Steering column, steering column assembly, steering system and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of steering column, steering column assembly, steering system and vehicle.Belong to vehicle technical field, the steering column includes: upper column, lower column, upper steering shaft and lower steering shaft, upper column is set with height adjustment sliding slot, lower column is connected with upper column, and upper column is movable relative to lower column along the extension direction of height adjustment sliding slot, lower column is set with inclination angle adjustment hole, upper steering shaft is rotatably threaded in upper column, lower steering shaft is rotatably threaded in lower column, upper steering shaft is drivingly connected with lower steering shaft, and upper steering shaft is movable relative to lower steering shaft along the extension direction of height adjustment sliding slot, steering column can realize the height and inclination angle adjustment of steering wheel, and the structure of steering column is stable and reliable.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] The steering column is a key component of a vehicle's steering system. Its main function is to transmit steering wheel torque to the steering actuator to achieve vehicle steering. To make the steering wheel adaptable to drivers of different heights, the steering column is usually adjustable in terms of steering wheel height and tilt angle.

[0003] In related technologies, the steering column is connected to the vehicle body through two upper and lower sliding groove structures. When adjusting the steering wheel height, the steering column slides and rises and falls relative to the vehicle body as a whole through the two upper and lower sliding groove structures. When adjusting the steering wheel tilt angle, the lower sliding groove acts as a pivot, causing the steering column to rotate as a whole. After the steering wheel is adjusted to the appropriate position, the upper sliding groove structure of the steering column is locked to the vehicle body by a locking device. However, this structure results in insufficient support from the vehicle body for the lower sliding groove structure of the steering column, poor stability of the steering column, and easy vibration and abnormal noise of the steering column. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention aims to at least partially solve one of the aforementioned technical problems in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a steering column that enables adjustment of the steering wheel height and tilt angle, and the steering column has a stable and reliable structure.

[0005] This utility model also proposes a steering column assembly having the above-mentioned steering column.

[0006] This utility model also proposes a steering system having the above-mentioned steering column assembly.

[0007] This utility model also proposes a vehicle having the above-mentioned steering system.

[0008] A steering column according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: an upper column having a height adjustment groove; a lower column connected to the upper column, wherein the upper column is movable relative to the lower column along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove, and the lower column having a tilt adjustment hole; an upper steering shaft rotatably passing through the upper column; and a lower steering shaft rotatably passing through the lower column, wherein the upper steering shaft and the lower steering shaft are drively connected, and the upper steering shaft is movable relative to the lower steering shaft along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove.

[0009] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the upper column has a height adjustment groove and the lower column has a tilt adjustment hole. The upper column is movable relative to the lower column along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove, and the upper steering shaft is movable relative to the lower steering shaft. The steering column can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel, and the structure of the steering column is stable and reliable.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at the connection between the upper tube column and the lower tube column, one of the upper tube column and the lower tube column is sleeved on the outside of the other, and the two are fitted with a gap.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at the connection between the upper steering shaft and the lower steering shaft, one of the upper steering shaft and the lower steering shaft has an internal spline, and the other has an external spline that engages with the internal spline.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the steering column further includes: an upper bearing, which is disposed inside the upper column, and the upper steering shaft is rotatably connected to the upper column through the upper bearing; and a lower bearing, which is disposed inside the lower column, and the lower steering shaft is rotatably connected to the lower column through the lower bearing.

[0013] A steering column assembly according to a second aspect of the present invention includes: a steering column, wherein the steering column is as described above; a bracket assembly adapted to be fixedly connected to a vehicle body, the bracket assembly having a tilt adjustment groove and a tilt connection hole; a lower connecting pin, wherein the tilt adjustment hole is rotatably connected to the tilt connection hole via the lower connecting pin; an upper connecting pin, the upper connecting pin passing through the tilt adjustment groove and the height adjustment groove; and a locking adjustment member, the locking adjustment member having an unlocked state and a locked state, wherein in the unlocked state, the upper column and the bracket assembly are movably connected via the upper connecting pin, and in the locked state, the locking adjustment member fixes the upper column and the bracket assembly together.

