A stowable steering wheel
By designing a folding assembly between the fixed and movable sections of the retractable steering wheel, the problem of the steering wheel taking up too much space is solved. This allows for storage when not in use and quick unfolding when needed, improving passenger space and driving convenience.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202211551020.9
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2022-12-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-09
- Estimated Expiration
- 2042-12-05
AI Technical Summary
In autonomous vehicles, the steering wheel takes up a lot of space when not in use, affecting the space for passengers to move around.
Design a retractable steering wheel that can be stored and unfolded through a folding component between a fixed segment and a movable segment. The extended segment is slidably set within the movable segment, and the steering wheel can be switched between its storage and use states through a snap-fit and unlocking component.
When not in use, the steering wheel reduces the space it occupies, increasing the space for passenger movement; when needed, it can be quickly unfolded into a full steering wheel for easy manual driving operation.
Smart Images

Figure CN115783028B_ABST
Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of vehicle parts, in particular to a storable steering wheel. BACKGROUND
[0002] An autonomous vehicle, also known as a self-driving vehicle, computer-driven vehicle, or wheeled mobile robot, is an intelligent vehicle that realizes unmanned driving through a computer system. With the development of autonomous driving technology, in subsequent L4 / L5 autonomous driving scenarios, the steering wheel becomes an optional component.
[0003] Therefore, a storable steering wheel capable of being stored and improving the activity space of passengers needs to be designed. SUMMARY
[0004] The present application aims to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a storable steering wheel that can be stored when not in use, saving space and improving the activity space of passengers.
[0005] The technical solution of the present application provides a storable steering wheel, which comprises a steering column, a fixed ring segment, and a movable ring segment, a folding assembly is connected between the fixed ring segment and the movable ring segment and the steering column, and a protruding segment is movably arranged in the movable ring segment.
[0006] The steering wheel comprises a storage state and an unfolded state.
[0007] When in the storage state, the protruding segment is received into the interior of the movable ring segment, and the fixed ring segment and the movable ring segment can be folded towards the steering column by the folding assembly.
[0008] When in the unfolded state, the fixed ring segment and the movable ring segment are unfolded to be in the same plane by the folding assembly, and the protruding segment protrudes to the outside of the movable ring segment and connects the fixed ring segment.
[0009] Optionally, an active cavity is arranged in the movable ring segment, the active cavity comprises an air inlet and an outlet, the protruding segment is slidably arranged in the active cavity and can protrude from the outlet to the outside of the active cavity, the air inlet is connected with a first air inlet assembly, and the first air inlet assembly ventilates the air inlet to push the protruding segment to slide towards the outlet.
[0010] Optionally, an end of the protruding segment is provided with a first clamping piece, an end of the fixed ring segment is provided with a second clamping piece, an unlocking assembly is arranged in the fixed ring segment, and the unlocking assembly is linked with the second clamping piece.
[0011] When in the unfolded state, the first clamping piece is clamped with the second clamping piece.
[0012] When unlocked, the unlocking assembly drives the second clamping piece to act, and the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece are separated.
[0013] Optionally, the first clamping piece comprises a first docking column, the first docking column is provided with a first guide slope, and a first clamping groove is arranged between the first docking column and the extending section.
[0014] The second clamping piece comprises a clamping port and an elastic blocking piece, the elastic blocking piece is movably arranged in the clamping port, the elastic blocking piece has an opening, and the unlocking assembly is linked with the elastic blocking piece.
[0015] When locked, the first docking column moves towards the direction close to the fixed ring section, the first guide slope contacts the elastic blocking piece and pushes the opening to be opened.
[0016] When the elastic blocking piece moves relatively to the first clamping groove, the elastic blocking piece is elastically reset and clamped into the clamping port.
[0017] When unlocked, the unlocking assembly drives the elastic blocking piece to act, so that the elastic blocking piece is separated from the first clamping groove.
[0018] Optionally, the elastic blocking piece comprises a blocking part and an elastic part, the first ends of the two blocking parts are connected, the opening is formed between the two blocking parts, and the elastic part is connected between the second ends of the blocking parts and the fixed ring section.
[0019] When locked, the first guide slope contacts the blocking part and pushes the second ends of the two blocking parts to act in the direction away from each other, so that the opening is opened, and the elastic part is deformed and stored energy.
[0020] When the blocking part moves relatively to the first clamping groove, the elastic part releases energy and drives the blocking part to reset, and the blocking part is clamped into the first clamping groove.
[0021] Optionally, the unlocking assembly comprises a first movable block and an unlocking rod, the first movable block is slidably connected with the fixed ring section, the unlocking rod is connected with the first movable block, the unlocking rod is provided with a second guide slope, and the first end of the blocking part is connected with the unlocking rod and can slide along the second guide slope.
[0022] When unlocked, the first movable block drives the unlocking rod to act, the first end of the blocking part slides relatively along the high end of the second guide slope, the second ends of the two blocking parts act in the direction away from each other and make the opening open, and the blocking part is separated from the first clamping groove.
