Steering column adjusting assembly, steering assembly and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model provides a steering column adjusting assembly, a steering assembly and a vehicle, the steering column adjusting assembly is used for being installed in an installation hole in a steering column holder and abutting against a steering column, and the steering column adjusting assembly comprises an abutting portion, an elastic portion and an installation portion. The abutting part is installed in the installation hole in a sliding mode, and the side, close to the steering column, of the abutting part is provided with an abutting face making contact with the surface of the steering column. The elastic part is arranged in the mounting hole and located on the side, away from the steering column, of the abutting part. The installation part is installed in the installation hole and can be adjusted in the sliding direction of the abutting part, and the installation part extrudes the elastic part to enable the abutting part to abut against the steering column in a sliding mode. Wherein the abutting surface is provided with a groove for accommodating a lubricating material. The steering column adjusting assembly can solve the problem that an existing steering column cannot give consideration to modality and smoothness in adjustment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of vehicle technology, specifically to a steering column adjustment assembly, a steering assembly, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] The vehicle's steering assembly includes the steering column, which is responsible for transmitting steering angle and force. The steering column consists of multiple precision components, including a locking lever, camshaft, locking stop, unlocking lever, and unlocking button. These components work together to ensure vehicle stability. The steering column is adjustable, allowing for axial and radial adjustment. Adjustment should be smooth with a deep, clear sound. However, because the steering wheel is fixed to the steering column, high overall modal rigidity and high stability are required for driving safety. These two requirements are contradictory. Therefore, a novel steering column adjustment assembly, steering assembly, and vehicle are needed to meet both the modal and adjustment smoothness requirements. Utility Model Content

[0003] This invention provides a steering column adjustment assembly, a steering assembly, and a vehicle to improve the problem that existing steering column adjustments cannot simultaneously address modal characteristics and smoothness.

[0004] To achieve the above and other related objectives, the first aspect of this utility model provides a steering column adjustment assembly for mounting in a mounting hole on a steering column holder and abutting against the steering column. The steering column adjustment assembly includes a supporting portion, an elastic portion, and a mounting portion. The supporting portion is slidably mounted in the mounting hole and has a contact surface that contacts the steering column surface on the side closest to the steering column. The elastic portion is disposed in the mounting hole and located on the side of the supporting portion opposite to the steering column. The mounting portion is mounted in the mounting hole and is adjustable along the sliding direction of the supporting portion. The mounting portion presses against the elastic portion, causing the supporting portion to slide and abut against the steering column. The contact surface has a groove for accommodating lubricating material.

[0005] The beneficial effects of this design are as follows: The steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model can adjust the clamping amount of the supporting part on the steering column by adjusting the position of the mounting part, which can meet the requirements of stiffness and modal adjustment. At the same time, the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model has a groove for accommodating lubricating material on the abutment surface. The lubricating material can be accommodated in the groove and slowly released after the abutment surface abuts against the steering column. Thus, during the axial and radial adjustment of the steering column relative to the steering column cage, the abutment surface and the steering column are kept sufficiently lubricated, which can increase the smoothness of adjustment.

[0006] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, at least a portion of the contact surface is made of a self-lubricating material.

[0007] The beneficial effect of this design is that, in the event of insufficient lubricating material, the contact surface can maintain lubrication between the contact surface and the steering column through its own material properties, thereby increasing the service life of the contact part.

[0008] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the material of the supporting part is polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0009] The beneficial effects of this design are: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is resistant to acids, alkalis, and various organic solvents, and can resist the corrosion of lubricating materials. At the same time, PTFE is also resistant to high temperatures and has an extremely low coefficient of friction, thus possessing self-lubricating properties.

[0010] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the lubricating material is grease, and a grease-receiving cavity is formed between the mounting part and the wall of the mounting hole, and the grease-receiving cavity is connected to the groove.

[0011] The advantages of this design are as follows: by setting up a grease-containing cavity, more lubricating material can be stored. The heat generated during the friction between the contact surface and the steering column will melt the grease and allow it to flow into the groove, thereby replenishing the grease in the groove, reducing the frequency of grease replenishment and extending maintenance time.

[0012] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, a sealing structure is provided between the mounting part and the mounting hole to prevent lubricating material from overflowing.

