Steering column with folding steering wheel structure

Abstract

The present invention provides a steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure, which can store the steering wheel into the vehicle body. In particular, in the autonomous driving mode, the space for the driver's seat can be ensured to prevent the steering wheel from interfering with the body, thereby allowing the driver to perform comfortable driving movements and preventing the driver from intervening in steering.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure, and more specifically, to a steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure as follows: the steering wheel can be stored in the vehicle body, and in particular, space for the driver's seat is ensured in the autonomous driving mode to prevent the steering wheel from interfering with the body, thereby enabling the driver to perform comfortable driving movements and preventing the driver from intervening in steering. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, cars have been developed that can automatically take you to your destination even if the driver does not operate the steering wheel, accelerator pedal, or brake.

[0003] The driving modes of an autonomous vehicle include a driver driving mode in which the driver drives the vehicle and an autonomous driving mode in which the autonomous driving system automatically drives the vehicle. In autonomous driving, a larger space is required for the convenience of the driver sitting in the driver's seat.

[0004] In particular, if the steering wheel in front of the driver is stored in the vehicle body in the autonomous driving mode, it can bring great convenience to the driver in terms of space. However, since the autonomous driving vehicle travels according to the driver's driving mode or the autonomous driving mode, there is a need for a steering wheel structure that can be operated by the driver like a general vehicle in the driver's driving mode, but can be easily stored in the vehicle body in the autonomous driving mode. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention was developed under the above-mentioned background, and the present invention relates to a steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure as follows: the steering wheel can be stored in the vehicle body, and in particular, space for the driver's seat is ensured in the autonomous driving mode, the steering wheel is prevented from interfering with the body, and the driver's comfortable driving movements can be achieved, preventing the driver from intervening in the steering.

[0006] According to this embodiment, a steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure is provided, which includes: a shaft, which is coupled to the steering shaft in a manner that crosses the steering shaft; a drive unit, which causes the steering shaft to move in a telescoping direction; a rotating frame, which includes: a shaft coupling portion, which is rotatably coupled to the above-mentioned shaft; a steering wheel coupling portion, to which the steering wheel is coupled; and a guide rod, which is separated from the shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft; and a guide frame, which includes a guide gap, and the guide rod enters and exits the guide gap as the steering shaft moves in the telescoping direction.

[0007] According to this embodiment, the steering wheel can be stored in the vehicle body. In particular, in autonomous driving mode, the space for the driver's seat is ensured, the steering wheel is prevented from interfering with the body, and the driver's comfortable driving movements can be achieved without the driver intervening in steering. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the steering column of this embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 It means in Figure 1 A perspective view of the steering wheel in the folded state.

[0010] Figure 3 It is a perspective view of the steering column of this embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Exploded three-dimensional diagram.

[0012] Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the steering column of this embodiment.

[0013] Figure 6 It is a side view of the steering column of this embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 A diagram of the action state.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a side view of the steering column of this embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 Yes Figure 8 A diagram of the action state.

[0017] Figure 10 It is a side view of the steering column of this embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 Yes Figure 10 A diagram of the action state.

[0019] (Explanation of Symbols)

[0020] 100: Steering column with foldable steering wheel structure 101: Steering wheel

[0021] 110: Steering shaft 120: Shaft

[0022] 130: Rotating frame 131: Shaft coupling portion

[0023] 132: Steering wheel joint 133: Guide rod

[0024] 140: Guide frame 141: Guide gap

[0025] 150: Driving unit 160: Mounting bracket

[0026] 310: Cam portion 411: Support portion

[0027] 412: Chamfered portion 420: Thrust bearing

[0028] 431: Rotating joint 432: First extension

[0029] 433: Second extension portion 434: Connecting hole

[0030] 511: Fixed cam 512: Moving cam

[0031] 521: 1st chain stopper 522: 2nd chain stopper

[0032] 531: Spring 532: Nut

[0033] 610: Guide surface 1001: First section

[0034] 1002: Section 2 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Below, with reference to the illustrative figures, some embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail. When adding symbols to the constituent elements of each figure, for the same constituent elements, even if they are shown on different figures, try to use the same symbols. In addition, when describing this embodiment, if it is judged that the specific description of the relevant well-known structure or function makes the gist of the technical idea unclear, its detailed description may be omitted. Regarding the "including", "having", and "constituting" mentioned in this specification, as long as "~only" is not used, it means that other parts can be added. In the case of expressing constituent elements in the singular, in the absence of a particularly clear record, the majority of cases are included.

