Steering device for actively controlling at least semi-autonomous driving motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering device (1) for actively controlling at least semi-autonomously driven motor vehicles (2), comprising at least: a steering body (3) with a rotation axis (4), comprising a steering wheel handle (5) and a steering wheel pot (6), which are rotatably connected to each other about the rotation axis (4); an airbag module (7), which is arranged within the steering wheel pot (6), at least a part of the steering body (3) having an active position (8) and a stowed position (9) and being movable between these positions (8, 9), in the active position the steering body being rotatable about the rotation axis for actively controlling the motor vehicle, wherein the airbag module remains oriented in the steering wheel pot in a functionally identical manner, independent of the position of the steering body. Thereby, an increase in driver seating and mobility freedom during (fully) autonomous operation can be achieved, while safety is maintained in the event of a collision.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a steering device for actively controlling a motor vehicle that is at least semi-autonomous in operation. The invention also relates to such a motor vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Autonomous driving has become feasible due to increased computing power and faster mobile data transmission speeds in motor vehicles. Driving is generally categorized into manual, semi-autonomous, and (fully)autonomous operation. In manual or semi-autonomous operation (e.g., using assistance systems), the driver must remain seated in the cockpit and intervene, actively controlling the vehicle as needed. Depending on vehicle regulations and / or equipment, manual, semi-autonomous, and (fully)autonomous operation can be implemented in the same vehicle. For example, a journey on a highway can be (fully)autonomous, but a city journey still requires the driver to actively control the vehicle.

[0003] In actively controlled motor vehicles, the steering mechanism's steering element needs to protrude into the cockpit towards the driver to receive steering commands from the driver and actively control the vehicle. Conversely, in (fully) autonomous operation, a cockpit area with the greatest possible freedom is advantageous to ensure the driver's comfort in terms of seating and movement freedom. Therefore, it is essential to ensure increased spatial comfort for the driver within the motor vehicle.

[0004] However, driver safety must be ensured simultaneously, for example, through measures such as the installation of airbags. The steering mechanism's steering body is ineffective in (fully) autonomous, manual, or semi-autonomous operation of the vehicle, regardless of whether it is positioned for active control (e.g., in urban traffic or in autonomous driving situations where the steering body is displaced). Furthermore, the steering body must be easily and reliably movable between the active control position and the autonomous driving position, allowing the driver of the motor vehicle to quickly and actively intervene in the current driving situation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the problem solved by the present invention is to at least partially overcome the disadvantages known in the prior art. Features of the invention and its advantageous construction are disclosed below. These features can be combined in any technically meaningful manner, wherein explanations from the following description and features from the drawings (including supplementary constructions of the invention) can also be used for this purpose.

[0006] The present invention relates to a steering device for actively controlling a motor vehicle in at least a semi-autonomous driving mode, comprising at least the following components:

[0007] - A steering body having a rotation axis, wherein the steering body includes a steering wheel shank and a steering wheel canister, wherein the steering wheel shank and the steering wheel canister are rotatably connected to each other about the rotation axis; and

[0008] - Airbag module, the airbag module being disposed within the steering wheel reservoir.

[0009] At least a portion of the steering body has an active position and a retracted position, and is movable between these positions.

[0010] In the active position, the steering body can rotate around the rotation axis to actively control the associated motor vehicle.

[0011] The main feature of the steering device is that the airbag module is held oriented in the steering wheel canister in a functionally identical manner, regardless of the position of the steering body.

[0012] When using axial direction, radial direction, orbital direction, and corresponding terms, refer below to the above-described rotating shaft unless otherwise explicitly stated. The ordinal numbers used in the descriptions above and below are for clarity of distinction only and do not reflect any order or rank of the specified components unless otherwise explicitly stated. An ordinal number greater than one does not necessarily require the existence of another such component.

[0013] The steering mechanism described herein is arranged such that control of at least semi-autonomous motor vehicles can be manually performed, allowing the driver's steering movements to be transmitted to the vehicle. It should be noted that the term "active" is used to indicate manual control, which is not performed solely by the onboard computer and / or autonomous program, but by the driver of the motor vehicle. However, driver assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist or power steering are not excluded.

[0014] To transmit steering motion, the steering system includes a steering body rotatably arranged about a rotation axis. The steering body further includes a steering wheel shank and a steering wheel reservoir. The steering wheel shank and the steering wheel reservoir are connected to each other such that they receive steering motion from the driver and rotate accordingly about the rotation axis.

[0015] To protect the driver in a collision, the airbag module is also housed within the steering wheel reservoir. Preferably, the airbag module used is one known to those skilled in the art in industrial practice, adapted to inflate the airbag with gas within milliseconds in the event of a collision, thereby reducing the impact force.

