Steering mechanism and vehicle having the same

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of steering mechanism and vehicle with it, it is related to vehicle technical field.Steering mechanism includes: steering drag link, steering drag link has connecting rod section, connecting rod section is used to assemble steering drag link;Spindle, connecting structure is provided on spindle, connecting structure has the opening end being set to the side of steering drag link, at least part of connecting rod section extends into connecting structure;Wherein, the outer circumferential surface of part of connecting rod section is provided with first matching structure, connecting structure is provided with second matching structure, wherein, first matching structure is one of connecting key, key groove, and second matching structure is another one of connecting key, key groove.Application of the technical solution of the present application solves the problem of insufficient torque transmission capacity and accuracy of the steering mechanism in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of vehicle technology, and more specifically, to a steering mechanism and a vehicle having the same. Background Technology

[0002] In automotive steering systems, the connection between the steering tie rod and the steering knuckle is crucial for achieving vehicle handling performance. Traditional connections primarily rely on ball-and-pin structures, where the ball-and-pin engages with the steering knuckle, utilizing the taper of the ball-and-pin for axial positioning, and is then locked in place with a nut to ensure stability. However, the ball-and-pin structure has limited torque transmission capabilities, failing to meet the high torque demands of modern high-performance vehicles. As vehicle performance continues to improve, steering systems need to withstand greater torque to ensure accuracy and stability at high speeds or in complex road conditions. Traditional ball-and-pin structures, due to their design limitations, cannot effectively transmit large torques, thus restricting the performance of the vehicle's steering system. Secondly, the ball-and-pin structure lacks an effective circumferential positioning mechanism, potentially leading to positioning errors during steering. Circumferential positioning is crucial for ensuring precise angular alignment between the steering tie rod and the steering knuckle, especially at high speeds. Even small positioning errors can cause delayed or unstable steering response, affecting driving safety. The traditional ball-and-pin structure, due to its design characteristics, struggles to achieve precise circumferential positioning, thus impacting the overall performance of the steering system.

[0003] There is currently no effective solution to the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide a steering mechanism and a vehicle having the same, in order to solve the problems of insufficient torque transmission capability and accuracy of existing steering mechanisms.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a steering mechanism is provided, comprising: a steering tie rod having a connecting rod segment for assembling the steering tie rod; a steering knuckle having a connecting structure having an open end facing the side where the steering tie rod is located, and at least a portion of the connecting rod segment extending into the connecting structure; wherein a first mating structure is provided on the outer peripheral surface of a portion of the connecting rod segment, and a second mating structure is provided on the connecting structure, wherein the first mating structure is one of a connecting key and a keyway, and the second mating structure is the other of a connecting key and a keyway.

[0006] Furthermore, at least a portion of the connecting rod segment is configured as a variable diameter structure. The inner wall of the connecting structure is provided with a variable diameter fitting structure that mates with the variable diameter structure in the radial and axial directions. The variable diameter structure has a first outer diameter near the opening end and a second outer diameter away from the opening end, wherein the first outer diameter is larger than the second outer diameter.

[0007] Furthermore, the variable diameter structure includes one or a combination of tapered structure, stepped structure, and both.

[0008] Furthermore, the connecting key includes one or a combination of splines, flat keys, or both.

[0009] Furthermore, the connecting key includes a spline, one of the connecting rod segment and the connecting structure is provided with a spline, and the spline has at least one missing tooth, and the other of the connecting rod segment and the connecting structure is provided with a missing tooth mating structure that mates with the missing tooth.

[0010] Furthermore, the variable diameter structure includes a tapered structure, and the connecting key includes a spline. The spline is disposed on the connecting rod segment in the axial direction of the steering tie rod. The spline is disposed adjacent to the tapered structure, and the tapered structure is disposed near the open end. The spline is located on the side of the tapered structure away from the open end.

[0011] Furthermore, the steering tie rods and steering knuckles are both made of steel.

[0012] Furthermore, the steering knuckle includes a steering knuckle body and a connecting member. The steering knuckle body has a receiving space for accommodating the connecting member. The connecting member is located within the receiving space and connected to the steering knuckle body. The connecting member is provided with a connecting structure.

