Recreational vehicle with heated turning components

Abstract

A system for communicating with components on a steering member has a first electrically conductive coil attached to a stationary component around a steering shaft of a vehicle. A second electrically conductive coil is coupled to the steering member and rotates with the steering member. A second transceiver is wirelessly operatively coupled to a first transceiver. The first transceiver is coupled to the first electrically conductive coil. The second transceiver is coupled to the second electrically conductive coil. The first electrically conductive coil induces current in the second electrically conductive coil to power a first of the components. The first electrically conductive coil is spaced apart from the second electrically conductive coil. The first transceiver and the second transceiver wirelessly communicate bi-directionally through the first electrically conductive coil and the second electrically conductive coil.

Description

[0001] Incorporation

[0002] This application is non-provisional application 63 / 228,334, filed August 2, 2021. The entire disclosures of U.S. Application 16 / 734,846, filed January 6, 2020, and U.S. Application 16 / 735,077, filed January 6, 2020, are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for controlling and heating components in a vehicle, and in particular to systems and methods for wirelessly transmitting power to steering components and transmitting data between steering components and other components. Background Technology

[0004] The vehicle may be an open-type vehicle excluding the roof and / or shell. As the ambient temperature around the vehicle decreases, the vehicle's occupants may feel colder. Therefore, heating features can be provided to offer additional comfort to the occupants. However, heating features may include numerous wired connections and / or additional heating components. A similar situation can exist in vehicles with enclosed cabs.

[0005] In some examples, off-road and on-road vehicles may include a steering system with one or more steering inputs, such as handlebars or a steering wheel. The handlebars can be heated using wiring and / or other electrical systems connected to a controller and / or battery. However, as the user constantly rotates the handlebars to operate the two-wheeled vehicle, the wiring may wear down. Ultimately, the user may need to replace the wiring and / or the handlebars to prevent malfunction of the heating feature.

[0006] For steering wheels, a clock spring is typically used to supply power to the heated steering wheel. The clock spring limits the number of rotations the steering wheel can make. Furthermore, based on the number and size of the wires passing through the clock spring wiring, there is a limitation on the amount of current that can be supplied to the steering wheel through the clock spring. Clock springs are also prone to accumulating dirt, grime, mud, and water.

[0007] Automotive standards provide guidelines for the surface temperature of heating components, and these guidelines require the transmission of feedback about the vehicle's heating contact points so that electrical power can be adjusted for such components. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In an exemplary example of this disclosure, a system for communicating with components on a steering member has a first conductive coil attached to a stationary component around the steering shaft of a vehicle. A second conductive coil is coupled to the steering member and rotates with it. A second transceiver is operatively coupled wirelessly to the first transceiver. The first transceiver is coupled to the first conductive coil. The second transceiver is coupled to the second conductive coil. The first conductive coil induces a current in the second conductive coil to power a first component among these components. The first conductive coil is spaced apart from the second conductive coil. Alternatively, the system may have a first transceiver and a second transceiver that communicate bidirectionally wirelessly via the first and second conductive coils.