[0013] The benefits of this design are twofold: First, the sealing structure effectively prevents grease leakage from the gap between the mounting part and the mounting hole, reducing resource waste and maintaining the cleanliness and performance of the steering column adjustment assembly. Second, the good sealing performance also prevents dust, moisture, and other contaminants from entering the steering column, thus avoiding damage to internal mechanical components and extending their service life. Furthermore, because this structure reduces grease leakage, the frequency of grease maintenance and replacement is correspondingly reduced, thereby decreasing maintenance costs and workload.

[0014] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the grooves are distributed in a grid pattern and the abutment surface is divided into several protrusions, the surfaces of the protrusions being in contact with the surface of the steering column.

[0015] The advantages of this design are as follows: the grid-like grooves divide the contact surface into multiple protrusions, providing uniform support in different directions and reducing wear and malfunctions caused by poor contact. In the event of a collision, the grid-like grooves and protrusions work together to provide better energy absorption. Furthermore, the grid-like grooves divide the contact surface into multiple independent protrusions, which does not affect stability while reducing the mating area, thus improving assembly accuracy. More importantly, the interconnected grid-like grooves surround the contact points between the protrusions and the steering column, ensuring comprehensive lubrication between the contact surface and the steering column.

[0016] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the abutment part includes a first abutment body and a second abutment body connected to each other by a weak structure. The abutment surfaces on the first abutment body and the second abutment body abut against the steering column, and their projections along the sliding direction of the abutment part are respectively located on both sides of the axis of the steering column.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this design are as follows: the contact surfaces on the first and second contact bodies abut against the steering column, and the projections along the sliding direction of the support part are located on both sides of the axis of the steering column. This layout can provide better force transmission and distribution. At the same time, the design of the weak structure allows for a certain degree of relative movement between the first and second contact bodies, reducing wear and stress concentration.

[0018] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the groove is located on the first abutment body and the second abutment body, and the groove has multiple openings formed on the edges of the first abutment body and the second abutment body. The edge of the first abutment body and / or the second abutment body near the steering column is provided with a retaining edge or an arc-shaped groove, and the retaining edge or the arc-shaped groove is provided on the outside of at least part of the openings.

[0019] The beneficial effects of this design are as follows: Firstly, the flange or arc-shaped groove can prevent lubricating material from overflowing from the corresponding groove's external opening, reducing contamination caused by grease leakage and preventing insufficient lubrication between the contact surface and the steering column due to lubricating material leakage. Simultaneously, the flange also prevents contaminants from entering. The arc-shaped groove can block and contain the overflowing grease, reducing contamination after leakage, and can also temporarily store grease for replenishment in the central area when grease levels are low, thus improving the frequency of lubrication.

[0020] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the abutment surface further includes a retaining edge, which surrounds the groove along the edge of the abutment surface.

[0021] The benefits of this design are twofold: First, the flange surrounding the edge of the contact surface outside the groove helps to even out the stress at the edge, reducing localized stress concentration caused by the groove and thus lowering the risk of fatigue damage. Second, the flange prevents lubricating material from overflowing, reducing contamination caused by grease leakage and preventing insufficient lubrication between the contact surface and the steering column due to lubricating material leakage. The flange also prevents contaminants from entering.

[0022] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the abutment surface further includes an arc-shaped groove, which surrounds the groove.

[0023] The beneficial effects of this design are as follows: Firstly, the arc-shaped groove surrounds the groove, forming a closed-loop groove. When the grease flows from the center of the contact surface to the edge, the groove can block and contain the outflowing grease, which can reduce the contamination caused by the outflow of grease. It can also temporarily store grease and replenish it to the center area when there is less grease in the center area, which can improve the number of lubrication cycles.

[0024] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the axial direction of the mounting part is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part.

[0025] The advantages of this design are: the axis of the mounting part is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part, and the supporting part can slide a longer distance by turning the mounting part within a small range. The positive pressure of the elastic part can be consistent with the preset sliding direction of the supporting part, which improves the adjustment accuracy and reliability, and also optimizes space utilization.

[0026] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the mounting part and / or the supporting part are provided with a positioning structure for positioning the elastic part.

