retractable steering wheel

Abstract

An assembly includes a steering column. The assembly includes a pair of steering handles pivotally supported by the steering column and pivotable from an extended position toward the steering column to a retracted position. The assembly includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handles to the retracted position upon detecting a triggering event.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicle steering wheels, and more particularly, to telescoping steering wheels. Background Art

[0002] A vehicle may include a steering wheel that allows an operator of the vehicle to provide input to the vehicle and control the steering angle of the vehicle's wheels. The steering wheel may take up space within the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An assembly includes a steering column. The assembly includes a pair of steering handles pivotally supported by the steering column and pivotable from an extended position toward the steering column to a retracted position. The assembly includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handles to the retracted position upon detecting a triggering event.

[0004] The triggering event may be a vehicle collision.

[0005] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to an extended position or a retracted position based on determining whether the vehicle door is in a closed position or an open position.

[0006] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position when it is determined that the vehicle engine is in an off state.

[0007] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the extended position when it is determined that the vehicle engine is on.

[0008] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to a retracted position or an extended position based on determining whether the vehicle is in autonomous mode or manual mode.

[0009] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to inflate the airbag after pivoting the steering handle to the retracted position.

[0010] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the extended position when the vehicle seat is determined to be occupied.

[0011] The steering handles may each include a slot, and the assembly may further include a ring supported by the steering column and operatively engaged with the slots of the steering handles.

[0012] The steering column may define an axis, the ring may be movable along the axis, and movement of the ring along the axis may cause the steering handle to pivot.

[0013] The assembly may include a pair of support arms pivotally supporting the steering handle, with the ring positioned between the steering column and the support arms.

[0014] The steering column may include a shaft, and the ring and support arm may be supported by the shaft.

[0015] The assembly may include an actuator configured to move the ring along the axis.

[0016] The assembly may include an actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position.

[0017] The assembly may include a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position and to the extended position.

[0018] An assembly includes a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to actuate an actuator configured to pivot a pair of steering handles from an extended position toward a steering column to a retracted position upon detection of a triggering event.

[0019] The triggering event may be a vehicle collision.

[0020] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to actuate a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to an extended position or a retracted position based on determining whether the vehicle door is in the open position or the closed position.

[0021] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to actuate a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to an extended position or a retracted position based on determining whether the vehicle seat is occupied or unoccupied.

[0022] The memory may store instructions executable by the processor to inflate the airbag after pivoting the steering handle to the retracted position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the vehicle with the airbag in the uninflated position and the steering handle in the extended position.

[0024] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle with the airbag in the inflated position and the steering handle in the retracted position.

[0025] Figure 3 is a top view of the vehicle with the steering handle in the extended position.

[0026] Figure 4 is a top view of the vehicle with the steering handle in the retracted position.

[0027] Figure 5is a block diagram of vehicle components.

[0028] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating a process for controlling the steering handle and airbags. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] refer to Figures 1 to 5 , wherein like reference numerals indicate like parts throughout the several views, an assembly 20 for controlling a steering system 22 of a vehicle 24 includes a steering column 26 and a pair of steering handles 28 pivotally supported by the steering column 26. The steering handles 28 are pivotable from an extended position toward the steering column 26 to a retracted position. The assembly 20 includes a computer 30 having a processor and a memory. The memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handles 28 to the retracted position upon detection of a triggering event. The steering handles 28 are moved in response to the triggering event so that the steering handles 28 are in the retracted position at an advantageous time (e.g., when an occupant is likely to enter or exit the vehicle 24, when no input from the occupant to the steering handles 28 is required, when a vehicle collision is detected, etc.).

