Locking mechanism for a clock spring and vehicle steering assembly

Abstract

The application discloses a locking mechanism of a clock spring and a vehicle steering assembly, comprising: a stator assembly provided with a locking groove; a rotor assembly coaxially arranged with the stator assembly and connected in a circumferential relative rotation with the stator assembly as the center, the locking groove extending along the circumference of the stator assembly, the stator assembly and the rotor assembly being provided with a containing space extending along the axial direction at the center; a spring piece comprising a fixed part connected to the rotor assembly and a free part connected to a locking pin, the fixed part and the free part being connected to the rotor assembly and the locking pin respectively and arranged at an obtuse angle between the fixed part and the free part; and the locking pin being pivotally connected to the rotor assembly; the locking pin being configured to extend into the locking groove under the elastic force of the free part of the spring piece or to be separated from the locking groove under the action of an external force; the structure is effectively simplified, the installation is facilitated, the structure is more compact, and the occupied space is small.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of automotive manufacturing technology, and in particular to a clock spring locking mechanism and a vehicle steering assembly. Background Technology

[0002] The clock spring is a spring (electrical signal rotary connector) in the automotive airbag system. It is a highly reliable circuit connection device between two relatively rotating parts. It is used to connect the switching circuits of the horn button, the multi-function switch button on the steering wheel, the main airbag and the body control unit. The clock spring is generally installed below the steering wheel assembly, above the combination switch or the steering column tray.

[0003] A clock spring typically consists of a stator and a rotor, with a cavity at their joint to house the cable. During normal use after the steering wheel is installed, the rotor rotates synchronously with the steering wheel, ensuring proper electrical connection between the airbag, horn switch, and other electrical components and the vehicle. However, when the steering wheel is removed, such as during clock spring transportation or maintenance, a positioning mechanism is required to lock the relative rotation of the clock spring's stator and rotor, limiting its rotation to a preset small angle range to prevent accidental operation.

[0004] Existing clock springs require relatively complex structures to lock, which is costly. These complex structures also have a relatively high failure rate and occupy a large amount of internal space. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides a clock spring locking mechanism and a vehicle steering assembly, which simplifies the structure, reduces costs, has high reliability, and is more compact.

[0006] A locking mechanism for a clock spring, comprising: The stator assembly has a locking groove; The rotor assembly is coaxially arranged with the stator assembly and forms a circumferential relative rotational connection centered on the axial direction. The locking groove extends circumferentially along the stator assembly, and an axially extending accommodating space is provided at the center of the stator assembly and the rotor assembly. A spring clip, comprising a fixed portion and a free portion, wherein the fixed portion is connected to the rotor assembly, and the fixed portion and the free portion are disposed at an obtuse angle; and A locking pin, pivotally connected to the rotor assembly, is configured to rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking pin includes a locking portion and a force-receiving portion, with a free portion connected to the force-receiving portion. In the locked position, the force-receiving portion is driven by the elastic force of a spring sheet to move closer to the receiving space, and the locking portion extends into the locking groove. In the unlocked position, the force-receiving portion is driven by an external force to move away from the receiving space, and the locking portion disengages from the locking groove.

[0007] In some embodiments, in the circumferential direction of rotation of the rotor assembly, the distance between the two opposing walls of the locking groove is greater than the corresponding size of the locking pin. When the locking pin extends into the locking groove, the maximum rotational stroke of the rotor assembly relative to the stator assembly corresponds to the locking pin abutting against one of the two walls.

[0008] In some embodiments, the locking groove has an opening for a locking pin to extend into or disengage, the opening being oriented toward the center of the stator assembly.

[0009] In some embodiments, one end of the locking pin extends toward the locking groove to form the locking portion, and the other end forms the force-receiving portion. The pivot point between the locking pin and the rotor assembly is located between the locking portion and the force-receiving portion. Under the action of an external force, the force-receiving portion swings away from the center of the rotor assembly, causing the locking portion to swing closer to the center of the rotor assembly to disengage from the locking groove.