[0016] To enable the steering body to move between manual or semi-autonomous operation with active driver control and (fully) autonomous operation (i.e., driving without driver intervention), it is proposed that at least a portion of the steering body be movable between two positions. In the active position, the steering body is arranged such that the vehicle can be actively (preferably ergonomically) controlled by the driver via the steering mechanism. In the retracted position, the steering body is arranged in such a way that a cockpit area with the greatest possible freedom is created. When the steering body is arranged in the retracted position, high driver comfort is ensured in the form of degrees of freedom of seating and movement.

[0017] The switching from one operating mode to another, i.e., between (fully) autonomous operation and manual or semi-autonomous operation, can be performed under the driver's active and / or command from the vehicle. For example, regulations in some areas (e.g., some urban areas) require the steering body to be positioned in the active position for vehicle operation. If a vehicle is traveling on a (fully) autonomous highway and will leave the highway within the next few minutes, with the steering body in the retracted position, the vehicle signals, for example, to disengage (fully) autonomous driving in a timely manner, requiring the driver to actively control the vehicle as it leaves the highway. Thus, the driver can move the steering body from the retracted position to the active position before the vehicle leaves the highway and enters urban traffic. Alternatively, the steering body can be moved automatically from the vehicle to the active position, or the vehicle can be deactivated to prevent the vehicle from being driven without or illegally controlled.

[0018] In the active position, the steering body is arranged such that it is rotatably supported about a rotation axis. Preferably, the steering mechanism is configured such that the vehicle can only be manually controlled in the active position. If the steering body is arranged outside the active position, the steering body is not configured to actively control the vehicle, thereby eliminating undesirable control of the vehicle.

[0019] Here, it is now proposed that the airbag module has a functionally identical orientation regardless of the position of the steering body, meaning that the airbag module is correctly aligned in a collision event to reduce the impact on the driver. In this case, the airbag module is held in the steering wheel canister so that the airbag can inflate correctly in a collision event. In this context, correct means that the airbag meets the legal requirements for driver safety, regardless of the position of the steering body or whether the motor vehicle is operated manually, semi-autonomously, or (fully)autonomously. Therefore, the airbag module can be used with the same functionality at any time during motor vehicle operation. Preferably, the airbag module is correspondingly oriented towards the same area of ​​the driver's body, regardless of the position of the steering body. For example, the steering wheel canister includes a rigidly arranged portion (canister portion) in which the airbag module is disposed. Preferably, the rigid canister portion is not pivotable relative to the rest of the cockpit, or pivots at a small angle (e.g., a maximum of 5° in both directions). However, in one embodiment, the rigid canister portion of the steering wheel canister is translatably movable along an axis of rotation.

[0020] It should be noted that the steering wheel canister is mechanically stable, ensuring that, in the event of a collision, the steering wheel canister with the airbag module remains correctly oriented toward the driver. For example, the steering wheel canister may be attached to a mechanically formed steering column or (in steering systems without a steering column, such as steer-by-wire) to a corresponding reinforcement structure, for example, in the dashboard of a motor vehicle.

[0021] The device according to the invention provides the advantage of creating a comfortable space in the cockpit in the retracted position, and allowing for manual and active control of the vehicle in the active position. Furthermore, in both positions, a high level of driver safety is ensured by functionally and correctly aligned airbag modules.

[0022] A pivot axis is not necessarily a physically formed steering axis. However, in one embodiment, the pivot axis is a physically constructed steering axis used to mechanically transmit steering commands for controlling the vehicle. In some embodiments, the transmission of steering commands occurs in a non-mechanical manner, or not specifically mechanically, such as by means of electrical signals, making a physically formed steering axis unnecessary.

[0023] In one embodiment, the steering shaft is a conventionally arranged steering column with steering gears, wherein the direction of travel of the vehicle can be achieved by means of the steering gears. The steering gears convert the steering motion of the steering body or steering wheel handle into sliding motion on the tie rods of the vehicle, causing the wheels to rotate to a steering orientation different from the current main direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0024] In an alternative embodiment, the steering shaft is equipped with a servo motor, which assists the driver in control, wherein the force applied by the driver to control can be more strongly transmitted to the wheels via a hydraulic system and / or an electric motor. In this embodiment, the transmission of steering motion is not performed directly by means of a power-receiving steering column or steering gear, but by means of torque in the same direction as the steering motion, so that a smaller force must be applied to the steering body or steering wheel shank to change the steering orientation.

[0025] In another alternative embodiment, the steering shaft is configured as a so-called steer-by-wire system, wherein the steering shaft is configured as a theoretical axis of rotation. For example, the steering mechanism here includes a so-called steering force simulator that senses steering impacts on the steering body or steering wheel shank. Furthermore, variable steering force and mechanical limiting stops are preferably simulated by means of an integrated, electrically operable brake. Steering movements are generated electronically and / or hydraulically (e.g., via a proportional valve actuated by an electronic control unit).

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering system, it is further proposed that the steering wheel shank, preferably configured as a steering wheel rim, be releasably connected to the steering wheel reservoir.

[0027] In the active position, the steering wheel shank is fixed to the steering wheel reservoir for torque transmission, and...