[0009] The implementation may include one or more of the following features. In this system, a first conductive coil is overmolded, and a second conductive coil is overmolded. The first conductive coil is overmolded to a stationary coil holder, and the second conductive coil is overmolded to a rotating coil holder. The system may include a housing disposed around a steering axis, the stationary coil holder being coupled to the housing. The first conductive coil is attached to the steering housing and disposed in the axial direction, coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the steering member, and the second conductive coil is radially spaced from and coaxial with the first conductive coil and the steering housing. The system may include a dielectric layer radially disposed between the steering housing and the first conductive coil. The first and second conductive coils are cylindrical. A first component may include a steering member heating element. The steering member may include a thermal sensor that generates a temperature signal, wherein a second transceiver transmits the temperature signal to a vehicle controller via the second transceiver and the second conductive coil, as well as the first transceiver and the second conductive coil. The vehicle controller transmits heating element control signals to a first transceiver and a first conductive coil. A second transceiver receives the heating element control signals and controls the steering component heating element. The vehicle controller also transmits heating element control signals to the first transceiver and the first conductive coil. The second transceiver receives the heating element control signals and transmits them to a steering component controller to control the steering component heating element. The steering component may include a button that generates a button signal, wherein the button signal is transmitted from the second transceiver to the first transceiver via a second conductive coil and a first conductive coil. The first transceiver transmits serial signals to the second transceiver. The steering component may include an indicator and may include a steering component controller that uses indicator signals transmitted from the first transceiver to the second transceiver to control the indicator. The steering component may include a display and may include a steering component controller that uses display signals transmitted from the first transceiver to the second transceiver to control the display. In this system, the first transceiver and the second transceiver communicate wirelessly bidirectionally via the first and second conductive coils. Implementations of the described technology may include hardware, methods or processes, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0010] One general aspect includes a method for communicating with components on a steering member. The method further includes controlling a first conductive coil disposed around a steering axis. The method also includes, in response to the control, inducing a current in a second conductive coil coupled to the steering member to power a first component, the first conductive coil being spaced apart from the second conductive coil. The method further includes wirelessly transmitting signals bidirectionally between a first transceiver coupled to the first conductive coil and a second transceiver coupled to the second conductive coil. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, devices, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of these methods.

[0011] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. In this method, wireless bidirectional signal transmission may include: transmitting a thermal sensor signal from a second transceiver to a first transceiver, and transmitting a steering component heating element control signal from the first transceiver to the second transceiver. Wireless bidirectional signal transmission may include: transmitting a user interface signal from the second transceiver to the first transceiver, and transmitting a control signal from the first transceiver to the second transceiver. Wireless bidirectional signal transmission may include: transmitting a transmission shift signal, vehicle mode signal, or music control signal from the user interface from the second transceiver to the first transceiver, controlling transmission shifting in response to the transmission shift signal, vehicle mode signal, or music control signal, and transmitting a status signal from the first transceiver to the second transceiver. Wireless bidirectional signal transmission may include: transmitting a thermal sensor signal from the second transceiver to the first transceiver, generating a current control signal in response to the thermal sensor signal, and transmitting the current control signal from the first transceiver to the second transceiver. Implementations of the described technology may include hardware, methods or processes, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0012] One general aspect includes a method for operating a steering assembly of a vehicle having a steering member. The method further includes: receiving a user input signal indicating a temperature setting by a controller; determining, based on the temperature setting, an amount of current to be supplied to a first conductive coil, wherein the first conductive coil is coupled around a steering shaft; and, based on the amount of current, supplying current to the first conductive coil by the controller, wherein the first conductive coil is configured to wirelessly power a second conductive coil, and wherein the second conductive coil is configured to power a heating element. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, devices, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each of which is configured to perform the actions of these methods.

[0013] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. In this method, a first conductive coil is configured to wirelessly power a second conductive coil based on an induced second current. Implementations of the described technology may include hardware, methods or processes, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0014] Additional features of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following detailed description of illustrative examples illustrating the best mode of carrying out this disclosure as currently understood. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The foregoing aspects and numerous additional features of this system and method will become more readily and better understood when taken in conjunction with the following detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a portion of the vehicle as disclosed herein.

[0017] Figure 2A This is a plan view of the steering components of the partition.

[0018] Figure 2B This is a plan view of the fully heated steering component.

[0019] Figure 3A This is a side view of the steering component.

[0020] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view of the steering component.

[0021] Figure 3C It is a three-dimensional diagram of a stationary coil holder and a rotating coil holder.

[0022] Figure 3D It is a 3D diagram of a stationary coil holder.

[0023] Figure 3E It is a 3D view of the rotating coil holder.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a front view of the steering component.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the control circuit for the steering component.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a diagrammatic block showing the four options for the steering component heating system.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for shifting gears from the steering component.

[0028] Figure 8 It's the screen display for the gear shifting system.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of a method for refreshing buttons in a steering component.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of a method for transmitting button feedback signals from the steering component.

[0031] Figure 11 It is a flowchart of a method for controlling the display or performing actions at the steering component.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a 3D view of a coaxial spring assembly.