[0010] In some embodiments, the locking groove has an opening for the locking pin to extend into or disengage, the opening being disposed away from the center of the stator assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments, one end of the locking pin extends toward the locking groove to form the locking portion, and the middle part forms the force-receiving portion. The pivot point between the locking pin and the rotor assembly is located on the side of the force-receiving portion away from the locking portion. Under the action of external force, the force-receiving portion swings along the center away from the rotor assembly, causing the locking portion to swing along the center away from the rotor assembly to disengage from the locking groove.

[0012] In some embodiments, the stator assembly is provided with a clearance ring groove for the locking part to rotate relative to the stator assembly after disengaging from the locking groove. The clearance ring groove is configured as an annular groove coaxial with the stator assembly and communicates with the opening of the locking groove.

[0013] In some embodiments, the rotor assembly is provided with a first clearance groove for the locking portion of the locking pin to swing, the first clearance groove being disposed radially through the rotor assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the force-bearing portion of the locking pin is configured as a protrusion near the accommodating space, the protrusion having a first inclined surface, the first inclined surface being disposed away from the locking portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the protrusion is further provided with a second inclined surface, which faces the locking portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the rotor assembly includes a first rotor housing and a second rotor housing disposed along an axial direction, and at least a portion of the stator assembly is located between the first rotor housing and the second rotor housing.

[0017] In some embodiments, the spring is fixedly connected to the rotor assembly via a fixing part.

[0018] In some embodiments, the spring is detachably connected to the rotor assembly via a fixing part.

[0019] In some embodiments, the rotor assembly is provided with a slot, and the fixing part of the spring is slidably disposed in the slot; a slot is provided on the wall of the slot, and a tongue is provided at an angle on the fixing part, the tongue abutting against the wall of the slot.

[0020] In some embodiments, the free portion of the spring is connected to the force-bearing portion on the side opposite to the center of the rotor assembly.

[0021] In some embodiments, the free portion of the spring is fixedly connected to the locking pin, or, The free part is elastically engaged with the locking pin.

[0022] A vehicle steering assembly including a locking mechanism for the clock spring as described above.

[0023] This application uses a spring to apply elastic force to the locking pin, keeping it inserted into the locking groove, thereby locking the rotor assembly relative to the stator assembly and preventing misoperation. When installing the steering wheel assembly, the spring force can be overcome to allow the locking pin to disengage from the locking groove, thus unlocking the assembly. This is convenient and reliable, and it can perform multiple repeated locking and unlocking operations, meeting practical usage needs.

[0024] This application uses a locking mechanism consisting of a locking pin and a spring plate installed on the rotor assembly. Combined with the opening of a locking groove on the stator assembly, the clock spring is locked, which effectively simplifies the structure, reduces costs, facilitates installation, has high reliability, and has a more compact structure with less space occupation. By setting the distance between the relative walls of the locking groove to be greater than the corresponding size of the locking pin, the rotor assembly can rotate relative to the stator assembly within a preset angle within the distance limit between the relative walls of the locking groove when the locking pin is inserted into the locking groove, thus achieving rotation restriction within a small angle range. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation of the spring sheet on the rotor assembly in one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the spring and the locking pin in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the rotor assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle.

