Instrument panel assembly adjustment device, instrument panel assembly and vehicle

Abstract

An instrument panel assembly adjustment device, comprising a base fixed to a vehicle body, a connecting bracket connecting an instrument panel to a steering column (14), and a linkage bracket (5) connected to the connecting bracket and moving up and down with the connecting bracket, wherein the base comprises left and right guide plates (2-1); the linkage bracket (5) is hinged to the left and right sides of the connecting bracket by means of hinge components; the linkage bracket (5) has a left side surface arranged opposite the left guide plate (2-1) and a right side surface arranged opposite the right guide plate (2-1); and guiding engagement structures for guiding engagement in a vertical direction are respectively provided between the left side surface of the linkage bracket (5) and the left guide plate (2-1) and between the right side surface of the linkage bracket (5) and the right guide plate (2-1). Further disclosed are an instrument panel assembly and a vehicle. Guiding engagement positions between the linkage bracket (5) and the guide plates (2-1) are changed to be set between the side surfaces of the linkage bracket (5) opposite the guide plates (2-1), such that it is unnecessary to provide elongated holes in the guide plates (2-1), thereby solving the problem of the elongated holes being easily worn and thus affecting the guiding effect.

Description

Instrument panel assembly adjustment device, instrument panel assembly and vehicle Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to an instrument panel assembly adjustment device, an instrument panel assembly, and a vehicle, belonging to the field of vehicle technology. Background Technology

[0002] The comfort of the driver's area is related to the driver's occupational health and is very important for buses. Currently, most mainstream buses in China are equipped with an adjustable dashboard assembly. By adjusting the height and angle of the dashboard assembly, drivers of different heights and builds can drive in a healthy and comfortable posture.

[0003] For example, Chinese utility model patent CN221562807U discloses an instrument panel assembly adjustment structure and a vehicle. The instrument panel assembly adjustment structure includes a base for fixed connection to the vehicle body, a connecting bracket for connecting the instrument panel and steering column, and a linkage bracket connected to the connecting bracket and moving up and down with it. A height adjustment drive mechanism for driving the connecting bracket to move up and down is installed between the base and the connecting bracket. An angle adjustment drive mechanism for driving the connecting bracket to swing back and forth around its connection position with the height adjustment drive mechanism is connected between the connecting bracket and the linkage bracket. In use, under the control of the height adjustment drive mechanism, the connecting bracket and the linkage bracket move up and down to adjust the height of the instrument panel and steering wheel, and the angle adjustment drive mechanism moves up and down with the connecting bracket and the linkage bracket. When the connecting bracket moves to the target height position, activating the angle adjustment drive mechanism causes the connecting bracket to swing back and forth around its connection position with the height adjustment drive mechanism, thereby adjusting the front and rear angles of the instrument panel and steering wheel.

[0004] In the aforementioned patent, in order to guide the vertical movement of the linkage bracket, three elongated holes extending vertically are respectively opened on the left and right side walls of the base (i.e., guide plates). The first and third connecting shafts between the connecting bracket and the linkage bracket, as well as the second connecting shaft between the linkage bracket and the angle adjustment drive mechanism, pass through the corresponding elongated holes and cooperate with the elongated holes for vertical guidance. The first, second, and third connecting shafts are all bolts. Since the bolts directly slide in contact with the corresponding elongated holes, the friction is relatively large, which will cause wear to the elongated holes over time and affect the guiding effect. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide an instrument panel assembly adjustment device to solve the problem in the prior art where the connecting shaft and the elongated hole are directly contacted and fitted to guide the linkage bracket, which causes the elongated hole to wear easily and affects the guiding effect; the purpose of this application is also to provide an instrument panel assembly and a vehicle to solve the above problems.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the instrument panel assembly adjustment device in this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] The instrument panel assembly adjustment device includes a base for fixing to the vehicle body, a connecting bracket for connecting the instrument panel and the steering column, and a linkage bracket connected to the connecting bracket and moving up and down together with the connecting bracket. The base includes two guide plates, left and right. The linkage bracket and the left and right sides of the connecting bracket are hinged by hinge components. The linkage bracket has a left side arranged opposite to the left guide plate and a right side arranged opposite to the right guide plate. The left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate are respectively provided with guide engagement structures that guide and engage in the up and down direction.

[0008] The beneficial effects of the above technical solution are as follows: This application is an invention that changes the relationship between elements. It changes the position of the linkage bracket and the guide plate. Instead of the original guide plate having a long hole and the linkage bracket being guided through the long hole and the connecting shaft of the linkage bracket, the linkage bracket now has a left side opposite to the left guide plate and a right side opposite to the right guide plate. The left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate are respectively provided with a guide engagement structure that guides the linkage bracket in the vertical direction. That is, the position of the guide engagement is changed to be between the opposite sides of the linkage bracket and the guide plate. This eliminates the need to open a long hole on the guide plate and solves the problem that the long hole is easy to wear and affects the guiding effect.

