Dust cover assembly, steering intermediate shaft sealing structure, and vehicle

Abstract

This application discloses a vehicle having a dust cover assembly and a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure. The dust cover assembly includes a cover body, one end of which is fitted to connect to the front cowl panel of the vehicle and the other end of which has a mounting hole; a sealing member; and a bushing disposed between the hole wall of the mounting hole and the sealing member, wherein the sealing member is fitted to seally connect to the steering intermediate shaft of the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the priority of Chinese Patent Application No. 202310957782.7, filed on July 31, 2023, and entitled "DUST COVER ASSEMBLY, STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT SEALING STRUCTURE AND VEHICLE", which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application relates to the field of steering shaft sealing technology, and relates to a dust cover assembly, a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure, and a vehicle.

Background Art

[0003] In related technologies, a dust cover sealing structure for a steering intermediate shaft is disclosed, which includes a steering intermediate shaft, a front wall panel assembly, and a dust cover assembly. The steering intermediate shaft penetrates outwards from the front wall panel assembly, and the dust cover assembly is sleeved on the steering intermediate shaft. The dust cover assembly includes a dust cover and a sealing member. One end of the dust cover is fixed to the front wall panel assembly, and the other end of the dust cover is connected to the steering intermediate shaft. A sealing assembly is disposed within the dust cover and is sealingly connected to the steering intermediate shaft.

[0004] In the dust cover sealing structure for the steering intermediate shaft in related technologies, the support strength of the sealing lip of the sealing member is insufficient. When the radius error is large, a gap is generated between the sealing lip and the steering intermediate shaft, resulting in a decrease in sealing performance or even a sealing failure.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved in this application is that in dust cover sealing structures for steering intermediate shafts in related art, the support strength of the sealing lip is insufficient, and if the radial error is large, a gap is created between the sealing lip and the steering intermediate shaft, resulting in a decrease in sealing performance or even sealing failure. Accordingly, a dust cover assembly, a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure, and a vehicle are provided.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application, in one aspect, A cover body, with one end fitted to connect to the vehicle's front cowl panel and the other end having mounting holes, Sealing member and A bushing positioned between the hole wall of a mounting hole and a sealing member, wherein the sealing member is adapted to be sealedly connected to the steering intermediate shaft of a vehicle, and A dust cover assembly is provided, including the following.

[0007] Optionally, multiple outer ribs are arranged on the outer surface of the bushing and extend along the axial direction of the bushing. and / or, Multiple internal ribs are positioned on the inner wall surface of the bushing and extend along the axial direction of the bushing.

[0008] Optionally, outer and inner ribs are positioned on the housing, with multiple outer ribs spaced at equal intervals, multiple inner ribs spaced at equal intervals, and the spacing between adjacent outer ribs is greater than the spacing between adjacent inner ribs.

[0009] Optionally, an annular mounting groove is formed in the wall of the mounting hole, and the bushing and sealing member are placed within the mounting groove.

[0010] Optionally, a first boss and a second boss are positioned on the wall of the mounting hole to form a mounting groove.

[0011] Optionally, the end surface of the bushing furthest from the second boss in the axial direction of the bushing abuts against the surface of the first boss facing the second boss. Alternatively, the end surface of the bushing closer to the second boss in the axial direction of the bushing abuts against the surface of the second boss facing the first boss.

[0012] Optionally, the bushing includes a bushing body and a flange connected to the bushing body, the flange projecting radially inward from the first and second bosses.

[0013] Optionally, the sealing member includes an annular body portion and a sealing lip. The sealing lip is connected to the inner wall surface of the annular body portion.

[0014] The annular body portion is sealed to the inner wall surface of the bushing, and the sealing lip is adapted to make sealed contact with the steering intermediate shaft.

[0015] Optionally, the sealing member further includes a second support ring. A groove for attaching the second support ring is formed in the annular body portion or the sealing lip, and the second support ring is configured to provide support strength to the sealing lip.

[0016] Optionally, the sealing member further includes a first support ring.

[0017] An axial boss extending along the axial direction is positioned on a first support ring, and a first groove recessed along the axial direction of the sealing lip is provided on the axial end surface of the sealing lip, and the axial boss is positioned to interfere with the first groove, and / or a radial boss extending along the radial direction of the first support ring is positioned on the first support ring, and a second groove recessed along the radial direction of the annular body portion is provided on the inner wall surface of the axial end opening of the annular body portion, and the radial boss is positioned to interfere with the second groove.

[0018] Optionally, a first lip and a second lip are formed on the radially inner surface of the sealing lip. The first and second lips are positioned at two opposing ends of the sealing lip in the axial direction. The first and second lips are adapted to make sealing contact with the steering intermediate shaft.