[0031] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of another embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Stator assembly; 2. Rotor assembly; 3. Spring; 4. Locking pin; 11. First stator housing; 12. Second stator housing; 101. Locking groove; 102. Clearance ring groove; 111. Bottom housing; 1011. Opening; 21. First rotor housing; 22. Second rotor housing; 23. Third rotor housing; 210. First clearance groove; 211. End face ring part one; 212. Axial ring part one; 221. End face ring part two; 222. Axial ring part two; 2221. Slot; 2222. Pin seat; 2223. Opening two; 2224. Opening one; 2225. Bayonet; 2226. Limiting body; 231. Second clearance groove; 232. Limiting part; 31. Tongue; 32. Fixed part; 33. Free part; 331. Bending part; 41. Pin body; 42. Shaft portion; 411. Protrusion; 412. First inclined surface; 413. Second inclined surface; 5. Storage space. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0034] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0035] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0036] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0037] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0038] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0039] The following is a locking mechanism for a clock spring according to an embodiment of this application, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, it includes: Stator assembly 1 has a locking groove 101; The rotor assembly 2 is coaxially arranged with the stator assembly 1 and forms a circumferential relative rotational connection centered on the axial direction. The locking groove 101 extends circumferentially along the stator assembly 1. An axially extending accommodating space 5 is provided at the center of the stator assembly 1 and the rotor assembly 2. The spring clip 3 includes a fixed part 32 and a free part 33. The fixed part 32 is connected to the rotor assembly 2, and the free part 33 is connected to the locking pin 4. The fixed part 32 and the free part 33 are set at an obtuse angle. The locking pin 4 is pivotally connected to the rotor assembly 2 and is configured to rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking pin 4 includes a locking part and a force-receiving part, and a free part 33 is connected to the force-receiving part. In the locked position, the force-receiving part is driven by the elastic force of the spring 3 to move to the side closer to the receiving space 5, and the locking part extends into the locking groove 101. In the unlocked position, the force-receiving part is driven by an external force to move to the side away from the receiving space 5, and the locking part disengages from the locking groove 101.

[0040] In this embodiment, the spring 3 applies an elastic force to the locking pin 4, causing it to extend into the locking groove 101. At this time, the locking pin 4 is in the locked position, realizing the locking of the rotor assembly 2 relative to the stator assembly 1 and avoiding misoperation. When subjected to external force, such as when the external steering wheel assembly is installed, the elastic force of the spring 3 is overcome, causing the locking pin 4 to disengage from the locking groove 101 to achieve unlocking. At this time, the locking pin 4 is in the unlocked position.

[0041] In this embodiment, when the locking pin 4 and the locking groove 101 are in the unlocked state, the rotor assembly 2 can rotate relative to the stator assembly 1 within a 360° range; when the locking pin 4 and the locking groove 101 are in the locked state, the rotation of the rotor assembly 2 relative to the stator assembly 1 is locked, and it cannot rotate relative to the stator assembly 1 within a 360° range, but can only rotate relative to the stator assembly 1 within the range of the central angle corresponding to the locking groove 101.

[0042] In this embodiment, the locking mechanism is formed by the locking pin 4 and the spring piece 3 installed on the rotor assembly 2. Combined with the opening of the locking groove 101 on the stator assembly 1, the clock spring is locked, which effectively simplifies the structure, facilitates installation, and makes the structure more compact and occupies less space.

[0043] In the circumferential direction of rotation of rotor assembly 2, the distance between the two opposing walls of locking groove 101 is greater than the corresponding dimension of locking pin 4, for example... Figure 2 The dimension of the locking groove 101 in the arc direction is larger than the width dimension corresponding to the locking pin 4; when the locking pin 4 extends into the locking groove 101, the maximum rotational stroke of the rotor assembly 2 relative to the stator assembly 1 corresponds to the locking pin 4 abutting against one of the two walls. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown, when the rotor assembly 2 rotates clockwise relative to the stator assembly 1 until it can no longer rotate, the locking pin 4 abuts against the right side wall of the locking groove 101; when the rotor assembly 2 rotates counterclockwise relative to the stator assembly 1 until it can no longer rotate, the locking pin 4 abuts against the left side wall of the locking groove 101.

[0044] In this embodiment, by setting the distance between the two opposing walls of the locking groove 101 to be greater than the corresponding size of the locking pin 4, the rotor assembly 2 can rotate relative to the stator assembly 1 within a preset angle within the distance limit between the opposing walls of the locking groove 101 when the locking pin 4 is inserted into the locking groove 101, thereby achieving rotation restriction within a small angle range.

[0045] In practical use, the small angle range that can be rotated in the locked state can be set by setting the distance between the locking groove 101 and the two walls and the corresponding size of the locking pin 4. The preset angle that limits the rotation is the range of the central angle corresponding to the arc-shaped locking groove 101.