[0014] According to the steering column assembly of this utility model embodiment, the upper column has a height adjustment groove and the lower column has a tilt adjustment hole. The upper column is movable relative to the lower column along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove, and the upper steering shaft is movable relative to the lower steering shaft. The steering column assembly can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel, and the structure of the steering column assembly is stable and reliable.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the bracket assembly includes: a lower bracket adapted to be connected between the instrument tube beam of the vehicle body and the cab floor of the vehicle body, the lower bracket having the tilt angle connection hole; and an upper bracket adapted to be connected to the instrument tube beam, the upper bracket having the tilt angle adjustment groove.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tilt adjustment groove extends in an arc shape around the axis of the tilt connection hole.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the lower bracket is further provided with a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole, the first mounting hole being adapted to be connected to the instrument tube beam by a first fastener, and the second mounting hole being adapted to be connected to the cab floor by a second fastener; the upper bracket is further provided with a third mounting hole, the third mounting hole being connected to the instrument tube beam by a third fastener; wherein, at least one of the first mounting hole, the second mounting hole and the third mounting hole is constructed as an elongated hole.

[0018] The steering system according to a third aspect of the present invention includes the steering column assembly described above.

[0019] According to the steering system of this utility model embodiment, the upper column has a height adjustment groove and the lower column has a tilt adjustment hole. Along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove, the upper column is movable relative to the lower column, and the upper steering shaft is movable relative to the lower steering shaft. The steering column assembly of this steering system can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel, and the structure of the steering column assembly is stable and reliable, which helps to improve the stability and reliability of the steering system.

[0020] The vehicle according to the fourth aspect of the present invention includes the steering system described above.

[0021] According to the vehicle of this utility model embodiment, the upper column has a height adjustment groove and the lower column has a tilt adjustment hole. Along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove, the upper column is movable relative to the lower column, and the upper steering shaft is movable relative to the lower steering shaft. The steering column assembly of this steering system can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel, and the structure of the steering column assembly is stable and reliable, thereby helping to reduce the risk of abnormal vibration and noise in the vehicle.

[0022] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 1 ;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 2 ;

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of the locking adjustment component;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the steering column, upper bracket, and locking adjustment component according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the upper support according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the lower support according to an embodiment of the present utility model;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the steering column, upper bracket, and locking adjustment component according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Figure 2 .

[0030] Figure label:

[0031] Steering column 1; Upper column 11; Protrusion 111; Height adjustment groove 1111; Lower column 12; Tilt adjustment hole 121; Upper steering shaft 13; Internal spline 131; Lower steering shaft 14; Upper bearing 15; Lower bearing 16;

[0032] Support assembly 2; lower support 21; tilt connection hole 211; first assembly hole 212; second assembly hole 213; upper support 22; upper fixing plate 221; third assembly hole 2211; upper adjusting plate 222; tilt adjustment slide 2221;

[0033] Lower connecting pin 3; upper connecting pin 4; locking adjustment component 5; first limiting component 51; second limiting component 52; handle 53; first cam 54; second cam 55; first fastener 61; second fastener 62; third fastener 63;

[0034] Steering column assembly 10; Steering wheel 20; Intermediate shaft 30; Body 40; Instrument beam 401; Cab floor 402; Vehicle 100. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0036] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "inner" and "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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 utility model.

[0037] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used 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 as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0038] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly 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, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0039] The steering column 1, steering column assembly 10, steering system, and vehicle 100 according to embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Reference Figures 1-4 As shown, the steering column 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention includes: an upper column 11, a lower column 12, an upper steering shaft 13, and a lower steering shaft 14. The upper column 11 has a height adjustment groove 1111. The lower column 12 is connected to the upper column 11, and the upper column 11 is movable relative to the lower column 12 along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111. The lower column 12 has an angle adjustment hole 121. The upper steering shaft 13 is rotatably inserted through the upper column 11, and the lower steering shaft 14 is rotatably inserted through the lower column 12. The upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14 are connected in a transmission, and the upper steering shaft 13 is movable relative to the lower steering shaft 14 along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111.

[0041] The steering column 1 can be used in vehicle 100. The upper end of the upper steering shaft 13 can be connected to the steering wheel 20 of vehicle 100, and the lower end of the upper steering shaft 13 can be connected to the upper end of the lower steering shaft 14. The lower end of the lower steering shaft 14 can be connected to the steering actuator of vehicle 100 through intermediate shaft 30 to realize the steering control of the wheels. In addition, for some vehicles 100 with steer-by-wire, the intermediate shaft 30 can be omitted, and the lower end of the lower steering shaft 14 can be directly connected to the feedback motor.