[0030] The vehicle 24 can be any passenger vehicle or commercial vehicle, such as a car, truck, sport utility vehicle, crossover, van, minivan, taxi, bus, etc. The vehicle 24 can define a longitudinal axis A1, for example, extending between the front and rear of the vehicle 24. The vehicle 24 can define a vehicle transverse axis A2, for example, extending between the right and left sides of the vehicle 24. The front, rear, right, and left sides can be relative to the orientation of occupants of the vehicle 24. The front, rear, right, and left sides can be relative to the orientation of controls used to operate the vehicle 24, such as the steering handle 28, the dashboard 32 of the vehicle 24, etc. When the wheels of the vehicle 24 are all parallel to each other, the front, rear, right, and left sides can be relative to the direction of travel of the vehicle 24, etc.

[0031] The vehicle 24 can be operated in an autonomous mode, a semi-autonomous mode, or a manual mode. For the purposes of this disclosure, the autonomous mode is defined as the computer 30 controlling each of the propulsion system 34, the braking system 36, and the steering system 22 of the vehicle 24; in the semi-autonomous mode, the computer 30 controls one or two of the propulsion system 34, the braking system 36, and the steering system 22; and in the manual mode, the occupants control the propulsion system 34, the braking system 36, and the steering system 22.

[0032] The vehicle 24 includes a passenger compartment for accommodating the occupants (if any) of the vehicle 24. The passenger compartment includes one or more seats 38, such as Figure 1 The seat 38 may be a bucket seat, a bench seat, or any other suitable type. The position and orientation of the seat 38 and its components may be adjusted by the occupant.

[0033] An instrument panel 32 may be disposed at a front end of the passenger compartment and facing the seats 38. The instrument panel 32 may include vehicle controls including the steering handle 28.

[0034] The vehicle 24 may include a roof 40, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. Roof 40 provides coverage and protection for occupants of vehicle 24. Roof 40 may include longitudinal rails extending along longitudinal axis A1. Roof 40 may include cross rails extending along vehicle transverse axis A2, for example, between the longitudinal rails. Roof 40 may include exterior panels and a roof lining. The longitudinal rails and cross rails provide support to the exterior panels and roof lining. The longitudinal rails and cross rails may be made of steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, or any other suitable material. The roof lining and exterior panels provide roof 40 with a Class A surface, i.e., a surface specifically manufactured to have a high-quality, refined, flawless aesthetic appearance.

[0035] The vehicle 24 may include one or more doors 42, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. Doors 42 may be supported by the body and / or frame of vehicle 24. Doors 42 may each be movable from a closed position to an open position (not shown), and vice versa. In the open position, doors 42 allow occupants to enter and exit the passenger compartment. In the closed position, doors 42 restrict occupants from entering and exiting the passenger compartment.

[0036] The propulsion system 34 of the vehicle 24 (e.g. Figure 5 ) converts energy into motion of vehicle 24. Propulsion system 34 may include one or more vehicle propulsion subsystems, such as a conventional drivetrain including an internal combustion engine coupled to a transmission that transmits rotational motion to wheels; an electric drivetrain including a battery, an electric motor, and a transmission that transmits rotational motion to wheels; a hybrid drivetrain including elements of a conventional drivetrain and an electric drivetrain; or any other type. The internal combustion engine may be operated in an on state (i.e., wherein the crankshaft of the engine is rotating). The internal combustion engine may be operated in an off state (i.e., wherein the crankshaft of the engine is not rotating). Propulsion system 34 communicates with computer 30 and receives input from computer 30 and occupants of vehicle 24. Occupants may control propulsion system 34 using, for example, an accelerator pedal and / or a gear shift lever.

[0037] Braking system 36 (such as Figure 524 ) resists the motion of vehicle 24, thereby slowing and / or stopping vehicle 24. Braking system 36 may include friction brakes, such as disc brakes, drum brakes, band brakes, etc.; regenerative brakes; any other suitable type of brake; or a combination thereof. Braking system 36 communicates with computer 30 and receives input from computer 30 and occupants of vehicle 24. Occupants may control braking system 36 using, for example, a brake pedal.

[0038] Steering system 22 (such as Figure 5 The steering system 22 may include a rack-and-pinion system with electric power steering, a steer-by-wire system, or any other suitable system. The steering system 22 communicates with a computer 30 and receives input from the computer 30 and from occupants of the vehicle 24. The occupants may control the steering system 22 using, for example, a steering handle 28.