[0023] Optionally, the first clamping piece comprises a second connecting column, and a first clamping block is arranged on the second connecting column; the second clamping piece comprises a clamping interface and a connecting head, the connecting head is arranged in the clamping interface, the connecting head is provided with a second clamping block, and the connecting head is movably connected with the fixed ring segment; and the unlocking assembly is linked with the connecting head.
[0024] When in the unfolded state, the first clamping block and the second clamping block are clamped in the same linear direction.
[0025] Optionally, the unlocking assembly comprises a second movable block and a screw rod, the second movable block is slidably connected with the fixed ring segment, the second movable block is connected with the screw rod, the connecting head is rotatably connected with the fixed ring segment, and the connecting head is threadedly matched with the screw rod.
[0026] When unlocked, the second movable block drives the screw rod to move, the connecting head rotates relative to the screw rod, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block are dislocated and separated.
[0027] Optionally, the unlocking assembly further comprises an elastic member, the elastic member connects the connecting head and the fixed ring segment, and the fixed ring segment is provided with a first limiting protrusion and a second limiting protrusion.
[0028] When locked, the second clamping block is kept in abutment with the first limiting protrusion under the elastic force of the elastic member, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block are in the same linear direction.
[0029] When unlocked, the connecting head rotates to abut the second clamping block against the second limiting protrusion, and the first clamping block and the second clamping block are dislocated and separated.
[0030] Optionally, a trigger circuit and a vehicle-mounted computer are further included, the trigger circuit is in communication connection with the vehicle-mounted computer, and the vehicle-mounted computer is in communication connection with the first air inlet assembly.
[0031] The trigger circuit comprises a first conductive piece and a second conductive piece, the first conductive piece is arranged on the extending segment, and the second conductive piece is arranged on the fixed ring segment.
[0032] When the extending segment is connected with the fixed ring segment, the first conductive piece is electrically connected with the second conductive piece, the trigger circuit is in communication, signals are sent to the vehicle-mounted computer, and the vehicle-mounted computer controls the first air inlet assembly to stop moving.
[0033] Optionally, the movable ring section and / or the fixed ring section further comprises a ventilation assembly, the ventilation assembly comprising a ventilation cavity and a second air inlet assembly connected with the ventilation cavity, the movable ring section and / or the fixed ring section further being provided with ventilation holes for communicating between the inside and outside of the ventilation cavity, the ventilation cavity being not communicated with the movable cavity.
[0034] Optionally, the folding assembly comprises a sliding block, a first linkage assembly and a second linkage assembly, the sliding block being slidingly connected with the steering column;
[0035] The first linkage assembly comprises a first linkage and a second linkage, the first end of the first linkage being hingedly connected with the steering column, the second end of the first linkage being connected with the movable ring section;
[0036] The first end of the second linkage is hingedly connected with the sliding block, the second end of the second linkage being hingedly connected between the first end and the second end of the first linkage;
[0037] The second linkage assembly comprises a third linkage and a fourth linkage;
[0038] The first end of the third linkage is hingedly connected with the sliding block, the second end of the third linkage being hingedly connected with the fixed ring section;
[0039] The first end of the fourth linkage is hingedly connected with the steering column, the second end of the fourth linkage being hingedly connected between the first end and the second end of the third linkage.
[0040] With the above technical solution, the following beneficial effects are achieved:
[0041] The fixed ring section and the movable ring section in the present application can be folded and unfolded through the folding assembly. When the steering wheel is not needed to be used, the extending section in the movable ring section is received into the inside of the movable ring section, and the movable ring section and the fixed ring section are folded towards the steering column through the folding assembly, so that the volume of the steering wheel is reduced for easy storage, the occupied space of the steering wheel is reduced, and the activity space of the passengers is improved. When the steering wheel is needed to be used, the movable ring section and the fixed ring section are unfolded to the same plane through the folding assembly, and the extending section is extended from the inside of the movable ring section to be connected with the fixed ring section, so that the connection between the movable ring section and the fixed ring section forms the steering wheel, for the manual driving operation of the passengers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0042] The disclosure will become more apparent with the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are only for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application. In the drawings:
[0043] Figure 1is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when not connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0044] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0045] Figure 3 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0046] Figure 4 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0047] Figure 5 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0048] Figure 6 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0049] Figure 7 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0050] Figure 8 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0051] Figure 9 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0052] Figure 10 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0053] Figure 11 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0054] Figure 12 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0055] Figure 13 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0056] Figure 14 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0057] Figure 15 is a schematic view of the extension section of the present application when connected to the fixed ring section in one embodiment thereof;
[0058] Figure legend table:
[0059] Steering column 1;
[0060] The fixed ring segment 2:
[0061] The second clamping piece 20;
[0062] The clamping interface 21, the first limiting block 211, the second limiting block 212;
[0063] The elastic blocking piece 22: the opening 220, the blocking part 221, the elastic part 222;
[0064] The unlocking assembly 23: the first movable block 231, the unlocking rod 232, the second guide inclined surface 233, the limiting hook 234, the second movable block 235, the screw rod 236;
[0065] The accommodating port 24;
[0066] The butt joint 25, the second clamping block 251;
[0067] The reset spring 26, the elastic piece 27;
[0068] The movable ring segment 3:
[0069] The extension segment 31, the sealing washer 311;
[0070] The first clamping piece 32, the first butt joint column 321, the first guide inclined surface 322, the first clamping groove 323, the second butt joint column 324, the first clamping block 325;
[0071] The movable cavity 33, the air inlet 331, the outlet 332, the first limiting part 333, the second limiting part 334;
[0072] The first air inlet assembly 34: the first air inlet cavity 341, the first air inlet pipeline 342;
[0073] The limiting column 35, the connecting column 36;
[0074] The ventilation assembly 37, the ventilation cavity 371, the second air inlet assembly 372, the ventilation hole 373;
[0075] The folding assembly 4:
[0076] The sliding block 40;
[0077] The first connecting rod assembly 41, the first connecting rod 411, the second connecting rod 412;
[0078] The second connecting rod assembly 42, the third connecting rod 421, the fourth connecting rod 422. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0079] The specific embodiments of the present application will be further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[0080] It is easy to understand that according to the technical solutions of the present application, a person skilled in the art can replace various structural modes and implementation modes without changing the essential spirit of the present application. Therefore, the following specific embodiments and drawings are only exemplary descriptions of the technical solutions of the present application, and should not be considered as the whole or as a limitation or restriction on the technical solutions of the application.