[0009] Furthermore, the guiding fit structure is a rolling guiding fit structure.

[0010] Furthermore, the rolling guide mating structure includes ball grooves respectively disposed on the guide plate and the linkage bracket, and balls disposed in the ball grooves.

[0011] Furthermore, the ball grooves on the linkage bracket and the guide plate have the same depth and the same width.

[0012] Furthermore, the ball bearings in the ball bearing grooves on the linkage bracket and guide plate are provided with two or more balls.

[0013] Furthermore, the hinged component includes a bolt that passes through the guide plate, the connecting bracket, and the linkage bracket, as well as a guide sleeve sleeved on the outside of the bolt. The through hole on the guide plate for the bolt to pass through is an elongated hole extending vertically, and the guide sleeve contacts and engages with the wall of the elongated hole.

[0014] Furthermore, the guide sleeve includes a rectangular segment with a rectangular outer contour and a circular segment with a circular outer contour. The circular segment is connected to the rectangular segment, and the two opposite sides of the rectangular segment are in contact with the two opposite hole walls of the elongated hole. The connecting bracket includes two left and right connecting arms that are hinged to the linkage bracket. The two connecting arms and the linkage bracket are located between two guide plates. A groove with a width greater than the width of the elongated hole is provided on the outer surface of the guide plate at the opening position of the elongated hole. The circular segment is located in the groove and is stopped and engaged with the head of the bolt or a washer fitted on the bolt.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, the instrument panel assembly in this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0016] The instrument panel assembly includes an instrument panel, a steering column, and an adjustment device for adjusting the height and fore-aft angle of the instrument panel and the steering column. The adjustment device includes a base for fixing to the vehicle body, a connecting bracket for connecting the instrument panel and the steering column, and a linkage bracket connected to the connecting bracket and moving up and down together with the connecting bracket. The base includes two guide plates, left and right. The linkage bracket is hinged to the left and right sides of the connecting bracket through hinge components. The linkage bracket has a left side arranged opposite to the left guide plate and a right side arranged opposite to the right guide plate. A guide engagement structure for vertical guidance engagement is provided between the left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and between the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate.

[0017] The beneficial effects of the above technical solution are as follows: This application is an improved invention, which further limits the adjustment device. The position of the linkage bracket and the guide plate in the adjustment device is changed from the original guide plate having an elongated hole and the linkage bracket being guided through the elongated hole and the connecting shaft of the linkage bracket to the linkage bracket having a left side opposite to the left guide plate and a right side opposite to the right guide plate. The left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate are respectively provided with a guide engagement structure that guides in the vertical direction. That is, the guide engagement position is changed to be set between the sides of the linkage bracket and the guide plate. In this way, it is not necessary to open an elongated hole on the guide plate, which solves the problem that the elongated hole is easy to wear and affects the guiding effect.

[0018] Furthermore, the guiding fit structure is a rolling guiding fit structure.

[0019] Furthermore, the rolling guide mating structure includes ball grooves respectively disposed on the guide plate and the linkage bracket, and balls disposed in the ball grooves.

[0020] Furthermore, the ball grooves on the linkage bracket and the guide plate have the same depth and the same width.

[0021] Furthermore, the ball bearings in the ball bearing grooves on the linkage bracket and guide plate are provided with two or more balls.

[0022] Furthermore, the hinged component includes a bolt that passes through the guide plate, the connecting bracket, and the linkage bracket, as well as a guide sleeve sleeved on the outside of the bolt. The through hole on the guide plate for the bolt to pass through is an elongated hole extending vertically, and the guide sleeve contacts and engages with the wall of the elongated hole.

[0023] Furthermore, the guide sleeve includes a rectangular segment with a rectangular outer contour and a circular segment with a circular outer contour. The circular segment is connected to the rectangular segment, and the two opposite sides of the rectangular segment are in contact with the two opposite hole walls of the elongated hole. The connecting bracket includes two left and right connecting arms that are hinged to the linkage bracket. The two connecting arms and the linkage bracket are located between two guide plates. A groove with a width greater than the width of the elongated hole is provided on the outer surface of the guide plate at the opening position of the elongated hole. The circular segment is located in the groove and is stopped and engaged with the head of the bolt or a washer fitted on the bolt.

[0024] To achieve the above objectives, the vehicle in this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0025] The vehicle includes a vehicle body and an instrument panel assembly mounted on the vehicle body. The instrument panel assembly includes an instrument panel, a steering column, and an adjustment device for adjusting the height and fore-aft angle of the instrument panel and the steering column. The adjustment device includes a base for fixing to the vehicle body, a connecting bracket for connecting the instrument panel and the steering column, and a linkage bracket connected to the connecting bracket and moving up and down together with the connecting bracket. The base includes two guide plates, left and right. The linkage bracket is hinged to the left and right sides of the connecting bracket by hinge components. The linkage bracket has a left side arranged opposite to the left guide plate and a right side arranged opposite to the right guide plate. A guide engagement structure for vertical guidance engagement is provided between the left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and between the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate.

