Steering column arrangement and steering wheel adjustment system

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of automobile parts, and provides a steering column device and a steering wheel adjusting system. The steering column device comprises a mounting bracket and a column assembly supported by the mounting bracket, and the column assembly comprises a plurality of pipe fittings which are sleeved and telescopic, wherein: a kinematic pair is arranged between one or more pipe fittings of the column assembly and the mounting bracket, and / or between the plurality of pipe fittings of the column assembly, each group of kinematic pairs is configured to keep contact in the telescopic process of the corresponding pipe fitting, wherein the corresponding pipe fitting is a pipe fitting which is assembled with a friction component of the kinematic pair. The application improves the dynamic stability of the column assembly in the telescopic adjusting process by arranging the kinematic pair between the one or more pipe fittings and the mounting bracket, and / or between the plurality of pipe fittings of the column assembly, ensures smooth telescopic adjustment, and further improves reliability and driving experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of automotive parts technology, and more specifically, to steering column assembly and steering wheel adjustment system. Background Technology

[0002] A steering column with telescopic adjustment allows drivers to easily adjust the steering wheel extension distance as needed, enhancing driving comfort and safety. However, in actual use, it has been found that the column is prone to vibration during telescopic adjustment, especially during long-stroke adjustments, where instability is exacerbated, seriously affecting adjustment reliability and driving experience.

[0003] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a steering column device and a steering wheel adjustment system. By setting up kinematic pairs, the dynamic stability of the column assembly during the extension and retraction adjustment process is improved, ensuring smooth extension and retraction adjustment, thereby enhancing reliability and driving experience.

[0005] According to one aspect of this application, a steering column device is provided, including a mounting bracket and a column assembly supported on the mounting bracket, the column assembly including a plurality of sleeved and telescopic tubes, wherein: a kinematic pair is provided between one or more tubes of the column assembly and the mounting bracket, and / or between the plurality of tubes of the column assembly, each set of the kinematic pairs being configured to remain in contact during the extension and retraction of a corresponding tube, wherein the corresponding tube is a tube on which a friction component of the kinematic pair is assembled.

[0006] By utilizing kinematic pairs disposed between one or more pipe fittings and mounting brackets, and / or kinematic pairs disposed between multiple pipe fittings, relative kinematic contact is maintained during the extension and retraction of the corresponding pipe fittings, providing continuous guidance and support, effectively suppressing radial sway and axial movement caused by gaps, significantly improving the dynamic stability of the pipe column assembly during the extension and retraction adjustment process, ensuring smooth extension and retraction adjustment, and thus improving reliability and driving experience.

[0007] In some embodiments, each set of kinematic pairs is configured to maintain sliding and / or rolling contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube.

[0008] By utilizing sliding and rolling contact, appropriate friction can be achieved and a certain load-bearing capacity can be provided, thereby ensuring that the corresponding pipe fittings remain stable and smooth during expansion and contraction.

[0009] In some embodiments, each set of the kinematic pairs is further configured to be in contact with each other in a static state.

[0010] In this way, the corresponding pipe fittings are provided with static support to resist vibrations during vehicle operation, thereby improving the stability of the pipe column assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments, the kinematic pairs disposed between a plurality of pipe fittings of the pipe assembly are located between adjacent pipe fittings of the pipe assembly.

[0012] This facilitates the installation of moving parts among multiple pipe fittings.

[0013] In some embodiments, the tubular assembly includes an outer tubing, a middle tubing, and an inner tubing that are sequentially sleeved and retractable, wherein the inner tubing, the middle tubing, and the outer tubing each comprise a single tubing or a plurality of retractable sub-tubings.

[0014] The inner and / or middle and / or outer fittings can be independent single-fitting structures or multi-level fitting structures containing multiple retractable sub-fittings.

[0015] In some embodiments, the kinematic pair includes one or more sets of first kinematic pairs disposed between the mounting bracket and the middle tube, and / or, the kinematic pair includes one or more sets of second kinematic pairs disposed between the middle tube and the outer tube, and / or, the kinematic pair includes one or more sets of third kinematic pairs disposed between the middle tube and the inner tube.

[0016] Setting up kinematic pairs between the central tube fitting and other fittings and / or mounting brackets can improve the stability of the central tube fitting during expansion and contraction, and increase the structural stiffness of the central tube fitting to improve the natural frequency, thereby improving the overall stability of the tube column assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, each set of kinematic pairs includes a pair of friction components, the pair of friction components being formed in any of the following structures: a guide pin and a guide rail configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube; a rolling element and a rolling rail configured to roll in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube; a slider and a sliding rail configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube.