[0019] Optionally, a groove between the lips of the shaft sealing material is formed on the inner wall surface of the sealing lip in the axial direction, between the first lip and the second lip, and is recessed radially outward from the sealing member.

[0020] Optionally, the sealing member further includes a first support ring and a second support ring.

[0021] The axial end surface of the sealing lip is provided with a first groove recessed along the axial direction of the sealing lip, the first groove being located on the radially outer side surface of the first lip, and an axial boss being positioned on the first support ring and interfering with the first groove to support the first lip. and / or, A radially recessed support ring mounting groove is formed on the surface of the sealing lip furthest from the second lip, and the second support ring is sleeved onto the sealing lip and housed in the support ring mounting groove, used to firmly press the second lip against the steering intermediate shaft.

[0022] Optionally, the bushing is an integrally formed structure.

[0023] According to the dust cover assembly in this embodiment of the present application, the bushing is disposed between the hole wall of the mounting hole of the cover body and the sealing member, and the sealing member is adapted to be sealingly connected to the steering intermediate shaft of the vehicle. Compared with the related art, the sealing member and the bushing are sealed without including a gap. In this way, the sealing member and the cover body are relatively fixed and sealed, and the bushing can well support the sealing member and provide the support strength for the sealing member. As a result, the sealing member is in closer contact with the steering intermediate shaft, and the radial assembly error of the sealing member is reduced. This improves the sealing effect of the dust cover assembly and reduces the possibility of the failure of the sealing of the dust cover assembly.

[0024] When the vehicle is in a high-water-level immersion or floating water state, water cannot enter the cab through the dust cover assembly, which meets the IPX7 waterproof grade requirement and meets the requirements of off-road vehicles for high-water-level immersion crossing and floating water states, thereby improving the crossing safety of the vehicle.

[0025] In another aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure including a front cowl panel, a steering intermediate shaft, and the above-mentioned dust cover assembly. A through hole for the cover body to pass through is provided in the front cowl panel, one end of the cover body is sealingly connected to the front cowl panel, the steering intermediate shaft passes through the cover body, and the sealing member is sealingly connected to the steering intermediate shaft.

[0026] Optionally, a dust cover press plate is further included. The cover body includes an outer cylinder body and an inner cylinder body. A cavity is formed inside the outer cylinder body, and one end of the outer cylinder body is sealingly connected to the front cowl panel. The inner cylinder body is connected to the other end of the outer cylinder body and extends from the end surface of the other end of the outer cylinder body to the front cowl panel. The dust cover press plate is configured to press the end of the outer cylinder body against the front cowl panel. The bushing is press-fitted into the inner cylinder body, and the sealing member is press-fitted into the bushing.

[0027] Optionally, the cover body further includes a body sealing portion. The body sealing portion is connected to the end of the outer cylinder body, and the dust cover press plate is configured to press the body sealing portion against the front cowl panel.

[0028] In another aspect, an embodiment of the present application further provides a vehicle including the above-described dust cover assembly or the above-described steering intermediate shaft sealing structure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0029] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram of a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 2] It is a cross-sectional view of a dust cover assembly and a steering intermediate shaft according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 3] It is a cross-sectional view of a dust cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 4] It is a cross-sectional view of a cover body and a dust cover press plate of a dust cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 5] It is a schematic diagram of a bushing of a dust cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view of a sealing member of a dust cover assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 7]This is a cross-sectional view of the first support ring of the sealing member of a dust cover assembly according to one embodiment of the present application. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of the shaft sealing material of the sealing member of a dust cover assembly according to one embodiment of this application. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0030] To clarify the technical problems to be solved, the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects of this application, the following will describe this application in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit this application.

[0031] Refer to Figures 1 to 8. A dust cover assembly 2 provided in one embodiment of this application includes a cover body 22, a bushing 23, and a sealing member 24. One end of the cover body 22 is fitted to connect to the front cowl panel 1 of the vehicle, and the other end of the cover body 22 is provided with a mounting hole. The bushing 23 is positioned between the hole wall of the mounting hole and the sealing member 24, which is fitted to seally connect to the steering intermediate shaft 3 of the vehicle. Both the one end and the other end of the cover body 22 are free ends.

