column and prevents the steering column from rotating accidentally during driving.

[0045] At this time, by adjusting the tightening degree of the nut 9, the locking force can be further adjusted to meet different driving requirements; when the adjustment nut 9 is tightened, the connecting shaft 13 will be fixed in place, thereby achieving the locking of the steering column;

[0046] In addition, in order to increase the durability and reliability of the locking structure, while improving the aesthetics and texture, a polyurethane coating is provided on the outer surface of the locking structure;

[0047] In order to monitor and measure the force applied to the locking block in the process of locking or unlocking in real time and ensure the safety and reliability of the locking mechanism, a force sensor 6 is provided on the first cam locking block 5; if the force applied to the locking block exceeds a preset safety range, the control system can take immediate measures to avoid damage or failure.

[0048] When it is necessary to unlock the steering column to adjust its angle or position, the driver only needs to rotate the handle 7 in the opposite direction to make the first cam locking block 5 rotate in the opposite direction along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 13; as the first cam locking block 5 rotates, the connecting block 10 will disengage from the connecting slot 11 of the second cam locking block 8, thereby releasing the connection between the two; at the same time, the return spring 12 will release the previously compressed energy to help the first cam locking block 5 return to the initial position, making the unlocking operation easier; at this time, the driver can easily adjust the angle or position of the steering column.

[0049] It should be noted that, for the above-mentioned embodiments, for the sake of simplicity, they are all described as a series of action combinations, but those skilled in the art should know that the utility model is not limited by the described action sequence, because according to the utility model, some steps may be performed in other sequences or simultaneously. Secondly, those skilled in the art should also know that the embodiments described in the specification are all preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily required by the utility model.

[0050] In the several embodiments provided in the present application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely schematic, such as the division of the above-mentioned units. There may be other division methods in actual implementation, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the mutual coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units can be in the form of telecommunication or other forms.

[0051] The units described above as separate components may or may not be physically separated, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed on multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the solution of this embodiment.

[0052] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the utility model, rather than to limit the protection scope of the utility model. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the utility model, rather than all embodiments. Based on these embodiments, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of the utility model. Although the utility model has been described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, ordinary technicians in this field can still combine, add, delete or make other adjustments to the features in the various embodiments of the utility model according to the circumstances without conflict, without making creative work, so as to obtain different other technical solutions that do not deviate from the concept of the utility model in essence, and these technical solutions also belong to the scope of protection of the utility model.

Claims

1. A locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column, characterized in that: include: Upper column tube and locking structure; A mounting bracket disposed at the lower portion of the upper column tube; The opposite side of the mounting bracket is provided with a reserved hole; A connecting shaft passing through the two reserved holes; Among them, one end of the connecting shaft is provided with an anti-blocking head; the other end is provided with an external thread matching with the locking structure; The locking structure comprises: A first cam locking block, wherein the first cam locking block is arranged on a side of the mounting bracket away from the connecting shaft; A handle is provided on a side of the first cam locking block away from the mounting bracket; A second cam locking block is provided on a side of the handle opposite to the first cam locking block; a connecting member disposed between the first cam locking block and the second cam locking block; The connecting shaft passes through the first cam locking block and the second cam locking block, and an adjusting nut is threadedly matched at one end through which the connecting shaft passes.

2. A locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting piece comprises: A connecting block disposed on the outer side wall of the first cam locking block; A connecting slot is provided on a side of the second cam locking block opposite to the first cam locking block, and the first cam locking block and the second cam locking block are engaged with each other through the connecting slot.

3. A locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that: A return spring is connected to a side of the first cam locking block opposite to the mounting bracket, and a damper is arranged inside the return spring.

4. A locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The outer surface of the locking structure is provided with a polyurethane coating.

5. A locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The handle is provided with anti-skid patterns.

6. A locking force mechanism for improving the holding force of a steering column as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that: A force sensor is arranged on the first cam locking block.

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