[0039] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the steering column 26 transmits the rotation of the steering handle 28 to the movement of the steering system 22. The steering column 26 may include a shaft 44, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. Rotation of shaft 44 causes steering system 22 to turn the wheels. For example, shaft 44 can be operatively coupled to a rack and pinion system. As another example, sensor 64 can detect the rotational position of shaft 44 for a steer-by-wire system. Steering column 26 defines axis A3. Shaft 44 can extend along axis A3 of steering column 26.

[0040] The pair of steering handles 28 enable the occupant to control the steering system 22, for example, by rotating the shaft 44 of the steering column 26. The steering handles 28 are pivotally supported by the steering column 26. The steering handles 28 can be moved from an extended position (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 3 ) toward the steering column 26 to a retracted position (as shown Figure 2 and Figure 4 For example, the steering handle 28 may be closer to the instrument panel 32 in the retracted position than in the extended position and pivot between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0041] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 Each steering handle 28 may include an arm 46 extending outwardly from the steering column 26, for example, from the shaft 44, to a distal end. Each steering handle 28 may include a grip 48 for a passenger to grasp. The grip 48 may be supported by the arm 46, for example, fixed to the distal end. The steering handles 28 may each include a slot 50. For example, the slot 50 may be located in the arm 46.

[0042] The assembly 20 may include a pair of support arms 52. The support arms 52 may be supported by the shaft 44. The support arms 52 may extend from the shaft 44 to a distal end. The support arms 52 may extend radially from the shaft 44 relative to the axis A3. The support arms 52 may extend relative to each other from the shaft 44. The support arms 52 may be secured to the shaft 44, for example, by fasteners, welding, friction fit, etc. The support arms 52 and the shaft 44 may be integral, i.e., a single, uniform piece of material without seams, joints, fasteners, or adhesives holding the support arms 52 and the shaft 44 together. Movement of the support arms 52 about the axis A3 may cause the shaft 44 to rotate, and vice versa. The support arms 52 may be metal, plastic, or any other suitable material.

[0043] The support arms 52 can pivotally support the steering handle 28. For example, the support arms 52 can be operatively coupled to the arms 46 of the steering handle 28 such that the steering handle 28 can pivot relative to the support arms 52. For example, the support arms 52 can each include a post at a distal end, and the post can be received by a hole in the arms 46 of the steering handle 28, or vice versa. As another example, a hinge pin can rotationally couple the support arms 52 to the steering handle 28.

[0044] The assembly 20 may include a ring 54. The ring 54 may be supported by the steering column 26, such as the shaft 44. The ring 54 may be movable along the axis A3 of the steering column 26. For example, the ring 54 may slide along the shaft 44. The ring 54 may be located between the steering column 26 and the support arm 52. Movement of the ring 54 along the axis A3 causes the steering handle 28 to pivot. For example, when the ring 54 is moved away from the steering column 26, such as toward the seat 38, to the extended position, the steering handle 28 may pivot to the retracted position. When the ring 54 is moved away from the seat 38, such as toward the steering column 26, to the retracted position, the steering handle 28 may pivot to the extended position. The ring 54 may be operably engaged with the slot 50 of the steering handle 28. For example, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the ring 54 may include a pair of posts, each of which is received in one of the slots 50 of the steering handle 28. For example, as the ring 54 moves along the shaft 44, the posts may slide within the slots 50.

[0045] The assembly 20 may include a first actuator 55. The first actuator 55 may be configured to pivot the steering handle 28 to the retracted position, for example, in response to a command from the computer 30. The first actuator 55 may be a pyrotechnic actuator, or any other suitable type of actuator. For example, the first actuator 55 may include a piston and a cylinder. A pyrotechnic material may be located in the cylinder adjacent to the piston. For example, in response to a command from the computer 30, actuation of the pyrotechnic material may generate gas and push the piston in the cylinder to move the first actuator 55 from the retracted position to the extended position. For example, after a vehicle collision is detected and before the airbag 58 is deployed, the pyrotechnic actuator enables the steering handle 28 to be quickly pivoted to the retracted position.