[0026] The beneficial effects of the above technical solution are as follows: This application is an improved invention, which further limits the adjustment device. The position of the linkage bracket and the guide plate in the adjustment device is changed from the original guide plate having an elongated hole and the linkage bracket being guided through the elongated hole and the connecting shaft of the linkage bracket to the linkage bracket having a left side opposite to the left guide plate and a right side opposite to the right guide plate. The left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate are respectively provided with a guide engagement structure that guides in the vertical direction. That is, the guide engagement position is changed to be set between the sides of the linkage bracket and the guide plate. In this way, it is not necessary to open an elongated hole on the guide plate, which solves the problem that the elongated hole is easy to wear and affects the guiding effect.

[0027] Furthermore, the guiding fit structure is a rolling guiding fit structure.

[0028] Furthermore, the rolling guide mating structure includes ball grooves respectively disposed on the guide plate and the linkage bracket, and balls disposed in the ball grooves.

[0029] Furthermore, the ball grooves on the linkage bracket and the guide plate have the same depth and the same width.

[0030] Furthermore, the ball bearings in the ball bearing grooves on the linkage bracket and guide plate are provided with two or more balls.

[0031] Furthermore, the hinged component includes a bolt that passes through the guide plate, the connecting bracket, and the linkage bracket, as well as a guide sleeve sleeved on the outside of the bolt. The through hole on the guide plate for the bolt to pass through is an elongated hole extending vertically, and the guide sleeve contacts and engages with the wall of the elongated hole.

[0032] Furthermore, the guide sleeve includes a rectangular segment with a rectangular outer contour and a circular segment with a circular outer contour. The circular segment is connected to the rectangular segment, and the two opposite sides of the rectangular segment are in contact with the two opposite hole walls of the elongated hole. The connecting bracket includes two left and right connecting arms that are hinged to the linkage bracket. The two connecting arms and the linkage bracket are located between two guide plates. A groove with a width greater than the width of the elongated hole is provided on the outer surface of the guide plate at the opening position of the elongated hole. The circular segment is located in the groove and is stopped and engaged with the head of the bolt or a washer fitted on the bolt. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 is a perspective view of Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application from one angle; Figure 2 is a rear view of Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application; Figure 3 is a left view of Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application; Figure 4 is a left sectional view of Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application (the sectional plane passes through the second ball groove on the left fixed seat); Figure 5 is a perspective view of Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application from another angle (the left fixed seat is not shown); Figure 6 is a sectional view of the linkage bracket and two fixed seats in Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application; Figure 7 is a perspective view of the guide sleeve in Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application; Figure 8 is a perspective view of the linkage bracket in Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application; Figure 9 is a perspective view of the fixed seat in Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application from one angle; Figure 10 is a perspective view of the fixed seat in Embodiment 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device of this application from another angle.

[0034] In the diagram: 1. Base plate; 1-1. First bending plate; 1-2. Second bending plate; 2. Fixing seat; 2-1. Guide plate; 2-2. Second elongated hole; 2-3. Second ball groove; 2-4. Second boss; 2-5. Countersunk groove; 3. Pipe column connecting frame; 3-1. Connecting arm; 3-2. Connecting cylinder; 3-3. Connecting plate; 4. Instrument panel connecting frame; 4-1. First support plate; 4-2. Second support plate; 4-3. Dynamic locking plate; 4-4. Mounting plate; 5. Linkage bracket; 5-1. Linkage plate; 5-2. Linkage side wall; 5-3. Hinge arm; 5-4. Protrusion; 5-5. Hinge seat; 5-6. First ball groove; 5-7. First boss; 6. Second rotating block; 7. Second clamping block; 8. First rotating block; 9. First clamping block; 10. Height adjustment motor; 11. Static locking plate; 11-1. First elongated hole; 12. Angle adjustment motor; 13. Angle adjustment screw; 14. Directional column; 15. Mounting shaft; 16. Cylinder; 17. First jacking sleeve; 18. Pad; 19. Fixing nut; 20. Second jacking sleeve; 21. Adjusting nut; 22. Locking nut; 23. Crossbeam; 24. Bolt; 25. Guide sleeve; 25-1. Rectangular section; 25-2. Circular section; 26. Ball bearing; 27. First mounting base; 28. First pin; 29. ​​Second mounting base; 30. Second pin; 31. Height adjustment screw. Detailed Implementation

[0035] To address the technical problems existing in the prior art, the basic concept of this application is to change the guiding engagement position of the linkage bracket and the guide plate to be set between the opposite sides of the linkage bracket and the guide plate, eliminating the need to open long holes on the guide plate and solving the problem that long holes are prone to wear and affect the guiding effect.