[0046] In one embodiment, for example Figure 2 As shown, the locking groove 101 has an opening 1011A for the locking pin 4 to extend into or disengage, and the opening 1011A is disposed facing the center of the stator assembly 1.

[0047] In this embodiment, the opening 1011A of the locking groove 101 is arranged radially inward along the stator assembly 1. During the rotation of the locking pin 4 from the locked position to the unlocked position, the end of the locking pin 4 swings radially inward along the stator assembly 1. During the rotation of the locking pin 4 from the unlocked position to the locked position, the end of the locking pin 4 swings radially outward along the stator assembly 1.

[0048] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, one end of the locking pin 4 extends toward the locking groove 101 to form a locking part, and the other end forms a force-receiving part. The pivot point between the locking pin 4 and the rotor assembly 2 is located between the locking part and the force-receiving part. Under the action of external force, the force-receiving part swings away from the center of the rotor assembly 2, causing the locking part to swing closer to the center of the rotor assembly 2 to disengage from the locking groove 101. When the action of external force disappears, the force-receiving part is driven by the elastic force of the free part 33 of the spring piece 3 to swing in the direction close to the center of the rotor assembly 2, causing the locking part to swing away from the center of the rotor assembly 2 to extend into the locking groove 101.

[0049] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the pivot can be located in the middle of the locking pin 4 between the locking part and the force-bearing part. The locking pin 4 can swing relative to the rotor assembly 2 with the pivot as the center. When no external force is applied and only the elastic force of the spring piece 3 is applied, the locking pin 4 will swing towards the locking groove 101 with the central pivot as the center and remain in the locked state. When an external force is applied to overcome the elastic force of the spring piece 3, the locking pin 4 will swing in the opposite direction with the central pivot as the center and disengage from the locking groove 101.

[0050] In another embodiment, for example Figure 8 As shown, the locking groove 101 has an opening 1011B for the locking pin 4 to extend into or disengage, and the opening 1011B is disposed away from the center of the stator assembly 1.

[0051] In this embodiment, the opening 1011B of the locking groove 101 is arranged radially outward along the stator assembly 1. During the rotation of the locking pin 4 from the locked position to the unlocked position, the end of the locking pin 4 swings radially outward along the rotor assembly 2. During the rotation of the locking pin 4 from the unlocked position to the locked position, the end of the locking pin 4 swings radially inward along the rotor assembly 2.

[0052] exist Figure 8In the embodiment shown, one end of the locking pin 4 extends toward the locking groove 101 to form a locking part, and the middle part forms a force-receiving part. The pivot point between the locking pin 4 and the rotor assembly 2 is located on the side of the force-receiving part away from the locking part. Under the action of external force, the force-receiving part swings along the center away from the rotor assembly 2, causing the locking part to swing along the center away from the rotor assembly 2 to disengage from the locking groove 101. When the action of external force disappears, the force-receiving part is driven by the elastic force of the free part 33 of the spring piece 3 to swing along the direction close to the center of the rotor assembly 2, causing the locking part to swing along the direction close to the center of the rotor assembly 2 to extend into the locking groove 101.

[0053] In this embodiment, as Figure 8 As shown, the pivot can be set at one end of the locking pin 4, the locking part is set at the other end, and the force-bearing part is located between the pivot and the locking part. The locking pin 4 can swing relative to the rotor assembly 2 with the pivot as the center: when no external force is applied and only the elastic force of the spring piece 3 is applied, the locking pin 4 will swing towards the locking groove 101 with the end pivot as the center and remain in the locked state. When an external force overcomes the elastic force of the spring piece 3, the locking pin 4 will swing in the opposite direction with the end pivot as the center and disengage from the locking groove 101.

[0054] exist Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, the stator assembly 1 is provided with a clearance ring groove 102 for the locking part to rotate relative to the stator assembly 1 after disengaging from the locking groove 101. The clearance ring groove 102 is configured as an annular groove coaxial with the stator assembly 1, and the clearance ring groove 102 communicates with the opening 1011B of the locking groove 101.