[0028] In the stowed position, the steering wheel handle is detached from the steering wheel reservoir.

[0029] The steering wheel shank is releasably secured to the steering wheel reservoir. That is, it can be reversibly attached to the steering wheel reservoir, or secured to the steering wheel reservoir and then released from it. Here, "releasable" also means that the driver can quickly release the connection without tools (preferably during (fully) autonomous operation, e.g., by pushing a button).

[0030] Preferably, the steering wheel shank is a steering wheel rim (particularly preferably having a circumferential structure). The steering wheel rim is preferably spaced apart from the steering wheel reservoir so that it can be gripped by the driver.

[0031] For example, the driver's steering motion can be transmitted to the axis of rotation via the steering wheel shank, and thus to the wheels of the motor vehicle. The steering wheel rim is a circumferential component arranged around the axis of rotation. For example, the steering wheel rim is supported on the steering wheel reservoir by means of a plurality of spokes arranged to extend radially inward from the steering wheel rim to the steering wheel reservoir. Preferably, the steering wheel rim is also spaced from the steering wheel reservoir in the axial direction, particularly preferably in the driver's direction, via the spokes.

[0032] When actively controlling a motor vehicle, such a steering wheel rim provides particularly safe operation of the steering system because the steering wheel rim can be gripped by the driver. Furthermore, the axial spacing between the steering wheel rim and the steering wheel reservoir allows for particularly ergonomic operation of the steering system by the driver.

[0033] If the steering body is in the active position, the steering wheel shank is fixed to the steering wheel reservoir and configured for torque transmission.

[0034] Conversely, in the retracted position, according to the embodiments presented herein, the steering wheel shank can be reversibly detached from the remaining steering body. Preferably, the steering wheel shank can be completely detached and removed from the steering wheel reservoir, for example, in a separate storage space in the dashboard, or can be attached to a mounting bracket provided for this purpose.

[0035] In an alternative embodiment, disassembly is performed using a folding mechanism, allowing the steering wheel shank to be hinged away from the steering wheel reservoir. For example, a hinge is arranged between the steering wheel shank and the steering wheel reservoir.

[0036] The advantage of this embodiment is that it creates a particularly large amount of space in the cockpit, and therefore provides the driver with a particularly comfortable space during (fully) autonomous operation.

[0037] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering system, it is also proposed that the steering wheel shank be releasably connected to the steering wheel canister via a latch.

[0038] In one embodiment, the latch is arranged such that the steering wheel shank has a plurality of pins that snap into complementary openings in the steering wheel canister. For example, in this embodiment, a spring mechanism is arranged on the steering wheel canister. For example, by means of the spring mechanism, a snap hook can be inserted into a recess in at least one of the pins on the steering wheel shank to create a reliable locking connection. For example, such a reliable locking connection is releasable via a switch on the steering wheel canister and / or the steering wheel shank, allowing the steering wheel shank to be removed from the steering wheel canister.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, the steering wheel shank is connected to the steering wheel reservoir by means of an electrically or magnetically driven latching mechanism, by means of bayonet fasteners, by means of screw connections, by means of snap-fit ​​hinges, etc.

[0040] The advantage of using such a latching feature to connect the steering wheel shank to the steering wheel reservoir is that it is particularly easy and quick for the driver to remove, while still ensuring a secure hold and thus a high level of safety.

[0041] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering mechanism, it is also proposed that the steering wheel canister includes a first canister portion and a second canister portion movable relative to each other.

[0042] The airbag module is received in the second tank section, and

[0043] At least in the active position, the first portion of the steering wheel canister is connected to the steering wheel shank and the second portion of the steering wheel canister via torque transmission.

[0044] The first can portion is preferably pivotally mounted between the active position and the retracted position around a pivot axis.

[0045] According to this embodiment, it is now proposed that the steering wheel canister be arranged in two parts. Thus, the steering wheel canister includes a first canister portion and a second canister portion, wherein these are supported such that they are movable relative to each other. For example, in addition to receiving the airbag module, the steering wheel canister is configured to receive electronic components, preferably for operating and controlling the motor vehicle.

[0046] To ensure that the second canister portion has the same functional orientation, it is now proposed that the airbag module be received within the second canister portion, and that the second canister portion be fixed to the rotation axis. Because the second canister portion is fixed to the rotation axis, the airbag module remains in the same alignment and stationary position regardless of the movement of the first canister portion. This ensures the correct operation of the airbag module.

[0047] In the active position, the first canister portion is torque-transmitted to the steering wheel shank and the second canister portion, enabling the transmission of steering torque from the steering wheel shank to both canister portions of the steering wheel canister. In one example of this embodiment, the steering wheel shank is non-releasable connected to the steering wheel canister and the first canister portion. In this case, "non-releasable" means that the user cannot easily and through a few simple actions (e.g., during driving when switching from active control mode to autonomous control mode). However, release of the connection as known from industrial practice (e.g., using a tool) is not excluded.