[0032] In this embodiment of the dust cover assembly 2 of the present application, the bushing 23 is positioned between the hole wall of the mounting hole of the cover body 22 and the sealing member 24, and the sealing member 24 is sealed to the bushing 23. Compared with related art, the bushing 23 and the cover body 22 are sealed without any gap. In this way, the sealing member 24 and the cover body 22 are relatively fixed and sealed, and the bushing 23 can better support the sealing member 24 and improve the support strength for the sealing member 24, so that the sealing member 24 is in closer contact with the steering intermediate shaft 3 and the radial assembly error of the sealing member 24 is reduced. This improves the sealing effect of the dust cover assembly 2 and reduces the possibility of sealing failure of the dust cover assembly 2. When the vehicle is submerged in high water or floating on water, water cannot enter the driver's cab through the dust cover assembly 2, which meets the IPX7 waterproof rating requirements and the requirements for off-road vehicles for high-water wading and floating on water, thereby improving the vehicle's wading safety.

[0033] In addition, the dust cover assembly 2 in this embodiment of the present application can further prevent external solid contaminants such as dust or other liquid contaminants from entering the cover body 22 and the operator's cabin.

[0034] In one embodiment, a dust cover press plate 21 is further included. The cover body 22 includes an outer cylinder body 22a and an inner cylinder body 22b. A cavity 225 is formed inside the outer cylinder body 22a, and one end of the outer cylinder body 22a is sealed to the front cowl panel 1. The inner cylinder body 22b is connected to the other end of the outer cylinder body 22a and extends from the end surface of the other end of the outer cylinder body 22a toward the front cowl panel 1. The dust cover press plate 21 is configured to press the end of the outer cylinder body 22a against the front cowl panel 1. A bushing 23 is press-fitted into the inner cylinder body 22b, and a sealing member 24 is press-fitted into the bushing 23.

[0035] In one embodiment, the cover body 22 further includes a body sealing portion 224. The body sealing portion 224 is connected to the end of the outer cylinder body 22a, and the dust cover press plate 21 is configured to press the body sealing portion 224 against the front cowl panel 1.

[0036] In one embodiment, the cover body 22 is integrally formed by vulcanization. Compared to a solution in which the cover body 22 and the collar are fixed to each other with adhesive, the process is simpler and the sealing reliability is better.

[0037] In one embodiment, see Figures 3 and 4. An annular mounting groove 222 is provided in the hole wall of a mounting hole at the other end of the cover body 22, and the bushing 23 and sealing member 24 are positioned within the mounting groove 222. Specifically, the annular mounting groove 222 is provided in the inner wall of the inner cylinder body 22b, and the bushing 23 is press-fitted into the mounting groove 222. In other words, the bushing 23 and the cover body 22 are fitted together by interference fit. Compared to solutions in which the bushing and collar are fixed to each other by adhesive and the sealing member and collar are fixed to each other by a clamping slot, the assembly process is simpler, the sealing reliability is better, and manufacturing costs are reduced.

[0038] In existing steering intermediate shaft sealing structures, two sealing structures are used for sealing between the sealing member and the steering intermediate shaft 3, namely, both sealing rings (K-sealing rings) are used. The K-sealing rings, bushings, and sealing members are fitted by clearance fit, and water cannot be completely prevented from entering the cover body 22 through the gap. In the dust cover assembly 2 of this embodiment of the present application, the sealing member 24 and bushing 23 are assembled by interference press fit, which can completely prevent water from entering the cover body 22 through the mating surface of the cover body 22, has better sealing performance and meets the IPX7 waterproof rating requirements.

[0039] In one embodiment, the dust cover press plate 21 is formed by stamping DC01 (cold rolled steel sheet) material, and the body sealing portion 224 of the cover body 22 is firmly attached to the front cowl panel 1 through bolt / nut fastening connections, thereby sealing the dust cover assembly 2 and the front cowl panel 1. To improve sealing performance, ribs are arranged on the surface of the body sealing portion 224 facing the front cowl panel 1.

[0040] In one embodiment, the cover body 22 is integrally formed by vulcanization of EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).

[0041] Cavity 225 is used to avoid the steering intermediate shaft 3 and to ensure that there is a sufficient safety distance between cavity 225 and the steering intermediate shaft 3.

[0042] In one embodiment, the bushing is an integrally formed structure. For example, the bushing 23 is integrally formed by injection molding of a glass fiber reinforced nylon material.