[0018] By utilizing the sliding contact fit between the guide pin and the guide rail, the rolling contact fit between the rolling element and the rolling rail, and the sliding contact fit between the slider and the sliding rail, the stable and smooth expansion and contraction of the corresponding pipe fittings can be achieved, and the structural rigidity of the corresponding pipe fittings can be improved.

[0019] In some embodiments, the guide rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure or a concave guide rail structure, and / or the rolling rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure or a concave guide rail structure, and / or the sliding rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure, a concave guide rail structure, or a convex guide rail structure.

[0020] This allows the tracks of each motion pair to be adapted to the structure of the corresponding fittings and / or mounting brackets.

[0021] In some embodiments, the guide pins are mounted on both sides of the mounting bracket in the axial direction via a support frame; the guide rails are connected to the corresponding pipe fittings and distributed on both sides of the corresponding pipe fittings in the axial direction.

[0022] The fitting has a relatively complete structure, which facilitates the installation of guide rails. The guide pins and guide rails are distributed on both sides of the axis, which can provide relatively symmetrical support, ensure a smooth and stable telescopic adjustment process, and help improve the overall rigidity and natural frequency of the steering column assembly, thereby enhancing the stability of the steering column assembly.

[0023] In some embodiments, the support frame is fixed to the body contour of the mounting bracket; the mounting bracket is provided with an extension leg, and the guide pin is fixed to the extension leg.

[0024] The mounting bracket is an inherent component of the steering column assembly. The guide pin is mounted on the support frame, and the stable assembly of the guide pin is achieved by the cooperation between the support frame and the mounting bracket. Adaptable support components can be designed according to the setting requirements of the kinematic pair, which improves the ease and reliability of the kinematic pair installation. Moreover, the mounting bracket only needs to be equipped with an extension leg without modifying the main structure.

[0025] In some embodiments, the slider and the sliding rail include a first slider and a first sliding rail respectively disposed on a first pipe and a second pipe of the pipe assembly; the first pipe is provided with an assembly frame, the first slider is disposed on the assembly frame and distributed on both sides of the first pipe in the axial direction; the second pipe is provided with a first support frame, the first sliding rail is disposed on the side wall of the first support frame and distributed on both sides of the second pipe in the axial direction.

[0026] The assembly frame facilitates the placement of the first slider and ensures its symmetrical distribution on both sides of the first pipe fitting's axial direction. The first support frame facilitates the placement of the first sliding rail and ensures its symmetrical distribution on both sides of the second pipe fitting's axial direction. The cooperation of the first slider and the first sliding rail provides constraint and guidance between the first and second pipe fittings, enhancing fit rigidity and improving stability.

[0027] In some embodiments, the slider and the sliding rail include a second slider and a second sliding rail respectively disposed on a second pipe fitting and a third pipe fitting of the pipe assembly; a first support frame is disposed on the second pipe fitting, the second sliding rail is disposed on the bottom wall of the first support frame and distributed on both sides of the second pipe fitting in the axial direction, and the second sliding rail is formed as a convex guide rail structure; a second support frame is disposed on the third pipe fitting, the second support frame is fitted onto the bottom of the first support frame, and the second slider is embedded in the second support frame and distributed on both sides of the third pipe fitting in the axial direction.

[0028] The first support frame facilitates the installation of the second sliding rail, which is symmetrically distributed on both sides of the second pipe fitting's axial direction. The second support frame also facilitates the installation of the second slider, which is symmetrically distributed on both sides of the third pipe fitting's axial direction. The cooperation between the second slider and the second sliding rail provides constraint and guidance between the second and third pipe fittings, enhancing the fit rigidity and improving stability.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first support frame is formed as a dovetail guide rail structure, wherein a first sliding rail is disposed on the side wall of the dovetail guide rail structure and a second sliding rail is disposed on the bottom wall of the dovetail guide rail structure.

[0030] The dovetail guide rail structure, supported at the bottom of the central tube, significantly enhances the structural rigidity of the central tube, raises its natural frequency, and prevents resonance caused by the central tube coinciding with the external excitation frequency during vehicle operation. Utilizing the dovetail guide rail structure, a pair of axially symmetrical first sliding rails and a pair of axially symmetrical second sliding rails are simultaneously formed, ensuring stable engagement between the central tube and the outer and inner tubes, as well as providing guidance and support during telescoping and telescoping adjustments, significantly improving the stability of the tube assembly during telescoping and telescoping. Furthermore, a pair of guide rails can be positioned on the sidewalls of the dovetail guide rail structure, making the friction components on the central tube more compact, improving stability and integration.

[0031] In some embodiments, the rolling element is any one of a roller, a cylinder, or a ball, and the rolling element is embedded on the surface of the corresponding pipe; the rolling track is the surface of the corresponding pipe, or the surface of the corresponding pipe is provided with a rolling groove for forming the rolling track.