[0048] Preferably, the first canister portion is pivotally supported about a pivot axis between an active position and a retracted position, wherein the connection between the first canister portion and the second canister portion is released outside the active position via torque transmission, such that the second canister portion ensures functionally identical operation of the received airbag module. The pivot axis is preferably arranged perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and in one embodiment, it is arranged within a technical component by means of which the pivoting of the first canister portion can be performed. For example, the pivot axis is arranged within a bearing, and the bearing is arranged such that the pivot axis is transverse to the axis of rotation and connected to the first canister portion by means of a lever arm, allowing it to pivot about the pivot axis.

[0049] In an alternative embodiment, the pivot axis is a theoretical axis about which the first canister portion is pivotally supported between the active and retracted positions. For example, the first canister portion may pivot along a curved track to the retracted position such that the pivot axis represents the theoretical center point of the curved track, and may optionally be arranged horizontally (from the driver's perspective) further away from the steering wheel canister than the pivot axis in the above embodiments.

[0050] This embodiment with two tank sections offers the advantage of creating space for the driver in the cockpit during (fully) autonomous operation, even without disassembling the steering wheel thimble. Furthermore, there is no need to disassemble or receive a disassembled steering wheel thimble.

[0051] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering system, it is also proposed that the steering wheel reservoir includes a control element through which the driver operates vehicle functions.

[0052] Therefore, at least in the active position of the steering body, and preferably also in the retracted position, the driver can operate vehicle functions. Such vehicle functions include infotainment functions, auxiliary systems such as lane keeping assist and / or speed regulators, gear shifting, or operating mode selection. Furthermore, for example, the steering wheel throttle portion may be released by means of a control element, or the first canister portion may be released and / or pivotable away from the second canister portion. In one embodiment, in the retracted position, when the vehicle is operated (fully) autonomously by means of a control element, vehicle functions are only operable for infotainment systems, such as the volume or play / pause button of the sound system, thus preventing accidental adjustment of vehicle functions during (fully) autonomous operation.

[0053] One embodiment with such a control element offers the advantage of particularly convenient operation of vehicle functions in (fully) autonomous operation as well as in manual or semi-autonomous operation.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering system, it is also proposed that an axial offset is formed between the steering wheel canister and the steering wheel shank.

[0055] According to such an embodiment, the steering wheel shank is connected to the steering wheel reservoir at least in the active position, such that it is axially spaced from the reservoir, i.e., axially offset from it. The offset represents the axial distance between the reservoir and the shank. Therefore, the steering wheel shank (preferably constructed as a steering wheel rim) can be gripped by the driver and can be ergonomically and securely held.

[0056] Axial offset can be adjusted, for example, by a latch according to the embodiments described above. Preferably, the axial offset can be adjusted by the latch such that the axial distance of the steering wheel shank is shortened or increased in the driver's direction. In one embodiment, the pin has multiple notches for a spring mechanism, so the offset is therefore preferably ergonomically adjustable.

[0057] In an alternative embodiment, the steering wheel canister has multiple latches for bayonet seals, such that the offset between the steering wheel shank and the steering wheel canister can be adjusted by the axial distance of the latches.

[0058] According to another aspect, a motor vehicle is proposed that includes at least the following components:

[0059] -At least one drive unit;

[0060] -At least one steerable wheel; and

[0061] - At least one cockpit, said at least one cockpit having an instrument panel and a steering device according to the above embodiment.

[0062] The steering device is configured to control the motor vehicle, receive steering commands from the driver, and convert the steering commands into torque transmissions to at least one of the steerable vehicle wheels for steering orientation of the relevant steerable vehicle wheel corresponding to the steering command.

[0063] The motor vehicle described herein is equipped with a drive motor and at least one steerable wheel, enabling it to move autonomously and control itself if necessary. Preferably, such a motor vehicle is a passenger vehicle, and particularly preferably a sports vehicle. An instrument panel is arranged within the motor vehicle, and a steering device according to one embodiment described above is arranged within the instrument panel. For example, an infotainment system with multiple screens is arranged within the instrument panel.

[0064] The steering mechanism is configured to control a motor vehicle such that a driver's steering command can be transmitted to the wheels, and thus a new steering orientation of the wheels can be achieved. In one embodiment, the steering command can be transmitted to the wheels via a steering column with a conventional arrangement of steering gears, wherein the direction of travel of the motor vehicle can be influenced by the steering gears. The steering gears translate the steering body or the driver's steering command into a sliding motion on the steering levers of the motor vehicle, causing the wheels to rotate to a steering orientation different from the current primary direction of travel of the motor vehicle.

[0065] In an alternative embodiment, steering commands may be transmitted to the wheels via a servo motor, which assists the driver by more forcefully transmitting the control forces generated by the driver to the wheels through a hydraulic system and / or an electric motor. In this embodiment, the transmission of steering commands is not performed directly by means of a power-receiving steering column or steering gear, but rather by means of torque consistent with the steering command, allowing a smaller force to be applied to the steering body or steering wheel shank to change the steering orientation.