[0036] The features and performance of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments.

[0037] Example 1 of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device in this application:

[0038] As shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, the instrument panel assembly adjustment device includes a base for fixed connection with the vehicle body and a connecting bracket for connecting the instrument panel and the steering column 14. The base includes a base plate 1 and two fixing seats 2 fixed on the base plate 1. Each fixing seat 2 includes a guide plate 2-1, and the two guide plates 2-1 are arranged parallel to each other. The base plate 1 is provided with a connecting structure for fixed connection with the vehicle body. This connecting structure is specifically a second bent plate 1-2. The base plate 1 is fixedly connected to the crossbeam 23 (shown in Figure 3) in front of the vehicle cab through the second bent plate 1-2.

[0039] The connecting bracket includes a column connecting frame 3 for connecting to the steering column 14 and an instrument panel connecting frame 4 for connecting to the instrument panel. The column connecting frame 3 is located behind the instrument panel connecting frame 4 and is fixed to the instrument panel connecting frame 4. The column connecting frame 3 includes two connecting arms 3-1 on the left and right sides, a connecting cylinder 3-2 for connecting to the steering column 14, and a connecting plate 3-3 for connecting to the instrument panel connecting frame 4. The two connecting arms 3-1 are located between two guide plates 2-1. A linkage bracket 5 is also provided between the two guide plates 2-1. The linkage bracket 5 is hinged to the column connecting frame 3. A height adjustment drive mechanism for driving the linkage bracket 5, the column connecting frame 3, and the instrument panel connecting frame 4 to move up and down together is connected between the linkage bracket 5 and the base. Referring to Figure 8, the linkage bracket 5 includes a linkage plate 5-1 and linkage sidewalls 5-2 connected to the left and right sides of the linkage plate 5-1. Hinged arms 5-3 are provided on the two linkage sidewalls 5-2 respectively. The two hinged arms 5-3 are respectively hinged to the two connecting arms 3-1 through hinge components.

[0040] The linkage bracket 5 has a left side opposite to the left guide plate 2-1 and a right side opposite to the right guide plate 2-1. Guide mating structures are respectively provided between the left side of the linkage bracket 5 and the left guide plate 2-1, and between the right side of the linkage bracket 5 and the right guide plate 2-1, for vertical guidance. This changes the position of the guidance mating between the linkage bracket 5 and the guide plate 2-1. Previously, the guide plate had a long hole through which the linkage bracket was guided via its connecting shaft. Now, the guidance is achieved by setting a guide mating structure between the opposing sides of the linkage bracket and the guide plate. This eliminates the need for a long hole on the guide plate, solving the problem of wear and tear and reduced guiding effectiveness associated with long holes.

[0041] Furthermore, the aforementioned guiding and mating structure is a rolling guiding and mating structure, which reduces friction, facilitates smoother movement, and allows for a reduction in the configuration of the height adjustment drive mechanism. Specifically, as shown in Figures 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10, the guiding and mating structure includes a first ball groove 5-6 extending vertically and closed at both ends on each linkage sidewall 5-2, and a second ball groove 2-3 extending vertically and closed at both ends on each guide plate 2-1. The first ball groove 5-6 and the second ball groove 2-3 on both sides are arranged opposite to each other, and the ball grooves contain balls 26 that are adapted to the groove width. The sum of the groove depths of the first ball groove 5-6 and the second ball groove 2-3 is equal to the diameter of the ball 26. This not only achieves vertical guidance between the linkage bracket 5 and the guide plate 2-1, but also reduces friction during their relative movement, and simultaneously determines the limit position of the vertical movement of the linkage bracket 5.

[0042] Furthermore, the depth and width of the first ball groove 5-6 and the second ball groove 2-3 are equal, which facilitates the machining of the ball grooves and the installation of the balls 26. Simultaneously, there are more than two balls 26 in each ball groove on one side; in this embodiment, there are three. This is because the first ball groove 5-6 and the second ball groove 2-3 do not extend vertically but rather at an angle. When the linkage bracket 5, the column connecting bracket 3, and the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 are adjusted into position, their weight will act on the groove wall through the balls 26. Therefore, increasing the number of balls 26 can improve the support effect, but the number should not be excessive, otherwise it will affect the vertical movement stroke of the linkage bracket 5.

[0043] Additionally, as shown in Figure 8, a first boss 5-7 is protruding from the outer surface of each linkage sidewall 5-2. The aforementioned first ball groove 5-6 is located at the position of the first boss 5-7, avoiding excessive reduction of the wall thickness of the linkage sidewall 5-2 due to the excessive presence of the first ball groove 5-6. Similarly, as shown in Figure 9, a second boss 2-4 is protruding from the inner surface of each guide plate 2-1. The aforementioned second ball groove 2-3 is located at the position of the second boss 2-4, avoiding excessive reduction of the wall thickness of the guide plate 2-1 due to the excessive presence of the second ball groove 2-3.