[0043] In one embodiment, refer to Figures 3 and 4. The first boss 221 and the second boss 223 are positioned on the wall of the mounting hole to form a mounting groove 222. That is, the other end of the cover body 22 closer to the front cowl panel 1 extends radially inward into the cover body 22 to form the first boss 221, and the other end of the cover body 22 extends radially inward into the cover body 22 to form the second boss 223. Specifically, one end of the inner cylinder body 22b closer to the front cowl panel 1 extends radially inward into the inner cylinder body 22b to form the first boss 221. The second boss 223 is positioned between the first boss 221 and the end portion of the cover body 22 furthest from the front cowl panel 1 in the axial direction of the cover body 22. Specifically, the second boss 223 is positioned between the first boss 221 and the end of the inner cylinder body 22b that is furthest from the front cowl panel 1 in the axial direction of the cover body 22. The mounting groove 222 is formed between the first boss 221 and the second boss 223. In this way, the cross-section of the mounting groove 222 is C-shaped, and since the first boss 221 and the second boss 223 are in an interference fit with the bushing 23, the bushing 23 may be tightened securely.

[0044] In one embodiment, both the first boss 221 and the second boss 223 are annular.

[0045] In one embodiment, refer to Figures 3 to 5. The bushing 23 is annular. The end surface 234 of the bushing 23 that is farther from the second boss 223 in the axial direction abuts against the surface of the first boss 221 that faces the second boss 223. The end surface 233 of the bushing 23 that is closer to the second boss 223 in the axial direction abuts against the surface of the second boss 223 that faces the first boss 221. In this way, the bushing 23 is press-fitted into the mounting groove 222.

[0046] In one embodiment, referring to Figures 3 to 5, the cross-section of the bushing 23 is L-shaped, and the bushing 23 includes a bushing body 23a and a flange 23b connected to the bushing body 23a, the flange 23b projecting radially inward from the first boss 221 and the second boss 223. The flange 23b is connected to one end of the bushing body 23a near the first boss 221 and extends radially inward to the bushing 23. The flange 23b projectes from the mounting groove 222, and the end surface of the bushing body 23a near the second boss 223 is placed within the mounting groove 222. The flange 23b is configured to abut the top end surface of the sealing member 24, and the bottom end surface of the sealing member 24 abuts the second boss 223, thereby limiting the axial displacement of the sealing member 24.

[0047] The outer circumferential surface 231 of the bushing body 23a, the opposite axial end surface 233 of the bushing 23, and the axial end surface 234 of the bushing 23 are attachment surfaces for mounting to the cover body 22, and are all mounted by interference fit. The three surfaces are in a C-shaped interference fit so that the bushing 23 is securely and firmly fixed within the cover body 22. The flange bottom surface 235 and the inner wall surface 236 of the bushing body 23a are used for mounting the inner sealing member 24, ensuring that the sealing member 24 is interference-fitted inside the flange bottom surface 235 and the inner wall surface 236 of the bushing body 23a, preventing solid / liquid contaminants such as water and dust from passing through the mating surface of the sealing member 24, thereby achieving a sealing effect. The inner side surface 238 of the flange is positioned radially away from the steering intermediate shaft 3 to ensure that the steering intermediate shaft 3 does not interfere with the bushing 23 during rotation.

[0048] In one embodiment, refer to Figures 3 to 5. A plurality of outer ribs 232 are arranged on the outer peripheral surface 231 of the bushing body 23a and extend along the axial direction of the bushing 23. The outer ribs 232 further provide an anti-rotation function to the interference fit between the bushing 23 and the cover body 22, thereby avoiding relative rotation between the bushing 23 and the cover body 22 and improving sealing reliability. A plurality of inner ribs 237 are arranged on the inner wall surface 236 of the bushing 23 and extend along the axial direction of the bushing 23. The inner ribs 237 further provide an anti-rotation function to the interference fit between the bushing 23 and the sealing member 24, thereby avoiding relative rotation between the bushing 23 and the sealing member 24 and improving sealing reliability.

[0049] The outer rib 232 may be recessed in the cover body 22 to seal the cover body 22 and the bushing 23. The inner rib 237 may be recessed in the sealing member 24 to seal the bushing 23 and the sealing member 24.

[0050] In one embodiment, refer to Figure 5. Multiple outer ribs 232 are arranged at equal intervals, and multiple inner ribs 237 are arranged at equal intervals, with the spacing between adjacent outer ribs 232 being greater than the spacing between adjacent inner ribs 237.

[0051] In one embodiment, the sealing member 24 includes an annular body portion 242 and a sealing lip 2422. The sealing lip 2422 is connected to the inner wall surface of the annular body portion 242 and extends radially inward toward the annular body portion 242. The annular body portion 242 is sealed to the inner wall surface of the bushing 23.

[0052] In one embodiment, the sealing member 24 further includes a second support ring 243. A groove for attaching the second support ring 243 is formed in the annular body portion 242 or the sealing lip 2422, and the second support ring 243 is configured to provide support strength to the sealing lip 2422.

