Steering device

Abstract

A steering device has a rotating portion rotatably installed to a moving body, and a holding portion connected to the rotating portion. The rotating portion has a light irradiation portion that irradiates light toward at least a part of the holding portion. The light irradiation portion has a light emitting element that emits light within a predetermined angular range, and a lens that narrows the angular range of the light emitted by the light emitting element. When a direction in which at least a part of the holding portion, in which light is emitted, extends is set as a first direction, a direction perpendicular to the first direction and a direction of an optical axis of the light emitted by the light irradiation portion is set as a second direction, a plane containing the optical axis and the first direction is set as a first plane, and a plane containing the optical axis and the second direction is set as a second plane, the lens narrows the angular range of the light emitted by the light emitting element in such a manner that an angular range within the first plane, that is, a first angular range, is larger than an angular range within the second plane, that is, a second angular range.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-184535 filed on November 18, 2022 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-127679 filed on August 4, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a steering device installed on a moving body. Background Technology

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-111440 discloses a steering wheel lighting device that uses LEDs installed on the pad and spokes of the steering wheel to illuminate the steering wheel with visible light. The driver visually confirms the light illuminating the steering wheel, thereby encouraging the driver to hold the steering wheel when switching from automatic to manual driving.

[0005] Typically, the longitudinal dimension of a vehicle with a steering system is smaller than its lateral dimension. In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-111440, regarding an LED capable of illuminating the wheels with a brightness greater than or equal to a certain level in the lateral direction of a vehicle, if the light illuminates the wheels, the light that does not reach the wheels passes through the front and rear of the wheels. That is, the energy consumed by the LED is not effectively used for illuminating the wheels. Therefore, it is desirable to increase the proportion of light incident on the wheels. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention is proposed to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems and can be implemented in the following manner.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a steering device is provided. This steering device is a steering device disposed on a moving body, comprising: a rotating part rotatably mounted on the moving body; and a gripping part configured for gripping by a user and connected to the rotating part, the rotating part having a first light irradiation part emitting light toward at least a portion of the gripping part, the first light irradiation part having: a light-emitting element emitting light within a predetermined angular range; and a lens that reduces the angular range of the light emitted by the light-emitting element, wherein the direction extending from the at least a portion of the gripping part for emitting light is set as... In the first direction, the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit and the first direction is designated as the second direction. The surface containing the optical axis and the first direction is designated as the first surface, and the surface containing the optical axis and the second direction is designated as the second surface. The lens reduces the angle range of the light emitted by the light-emitting element in such a way that the angle range within the first surface of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit, i.e., the first angle range, is greater than the angle range within the second surface of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit, i.e., the second angle range. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing a vehicle equipped with the steering device of the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the steering mechanism.

[0010] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the connection between the gripping part and the rotating part.

[0011] Figure 4 It is a positive view towards the X-axis. Figure 3 The image.

[0012] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the first light irradiation section.

[0013] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the lens of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 It means Figure 2 A partial view of section VII-VII.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the intensity distribution.

[0016] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the control unit.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the lens of the second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the lens of the second embodiment viewed from the negative side of the first direction.

[0019] Figure 12 This diagram shows the state in which the light from the second light irradiation unit of the second embodiment irradiates the holding unit.

[0020] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the first light irradiation unit in the third embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0021] A. Implementation Method 1:

[0022] A1. Structure of the first embodiment:

[0023] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing a vehicle VW equipped with the steering device 1 of the first embodiment. Figure 1 The diagram shows the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis is the left-right direction of the vehicle (VW). The direction from the front side of the paper towards the inside is the positive direction of the X-axis. The Z-axis is the direction parallel to the direction extending from the rotation axis AR, which rotates via the steering device 1 of the first embodiment. The rotation axis AR will be explained later. The Y-axis is the direction orthogonal to the X-axis and Z-axis. (Further details will follow later.) Figures 2 to 4 ,as well as Figure 7 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 The same applies to China. Additionally, in... Figure 1 In this diagram, the direction of the plumb bob is represented by the VU axis. The upward direction of the plumb bob is the positive direction of the VU axis.

[0024] The vehicle VW in this embodiment is capable of automatic driving or manual driving by the driver DR. The vehicle VW includes a distance measuring device RF, a seat SE, a vehicle control unit VC, and a steering device 1. The distance measuring device RF and the steering device 1 are electrically connected to the vehicle control unit VC and can send and receive signals to each other.