[0046] The first actuator 55 is longer in the extended position than in the retracted position. The first actuator 55 in the extended position can position the steering handle 28 in the retracted position. The first actuator 55 can be configured to move the ring 54 along the axis A3. One end of the first actuator 55 can be connected to the ring 54, and the opposite end of the first actuator 55 can be connected to the steering column 26, the instrument panel 32, etc. Movement of the first actuator 55 from the retracted position to the extended position can push the ring 54 away from the steering column 26 and toward the seat 38, thereby moving the steering handle 28 to the retracted position.

[0047] The assembly 20 may include a second actuator 56. The adjectives "first" and "second" are used throughout this document as identifiers and are not intended to indicate importance or order. The second actuator 56 may be configured to, for example, pivot the steering handle 28 to a retracted position and to an extended position in response to a command from the computer 30. The second actuator 56 may be, for example, a mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or any other suitable type of actuator. For example, the second actuator 56 may include a rack and pinion, a piston and cylinder, a roller screw, or the like. The second actuator 56 may be movable from a retracted position to an extended position, and vice versa. The second actuator 56 in the extended position is longer than the second actuator 56 in the retracted position. The second actuator 56 in the extended position can position the steering handle 28 in the retracted position. The second actuator 56 in the retracted position can position the steering handle 28 in the extended position. The second actuator 56 may be configured to move the ring 54 along the axis A3. One end of the second actuator 56 can be connected to the ring 54, and the opposite end of the second actuator 56 can be connected to the steering column 26, the instrument panel 32, etc. Movement of the second actuator 56 from the retracted position to the extended position can push the ring 54 away from the steering column 26 and toward the seat 38, thereby moving the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. Movement of the second actuator 56 from the extended position to the retracted position can push the ring 54 toward the steering column 26 and away from the seat 38, thereby moving the steering handle 28 to the extended position.

[0048] The vehicle 24 may include an airbag 58. The airbag 58 may, for example, Figure 1 The uninflated position shown expands to Figure 2 The airbag 58 is in the inflated position shown to control the kinematics of an occupant in the vehicle 24 during a collision. The airbag 58 in the inflated position can extend along the vehicle transverse axis A2. The airbag 58 in the inflated position can be located, for example, along the longitudinal axis A1 between the seat 38 and the steering column 26.

[0049] Airbag 58 may be formed from a woven polymer or any other material. As an example, airbag 58 may be formed from woven nylon yarn (e.g., nylon 6-6). Other examples include polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), polyester, and the like. The woven polymer may include a coating such as silicone, neoprene, urethane, and the like. For example, the coating may be a polyorganosiloxane.

[0050] An inflator 60 may be coupled to the airbag 58. Upon receiving a signal from, for example, the computer 30, the inflator 60 may inflate the airbag 58 with an inflatable medium, such as a gas. The inflator 60 may be, for example, a pyrotechnic inflator that uses a chemical reaction to drive an inflation medium into the airbag 58. The inflator 60 may be of any suitable type, such as a cold air inflator.

[0051] The vehicle 24 may include an airbag housing 62. The inflator 60 and the airbag 58 in the uninflated position may be disposed in the airbag housing 62. The airbag housing 62 provides a reaction surface for the airbag 58 in the inflated position. The airbag housing 62 may be supported by any component at the roof 40 or any other suitable location on the vehicle 24. The airbag housing 62 may be formed from any suitable material (e.g., a rigid polymer, metal, a composite material, etc.).

[0052] The vehicle 24 may include sensors 64 such as Figure 5 The sensors 64 may be located at various points in or on the vehicle 24 .

[0053] Sensors 64 may detect internal conditions of the vehicle 24 such as wheel speed, wheel orientation, engine and transmission variables, rotational position of the shaft 44 relative to the instrument panel 32, etc., using, for example, proximity sensors, Hall effect sensors, etc.