[0053] In one embodiment, refer to Figures 6 to 8. The sealing member 24 further includes a first support ring 241, on which an axial boss 2414 extending along the axial direction is positioned. A first groove 24214 recessed along the axial direction of the sealing lip 2422 is provided on the surface of one end of the sealing lip 2422 in the axial direction, and the axial boss 2414 is positioned to interfere with the first groove 24214 to restrict the radial movement of the first support ring 241 and the annular body portion 242. The first support ring 241 is assembled to interfere with an opening at one end of the annular body portion 242 near the second boss 223, and the annular body portion 242 is assembled to interfere with a bushing 23. The sealing member 24 and bushing 23 are fitted together by an interference fit, and the amount of interference effectively prevents solid / liquid contaminants such as water and dust from entering the cover body 22 and the driver's chamber through the mounting fitting surface between the sealing member 24 and the bushing 23, thereby achieving a sealing effect. The first support ring 241 is integrally formed by injection molding of glass fiber reinforced nylon material.

[0054] In one embodiment, the first support ring 241 is connected to the end of the sealing lip 2422 near the second boss 223 to provide support strength to the sealing lip 2422.

[0055] In one embodiment, see Figures 6 and 8. The annular body portion 242 includes a body portion 2421 and a holder 2423. The body portion 2421 encloses the holder 2423, which is configured to increase the strength of the annular body portion 242 and support the sealing lip 2422.

[0056] In one embodiment, see Figures 6 and 8. The sealing lip 2422 is annular, and a first lip 24215 and a second lip 24217 are formed on the radially inner surface of the sealing lip 2422. The first lip 24215 and the second lip 24217 are located at two opposing ends in the axial direction of the sealing lip 2422. The first lip 24215 is connected to one end of the inner wall surface of the annular body portion 242 near the first support ring 241 and extends inward into the annular body portion 242. The second lip 24217 is connected to one end of the inner wall surface of the annular body portion 242 farther from the first support ring 241 and extends inward into the annular body portion 242. Double sealing between the sealing member 24 and the steering intermediate shaft 3 can be achieved through sealing contact between the two lips and the steering intermediate shaft 3.

[0057] In one embodiment, refer to Figure 8. The shaft sealant lip groove 24216 is formed on the inner wall surface of the sealing lip 2422 in the axial direction, between the first lip 24215 and the second lip 24217, and is recessed radially outward from the sealing member 24. The shaft sealant lip groove 24216 is provided to avoid excessive contact between the sealing lip 2422 and the steering intermediate shaft 3 and to reduce rotational torque.

[0058] The first groove 24214 is positioned on the radially outer side of the first lip 24215 to support the first lip 24215.

[0059] In one embodiment, refer to Figures 6 to 8. The sealing member 24 further includes a first support ring 241 provided with a radial boss 2412. A second groove 24211 is provided on the inner wall surface of the axial end opening of the annular body portion 242, recessed along the radial direction of the annular body portion 242. The radial boss 2412 is positioned to interfere with the second groove 24211 in order to restrict the axial movement of the first support ring 241 and the annular body portion 242.

[0060] Refer in particular to Figures 6 to 8. The inner wall surface of the opening at one end of the annular body portion 242 near the front cowl panel 1 has a support ring mounting side surface 24212 extending along the axial direction of the annular body portion 242, and a support ring mounting bottom surface 24213 extending along the radial direction of the annular body portion 242. The support ring mounting bottom surface 24213 is connected to one end of the support ring mounting side surface 24212 furthest from the first boss 221. The support ring mounting side surface 24212 is provided with a second groove 24211 recessed radially outward from the annular body portion 242. The surface of the first support ring 241 includes the support ring outer side surface 2411, the support ring top surface 2416, the support ring bottom surface 2413, and the support ring inner side surface 2415. The outer side surface 2411 of the support ring is connected between the top surface 2416 of the support ring and the outer edge of the bottom surface 2413 of the support ring. The inner side surface 2415 of the support ring is connected between the top surface 2416 of the support ring and the inner edge of the bottom surface 2413 of the support ring. The outer side surface 2411 of the support ring is provided with a radial boss 2412 that protrudes radially outward from the first support ring 241. The outer side surface 2411 of the support ring abuts against the mounting side surface 24212 of the support ring, and the bottom surface 2413 of the support ring abuts against the mounting bottom surface 24213 of the support ring.

[0061] In one embodiment, refer to Figures 6 to 8. The support ring mounting bottom surface 24213 is provided with a first groove 24214 recessed along the axial direction of the annular body portion 242, away from the front cowl panel 1. The support ring bottom surface 2413 is provided with an axial boss 2414 protruding along the axial direction of the first support ring 241, away from the front cowl panel 1. The axial boss 2414 is press-fitted into the first groove 24214 to restrict the radial movement of the first support ring 241 and the annular body portion 242.