[0042] The upper steering shaft 13 is rotatably mounted on the upper column 11, which protects and supports the upper steering shaft 13. The lower steering shaft 14 is rotatably mounted on the lower column 12, which protects and supports the lower steering shaft 14. The height adjustment groove 1111 on the upper column 11 extends along the axial direction of the upper column 11. The lower column 12 has a tilt adjustment hole 121, the axis of which can be perpendicular to the axis of the lower column 12. The steering column 11 can be mounted on the body 40 of the vehicle 100 via the height adjustment groove 1111 and the tilt adjustment hole 121. The upper column 11 and the lower column 12 can be coaxially arranged. The upper column 11 extends along the height adjustment groove 1111. The upper steering column 111 is movable relative to the lower column 12, and the upper steering shaft 13 is movable relative to the lower steering shaft 14 along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111. Thus, while maintaining the transmission connection between the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14, the tilt angle and height of the steering wheel 20 can be adjusted. In other words, the entire steering column 1 can rotate around the axis of the tilt adjustment hole 121 to adjust the tilt angle of the steering wheel 20. In the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111, the upper column 11 and the upper steering shaft 13 can be raised and lowered synchronously relative to the lower column 12 and the lower steering shaft 14 to adjust the height of the steering wheel 20 through the extension and retraction of the steering column 1.

[0043] Specifically, the tilt adjustment hole 121 is adapted to be rotatably connected to the vehicle body 40 around its axis, and the height adjustment groove 1111 is adapted to be selectively locked into the vehicle body 40. When the height and tilt of the steering wheel 20 do not need to be adjusted, the height adjustment groove 1111 is locked into the vehicle body 40, and the upper column 11 is fixed relative to the vehicle body 40, so that the upper steering shaft 13 and the steering wheel 20 cannot be raised or lowered. At the same time, the steering column 1 as a whole cannot rotate around the axis of the tilt adjustment hole 121, thereby ensuring that the height and tilt of the steering wheel 20 are fixed. Furthermore, in the axial and radial directions of the tilt adjustment hole 121, the vehicle body 40 can support and limit the tilt adjustment hole 121. In other words, the tilt adjustment hole 121 and the height adjustment groove 1111 can stably connect the steering column 1 to the vehicle body 40, thereby improving the stability of the steering column 1 and reducing the risk of vibration and abnormal noise of the steering column 1.

[0044] When the height of the steering wheel 20 needs to be adjusted, the locking engagement between the height adjustment slide 1111 and the vehicle body 40 can be released, allowing the upper column 11 to be movably connected to the vehicle body 40 through the height adjustment slide 1111. Then, the steering wheel 20 can be raised or lowered along the extension direction of the height adjustment slide 1111. At this time, the lower column 12 does not tend to rotate around the axis of the tilt adjustment hole 121. The lower column 12 and the lower steering shaft 14 remain stationary relative to the vehicle body 40. The steering wheel 20, the upper steering shaft 13, and the upper column 11 are raised or lowered synchronously along the extension direction of the height adjustment slide 1111, causing the axial length of the steering column 1 to lengthen or shorten. The height adjustment slide 1111 can provide lifting guidance during this process. After adjusting the steering wheel 20 to the appropriate height, the height adjustment slide 1111 is locked to the vehicle body 40.

[0045] When the tilt angle of the steering wheel 20 needs to be adjusted, the locking engagement between the height adjustment slide 1111 and the body 40 can be released, so that the upper column 11 is movably connected to the body 40 through the height adjustment slide 1111. Then, the steering wheel 20, upper column 11, lower column 12, upper steering shaft 13 and lower steering shaft 14 are rotated as a whole around the axis of the tilt adjustment hole 121 to adjust the tilt angle of the steering wheel 20. After the steering wheel 20 is adjusted to a suitable tilt angle, the height adjustment slide 1111 is locked to the body 40.

[0046] It should be noted that after the height adjustment slide 1111 is released from the locking engagement with the body 40, the height and tilt angle of the steering wheel 20 can be adjusted synchronously.

[0047] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the steering column 1 has an upper column 11 with a height adjustment groove 1111 and a lower column 12 with a tilt adjustment hole 121. The upper column 11 is movable relative to the lower column 12 along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111, and the upper steering shaft 13 is movable relative to the lower steering shaft 14. The steering column 1 can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel 20, and the structure of the steering column 1 is stable and reliable.

[0048] In some embodiments of this utility model, at the connection between the upper tube column 11 and the lower tube column 12, one of the upper tube column 11 and the lower tube column 12 is sleeved on the outside of the other, and the two are fitted with a gap.