[0033] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the spring assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0034] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the principles of this disclosure, examples shown in the accompanying drawings will now be referenced, and these examples will be described below. The examples disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the precise forms disclosed in the detailed description below. Rather, these examples have been chosen and described to enable others skilled in the art to utilize their teachings.

[0035] Now for reference Figure 1 The example shows a recreational vehicle 10, such as a four-wheeled side-by-side vehicle. However, in this example, vehicle 10 can be any vehicle, such as a two-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, and / or other types of recreational vehicles that can be used on roads, trails, and / or both. Some examples of recreational vehicles 10 include, but are not limited to, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), side-by-side recreational vehicles, snowmobiles, and multi-purpose vehicles.

[0036] The recreational vehicle 10 further includes a steering system 138. The steering system 138 is coupled to at least one ground-engaging component (not shown), such as a wheel, skid, or track. The steering system 12 has a steering member 14 adapted for gripping by a user of the vehicle 10. The demonstrative steering member 14 includes handlebars and / or a steering wheel. In the following examples, the steering member 14 is shown as a steering wheel. Additionally and / or alternatively, the steering member 14 includes one or more user grip portions 16. The demonstrative user grip portions 16 are handlebars (such as motorcycle handlebars) or flexible portions disposed on or around a steering wheel.

[0037] User interface 20 is shown. User interface 20 may include multiple control switches 22 and / or multiple touchscreen buttons 24 displayed on display 26. Knob 27 may also be used to provide input to the system. Knob 27 may control vehicle functions and / or display 26. User interface 20 is used to input desired user functions, which are converted into user interface signals that can ultimately be transmitted to vehicle controller 28 via controller area network 30. Vehicle controller 28 may control specific functions based on the input of one or more user interface signals. Examples of suitable user interface signals include, but are not limited to, signals controlling the radio (music control signals), vehicle mode control signals controlling vehicle driving functions (such as suspension or steering), signals controlling the heating and / or cooling of various components (including steering member 14), signals controlling the vehicle's transmission, and control system signals controlling the vehicle's client control system (including heating or cooling the vehicle's seats). Of course, many other vehicle functions and corresponding signals will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0038] Now for reference Figure 2A The illustration depicts a steering member 14, shown as a steering wheel. In this example, the steering member 14 may include heating elements 32 that extend partially around the circumference of the steering wheel. In this example, heating elements 32 are included on the right and left sides of the steering member. The heating elements 32 may be connected by connecting elements 34 extending electrically between these heating elements. Each heating element 32 occupies one-third of the circumference of the steering member 14.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 2B The diagram illustrates a fully heated steering member 14 having heating elements 32 extending circumferentially around it. The amount or spacing of the wires in the heating elements can determine the amount of heat supplied to the user. For example, heating elements 32 with wider spacing may provide less heat than those closer together. While the heating elements 32 are shown, a cover is used over them to provide a smooth surface. Heat from the heating elements 32 travels through the cover.

[0040] The amount or spacing of the heating coils can vary depending on the desired design purpose. Reducing, for example... Figure 2A Medium heating area to increase W / cm 2 This can be used as a goal. This achieves a higher heat target, thus enabling the desired target to be reached more quickly when there is a large area to be heated.

[0041] See now Figures 3A to 3EThe steering system 12 is shown in further detail. The steering system 12 has a steering column 40, which is coupled to the vehicle via a bracket 42. In this example, the steering column 40 can rotate relative to the vehicle at the bracket 42. A handle 44 and a steering mechanism 46 are used to lock the steering column 40 in place. The steering column 40 has a steering shaft 48, which is rotatably coupled relative to the housing 50. That is, the steering shaft 48 rotates within the housing 50. The steering shaft 48 is coupled to the steering member 14. Because the steering member 14 is turned by the vehicle operator, the direction of movement of the steering shaft 48 within the housing 50 is the same as the direction of movement of the steering member 14. Finally, the vehicle's ground engagement member rotates as the steering member 14 and the steering shaft 48 are rotated.