[0036] In addition, when describing the constituent elements of the present disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, a, and b may be used. Such terms are used only to distinguish the constituent elements from other constituent elements and do not limit the nature, frequency, order, or quantity of the constituent elements.

[0037] When describing the positional relationship of constituent elements, if it is stated that two or more constituent elements are "connected," "coupled," or "linked," the two or more constituent elements may be directly "connected," "coupled," or "linked," or other constituent elements may be interposed between the two or more constituent elements to achieve "connection," "coupling," or "linking." Here, the other constituent elements are included in one or more of the two or more constituent elements that are "connected," "coupled," or "linked" to each other.

[0038] When describing the temporal flow relationship related to constituent elements, methods of action, or production methods, for example, when using "after", "next", "then", "before", etc. to describe the temporal sequence or flow sequence, if "immediately" or "directly" is not used, discontinuous situations are also included.

[0039] On the other hand, when referring to a numerical value or its corresponding information (for example, level, etc.) regarding a constituent element, even if there is no other clear record, it should be understood that the numerical value or its corresponding information includes the error range caused by various reasons (for example, process reasons, internal or external impact, noise, etc.).

[0040] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of the steering column of this embodiment, Figure 2 It means in Figure 1 A perspective view of the steering wheel folded in the middle. Figure 3 1 is a perspective view of the steering column of this embodiment, Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective diagram, Figure 5 This is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the steering column of this embodiment. Figure 6 1 is a side view of the steering column of this embodiment, Figure 7 Yes Figure 6 The action state diagram, Figure 8 1 is a side view of the steering column of this embodiment, Figure 9 Yes Figure 8 The action state diagram, Figure 10 1 is a side view of the steering column of this embodiment, Figure 11 Yes Figure 10 A diagram of the action state.

[0041] The steering column 100 of this embodiment with a foldable steering wheel structure includes: a shaft 120, which is coupled to the steering shaft 110 in a manner that crosses the steering shaft 110; a driving unit 150, which moves the steering shaft 110 in the telescoping direction; a rotating frame 130, which includes a shaft coupling portion 131 rotatably coupled to the shaft 120, a steering wheel coupling portion 132 coupled to the steering wheel 101, and a guide rod 133 away from the shaft 120 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110; and a guide frame 140, which includes a guide gap 141 for the guide rod 133 to enter and exit the guide gap 141 as the steering shaft 110 moves in the telescoping direction.

[0042] Reference Figures 1 to 2The steering column 100 of this embodiment has the following folding structure: the steering wheel 101 is coupled to the steering shaft 110 via a rotating frame 130 and a shaft 120. The driving unit 150 contracts or extends the steering column, moving the steering shaft 110 in the telescoping direction, thereby rotating the steering wheel 101 relative to the steering shaft 110 to fold or unfold. The folding operation of the steering wheel 101 is performed by the rotating frame 130 and the guide frame 140.

[0043] Figure 1 The steering wheel 101 is located at the first position coaxially arranged with the steering shaft 110. Figure 2 The figure shows the steering wheel 101 in the second position, which is rotated from the first position. The steering wheel 101 rotates about the axis 120, folding from the first position to the second position or unfolding from the second position to the first position. The figure illustrates an embodiment in which the second position of the steering wheel 101 is a position rotated downward from the first position, but the present invention is not limited thereto and the second position may be a position rotated upward from the first position.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the first position of the steering wheel 101 allows the driver to grip the steering wheel 101 and operate the steering wheel. In the first position, the steering wheel 101 is coaxial with the steering shaft 110. As the driver rotates the steering wheel 101, the rotating frame 130, the shaft 120, and the steering wheel 101 rotate together about the axis of the steering shaft 110. Furthermore, a cam portion 310 is provided. This cam portion 310 locks the rotation of the shaft 120 of the rotating frame 130. When the driver operates the steering wheel 101, the steering wheel 101 does not rotate relative to the shaft 120 but is fixed in the first position. This will be described in detail later.