[0062] The first support ring 241 is mounted through an interference fit between the annular body portion 242 and the outer side surface 2411 of the support ring, the radial boss 2412, the bottom surface 2413 of the support ring, and the axial boss 2414. In addition, the radial boss 2412 provides axial restriction to prevent axial movement of the first support ring 241. In this way, the first support ring 241 is firmly fixed within the annular body portion 242, and the inner side surface 2415 of the support ring is at a sufficient radial distance from the steering intermediate shaft 3 to ensure that the steering intermediate shaft 3 does not interfere with the first support ring 241 during rotation.

[0063] In one embodiment, the first groove 24214 is located on the radially outer side of the first lip 24215 to support the first lip 24215.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the dust cover assembly 2 further includes a second support ring 243, in which a deformation avoidance space 244 is formed between the sealing lip 2422 and the annular body portion 242. A support ring mounting groove 24218, recessed away from the deformation avoidance space 244, is formed on the surface of the sealing lip 2422, away from the second lip 24217. The second support ring 243 is sleeved onto the sealing lip 2422 and accommodated in the support ring mounting groove 24218. The second support ring 243 is used to firmly press the second lip 24217 against the steering intermediate shaft 3.

[0065] In one embodiment, the second support ring 243 is an annular spring. The annular spring is used as a standard component, and its material and size are selected to ensure that the annular spring provides appropriate radial clamping force at the position where the second lip 24217 is radially tight-fitted with the steering intermediate shaft 3. This not only satisfies the IPX7 rating requirement for sealing performance between the second lip 24217 and the steering intermediate shaft 3, but also satisfies the specified rotational torque between the second lip 24217 and the steering intermediate shaft 3. The groove structure of the support ring mounting groove 24218 ensures stable mounting of the annular spring and prevents the annular spring from falling out.

[0066] However, in another embodiment, a rubber band, rubber ring, or elastic hoop may be used instead of an annular spring.

[0067] In one embodiment, the annular body portion 242 is formed by a DC01 L-shaped steel structural liner and vulcanization of NBR (Nitrile Butadiene Rubber) rubber. The holder 2423 is formed by stamping DC01 material, and its structure is L-shaped, thereby improving the strength of the holder 2423. The holder 2423 is then used as a liner, and a body portion 2421 made of NBR rubber is vulcanized on the outside of the holder 2423 to obtain the annular body portion 242. The second groove 24211, the support ring mounting side surface 24212, the support ring mounting bottom surface 24213, and the first groove 24214 are mounting attachment surfaces for interlocking with the first support ring 241. Since the NBR material has good elasticity, the four attachment surfaces, namely the second groove 24211, the support ring mounting side surface 24212, the support ring mounting bottom surface 24213, and the first groove 24214, have a specific amount of elastic compression in the case of interference fit, providing sufficient pressing force. In addition, the axial movement of the first support ring 241 is effectively restricted through the interference fit between the second groove 24211 and the radial boss 2412, resulting in a more secure mounting. The interference fit between the first groove 24214 and the axial boss 2414 effectively supports the radial interference fit mounting between the first lip 24215 and the steering intermediate shaft 3, providing a specific inward radial pressing force to ensure the sealing performance of the first lip 24215. This prevents solid / liquid contaminants such as water and dust from entering the cover body 22 and the driver's cabin through the meshing area between the first lip 24215 and the steering intermediate shaft 3, thereby achieving a sealing effect. The position of the first lip 24215 is designed for use with grease, allowing for smoother rotation of the steering intermediate shaft 3. At the same time, the waterproof performance of the first lip 24215 is improved. The NBR material has excellent oil resistance and high wear resistance, and as a result, the sealing reliability and durability of the first lip 24215 are better ensured.The groove 24216 between the lips of the shaft sealant is provided to avoid excessive contact between the groove 24216 and the steering intermediate shaft 3, thereby reducing rotational torque. The top end surface 24219 of the shaft sealant, the outer side surface 24220 of the shaft sealant, and the bushing 23 are connected through a two-sided interference fit. The NBR material has good elasticity, and as a result, the interference fit between the top end surface 24219 of the shaft sealant, the outer side surface 24220 of the shaft sealant, and the bushing 23 has sufficient pressing force. This prevents solid / liquid contaminants such as water and dust from entering the cover body 22 and the driver's cab through the fitting surface between the annular body portion 242 and the bushing 23, thereby achieving a sealing effect. The bottom end surface 24221 of the shaft sealant is fitted in an interference fit with the second boss 223 of the cover body 22, thereby further stabilizing the tight axial fit between the annular body portion 242 and the bushing 23 and increasing the axial restriction of the annular body portion 242 relative to the bushing 23. The second lip 24217 is fitted in a radial interference fit with the steering intermediate shaft 3. The radial clamping force provided by the annular spring mounted on the support ring mounting groove 24218, coupled with the grease applied to the second lip 24217, ensures the sealing performance between the second lip 24217 and the steering intermediate shaft 3. This effectively prevents solid / liquid contaminants such as water and dust from entering the cover body 22 and the driver's cab through the meshing area between the second lip 24217 and the steering intermediate shaft 3, thus meeting the IPX7 waterproof rating requirement.