[0081] In the present specification, the orientation terms such as up, down, left, right, front, back, front, back, top, bottom, etc. mentioned or possibly mentioned are defined with respect to the structure shown in the drawings, which are relative concepts, so they can be changed accordingly according to different positions and different use states. Therefore, these or other orientation terms should not be interpreted as restrictive terms. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third" are only for descriptive purposes and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0082] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "mounting", "connection", "connection" should be understood broadly, for example, it can be fixedly connected, or it can be detachably connected, or integrally connected; it can be mechanically connected, or it can be electrically connected; it can be directly connected, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium; it can be the communication inside two components. For a person skilled in the art, the above belongs to the specific meaning in the present application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.
[0083] In one embodiment of the present application, a storable steering wheel is disclosed, as shown in Figures 1-5 It comprises a steering column 1, a fixed ring segment 2 and a movable ring segment 3, and a folding assembly 4 is connected between the fixed ring segment 2 and the movable ring segment 3 and the steering column 1, and a protruding segment 31 is movably arranged in the movable ring segment 3.
[0084] The steering wheel comprises a storage state and an unfolded state.
[0085] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 4 When in the storage state, the protruding segment 31 is received into the inside of the movable ring segment 3, and the fixed ring segment 2 and the movable ring segment 3 can be folded towards the steering column 1 through the folding assembly 4.
[0086] As shown in Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 When in the unfolded state, the fixed ring segment 2 and the movable ring segment 3 are unfolded to be in the same plane through the folding assembly 4, and the protruding segment 31 is extended to the outside of the movable ring segment 3 and connected to the fixed ring segment 2.
[0087] Further, the movable ring segments 3 are symmetrically arranged at least two with the center of the steering column 1, and the fixed ring segments 2 are symmetrically arranged at least two with the center of the steering column 1. The movable ring segments 3 are arranged at intervals with the fixed ring segments 2.
[0088] The movable ring segments 3 and the fixed ring segments 2 can be folded or unfolded relative to the steering column 1. When folded, the protruding segments 31 in the movable ring segments 3 are retracted into the inside of the movable ring segments 3, thereby reducing the size of the movable ring segments 3. Then, the movable ring segments 3 and the fixed ring segments 2 are folded towards the steering column 1 by the folding assembly 4, so that the overall size of the steering wheel is reduced, thereby facilitating the hiding of the steering wheel. The steering column 1 can be telescopic and rotatable for hiding, thereby further increasing the space of the passenger compartment. When switched to the manual driving mode, the fixed ring segments 2 and the movable ring segments 3 are unfolded to the same plane by the folding assembly 4, and the protruding segments 31 are extended to the outside of the movable ring segments 3. The end of the protruding segment 31 is spliced with the end of the fixed ring segment 2, so that the fixed ring segment 2 and the movable ring segment 3 are connected to form a complete or notched circular, elliptical, square or rectangular steering wheel, thereby facilitating the manual operation of the vehicle by the passenger.
[0089] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 6 The movable ring segments 3 are provided with movable cavities 33, which include air inlets 331 and outlets 332. The protruding segments 31 are slidably arranged in the movable cavities 33 and can be extended to the outside of the movable cavities 33 from the outlets 332. The air inlets 331 are connected to the first air inlet assembly 34, which supplies air to the air inlets 331 to push the protruding segments 31 to slide towards the outlets 332.
[0090] Further, as shown in Figure 6 The movable ring segments 3 are provided with two symmetrical protruding segments 31 and movable cavities 33. The first air inlet assembly 34 includes a first air inlet cavity 341 and a first air inlet pipe 342. The first air inlet pipe 342 is connected to an air source, and the first air inlet cavity 341 is formed between the two protruding segments 31 and is connected to the first air inlet pipe 342. The first limiting portion 333 is arranged at one end of the movable cavity 33 close to the first air inlet pipe 342, and the second limiting portion 334 is arranged at one end of the movable cavity 33 close to the outlet 332. The first limiting portion 333 and the second limiting portion 334 can limit the activity range of the protruding segment 31 to avoid the protruding segment 31 from being separated from the movable ring segment 3 or blocking the first air inlet pipe 342.