[0049] Reference Figure 4As shown, the lower end of the upper tube column 11 is fitted radially outside the upper end of the lower tube column 12. The lower end of the upper tube column 11 and the upper end of the lower tube column 12 are in clearance fit. The clearance fit facilitates the raising and lowering of the upper tube column 11 and reduces the moving resistance when the upper tube column 11 is raised and lowered. At the same time, since the lower end of the upper tube column 11 is fitted radially outside the upper end of the lower tube column 12, the gap opening at the connection between the upper tube column 11 and the lower tube column 12 faces downward, so that dust and impurities are not easily allowed to enter the interior of the steering tube column 1 through the gap between the upper tube column 11 and the lower tube column 12, thereby improving the dustproof performance of the steering tube column 1. In addition, the upper tube column 11 and the lower tube column 12 can be coaxially fitted. When the upper tube column 11 is raised and lowered, the lower tube column 12 can provide guidance for the raising and lowering of the upper tube column 11.

[0050] In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the upper end of the lower tube column 12 is fitted radially outside the lower end of the upper tube column 11, so that the gap opening at the connection between the upper tube column 11 and the lower tube column 12 faces upward, making it difficult for the lubricating medium inside the steering tube column 1 to flow out from the gap, thereby improving the service life of the steering tube column 1.

[0051] In some embodiments of this utility model, at the connection between the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14, one of the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14 has an internal spline 131, and the other has an external spline that is in transmission engagement with the internal spline 131.

[0052] For example, refer to Figure 4 As shown, at the connection between the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14, the upper steering shaft 13 has an internal spline 131, and the lower steering shaft 14 has an external spline. The external spline of the lower steering shaft 14 can be inserted into the internal spline 131 of the upper steering shaft 13 and engage with it in transmission, so as to realize the transmission of torque and axial movement of the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14. When adjusting the height of the steering wheel 20, the upper steering shaft 13 can move up and down relative to the lower steering shaft 14, and the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14 maintain a transmission connection.

[0053] For example, at the connection between the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14, the upper steering shaft 13 has an external spline and the lower steering shaft 14 has an internal spline 131. The external spline of the upper steering shaft 13 can be inserted into the internal spline 131 of the lower steering shaft 14 and engage with it for transmission. This can also realize the transmission of torque and axial movement of the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14.

[0054] In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14 are arranged in parallel. At the connection between the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14, the upper steering shaft 13 is provided with a first gear and the lower steering shaft 14 is provided with a second gear. The first gear and the second gear mesh, and the first gear and the second gear can move along the tooth width direction at the meshing point to realize the transmission and movement of the upper steering shaft 13 and the lower steering shaft 14.

[0055] In some embodiments of this utility model, reference is made to Figure 4 As shown, the steering column 1 also includes an upper bearing 15 and a lower bearing 16. The upper bearing 15 is located inside the upper column 11, and the upper steering shaft 13 is rotatably connected to the upper column 11 through the upper bearing 15. The lower bearing 16 is located inside the lower column 12, and the lower steering shaft 14 is rotatably connected to the lower column 12 through the lower bearing 16.

[0056] Specifically, the outer ring of the upper bearing 15 can be fixed to the inner wall of the upper column 11, and the inner ring of the upper bearing 15 can be fitted and fixed to the outside of the upper steering shaft 13. The upper steering shaft 13 is rotatably connected to the upper column 11 through the upper bearing 15. The upper bearing 15 can reduce the rotational resistance of the upper steering shaft 13 and bear radial and axial loads, allowing the upper bearing 15 and the upper column 11 to adjust their height and tilt angle synchronously. The outer ring of the lower bearing 16 can be fixed to the inner wall of the lower column 12, and the inner ring of the lower bearing 16 can be fitted and fixed to the outside of the lower steering shaft 14. The lower steering shaft 14 is rotatably connected to the lower column 12 through the lower bearing 16. The lower bearing 16 can reduce the rotational resistance of the lower steering shaft 14 and bear radial and axial loads, allowing the lower bearing 16 and the lower column 12 to adjust their tilt angle synchronously.

[0057] In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the upper steering shaft 13 may be rotatably connected to the upper column 11 via a structure such as a self-lubricating bushing or a bearing, and the lower steering shaft 14 may be rotatably connected to the lower column 12 via a structure such as a self-lubricating bushing or a bearing.