[0068] See also Figure 1. One embodiment of the present application further provides a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure, comprising a front cowl panel 1, a steering intermediate shaft 3, and a dust cover assembly 2 in the above-described embodiment. A through-hole is provided in the front cowl panel 1 for a cover body 22 to pass through, one end of the cover body 22 is sealed to the front cowl panel 1, the steering intermediate shaft 3 passes through the cover body 22, and a sealing member 24 is sealed to the steering intermediate shaft 3.

[0069] Specifically, the gap between the cover body 22 and the inner wall of the through-hole is sealed by the body sealing portion 224.

[0070] Specifically, the steering intermediate shaft 3 passes through the inner cylinder body 22b, the outer cylinder body 22a, and the dust cover press plate 21.

[0071] In addition, one embodiment of the present application further provides a vehicle including the dust cover assembly 2 in the above-described embodiment or the steering intermediate shaft sealing structure in the above-described embodiment.

[0072] The foregoing description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made without departing from the spirit and principles of the present application shall also fall within the scope of the protection of the present application. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1. Front cowl panel 2 Dust cover assembly 21 Dust cover press plate 22 Cover body 22a Outer cylinder 22b Inner cilia 221 First Boss 222 Mounting groove 223 Second Boss 224 Body sealing part 225 Cavity 23 Bushing 23a Bushing 23b Flange 231 Outer surface of the bushing 232 Outer rib 233 Surface of the opposite axial end of the bushing 234 Axial end surface of bushing 235 Flange bottom surface 236 Inner wall surface of bushing 237 Inner Rib 238 Flange inner side surface 24 Sealing member 241 First support ring 2411 Support ring outer side surface 2412 Radial Boss 2413 Support ring bottom surface 2414 Axial Boss 2415 Inner side surface of support ring 2416 Support ring top surface 242 Ring-shaped main body 2421 Body parts 24211 Second groove 24212 Support ring mounting side surface 24213 Support ring mounting bottom surface 24214 First groove 24215 First Lip 24216 Shaft sealing material lip groove 24217 Second Lip 24218 Support ring mounting groove 24219 Shaft sealing material top end surface 24220 Shaft sealing material outer side surface 2422 Sealing Lip 24221 Shaft sealing material bottom end surface 2423 Holder 243 Second support ring 244 Deformation Avoidance Space 3. Steering intermediate shaft

Claims

1. A dust cover assembly for a vehicle, A cover body (22) is provided, with one end fitted to connect to the front cowl panel (1) of the vehicle and the other end having a mounting hole. Sealing member (24) and A bushing (23) is positioned between the hole wall of the mounting hole and the sealing member (24), wherein the sealing member (24) is fitted to be sealedly connected to the steering intermediate shaft (3) of the vehicle, A dust cover assembly equipped with [a specific feature].

2. Multiple outer ribs (232) are arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the bushing (23) and extend along the axial direction of the bushing (23), and / or, Multiple inner ribs (237) are arranged on the inner wall surface of the bushing (23) and extend along the axial direction of the bushing (23). The dust cover assembly according to claim 1.

3. The dust cover assembly according to claim 2, wherein the outer ribs (232) and the inner ribs (237) are arranged on the bushing (23), the plurality of outer ribs (232) are arranged at equal intervals, the plurality of inner ribs (237) are arranged at equal intervals, and the distance between adjacent outer ribs (232) is greater than the distance between adjacent inner ribs (237).

4. The dust cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein an annular mounting groove (222) is formed in the wall of the mounting hole, and the bushing (23) and the sealing member (24) are arranged within the mounting groove (222).

5. The dust cover assembly according to claim 4, wherein the first boss (221) and the second boss (223) are positioned on the wall of the mounting hole to form the mounting groove (222).

6. The dust cover assembly according to claim 5, wherein the end surface of the bushing (23) that is farther from the second boss (223) in the axial direction abuts against the surface of the first boss (221) facing the second boss (223), and the end surface of the bushing (23) that is closer to the second boss (223) in the axial direction abuts against the surface of the second boss (223) facing the first boss (221).