[0027] The advantages of this design are as follows: the positioning structure ensures the correct position of the elastic component on the mounting and / or supporting parts, thereby improving assembly accuracy and consistency. Simultaneously, precise positioning ensures the elastic component functions as intended in the steering column adjustment assembly, guaranteeing the proper operation of the assembled mechanical equipment.

[0028] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, the elastic part is a spring, and the axis of the spring is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part.

[0029] The benefits of this design are as follows: as a standardized component, the spring is relatively easy to maintain and replace, which helps reduce long-term operating and maintenance costs. The spring design provides stable elastic support, and its axis being parallel to the sliding direction of the abutment helps maintain the stability of the steering column, reducing performance variations under high loads or extreme conditions, thereby improving the reliability of the entire system.

[0030] A second aspect of this utility model is to provide a steering assembly, which includes a steering column retainer and a steering column inserted into the steering column retainer, and a steering column adjusting assembly as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the abutting portion of the steering column adjusting assembly abuts against the steering column.

[0031] The beneficial effects of this design are as follows: The steering assembly of this utility model includes the steering column adjustment assembly of this utility model, which can meet the requirements of stiffness and modal adjustment. At the same time, after the abutting surface abuts against the steering column, it can slowly release lubricating material, thereby maintaining sufficient lubrication between the abutting surface and the steering column during the axial and radial adjustment of the steering column relative to the steering column cage, which can increase the smoothness of adjustment.

[0032] In one embodiment of the steering assembly of this utility model, there are at least two sets of steering column adjustment assemblies, which are arranged in a straight line along the axial direction of the steering column.

[0033] The benefits of this design are that by arranging at least two sets of adjustment components in a straight line along the steering column axis, the load can be shared, stress concentration in individual components can be reduced, the stability and reliability of the entire steering system can be improved, and the failure rate can be reduced.

[0034] A third aspect of this invention also provides a vehicle that includes the steering assembly described in any of the preceding claims.

[0035] The beneficial effects of this design are as follows: the vehicle of this utility model includes the steering assembly of this utility model, which can not only meet the requirements of stiffness and modal adjustment, but also maintain sufficient lubrication between the contact surface and the steering column during the axial and radial adjustment of the steering column relative to the steering column cage, and the steering wheel adjustment has a high degree of smoothness. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other embodiments can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a partial structural diagram of the steering assembly of this utility model in one embodiment;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a partial exploded view of the steering assembly of this utility model in one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Sectional view of AA;

[0040] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of region I;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the supporting part in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a front view of the supporting part in one embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A view from the center (BB direction);

[0044] Figure 8 This is a front view of the supporting part in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a front view of the supporting part in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 10 This is a front view of the supporting part in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 11 This is a front view of the supporting part in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Component designation explanation

[0049] 100. Steering column adjustment assembly; 110. Mounting part; 111. Positioning groove; 120. Sealing structure; 130. Elastic part; 140. Supporting part; 141. Abutting surface; 1411. Groove; 1412. Protrusion; 1413. Arc groove; 1414. Edge; 1415. Opening; 142. Sliding block; 143. First abutting body; 144. Second abutting body; 145. Weak structure; 146. Connecting hole; 147. Positioning boss; 200. Steering column; 300. Steering column retainer; 310. Mounting hole; 311. Slide groove; 312. Grease receiving cavity. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this utility model from the content disclosed in this specification. This utility model can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of this utility model. It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features in the embodiments can be combined with each other. It should also be understood that the terminology used in the embodiments of this utility model is for describing specific implementation schemes and not for limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. Test methods in the following embodiments that do not specify specific conditions are generally performed under conventional conditions or according to the conditions recommended by the respective manufacturers.

[0051] When numerical ranges are given in the embodiments, it should be understood that, unless otherwise specified in this invention, both endpoints of each numerical range and any value between the two endpoints may be selected. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this invention, as well as the prior art known to those skilled in the art and the description of this invention, may be implemented using any prior art methods, equipment, and materials similar to or equivalent to those in the embodiments of this invention.

[0052] It should be noted that the terms such as "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "middle" and "one" used in this specification are only for clarity of description and are not intended to limit the scope of implementation of this utility model. Changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, should also be considered as within the scope of implementation of this utility model.