[0055] In this embodiment, as Figure 8 As shown, the clearance ring groove 102 is located radially outward, directly opposite the opening 1011B of the locking groove 101. When the locking pin 4 is subjected to force that overcomes the elastic force of the spring piece 3 and swings away from the locking groove 101, the locking part of the locking pin 4 disengages from the locking groove 101 and is located in the clearance ring groove 102. When the rotor assembly 2 rotates relative to the stator assembly 1 within a 360° range, the locking pin 4 can move freely and unrestricted along the clearance ring groove 102.

[0056] The locking pin 4 includes a pin body 41, and the force-bearing part is a protrusion 411 on the side of the pin body 41 near the receiving space 5. The protrusion 411 is provided with a first inclined surface 412, which is disposed away from the locking part. Figure 5 As shown.

[0057] In this embodiment, the protrusion 411 ensures that force can be effectively applied to the upper part of the locking pin 4 during the installation of the steering wheel assembly, thereby pushing the locking pin 4 to swing; the first inclined surface 412 ensures that the steering wheel assembly can smoothly and easily contact and apply force to the locking pin 4 during the installation process.

[0058] The protrusion 411 is also provided with a second inclined surface 413, which faces the locking part.

[0059] In this embodiment, the second inclined surface 413 is located in the direction away from the first inclined surface 412 of the protrusion 411. The setting of the second inclined surface 413 guides the removal of the steering wheel assembly, thereby realizing and ensuring the smooth and successful removal of the steering wheel assembly from the accommodating space 5.

[0060] The rotor assembly 2 is provided with a first clearance groove 210 for the locking part of the locking pin 4 to swing, and the first clearance groove 210 is provided to penetrate the rotor assembly 2 radially.

[0061] In this embodiment, the setting of the first clearance groove 210 on the rotor assembly 2 effectively realizes and ensures that the locking pin 4 moves toward or away from the locking groove 101 on the stator assembly 1 via the first clearance groove 210.

[0062] The rotor assembly 2 includes a first rotor housing 21 and a second rotor housing 22 arranged along the axial direction, and at least a portion of the stator assembly 1 is located between the first rotor housing 21 and the second rotor housing 22.

[0063] In this embodiment, as Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the rotor assembly 2 includes a first rotor housing 21 and a second rotor housing 22 coaxially fitted and fixedly mounted. The axial ring portion 212 of the first rotor housing 21 is located inside the axial ring portion 222 of the second rotor housing 22. The end of the axial ring portion 212 extending outward from the axial ring portion 222 is bent radially outward to form an end face ring portion 211. The end of the axial ring portion 222 retracted into the axial ring portion 212 is bent radially outward to form an end face ring portion 221. The end face ring portion 211 and the end face ring portion 221 are spaced apart in the axial direction. The inner edge of the bottom shell portion 111 of the stator assembly 1 extends into the gap. The locking groove 101 is opened on the bottom shell portion 111.

[0064] In this embodiment, the rotor assembly 2 adopts a split structure in which the first rotor housing 21 and the second rotor housing 22 are fitted together. The bottom shell portion 111 of the stator assembly 1 extends between the second end ring portion 221 of the first rotor housing 21 and the first end ring portion 211 of the second rotor housing 22, which helps to ensure the reliability of the rotation of the rotor assembly 2 relative to the stator assembly 1. The locking groove 101 is opened on the bottom shell portion 111 near the rotor assembly 2, which helps to reduce the locking distance, ensure timely and reliable locking and unlocking, and at the same time help to simplify the structure and reduce the space occupied by the locking mechanism.

[0065] exist Figure 3In the illustrated embodiment, the stator assembly 1 may consist of a first stator housing 11 and a second stator housing 12. The first stator housing 11 includes a bottom shell portion 111 and a circumferential surrounding wall, and the second stator housing 12 is mounted on the circumferential surrounding wall of the first stator housing 11. The bottom shell portion 111 has an annular plate structure, and a locking groove 101 provides an opening 1011 for the locking pin 4 to extend into and abut against. Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, it is radially inward or outward along the bottom shell portion 111.