[0058] Reference Figures 1-7 As shown, the steering column assembly 10 according to the second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes: a steering column 1, a bracket assembly 2, a lower connecting pin 3, an upper connecting pin 4, and a locking adjustment member 5. The steering column 1 is the steering column 1 of the above embodiment. The bracket assembly 2 is adapted to be fixedly connected to the vehicle body 40. The bracket assembly 2 has a tilt adjustment groove 2221 and a tilt connection hole 211. The tilt adjustment hole 221 is rotatably connected to the tilt connection hole 211 through the lower connecting pin 3. The upper connecting pin 4 passes through the tilt adjustment groove 2221 and the height adjustment groove 1111. The locking adjustment member 5 has an unlocked state and a locked state. In the unlocked state, the upper column 11 and the bracket assembly 2 are movably connected through the upper connecting pin 4. In the locked state, the locking adjustment member 5 fixes the upper column 11 and the bracket assembly 2.

[0059] Specifically, the bracket assembly 2 is adapted to be fixedly connected to the vehicle body 40. The steering column 1 is connected to the bracket assembly 2 via the upper connecting pin 4, the lower connecting pin 3 and the locking adjustment component 5. By adjusting the state of the locking adjustment component 5, the steering column 1 can adjust the height and tilt angle of the steering wheel 20.

[0060] The tilt adjustment hole 121 of the steering column 1 is rotatably connected to the tilt connection hole 211 of the bracket assembly 2 via the lower connecting pin 3. That is, the lower connecting pin 3 can pass through the tilt connection hole 211 and the tilt adjustment hole 121 so that the lower connecting pin 3, the tilt connection hole 211 and the tilt adjustment hole 121 are coaxial. The steering column 1 can rotate around the axis of the lower connecting pin 3, thereby realizing the adjustment of the tilt angle of the steering column 1 and the steering wheel 20.

[0061] The height adjustment groove 1111 of the steering column 1 is connected to the tilt adjustment groove 2221 of the bracket assembly 2 via the upper connecting pin 4. That is, the upper connecting pin 4 passes through the tilt adjustment groove 2221 and the height adjustment groove 1111. When the locking adjustment component 5 is in the unlocked state, the height adjustment groove 1111 and the tilt adjustment groove 2221 are movably connected via the upper connecting pin 4. Both the height adjustment groove 1111 and the tilt adjustment groove 2221 are movably guided and engaged with the upper connecting pin 4. The upper column 11 can slide relative to the upper connecting pin 4 at the height adjustment groove 1111 to realize the lifting and lowering function of the steering wheel 20. The upper column 11 can also drive the upper connecting pin 4 to slide along the tilt adjustment groove 2221 to realize the tilt adjustment function of the steering wheel 20.

[0062] When the locking adjustment component 5 is in the locked state, it fixes the upper column 11 and the bracket assembly 2, thereby ensuring that the height and tilt angle of the steering wheel 20 are fixed.

[0063] Understandably, the steering column 1 is hinged to the bracket assembly 2 via the lower connecting pin 3. The steering column 1 is also selectively movable via the upper connecting pin 4 and the locking adjustment member 5. When the locking adjustment member 5 is in the locked state, the bracket assembly 2 can provide reliable support for the steering column 1 at both the hinge and the locking adjustment member 5, so that the steering column 1 has sufficient installation structural rigidity, ensures the structural stability of the steering column 1, and reduces the risk of vibration of the steering column 1 and the steering wheel 20.

[0064] According to the embodiment of the present utility model, the steering column assembly 10 has an upper column 11 with a height adjustment groove 1111 and a lower column 12 with a tilt adjustment hole 121. The upper column 11 is movable relative to the lower column 12 along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111, and the upper steering shaft 13 is movable relative to the lower steering shaft 14. The steering column assembly 10 can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel 20, and the structure of the steering column assembly 10 is stable and reliable.

[0065] In some embodiments of this utility model, reference is made to Figures 1-6As shown, the bracket assembly 2 includes a lower bracket 21 and an upper bracket 22. The lower bracket 21 is adapted to be connected between the instrument tube beam 401 of the vehicle body 40 and the cab floor 402 of the vehicle body 40. The lower bracket 21 has an angle connection hole 211. The upper bracket 22 is adapted to be connected to the instrument tube beam 401. The upper bracket 22 has an angle adjustment groove 2221.

[0066] Specifically, one end of the lower bracket 21 is connected to the instrument tube beam 401, and the other end of the lower bracket 21 is connected to the cab floor 402. This allows both ends of the lower bracket 21 to be fixed to different positions on the vehicle body 40, thereby improving the stability of the lower bracket 21. The lower column 12 is connected to the tilt connection hole 211 of the lower bracket 21 through the lower connecting pin 3. The lower bracket 21 can provide better support for the lower column 12 and reduce the risk of the lower column 12 shaking.