[0053] Please see Figures 1 to 11 This utility model provides a steering column adjustment assembly 100, a steering assembly, and a vehicle. The steering column adjustment assembly 100 can not only adjust the clamping force of the abutment part 140 on the steering column 200 by adjusting the position of the mounting part 110, but also allow the lubricating material to be contained in the groove 1411 of the abutment surface 141, so as to slowly release the lubricating material, thereby improving the problem that the existing steering column 200 adjustment cannot take into account both mode and smoothness.

[0054] Please see Figures 1 to 4The steering column adjustment assembly 100 is installed in the mounting hole 310 on the steering column retainer 300 and abuts against the surface of the steering column 200. The upper end of the steering column 200 is used to mount the steering wheel, and the lower end is used to connect the steering gear. The steering column adjustment assembly 100 includes a supporting part 140, an elastic part 130, and a mounting part 110. The supporting part 140 is slidably installed in the mounting hole 310. The sliding installation method is not limited, as long as it can adjust the preload along a straight line away from and towards the steering column 200. Specifically, in this embodiment, the mounting part 110 is provided with a groove 311, and the supporting part 140 is provided with a slider 142. The slider 142 is slidably installed in the groove 311 to position the supporting part 140 during its sliding process. However, those skilled in the art will understand that a slider 142 can also be provided on the mounting portion 110, and a groove 311 can be provided on the supporting portion 140, as long as the slider 142 and the groove 311 can cooperate with each other to achieve positioning; or, the slider 142 and the groove 311 can be omitted, and sliding limit can be achieved by the cooperation between the outer periphery of the supporting portion 140 and the inner wall of the mounting hole 310. The supporting portion 140 has an abutment surface 141 on the side near the steering column 200 that contacts the surface of the steering column 200. In order to maintain close contact with the cylindrical surface of the steering column 200, the abutment surface 141 is usually distributed on the cylindrical surface that matches the outer cylindrical surface of the steering column 200. The elastic portion 130 is provided in the mounting hole 310 and is located on the side of the supporting portion 140 away from the steering column 200. The structure of the elastic portion 130 is not limited, including but not limited to springs, leaf springs, and elastic bodies made of soft elastic materials. The mounting part 110 is installed in the mounting hole 310. The installation method of the mounting part 110 is not limited, as long as it can adjust the compression of the elastic part 130 along the sliding direction of the supporting part 140. Specifically, in this embodiment, the mounting hole 310 is provided with an internal thread, and the mounting part 110 is provided with an external thread. The external thread and the internal thread are threadedly connected. During the process of screwing the thread toward the elastic part 130, the mounting part 110 compresses the elastic part 130, causing the supporting part 140 to slide and press against the steering column 200. When it is necessary to adjust the pressing state, the amount of compression of the supporting part 140 against the steering column 200 can be adjusted by screwing the thread of the mounting part 110, so that the pressing of the supporting part 140 can meet the requirements of stiffness and modal characteristics.

[0055] Please see Figure 5The contact surface 141 is provided with a groove 1411 for accommodating lubricating material. The shape of the groove 1411 is not limited, as long as it can form a recess to accommodate a portion of the lubricating material. Compared with an adjustment structure without lubricating material, it has better adjustment smoothness and lubrication durability. The type of lubricating material is not limited, for example, it can be lubricating powder, lubricating grease or lubricating liquid. Preferably, considering fluidity and retention durability, the lubricating material in this embodiment is lubricating grease. By providing a groove 1411 for accommodating lubricating material on the contact surface 141, the lubricating material can be accommodated in the groove 1411. After the contact surface 141 abuts against the steering column 200, the lubricating material can be slowly released, thereby maintaining sufficient lubrication between the contact surface 141 and the steering column 200 during the axial and radial adjustment of the steering column 200 relative to the steering column retainer 300, which can increase the smoothness of adjustment.