[0025] The ranging device (RF) acquires the distance (VW) of the vehicle relative to other vehicles ahead. The RF then transmits the acquired distance data to the vehicle control unit (VC). Sonar is used as the ranging device RF. Alternatively, millimeter-wave radar, LiDAR sensors, etc., can also be used as the ranging device RF.

[0026] The seat SE is the part where the driver DR sits when steering the vehicle VW. The seat SE has a headrest HD. The headrest HD is the part for the driver DR to lean against. The headrest HD is located on the upper part of the seat SE in the vertical direction.

[0027] The vehicle control unit VC calculates the speeds of other vehicles based on their relative movement distances relative to vehicle VW within a predetermined time period. If the speed of another vehicle exceeds a predetermined value, the vehicle control unit VC sends a prior vehicle start signal, indicating that the other vehicle has started, to the control unit 30 (described later).

[0028] In addition, the vehicle control unit VC obtains the road section where autonomous driving is possible through wireless network communication. When the vehicle VW is engaged in autonomous driving and approaches the road section that requires driver DR to drive at a predetermined distance, the vehicle control unit VC sends a manual driving switch signal, indicating that the vehicle VW should switch from autonomous driving to manual driving, to the control unit 30 described later.

[0029] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram showing the steering device 1. Figure 2 It is a positive view towards the Z-axis. Figure 1 The diagram shows the steering device 1. Figure 2 The diagram shows a simplified version of the steering mechanism 1. Additionally, in... Figure 2 For ease of understanding, section lines are marked for the rotating part 20. (This will be discussed later.) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The same applies to the middle. Steering mechanism 1 is operated by the driver (DR), who is the user of the vehicle (VW) (see reference). Figure 1 Steering device 1 is a device that enables vehicle steering (VW) by driver DR operation.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the steering device 1 is connected to the rotating shaft AR inside the front FRO of the vehicle VW (see reference). Figure 1 (The dashed section). The steering unit 1 is mounted to the vehicle VW via the rotating shaft AR. The rotating shaft AR transmits rotation to a torque sensor in the vehicle VW (not shown). The steering unit 1 has Figure 2 The gripping part 10, the rotating part 20, and the control part 30 are shown. Figure 2 The diagram of the control unit 30 is omitted.

[0031] The grip 10 is configured to be gripped by the driver DR. The grip 10 is configured symmetrically across the rotating part 20. The grip 10 is connected to the rotating part 20 on its inner circumferential side. In this embodiment, the grip 10 has an approximately annular shape. The grip 10 is configured to surround the rotating axis AR when viewed from the positive side toward the Z-axis. Furthermore, in Figure 2 The diagram of the rotation axis AR is omitted.

[0032] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the connection between the gripping part 10 and the rotating part 20. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the holding part 10 has a core part 11 and a covering part 12. Figure 3 As shown, the core portion 11 is the part connected to the rotating portion 20. The core portion 11 has a ring-shaped form. The core portion 11 is configured to be symmetrical about the rotating portion 20. Aluminum alloy is used as the material for the core portion 11.

[0033] Figure 2 The cover 12 shown covers and protects the core portion 11. Additionally, the cover 12 covers a portion of the rotating portion 20. The cover 12 has a first cover 121 and a second cover 122. Figure 2 Only the second cover portion 122 is shown in the diagram; the first cover portion 121 is omitted. The first cover portion 121 covers the core portion 11. Additionally, the first cover portion 121 covers a portion of the rotating portion 20. The first cover portion 121 is covered by the second cover portion 122. The first cover portion 121 is formed of a soft synthetic resin. In this embodiment, foamed polyurethane is used as the synthetic resin. The second cover portion 122 covers the first cover portion 121. In this embodiment, leather is used as the material for the second cover portion 122.

[0034] The rotating part 20 is rotatably mounted to the vehicle VW. Specifically, the rotating part 20 is rotatably mounted to the vehicle VW by means of a rotating shaft AR passing through a fixing hole 211 described later. Additionally, as... Figure 3 As shown, the rotating part 20 is connected to the holding part 10. The position of the rotating part 20, which includes the VU direction (which is the direction of the plumb bob), on the plane of symmetry of the rotating part 20 is defined as the "reference angular position of the rotating part 20". Figure 3 The diagram shows the state where the rotating part 20 is at its reference angular position. For example... Figure 3 As shown, when the rotating part 20 is not rotated by the driver DR, the rotating part 20 is symmetrical with respect to the plane containing the Y-axis and Z-axis. The rotating part 20 has a fixed part 21, a pad part 22, a housing space SP, a first light irradiation part 23, and a second light irradiation part 24.