[0032] By utilizing the rolling friction between the rolling elements and the rolling track, motion resistance can be reduced, adjustment smoothness can be improved, and appropriate contact stiffness can be maintained to enhance the stability of the steering column assembly.

[0033] In some embodiments, the two friction components of the kinematic pair are in lubricated contact with lubricating oil.

[0034] The lubricating oil is evenly distributed in the contact area of ​​the moving parts, maintaining high rigidity contact while reducing wear, extending the service life of the moving parts and reducing noise.

[0035] In some embodiments, the steering column assembly further includes a telescopic adjustment mechanism, which includes: a first screw mechanism, comprising a first screw having two reverse threaded sections and two first nuts respectively cooperating with the two reverse threaded sections; a first motor, the two ends of the output shaft of the first motor being connected to the two reverse threaded sections respectively, the housing of the first motor being connected to the middle tube, and the two first nuts being connected to the inner tube and the outer tube respectively; wherein, linear bearings are provided between adjacent columns of the column assembly.

[0036] When the first motor drives the first screw to rotate, the two opposing threaded sections of the first screw cause the two first nuts to move in opposite directions relative to the first screw. This, in turn, causes the inner and outer tubing components to move in opposite directions relative to the middle tubing component, achieving two-stage extension and retraction. This allows the steering column assembly to quickly extend or retract, meeting the requirements for long-stroke extension and retraction. Furthermore, linear bearings are used to ensure smooth and stable extension and retraction between adjacent tubing components in the column assembly. Additionally, the combination of linear bearings and the support structure of the kinematic pairs significantly improves the rigidity of the column assembly within a compact space.

[0037] In some embodiments, the steering column assembly further includes an angle adjustment mechanism, which includes: a second motor, the housing of which is fixedly connected to the mounting bracket; and a second screw mechanism, including a second screw connected to the output shaft of the second motor and a second nut cooperating with the second screw, wherein the second screw is inclined relative to the axial direction of the column assembly, and the second nut is fixedly connected to the outer tube by a clamp.

[0038] When the second motor drives the second screw to rotate, the second nut moves along the inclined second screw, causing the tube column assembly to pitch relative to the axis, thereby achieving angle adjustment of the tube column assembly.

[0039] In some embodiments, each set of kinematic pairs is configured to: be composed of rigid metal parts and maintain contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube in a close abutting assembly manner; and / or be composed of magnetic metal parts and maintain contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube in a magnetically attracted manner; and / or be composed of a combination of elastic and rigid metal parts and maintain contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube in a spring-forced pushing manner.

[0040] Among the various configurations described above, considering both reduced manufacturing costs and increased rigidity of the tubing assembly, the preferred configuration for the kinematic pair is one composed of rigid metal parts and held in close contact during the expansion and contraction of the corresponding tubing components. When magnetic attraction or elastic pressing is used to maintain contact between the kinematic pair, strong magnetism or high elasticity is preferred to enhance the rigidity of the tubing assembly.

[0041] According to another aspect of this application, a steering wheel adjustment system is provided, the steering wheel adjustment system being configured with a feel simulation unit and a steering column device as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0042] With the aforementioned steering column assembly, the steering wheel adjustment system of this application possesses high structural strength, enhances static and dynamic stability, enables smooth long-stroke steering wheel extension and retraction, improves user experience, and allows for steering wheel concealment, meeting the demands for enhanced vehicle intelligent space and autonomous driving. This steering wheel adjustment system can be applied to traditional vehicle models or newer models equipped with a steer-by-wire system and a hand-feel simulator, demonstrating broad application prospects.

[0043] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the steering column device in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 2 This diagram shows an exploded view of the main components of the steering column device in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The following are schematic diagrams of the various kinematic pairs of the steering column device in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0048] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to make this application more comprehensive and complete, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art.

[0049] The accompanying drawings are merely illustrative of this application and are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore, repeated descriptions of them will be omitted.

[0050] The use of terms such as "first," "second," and similar words in the specific description does not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but is merely used to distinguish different components. The terms "left," "right," "top," "bottom," etc., 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. The term "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the term "connection" should be interpreted broadly, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or a connection within two elements.

[0051] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments of this application and the features in different embodiments can be combined with each other. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0052] Figure 1 The overall structure of the steering column assembly is shown in the diagram. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the exploded structure of the main components of the steering column assembly. Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the structure of the three kinematic pairs in the steering column assembly, combined with... Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the steering column device provided in this application embodiment includes a mounting bracket 100 and a column assembly 200 supported on the mounting bracket 100. The column assembly 200 includes a plurality of sleeved and retractable tubes (210, 220, 230), wherein:

[0053] Kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) are provided between one or more pipe fittings of the pipe assembly 200 and the mounting bracket 100, and / or between multiple pipe fittings of the pipe assembly 200. Each set of kinematic pairs is configured to maintain contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding pipe fitting, wherein the corresponding pipe fitting is a pipe fitting that assembles the friction component of the kinematic pair.