[0056] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the contact surface is a self-lubricating material. Those skilled in the art will understand that, all other things being equal, a partially self-lubricating contact surface can provide better lubrication performance than a contact surface without a self-lubricating material; however, preferably, a completely self-lubricating contact surface provides even better benefits. Self-lubricating materials include, but are not limited to, metal-based self-lubricating materials, non-metal-based self-lubricating materials, polymer-based self-lubricating materials, and soft metal self-lubricating materials. Examples of metal-based self-lubricating materials include copper-based, aluminum-based, nickel-based, silver-based, and iron-based solid self-lubricating composite materials. Examples of non-metal-based self-lubricating materials include graphite, fluorinated graphite, alumina, and titanium carbide. Examples of polymer-based self-lubricating materials include, for example, polyamide (Nylon), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyoxymethylene (POM), and polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Soft metal self-lubricating materials, such as silver (Ag), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr), typically form a lubricating film on the surface of friction materials to improve friction and wear performance. The entire abutment portion 140 can be made of a self-lubricating material, or the self-lubricating material can be coated onto the abutment surface as a lubricating coating. In cases where the lubricating material stored in the groove 1411 is insufficient, the abutment surface can maintain lubrication between the abutment surface and the steering column 200 through its own material properties, thereby increasing the service life of the abutment portion 140.

[0057] In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly 100 of this utility model, the abutment part 140 is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE, also known as Teflon, is a high-molecular polymer polymerized from tetrafluoroethylene monomers, with the chemical formula (C2F4)n. It exhibits excellent heat and cold resistance and can be used for extended periods at temperatures ranging from -180 to 260ºC. This material is resistant to acids, alkalis, and various organic solvents, and is virtually insoluble in all solvents. Furthermore, PTFE is heat-resistant, has an extremely low coefficient of friction, and possesses self-lubricating properties.

[0058] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly 100 of this utility model, the lubricating material is grease. A grease-receiving cavity 312 is formed between the mounting part 110 and the wall of the mounting hole 310. The shape of the grease-receiving cavity 312 is not limited, as long as it can accommodate a portion of the grease. The grease-receiving cavity 312 is connected to the groove 1411, and the connection method is not limited. For example, a through hole can be provided on the supporting part 140 to connect the grease-receiving cavity 312 and the groove 1411. By providing the grease-receiving cavity 312, more lubricating material can be stored. The heat generated during the friction between the contact surface 141 and the steering column 200 will cause the grease to melt slowly and flow into the groove, thereby replenishing the grease in the groove, reducing the frequency of grease replenishment, and extending the maintenance time.

[0059] Please see Figure 4 In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly 100 of this utility model, a sealing structure 120 is provided between the mounting part 110 and the mounting hole 310 to prevent lubricating material from overflowing. The sealing structure 120 effectively prevents grease from leaking from the gap between the mounting part 110 and the mounting hole 310, reducing resource waste and maintaining the cleanliness and performance of the steering column adjustment assembly 100. Furthermore, the good sealing performance also prevents dust, moisture, and other contaminants from entering the steering column 200, thereby avoiding damage to internal mechanical parts and extending their service life. Simultaneously, this structure reduces grease leakage, thus decreasing the frequency of maintenance and grease replacement, thereby reducing maintenance costs and workload. The sealing structure 120 can be any suitable form, such as an O-ring, a skeleton oil seal, a packing seal, a labyrinth seal, etc. In this embodiment, an O-ring seal is selected because it is smaller in size, reducing machining requirements and lowering costs.

[0060] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 6In one embodiment, the grooves 1411 are distributed in a grid pattern. The shape of the grid is not limited, as long as they are connected to form an interlocking mesh structure. The mesh-like grooves 1411 divide the abutment surface 141 into several protrusions 1412. The shape of the protrusions 1412 corresponds to the shape of the grid. Specifically, in this embodiment, the grid divides the abutment surface 141 into several protrusions 1412 with approximately rhomboid surfaces (the edges are not completely rhomboid due to shape limitations). The surfaces of the protrusions 1412 are in contact with the surface of the steering column 200. The grid-like grooves 1411 divide the abutment surface 141 into multiple protrusions 1412, which can provide uniform support in different directions and reduce wear and failures caused by poor contact. In the event of a collision, the grid-like grooves 1411 and protrusions 1412 structure can cooperate to provide better energy absorption. Furthermore, the grid-like grooves 1411 divide the abutment surface 141 into multiple independent protrusions 1412, which not only does not affect stability but also reduces the mating area, thus helping to improve assembly accuracy. More importantly, the grid-like grooves 1411 are interconnected and can surround the protrusions 1412, which can ensure comprehensive lubrication between the abutment surface 141 and the steering column 200.