[0091] In addition, a sealing washer 311 is arranged at the end of the extension section 31 close to the first air inlet pipe 342, which can improve the sealing of the first air inlet cavity 341. When the gas is input into the first air inlet cavity 341 through the first air inlet pipe 342, the extension section 31 is pushed to extend the movable cavity 33 towards the outlet 332 under the action of the gas pressure. When the extension section 31 is retracted into the movable ring section 3, the first air inlet pipe 342 reversely draws the gas to form a negative pressure in the first air inlet cavity 341, so that the extension section 31 can move towards the inside of the movable ring section 3 and be retracted into the inside of the movable ring section 3.
[0092] Furthermore, magnets with opposite magnetic properties are arranged at the ends of the two extension sections 31 close to the first air inlet pipe 342, which can generate a force in the direction of approaching each other between the two extension sections 31, so as to ensure that the extension section 31 will not extend the movable cavity 33 due to the vibration of the vehicle when the extension section 31 is retracted into the movable ring section 3.
[0093] Optionally, a limiting block can be arranged in the movable cavity 33, and a limiting block slot is arranged on the extension section 31. When the extension section 31 is retracted into the movable cavity 33, the limiting block and the limiting block slot are clamped, so as to limit the movement of the extension section 31.
[0094] In some embodiments of the present application, the end of the extension section 31 is provided with a first clamping part 32, the end of the fixed ring section 2 is provided with a second clamping part 20, and the fixed ring section 2 is provided with an unlocking assembly 23 which is linked with the second clamping part 20.
[0095] When in the unfolded state, the first clamping part 32 is clamped with the second clamping part 20.
[0096] When unlocked, the unlocking assembly 23 drives the second clamping part 20 to move, and the first clamping part 32 and the second clamping part 20 are separated.
[0097] The first clamping part 32 is arranged at the end of the extension section 31 away from the first air inlet pipe 342, and the second clamping part 20 is arranged at the end of the fixed ring section 2. When the extension section 31 is extended to be spliced with the end of the fixed ring section 2, the first clamping part 32 is clamped with the second clamping part 20, so as to realize the connection and fixation between the fixed ring section 2 and the movable ring section 3.
[0098] In addition, by arranging the unlocking assembly 23, when the steering wheel is not needed to be used, the unlocking assembly 23 can drive the second clamping part 20 to move, so as to separate the first clamping part 32 and the second clamping part 20. At this time, the extension section 31 can be retracted into the inside of the movable ring section 3, so as to be conveniently stored.
[0099] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown inFigure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in
[0100] As shown in Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown in
[0101] When locked, the first connecting post 321 moves towards the fixed ring segment 2, the first guide slope 322 contacts the elastic blocking piece 22 and pushes the opening 220 open.
[0102] When the elastic blocking piece 22 moves to the first clamping groove 323, the elastic blocking piece 22 is elastically reset and clamped into the clamping interface 21.
[0103] When unlocked, the unlocking assembly 23 drives the elastic blocking piece 22 to act so that the elastic blocking piece 22 is separated from the first clamping groove 323.
[0104] Further, as shown in Figure 8 The first connecting piece 32 further includes a limiting post 35 and a connecting post 36, the limiting post 35 is fixedly connected to the end of the extending segment 31, and the connecting post 36 is connected between the limiting post 35 and the first connecting post 321, wherein the first clamping groove 323 is formed between the limiting post 35 and the first connecting post 321. The diameter of the limiting post 35 is the same as the diameter of the clamping interface 21.
[0105] Further, as shown in Figure 8 The first connecting post 321 is a conical structure or a similar conical structure, wherein the diameter of the first connecting post 321 gradually decreases away from the extending segment 31, so that the surface of the first connecting post 321 forms the first guide slope 322.
[0106] As shown in Figure 9As shown, the card interface 21 is further provided with a receiving opening 24 for receiving the first connecting post 321, when locked, the first connecting post 321 enters into the card interface 21 and the first guide slope 322 of the first connecting post 321 contacts the elastic blocking piece 22, the elastic blocking piece 22 is deformed under the guidance of the first guide slope 322 and makes the opening 220 expand, when the elastic blocking piece 22 moves to the position of the first clamping groove 323, the elastic blocking piece 22 resets under the elastic action and is clamped into the card interface 21, thereby limiting the axial movement of the first connecting post 321. At the same time, the first connecting post 321 enters into the receiving opening 24 and the limiting post 35 is clamped into the card interface 21, the limiting post 35 can limit the radial movement of the first connecting post 321, and the movable ring segment 3 is flushly connected with the side surface of the fixed ring segment 2, so that the direct connection between the movable ring segment 3 and the fixed ring segment 2 is more stable, firm, smooth and beautiful.
[0107] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 9 The elastic blocking piece 22 includes a blocking part 221 and an elastic part 222, the first ends of the two blocking parts 221 are connected, the opening 220 is formed between the two blocking parts 221, and the elastic part 222 is connected between the second ends of the blocking parts 221 and the fixed ring segment 2.