[0054] By utilizing kinematic pairs disposed between one or more pipe fittings and mounting bracket 100, and / or kinematic pairs disposed between multiple pipe fittings, relative kinematic contact is maintained during the extension and retraction of the corresponding pipe fittings, providing continuous guidance and support, effectively suppressing radial sway and axial movement caused by gaps, significantly improving the dynamic stability of the pipe column assembly 200 during the extension and retraction adjustment process, ensuring smooth extension and retraction adjustment, and thus improving reliability and driving experience.

[0055] Mounting bracket 100 can be fixed to the vehicle body. The column assembly 200 includes multiple sleeved and telescopic tubes (210, 220, 230) capable of telescopic adjustment relative to mounting bracket 100. Kinematic pairs are provided between the multiple tubes, which can be adjacent or non-adjacent tubes. Each set of kinematic pairs is configured to maintain contact during the telescopic movement of the corresponding tube, wherein the corresponding tube is a tube with friction components for assembling the kinematic pair. This means that a tube has kinematic pairs between it and other tubes and / or mounting bracket 100, wherein one friction component of each kinematic pair is located on the tube and another friction component is located on another tube or mounting bracket 100; during the telescopic movement of the tube, these kinematic pairs maintain relative kinematic contact to guide and support the movement of the tube, ensuring smooth and stable telescopic adjustment of the tube.

[0056] In some embodiments, each set of kinematic pairs is configured to maintain sliding and / or rolling contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube.

[0057] The kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) may include one or more sets, and the frictional contact method of each set of kinematic pairs may be sliding contact and / or rolling contact. The frictional contact methods of multiple sets of kinematic pairs may be the same or different. By utilizing sliding contact and rolling contact, appropriate friction can be achieved and a certain load-bearing capacity can be provided, thereby enabling the corresponding pipe fitting to remain stable and smooth during expansion and contraction. In other embodiments, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) may also employ other suitable frictional contact methods.

[0058] In some embodiments, each set of kinematic pairs is further configured to be in contact with each other in a static state.

[0059] Thus, the corresponding pipe fittings are provided with static support to resist vibrations during vehicle operation, thereby improving the stability of the pipe column assembly 200. The static contact method of the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) can be a slight interference fit to provide a certain support force and stiffness, but is not limited to this; it can also be a contact with zero interference or even a slight clearance contact. In other embodiments, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) can also be configured to not contact and be in a suspended state in a static state.

[0060] In some embodiments, the kinematic pairs disposed between a plurality of pipe fittings of the pipe assembly 200 are located between adjacent pipe fittings of the pipe assembly 200.

[0061] This facilitates the placement of kinematic pairs among multiple pipe fittings. In other embodiments, kinematic pairs can also be placed between non-adjacent pipe fittings, as long as they do not interfere with the normal function of the pipe assembly 200.

[0062] In some embodiments, the tubing assembly 200 includes an outer tubing 210, a middle tubing 220, and an inner tubing 230 that are sequentially sleeved and retractable, wherein the inner tubing 230, the middle tubing 220, and the outer tubing 210 each include a tubing or a plurality of retractable sub-tubings.

[0063] The inner fitting 230 and / or the middle fitting 220 and / or the outer fitting 210 can be an independent single fitting structure or a multi-stage fitting structure containing multiple retractable sub-fittings.

[0064] In some embodiments, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) include one or more sets of first kinematic pairs 310 disposed between the mounting bracket 100 and the middle tube 220, for example... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown; and / or, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) include one or more sets of second kinematic pairs 320 disposed between the middle fitting 220 and the outer fitting 210, for example Figure 4 As shown; and / or, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) include one or more sets of third kinematic pairs 330 disposed between the middle fitting 220 and the inner fitting 230, for example Figure 5 As shown.

[0065] In the column assembly 200, the outer tube 210 is connected to the mounting bracket 100, and the inner tube 230 is connected to the steering wheel, both in relatively stable states. However, the middle tube 220 is relatively prone to vibration. When the column assembly 200 is fully extended, the connection point between the middle tube 220 and the steering wheel forms a long cantilever distance from the fixing point between the mounting bracket 100 and the vehicle body. This causes even minor vibrations to produce noticeable shaking at the steering wheel. Therefore, by setting kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) between the middle tube 220 and other tubes and / or the mounting bracket 100 to form support points, the cantilever length is effectively shortened. This improves the stability of the middle tube 220 during extension and retraction, increases its structural stiffness to raise its natural frequency, and thus enhances the overall stability of the column assembly 200.