[0042] Housing 50 is stationary during operation. Housing 50 is an example of a stationary component. Stationary coil holder 52 is another stationary component and has a first conductive coil 54 coupled to it. The first conductive coil 54 can be attached to the stationary coil holder 52 in various ways, including with adhesives. However, the stationary coil holder 52 can be overmolded into it. Rotary coil holder 56 is attached to, on, or near the steering member 14. Rotary coil holder 56 can be a separate component or part of the molded steering member. Rotary coil holder 56 has a second conductive coil coupled to it. Coil 58 is attached to the rotary coil holder 56 in a similar manner to the first conductive coil. That is, the second conductive coil can be attached to the rotary coil holder 56 using the adhesives or overmolding described above. The first conductive coil 54 and the second conductive coil 58 are spaced apart by a small gap, small enough to allow the coils to be inductively coupled together.

[0043] Mounting member 60 (four mounting members are shown in this example) extends from stationary coil holder 52 to receive fastener 62 for attaching stationary coil holder 52 to housing 50. Mounting member 60 may also be press-fitted into place instead of using fastener 62.

[0044] Fastener receivers 64 are provided through the rotary coil holder 56 to receive fasteners 66, one of which is shown. The fasteners 66 secure the rotary coil holder 56 to the steering wheel assembly or steering member 14.

[0045] Now for reference Figure 4The steering component 14 is shown in further detail. The steering component 14 may have one or all of the components illustrated in this example. In this example, a steering component user interface 410 is shown, which has multiple switches 412 and buttons 414. These switches or buttons may also be implemented in a knob 417. The knob 417 may be redundant with the knob 27 described above, or may independently control vehicle features or displays 26 or 418. An indicator 416 may also be incorporated into the steering component 14. Display 418 is included within the steering component 14. For example, display 418 may be an LCD display showing color or black-and-white text and images. Switches 412, buttons 414, and knobs 417 can be used to provide or control various vehicle functions. The status of vehicle functions can be displayed on the indicator 416 and / or display 418. For example, switches 412 and buttons 414 can be used to generate heating element control signals directly or indirectly via a controller to control the heating element 32 disposed within the steering component 14. Indicator 416 can be an LED light or other type of indicator. Indicator 416 can have a variety of different colors to indicate different states of various components.

[0046] The steering component controller 420 receives a switching signal (control signal) from switch 412 and a button signal from button 414. The steering component controller 420 can control or communicate with other parts of the vehicle via a first conductive coil and a second conductive coil, as will be described in further detail below. The steering component controller 420 can also be coupled to a thermal sensor 422. The thermal sensor 422 can sense heat provided by a heating element and generate a temperature signal corresponding to the temperature of the heating element 32 within the steering component 14. The thermal sensor 422 may include, but is not limited to, a thermocouple or a thermistor. The indicator 416 may be an LED light or other type of indicator. The indicator 416 may have multiple different colors to indicate different states of various components.

[0047] A tactile feedback device 430 may also be provided within the steering member 14. The tactile feedback device may vibrate to provide a warning based on the sensed conditions.

[0048] Memory 432 is also associated with steering component controller 420. Memory 432 can be used to store various commands that will be input to and output to the system as a buffer. Memory 432 can also store button functions, knob functions, or switch functions. That is, the functions of buttons, knobs, or switches can be changed according to the user in some examples. Therefore, memory 432 can be refreshable, as will be described in further detail below.