[0045] Shaft 120 is fixedly coupled to steering shaft 110 in the direction of steering shaft 110's rotation. Rotating bracket 130 is fixedly coupled to steering wheel 101 in the direction of steering wheel 101's rotation. Therefore, when steering wheel 101 is in the first position, torque applied by the driver to steering wheel 101 is transmitted to steering shaft 110 via rotating bracket 130 and shaft 120, causing the steering shaft 110 to rotate together. As shown in the figure, shaft 120 has a hole formed in it for inserting the end of steering shaft 110, and the shaft 120 is coupled to the steering shaft 110 using a serrated pattern.

[0046] As the steering column is contracted or extended by the driving unit 150 and the steering shaft 110 is telescoped, the rotating frame 130 is supported by the guide frame 140 and rotates around the axis of the shaft 120, and the steering wheel 101 coupled to the rotating frame 130 moves from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position.

[0047] As shown in the figure, the driving unit 150 that causes the steering column to contract or extend to move the steering shaft 110 in the telescoping direction includes a motor and a bolt. One end of the bolt is coupled to the upper tube, and the motor is coupled to the lower tube. This rotates a nut engaged with the bolt, thereby moving the steering shaft 110. The structures of the upper tube, lower tube, bolt, and nut are similar to those of known components, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the second position of the steering wheel 101 is a position where the steering wheel 101 is stored in the vehicle body, and may be a position rotated approximately 90 degrees from the first position. The steering wheel 101 is stored inside the instrument panel of the vehicle, for example.

[0049] The steering column 100 of this embodiment does not include a separate drive unit for rotating the steering wheel 101 relative to the shaft 120. Instead, the steering column 101 is rotated relative to the shaft 120 by the drive unit 150, which causes the steering column 100 to contract or extend. Specifically, the steering column 100 is configured such that, to store the steering wheel 101 within the vehicle body, the steering wheel naturally folds when the steering column is contracted, and to remove the steering wheel 101 from the vehicle body, the steering wheel naturally unfolds when the steering column is extended.

[0050] First, a brief description will be given of the rotating frame 130, shaft 120, and guide frame 140 used to fold the steering wheel 101. The rotating frame 130 is rotatably coupled to the shaft 120, and the steering wheel 101 is coupled to the rotating frame 130 so as to rotate together with the rotating frame 130 relative to the shaft 120. The rotating frame 130 includes a shaft coupling portion 131, a steering wheel coupling portion 132, and a guide rod 133. The shaft coupling portion 131, which is rotatably coupled to the shaft, provides a rotational center for the rotating frame 130 when it rotates relative to the shaft 120. The steering wheel coupling portion 132, which is coupled to the steering wheel 101, includes, for example, a serrated portion 132a for coupling with the steering wheel 101. This secures the steering wheel 101 and the rotating frame 130 relative to the direction of rotation of the steering wheel 101. However, the connection relationship between the shaft 120 and the steering shaft 110 and the connection relationship between the rotating frame 130 and the steering wheel 101 are not limited thereto.

[0051] The guide rod 133 is inserted into the guide gap 141 of the guide frame 140 and moves along the guide gap 141. A torque is applied to the guide rod 133 to rotate the rotating frame 130. The guide rod 133 is spaced apart from the shaft 120 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110. Specifically, as shown in the figure, when the steering wheel 101 is in the first position, the steering wheel coupling 132 is located on a plane formed by the axes of the steering shaft 110 and the shaft 120, but the guide rod 133 is not located on this plane. The figure illustrates an embodiment in which the guide rod 133 is located above the steering shaft 110. The guide rod 133 is parallel to the shaft 120.

[0052] The guide rod 133 moves away from the shaft 120 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110, thereby moving the steering shaft 110 in the telescoping direction. The guide rod 133 is then supported by the guide frame 140, and torque is applied to the rotating frame 130. Consequently, the rotating frame 130 rotates about the axis of the shaft 120, and the steering wheel 101 moves from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position.