[0066] The natural frequency refers to the natural frequency of a structure during undamped free vibration, which is determined by both the mass and stiffness of the structure. The calculation formula is as follows: Where ω is the natural frequency, k is the structural stiffness, and m is the structural mass. By using the kinematic pair (310, 320, 330), the structural stiffness of the column assembly 200 can be increased, the natural frequency can be raised, and resonance caused by the overlap of the column assembly 200 with the external excitation frequency during vehicle operation can be avoided, thereby comprehensively improving driving comfort and system reliability.

[0067] In some embodiments, each set of kinematic pairs includes a pair of friction components, which are formed in any of the following configurations: a guide pin 311 and a guide rail 312 configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube; a rolling element and a rolling rail configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube; or a slider (321, 331) and a sliding rail (322, 332) configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube.

[0068] By utilizing the sliding contact fit between guide pin 311 and guide rail 312, the rolling contact fit between rolling element and rolling rail, and the sliding contact fit between slider (321, 331) and sliding rail (322, 332), stable and smooth expansion and contraction of the corresponding pipe fittings can be achieved, and the structural rigidity of the corresponding pipe fittings can be improved. In practical applications, one or more kinematic pairs with different structures can be configured as needed, and the specific structure of each kinematic pair can also be adjusted as required. For example, multiple sets of kinematic pairs containing guide pin 311 and guide rail 312, and multiple sets of kinematic pairs containing slider (321, 331) and sliding rail (322, 332) can be configured. In different kinematic pairs, the specific structures of slider (321, 331) and sliding rail (322, 332) can be different.

[0069] In some embodiments, the guide rail 312 is formed as a planar guide rail structure or a concave guide rail structure, and / or the rolling rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure or a concave guide rail structure, and / or the sliding rail (322, 332) is formed as a planar guide rail structure, a concave guide rail structure, or a convex guide rail structure.

[0070] This allows the tracks of each kinematic pair (310, 320, 330) to be adapted to the structure of the corresponding fittings and / or mounting brackets 100.

[0071] In some embodiments, guide pins 311 are mounted on both sides of the mounting bracket 100 along the axial direction via support frames 316; guide rails 312 are connected to corresponding pipe fittings. Figures 1 to 5 The diagram illustrates the connection between guide rail 312 and central pipe fitting 220 (but is not limited to this) and they are distributed on both sides of the axial direction of the corresponding pipe fitting. The axial direction of the mounting bracket 100 and the axial direction of each pipe fitting extend approximately along the Z-direction.

[0072] The fitting has a relatively complete structure, which facilitates the installation of the guide rail 312. The guide pin 311 and the guide rail 312 are distributed on both sides of the axial direction, which can provide relatively symmetrical support, ensure smooth and stable telescopic adjustment, and help improve the overall rigidity and natural frequency of the steering column assembly, thereby enhancing the stability of the steering column assembly.

[0073] In some embodiments, the support frame 316 is fixed to the body outline of the mounting bracket 100; the mounting bracket 100 is provided with an extension leg 116, and the guide pin 311 is fixed to the extension leg 116.

[0074] Mounting bracket 100 is an inherent component of the steering column assembly. Guide pin 311 is mounted on support frame 316. The support frame 316 and mounting bracket 100 work together to securely assemble guide pin 311. Adaptive support components can be designed according to the requirements of the first kinematic pair 310, improving the ease and reliability of installation. Furthermore, mounting bracket 100 only requires the addition of extension leg 116 without altering its main structure. The guide pin 311 and extension leg 116 can be securely mounted via support block 318.

[0075] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 4As shown in the accompanying drawings, the sliders (321, 331) and sliding tracks (322, 332) include a first slider 321 and a first sliding track 322 respectively disposed on a first tube (e.g., outer tube 210, but not limited thereto) and a second tube (e.g., middle tube 220, but not limited thereto) of the tube assembly 200, forming a second kinematic pair 320; an assembly frame 326 is provided on the first tube, and the first slider 321 is disposed on the assembly frame 326 and distributed on both sides of the first tube in the axial direction; a first support frame 300 is provided on the second tube, and the first sliding track 322 is disposed on the side wall of the first support frame 300 and distributed on both sides of the second tube in the axial direction.

[0076] The assembly bracket 326 facilitates the placement of the first slider 321, ensuring its symmetrical distribution on both sides of the first pipe fitting's axial direction. The first support bracket 300 facilitates the placement of the first sliding rail 322, ensuring its symmetrical distribution on both sides of the second pipe fitting's axial direction. The cooperation between the first slider 321 and the first sliding rail 322 provides constraint and guidance between the first and second pipe fittings, enhancing fit rigidity and improving stability.