[0108] When locked, the first guide slope 322 contacts the blocking part 221 and pushes the second ends of the two blocking parts 221 to move away from each other, so that the opening 220 is expanded and the elastic part 222 is deformed and stores energy.
[0109] When the blocking part 221 moves to the first clamping groove 323, the elastic part 222 releases energy and drives the blocking part 221 to reset, and the blocking part 221 is clamped into the first clamping groove 323.
[0110] Further, as shown in Figure 9 The blocking part 221 and the elastic part 222 are an integrally formed metal piece, the first ends of the two blocking parts 221 are fixedly connected together and form a V-shaped structure, and the elastic part 222 has a coiled shape. The elastic part 222 can be deformed and generate elastic force, and the elastic part 222 is connected with the fixed ring segment 2 through a connecting pin.
[0111] Further, as shown in Figure 9As shown, at least part of the blocking part 221 is at the end of the accommodating opening 24, and at least part of the blocking part 221 is on the active track of the first docking column 321. When the first docking column 321 is inserted into the accommodating opening 24, the first guide slope 322 on the first docking column 321 can be in contact with the blocking part 221 and push the two blocking parts 221 to move away from each other, so that the opening 220 is enlarged, so that the first docking column 321 can be further inserted into the accommodating opening 24, and the elastic part 222 is elastically deformed and stored. When the first docking column 321 is completely inserted into the accommodating opening 24, the blocking part 221 is relatively moved to the position of the first clamping groove 323, the elastic part 222 is released and drives the blocking part 221 to reset and clamp into the first clamping groove 323, thereby limiting the position of the first docking column 321.
[0112] Optionally, the at least two blocking parts 221 are slidably connected at both ends of the clamping opening 21, and the elastic part 222 is connected between the blocking part 221 and the fixed ring segment 2. When the first docking column 321 is inserted, the two blocking parts 221 can be pushed to slide away from each other, and when the blocking part 221 is relatively slid to the position of the first clamping groove 323, the blocking part 221 is clamped into the first clamping groove 323 under the elastic force of the elastic part 222.
[0113] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 7 The unlocking assembly 23 includes a first movable block 231 and an unlocking rod 232, the first movable block 231 is slidably connected with the fixed ring segment 2, and the unlocking rod 232 is connected with the first movable block 231, as shown in Figure 10 The unlocking rod 232 is provided with a second guide slope 233, and the first end of the blocking part 221 is connected with the unlocking rod 232 and can slide along the second guide slope 233;
[0114] When unlocking, the first movable block 231 drives the unlocking rod 232 to move, the first end of the blocking part 221 slides relative to the high end of the second guide slope 233, the second ends of the two blocking parts 221 move away from each other and make the opening 220 open, and the blocking part 221 is disengaged from the first clamping groove 323.
[0115] Further, the unlocking rod 232 is slidably connected with the fixed ring segment 2, and the unlocking rod 232 can slide along the axial direction of the fixed ring segment 2. A limiting hook 234 is arranged at the end of the unlocking rod 232, and the limiting hook 234 can limit the disengagement of the blocking part 221 from the unlocking rod 232.
[0116] When the lock is in the unlocking state, the first end of the blocking part 221 is in the lowest end position of the second guide slope 233 of the unlocking rod 232, and at least part of the blocking part 221 is in the movement path of the first butt joint column 321. When unlocking, the first movable part drives the unlocking rod 232 to slide, so that the blocking part 221 can slide from the low end to the high end of the second guide slope 233, and at this time, the blocking part 221 is upwardly movable, so that the two blocking parts 221 are movable away from each other, and the opening 220 is opened, and at this time, the blocking part 221 can be separated from the first clamping groove 323.
[0117] Further, the sliding cavity is arranged in the fixed ring segment 2, and the sliding cavity is communicated with the air inlet assembly. When the air inlet assembly inputs the air source into the sliding cavity, the first movable part can be driven to slide in the sliding cavity.
[0118] Further, the first reset spring 26 is arranged between the first movable block 231 and the fixed ring segment 2, and the first reset spring 26 can drive the first movable block 231 to reset.
[0119] Optionally, the unlocking rod 232 is rotationally connected to the fixed ring segment 2, and when unlocking, the first movable block 231 drives the unlocking rod 232 to rotate, so that the unlocking rod 232 drives the blocking part 221 to move upwardly. The first movable block 231 and the unlocking rod 232 can be connected through a connecting rod structure or a cam structure, so that the first movable block 231 can drive the unlocking rod 232 to rotate when sliding.
[0120] In some optional embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figures 11-13 The first clamping part 32 comprises a second butt joint column 324, the second butt joint column 324 is provided with a first clamping block 325, the second clamping part 20 comprises a clamping interface 21 and a butt joint 25, the butt joint is arranged in the clamping interface 21, the butt joint 25 is provided with a second clamping block 251, the butt joint 25 is movably connected to the fixed ring segment 2, and the unlocking assembly 23 is linked with the butt joint 25.
[0121] When in the unfolded state, the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are clamped in the same linear direction.
[0122] Further, as shown in Figure 12 The connecting column 36 is connected between the second butt joint column 324 and the limiting column 35, and the second clamping part 20 is arranged in the accommodating opening 24. When locking, the first clamping block 325 is movable to be clamped with the second clamping block 251, so that the fixed ring segment 2 and the movable ring segment 3 are fixedly connected together.