[0053] Guide frame 140 includes a guide gap 141 through which guide rod 133 is inserted and removed as the steering column contracts or expands. One end of guide gap 141 is open, allowing guide rod 133 to enter and exit through the open end. As guide rod 133, inserted into guide gap 141, moves within guide gap 141, rotating frame 133 is rotatable relative to shaft 120. Specifically, guide gap 141 is designed to apply torque to guide rod 133, causing rotating frame 130 to rotate, as guide rod 133 moves along guide gap 141, until it is inserted into and removed from guide gap 141.

[0054] Specifically, as the steering column is retracted or extended with the guide rod 133 inserted into the guide gap 141, the steering wheel 101 moves from the first position to the second position, or from the second position to the first position. When the steering column retracts while the steering wheel 101 is in the first position and before the guide rod 133 is inserted into the guide gap 141, the guide rod 133 is inserted into the guide gap 141, thereby folding the steering wheel 101. As the steering column continues to retract, the guide rod 133 moves toward the end of the guide gap 141, and the steering wheel 101 moves from the first position to the second position. After the steering wheel 101 is in the second position, when the steering column is extended, the steering wheel 101 moves from the second position to the first position through the reverse process. Such a guide gap 141 can be formed in various configurations, the details of which will be described later.

[0055] On the other hand, it should be noted that the folding operation of the steering wheel 101 is different from the telescoping operation of the steering shaft 110. Specifically, the telescoping operation of the steering wheel 101 is an operation in which the steering column is retracted or extended while the steering wheel 101 remains in the first position, allowing the driver to adjust the position of the steering wheel 101. The folding operation of the steering wheel 101 is an operation in which the steering wheel 101 rotates about the axis of the shaft 120 and moves from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position while the steering column is retracted or extended.

[0056] In other words, the telescoping action of the steering shaft 110 and the folding action of the steering wheel 101 are both performed by the driving unit 150, but the stroke range of the steering column performing the telescoping action of the steering shaft 110 and the stroke range of the steering column performing the folding action of the steering wheel 101 are different.

[0057] During the retraction process of the steering column in its most extended state, the telescoping range begins after the steering column begins to retract until it reaches a predetermined stroke, and the steering wheel 101 remains in the first position before being retracted into the vehicle body. When the steering column further retracts beyond the predetermined telescoping range, the steering wheel 101 rotates about the axis of the shaft 120 via the rotating frame 130 and the guide frame 140, moving from the first position to the second position and retracting into the vehicle body. The steering column retraction is completed while the steering wheel 101 is in the second position, or after reaching the second position, the steering wheel 101 maintains its position, allowing the steering column to further retract.

[0058] Conversely, during the extension process of the steering column in its most retracted state, before the steering column begins to extend and reaches a predetermined stroke, the steering wheel 101 is not in the first position, but is in the second position or in the process of moving from the second position to the first position. As the steering column continues to extend, the steering wheel 101 moves from the second position to the first position via the rotating frame 130 and the guide frame 140. After the steering column reaches the predetermined stroke, it enters the range for performing telescoping and reaches the first position, where it no longer rotates about the axis of the shaft 120.

[0059] Below, refer to Figures 3 to 5 , the structure of the steering column 100 of this embodiment will be described in more detail, and then refer to Figures 6 to 11 , the shapes of the guide frame 140 and the guide gap 141 are described in detail. Figures 3 to 11 In the figure, for the convenience of illustration and understanding, the steering wheel 101 is omitted.

[0060] Reference Figure 3As described above, the steering shaft 110 is coupled to the shaft 120 , and the steering wheel 101 is coupled to the rotating frame 130 . As the rotating frame 130 is rotatably coupled to the shaft 120 , the steering wheel 101 can be folded or unfolded relative to the steering shaft 110 .

[0061] The steering column 100 of this embodiment includes a drive unit 150 for telescoping the steering shaft 110 and folding the steering wheel 101. It also includes a tilt drive unit for tilting the steering shaft 110. Like the drive unit 150, the tilt drive unit includes a bolt and a nut to tilt the steering shaft 110, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted herein.

[0062] The guide frame 140 is located further forward than the shaft 120 and the rotating frame 130. As the steering column is retracted or extended, the guide rod 133 can enter and exit the guide gap 141. As shown in the figure, the guide frame 140 is fixed to the mounting bracket 160 for fixing the steering column to the vehicle body.