[0054] Sensors 64 can detect the position or orientation of vehicle 24. For example, a global positioning system (GPS) sensor; an accelerometer, such as a piezoelectric or micro-electromechanical system (MEMS); a gyroscope, such as a rate, ring laser, or fiber optic gyroscope; an inertial measurement unit (IMU); and a magnetometer.

[0055] The sensor 64 can detect the outside world, for example, a light measuring sensor, a photometer, a microphone, a wind speed measuring sensor, a radar sensor, a scanning laser rangefinder, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) device, and an image processing sensor (such as a camera).

[0056] The sensor 64 may detect whether one or more of the doors 42 is in the open or closed position, for example, using a proximity sensor, a contact sensor, a switch, etc.

[0057] Sensors 64 can detect collisions with the vehicle 24, for example, post-collision sensors such as accelerometers, pressure sensors, and contact switches, and pre-collision sensors such as radar, lidar, and vision sensing systems. The vision system can include one or more cameras, CCD image sensors, CMOS image sensors, and the like.

[0058] The sensors 64 may detect occupancy of one or more of the seats 38. For example, the sensors 64 may be visible light or infrared cameras directed toward one or more of the seats 38, weight sensors in the seats 38, sensors that detect whether a seat belt in one of the seats 38 is buckled or unbuckled, etc.

[0059] The vehicle 24 may include a user interface 66 such as Figure 5 As shown. The user interface 66 presents information to and receives information from the occupants of the vehicle 24. The user interface 66 may be located, for example, on the instrument panel 32 in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 24, or anywhere else easily visible to the occupants. The user interface 66 may include dials, digital displays, screens (such as touch-sensitive displays), speakers, etc. for providing information to the occupants, such as human-machine interface (HMI) elements. The user interface 66 may also include buttons, knobs, keypads, microphones, etc. for receiving information from the occupants.

[0060] The vehicle 24 may include a communication network 68 such as Figure 5 The communication network 68 includes hardware, such as a communication bus, for facilitating communication between vehicle components, such as the computer 30, the first actuator 55, the second actuator 56, the steering system 22, the propulsion system 34, the braking system 36, the inflator 60, the sensors 64, the user interface 66, etc. The communication network 68 can facilitate wired or wireless communication between components of the vehicle 24 according to a variety of communication protocols, such as a controller area network (CAN), Ethernet, WiFi, a local interconnect network (LIN), and / or other wired or wireless mechanisms.

[0061] The computer 30 may be a microprocessor-based computer implemented by circuits, chips, or other electronic components. For example, the computer 30 may include a processor, a memory, etc. The memory of the computer 30 may store instructions executable by the processor and electronically stored data and / or databases.

[0062] The computer 30 may be programmed to operate the vehicle 24 in an autonomous mode. In the autonomous mode, the computer 30 navigates the vehicle 24 by sending commands to the steering system 22, the propulsion system 34, and the braking system 36 without input from an operator, such as through the steering handle 28, the brake pedal, the accelerator pedal, etc. The computer 30 may operate the vehicle 24 in the autonomous mode based on information received from sensors 64, such as through the communication network 68.

[0063] The computer 30 can be programmed to allow the operator to control the vehicle 24 in a manual mode. In manual mode, the operator controls the steering system 22, the propulsion system 34, and the braking system 36 by providing inputs to the steering handle 28, the brake pedal, the accelerator pedal, etc. In manual mode, the computer 30 can act as a relay to send the inputs provided by the operator as commands to the steering system 22, the propulsion system 34, and the braking system 36 based on the inputs. In manual mode, in addition to the inputs provided by the occupants, the computer 30 can also provide supplemental control to the steering system 22, the propulsion system 34, and the braking system 36, such as to control transmission shift points, activate anti-lock brakes, etc.