[0035] The fixing part 21 is the portion connected to the holding part 10. The fixing part 21 has a fixing hole 211 formed at its center, through which the rotating shaft AR inside the front FRO of the vehicle VW passes. Furthermore, in Figure 3 The rotation axis AR is not shown in the diagram. The fixed part 21 can rotate around the rotation axis AR.

[0036] Figure 4 It is a positive view towards the X-axis. Figure 3 The image. Figure 4 In the diagram, the shape of the steering device 1 is represented by a straight line. For example... Figure 4As shown, the fixing part 21 protrudes towards the positive side of the Z-axis, which is the direction away from the center of the grip part 10 and away from the driver DR. Figure 3 As shown, the fixing part 21 has the aforementioned fixing hole 211 formed at its center. Aluminum alloy is used as the material for the fixing part 21.

[0037] The pad portion 22 protects a portion of the fixing portion 21 by covering it. The pad portion 22 is fixed to the fixing portion 21 by bonding it to the fixing portion 21. The pad portion 22 has a pad hole portion 222, a first irradiation hole portion 223, and a second irradiation hole portion 224.

[0038] like Figure 3 As shown, the pad hole 222 is larger than the fixing hole 211. The pad hole 222 is formed in the center of the pad 22. Figure 4 As shown, the portion of the fixing part 21 that forms the fixing hole 211 passes through the pad hole 222.

[0039] Figure 3 The first irradiation aperture 223 shown is an aperture through which light emitted from the first light irradiation unit 23 (described later) passes. The second irradiation aperture 224 is an aperture through which light emitted from the second light irradiation unit 24 (described later) passes.

[0040] The containment space SP is a space formed inside the pad portion 22. The containment space SP contains an airbag and an inflator (not shown). Additionally, the containment space SP contains the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24. Furthermore, although not shown, the steering device 1 has a cover that covers the containment space SP. This protects the components contained in the containment space SP from external impacts.

[0041] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the first light irradiation section 23 emits light RL1 toward the holding section 10. Figure 2 and Figure 3 A portion of light RL1 is shown in the image. Figure 3 In the image, the shaded area is marked with a shading line for light RL1. Figure 4 The same applies to China. Figure 3As shown, the first light irradiation unit 23 is configured such that, when the rotating unit 20 is at a reference angle position, it irradiates the portion of the holding unit 10 located above the rotating unit 20 in the VU direction (which is the plumb line direction). Furthermore, in this specification, "above the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction" means a region higher than the area occupied by the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction. An object A being "above the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction" does not mean being directly above the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction. That is, when projected in the plumb line direction, the horizontal position of object A may not overlap with the rotating unit 20. Similarly, in this specification, "below the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction" means a region lower than the area occupied by the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction. An object A being "below the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction" does not mean being directly below the rotating unit 20 in the plumb line direction. That is, when projected in the plumb line direction, the horizontal position of object A may not overlap with the rotating unit 20.

[0042] In this embodiment, in order to ensure that the grip portion 10 does not obstruct the driver's (DR) line of sight, the steering device 1 is configured such that the upper end of the grip portion 10 in the plumb direction passes through the center of the headrest HD and is located at a position further down in the plumb direction than a line perpendicular to the plumb direction (see reference). Figure 1 (The dashed line A). Therefore, the driver (DR) can easily visually confirm the portion of the grip 10 that is higher than the portion lower in the plumb direction. In this embodiment, when the rotating part 20 is in the reference angle position, by illuminating the portion of the grip 10 located higher in the plumb direction than the rotating part 20, the driver (DR) can more easily visually confirm the light reflected at the grip 10 compared to illuminating the portion located lower in the plumb direction than the rotating part 20.

[0043] like Figure 3 As shown, the optical axis OA1 of the first light irradiation unit 23 passes through the holding unit 10. In this embodiment, the light RL1 emitted by the first light irradiation unit 23 has an intensity distribution such that the intensity decreases the further away from the optical axis OA1 the light is from the angular position. The angular position of the light refers to the angle relative to the optical axis OA1 within a plane including the optical axis OA1 and the direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA1. The intensity distribution will be described later.