[0044] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the aforementioned hinge component includes a hinge shaft passing through the guide plate 2-1, connecting arm 3-1, and hinge arm 5-3, and a guide sleeve 25 sleeved on the hinge shaft. In this embodiment, a bolt 24 is used as the hinge shaft. The through holes on the guide plate 2-1 and connecting arm 3-1 are smooth holes, while the through hole on the hinge arm 5-3 is a threaded hole. The bolt 24 mates with the threaded hole on the hinge arm 5-3, making assembly more convenient. Of course, in other embodiments, the through holes on the guide plate 2-1, connecting arm 3-1, and hinge arm 5-3 can all be smooth holes, and the bolt 24 passes through all three before the nut is installed.

[0045] The through hole on the guide plate 2-1 for the bolt 24 to pass through is a second elongated hole 2-2 extending vertically. The guide sleeve 25 contacts and engages with the wall of the second elongated hole 2-2 to prevent the bolt 24 from directly contacting the wall of the second elongated hole 2-2 and causing wear on the hole wall. It should be noted that the two rows of ball bearings 26 on the left and right sides of the linkage bracket 5 actually guide the vertical movement of the linkage bracket 5. Since the hinge component between the linkage bracket 5 and the column connecting frame 3 passes through the guide plate 2-1, the guide plate 2-1 must be provided with a through hole. In order not to affect the vertical movement of the linkage bracket 5 and the column connecting frame 3, the through hole must be an elongated hole. Therefore, the most basic function of the elongated hole is to avoid the hinge component. It is perfectly acceptable for the hinge component not to engage with the elongated hole for guidance.

[0046] However, in this embodiment, in order to enhance the guiding effect and make the guide sleeve 25 guide and cooperate with the second elongated hole 2-2, as shown in Figure 7, the guide sleeve 25 includes a rectangular segment 25-1 with a rectangular outer contour cross section. The two opposite sides of the rectangular segment 25-1 contact and cooperate with the two opposite hole walls of the second elongated hole 2-2, resulting in a larger contact area. This is because the second elongated hole 2-2 does not extend vertically but rather extends obliquely. When the linkage bracket 5, the column connecting bracket 3, and the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 are adjusted into place, their weight will act on the hole wall of the second elongated hole 2-2 through the guide sleeve 25. Therefore, choosing to make the guide sleeve 25 contact the hole wall surface of the second elongated hole 2-2 can increase the support area and is beneficial to the stability of the support.

[0047] The guide sleeve 25 also includes a circular segment 25-2 with a circular cross-section, which is connected to the rectangular segment 25-1. As shown in Figures 3 and 10, a groove 2-5 with a width greater than the width of the second elongated hole 2-2 is provided on the outer surface of the guide plate 2-1 at the opening position of the second elongated hole 2-2. The circular segment 25-2 is located in the groove 2-5 and engages with the washer fitted on the bolt 24. This position of the guide sleeve 25 can be determined, facilitating its installation. In other embodiments, the washer may not be fitted on the bolt 24, in which case the circular segment 25-2 directly engages with the head of the bolt 24.

[0048] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the height adjustment drive mechanism includes a height adjustment motor 10 hinged to the base plate 1 and a height adjustment lead screw 31 driven to rotate by the height adjustment motor 10. A first mounting base 27 is fixed on the base plate 1, and the height adjustment motor 10 is hinged to the first mounting base 27 via a first pin 28. A rotatable first rotating block 8 is installed at the middle position in the left-right direction of the linkage bracket 5. The height adjustment lead screw 31 passes through the first rotating block 8 and is threadedly engaged with the first rotating block 8. The rotation axis of the first rotating block 8 and the hinge axis of the height adjustment motor 10 (i.e., the axis of the first pin 28) both extend in the left-right direction.

[0049] The first rotating block 8 includes a first connecting part and first mounting parts located at the left and right ends of the first connecting part. The first connecting part is provided with a first threaded hole that engages with the height adjustment screw 31. A pair of first clamping blocks 9 are fixed on the linkage bracket 5. The first mounting parts at both ends of the first rotating block 8 are respectively located between the pair of first clamping blocks 9 and the linkage bracket 5. The first mounting parts and the first clamping blocks 9, as well as the first mounting parts and the linkage bracket 5, are all rotated and engaged by arc surfaces. This facilitates the rotational installation of the first rotating block 8 and simplifies the structure. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, a protrusion 5-4 is provided on the linkage plate 5-1, and the arc surface on the linkage bracket 5 is provided on the protrusion 5-4.