[0066] In this embodiment, the locking pin 4 is pivotally mounted on the inner wall of the outer axial ring portion 222. The inner axial ring portion 212 is provided with a first clearance groove 210 for the locking pin 4 to be installed and swing, so as to ensure that the locking pin 4 swings smoothly and easily when locking and unlocking.

[0067] like Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, an opening 2224 is provided on the inner wall of the second axial ring 222. A pin seat 2222 is formed at the opposite wall of the opening 2224. An opening 2223 is provided on the opposite wall of the adjacent pin seats 2222. The shaft portions 42 on both sides of the locking pin 4 pass through the opening 2223 and are fitted into the corresponding pin seats 2222. The locking pin 4 is pivotally connected to the opening 2224, which realizes the reliable installation of the locking pin 4 on the second axial ring 222 via the shaft portions 42 on both sides. The structure is simple and the installation and operation are convenient. A third rotor housing 23 is fitted at the end of the axial ring portion 222 away from the first rotor housing 21. The end opening of the pin seat 2222 facing the third rotor housing 23 facilitates the insertion of the shaft portion 42. The third rotor housing 23 extends a limiting portion 232 toward the opening of the pin seat 2222. While the third rotor housing 23 is fitted onto the second rotor housing 22, the limiting portion 232 extends into the pin seat 2222 to restrict the shaft portion 42 of the locking pin 4, effectively ensuring the installation reliability of the locking pin 4 on the axial ring portion 222.

[0068] In this embodiment, the axial fitting between the second rotor housing 22 and the first rotor housing 21, and the installation between the second rotor housing 22 and the third rotor housing 23 in the rotor assembly 2, can adopt conventional installation methods, such as a snap-lock fitting structure. After installation, axial and circumferential positioning can be achieved, so that they together constitute the rotor assembly 2 and rotate synchronously.

[0069] In this embodiment, a space for the locking pin 4 to be installed and swing can be provided on the rotor assembly 2, such as the opening 2224 on the axial ring portion 222 of the second rotor housing 22. Alternatively, a second clearance groove 231 can be provided on the third rotor housing 23 in the extension direction of the opening 2224, according to actual needs, so as to ensure that the locking pin 4 swings smoothly and reliably relative to the rotor assembly 2.

[0070] In one embodiment, the spring 3 is fixedly connected to the rotor assembly 2 via the fixing part 32, including but not limited to one or more of the following methods: integral injection molding to form an integral structure or bonding, welding, screws, bolts, etc., thereby realizing the installation of the spring 3 on the rotor assembly 2.

[0071] In another embodiment, the spring piece 3 is detachably connected to the rotor assembly 2 via the fixing part 32, for example, it is detachably installed on the inner wall surface of the axial ring part 222 of the rotor assembly 2.

[0072] The rotor assembly 2 is provided with a slot 2221. For example, the slot 2221 is provided on the axial ring 222, and the fixing part 32 of the spring piece 3 is slidably provided in the slot 2221. A bayonet 2225 is provided on the wall of the slot 2221, and a tongue 31 is provided at an angle on the fixing part 32. The tongue 31 abuts against the wall of the bayonet 2225.

[0073] In this embodiment, the tongue 31 is essentially an elastic structure with elasticity. When the fixing part 32 of the spring piece 3 is inserted into the slot 2221, the tongue 31 is restricted by the slot 2221 and compressed toward the fixing part 32 until the fixing part 32 is inserted to a certain depth, so that the tongue 31 is facing the latch 2225 and the compression elasticity is released, and the tongue 31 is engaged with the latch 2225.

[0074] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the slot 2221 is set with the opening facing downward, and the spring piece 3 fixing part 32 is inserted into the slot 2221 from bottom to top until the tongue piece 31 is fitted into the bayonet 2225. For example, the tongue piece 31 is fitted into the bayonet 2225 with a downward and outward tilting structure.