[0077] In some embodiments, refer to Figure 5 As shown in the accompanying drawings, the sliders (321, 331) and sliding tracks (322, 332) include a second slider 331 and a second sliding track 332 respectively disposed on a second tube (e.g., middle tube 220, but not limited thereto) and a third tube (e.g., inner tube 230, but not limited thereto) of the tube assembly 200, forming a third kinematic pair 330; a first support frame 300 is disposed on the second tube, and the second sliding track 332 is disposed on the bottom wall of the first support frame 300 and distributed on both sides of the second tube in the axial direction, and the second sliding track 332 is formed as a convex guide rail structure; a second support frame 338 is disposed on the third tube, the second support frame 338 is fitted into the bottom of the first support frame 300, and the second slider 331 is embedded in the second support frame 338 and distributed on both sides of the third tube in the axial direction.

[0078] The first support frame 300 facilitates the installation of the second sliding rail 332, ensuring that the second sliding rail 332 is symmetrically distributed on both sides of the second pipe fitting along its axial direction. The second support frame 338 facilitates the installation of the second slider 331, ensuring that the second slider 331 is symmetrically distributed on both sides of the third pipe fitting along its axial direction. The cooperation between the second slider 331 and the second sliding rail 332 provides constraint and guidance between the second and third pipe fittings, enhancing the fit rigidity and improving stability.

[0079] The second sliding track 332 and the second slider 331 can be formed into U-shaped structures respectively, with the second sliding track 332 nested in the second slider 331 to achieve a stable fit.

[0080] In some embodiments, the first support frame 300 is formed as a dovetail guide rail structure, wherein the first sliding rail 322 is disposed on the side wall of the dovetail guide rail structure and the second sliding rail 332 is disposed on the bottom wall of the dovetail guide rail structure.

[0081] The dovetail guide rail structure supports the bottom of the central tube 220, significantly enhancing its structural rigidity and raising its natural frequency, thus preventing resonance caused by the central tube 220 coinciding with the external excitation frequency during vehicle operation. Utilizing the dovetail guide rail structure, a pair of axially symmetrical first sliding rails 322 and a pair of axially symmetrical second sliding rails 332 are simultaneously formed, enabling the central tube 220 to achieve stable engagement with the outer tube 210 and inner tube 230, respectively, and providing guidance and support during telescopic adjustment, significantly improving the telescopic adjustment stability of the tube column assembly 200. Furthermore, a pair of guide rails 312 can be installed on the sidewall of the dovetail guide rail structure, making the friction components on the central tube 220 more compact, improving stability and integration.

[0082] In some embodiments, the rolling element is any one of a roller, a cylinder, or a ball, and the rolling element is embedded on the surface of the corresponding pipe; the rolling track is the surface of the corresponding pipe, or the surface of the corresponding pipe is provided with a rolling groove for forming the rolling track.

[0083] By utilizing the rolling friction between the rolling elements and the rolling track, motion resistance can be reduced, adjustment smoothness can be improved, and appropriate contact stiffness can be maintained to enhance the stability of the steering column assembly.

[0084] In some embodiments, the two friction components of the kinematic pair (310, 320, 330) are in lubricated contact with lubricating oil.

[0085] The lubricating oil is evenly distributed in the contact area of ​​the moving parts (310, 320, 330), maintaining high rigidity contact while reducing wear, extending the service life of the moving parts (310, 320, 330) and reducing noise.

[0086] Combination Figures 1 to 3As shown, in some embodiments, the steering column assembly further includes a telescopic adjustment mechanism 400, which includes: a first screw mechanism, comprising a first screw having two reverse threaded sections 411 and two first nuts 412 respectively cooperating with the two reverse threaded sections 411; a first motor 420, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the two reverse threaded sections 411, the housing of the first motor 420 being connected to the middle tube 220, and the two first nuts 412 being respectively connected to the inner tube 230 and the outer tube 210; wherein, linear bearings are provided between adjacent tubes of the column assembly 200.

[0087] When the first motor 420 drives the first screw to rotate, the two reverse threaded sections 411 of the first screw cause the two first nuts 412 to move in opposite directions relative to the first screw. This, in turn, causes the inner tube 230 and outer tube 210 to move in opposite directions relative to the middle tube 220, achieving two-stage telescopic movement. This allows the steering column to quickly extend or shorten, meeting long-stroke telescopic requirements. In extreme retraction mode, the outer tube 210, middle tube 220, and inner tube 230 can be interlocked, effectively reducing size, increasing cabin space, and enabling intelligent functions such as a retractable steering wheel. In practical applications, for example, the outer tube 210 is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket 100. When the telescopic adjustment mechanism 400 operates, the middle tube 220 telescopically extends relative to the outer tube 210 at one speed, and the inner tube 230 telescopically extends relative to the outer tube 210 at two speeds, thereby causing the steering wheel to telescopically extend at two speeds.