[0061] Please see Figures 5 to 8 In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly 100 of this utility model, the abutment part 140 includes a first abutment body 143 and a second abutment body 144 connected to each other by a weak structure 145. The specific structure of the weak structure 145 is not limited, as long as it is weaker than the first abutment body 143 and the second abutment body 144 so that there is a certain degree of relative freedom between the first abutment body 143 and the second abutment body 144. This is more conducive to improving the contact tightness between the first abutment body 143 and the second abutment body 144 and the steering column 200. In this embodiment, the weak structure 145 is a hollow structure disposed between the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144. The grease receiving cavity is connected to the groove 1411 through the hollow structure. The weak structure 145 includes two rings, with the two sides of the rings connected to the first abutment 143 and the second abutment respectively. The abutment surfaces 141 on the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144 abut against the steering column 200, and their projections along the sliding direction of the abutment portion 140 are located on both sides of the axis of the steering column 200. The abutment surfaces 141 on the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144 abut against the steering column 200, and their projections along the sliding direction of the abutment portion 140 are located on both sides of the axis of the steering column 200, provide better force transmission and distribution. At the same time, the design of the weak structure 145 allows for a certain degree of relative movement between the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144, which makes the abutment more reliable.

[0062] Please see Figure 8In one embodiment, the groove 1411 has multiple openings 1415 formed on the edges of the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144. A retaining edge 1414 is provided on the edge of the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144 near the steering column 200. The height of the retaining edge 1414 is preferably lower than the protrusion 1412 and higher than the bottom of the groove 1411. This prevents grease from overflowing without interfering with the contact between the protrusion 1412 and the steering column 200. The retaining edge 1414 is located on the outside of at least some of the openings 1415. On the one hand, the retaining edge 1414 can prevent lubricating material from overflowing from the corresponding external openings 1415 of the groove 1411, reducing contamination caused by grease leakage and preventing insufficient lubrication between the abutment surface 141 and the steering column 200 due to lubricating material leakage. Simultaneously, the retaining edge 1414 also prevents contaminants from entering. It should be noted that in some other embodiments, the retaining edge 1414 is located on the outside of the openings 1415 of the groove 1411. Figure 8 Compared to the embodiments in the previous one, the first abutment body 143 or the second abutment body 144 is provided with a retaining edge 1414 only on the edge of the side near the steering column 200. Those skilled in the art will understand that the abutment body with the retaining edge 1414 has better lubrication performance than the abutment body without the retaining edge 1414.

[0063] Please see Figure 9 In one embodiment, the groove 1411 has multiple openings 1415 formed on the edges of the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144. An arc-shaped groove 1413 is provided on the edge of the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144 near the steering column 200, and the arc-shaped groove 1413 is located outside at least a portion of the openings 1415. The arc-shaped groove 1413 extends along the edges of the first abutment 143 and the second abutment 144. It is preferable that the bottom surface of the arc-shaped groove 1413 is slightly lower than the bottom of the groove 1411. For example, the height difference between the bottom surface of the arc-shaped groove 1413 and the bottom of the groove 1411 can be 3~5mm. This allows for the accumulation of grease and enables the groove 1411 to be replenished when a large amount of grease accumulates in the arc-shaped groove 1413. The arc-shaped groove 1413 can block and contain the outflowing grease, reducing contamination caused by grease leakage. It can also temporarily store grease so that it can be replenished to the central area when grease levels are low, thus improving lubrication frequency. It should be noted that in some other embodiments, compared with... Figure 9 Compared to the embodiments in the previous one, the arc groove 1413 is provided only on the edge of the first abutment body 143 or the second abutment body 144 near the steering column 200. Those skilled in the art will understand that the abutment body with the arc groove 1413 has better lubrication performance than the abutment body without the arc groove 1413.