[0044] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in this embodiment, the first light irradiation unit 23 is configured such that, when the rotating unit 20 is at a reference angle position, a proportion of the irradiated light greater than or equal to a predetermined proportion is directed into the upper half of the gripping unit 10 in the Y-axis direction, specifically the portion of the gripping unit 10 opposite to the headrest HD. (See reference) Figure 2 (The parts labeled PA and PAD). The predetermined ratio refers to the proportion of light that the driver (DR) can easily visually confirm during the operation of the steering device 1 when the amount of light emitted from the first light irradiation unit 23 is set to 100%. The predetermined ratio is determined by the vehicle manufacturer, VW. In this manner, during the operation of the steering device 1, a predetermined ratio of light can be incident on a portion that the driver (DR) can easily visually confirm. Figure 3 As shown, the first light irradiation unit 23 is disposed on the upper end 221 side of the pad portion 22. The first light irradiation unit 23 is disposed within the receiving space SP. By disposing the first light irradiation unit 23 within the receiving space SP, the driver DR can easily visually inspect the instruments, windshield, etc., inside the vehicle VW.

[0045] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing the structure of the first light irradiation unit 23. The first light irradiation unit 23 has an approximately cuboid shape. The first light irradiation unit 23 includes a housing 231, a light-emitting element 232, a light source substrate 233, and a lens 234.

[0046] The housing 231 is a component that houses the light-emitting element 232, the light source substrate 233, and the lens 234. The housing 231 has an approximately cuboid shape. Silicone resin is used as the material for the housing 231. The housing 231 has a housing hole 231a. The housing hole 231a is a hole through which light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 and transmitted through the lens 234 passes.

[0047] The light-emitting element 232 emits light within a predetermined angular range. In this specification, the angular range refers to the range of angles of light passing through a plane containing the optical axis OA1. In this embodiment, the light-emitting element 232 emits light within a 30-degree angular range extending left and right in a certain plane, centered on the optical axis OA1. Furthermore, Figure 2 and Figure 3 and the following Figure 11 The angle of the light is not accurate. In this embodiment, a light-emitting diode (LED) is used as the light-emitting element 232. The light-emitting element 232 is disposed on a light source substrate 233. The light source substrate 233 is a printed substrate. The light source substrate 233 has an approximately cuboid shape.

[0048] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing the lens 234 of the first embodiment. Figure 7 It means Figure 2 A partial diagram of section VII-VII. Furthermore, Figure 7 The cross-sectional shape of the holding part 10 is not accurate. In describing the lens 234, the surface including the optical axis OA1 and the direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA1 will be described first. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the direction in which a portion of the emitted light extends from the holding portion 10 is referred to as the first direction FD. In this embodiment, the first direction FD is a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA1. The surface containing the optical axis OA1 and the first direction FD of the light emitted from the first light irradiation portion 23 is referred to as the first surface FR. Figure 2 In the middle, the dashed box represents a part of the first face FR.

[0049] like Figure 7 As shown, the direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA1 and the first direction FD is defined as the second direction SD. The surface encompassing the optical axis OA1 and the second direction SD is called the second surface SR. Figure 7 In the diagram, a portion of the second surface SR is indicated by a box. Below, the direction of the optical axis OA1 toward the gripping part 10 is denoted as "positive direction of optical axis OA1," and the opposite direction is denoted as "negative direction of optical axis OA1." The direction of the first direction FD toward the right side of the vehicle VW is denoted as "positive direction of the first direction FD," and the opposite direction is denoted as "negative direction of the first direction FD." The direction of the second direction SD toward the front of the vehicle VW is denoted as "positive direction of the second direction SD," and the opposite direction is denoted as "negative direction of the second direction SD."

[0050] Figure 6 The lens 234 shown allows light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 to pass through. In this embodiment, the lens 234 reduces the angular range of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 232. The lens 234 has a lens portion 234a and a base 234b.

[0051] Lens portion 234a is the part through which light emitted from light-emitting element 232 passes. Lens portion 234a is connected to base 234b. Lens portion 234a has a shape that protrudes from the end connected to base 234b toward the positive side of optical axis OA1. The surface of lens portion 234a connected to base 234b is a plane perpendicular to optical axis OA1. Lens portion 234a has a curved surface formed from vertex 234aa toward the negative side of optical axis OA1. The curved surface extending from vertex 234aa toward the first direction FD forms a gentler curved surface than the curved surface extending toward the second direction SD. Lens portion 234a has a circular shape when viewed from the positive side of optical axis OA1. Acrylic acid is used as the material for lens portion 234a. Lens portion 234a has a transmitting surface 234T and a reflecting surface 234R.