[0066] In another alternative embodiment, steering commands can be transmitted to the wheels via a so-called steer-by-wire system, with the steering shaft configured as a theoretical axis of rotation. For example, the steering mechanism includes a so-called steering force simulator, which senses steering impacts on the steering body or steering wheel shank and simulates variable steering forces and mechanically limiting angles via an integrated electro-actuated brake. Steering commands are generated electronically and / or hydraulically (e.g., via a proportional valve actuated by an electronic control unit) and transmitted to the wheels.

[0067] In an advantageous embodiment of the motor vehicle, it is further proposed that the steering wheel reservoir is retracted into a retainer in the vehicle's dashboard.

[0068] The steering wheel canister is preferably movable translatably along the axis of rotation.

[0069] Here, it is now proposed that the dashboard includes a container configured to store a steering wheel canister. In one embodiment, retraction of the steering wheel canister is feasible only when the steering wheel shank is absent and in the retracted position of the steering body. For example, the container is designed such that only the steering wheel canister without the steering wheel shank can be retracted into the container.

[0070] In an alternative embodiment, the container is designed so that the steering wheel canister is retracted when the steering wheel shank is in the retracted position within the container. For example, in this embodiment, the container has recesses for both the steering wheel canister and the steering wheel shank, allowing the steering wheel canister to be retracted within the container when it is attached to the steering wheel shank.

[0071] In another alternative embodiment, the steering wheel canister with the steering wheel stalk portion can be retracted into a container in the dashboard in the active position. For example, when the vehicle is in a semi-autonomous operation mode and the driver leaves the steering body in the active position, there is the possibility of retracting the steering wheel canister, with or without the steering wheel stalk portion, into the container in the dashboard. Therefore, the driver can achieve increased spatial comfort within the vehicle while the steering body is in the active position. Simultaneously, the driver can still choose to intervene in the driving process in the active position.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the steering wheel canister is translatably retracted into a container in the instrument panel along the axis of rotation. In this preferred embodiment, the movement of the steering body between the active and retracted positions occurs translatively along the axis of rotation, wherein, in (fully) autonomous operation of the vehicle, the driver can move the steering wheel canister into the container in the instrument panel with or without the steering wheel shank. In semi-autonomous operation, the retracted position of the steering wheel canister is blocked, thus preventing unwanted pivoting of the steering wheel canister to the retracted position, for example, during city travel.

[0073] It should be noted that in the above embodiments, when the steering wheel canister is received in the container with or without the steering wheel shank, the control element, which may be part of the steering wheel canister, is preferably at least partially further operable. Furthermore, it should be noted that the translational movement of the steering wheel canister can be performed along the axis of rotation via a carriage mechanism or a telescopic mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, the translational movement of the steering wheel canister can be performed along the axis of rotation by means of a linkage mechanism and multiple rotary bearings, wherein the airbag module can operate in a functionally identical manner, taking into account minimal angular variation.

[0074] In an advantageous embodiment of the motor vehicle, it is also proposed that the retractable portion of the steering body can be fixed in a retracted position, preferably fixed to the dashboard of the motor vehicle.

[0075] The fixing element described herein prevents the steering body from undesirably pivoting from the retracted position. For example, the fixing element is constructed as a snap-fit ​​mechanism or electromagnetic lock, which releases the steering body from the fixing element only when a trigger function is actuated. For this purpose, the steering wheel reservoir and / or steering wheel shank preferably include corresponding mating parts on the side opposite to the driver, so that the steering body can be releasably fixed to the vehicle's dashboard. Particularly preferably, in the active position, the fixing mechanism is not conspicuously positioned outside the driver's direct line of sight.

[0076] In general, the present invention discloses the technical solutions described in 1 and 7 below, and the technical solutions described in 2-6 and 8-9 below are preferred technical solutions:

[0077] 1. A steering device (1) for actively controlling a motor vehicle (2) that is at least semi-autonomous, comprising at least the following components:

[0078] - A steering body (3) having a rotating shaft (4), wherein the steering body (3) includes a steering wheel shank (5) and a steering wheel canister (6), wherein the steering wheel shank (5) and the steering wheel canister (6) are rotatably connected to each other about the rotating shaft (4); and

[0079] - Airbag module (7), the airbag module being arranged inside the steering wheel reservoir (6),

[0080] At least a portion of the steering body (3) has an active position (8) and a retracted position (9), and is capable of moving between these positions (8, 9).

[0081] In the active position (8), the steering body (3) is capable of rotating around the rotation axis (4) to actively control the associated motor vehicle (2).

[0082] Its features are,

[0083] The airbag module (7) is held in orientation in the steering wheel canister (6) in the same functional manner, regardless of the position (8, 9) of the steering body (3).