[0064] Computer 30 may be programmed to select autonomous or manual mode based on information from user interface 66. For example, an occupant may provide input indicating manual or autonomous mode to user interface 66. The user interface may transmit information indicating such selection to computer 30, such as via communication network 68.

[0065] The computer 30 can be programmed to detect a triggering event. The triggering event can be detected by the computer 30 and indicate to the computer 30 that the steering handle 28 should be pivoted to the retracted position or the extended position. For example, the triggering event can be a vehicle collision, such as detected by the computer 30 based on information received from the sensor 64, such as information received from the collision sensor via the communication network 68. As another example, the triggering event can be detecting whether the door 42 is in the open position or the closed position, such as determined by the computer 30 based on information from the sensor 64, such as a proximity sensor, contact sensor, etc. configured to detect the position of the door 42 and communicated with the computer 30 via the communication network 68. As yet another example, the triggering event can be detecting whether the seat 38 of the vehicle 24 is occupied, such as determined by the computer 30 based on information from the sensor 64, such as information from an occupancy sensor that communicates with the computer 30 via the communication network 68. As an additional example, the triggering event may be detecting whether the engine of the vehicle 24 is in an on state or in an off state, e.g., as determined by the computer 30 based on information from the sensor 64. As yet another example, the triggering event may be detecting a manual mode or an autonomous mode, e.g., as identified by the computer 30 based on information received from the user interface 66 via the communication network 68 when an occupant provides input to the user interface 66 selecting the autonomous mode or the manual mode.

[0066] The computer 30 can be programmed to pivot the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. For example, the computer 30 can send a command to the first actuator 55, such as via the communication network 68, to actuate the first actuator 55 to the extended position. As another example, the computer 30 can send a command to the second actuator 56, such as via the communication network 68, to actuate the second actuator 56 to the extended position.

[0067] The computer 30 may be programmed to pivot the steering handle 28 to the extended position. For example, the computer 30 may send instructions to the second actuator 56, such as via the communication network 68, to actuate the second actuator 56 to the retracted position.

[0068] The computer 30 can be programmed to pivot the steering handle 28 to the retracted position or the extended position upon detecting a triggering event. For example, the computer 30 can direct the first actuator 55 to the extended position in response to detecting a vehicle collision, thereby causing the steering handle 28 to pivot to the retracted position. As another example, the computer 30 can direct the second actuator 56 to the extended position in response to determining that the door 42 is in the open position, determining that the seat 38 is unoccupied, determining that autonomous mode has been selected, determining that the engine is off, etc., thereby causing the steering handle 28 to pivot to the retracted position. As yet another example, the computer 30 can direct the second actuator 56 to the retracted position in response to determining that the door 42 is in the closed position, determining that the seat 38 is occupied, determining that manual mode has been selected, determining that the engine is on, etc., thereby causing the steering handle 28 to pivot to the extended position.

[0069] The computer 30 can be programmed to inflate the airbag 58. For example, the computer 30 can send a signal to the inflator 60 via the communication network 68 instructing the inflator 60 to actuate. The inflator 60 can release and inflate the airbag 58. The computer 30 can inflate the airbag 58 in response to detecting a vehicle collision, for example, based on information from the sensor 64, such as from a crash sensor and received via the communication network 68. The computer 30 can inflate the airbag 58 after the steering handle 28 is pivoted to the retracted position.

[0070] Figure 6 6 is a process flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 600 for controlling the steering handle 28 and the airbag 58. The process 600 begins at block 605, where the computer 30 receives data from the sensor 64, the user interface 66, etc., for example, via the communication network 68. The computer 30 may continue to receive data throughout the process 600. In this context, the entire process 600 is performed substantially continuously or at regular intervals (e.g., every 200 milliseconds).

[0071] Next, at block 610, computer 30 determines whether door 42 is in an open position, e.g., based on information received from sensor 64 via communication network 68. Upon determining that door 42 is in an open position, process 600 moves to block 615. Upon determining that door 42 is not in an open position, e.g., upon determining that door 42 is in a closed position, process 600 moves to block 620.