[0049] Now for reference Figure 5The electrical configuration of the steering system 12 is illustrated. In this example, a vehicle-side controller 28 is shown, which communicates with a wireless interface 510. The wireless interface 510 includes a first conductive coil 54 and a second conductive coil 58. The second conductive coil 58 communicates with a steering component controller 420. The vehicle-side controller 28 is coupled to a vehicle power supply 512. The power supply 512 communicates with an oscillator and a full-bridge driver 514, which drives the wireless interface. Specifically, the first conductive coil 54 is used to magnetically induce a current in the second conductive coil 58. This is used to drive a load 415 through a rectifier circuit 518, which rectifies the signal and provides DC power to the load 516. The rectifier 518 is optional and can take many forms depending on whether regulated AC power is required. In this example, the rectifier has four diodes D1, D2, D3, and D4. Diode D1 is coupled at its anode to the second conductive coil 58. The cathode of diode D3 is coupled to the anode of diode D1 and the second conductive coil 58. The second end of the conductive coil 58 is coupled to the cathode of diode D4 and the anode of diode D2. The cathodes of diodes D1 and D2 are coupled to the load 516. The anodes of diodes D3 and D4 are coupled to the other side of the load. Capacitor C1 is coupled to the anode of diode D1 and the cathode of diode D3. Similarly, capacitor C2 can be coupled to and connected in parallel with the load 516.

[0050] The oscillator circuit and full-bridge driver circuit 514 can be coupled to four MOSFET transistors. These transistors are used to drive the first conductive coil via capacitor C3. In this example, four MOSFETs T1, T2, T3, and T4 are provided. In this example, the gates of transistors T1 and T3 are coupled to the oscillator and full-bridge driver 514. Similarly, the gates of transistors T1 and T4 are coupled to the oscillator and full-bridge driver 514. The drains of transistors T1 and T2 are coupled to power supply 512. The sources of transistors T3 and T4 are coupled to the negative side of power supply 512. The source of transistor T1 is coupled to the drain of transistor T3. The source of transistor T2 is coupled to the drain of transistor T4. The node between transistors T1 and T3 is coupled to a first side of the first conductive coil 54. The node between the source of transistor T2 and the drain of transistor T4 is coupled to the other side of the first conductive coil T4. As mentioned above, bidirectional communication is also possible via the first conductive coil 54 and the second conductive coil 58. The vehicle-side controller 28 includes a demodulator / modulator 520 that communicates with a Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter (UART) controller 522. The UART controller 522 receives signals and transmits signals to a controller area network 30. A first conductive coil 54 is used for both receiving and transmitting signals. A modulator / demodulator 530 is coupled to or communicates with the modulator / demodulator 520 via the first conductive coil 54 and a second conductive coil 58. The modulator / demodulator 520 / 530 can be formed as an integral integrated circuit or as a separate component. Specifically, the modulator / demodulator 530 communicates with the UART controller 532 and ultimately with components within the steering member 14 via the controller area network 30. As mentioned above, the steering member 14 may include a display 418, a feedback device 436, steering member controls 412 / 514, and a heated steering member thermal sensor 422.

[0051] In operation, the controller area network 30 receives signals from switches, buttons, or other components and communicates with modulator / demodulator 530 and modulator / demodulator 520. Asynchronous serial signals are generated at controllers 522 and 532. Modulator / demodulator 520 transmits the serial signal to modulator / demodulator 530 via a first conductive coil 54 and a second conductive coil 58, and vice versa. Finally, different displays or controls are provided on the vehicle side or the steering component side. A suitable example of modulator / demodulator 520 / 530 is the Renesas P9221-R3 and P9242-R3.

[0052] Now for reference Figure 6A simplified view of the control system for heating the steering element is specifically illustrated. In this example, a power supply 512 and a vehicle communication system, such as a controller area network 30, are illustrated, coupled to a vehicle-side controller 228. A vehicle-side induction coil 54 is coupled to a steering element-side induction coil 58. The vehicle-side controller 28 can determine the amount of current (current control signal) to be supplied to the steering element-side induction coil 58 to heat the steering element heating element. The amount of current can be determined based on a temperature setting selected using a user interface. Buttons, knobs, or switches in the vehicle can be used to generate the heating element control signal. The steering element controller 420 communicates with the steering element-side induction coil. In this example, four options are provided for the steering element heating system. In option 1, the heating element 32, the thermal sensor 422, and the steering element control (button) 414 all communicate with the steering element controller 420. The thermal sensor 422 can transmit thermal sensor signals (temperature signals) all the way to the vehicle-side controller for monitoring within the vehicle. All components 32, 422, and 412 / 414 communicate with the steering component controller 420.