[0123] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 11As shown, the unlocking assembly 23 comprises a second movable block 235 and a screw rod 236, the second movable block 235 is in sliding connection with the fixed ring segment 2, the second movable block 235 is connected with the screw rod 236, the adapter 25 is in rotational connection with the fixed ring segment 2, and the adapter 25 is in threaded cooperation with the screw rod 236;
[0124] When unlocking, the second movable block 235 drives the screw rod 236 to move, and the adapter 25 rotates relative to the screw rod 236, and the first clamping block 325 is disengaged from the second clamping block 251.
[0125] Further, the second movable block 235 is slidably arranged in the sliding cavity and can slide when the air source is input into the sliding cavity, thereby driving the second movable block 235 to slide. The adapter 25 is rotatably connected in the fixed ring segment 2, a threaded hole is arranged in the adapter 25, the screw rod 236 is threadedly connected in the threaded hole, and the screw rod 236 is fixedly connected with the second movable block 235, so that the adapter 25 can rotate under the action of the thread when the second movable block 235 slides, thereby changing the angle and position of the second clamping block 251.
[0126] When the fixed ring segment 2 is connected with the movable ring segment 3, the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are at the same angle, that is, the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are on the same straight line, a guide inclined surface is arranged on the first clamping block 325 or the second clamping block 251, when the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are in contact, the plurality of second clamping blocks 251 can be pushed away from each other under the action of the guide inclined surface, when the first clamping block 325 completely passes through the second clamping block 251, the second clamping block 251 is elastically reset, thereby enabling the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 to be clamped and fixed. When unlocking, the second movable block 235 drives the screw rod 236 to move, the adapter 25 rotates under the threaded driving action of the screw rod 236, so that the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are at different angles, that is, the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are separated, thereby enabling the fixed ring segment 2 and the movable ring segment 3 to be separated.
[0127] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 11 The unlocking assembly 23 further comprises an elastic member 27, the elastic member 27 connects the adapter 25 and the fixed ring segment 2, as shown in Figure 13 The fixed ring segment 2 is provided with a first limiting protrusion 211 and a second limiting protrusion 212;
[0128] When locking, the second clamping block 251 is kept in abutment with the first limiting protrusion 211 under the elastic force of the elastic member 27, and the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are in the same straight line direction;
[0129] When unlocking, the connector 25 rotates until the second locking block 251 abuts against the second limiting protrusion 212, and the first locking block 325 and the second locking block 251 are misaligned and separated.
[0130] Among them, such as Figure 13 As shown, the rotation angle of the connector 25 can be limited by the first limiting protrusion 211 and the second limiting protrusion 212. An elastic element 27, which is a torsion spring, is provided between the connector 25 and the fixed ring segment 2. In the initial state, the connector 25, under the action of the torsion spring, keeps the second locking block 251 abutting against the first limiting protrusion 211, at which point the first locking block 325 and the second locking block 251 are at the same angle. When the connector 25 rotates to its limit position, the second locking block 251 abuts against the second limiting protrusion 212 to limit further rotation of the connector 25.
[0131] Optionally, when locked, the second movable block 235 drives the screw rod 236 to move, and the coupling 25 rotates under the action of the screw rod 236 until the second locking block 251 is misaligned with the first locking block 325. When the first locking block 325 moves to one side of the second locking block 251, the second movable block 235 is reset under the action of the return spring 26 and the coupling 25 is reset under the action of the torsion spring, so that the coupling 25 rotates until the first locking block 325 and the second locking block 251 are at the same angle. At this time, the first locking block 325 and the second locking block 251 are locked and fixed.
[0132] Optionally, an installation port is provided in the fixed ring segment 2, the connector 25 is rotatably disposed in the installation port, and the connector 25 can slide along its own axial direction. A third limiting part is provided at the end of the installation port near the card interface 21, and a fourth limiting part is provided at the end of the installation port away from the card interface 21. The third limiting part and the fourth limiting part can restrict the connector 25 from leaving the installation port.
[0133] When the fixed ring segment 2 is connected to the movable ring segment 3, the second mating post 324 abuts against the mating joint 25 and pushes the mating joint 25 to slide along its axial direction. The mating joint 25 rotates under the action of the screw rod 236. When the mating joint 25 rotates 90°, the first locking block 325 and the second locking block 251 are misaligned. When the mating joint 25 continues to rotate 90°, the first locking block 325 rotates relative to the second locking block 251 and locks onto the inner side of the second locking block 251. At this time, the first locking block 325 and the second locking block 251 are on the same straight line and are engaged. At this time, the mating joint 25 abuts against the fourth limiting part to restrict the further movement of the mating joint 25.
[0134] When the unlocking is performed, the second movable block 235 drives the screw rod 236 to move towards the docking head 25, the docking head 25 rotates under the action of the screw rod 236, so that the first clamping block 325 and the second clamping block 251 are dislocated and separated, and at this time, the docking head 25 can be separated from the second docking column 324.