[0064] Please see Figure 10 In one embodiment of this utility model, the supporting part 140 structure is similar to... Figure 8 Unlike the previous embodiment, the abutment portion 140 does not have a weak structure 145 in the middle, the abutment surface 141 is not divided by the weak structure 145, the groove 1411 communicates with the grease receiving cavity 312 through the connecting hole 146, and the abutment surface 141 also includes a retaining edge 1414, which surrounds the edge of the abutment surface 141 and surrounds the groove 1411, forming a closed-loop contour. On the one hand, the retaining edge 1414 surrounds the edge of the abutment surface 141 outside all the grooves 1411, which helps to equalize the stress at the edge and can reduce the local stress concentration at the edge caused by the groove 1411, thereby reducing the risk of fatigue damage. On the other hand, the retaining edge 1414 can prevent the lubricating material from overflowing, which can reduce the contamination caused by the grease flowing out, and can also prevent insufficient lubrication between the abutment surface 141 and the steering column 200 due to the flow of lubricating material. At the same time, the retaining edge 1414 can also prevent contaminants from entering.

[0065] Please see Figure 11 In one embodiment, with Figure 10 The difference in the embodiment is that the contact surface 141 also includes an arc-shaped groove 1413, which surrounds the contact surface 141 and encloses the groove 1411. It is preferable that the bottom surface of the arc-shaped groove 1413 is slightly lower than the bottom of the groove 1411; for example, the height difference between the bottom surface of the arc-shaped groove 1413 and the bottom of the groove 1411 can be 3-5 mm. On the one hand, the arc-shaped groove 1413 surrounds all the grooves 1411, forming a closed loop of grooves 1411. When grease flows from the center of the contact surface 141 to the edge, the groove 1411 can block and contain the outflowing grease, reducing contamination caused by grease leakage. It can also temporarily store grease so that when there is less grease in the central area, grease can be replenished to the central area, thus improving the frequency of lubrication.

[0066] Please see Figure 4 In one embodiment, the axial direction of the mounting portion 110 is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting portion 140. Specifically, in this embodiment, the mounting portion 110 is a round nut, and the supporting portion 140 slides radially along the steering column 200. The axial direction of the round nut is also radially along the steering column 200 and parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting portion 140. Since the axial direction of the mounting portion 110 is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting portion 140, a longer sliding distance of the supporting portion 140 can be achieved by tightening the mounting portion 110 within a small range. This allows the positive pressure of the elastic portion 130 to be consistent with the preset sliding direction of the supporting portion 140, improving adjustment accuracy and reliability, and optimizing space utilization.

[0067] Please see Figure 4In one embodiment of the steering column adjustment assembly 100 of this utility model, the mounting part 110 and the supporting part 140 are provided with positioning structures for positioning the elastic part 130. The specific structure of the positioning structure is not limited as long as it can provide positioning for the elastic part 130, including but not limited to positioning bosses 147 or positioning grooves 111 that cooperate with the elastic part 130 to achieve positioning. In this embodiment, the elastic part 130 is a spring, and the axis of the spring is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part 140. As a standardized component, the spring is relatively simple to maintain and replace, which helps to reduce long-term operation and maintenance costs. The spring design provides stable elastic support, and its axis being parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part 140 helps to maintain the stability of the steering column 200, reduce performance changes under high loads or extreme conditions, and thus improve the reliability of the entire system. The positioning structure on the mounting part 110 is a positioning groove 111, and the positioning structure on the supporting part 140 is a positioning boss 147. One end of the spring is positioned and installed in the positioning groove 111, and the other end of the spring is fitted and positioned on the positioning boss 147. The positioning structure ensures the correct position of the elastic part 130 on the mounting part 110 and the supporting part 140, thereby improving the accuracy and consistency of assembly. Simultaneously, precise positioning ensures that the elastic part 130 performs its intended function in the steering column adjustment assembly 100, guaranteeing the normal operation of the assembled mechanical equipment. Positioning structures for positioning the elastic part 130 are provided on the mounting part 110 and the supporting part 140. Those skilled in the art will understand that in other embodiments, positioning structures may be provided only on the mounting part 110 or the supporting part 140, achieving a certain positioning effect and maintaining the installation stability of the spring to a certain extent.

[0068] The second aspect of this utility model is to provide a steering assembly, which includes a steering column retainer 300 and a steering column 200 inserted into the steering column retainer 300, and a steering column adjustment assembly 100 of any of the above, wherein the abutment portion 140 of the steering column adjustment assembly 100 abuts against the steering column 200. This utility model steering assembly, including the steering column adjustment assembly 100, can meet the requirements for stiffness and modal adjustment. Simultaneously, after the abutment surface 141 abuts against the steering column 200, it can slowly release lubricating material, thereby maintaining sufficient lubrication between the abutment surface 141 and the steering column 200 during axial and radial adjustment of the steering column 200 relative to the steering column retainer 300, thus increasing the smoothness of adjustment.