[0067] The upper bracket 22 is connected to the instrument tube beam 401. The upper bracket 22 has a tilt adjustment groove 2221. The upper column 11 is movably connected to the tilt adjustment groove 2221 at the height adjustment groove 1111 via an upper connecting pin 4. It can be understood that the lower bracket 21 and the body 40 form two connections at the instrument tube beam 401 and the cab floor 402, and the upper bracket 22 and the body 40 form one connection at the instrument tube beam 401. The bracket assembly 2 and the body 40 form a total of three connections. The three connection positions do not need to be collinear. The connection between the bracket assembly 2 and the body 40 is more stable and reliable to ensure the stability of the steering column 1 installed on the bracket assembly 2. At the same time, splitting the bracket assembly 2 into the lower bracket 21 and the upper bracket 22 can facilitate the flexible assembly of the bracket assembly 2 and reduce the manufacturing and assembly difficulty of the bracket assembly 2.

[0068] In some embodiments of this utility model, reference is made to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the tilt adjustment groove 2221 extends in an arc shape around the axis of the tilt connection hole 211. When adjusting the tilt angle of the steering wheel 20, both the steering column 1 and the upper connecting pin 4 rotate around the axis of the tilt connection hole 211. At this time, the upper connecting pin 4 moves within the tilt adjustment groove 2221. Since the tilt adjustment groove 2221 extends in an arc shape around the axis of the tilt connection hole 211, the tilt adjustment groove 2221 can guide the sliding of the upper connecting pin 4, allowing the upper connecting pin 4 to slide smoothly along the extension direction of the tilt adjustment groove 2221, thus facilitating the adjustment operation of the steering wheel 20 tilt angle.

[0069] In some embodiments of this utility model, reference is made to Figures 1-3 as well as Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the lower bracket 21 is also provided with a first mounting hole 212 and a second mounting hole 213. The first mounting hole 212 is adapted to be connected to the instrument tube beam 401 through a first fastener 61, and the second mounting hole 213 is adapted to be connected to the cab floor 402 through a second fastener 62. The upper bracket 22 is also provided with a third mounting hole 2211. The third mounting hole 2211 is connected to the instrument tube beam 401 through a third fastener 63. At least one of the first mounting hole 212, the second mounting hole 213 and the third mounting hole 2211 is an elongated hole.

[0070] Specifically, the first fastener 61 passes through the first mounting hole 212 of the lower bracket 21 and is connected to the instrument tube beam 401; the second fastener 62 passes through the second mounting hole 213 of the lower bracket 21 and is connected to the cab floor 402; and the third fastener 63 passes through the third mounting hole 2211 of the upper bracket 22 and is connected to the instrument tube beam 401. The first fastener 61, the second fastener 62 and the third fastener 63 can be bolts, rivets or pins.

[0071] Meanwhile, at least one of the first mounting hole 212, the second mounting hole 213 and the third mounting hole 2211 is an elongated hole. When the bracket assembly 2 is assembled to the vehicle body 40, the upper bracket 22 and the lower bracket 21 can be adjusted relative to the vehicle body 40 at the corresponding elongated hole positions, so as to ensure the smooth assembly of the upper bracket 22 and the lower bracket 21 when there is an error in the size of the vehicle body 40.

[0072] Reference Figure 5 As shown, the upper bracket 22 includes an upper fixed plate 221 and an upper adjusting plate 222. The upper fixed plate 221 has two third mounting holes 2211. The upper adjusting plate 222 is fixedly connected to the upper fixed plate 221. The upper adjusting plate 222 is located between the two third mounting holes 2211. The upper adjusting plate 222 is constructed as a U-shaped plate and forms a U-shaped groove. The upper adjusting plate 222 has tilt adjustment grooves 2221 on the two opposite groove walls of the U-shaped groove.

[0073] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the upper column 11 has a protrusion 111, which is inserted into the U-shaped groove of the upper adjusting plate 222. The protrusion 111 has a height adjusting groove 1111, and the upper connecting pin 4 passes through the height adjusting groove 1111 and the two tilt angle adjusting grooves 2221.