[0088] Furthermore, linear bearings are used to achieve smooth and stable telescopic movement between adjacent tubular sections of the tubular assembly 200. Rolling friction fit is achieved between adjacent tubular components via linear bearings, effectively reducing fit resistance and making the overall structure of the tubular assembly 200 compact and space-saving. In addition, the combination of linear bearings and the support structure of the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) significantly improves the rigidity of the tubular assembly 200 within a compact space.

[0089] In some embodiments, the tubing assembly 200 is rotatably supported on the mounting bracket 100. Specifically, the steering tubing assembly further includes an angle adjustment mechanism 500, which includes: a second motor 510, the housing of which is fixedly connected to the mounting bracket 100; and a second screw mechanism, including a second screw 520 connected to the output shaft of the second motor 510 and a second nut 530 cooperating with the second screw 520. The second screw 520 is inclined relative to the axial direction of the tubing assembly 200, and the second nut 530 is fixedly connected to the outer tubing 210 via a clamp 550.

[0090] When the second motor 510 drives the second screw 520 to rotate, the second nut 530 moves along the inclined second screw 520, causing the column assembly 200 to pitch relative to the axis, thereby adjusting the angle of the column assembly 200, which in turn drives the steering wheel to adjust the angle, so as to optimize the driving posture and improve comfort and safety.

[0091] In other embodiments, the tubular assembly 200 may also be rotatably supported on the mounting bracket 100 in other feasible ways.

[0092] In the above embodiments, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) are preferably configured to be made of rigid metal parts (i.e., each friction component is made of rigid metal parts) and maintain contact during the extension and contraction of the corresponding tube by means of close abutment assembly, but this application is not limited to this. For example, in other embodiments, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) may also be made of magnetic metal parts (i.e., each friction component is made of magnetic metal parts) and maintain contact during the extension and contraction of the corresponding tube by means of mutual magnetic attraction. In addition, the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) may also be composed of elastic parts (e.g., springs, rubber, or other elastic bodies are mounted on the side of one or two friction components away from the sliding / rolling contact surface) and rigid metal parts (i.e., each friction component is made of rigid metal parts) and maintain contact during the extension and contraction of the corresponding tube by means of elastic pushing.

[0093] Among the various configurations described above, methods such as close contact, magnetic attraction, or elastic pressing can be freely combined and applied to one or more sets of kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330). From the perspective of reducing manufacturing costs and increasing the rigidity of the tubing assembly 200, it is preferable that the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330) are configured to be made of rigid metal parts and maintain contact during the expansion and contraction of the corresponding tubing components through close contact assembly. Furthermore, when using magnetic attraction or elastic pressing to maintain contact between the kinematic pairs (310, 320, 330), strong magnetism or high elasticity is preferred to improve the rigidity of the tubing assembly 200.

[0094] This application also provides a steering wheel adjustment system, which is equipped with a feel simulation unit and a steering column device as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0095] With the aforementioned steering column assembly, the steering wheel adjustment system of this application possesses high structural strength, enhances static and dynamic stability, enables smooth long-stroke steering wheel extension and retraction, improves user experience, and allows for steering wheel concealment, meeting the demands for enhanced vehicle intelligent space and autonomous driving. This steering wheel adjustment system can be applied to traditional vehicle models or newer models equipped with a steer-by-wire system and a hand-feel simulator, demonstrating broad application prospects.

[0096] Finally, it should be noted that the above description, in conjunction with specific preferred embodiments, provides a further detailed explanation of this application and should not be construed as limiting the specific implementation of this application to these descriptions. For those skilled in the art, various simple deductions or substitutions can be made without departing from the concept of this application, and all such modifications or substitutions should be considered within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A steering column assembly, comprising a mounting bracket and a column assembly supported on the mounting bracket, the column assembly comprising a plurality of sleeved and retractable tubular components, characterized in that: A kinematic pair is provided between one or more pipe fittings of the pipe assembly and the mounting bracket, and / or between multiple pipe fittings of the pipe assembly, wherein each set of kinematic pairs is configured to maintain contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding pipe fitting, wherein the corresponding pipe fitting is a pipe fitting that assembles a friction component of the kinematic pair.

2. The steering column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Each set of kinematic pairs is configured to maintain sliding contact and / or rolling contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tube.

3. The steering column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Each set of kinematic pairs is also configured to be in contact with each other under static conditions.

4. The steering column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The kinematic pairs disposed between the multiple fittings of the tubing assembly are located between adjacent fittings of the tubing assembly.