[0063] In addition, as described above, the shaft 120 has a cam portion 310, which locks the position of the steering wheel 101 in the first position so that when the driver operates the steering wheel 101, the steering wheel 101 rotates only around the axis of the steering shaft 110 and does not rotate around the axis of the shaft 120. Figure 5 Detailed description is given in .

[0064] Reference Figure 4 As described above, the shaft coupling portion 131 of the rotating frame 130 is a portion that is rotatably coupled to the shaft. As shown in the figure, it is formed as a pair and is coupled to each end of the shaft 120. That is, the center portion of the shaft 120 is coupled to the steering shaft 110, and the shaft coupling portion 131 is coupled to each end.

[0065] Furthermore, the steering wheel coupling portion 132 and the guide rod 133 are provided between the pair of shaft coupling portions 131. Specifically, the steering wheel coupling portion 132 and the guide rod 133 are located between the pair of shaft coupling portions 131 that are spaced apart in the axial direction of the shaft 120. Therefore, the steering wheel 101 coupled to the steering wheel coupling portion 132 is coaxial with the steering shaft 110 in the first position, and the guide rod 133 is parallel to the shaft 120.

[0066] A pair of shaft couplings 131 respectively include: a rotation coupling 431 coupled to the shaft 120; a first extension 432 extending from the rotation coupling 431 and having a steering wheel coupling 132 between the extended ends; and a second extension 433 extending from the rotation coupling 431 and having a guide rod 133 between the extended ends.

[0067] The rotating coupling portion 431 is rotatably coupled to the shaft 120 and has a coupling hole 434 formed therein for inserting the shaft 120. The shaft 120 is provided with a support portion 411 that axially supports the rotating frame 130. As shown in the figure, the support portion 411 is formed at the distal end of the shaft 120, and the rotating frame 130 is inserted into the shaft 120 on the opposite side of the support portion 411. The support portion 411 acts as a stop against the rotating frame 130 inserted into the shaft 120. A thrust bearing 420 is located between the support portion 411 and the rotating frame 130 to support the rotation of the shaft 120 relative to the rotating frame 130.

[0068] The first extension 432 connects the rotating coupling 431 to the steering wheel coupling 132, while the second extension 433 connects the rotating coupling 431 to the guide rod 133. Therefore, with the steering wheel 101 in the first position, the first extension 432 extends rearward from the rotating coupling 431, while the second extension 433 extends forward and obliquely upward or downward from the rotating coupling 431. The second extension 433 extends forward and obliquely upward or downward, allowing the guide rod 133, which is disposed between the ends of the second extension 433, to be spaced apart from the shaft 120 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110.

[0069] Reference Figure 5 Cam portion 310 includes a fixed cam 511 circumferentially fixed to shaft 120, and a movable cam 512 coupled to rotating frame 130 and supported by fixed cam 511. Specifically, when rotating frame 130 rotates relative to shaft 120, rotating frame 130 and movable cam 512 rotate together, while fixed cam 511 does not rotate. Shaft 120 has a chamfered portion 412 formed at its end, and fixed cam 511 supports chamfered portion 412. This allows fixed cam 511 to be fixed to shaft 120 circumferentially, but still slide axially on shaft 120.

[0070] As described above, the shaft 120 has a support portion 411 at its distal end. The cam portion 310 and the support portion 411 are located at opposite ends of the shaft 120, with the rotating frame 130 interposed therebetween. Specifically, the shaft 120 has the support portion 411 formed thereon, supporting the rotating frame 130 in the axial direction on the opposite side of the cam portion 310, with the rotating frame 130 interposed therebetween. The cam portion 310 presses the rotating frame 130 toward the support portion 411, thereby locking the rotating frame 130 from rotating.

[0071] Specifically, cam surfaces are formed on the surfaces where the fixed cam 511 and the movable cam 512 support each other. Relative rotation between the fixed cam 511 and the movable cam 512 causes axial movement between the fixed cam 511 and the movable cam 512. The driving unit 150 rotates the rotating frame 130 relative to the shaft 120, causing the fixed cam 511 and the movable cam 512 to move closer to or farther from each other, thereby locking or unlocking the rotation of the rotating frame 130. A nut 532 with a spring 531 between it and the fixed cam 511 is coupled to the side end of the cam portion 310 of the shaft 120. The spring 531 supports the nut 532, pressurizing the fixed cam 511, thereby maintaining contact between the fixed cam 511 and the movable cam 512.