[0135] Further, the reset spring 26 is arranged between the second movable block 235 and the fixed ring segment 2, and the second movable block 235 can be driven to reset by the reset spring 26.
[0136] Further, the reset member is arranged between the docking head 25 and the mounting port, and the docking head 25 can be driven to reset by the reset member.
[0137] In some embodiments of the present application, a trigger circuit and a vehicle-mounted computer are further included, the trigger circuit is in communication connection with the vehicle-mounted computer, and the vehicle-mounted computer is in communication connection with the first air inlet assembly 34.
[0138] The trigger circuit includes a first conductive member and a second conductive member, the first conductive member is arranged on the extending segment 31, and the second conductive member is arranged on the fixed ring segment 2.
[0139] When the extending segment 31 is connected with the fixed ring segment 2, the first conductive member and the second conductive member are electrically connected, the trigger circuit is in communication connection, and a signal is sent to the vehicle-mounted computer, and the vehicle-mounted computer controls the first air inlet assembly 34 to stop working.
[0140] The first conductive member and the second conductive member are both metal members, when the extending segment 31 moves to be connected with the fixed ring segment 2, the first conductive member and the second conductive member are in contact and conduct electricity, so that the trigger circuit is closed and a signal is sent to the vehicle-mounted computer, the vehicle-mounted computer outputs a control instruction to the first air inlet assembly 34, so that the first air inlet assembly 34 stops air supply, thereby avoiding the extending segment 31 from continuing to extend, and air source waste can be reduced.
[0141] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figure 15 The movable ring segment 3 and / or the fixed ring segment 2 is further provided with a ventilation cavity 371 and a second air inlet assembly 372, the second air inlet assembly 372 is connected with the ventilation cavity 371, the movable ring segment 3 and / or the fixed ring segment 2 is further provided with a ventilation hole 373 which communicates the inside and outside of the ventilation cavity 371, and the ventilation cavity 371 and the movable cavity 33 are not communicated.
[0142] The second air inlet assembly 372 can supply air to the ventilation cavity 371, and the airflow can be outputted to the outside through the ventilation hole 373, so that the airflow can blow to the hands and face of the occupant, and the driving comfort is improved.
[0143] In some embodiments of the present application, as shown in Figures 3-5As shown, the folding assembly 4 includes a slider 40, a first link assembly 41, and a second link assembly 42. The slider 40 is slidably connected to the steering column 1.
[0144] like Figure 3 As shown, the first link assembly 41 includes a first link 411 and a second link 412. The first end of the first link 411 is hinged to the steering column 1, and the second end of the first link 411 is connected to the movable ring segment 3.
[0145] like Figure 3 As shown, the first end of the second link 412 is hinged to the slider 40, and the second end of the second link 412 is hinged to the position between the first end and the second end of the first link 411.
[0146] As shown in Figure 5, the second link assembly 42 includes a third link 421 and a fourth link 422;
[0147] The first end of the third link 421 is hinged to the slider 40, and the second end of the third link 421 is hinged to the fixed ring segment 2.
[0148] The first end of the fourth link 422 is hinged to the steering column 1, and the second end of the fourth link 422 is hinged between the first end and the second end of the third link 421.
[0149] During retraction, slider 40 slides downwards, causing fixed ring segment 2 to rotate upwards and towards steering column 1. Second link 412 causes first link 411 to rotate downwards, allowing movable ring segment 3 to rotate downwards and retract towards steering column 1. Simultaneously, slider 40 causes third link 421 to rotate upwards and towards steering column 1, while fourth link 422 swings downwards. Third link 421 pushes fixed ring segment 2 upwards and towards steering column 1, thus enabling fixed ring segment 2 to rotate upwards and retract towards steering column 1.
[0150] The above are merely the principles and preferred embodiments of this application. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several other modifications can be made based on the principles of this application, and these modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.