[0084] 2. The steering device (1) according to 1 above, wherein

[0085] Preferably, the steering wheel shank (5), configured as a steering wheel rim (10), is releasably connected to the steering wheel reservoir (6).

[0086] In the active position (8), the steering wheel shank (5) is fixed to the steering wheel reservoir (6) for torque transmission, and,

[0087] In the retracted position (9), the steering wheel handle (5) is detached from the steering wheel canister (6).

[0088] 3. The steering device (1) according to 2 above, wherein

[0089] The steering wheel handle (5) is releasably connected to the steering wheel reservoir (6) by means of a latch (11).

[0090] 4. The steering device (1) according to any one of the preceding 1-3, wherein

[0091] The steering wheel canister (6) includes a first canister portion (12) and a second canister portion (13) that are movable relative to each other.

[0092] The airbag module (7) is received in the second tank portion (13), and

[0093] At least in the active position (8), the first can portion (12) of the steering wheel canister (6) is connected to the steering wheel shank (5) and the second can portion (13) of the steering wheel canister (6) in a torque transmission manner.

[0094] The first tank portion (12) is preferably pivotally mounted between the active position (8) and the retracted position (9) about a pivot axis (14).

[0095] 5. The steering device (1) according to any one of the preceding 1-4, wherein

[0096] The steering wheel reservoir (6) includes a control element (15) by which the driver can operate vehicle functions.

[0097] 6. The steering device (1) according to any one of the preceding 1-5, wherein

[0098] An axial offset (16) is formed between the steering wheel canister (6) and the steering wheel handle (5).

[0099] 7. A motor vehicle (2) comprising at least the following components:

[0100] -At least one drive unit (17);

[0101] - At least one steerable vehicle wheel (18); and

[0102] - At least one cockpit (19), said at least one cockpit having an instrument panel (20) and a steering device (1) according to any one of the preceding 1 to 6,

[0103] The steering device (1) is configured to control the motor vehicle (2), receive steering commands from the driver, and convert the steering commands into torque transmission to at least one of the steerable vehicle wheels (18) for steering orientation of the relevant steerable vehicle wheel (18) corresponding to the steering command.

[0104] 8. The motor vehicle (2) according to 7 above, wherein

[0105] The steering wheel canister (6) can be stowed in a container (21) in the dashboard (20) of the motor vehicle (2).

[0106] The steering wheel canister (6) is preferably capable of translational movement along the axis of rotation (4).

[0107] 9. The motor vehicle (2) according to 7 or 8 above, wherein

[0108] The retractable portion of the steering body (3) can be fixed in the retracted position (9), preferably fixed to the dashboard (20) of the motor vehicle (2). Attached Figure Description

[0109] The invention described above will now be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred constructions in light of relevant technical background. The invention is not limited in any way to purely schematic figures, and it should be noted that the drawings are not actual dimensions and are not intended to be limited to specific proportions. Here:

[0110] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the steering mechanism is shown.

[0111] Figure 2 : Shows according to Figure 1 Front view of the steering body;

[0112] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of the steering device in an example of an alternative embodiment is shown; and

[0113] Figure 4This shows a motor vehicle with a dashboard. Detailed Implementation

[0114] exist Figure 1 In the schematic cross-sectional view, a steering device 1 is shown. The steering device 1 includes a steering body 3 and a rotation shaft 4, wherein the rotation shaft 4 is arranged coaxially with the steering body 3. The steering body 3 includes a steering wheel canister 6 and a steering wheel shank 5, wherein in this embodiment, the steering wheel shank 5 is configured as a steering wheel rim 10 and is releasably connected to the steering wheel canister 6 via a latch 11. In this embodiment, the latch 11 is configured as a plurality of pins received by the steering wheel canister 6. An axial offset 16 between the steering wheel canister 6 and the steering wheel shank 5 is adjustable by means of the latch 11, for example by means of a plurality of notches within the pins. By means of the offset 16, the ergonomic position of the steering wheel shank 5 is preferably adjustable for the driver.

[0115] An airbag module 7 is disposed within the steering wheel canister 6, wherein the airbag module 7 is oriented in its direction of action toward the driver of the vehicle 2. According to the illustration (drawn in solid lines), the steering body 3 is correctly positioned in the active position 8, such that the vehicle 2 can be actively controlled by the driver in semi-autonomous or manual operation. If the vehicle 2 is in (fully) autonomous operation, the steering body 3 can be moved to the retracted position 9 (shown here in dashed lines). A container 21 is provided to store the steering body 3 within the dashboard 20. In this embodiment, the container receives the steering wheel canister 6. In this embodiment, the steering wheel shank 5 is detachably connected to the steering wheel canister 6, such that the steering wheel shank 5 is detached from the steering wheel canister 6 in the retracted position 9. The steering wheel canister 6 can be moved translationally from the active position 8 into the container 21 in the retracted position 9 via a telescopic mechanism along the axis of rotation 4. In an alternative embodiment, the steering wheel canister 6 can be moved translationally into the container 21 along the axis of rotation 4 by means of a carriage.