[0053] In Option 2, the same components as those in Option 1 are provided, except that the heating element 32 in the steering member 14 communicates directly with the steering member-side induction coil 58 instead of the steering member controller 420.

[0054] In option 3, the steering component-side induction coil 58 is coupled to a thermal switch or thermostatic fuse 610. The thermal switch or thermostatic fuse 610 prevents the heating element in the steering component 14 from overheating. The thermostatic fuse 610 allows the steering component 14 to reach its maximum temperature.

[0055] In option 4, the heating element 32 is configured to be directly coupled to the steering component-side induction coil 58. In this example, the steering component controller 420 has been eliminated. In option 3, the steering component controller 420 has also been eliminated. Options 3 and 4 are simplified versions that may or may not use bidirectional communication between the vehicle-side induction coil 54 and the steering component-side induction coil 58.

[0056] Now for reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 By way of example, the system can be used to control gear shifting in a transmission. The transmission selector can be one of a button or a switch located on the steering component. In step 710, the user requests a gear shift from a knob, button, or switch located on the steering component. In step 712, a transmission shift signal (message) is generated from the knob, button, or switch. Figure 8The diagram details a knob, button, or switch. The knob, button, or switch may include various high, low, reverse, neutral, and parking gear positions that are illuminated during the command process. The knob, button, or switch may also be part of the display 418. In step 714, a transmission shift signal is sent to the knob that displays a shift in progress screen at the vehicle. However, a transmission shift signal 716 may also be received at the knob to display a shift in progress screen at 718. The transmission shift signal is wirelessly transmitted from the second transceiver and the second conductive coil to the first conductive coil and the first transceiver. In step 720, the vehicle controller 28 receives the transmission shift signal and initiates a transmission shift. This can be performed directly by a separate transmission controller. In step 722, the controller completes the shift. In step 724, a status signal or status message is sent to the knob, where the current gear is displayed on the display. The status message can be transmitted via the first conductive coil and the first transceiver to the second conductive coil and the second transceiver of the steering component. In step 726, the knob, shift button, switch, or other display shows the current gear selection. Bidirectional communication is used in the communication from the knob, button, or switch to the vehicle controller, and then back to the knob, button, or switch upon receiving a status.

[0057] Now for reference Figure 9 The functions of buttons, knobs, or switches can also be refreshed. That is, memory 432 can be changed according to different functions to suit the needs of the vehicle operator. In step 910, a refresh selection is generated. The refresh selection can be transmitted as a refresh selection signal to a vehicle controller within the vehicle controller. In step 912, the button for refresh is selected using the vehicle's vehicle interface and controller. In step 914, a refresh signal command is transmitted to the transceiver on the vehicle side. In step 916, the refresh command is received at the steering-side transceiver. In step 918, the button, knob, or switch is assigned and stored in memory 432 associated with the steering component controller. This process can be initiated and processed under the control of the steering component controller 420 or the vehicle controller 28.

[0058] Now for reference Figure 10This describes a method for transmitting a serial signal to a vehicle controller. In step 1010, a button, sensor, or feedback signal is transmitted from a steering component button or other device positioned on the steering wheel or steering component. For example, the sensor could be a pressure sensor, accelerometer, audio microphone, or temperature input. In step 1012, the button, sensor, or feedback signal is transmitted to a universal asynchronous transceiver (UAST). In step 1014, a serial signal is generated at the UAST. In step 1016, the serial signal is transmitted to a steering-side transmitter. In step 1018, the signal may also be displayed at the steering display. This step is optional. In step 1020, the transmitted serial button signal is transmitted to a vehicle-side transceiver. This is an inductive coupling as mentioned above. In step 1022, the serial signal is finally transmitted to a vehicle controller within the vehicle controller.

[0059] Now for reference Figure 11 In step 1110, a control signal is generated at the vehicle controller 28. This can be performed in response to a serial signal at the vehicle controller. In step 1112, the control signal is transmitted to the vehicle-side UART. In step 1114, the UART generates a serial control signal. In step 1116, the control signal is transmitted from the vehicle transmitter, and in step 1118, the control signal is received at the steering component controller 420. In step 1120, a display can be generated at the steering system. In step 1122, an action can be performed, such as turning the steering wheel heating system on or off.