[0013] Furthermore, the steering knuckle body is made of aluminum, while the connecting parts and steering tie rods are made of steel.

[0014] Furthermore, the steering tie rod is connected to the motor output shaft, or the steering tie rod and the motor output shaft are integrally formed.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle having a steering mechanism, the steering mechanism being the aforementioned steering mechanism.

[0016] By applying the technical solution of this utility model, the connecting rod segment of the steering tie rod extends into the connecting structure of the steering knuckle. By setting a connecting key and a keyway on the connecting rod segment and the connecting structure respectively, the cooperation between the connecting key and the keyway can realize a stable connection between the steering tie rod and the steering knuckle, ensuring the effective transmission of torque. At the same time, it improves the overall stability and reliability of the steering mechanism and reduces the safety hazards caused by the failure of the connection between the steering tie rod and the steering knuckle. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The illustrative embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the present invention. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a first embodiment of the steering mechanism according to the present invention is shown;

[0019] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of a first embodiment of the steering knuckle according to the present invention is shown;

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the steering tie rod according to the present invention is shown;

[0021] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a second embodiment of the steering knuckle according to the present invention is shown;

[0022] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the steering knuckle according to the present invention is shown;

[0023] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the steering mechanism according to the present invention is shown.

[0024] The above figures include the following reference numerals:

[0025] 1. Steering tie rod; 10. Connecting rod segment; 11. Variable diameter structure; 111. Tapered structure; 12. Connecting key; 121. Spline; 13. Missing tooth; 14. Threaded structure;

[0026] 2. Steering knuckle; 21. Steering knuckle body; 22. Connecting component; 200. Connecting structure; 201. Open end; 202. Variable diameter fit structure; 203. Keyway; 204. Missing tooth fit structure; 220. Accommodation space;

[0027] 3. Tighten the nut. Detailed Implementation

[0028] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0029] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0030] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such terms can be used interchangeably where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0031] Exemplary embodiments according to this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application is thorough and complete, and that the concept of these exemplary embodiments is fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, for clarity, the thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated, and the same reference numerals are used to denote the same devices, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0032] Combination Figures 1 to 6 As shown, according to a specific embodiment of this application, a steering mechanism is provided.

[0033] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the steering mechanism includes a steering tie rod 1 and a steering knuckle 2. The steering tie rod 1 has a connecting rod segment 10 for assembling the steering tie rod 1. The steering knuckle 2 is provided with a connecting structure 200, which has an open end 201 facing the side where the steering tie rod 1 is located. At least a portion of the connecting rod segment 10 extends into the connecting structure 200. A first mating structure is provided on the outer peripheral surface of a portion of the connecting rod segment 10, and a second mating structure is provided on the connecting structure 200. The first mating structure is one of a connecting key 12 and a keyway 203, and the second mating structure is the other of a connecting key 12 and a keyway 203.

[0034] Applying the technical solution of this embodiment, the connecting rod segment 10 of the steering tie rod 1 extends into the connecting structure 200 of the steering knuckle 2. By setting a connecting key 12 and a keyway 203 on the connecting rod segment 10 and the connecting structure 200 respectively, the cooperation between the connecting key 12 and the keyway 203 can realize a stable connection between the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2, ensuring the effective transmission of torque, while improving the overall stability and reliability of the steering mechanism, and reducing the safety hazards caused by the failure of the connection between the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2.

[0035] In one embodiment of this application, when the steering mechanism is used or installed, the steering tie rod 1 is inserted into the steering knuckle 2. A connecting key 12 or a keyway 203 is provided on the outer surface of the connecting rod segment 10, and a keyway 203 or a connecting key 12 matching the outer surface of the connecting rod segment 10 is provided on the inner surface of the connecting structure 200. The connecting key 12 and the keyway 203 are aligned and engaged. The end of the steering tie rod 1 away from the opening end 201 protrudes from the steering knuckle 2 and is provided with a threaded structure 14. The end of the connecting structure 200 away from the opening end 201 engages with the threaded structure 14 through a locking nut 3, thereby fixing the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2 together, thus completing the connection between the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2.