[0072] The cam portion 310 locks the steering wheel 101's rotation relative to the shaft 120 of the rotating frame 130 when the steering wheel 101 is in the first position, which is coaxial with the steering shaft 110. Specifically, the cam portion 310 locks the steering wheel 101's rotation relative to the shaft 120 when the steering wheel 101 moves from the second position to the first position. When the driver operates the steering wheel 101, the steering wheel 101 does not rotate relative to the shaft 120. On the other hand, when the steering wheel 101 is in the second position, its rotation relative to the shaft 120 of the rotating frame 130 is locked or unlocked.

[0073] Furthermore, a first chain stopper 521 is formed on the fixed cam 511, and a second chain stopper 522 is formed on the movable cam 512. When the steering wheel 101 is located at the first position coaxial with the steering shaft 110, the first chain stopper 521 and the second chain stopper 522 are supported (see FIG. Figure 6 When the steering wheel 101 is in the first position, the first chain stopper 521 and the second chain stopper 522 support each other, so that the steering wheel 101 moving from the second position to the first position is stopped at the first position and prevented from rotating beyond the first position. On the other hand, when the steering wheel 101 is in the second position, the first chain stopper 521 and the second chain stopper 522 support each other.

[0074] Next, a guide gap 141 is formed in the guide frame 140 for the guide rod 133 to enter and exit. As the guide rod 133 moves in the guide gap 141 , a torque for rotating the rotating frame 130 is applied to the guide rod 133 . Figure 6 FIG shows an embodiment in which the guide gap 141 is formed as a straight line vertical to the drawing. Figure 8 FIG shows an embodiment in which the guide gap 141 is formed as a curve in the drawing. Figure 10 3 shows an embodiment in which the guide gap 141 is formed as a vertical straight line and a curved line in the drawing.

[0075] First, observing the common features of the various embodiments shown in the figures, it can be seen that the entrance to guide gap 141, through which guide rod 133 enters and exits, is formed perpendicular to the orientation of steering shaft 110, in other words, open downward in the figures. Therefore, guide rod 133 moves in a vertical direction when inserted into or removed from guide gap 141. Meanwhile, the distal end of guide gap 141 can be open or, as shown, closed.

[0076] When the steering column is contracted or extended by the driving unit 150, the guide rod 133 moves together with the steering shaft 110 in the telescoping direction, that is, the left and right direction in the drawing. A guide surface 610 is formed on the guide frame 140 to insert the guide rod 133 moving in the telescoping direction into the guide gap 141.

[0077] Specifically, guide frame 140 includes a guide surface 610, formed rearwardly at the entrance of guide gap 141, that guides guide rod 133 into guide gap 141. Guide surface 610 faces rearward, to the right in the drawing, and opposes guide rod 133 before insertion into guide gap 141. Guide surface 610 supports guide rod 133 before insertion into guide gap 141. Guide surface 610 allows guide rod 133, which moves in the telescoping direction, to be inserted into guide gap 141, even if guide gap 141 opens perpendicularly to the axial direction of steering shaft 110. As shown in the drawing, guide surface 610 is formed by extending the forward surface of the two surfaces defining guide gap 141.

[0078] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described. According to this embodiment, the guide gap 141 allows the guide rod 133 inserted into the guide gap 141 to move in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110. In other words, Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the guide gap 141 is formed in the vertical direction in the drawing.