[0060] Now refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 This image shows a portion of a steering column 40. As mentioned above, the steering column 40 has a housing 50 surrounding it. A steering shaft 48 is disposed within the housing and rotates within the stationary housing 50. The steering column 40 and housing 50 have a longitudinal axis 1210. A first conductive coil 1212 is disposed around the housing 50 and extends in the axial direction L1. The first conductive coil 1212 is cylindrical in shape and has a length of L1. Because the entire coil assembly is smaller in the radial direction, the entire coil assembly is easier to encapsulate by extending the first coil in the axial direction.

[0061] A dielectric layer 1214 may be disposed between the first conductive coil 1212 and the housing 50. The dielectric layer 1214 may be non-conductive but thermally conductive, allowing the housing 50 to act as a heat sink to dissipate heat from the first conductive coil 1212. The dielectric layer 1214 may be formed of other graphite materials or other thermally conductive materials that allow flux to be absorbed into the coil 1212 without being absorbed into the housing 50, while allowing heat to be transferred through it. The dielectric layer 1214 serves to direct magnetic flux to other coils 1216 without being absorbed in the steering wheel, while allowing heat from the first conductive coil 1212 to be absorbed into the steering column 40.

[0062] The second conductive coil 1216 is radially spaced from and coaxial with the first conductive coil 1212. In this example, the second conductive coil 1216 is also cylindrical and extends a distance L2 in the longitudinal direction. Similarly, the radial thickness of the second conductive coil 1216 decreases as the winding of the coil 1216 extends in the axial direction.

[0063] As mentioned above, the combination of two thin-layer coils 1212 and 1216 allows for easier encapsulation of the coil assembly. More specifically, by stacking the cylindrical first conductive coil with the equally cylindrical second conductive coil, the radial depth from the steering housing is reduced compared to the previously shown example. Furthermore, because heat from the cylindrical coil is distributed over a larger area of ​​the steering shaft, which acts as a heat sink, heat dissipation from the coil is reduced by using the cylindrical coil. The second conductive coil 1216 can be wound around a steering wheel with an aluminum frame. The aluminum frame of the steering wheel serves as a heat sink for the second conductive coil.

[0064] Examples are provided to make this disclosure thorough and to fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of particular components, apparatus, and methods, are described to provide a thorough understanding of the examples in this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that the examples may be implemented in many different forms, and none of these should be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some examples, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0065] The foregoing description of examples has been provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Individual elements and features of a specific example are generally not limited to that specific example, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected examples even if not explicitly shown or described. Variations are also possible in various ways. Such variations are not considered to depart from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system for communicating with components on a vehicle's steering mechanism, the system comprising: A first conductive coil is attached to a stationary component around the steering axle of the vehicle; A second conductive coil is coupled to the steering member and rotates with the steering member, wherein the first conductive coil and the second conductive coil are cylindrical; A first transceiver, the first transceiver being coupled to the first conductive coil; A second transceiver is coupled to the second conductive coil and is operatively coupled to the first transceiver in a wireless manner. The first conductive coil induces a current in the second conductive coil to power a first component among these components, the first conductive coil being spaced apart from the second conductive coil, the first component including a steering member heating element; The steering component includes a thermal sensor that generates a temperature signal. The second transceiver transmits the temperature signal from the thermal sensor via the steering wheel controller. The thermal sensor is integrated into the steering component. The steering wheel controller is communicatively coupled to the vehicle controller via the second transceiver and the second conductive coil, and the first transceiver and the first conductive coil.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein, The first conductive coil is overmolded, and the second conductive coil is also overmolded.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein, The first conductive coil is overmolded onto a stationary coil holder, and the second conductive coil is overmolded onto a rotating coil holder.