[0036] Specifically, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, at least a portion of the connecting rod segment 10 is configured as a variable diameter structure 11. The inner wall of the connecting structure 200 is provided with a variable diameter fitting structure 202 that mates with the variable diameter structure 11 in both radial and axial directions. The variable diameter structure 11 has a first outer diameter near the opening end 201 and a second outer diameter away from the opening end 201, wherein the first outer diameter is larger than the second outer diameter. Utilizing the variable diameter principle of the variable diameter structure 11 and the variable diameter fitting structure 202, axial movement is prevented by the diameter change, while torque is transmitted through the fit at the diameter change point, achieving axial positioning and enhancing connection strength. This makes the connection between the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2 more stable, capable of withstanding greater axial force, and improves the overall performance of the steering structure.

[0037] Optionally, the variable diameter structure 11 includes one or a combination of a tapered structure 111, a stepped structure, or both. When the variable diameter structure 11 is set as a tapered structure 111, axial positioning and torque transmission can be achieved by the fit between the tapered shape of the connecting rod segment 10 and the tapered hole of the connecting structure 200. When the variable diameter structure 11 is set as a stepped structure, and the connecting structure 200 is designed with a corresponding stepped hole, multiple positioning in both axial and radial directions can be achieved.

[0038] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the connecting rod segment 10 may be provided with multiple stepped structures of different diameters, and the connecting structure 200 is provided with matching multi-level stepped holes to further improve the axial positioning efficiency of the connecting rod segment 10.

[0039] In one embodiment of this application, the variable diameter structure 11 is provided with both a tapered structure 111 and a stepped structure. The combination of the tapered structure 111 and the stepped structure can improve the axial positioning efficiency of the connecting rod segment 10 and effectively transmit torque.

[0040] Optionally, the connecting key 12 includes one or a combination of spline 121, flat key, and parallel key. Spline 121 and parallel key can provide different torque transmission methods. Spline 121 is suitable for applications requiring the transmission of larger torques, while parallel key is suitable for applications requiring smaller torques but simple and reliable connections. The steering mechanism can select the most suitable torque transmission method according to the vehicle's usage requirements, thereby improving the efficiency and lifespan of the steering system.

[0041] In one embodiment of this application, the connecting key 12 is provided with both a spline 121 structure and a flat key structure. Different torque transmission methods can be provided as needed through the spline 121 and flat key, while ensuring the stability of large torque transmission and also realizing the precise transmission of small torque.

[0042] Optionally, the connecting rod segment 10 and the connecting structure 200 can also be connected by means of pin fitting, interference fit, threaded fit, etc. Preferably, the connecting rod segment 10 and the connecting structure 200 are connected by a spline 121, a flat key, and a keyway 203. The spline 121 or flat key fit can ensure accurate radial and circumferential positioning, while ensuring that the torque transmission capacity meets the vehicle's requirements.

[0043] Specifically, such as Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 As shown, the connecting key 12 includes a spline 121. One of the connecting rod segment 10 and the connecting structure 200 is provided with the spline 121, and the spline 121 has at least one missing tooth 13. The other of the connecting rod segment 10 and the connecting structure 200 is provided with a missing tooth mating structure 204 that mates with the missing tooth 13. The mating of the missing tooth 13 and the missing tooth mating structure 204 enables circumferential positioning, ensuring that the relative positions of the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2 are fixed in the circumferential direction. This avoids uneven torque transmission caused by positional offset, making the circumferential positioning of the steering mechanism more accurate and improving the responsiveness and handling of the steering structure.

[0044] Specifically, the notched teeth 13 extend along the extension direction of the connecting rod segment 10. Multiple notched teeth 13 are spaced apart circumferentially along the connecting rod segment 10. A notched tooth mating structure 204 is provided on the connecting structure 200 corresponding to the notched teeth 13. When the notched tooth mating structure 204 mates with the notched teeth 13, it fills the gap between adjacent notched teeth 13, thereby forming a keyway 203 that mates with the spline 121. That is, the spline 121, through the mating of the notched teeth 13 with the notched tooth mating structure 204 on the connecting structure 200, improves the stability of the connection between the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2, while also facilitating torque transmission.