[0072] At box 615, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the extended position.

[0073] At box 620, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the extended position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the retracted position.

[0074] At block 625, the computer 30 determines whether the seat 38 is occupied, for example, based on information received from the sensor 64 via the communication network 68. When the seat 38 is determined to be occupied, the process 600 moves to block 630. When the seat 38 is determined to be unoccupied, the process 600 moves to block 635.

[0075] At box 630, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the extended position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the retracted position.

[0076] At box 635, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the extended position.

[0077] At block 640, the computer 30 determines whether the engine of the vehicle 24 is on, for example, based on information received from the sensor 64 via the communication network 68. When it is determined that the engine of the vehicle 24 is on, the process 600 moves to block 645. When it is determined that the engine of the vehicle 24 is not on, for example, the engine is off, the process 600 moves to block 650.

[0078] At box 645, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the extended position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the retracted position.

[0079] At box 650, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the extended position.

[0080] At block 655, the computer 30 determines whether the vehicle 24 is in autonomous mode, for example, based on information from the user interface 66. When it is determined that the vehicle 24 is in autonomous mode, for example, the autonomous mode is selected using the user interface 66, the process moves to block 660. When it is determined that the vehicle 24 is not in autonomous mode, for example, the manual mode is selected using the user interface 66, the process moves to block 665.

[0081] At box 660, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the extended position.

[0082] At box 665, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the extended position. For example, the computer 30 may instruct the second actuator 56 to the retracted position.

[0083] At block 670, the computer 30 determines whether a vehicle collision has been detected, for example based on information from the sensor 64. After determining that a vehicle collision has been detected, the process 600 moves to block 675. If it is determined that a vehicle collision has not been detected, the process 600 may end. Alternatively, the process may return to block 605.

[0084] At box 675, the computer 30 pivots the steering handle 28 to the retracted position. For example, the computer 30 may direct the first actuator 55 to the extended position. After box 665, the process 600 may move to box 680.

[0085] At block 680, the computer 30 inflates the airbag 58. For example, the computer 30 may send instructions to the inflator 60 via the communication network 68. After block 680, the process 600 may end. Alternatively, the process may return to block 605.

[0086] Computing devices, such as computer 30, typically include computer-executable instructions, which can be executed by one or more computing devices, such as those listed above. Computer-executable instructions can be compiled or interpreted by a computer program created using various programming languages ​​and / or technologies, including, but not limited to, Java, PHP, and others, either alone or in combination. TM , C, C++, Visual Basic, JavaScript, Perl, etc. Some of these applications can be compiled and executed on a virtual machine, such as a Java virtual machine, a Dalvik virtual machine, etc. Generally speaking, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) receives instructions, for example, from a memory, a computer-readable medium, etc., and executes these instructions to perform one or more processes, including one or more of the processes described herein. Various computer-readable media can be used to store and transmit such instructions and other data.

[0087] Computer-readable media (also known as processor-readable media) include any non-transitory (e.g., tangible) medium that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer (e.g., by a computer's processor). Such media can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile media and volatile media. Non-volatile media can include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media can include, for example, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes main memory. Such instructions can be transmitted by one or more transmission media, including coaxial cables, copper wire, and optical fiber, including wires that constitute a system bus connected to a computer's processor. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, disks, hard disks, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, CD-ROMs, DVDs, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with a pattern of holes, RAM, PROMs, EPROMs, FLASH-EEPROMs, any other memory chips or cassettes, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0088] In some examples, system elements can be implemented as computer-readable instructions (e.g., software) stored on computer-readable media (e.g., disks, memories, etc.) associated with one or more computing devices (e.g., servers, personal computers, etc.). A computer program product may include such instructions stored on a computer-readable medium for performing the functions described herein.