7. The dust cover assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the bushing (23) comprises a bushing body (23a) and a flange (23b) connected to the bushing body (23a), and the flange (23b) protrudes radially inward from the first boss (221) and the second boss (223).

8. The sealing member (24) comprises an annular body portion (242) and a sealing lip (2422), the sealing lip (2422) being connected to the inner wall surface of the annular body portion (242), The dust cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the annular body portion (242) is sealedly connected to the inner wall surface of the bushing (23), and the sealing lip (2422) is adapted to make sealed contact with the steering intermediate shaft (3).

9. The dust cover assembly according to claim 8, wherein the sealing member (24) further comprises a second support ring (243), a groove for attaching the second support ring (243) is formed in the annular body portion (242) or the sealing lip (2422), and the second support ring (243) is configured to provide support strength to the sealing lip (2422).

10. The sealing member (24) further comprises a first support ring (241), A dust cover assembly according to claim 8 or 9, wherein an axial boss (2414) extending in the axial direction is positioned on the first support ring (241), a first groove (24214) recessed in the axial direction of the sealing lip (2422) is provided on the axial end surface of the sealing lip (2422), and the axial boss (2414) is positioned to interfere with the first groove (24214), and / or a radial boss (2412) extending in the radial direction of the first support ring (241) is positioned on the first support ring (241), a second groove (24211) recessed in the radial direction of the annular body portion (242) is provided on the inner wall surface of the axial end opening of the annular body portion (242), and the radial boss (2412) is positioned to interfere with the second groove (24211).

11. The dust cover assembly according to claim 8, wherein a first lip (24215) and a second lip (24217) are formed on the radially inner surface of the sealing lip (2422) and are positioned at two opposing ends in the axial direction of the sealing lip (2422) and are adapted to make sealing contact with the steering intermediate shaft (3).

12. The dust cover assembly according to claim 11, wherein the shaft sealing material lip groove (24216) is formed on the inner wall surface of the sealing lip (2422) in the axial direction, at a position between the first lip (24215) and the second lip (24217), and is recessed radially outward of the sealing member (24).

13. The sealing member (24) further comprises a first support ring (241) and a second support ring (243), A first groove (24214) is provided on the axial end surface of the sealing lip (2422) along the axial direction of the sealing lip (2422), the first groove (24214) is located on the radially outer side surface of the first lip (24215), and an axial boss (2414) extending along the axial direction is positioned on the first support ring (241) and is positioned to interfere with the first groove (24214) in order to support the first lip (24215). and / or, The dust cover assembly according to claim 11, wherein a radially recessed support ring mounting groove (24218) is formed on the surface of the sealing lip (2422) away from the second lip (24217), and the second support ring (243) is sleeved on the sealing lip (2422), housed in the support ring mounting groove (24218), and used to firmly press the second lip (24217) against the steering intermediate shaft (3).

14. The dust cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the bushing (23) has an integrally formed structure.

15. A steering intermediate shaft sealing structure comprising a front cowl panel (1), a steering intermediate shaft (3), and a dust cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a through hole is provided in the front cowl panel (1) for the steering intermediate shaft (3) to pass through, one end of the cover body (22) is sealed to the front cowl panel (1), the steering intermediate shaft (3) passes through the cover body (22), and the sealing member (24) is sealed to the steering intermediate shaft (3).

16. The dust cover press plate (21) is further provided, and the cover body (22) comprises an outer cylinder body (22a) and an inner cylinder body (22b), a cavity (225) formed inside the outer cylinder body (22a), one end of the outer cylinder body (22a) is sealedly connected to the front cowl panel (1), the inner cylinder body (22b) is connected to the other end of the outer cylinder body (22a), and the outer cylinder body (2 The steering intermediate shaft sealing structure according to claim 15, wherein the dust cover press plate (21) extends from the end surface of the other end of 2a) toward the front cowl panel (1), the dust cover press plate (21) is configured to press the end of the outer cylinder body (22a) toward the front cowl panel (1), the bushing (23) is press-fitted into the inner cylinder body (22b), and the sealing member (24) is press-fitted into the bushing (23).

17. The steering intermediate shaft sealing structure according to claim 16, wherein the cover body (22) further comprises a body sealing portion (224), the body sealing portion (224) is connected to the end of the outer cylinder body (22a), and the dust cover press plate (21) is configured to press the body sealing portion (224) against the front cowl panel (1).

18. A vehicle comprising a dust cover assembly (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 or a steering intermediate shaft sealing structure according to any one of claims 15 to 17.

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