[0069] In one embodiment of the steering assembly of this utility model, there are at least two sets of steering column adjustment assemblies 100, which are arranged in a straight line along the axial direction of the steering column 200. Arranging at least two sets of adjustment assemblies in a straight line along the axial direction of the steering column 200 can distribute the load, reduce stress concentration in individual components, improve the stability and reliability of the entire steering system, and thus reduce the failure rate.

[0070] A third aspect of this invention also provides a vehicle comprising the steering assembly described above. The vehicle of this invention includes the steering assembly of this invention, which not only meets the requirements for stiffness and modal adjustment, but also maintains sufficient lubrication between the contact surface 141 and the steering column 200 during axial and radial adjustments of the steering column 200 relative to the steering column retainer 300, resulting in high smoothness of steering wheel adjustment.

[0071] In summary, the steering column adjustment assembly of this invention allows for adjustment of the clamping amount of the supporting part on the steering column by tightening the threads of the mounting part, thus meeting the requirements for stiffness and modal adjustment. Furthermore, by providing a groove on the abutment surface for accommodating lubricating material, the lubricating material can be contained within the groove and slowly released after the abutment surface contacts the steering column. This ensures sufficient lubrication between the abutment surface and the steering column during axial and radial adjustments relative to the steering column cage, increasing the smoothness of adjustment. Therefore, this invention effectively overcomes some practical problems in the prior art, thus possessing high utilization value and practical significance.

[0072] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of this utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Any person skilled in the art can modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed in this utility model should still be covered by the claims of this utility model.

Claims

1. A steering column adjusting assembly for mounting in a mounting hole on a steering column retainer and abutting against the steering column, characterized in that, include: The abutment part is slidably installed in the mounting hole, and has an abutment surface that contacts the surface of the steering column on the side near the steering column. An elastic part is provided in the mounting hole and located on the side of the abutment part away from the steering column; The mounting part is installed in the mounting hole and is adjustable along the sliding direction of the supporting part. The mounting part presses the elastic part to make the supporting part press against the steering column. The contact surface is provided with a groove for accommodating lubricating material.

2. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least part of the contact surface is made of a self-lubricating material.

3. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The abutment part is made of polytetrafluoroethylene.

4. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lubricating material is grease, and a grease-containing cavity is formed between the mounting part and the wall of the mounting hole, and the grease-containing cavity is connected to the groove.

5. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, A sealing structure is provided between the mounting part and the mounting hole to prevent lubricating material from overflowing.

6. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The grooves are distributed in a grid pattern and divide the contact surface into several protrusions, the surfaces of which are in contact with the surface of the steering column.

7. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The supporting part includes a first abutting body and a second abutting body connected to each other by a weak structure. The abutting surfaces on the first abutting body and the second abutting body abut against the steering column, and their projections along the sliding direction of the supporting part are located on both sides of the axis of the steering column.

8. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The groove is located on the first abutment body and the second abutment body. The groove has multiple openings formed on the edges of the first abutment body and the second abutment body. The edge of the first abutment body and / or the second abutment body near the steering column is provided with a retaining edge or an arc-shaped groove. The retaining edge or the arc-shaped groove is provided on the outside of at least part of the openings.

9. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The abutting surface also includes a retaining edge, which surrounds the groove along the edge of the abutting surface.

10. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact surface also includes an arc-shaped groove that surrounds the groove.

11. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axial direction of the mounting part is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part.

12. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The mounting portion and / or the supporting portion are provided with a positioning structure for positioning the elastic portion.

13. The steering column adjustment assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic part is a spring, and the axis of the spring is parallel to the sliding direction of the supporting part.

14. A steering assembly comprising a steering column retainer and a steering column inserted into the steering column retainer, characterized in that, It also includes a steering column adjustment assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the abutment portion of the steering column adjustment assembly abuts against the steering column.

15. The steering assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The steering column adjustment assembly consists of at least two sets, arranged in a straight line along the axial direction of the steering column.

16. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the steering component as described in any one of claims 14 to 15.

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