[0075] exist Figure 8 In the embodiment shown, the slot 2221 is set with the opening facing upward, and the spring piece 3 fixing part 32 is inserted into the slot 2221 from top to bottom until the tongue piece 31 is fitted into the bayonet 2225. For example, the tongue piece 31 is fitted into the bayonet 2225 with an upward and outward tilting structure.

[0076] In this embodiment, when removing the spring piece 3 from the slot 2221, force needs to be applied to the tongue piece 31 to compress it toward the fixing part 32 and disengage it from the bayonet 2225, while force is applied to the spring piece 3 to move it out toward the opening of the slot 2221, thereby removing the spring piece 3 from the slot 2221.

[0077] In this embodiment, according to actual needs, a limiting body 2226 can be formed extending inward from the inner wall of the slot 2221 in the insertion direction of the spring piece 3 fixing part 32 into the slot 2221. The limiting body 2226 restricts the insertion depth of the spring piece 3 in the slot 2221. At the same time, while being restricted by the limiting body 2226, the tongue 31 of the spring piece 3 is engaged with the bayonet 2225, forming a bidirectional limiting of the spring piece 3 in the insertion direction of the rotor assembly 2, ensuring the reliability of the installation of the spring piece 3.

[0078] The free part 33 of the spring 3 is connected to the side of the force-bearing part facing away from the center of the rotor assembly 2.

[0079] In this embodiment, the locking pin 4 is in the locked position due to the elastic force of the free part 33 of the spring piece 3. At this time, the free part 33 applies an elastic force toward the center of the rotor assembly 2 to the locking pin 4, and the force-bearing part of the locking pin 4 moves closer to the receiving space 5. When subjected to an external force, such as when the external steering wheel assembly is installed from the receiving space 5, the locking pin 4 is driven to overcome the elastic force of the free part 33, and the force-bearing part moves away from the receiving space 5. In other words, the locking pin 4 switches between the locked state and the unlocked state under the action of the elastic force of the free part 33 of the spring piece 3 and the force-bearing part subjected to an external force.

[0080] In this embodiment, the free part 33 of the spring piece 3 and the force-bearing surface of the force-bearing part of the locking pin 4 are opposite to each other and located on the outer and inner sides of the locking pin 4.

[0081] In one embodiment, the free part 33 of the spring 3 is fixedly connected to the locking pin 4, including but not limited to one or more methods such as bonding, welding, screws, and bolts, so that the elastic force of the spring 3 can stably act on the locking pin 4, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking.

[0082] In another embodiment, the free portion 33 elastically abuts against the locking pin 4, such as... Figure 2 As shown in the image.

[0083] In this embodiment, the end of the free portion 33 of the spring piece 3 can extend away from the locking pin 4 to form a bent portion 331, in order to help ensure a stable and reliable contact between the free portion 33 and the locking pin 4.

[0084] The vehicle steering assembly of this embodiment includes a locking mechanism for the clock spring as described above.

[0085] This invention achieves the locking of the rotor assembly 2 in the clock spring relative to the stator assembly 1 when the locking pin 4 is not subjected to external force, thus avoiding misoperation. When the steering wheel assembly is installed and force is applied to the locking pin 4, the spring force of the spring piece 3 can be overcome, causing the locking pin 4 to disengage from the locking groove 101 and achieve unlocking. It is convenient and reliable, and in particular, it can realize multiple repeated locking and unlocking operations, meeting the actual use needs.

[0086] This utility model consists of a locking mechanism composed of a locking pin 4 and a spring 3 installed on the rotor assembly 2. Combined with the opening of the locking groove 101 on the stator assembly 1, the clock spring is locked, which effectively simplifies the structure, reduces costs, has high reliability, and is more compact and occupies less space.

[0087] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0088] The above description is an explanation of the present utility model and not a limitation thereof. The scope of the present utility model is defined by the claims. Within the protection scope of the present utility model, any form of modification may be made.