[0079] Figure 7 The following diagrams illustrate each step. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the steering wheel 101 is folded by moving the guide rod 133 in the guide gap 141 . Figure 7 (A) is a state before the guide rod 133 is inserted into the guide gap 141 , and the steering wheel 101 is located at the first position. Figure 7 (B) means Figure 7 In state (A), as the steering column is retracted, the guide rod 133 is supported by the guide surface 610, and the steering wheel 101 is still in the first position. When the steering column is further retracted, the guide rod 133 is guided by the guide surface 610 and inserted into the guide gap 141. Figure 7 (C) means Figure 7In state (B), the steering column is further retracted. Guide rod 133, inserted into guide gap 141, moves vertically along guide gap 141 until it reaches the end of guide gap 141. Guide rod 133 is positioned at the uppermost position in the drawing, and shaft 120 is positioned directly below the opening of guide gap 141. As guide rod 133 moves through guide gap 141, rotating frame 130 rotates about the axis of shaft 120, positioning steering wheel 101 between the first and second positions. Figure 7 D means Figure 7 In the state of C, the steering column 100 is further retracted and the steering wheel 101 is in the second position. The shaft 120 is located further forward than the entrance of the guide gap 141, and the guide rod 133 moves downward from the end of the guide gap 141. During the process of the steering wheel 101 moving from the second position to the first position, Figure 7 (D) to A process is executed.

[0080] According to the present embodiment, the guide gap 141 is formed so that the guide rod 133 inserted into the guide gap 141 moves simultaneously in the axial direction of the steering shaft 110 and in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110. Figure 6 Unlike the illustrated embodiment, the guide rod 133 may be configured to move simultaneously in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction in the drawing. Figure 8 3 shows an embodiment in which the guide gap 141 is formed in a curved line protruding upward in the drawing or the guide gap 141 is formed in an oblique direction.

[0081] Figure 9 The following diagrams illustrate the steps in Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the steering wheel 101 is folded by moving the guide rod 133 in the guide gap 141 . Figure 9 (A) is a state before the guide rod 133 is inserted into the guide gap 141 , and the steering wheel 101 is located at the first position. Figure 9 (B) means Figure 9 In state (A), the steering column is retracted and the guide rod 133 is supported by the guide surface 610 , and the steering wheel 101 is still in the first position. When the steering column is further retracted, the guide rod 133 is guided by the guide surface 610 and inserted into the guide gap 141 . Figure 9 (C) means Figure 9 In state (B), the steering column is further retracted. The guide rod 133, inserted into the guide gap 141, moves along the guide gap 141 toward the upper right in the drawing, reaching a position farther from the uppermost position of the steering shaft 110. As the guide rod 133 moves into the guide gap 141, the rotating frame 130 rotates about the axis of the shaft 120, and the steering wheel 101 is positioned between the first and second positions. Figure 9 (D) means Figure 9 In the state (C) where the steering column 100 is further retracted and the steering wheel 101 is located at the second position, the guide rod 133 moves to the lower right and reaches the end of the guide gap 141. The steering wheel 101 moves from the second position to the first position through the Figure 7 The process from (D) to (A) is executed.

[0082] In addition, referring to this embodiment, the guide gap 141 includes a first section 1001 in which the guide rod 133 inserted into the guide gap 141 moves in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110, and a second section 1002 in which the guide rod 133 moves simultaneously in the axial direction of the steering shaft 110 and in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft 110. That is, the guide gap 141 includes Figure 6 The embodiment shown in the figure forms a vertical interval and Figure 8 In the embodiment shown in FIG, the interval is formed as a curve or as an oblique line. Figure 10 The figure shows an embodiment in which the first section 1001 is formed vertically from the entrance of the guide gap 141 toward the upper side in the drawing, and the second section 1002 is formed diagonally from the upper end to the lower left end of the first section 1001. The figure shows an embodiment in which the guide rod 133 inserted into the opening of the guide gap 141 passes through the first section 1001 and then enters the second section 1002. However, the opposite situation may also be adopted, or the first section 1001 or the second section 1002 may be separated into multiple sections and arranged alternately.