[0074] Reference Figure 3 and 7As shown, the locking adjustment component 5 is installed on the upper connecting pin 4. The locking adjustment component 5 clamps or releases the upper adjusting plate 222 on the upper connecting pin 4. When the locking adjustment component 5 is switched to the locked state, it clamps the upper adjusting plate 222 on the outside of the upper adjusting plate 222, narrowing the U-shaped groove of the upper adjusting plate 222 and clamping the protrusion 111 of the upper tube column 11, thus fixing the upper tube column 11. When the locking adjustment component 5 is switched to the unlocked state, it releases the clamping of the upper adjusting plate 222, allowing the protrusion 111 of the upper tube column 11 to move within the U-shaped groove of the upper adjusting plate 222.

[0075] Reference Figure 3 and 7 As shown, the locking adjustment component 5 includes: a first limiting component 51, a second limiting component 52, a handle 53, a first cam 54, and a second cam 55. The first limiting component 51 and the second limiting component 52 are connected to the two ends of the upper connecting pin 4 in the axial direction. The first limiting component 51 and the second limiting component 52 can be nuts. The first cam 54 and the second cam 55 pass through the upper connecting pin 4 and are located on one side outside the U-shaped groove. The handle 53 is connected to the first cam 54. The handle 53 can drive the first cam 54 to rotate relative to the second cam 55. The first cam 54 and the second cam 55 have a wedge structure that cooperates with each other. When the first cam 54 rotates relative to the second cam 55, the dimensions of the first cam 54 and the second cam 55 in the axial direction of the upper connecting pin 4 can be changed, thereby realizing the clamping and loosening of the upper adjusting plate 222.

[0076] For example, when the handle 53 is pushed upward, the handle 53 drives the first cam 54 to rotate counterclockwise relative to the second cam 55. The axial dimensions of the first cam 54 and the second cam 55 on the upper connecting pin 4 increase, so as to squeeze the upper adjusting plate 222 to narrow its U-shaped groove and clamp the protrusion 111 of the upper tube column 11, thereby fixing the upper tube column 11 and achieving the locking state.

[0077] When the handle 53 is pushed down, the handle 53 drives the first cam 54 to rotate clockwise relative to the second cam 55. The axial dimensions of the first cam 54 and the second cam 55 on the upper connecting pin 4 are reduced, so that the U-shaped groove opening distance of the upper adjusting plate 222 is increased. The protrusion 111 of the upper column 11 can move in the U-shaped groove of the upper adjusting plate 222, thereby achieving the unlocked state.

[0078] In other embodiments, the locking adjustment member 5 may also be a nut that is threadedly engaged with the upper connecting pin 4, which clamps and loosens the upper adjustment plate 222 by rotating the nut.

[0079] The steering system according to a third aspect of the present invention includes the steering column assembly 10 of the above embodiments.

[0080] According to the steering system of this utility model embodiment, the upper column 11 is provided with a height adjustment groove 1111, and the lower column 12 is provided with a tilt adjustment hole 121. Along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111, the upper column 11 is movable relative to the lower column 12, and the upper steering shaft 13 is movable relative to the lower steering shaft 14. The steering column assembly 10 of this steering system can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel 20, and the structure of the steering column assembly 10 is stable and reliable, which is conducive to improving the stability and reliability of the steering system.

[0081] In some embodiments of this utility model, reference is made to Figures 1-4 As shown, the steering system also includes a steering wheel 20, an intermediate shaft 30, and a steering actuator. The steering wheel 20 is connected to the upper steering shaft 13, and the lower steering shaft 14 is connected to the steering actuator through the intermediate shaft 30. When the steering wheel 20 is turned, the torque can be transmitted to the steering actuator in sequence through the upper steering shaft 13, the lower steering shaft 14, and the intermediate shaft 30, and the steering actuator drives the wheels to steer.

[0082] In some embodiments of this utility model not shown in the figures, the steering system is a steer-by-wire system, which includes: a steering column assembly 10, a steering wheel 20, a feedback motor, a controller, and a steering actuator. The steering wheel 20 is drivenly connected to the upper steering shaft 13, and the lower steering shaft 14 is drivenly connected to the feedback motor. The feedback motor is used to provide simulated road feel to the steering wheel 20 through the steering column 1. The steering column 1 integrates a torque angle sensor, which acquires the operation signal of the steering wheel 20 and sends it to the controller. The controller controls the steering actuator to control the steering of the wheels.