[0089] With respect to the media, processes, systems, methods, and the like described herein, it should be understood that although the steps of such processes, etc. have been described as occurring in a particular order, such processes may be practiced with the described steps performed in an order other than that described herein. It should also be understood that certain steps may be performed simultaneously, other steps may be added, or certain steps described herein may be omitted. In other words, the descriptions of the systems and / or processes herein are provided for the purpose of illustrating certain embodiments and should in no way be construed to limit the disclosed subject matter.

[0090] The present disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, and it should be understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive rather than restrictive. In light of the above teachings, many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible, and the present disclosure may be practiced in other ways than those specifically described.

[0091] According to the present invention, an assembly is provided, which has a steering column; a pair of steering handles, which are pivotally supported by the steering column and can be pivoted from an extended position toward the steering column to a retracted position; a processor; and a memory, which stores instructions that can be executed by the processor to pivot the steering handles to the retracted position when a triggering event is detected.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the triggering event is a vehicle collision.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the extended position or the retracted position based on determining whether the vehicle door is in the closed position or the open position.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position upon determining that the vehicle engine is in an off state.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the extended position when it is determined that the vehicle engine is on.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position or the extended position based on determining whether the vehicle is in autonomous mode or manual mode.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to inflate an airbag after pivoting the steering handle to the retracted position.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the extended position upon determining that a vehicle seat is occupied.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the steering handles each include a slot and further include a ring supported by the steering column and operatively engaged with the slot of the steering handle.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the steering column defines an axis, the ring is movable along the axis, and movement of the ring along the axis causes the steering handle to pivot.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a pair of support arms that pivotally support the steering handle, the ring being located between the steering column and the support arms.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the steering column comprises a shaft, the ring and the support arm supported by the shaft.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by an actuator configured to move the ring along the axis.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by an actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the above invention is further characterized by a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position and to the extended position.

[0106] According to the present invention, an assembly is provided having a processor and a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to actuate an actuator configured to pivot a pair of steering handles from an extended position toward a steering column to a retracted position upon detection of a triggering event.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the triggering event is a vehicle collision.

[0108] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to actuate a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the extended position or the retracted position based on determining whether the vehicle door is in the open position or the closed position.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to actuate a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the extended position or the retracted position based on determining whether a vehicle seat is occupied or unoccupied.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to inflate an airbag after pivoting the steering handle to the retracted position.

Claims

1. An assembly comprising: Steering column; a pair of steering handles pivotally supported by the steering column and pivotable from an extended position toward the steering column to a retracted position; wherein the steering handles each include a slot, and further comprising a ring supported by the steering column and operably engaged with the slot of the steering handle, and further comprising a pair of support arms pivotally supporting the steering handles, the ring being located between the steering column and the support arms; processor; as well as A memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position upon detecting a triggering event.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the triggering event is a vehicle collision.

3. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position upon determining that the vehicle engine is in an off state.

4. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the extended position upon determining that the vehicle engine is on.

5. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position or the extended position based on determining whether the vehicle is in autonomous mode or manual mode.

6. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to inflate an air bag after pivoting the steering handle to the retracted position.

7. The assembly of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising an actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position.

8. The assembly of claim 7, further comprising a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the retracted position and to the extended position.

9. An assembly comprising: Steering column; a pair of steering handles pivotally supported by the steering column and pivotable from an extended position toward the steering column to a retracted position; wherein the steering handles each include a slot, and further comprising a ring supported by the steering column and operably engaged with the slot of the steering handle, and further comprising a pair of support arms pivotally supporting the steering handles, the ring being located between the steering column and the support arms; an airbag housing supported by the roof; processor; as well as a memory storing instructions executable by the processor to actuate an actuator configured to pivot a pair of steering handles from an extended position toward a steering column to a retracted position upon detecting a triggering event, and to inflate an airbag after pivoting the steering handles to the retracted position.

10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the triggering event is a vehicle collision.

11. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to actuate a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the extended position or the retracted position based on determining whether the vehicle door is in the open position or the closed position.

12. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the processor to actuate a second actuator configured to pivot the steering handle to the extended position or the retracted position based on determining whether a vehicle seat is occupied or unoccupied.

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