[0083] Figure 11 The following diagrams illustrate the steps in Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the steering wheel 101 is folded as the guide rod 133 moves in the guide gap 141 . Figure 11 (A) is a state before the guide rod 133 is inserted into the guide gap 141 , and the steering wheel 101 is located at the first position. Figure 11 (B) means Figure 11 In state (A), as the steering column is retracted, the guide rod 133 is supported by the guide surface 610 , and the steering wheel 101 is still in the first position. When the steering column is further retracted, the guide rod 133 is guided by the guide surface 610 and inserted into the guide gap 141 . Figure 11 (C) means Figure 11In state (B), the steering column is further retracted. Guide rod 133, inserted into guide gap 141 and entering first section 1001, moves vertically along first section 1001, reaching the upper end of first section 1001 as shown in the drawing. With guide rod 133 positioned at the uppermost position in the drawing, shaft 120 is positioned directly below the opening of guide gap 141. As guide rod 133 moves into first section 1001, rotating frame 130 rotates about the axis of shaft 120, positioning steering wheel 101 between the first and second positions. Figure 11 (D) means Figure 11 In (C), the steering column 100 is further retracted and the steering wheel 101 is in the second position. The guide rod 133 is separated from the first section 1001 and enters the second section 1002. When the guide rod 133 reaches the end of the second section 1002, the steering wheel 101 is in the second position. The process of the steering wheel 101 moving from the second position to the first position is as follows: Figure 7 The process from (D) to (A) is executed.

[0084] According to the steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure having the above shape, the steering wheel can be stored in the vehicle body. In particular, in the autonomous driving mode, the space for the driver's seat is ensured to prevent the steering wheel from interfering with the body, so that the driver can perform comfortable driving movements and can also prevent the driver from intervening in the steering.

[0085] The above description is merely an illustrative description of the technical concept of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the technical concept. In addition, the present embodiment does not limit the technical concept of the present disclosure, but rather illustrates the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the technical concept is not limited to such an embodiment. The scope of protection of the present disclosure should be interpreted in accordance with the following claims, and all technical concepts within the same scope should be included in the scope of rights of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure, comprising: a shaft coupled to the steering shaft in a manner intersecting the steering shaft; a driving unit for moving the steering shaft in a telescoping direction; The rotating frame includes: a shaft coupling portion rotatably coupled to the shaft; a steering wheel coupling portion to which the steering wheel is coupled; and a guide rod extending away from the steering shaft in a direction perpendicular to the steering shaft; and The guide frame includes a guide gap, and the guide rod enters and exits the guide gap as the steering shaft moves in the telescoping direction.

2. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guide gap is formed such that the rotating frame can rotate relative to the shaft as a guide rod inserted into the guide gap moves in the guide gap.

3. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shaft coupling portion is formed as a pair and is coupled to both ends of the shaft, respectively. The steering wheel coupling portion and the guide rod are provided between the pair of shaft coupling portions.

4. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 3, characterized in that: The above-mentioned pair of shaft couplings respectively include: a rotating coupling portion, which is coupled to the above-mentioned shaft; a first extension portion, which extends from the above-mentioned rotating coupling portion and has the above-mentioned steering wheel coupling portion between the extended ends; and a second extension portion, which extends from the above-mentioned rotating coupling portion and has the above-mentioned guide rod between the extended ends.

5. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 4, characterized in that: A coupling hole for inserting the shaft is formed on the rotary coupling portion.

6. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes: The cam portion includes a fixed cam fixed to the shaft in a circumferential direction, and a movable cam coupled to the rotating frame and supported by the fixed cam.

7. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: A support portion is formed on the shaft with the rotating frame interposed therebetween, the support portion supporting the rotating frame in the axial direction on the opposite side of the cam portion. The rotating frame is pressed toward the support portion by the cam portion, and the rotation of the rotating frame is locked.

8. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: The cam portion locks the rotation of the revolving frame relative to the shaft when the steering wheel and the steering shaft are coaxially located.

9. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 6, characterized in that: A first chain stopper is formed on the fixed cam, and a second chain stopper is formed on the movable cam. When the steering wheel and the steering shaft are coaxially located, the first chain stopper and the second chain stopper are supported by each other.

10. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guide frame includes a guide surface formed rearward from an entrance side of the guide gap and configured to guide the guide rod to be inserted into the guide gap.

11. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guide gap is formed such that a guide rod inserted into the guide gap moves in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft.

12. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guide gap is formed such that a guide rod inserted into the guide gap moves simultaneously in an axial direction of the steering shaft and in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft.

13. The steering column with a foldable steering wheel structure according to claim 1, wherein: The guide gap includes a first section for the guide rod inserted into the guide gap to move in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft; and a second section for the guide rod inserted into the guide gap to move simultaneously in the axial direction of the steering shaft and in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the steering shaft.

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