[0050] An angle adjustment drive mechanism is connected between the linkage bracket 5 and the instrument panel connecting frame 4 to drive the column connecting frame 3 and the instrument panel connecting frame 4 to swing back and forth around bolt 24 (i.e., the hinge position between the column connecting frame 3 and the linkage bracket 5), as shown in Figures 1, 2, and 4. The angle adjustment drive mechanism includes an angle adjustment motor 12 hinged to the instrument panel connecting frame 4 and an angle adjustment screw 13 driven by the angle adjustment motor 12. A second mounting base 29 is fixed on the instrument panel connecting frame 4, and the angle adjustment motor 12 is hinged to the second mounting base 29 via a second pin 30. Referring to Figure 8, a hinge seat 5-5 is provided in the middle of the linkage bracket 5 in the left-right direction and on the side facing away from the first rotating block 8. A rotatable second rotating block 6 is mounted on the hinge seat 5-5. The angle adjustment screw 13 passes through the second rotating block 6 and is threadedly engaged with the second rotating block 6. The rotation axis of the second rotating block 6 and the hinge axis of the angle adjustment motor 12 (i.e., the axis of the second pin 30) both extend in the left-right direction.

[0051] The structure of the second rotating block 6 is the same as that of the first rotating block 8, including a second connecting part and second mounting parts located at the left and right ends of the second connecting part. The second connecting part is provided with a second threaded hole that is threadedly connected to the angle adjusting screw 13. A pair of second clamping blocks 7 are fixed on the hinge seat 5-5. The second mounting parts at both ends of the second rotating block 6 are respectively located between the pair of second clamping blocks 7 and the hinge seat 5-5. The second mounting parts are rotated and engaged with the second clamping blocks 7 and the second mounting parts are engaged with the hinge seat 5-5 through arc surfaces, which facilitates the rotational installation of the second rotating block 6 and simplifies the structure.

[0052] In this application, there is only one angle adjusting screw 13, which has a relatively simple structure and can reduce configuration costs. At the same time, the second rotating block 6 is located in the middle of the linkage bracket 5 in the left-right direction, that is, the connection position between the angle adjusting screw 13 and the linkage bracket 5 is located in the middle of the left-right direction of the linkage bracket 5; the second mounting base 29 is fixed in the middle of the left-right direction of the instrument panel connecting frame 4, that is, the connection position between the angle adjusting motor 12 and the instrument panel connecting frame 4 is located in the middle of the left-right direction of the instrument panel connecting frame 4. This makes the force application more central and can more smoothly drive the instrument panel connecting frame 4 and the column connecting frame 3 to swing back and forth.

[0053] Furthermore, the connection position of the angle adjustment motor 12 and the instrument panel connecting frame 4 is located at the front of the instrument panel connecting frame 4, so that the distance from the connection position of the angle adjustment motor 12 and the instrument panel connecting frame 4 to the axis of the bolt 24 is far enough, which increases the power arm of the instrument panel connecting frame 4 and the column connecting frame 3 to swing back and forth, making angle adjustment more labor-saving, and thus reducing the configuration cost of the angle adjustment drive mechanism.

[0054] As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the instrument panel connecting frame 4 includes a first support plate 4-1 and a second support plate 4-2 connected at an angle. The second support plate 4-2 is located behind the first support plate 4-1 and is fixed to the column connecting frame 3. A vertically continuous window is provided in the middle of the first support plate 4-1. An upwardly extending mounting plate 4-4 is connected to the front edge of the window. The second mounting base 29 is fixed on the mounting plate 4-4. The angle adjustment motor 12 spans both sides of the window. This not only achieves a relatively forward connection position between the angle adjustment motor 12 and the instrument panel connecting frame 4, but also facilitates the arrangement of the angle adjustment motor 12. Furthermore, the angle adjustment motor 12 does not occupy too much space in the height direction, making the structure relatively compact.

[0055] In addition, first bending plates 1-1 are respectively provided on the left and right sides of the base plate 1, and each first bending plate 1-1 is connected to a static locking plate 11. The left and right sides of the first support plate 4-1 are provided with movable locking plates 4-3 located between the two static locking plates 11. The movable locking plates 4-3 on both sides are equipped with pneumatic locking support devices that can press and fix the movable locking plates 4-3 to the corresponding static locking plates 11 and can release the pressure after air is introduced. The working principle of the pneumatic locking support device is similar to the cylinder elastic pressing assembly disclosed in patent CN110466353B. It mainly includes a mounting shaft 15, a cylinder 16, a first push sleeve 17, and a second push sleeve 20. The cylinder 16 spans both sides of the window. The mounting shaft 15 passes through the cylinder 16, the movable locking plate 4-3, and the static locking plate 11. The two ends of the mounting shaft 15 that pass through the static locking plate 11 are respectively fitted with pads 18 and fixed nuts 19. The first push sleeve 17 is fitted onto the mounting shaft 15 and located on one side of the cylinder 16 between the cylinder and the movable locking plate 4-3. The second push sleeve 20 is fitted onto the mounting shaft 15 and located on the other side of the cylinder 16 between the cylinder and the movable locking plate 4-3. The second push sleeve 20 includes a threaded section, on which an adjusting nut 21 and a locking nut 22 are installed. A spring is installed inside the cylinder 16. When air is not supplied, the first push sleeve 17 and the adjusting nut 21, under the action of the spring, respectively press the movable locking plates 4-3 on both sides, pressing and fixing the movable locking plates 4-3 onto the stationary locking plate 11. After air is supplied, the first push sleeve 17 and the adjusting nut 21 are released from pressure, and the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 can move relative to the base plate 1.