4. The system of claim 3, further comprising a housing disposed around the steering axis, the stationary coil mount being coupled to the housing.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein, The first conductive coil is attached to the steering housing and is positioned in the axial direction and coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the steering component; Furthermore, the second conductive coil is radially spaced from the first conductive coil and the steering housing, and is coaxial with the first conductive coil and the steering housing.

6. The system of claim 5, further comprising a dielectric layer radially disposed between the steering housing and the first conductive coil.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein, The first transceiver and the second transceiver communicate wirelessly in two directions through the first conductive coil and the second conductive coil.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle controller transmits a heating element control signal to the first transceiver and the first conductive coil. The second transceiver receives the heating element control signal, and the heating element control signal controls the steering component heating element.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle controller transmits the heating element control signal to the first transceiver and the first conductive coil. The second transceiver receives the heating element control signal and transmits it to the steering component controller to control the steering component heating element.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein, The steering component includes a button for generating a button signal, wherein the button signal is transmitted from the second transceiver to the first transceiver via the second conductive coil and the first conductive coil.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein, The first transceiver transmits the serial signal to the second transceiver.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein, The steering component includes an indicator and further includes a steering component controller that controls the indicator using an indicator signal transmitted from the first transceiver to the second transceiver.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein, The steering component includes a display and further includes a steering component controller that controls the display using display signals transmitted from the first transceiver to the second transceiver.

14. A method for communicating with components on a steering member, the method comprising: Control the first conductive coil positioned around the steering shaft; In response to control, a current is induced in a second conductive coil coupled to the steering member to supply power to the first component, the first conductive coil being spaced apart from the second conductive coil; as well as Signals are transmitted wirelessly bidirectionally between a first transceiver coupled to the first conductive coil and a second transceiver coupled to the second conductive coil. The wireless bidirectional signal transmission includes: A thermal sensor signal from a thermal sensor is transmitted via a steering wheel controller, wherein the thermal sensor is integrated into the steering component, and the steering wheel controller initiates the transmission of the thermal sensor signal from the second transceiver to the first transceiver; and The control signal for the steering component heating element is transmitted from the first transceiver to the second transceiver.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The wireless bidirectional signal transmission includes: transmitting a transmission shift signal, vehicle mode signal, or music control signal from the user interface from the second transceiver to the first transceiver; controlling the transmission shift in response to the transmission shift signal, vehicle mode signal, or music control signal; and transmitting a status signal from the first transceiver to the second transceiver.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein, The wireless bidirectional signal transmission includes: transmitting a thermal sensor signal from the second transceiver to the first transceiver, generating a current control signal in response to the thermal sensor signal, and transmitting the current control signal from the first transceiver to the second transceiver.

17. A method for communicating with a component on a steering member, the method comprising: Control the first conductive coil positioned around the steering shaft; In response to control, a current is induced in a second conductive coil coupled to the steering member to supply power to the first component, the first conductive coil being spaced apart from the second conductive coil; as well as Signals are transmitted wirelessly bidirectionally between a first transceiver coupled to the first conductive coil and a second transceiver coupled to the second conductive coil. The wireless bidirectional signal transmission includes: transmitting thermal sensor signals and user interface signals from the steering wheel controller to the first transceiver via the second transceiver, and transmitting control signals from the first transceiver to the second transceiver.

18. A method for operating a steering assembly of a vehicle having a steering member, the method comprising: The vehicle's controller receives a user input signal indicating the temperature setting from the steering wheel controller; The amount of current to be supplied to the first conductive coil is determined based on the temperature setting, wherein the first conductive coil is coupled around the steering shaft; Based on the amount of current, the vehicle's controller supplies current to the first conductive coil, wherein the first conductive coil is configured to wirelessly power the second conductive coil, and wherein the second conductive coil is configured to power the heating element. The temperature of the heating element is sensed at the thermal sensor; and The thermal sensor signal obtained from the thermal sensor is wirelessly transmitted from the steering wheel controller to the vehicle controller.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The first conductive coil is configured to wirelessly power the second conductive coil based on an induced second current.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising limiting the amount of current based on feedback from a thermal sensor disposed at the steering member.

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