[0116] Due to the mobility of the steering body 3 between the active position 8 and the retracted position 9, the increased seating and comfort requirements of the driver in the cockpit 19 can be achieved during (fully) autonomous operation of the motor vehicle 2. Purely optional, as shown, a head-up display 22 and a speedometer display 23 are arranged in the instrument panel 20, through which vehicle information, such as the speed of the motor vehicle 2, infotainment system displays, or navigation displays, can be graphically presented to the driver during manual, semi-autonomous, or (fully) autonomous operation. Preferably, in (fully) autonomous operation, the tachometer display 23 is turned off and only the head-up display 22 is used. Conversely, for example, in manual or semi-autonomous operation, only the tachometer display 23 can be used and the head-up display 22 can be turned off.

[0117] exist Figure 2In the front view, it is shown according to Figure 1 The steering body 3 is arranged rotatably coaxially with the rotation axis 4, and includes a steering wheel reservoir 6 and a steering wheel shank 5. The steering wheel shank 5 is adapted to transmit torque of the driver's steering motion 24 of the motor vehicle 2. In this embodiment, the steering wheel shank 5 is configured as a steering wheel rim 10, which is configured to be gripped by the driver's hand. The steering wheel shank 5 is releasably secured to the steering wheel reservoir 6 by means of a locking mechanism 11, which in this embodiment is releasably secured to the steering wheel reservoir 6 by means of four pins. Due to the latch 11, the steering wheel shank 5 is securely fastened in a torque-transmitting manner and is also quickly and easily releasably attached to the steering wheel reservoir 6.

[0118] The steering wheel reservoir 6 also includes a control element 15 configured to operate vehicle functions. For example, the speed of the speed assist can be adjusted and / or the infotainment system can be activated by means of the control element 15. Furthermore, the steering signals of the motor vehicle 2 can be controlled by means of the control element 15. In this embodiment, the current gear position of the transmission 25 is also shown displayed on the control element 15.

[0119] exist Figure 3 In the schematic cross-sectional view, a steering device 1 in an example of an alternative embodiment is shown. The steering device 1 includes a rotation axis 4, around which a steering body 3 is arranged coaxially. The steering body 3 also includes a steering wheel shank 5 and a steering wheel canister 6, wherein the steering wheel canister 6 includes a first canister portion 12 and a second canister portion 13, and the second canister portion 13 is torque-transmittedly connected to the first canister portion 12 and the steering wheel shank 5 in an active position 8. In the active position 8, as illustrated (drawn in solid lines), the canister portions 12 and 13 are connected to each other such that torque transmission or steering motion 24 can be achieved by means of the steering wheel shank 5 for controlling the motor vehicle 2. Steering motion 24 can be transmitted from the steering wheel shank 5 via the steering wheel canister 6 to the rotation axis 4 in the active position 8, the rotation axis being a physically constructed steering column, as shown. An airbag module 7 is arranged within the second canister portion 13, wherein the airbag module 7 is configured to reduce the impact on the driver in a collision event. At least a portion of the steering body 3 is pivotable along a pivot axis 14 between the active position 8 and the retracted position 9. Pivoting to the retracted position 9 is achieved by means of a purely optional curved track 26, where pivot axis 14 therefore represents the theoretical pivot axis 14, which is the theoretical center point of the expected bus circuit.

[0120] Here, the retracted position 9 of the steering body 3 is shown by a dashed line. In this example embodiment, the second canister portion 13 is detached from the first canister portion 12 and positioned such that the second canister portion 13 remains in the same position and orientation as the vehicle's active operation (where the first canister portion 12 is in the active position 8), so that the airbag module 7 can also operate in the retracted position 9 of the steering body 3. A fixing element 27 is arranged on the instrument panel 20, configured to fix the steering wheel shank portion 5 to its corresponding mating member and to fix the steering wheel shank portion 5 in the retracted position 9. For example, the fixing element 27 is configured as a clamping mechanism and / or a magnet that releases the steering wheel shank portion 5 from its fixed position only by actuating the trigger of the fixing element 27. Furthermore, a purely optional head-up display 22 and a purely optional tachometer display 23 are arranged in the instrument panel 20. The tachometer display 23, which is in the retracted position 9, is thus blocked by the first canister portion 12 and the steering wheel handle portion 5, so that in this case (fully autonomous operation of the motor vehicle 2), only the head-up display 22 is applicable.

[0121] Figure 4 An autonomous motor vehicle 2 is shown, which can optionally operate in (fully) automatic mode or in manual or semi-autonomous mode.

[0122] The motor vehicle 2 includes a drive motor 17 configured as a traction motor and a transmission 25 in this embodiment. The drive motor 17 is configured to generate torque, and the transmission 25 is configured to transmit torque to a plurality of wheels 18, such that torque can be transmitted to a base and the motor vehicle 2 can thus be propelled. The front axle, having two wheels 18, is configured as a steerable axle for controlling the vehicle.