[0056] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the through hole on the static locking plate 11 for the mounting shaft 15 to pass through is a first elongated hole 11-1 extending vertically. There is sufficient clearance between the mounting shaft 15 and the first elongated hole 11-1. This clearance allows the column connecting bracket 3 and the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 to swing back and forth around the bolt 24.

[0057] The working principle of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device in this application is as follows:

[0058] In use, when it is necessary to adjust the vertical height of the steering column and instrument panel, first, control the air supply to the cylinder 16 to release the lock on the instrument panel connecting bracket 4, and then turn on the height adjustment motor 10. The height adjustment motor 10 drives the height adjustment screw 31 to rotate. Under the action of the screw and nut mechanism, the first rotating block 8 moves up and down along the height adjustment screw 31, thereby driving the linkage bracket 5, the steering column connecting bracket 3, and the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 to move up and down, realizing the height adjustment of the steering column and instrument panel. During the adjustment process, the second elongated hole 2-2 on the guide plate 2-1 and the ball bearing 26 between the linkage bracket 5 and the guide plate 2-1 guide the vertical movement of the linkage bracket 5, the steering column connecting bracket 3, and the instrument panel connecting bracket 4. After the adjustment is in place, the height adjustment motor 10 stops working, and at the same time, the cylinder 16 stops supplying air. The pneumatic locking support device presses the moving locking plates 4-3 on both sides to fix the position of the steering column and instrument panel.

[0059] When adjusting the forward and backward angles of the steering column and instrument panel, first, air is supplied to the cylinder 16 to release the lock on the instrument panel connecting bracket 4. Then, the angle adjustment motor 12 is activated, driving the angle adjustment screw 13 to rotate. Under the action of the screw and nut mechanism, the second rotating block 6 moves linearly along the angle adjustment screw 13, thereby pulling or pushing the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 and the steering column connecting bracket 3 to swing back and forth around the bolt 24, thus achieving angle adjustment of the steering column and instrument panel. The clearance between the mounting shaft 15 and the first elongated hole 11-1 is sufficient to meet the swing stroke requirements of the instrument panel connecting bracket 4 and the steering column connecting bracket 3. After adjustment, the angle adjustment motor 12 stops working, and the cylinder 16 stops supplying air. The pneumatic locking support device presses the moving locking plates 4-3 on both sides, fixing the position of the steering column and instrument panel.

[0060] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the guide sleeve can also be a cylindrical sleeve, with the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical sleeve directly contacting the wall of the elongated hole on the guide plate.

[0061] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the bolts in the hinged components may no longer be fitted with guide sleeves, and the bolts directly contact the wall of the elongated hole on the guide plate.

[0062] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: a pin can be selected as the hinge component. In this case, the pin directly contacts the wall of the elongated hole on the guide plate. To prevent the pin from falling off, cotter pins or snap rings need to be installed at both ends of the pin.

[0063] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: regardless of whether the hinge component is a pin or a bolt, the hinge component and the wall of the elongated hole on the guide plate can not be in contact, but have a gap, that is, the hinge component and the elongated hole do not guide each other. At this time, the linkage bracket is guided only by the guiding fit structure between the left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and between the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate.

[0064] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the guide plate may not have a protrusion on its side, and the ball groove on the guide plate may be directly set on the flat side of the guide plate.

[0065] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the side of the linkage bracket may not have a protrusion, and the ball groove on the linkage bracket may be directly set on the flat side of the linkage bracket.

[0066] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: two balls can be provided in the ball grooves on the linkage bracket and guide plate. Of course, depending on the specific length of the ball groove, four or more balls can also be provided. In other embodiments, only one ball can be provided. In this case, two or more ball grooves need to be provided on one side, with one ball in each of the opposite ball grooves, to ensure that the linkage bracket can be guided.