Claims
1. A stowable steering wheel, characterized by, The steering column (1), the fixed ring segment (2) and the movable ring segment (3) are connected with the folding assembly (4), and the extension segment (31) is movably arranged in the movable ring segment (3); The steering wheel comprises a storage state and an unfolded state; When in the storage state, the extension segment (31) is received into the interior of the movable ring segment (3), and the fixed ring segment (2) and the movable ring segment (3) can be folded towards the steering column (1) by the folding assembly (4); When in the unfolded state, the fixed ring segment (2) and the movable ring segment (3) are unfolded to be in the same plane by the folding assembly (4), and the extension segment (31) is extended to the outside of the movable ring segment (3) and connected with the fixed ring segment (2); The end of the extension segment (31) is provided with a first clamping piece (32), the end of the fixed ring segment (2) is provided with a second clamping piece (20), and the fixed ring segment (2) is provided with an unlocking assembly (23) which is linked with the second clamping piece (20); When in the unfolded state, the first clamping piece (32) is clamped with the second clamping piece (20); When unlocked, the unlocking assembly (23) drives the second clamping piece (20) to act, and the first clamping piece (32) and the second clamping piece (20) are separated; The first clamping piece (32) comprises a first docking column (321) provided with a first guide inclined surface (322), and a first clamping groove (323) is arranged between the first docking column (321) and the extension segment (31); The second clamping piece (20) comprises a clamping port (21) and an elastic blocking piece (22), the elastic blocking piece (22) is movably arranged in the clamping port (21), the elastic blocking piece (22) has an opening (220), and the unlocking assembly (23) is linked with the elastic blocking piece (22); When locked, the first docking column (321) moves towards the fixed ring segment (2), the first guide inclined surface (322) contacts the elastic blocking piece (22) and pushes the opening (220) to be opened; When the elastic blocking piece (22) moves relatively to the first clamping groove (323), the elastic blocking piece (22) is elastically reset and clamped into the clamping port (21); When unlocked, the unlocking assembly (23) drives the elastic blocking piece (22) to act so that the elastic blocking piece (22) is separated from the first clamping groove (323); The elastic blocking piece (22) comprises blocking parts (221) and elastic parts (222), the blocking parts (221) and the elastic parts (222) are integrally formed metal pieces, the first ends of the two blocking parts (221) are fixedly connected together and form a V-shaped structure, the opening (220) is formed between the two blocking parts (221), the elastic part (222) is in a coiled shape, and the elastic part (222) is connected between the second ends of the blocking parts (221) and the fixed ring segment (2); When locked, the first guide slope (322) is in contact with the blocking part (221) and pushes the second ends of the two blocking parts (221) to move away from each other, so that the opening (220) is opened, and the elastic part (222) is deformed and stores energy; When the blocking part (221) moves relatively to the first clamping groove (323), the elastic part (222) releases energy and drives the blocking part (221) to reset, and the blocking part (221) is clamped into the first clamping groove (323); The unlocking assembly (23) comprises a first movable block (231) and an unlocking rod (232), the first movable block (231) is slidably connected with the fixed ring segment (2), the unlocking rod (232) is connected with the first movable block (231), the unlocking rod (232) is provided with a second guide slope (233), and the first end of the blocking part (221) is connected with the unlocking rod (232) and can slide along the second guide slope (233); When unlocked, the first movable block (231) drives the unlocking rod (232) to move, the first end of the blocking part (221) slides relatively along the high end of the second guide slope (233), the second ends of the two blocking parts (221) move away from each other and open the opening (220), and the blocking part (221) is separated from the first clamping groove (323).
2. The stowable steering wheel of claim 1, wherein, The movable ring segment (3) is provided with a movable cavity (33), the movable cavity (33) comprises an air inlet (331) and an outlet (332), the extension segment (31) is slidably arranged in the movable cavity (33) and can extend out of the movable cavity (33) from the outlet (332), the air inlet (331) is connected with a first air inlet assembly (34), and the first air inlet assembly (34) ventilates the air inlet (331) to push the extension segment (31) to slide towards the outlet (332).
3. The stowable steering wheel of claim 2, wherein, Further comprising a trigger circuit and a vehicle-mounted computer, the trigger circuit is in communication connection with the vehicle-mounted computer, and the vehicle-mounted computer is in communication connection with the first air inlet assembly (34); The trigger circuit comprises a first conductive part and a second conductive part, the first conductive part is arranged on the extension segment (31), and the second conductive part is arranged on the fixed ring segment (2); The trigger circuit comprises a first conductive part and a second conductive part, the first conductive part is arranged on the extension segment (31), and the second conductive part is arranged on the fixed ring segment (2); When the extension section (31) is connected with the fixed ring section (2), the first conductive member is electrically connected with the second conductive member, the trigger circuit is connected and sends a signal to the vehicle computer, and the vehicle computer controls the first air inlet assembly (34) to stop working.
4. The stowable steering wheel of claim 2, wherein, The movable ring section (3) and / or the fixed ring section (2) is further provided with a ventilation cavity (371) and a second air inlet assembly (372), the second air inlet assembly (372) is connected with the ventilation cavity (371), the movable ring section (3) and / or the fixed ring section (2) is further provided with a ventilation hole (373) which communicates the inside and outside of the ventilation cavity (371), and the ventilation cavity (371) and the movable cavity (33) are not communicated with each other.
5. The stowable steering wheel of claim 1, wherein, The folding assembly (4) comprises a sliding block (40), a first connecting rod assembly (41) and a second connecting rod assembly (42), the sliding block (40) is slidingly connected with the steering column (1); The first connecting rod assembly (41) comprises a first connecting rod (411) and a second connecting rod (412), the first end of the first connecting rod (411) is hingedly connected with the steering column (1), and the second end of the first connecting rod (411) is connected with the movable ring section (3); The first end of the second connecting rod (412) is hingedly connected with the sliding block (40), and the second end of the second connecting rod (412) is hingedly connected between the first end and the second end of the first connecting rod (411); The second connecting rod assembly (42) comprises a third connecting rod (421) and a fourth connecting rod (422); The first end of the third connecting rod (421) is hingedly connected with the sliding block (40), and the second end of the third connecting rod (421) is hingedly connected with the fixed ring section (2); The first end of the fourth connecting rod (422) is hingedly connected with the steering column (1), and the second end of the fourth connecting rod (422) is hingedly connected between the first end and the second end of the third connecting rod (421).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Automatic contracting and fixing device of steering wheel under automatic driving
CN110696905A
Automobile steering wheel and automobile
CN114789748A