[0083] For the steer-by-wire system, the lower end of the lower steering shaft 14 is connected to the feedback motor and the reduction mechanism on the feedback motor. The lower end of the steering column 1 has a large load. The bracket assembly 2 achieves a hinge structure with the tilt adjustment hole 121 at the lower end of the steering column 1 through the lower connecting pin 3. This can effectively support the lower end of the steering column 1, reduce the risk of vibration of the steering column 1 and the steering wheel 20, avoid abnormal vibration and noise of the steering column 1 and the steering wheel 20, and ensure the NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) performance of the vehicle 100.

[0084] The vehicle 100 according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes the steering system described above.

[0085] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle 100 has an upper column 11 with a height adjustment groove 1111 and a lower column 12 with a tilt adjustment hole 121. The upper column 11 is movable relative to the lower column 12 along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove 1111, and the upper steering shaft 13 is movable relative to the lower steering shaft 14. The steering column assembly 10 of this steering system can realize the height and tilt adjustment of the steering wheel 20, and the structure of the steering column assembly 10 is stable and reliable, thereby helping to reduce the risk of abnormal vibration and noise in the vehicle 100.

[0086] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification.

[0087] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steering column, characterized in that, include: Upper tubular column (11), wherein the upper tubular column (11) is provided with a height adjustment groove (1111); The lower tube column (12) is connected to the upper tube column (11), and the upper tube column (11) is movable relative to the lower tube column (12) along the extension direction of the height adjustment slide (1111). The lower tube column (12) is provided with an inclination adjustment hole (121). Upper steering shaft (13), which is rotatably inserted through the upper tube column (11); The lower steering shaft (14) is rotatably inserted through the lower column (12), the upper steering shaft (13) is connected to the lower steering shaft (14) in a driving connection, and the upper steering shaft (13) is movable relative to the lower steering shaft (14) along the extension direction of the height adjustment groove (1111).

2. The steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, At the connection between the upper pipe column (11) and the lower pipe column (12), one of the upper pipe column (11) and the lower pipe column (12) is sleeved on the outside of the other, and the two are fitted with a gap.

3. The steering column according to claim 1, characterized in that, At the connection between the upper steering shaft (13) and the lower steering shaft (14), one of the upper steering shaft (13) and the lower steering shaft (14) has an internal spline (131), and the other has an external spline that engages with the internal spline (131).

4. The steering column according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The steering column also includes: Upper bearing (15) is disposed inside the upper column (11), and the upper steering shaft (13) is rotatably connected to the upper column (11) through the upper bearing (15); The lower bearing (16) is disposed inside the lower column (12), and the lower steering shaft (14) is rotatably connected to the lower column (12) through the lower bearing (16).

5. A steering column assembly, characterized in that, include: A steering column, wherein the steering column is the steering column according to any one of claims 1-4; The bracket assembly (2) is fixedly connected to the vehicle body (40), and the bracket assembly (2) is provided with an angle adjustment groove (2221) and an angle connection hole (211); The lower connecting pin (3) is used to rotatably connect the tilt angle adjustment hole (121) to the tilt angle connection hole (211). Upper connecting pin (4), the upper connecting pin (4) passes through the tilt adjustment slide (2221) and the height adjustment slide (1111); The locking adjustment member (5) has an unlocked state and a locked state. In the unlocked state, the upper column (11) and the bracket assembly (2) are movably connected by the upper connecting pin (4). In the locked state, the locking adjustment member (5) fixes the upper column (11) and the bracket assembly (2) in place.

6. The steering column assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The support assembly (2) includes: The lower bracket (21) is connected between the instrument tube beam (401) of the vehicle body (40) and the cab floor (402) of the vehicle body (40), and the lower bracket (21) is provided with the tilt connection hole (211); The upper bracket (22) is connected to the instrument tube beam (401), and the upper bracket (22) is provided with the tilt adjustment groove (2221).

7. The steering column assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The tilt adjustment groove (2221) extends in an arc shape around the axis of the tilt connection hole (211).

8. The steering column assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The lower bracket (21) is also provided with a first mounting hole (212) and a second mounting hole (213). The first mounting hole (212) is connected to the instrument tube beam (401) through a first fastener (61), and the second mounting hole (213) is connected to the cab floor (402) through a second fastener (62). The upper bracket (22) is also provided with a third assembly hole (2211), which is connected to the instrument tube beam (401) by a third fastener (63); At least one of the first assembly hole (212), the second assembly hole (213), and the third assembly hole (2211) is constructed as an elongated hole.

9. A steering system, characterized in that, Includes the steering column assembly according to any one of claims 5-8.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the steering system according to claim 9.

Images