Claims

1. A locking mechanism for a clock spring, characterized in that, include: The stator assembly has a locking groove; The rotor assembly is coaxially arranged with the stator assembly and forms a circumferential relative rotational connection centered on the axial direction. The locking groove extends circumferentially along the stator assembly, and an axially extending accommodating space is provided at the center of the stator assembly and the rotor assembly. A spring clip, comprising a fixed portion and a free portion, wherein the fixed portion is connected to the rotor assembly, and the fixed portion and the free portion are disposed at an obtuse angle; and A locking pin, pivotally connected to the rotor assembly, is configured to rotate between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking pin includes a locking portion and a force-receiving portion, with a free portion connected to the force-receiving portion. In the locked position, the force-receiving portion is driven by the elastic force of a spring sheet to move closer to the receiving space, and the locking portion extends into the locking groove. In the unlocked position, the force-receiving portion is driven by an external force to move away from the receiving space, and the locking portion disengages from the locking groove.

2. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the circumferential direction of rotation of the rotor assembly, the distance between the two opposing walls of the locking groove is greater than the corresponding size of the locking pin. When the locking pin extends into the locking groove, the maximum rotational stroke of the rotor assembly relative to the stator assembly corresponds to the locking pin abutting against one of the two walls.

3. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking groove has an opening for the locking pin to extend into or disengage, and the opening is positioned facing the center of the stator assembly.

4. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 3, characterized in that, One end of the locking pin extends toward the locking groove to form the locking part, and the other end forms the force-receiving part. The pivot point between the locking pin and the rotor assembly is located between the locking part and the force-receiving part. Under the action of external force, the force-receiving part swings away from the center of the rotor assembly, causing the locking part to swing closer to the center of the rotor assembly to disengage from the locking groove.

5. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking groove has an opening for the locking pin to extend into or disengage, the opening being disposed away from the center of the stator assembly.

6. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 5, characterized in that, One end of the locking pin extends toward the locking groove to form the locking part, and the middle part forms the force-receiving part. The pivot point of the locking pin and the rotor assembly is located on the side of the force-receiving part away from the locking part. Under the action of external force, the force-receiving part swings along the center away from the rotor assembly, causing the locking part to swing along the center away from the rotor assembly to disengage from the locking groove.

7. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 5, characterized in that, The stator assembly is provided with a clearance ring groove for the locking part to rotate relative to the stator assembly after disengaging from the locking groove. The clearance ring groove is configured as an annular groove coaxial with the stator assembly and communicates with the opening of the locking groove.

8. A locking mechanism for a clock spring according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The rotor assembly is provided with a first clearance groove for the locking part of the locking pin to swing, and the first clearance groove is provided radially through the rotor assembly.

9. A locking mechanism for a clock spring according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The force-bearing part of the locking pin is configured as a protrusion near the accommodating space, and the protrusion is provided with a first inclined surface, which is disposed away from the locking part.

10. The locking mechanism of a clock spring according to claim 9, characterized in that, The protrusion is also provided with a second inclined surface, which faces the locking part.

11. A locking mechanism for a clock spring according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The rotor assembly includes a first rotor housing and a second rotor housing arranged axially, and at least a portion of the stator assembly is located between the first rotor housing and the second rotor housing.

12. A locking mechanism for a clock spring according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The spring sheet is fixedly connected to the rotor assembly via a fixing part.

13. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 12, characterized in that, The spring sheet is detachably connected to the rotor assembly via a fixing part.

14. The locking mechanism for a clock spring according to claim 13, characterized in that, The rotor assembly is provided with a slot, and the fixing part of the spring piece is slidably disposed in the slot; a slot is provided on the wall of the slot, and a tongue is provided at an angle on the fixing part, and the tongue abuts against the wall of the slot.

15. A locking mechanism for a clock spring according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The free portion of the spring is connected to the force-bearing portion on the side opposite to the center of the rotor assembly.

16. The locking mechanism of a clock spring according to claim 1, characterized in that, The free part of the spring is fixedly connected to the locking pin, or, The free part is elastically engaged with the locking pin.

17. A vehicle steering assembly, characterized in that: The locking mechanism includes the clock spring as described in any one of claims 1-16.

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