[0045] In one embodiment of this application, the variable diameter structure 11 includes a tapered structure 111, and the connecting key 12 includes a spline 121. The spline 121 is disposed on the connecting rod segment 10 in the axial direction of the steering tie rod 1. The spline 121 is disposed adjacent to the tapered structure 111, with the tapered structure 111 positioned close to the open end 201. The spline 121 is located on the side of the tapered structure 111 away from the open end 201. The tapered structure 111 is used for axial positioning by the variable diameter structure 11. When the steering tie rod 1 is inserted into the connecting structure 200, the tapered structure 111 contacts and weds into the tapered mating surface inside the connecting structure 200, thereby achieving axial positioning and preventing axial movement of the tie rod. The spline 121 is used for torque transmission. The combination of the two enables a stable connection and efficient force transmission. The combination of the tapered structure 111 and the spline 121, along with the missing tooth 13 on the spline, forms an integrated connection system that ensures both axial stability and efficient torque transmission and precise circumferential positioning. This significantly enhances the connection strength and torque transmission capability of the steering mechanism, thereby improving the vehicle's handling stability and safety.

[0046] Furthermore, both the steering tie rod 1 and the steering knuckle 2 are made of steel. Steel has high strength and wear resistance, and can withstand greater forces and wear, making it suitable for the high strength requirements of steering mechanisms. This enhances the durability and reliability of the steering mechanism and extends the service life of the vehicle.

[0047] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5As shown, the steering knuckle 2 includes a steering knuckle body 21 and a connecting member 22. The steering knuckle body 21 has a receiving space 220 for accommodating the connecting member 22. The connecting member 22 is located within the receiving space 220 and connected to the steering knuckle body 21. The connecting member 22 is provided with a connecting structure 200. The steering knuckle body 21 is used to connect the wheel and the vehicle chassis. The connecting structure 200 on the connecting member 22 is responsible for docking with the steering tie rod 1. The independence and replaceability of the connecting member 22 allow manufacturers to flexibly select or adjust according to different vehicle models or configurations during production, and also make maintenance or replacement more convenient and quick. The steering knuckle body 21 and the connecting member 22 are processed separately, which helps to improve processing accuracy and quality control. By combining the connecting member 22 with the steering knuckle body 21, lightweight design and rational use of different materials can be achieved, while maintaining the strength and stability of the steering mechanism, reducing the weight of the steering mechanism, and improving the vehicle's fuel efficiency and handling performance.

[0048] Specifically, the steering knuckle body 21 is made of aluminum, while the connecting part 22 and the steering tie rod 1 are made of steel. Aluminum has excellent lightweight properties, while steel has high strength and wear resistance. Through reasonable combination, the lightweight of the steering mechanism is ensured, while its strength and durability are also guaranteed, thus optimizing the overall performance of the steering mechanism and improving the overall performance of the vehicle.

[0049] Furthermore, the steering tie rod 1 is connected to the motor output shaft, or the steering tie rod 1 and the motor output shaft are integrally formed. In one embodiment of this application, connecting the steering tie rod 1 to the motor output shaft allows for independent selection and replacement of the motor and the steering tie rod 1, facilitating maintenance. Simultaneously, the connection allows for adjustment of the relative position of the steering tie rod 1 and the motor output shaft during assembly, ensuring torque transmission efficiency.

[0050] In another embodiment of this application, the motor output shaft and the steering tie rod 1 are integrally formed. In this case, the steering tie rod 1 is part of the motor output shaft, which improves the overall strength and rigidity, avoids torque transmission loss caused by loose connection or wear, and also reduces possible failure points.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the connecting rod segment 10 includes a tapered structure 111, a spline 121 is provided on the connecting rod segment 10, and a variable diameter fitting structure 202 that mates with the tapered structure 111 and a keyway 203 that mates with the spline 121 are provided on the connecting structure 200. Preferably, the spline 121 has at least one missing tooth 13, which matches the missing tooth fitting structure 204 provided on the connecting structure 200. The spline 121 can achieve circumferential positioning of the connecting rod segment 10 through the missing tooth 13. By using the spline 121 and the keyway 203, the connecting rod segment 10 can be stably connected to the steering knuckle 2 while transmitting a large torque. The tapered structure 111 mates with the variable diameter fitting structure 202 of the steering knuckle to achieve axial positioning of the steering tie rod 1. That is, by using the tapered structure 111, spline 121, and missing tooth 13 of the connecting rod segment 10, the steering tie rod 1 and steering knuckle 2 are connected stably, and the functions of torque transmission, circumferential positioning and axial positioning are integrated into one.