[0123] A cockpit 19 is arranged within the motor vehicle 2, wherein the cockpit 19 is configured for at least one driver of the motor vehicle 2. The cockpit 19 includes an instrument panel 20, which in turn includes a container 21, wherein at least a portion of the steering body 3 of the steering device 1 is retracted in a retracted position 9 when the motor vehicle 2 is operated (fully) autonomously. The steering device 1 also includes a rotation shaft 4, wherein the steering body 3 is preferably arranged coaxially about the rotation shaft 4 in an active position 8 for active control of the motor vehicle 2 in manual or semi-autonomous operation. Furthermore, the steering body 3 includes a steering wheel shank 5 configured here as a steering wheel rim 10 and a steering wheel canister 6, wherein the steering wheel canister 6 is adapted to transmit the driver's steering motion 24 to the wheels 18.

[0124] The present invention relates to a steering device for actively controlling a motor vehicle in at least a semi-autonomous driving mode, comprising at least the following components:

[0125] - A steering body having a rotation axis, wherein the steering body includes a steering wheel shank and a steering wheel canister, wherein the steering wheel shank and the steering wheel canister are rotatably connected to each other about the rotation axis; and

[0126] - Airbag module, the airbag module being disposed within the steering wheel reservoir.

[0127] At least a portion of the steering body has an active position and a retracted position, and is movable between these positions.

[0128] In the active position, the steering body can rotate about the rotation axis to actively control the associated motor vehicle. A key feature of the steering device is that the airbag module remains oriented in the steering wheel reservoir in a functionally equivalent manner, regardless of the position of the steering body.

[0129] The steering mechanism proposed in this paper can increase the driver's freedom of movement and riding during (fully) autonomous operation of a motor vehicle, while maintaining safety in a collision event.

Claims

1. A steering device (1) for actively controlling a motor vehicle (2) that is at least semi-autonomous, comprising at least the following components: - A steering body (3) having a rotating shaft (4), wherein the steering body (3) includes a steering wheel shank (5) and a steering wheel canister (6), wherein the steering wheel shank (5) and the steering wheel canister (6) are rotatably connected to each other about the rotating shaft (4); and - Airbag module (7), the airbag module being disposed within the steering wheel reservoir (6), At least a portion of the steering body (3) has an active position (8) and a retracted position (9), and is capable of moving between these positions. In the active position (8), the steering body (3) is able to rotate around the rotation axis (4) to actively control the associated motor vehicle (2). Its features are, The airbag module (7) is held oriented in the steering wheel canister (6) in a functionally identical manner, regardless of the position of the steering body (3). The steering wheel handle (5) is releasably connected to the steering wheel reservoir (6). In the active position (8), the steering wheel shank (5) is fixed to the steering wheel reservoir (6) for torque transmission, and, In the retracted position (9), the steering wheel handle (5) is detached from the steering wheel canister (6).

2. The steering device (1) according to claim 1, wherein The steering wheel handle (5) is constructed as a steering wheel rim (10).

3. The steering device (1) according to claim 1, wherein The steering wheel handle (5) is releasably connected to the steering wheel canister (6) by means of a latch (11).

4. The steering device (1) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein The steering wheel tank (6) includes a first tank portion (12) and a second tank portion (13) that are movable relative to each other. The airbag module (7) is received in the second canister portion (13), and in, At least in the active position (8), the first can portion (12) of the steering wheel can (6) is connected to the steering wheel shank (5) and the second can portion (13) of the steering wheel can (6) in a torque transmission manner. The first tank portion (12) is pivotally mounted between the active position (8) and the retracted position (9) about a pivot axis (14).

5. The steering device (1) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein The steering wheel canister (6) includes a control element (15) by which the driver can operate vehicle functions.

6. The steering device (1) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein An axial offset (16) is formed between the steering wheel canister (6) and the steering wheel handle (5).

7. A motor vehicle (2) comprising at least the following components: - At least one drive unit (17); - At least one steerable vehicle wheel (18); and - At least one cockpit (19), the at least one cockpit having an instrument panel (20) and a steering device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The steering device (1) is configured to control the motor vehicle (2), receive steering commands from the driver, and convert the steering commands into torque transmission to at least one of the steerable vehicle wheels (18) for steering orientation of the relevant steerable vehicle wheel (18) corresponding to the steering command.

8. The motor vehicle (2) according to claim 7, wherein The steering wheel canister (6) can be stowed in a container (21) in the dashboard (20) of the motor vehicle (2).

9. The motor vehicle (2) according to claim 8, wherein The steering wheel canister (6) is capable of translating along the rotation axis (4).

10. The motor vehicle (2) according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein The retractable portion of the steering body (3) can be fixed in the retracted position (9).

11. The motor vehicle (2) according to claim 10, wherein The retractable portion of the steering body (3) can be fixed to the dashboard (20) of the motor vehicle (2).

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