5. The steering column device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The tubular assembly includes an outer tubular fitting, a middle tubular fitting, and an inner tubular fitting that are sequentially connected and retractable, wherein the inner tubular fitting, the middle tubular fitting, and the outer tubular fitting each contain one tubular fitting or multiple retractable sub-tubular fittings.

6. The steering column assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The kinematic pair includes one or more sets of first kinematic pairs disposed between the mounting bracket and the middle tube, and / or, the kinematic pair includes one or more sets of second kinematic pairs disposed between the middle tube and the outer tube, and / or, the kinematic pair includes one or more sets of third kinematic pairs disposed between the middle tube and the inner tube.

7. The steering column assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Each set of said kinematic pairs includes a pair of friction components, said pair of friction components being formed in any of the following structures: The guide pins and guide rails are configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding pipe fittings; The rolling elements and rolling tracks are configured to make rolling contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding tubular components; The slider and sliding rail are configured to slide in contact during the extension and retraction of the corresponding pipe fitting.

8. The steering column assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The guide rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure or a concave guide rail structure, and / or the rolling rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure or a concave guide rail structure, and / or the sliding rail is formed as a planar guide rail structure, a concave guide rail structure, or a convex guide rail structure.

9. The steering column assembly as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The guide pins are mounted on both sides of the mounting bracket along the axial direction via a support frame; The guide rails are connected to the corresponding pipe fittings and are distributed on both sides of the axial direction of the corresponding pipe fittings.

10. The steering column assembly as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The support frame is fixed to the body contour of the mounting bracket; The mounting bracket is provided with an extension leg, and the guide pin is fixed to the extension leg.

11. The steering column assembly as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The slider and the sliding rail include a first slider and a first sliding rail respectively disposed on a first pipe fitting and a second pipe fitting of the pipe column assembly; The first pipe fitting is provided with an assembly frame, and the first slider is disposed on the assembly frame and distributed on both sides of the first pipe fitting in the axial direction. The second pipe fitting is provided with a first support frame, and the first sliding track is provided on the side wall of the first support frame and distributed on both sides of the second pipe fitting in the axial direction.

12. The steering column assembly as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The slider and the sliding rail include a second slider and a second sliding rail respectively disposed on the second pipe fitting and the third pipe fitting of the pipe column assembly; The second pipe fitting is provided with a first support frame, and the second sliding rail is provided on the bottom wall of the first support frame and distributed on both sides of the second pipe fitting in the axial direction. The second sliding rail is formed as a convex guide rail structure. The third pipe fitting is provided with a second support frame, which is fitted onto the bottom of the first support frame. The second slider is embedded in the second support frame and distributed on both sides of the axial direction of the third pipe fitting.

13. The steering column assembly as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The first support frame is formed as a dovetail guide rail structure, wherein the first sliding rail is disposed on the side wall of the dovetail guide rail structure.

14. The steering column assembly as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The first support frame is formed as a dovetail guide rail structure, wherein the second sliding rail is disposed on the bottom wall of the dovetail guide rail structure.

15. The steering column assembly as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The rolling element is any one of roller, roller, or ball, and the rolling element is embedded in the surface of the corresponding tube. The rolling track is the surface of the corresponding pipe fitting, or the surface of the corresponding pipe fitting is provided with a rolling groove for forming the rolling track.

16. The steering column assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The steering column assembly further includes a telescopic adjustment mechanism, which comprises: The first lead screw mechanism includes a first screw having two reverse threaded sections and two first nuts that respectively mate with the two reverse threaded sections; The first motor has its output shaft connected to the two reverse threaded sections at both ends, the housing of the first motor is connected to the middle tube, and the two first nuts are connected to the inner tube and the outer tube, respectively. Linear bearings are provided between adjacent tubular columns of the tubular assembly.

17. The steering column assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The steering column assembly further includes an angle adjustment mechanism, which comprises: The second motor, the housing of which is fixedly connected to the mounting bracket; The second lead screw mechanism includes a second screw connected to the output shaft of the second motor and a second nut cooperating with the second screw. The second screw is inclined relative to the axial direction of the tube assembly, and the second nut is fixedly connected to the outer tube by a clamp.

18. The steering column assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The kinematic pair configuration for each group is as follows: It is made of rigid metal parts and is assembled in a close-fitting manner to maintain contact during the expansion and contraction of the corresponding pipe fittings; And / or, It is made of magnetic metal parts and maintains contact during the expansion and contraction of corresponding tubes by means of magnetic attraction; And / or, It is composed of a combination of elastic and rigid metal parts and maintains contact during the expansion and contraction of the corresponding pipe by means of elastic pushing.

19. A steering wheel adjustment system, characterized in that, The steering wheel adjustment system is equipped with a feel simulation unit and a steering column device as described in any one of claims 1 to 18.

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