[0052] According to another specific embodiment of this application, a vehicle is also provided, the vehicle having a steering mechanism, which is the steering mechanism described in the above embodiments. Applying the steering mechanism described in the above embodiments to a vehicle achieves more stable, more efficient, and lighter steering performance, thereby improving vehicle handling and fuel efficiency, and enhancing driving experience and safety.

[0053] As can be seen from the above description, the embodiments of this utility model achieve the following technical effects: Through the structure of taper + spline + missing teeth, the functions of torque transmission and circumferential positioning are realized. This solves the problems of conventional impact systems and specialized ball pin structures that can only achieve axial positioning, or drive shafts and steering knuckles that only use spline structures, which only serve the purpose of transmitting large torques.

[0054] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0055] In addition to the above, it should be noted that the terms "one embodiment," "another embodiment," and "embodiment" used in this specification refer to specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment, which are included in at least one embodiment described in the general description of this application. The appearance of the same expression in multiple places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with any embodiment, the intention is to suggest that implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments also falls within the scope of this utility model.

[0056] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0057] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the utility model. Various modifications and variations can be made to this utility model by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A steering mechanism, characterized in that, include: A steering tie rod (1) having a connecting rod segment (10) for assembling the steering tie rod (1); Steering knuckle (2), on which a connecting structure (200) is provided, the connecting structure (200) having an open end (201) facing the side where the steering tie rod (1) is located, and at least a portion of the connecting rod segment (10) extends into the connecting structure (200); The outer peripheral surface of a portion of the connecting rod segment (10) is provided with a first mating structure, and the connecting structure (200) is provided with a second mating structure. The first mating structure is one of a connecting key (12) and a keyway (203), and the second mating structure is another of the connecting key (12) and the keyway (203).

2. The steering mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the connecting rod segment (10) is configured as a variable diameter structure (11). The inner wall of the connecting structure (200) is provided with a variable diameter fitting structure (202) that mates with the variable diameter structure (11) in the radial and axial directions. The variable diameter structure (11) has a first outer diameter near the opening end (201) and a second outer diameter away from the opening end (201), wherein the first outer diameter is larger than the second outer diameter.

3. The steering mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The variable diameter structure (11) includes one or a combination of a tapered structure (111) and a stepped structure.

4. The steering mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting key (12) includes one or a combination of spline (121), flat key, or both.

5. The steering mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting key (12) includes the spline (121), one of the connecting rod segment (10) and the connecting structure (200) is provided with the spline (121), and the spline (121) has at least one missing tooth (13), and the other of the connecting rod segment (10) and the connecting structure (200) is provided with a missing tooth mating structure (204) that mates with the missing tooth (13).

6. The steering mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The variable diameter structure (11) includes a tapered structure (111), and the connecting key (12) includes a spline (121). The spline (121) is disposed on the connecting rod segment (10) in the axial direction of the steering tie rod (1). The spline (121) is disposed adjacent to the tapered structure (111), and the tapered structure (111) is disposed close to the opening end (201). The spline (121) is located on the side of the tapered structure (111) away from the opening end (201).

7. The steering mechanism according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Both the steering tie rod (1) and the steering knuckle (2) are made of steel.

8. The steering mechanism according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The steering knuckle (2) includes a steering knuckle body (21) and a connector (22). The steering knuckle body (21) has a receiving space (220) for accommodating the connector (22). The connector (22) is located in the receiving space (220) and connected to the steering knuckle body (21). The connector (22) is provided with the connecting structure (200).

9. The steering mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The steering knuckle body (21) is made of aluminum, while the connector (22) and the steering tie rod (1) are both made of steel.

10. The steering mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering tie rod (1) is connected to the motor output shaft, or the steering tie rod (1) and the motor output shaft are integrally formed.

11. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle has a steering mechanism, which is the steering mechanism according to any one of claims 1-10.

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