[0067] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the groove depths and widths of the ball grooves on the linkage bracket and guide plate may be unequal. For example, one ball groove may be wider and deeper, while the other may be narrower and shallower. In this case, the sum of the groove depths of the two ball grooves is still equal to the diameter of the ball, and the groove widths of the ball grooves are adapted to the part where the ball is embedded, so they still have a guiding function. However, in order to ensure that the ball can be installed into the wider and deeper ball groove, a through groove needs to be machined on the linkage bracket or guide plate. After the ball is installed from one side of the through groove, a sealing plate is installed to prevent the ball from coming out.

[0068] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the rolling guide mating structure can also be that rollers are installed on the side of the linkage bracket, and roller grooves for the rollers to move are provided on the guide plate. This can also achieve the guiding effect and the friction is relatively small.

[0069] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the guide fit structure can also be a sliding guide fit structure, in which case a slider is provided on one side of the linkage bracket and the guide plate, and a groove that guides and fits with the slider is provided on the other side.

[0070] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device, a sliding guide fit structure and a rolling guide fit structure can also be used in combination.

[0071] In other embodiments of the instrument panel assembly adjustment device: the linkage bracket, as an integral component, may include two linkage plates, left and right, and the two linkage plates are respectively located outside the two guide plates. At this time, the linkage bracket still has a left side arranged opposite to the left guide plate and a right side arranged opposite to the right guide plate. Furthermore, a guide engagement structure is provided between the left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and between the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate, respectively, for guiding engagement in the vertical direction. The guide engagement structure is the same as in the above embodiment.

[0072] The embodiment of the instrument panel assembly in this application is as follows: The instrument panel assembly includes an instrument panel, a steering column, and an adjustment device for adjusting the height and front-rear angle of the instrument panel and the steering column. The adjustment device is the same as the instrument panel assembly adjustment device in any of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0073] The vehicle embodiment in this application is as follows: the vehicle includes a vehicle body and an instrument panel assembly mounted on the vehicle body. The instrument panel assembly includes an instrument panel, a steering column, and an adjustment device for adjusting the height and front-rear angle of the instrument panel and the steering column. The adjustment device is the same as the instrument panel assembly adjustment device in any of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0074] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. The scope of patent protection of this application shall be determined by the claims. Similarly, any equivalent structural changes made based on the description and drawings of this application shall also be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. An instrument panel assembly adjustment device, characterized in that, It includes a base for fixing to the vehicle body, a connecting bracket for connecting the dashboard and steering column, and a linkage bracket connected to the connecting bracket and moving up and down together with the connecting bracket. The base includes two guide plates, left and right. The linkage bracket and the left and right sides of the connecting bracket are hinged by hinge components. The linkage bracket has a left side arranged opposite to the left guide plate and a right side arranged opposite to the right guide plate. The left side of the linkage bracket and the left guide plate, and the right side of the linkage bracket and the right guide plate are respectively provided with guide engagement structures that guide and engage in the up and down direction.

2. The instrument panel assembly adjustment device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guiding fit structure is a rolling guiding fit structure.

3. The instrument panel assembly adjustment device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The rolling guide mating structure includes ball grooves separately disposed on the guide plate and the linkage bracket, and balls disposed in the ball grooves.

4. The instrument panel assembly adjustment device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ball grooves on the linkage bracket and the guide plate have the same depth and width.

5. The instrument panel assembly adjustment device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The ball bearings in the ball bearing grooves on the linkage bracket and guide plate are provided with two or more balls.

6. The instrument panel assembly adjustment device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The hinged component includes bolts that pass through the guide plate, connecting bracket, and linkage bracket, as well as a guide sleeve sleeved on the outside of the bolt. The through hole on the guide plate for the bolt to pass through is an elongated hole extending vertically, and the guide sleeve contacts and fits with the wall of the elongated hole.

7. The instrument panel assembly adjustment device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The guide sleeve includes a rectangular segment with a rectangular outer contour and a circular segment with a circular outer contour. The circular segment is connected to the rectangular segment. The two opposite sides of the rectangular segment are in contact with the two opposite holes of the elongated hole. The connecting bracket includes two left and right connecting arms that are hinged to the linkage bracket. The two connecting arms and the linkage bracket are located between two guide plates. A groove with a width greater than the width of the elongated hole is provided on the outer side of the guide plate at the opening of the elongated hole. The circular segment is located in the groove and is stopped and engaged with the head of the bolt or a washer fitted on the bolt.

8. An instrument panel assembly, comprising an instrument panel, a steering column, and adjustment devices for adjusting the height and fore-aft angle of the instrument panel and the steering column, characterized in that, The adjustment device is the instrument panel assembly adjustment device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. A vehicle, comprising a vehicle body and an instrument panel assembly mounted on the vehicle body, the instrument panel assembly including an instrument panel, a steering column, and adjustment devices for adjusting the height and fore-aft angle of the instrument panel and the steering column, characterized in that, The adjustment device is the instrument panel assembly adjustment device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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