[0052] The transmitting surface 234T is the portion through which light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 passes. The transmitting surface 234T forms the curved surface of the lens portion 234a. The transmitting surface 234T is a surface of the lens portion 234a that extends in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA1. The reflecting surface 234R reflects light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 and incident on the lens portion 234a, thereby reducing the angular range of light traveling in the first direction FD and the second direction SD. The reflecting surface 234R is the portion of the lens portion 234a other than the transmitting surface 234T. The reflecting surface 234R is a surface of the lens portion 234a that extends in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA1. The reflecting surface 234R constitutes the side surface of the lens portion 234a.

[0053] It is generally known that light has the property that when it is incident on the plane of a transparent object at an angle greater than or equal to a specified angle, light is reflected instead of transmitted. The reflecting surface 234R in the lens section 234a is configured such that light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 undergoes total internal reflection.

[0054] The base 234b is a part used to fix the lens part 234a inside the housing 231. The base 234b is connected to the lens part 234a.

[0055] Figure 3 The second light irradiation unit 24 shown has the same structure as the first light irradiation unit 23. The second light irradiation unit 24 is disposed on the upper end 221 side of the pad portion 22. The second light irradiation unit 24 is arranged in the receiving space SP in the X-axis direction relative to the first light irradiation unit 23. The second light irradiation unit 24 is configured to be symmetrical with respect to the plane containing the Y-axis and Z-axis, as shown. Figure 2 As shown, the second light irradiation section 24 is configured such that a portion of the emitted light RL2 overlaps with a portion of the light RL1 emitted from the first light irradiation section 23. The portion of the holding section 10 irradiated by the overlapping light is denoted as the overlapping portion PAD. The portion of emitted light refers to the portion including the angular position furthest from the optical axis OA1 of the first light irradiation section 23 and the optical axis OA2 of the second light irradiation section 24. The second light irradiation section 24 is configured such that, as shown in... Figure 2 When the rotating part 20 is at the reference angle, the overlapping light illuminates the portion of the holding part 10 located on the upper side in the plumb direction relative to the rotating part 20 (see reference). Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0056] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the intensity distribution. Figure 8 It means from Figure 2 A graph showing the light intensity distribution when the gripping part 10 is positioned correctly, with the horizontal axis +X and... Figure 2The positive direction of the X-axis corresponds to this. As described above, in this embodiment, the intensity of the light RL1 emitted by the first light irradiation unit 23 decreases the further away from the optical axis OA1. The same applies to the light RL2 emitted by the second light irradiation unit 24. That is, the closer the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 are to the optical axes OA1 and OA2, the greater the light intensity, and the intensity decreases as they move away from the optical axes OA1 and OA2.

[0057] like Figure 8 As shown by the solid lines, if the light axes OA1 of the first irradiation section 23 and OA2 of the second irradiation section 24 are moved away from each other, the intensity of light RL1 and light RL2 of the first irradiation section 23 and the second irradiation section 24 decreases. On the other hand, as... Figure 8 As shown by the dashed line, regarding the overlapping portion of light RL1 and light RL2, the intensity of the light increases compared to the case of individual light RL1 and light RL2.

[0058] The overlapping portion, including the angular positions furthest from the optical axis OA1 of the first light irradiation section 23 and the optical axis OA2 of the second light irradiation section 24, amplifies the reduced light intensity. Furthermore, the closer the angular range is to the optical axes OA1 and OA2, the greater the intensity. Therefore, the light intensity increases from the overlapping portion PAD towards the optical axes OA1 or OA2, or becomes the same intensity relative to the overlapping portion PAD. Thus, when the driver (DR) observes the grip portion 10, a portion of the grip portion 10 appears to emit light uniformly (see reference). Figure 2 The labels are PA, PAD, and PA2.

[0059] Furthermore, as described above, the overlapping portion PAD is located on the upper side in the vertical direction relative to the rotating portion 20. Therefore, compared to a configuration without the overlapping portion PAD, the intensity of light on the portion of the grip portion 10 that is easily visually confirmed by the driver (DR) is enhanced. Thus, in this embodiment, the portions of the illuminated light overlap at an angle position away from the optical axis OA1, making the light easily visually confirmed by the driver (DR). Moreover, the overlapping portion is located on the uppermost side of the grip portion 10 in the vertical direction, making it even easier for the driver (DR) to visually confirm the light.

[0060] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing the control unit 30. The control unit 30 has a CPU, ROM, and RAM, which function as a processor. The CPU causes the program stored in the ROM to be expanded in the RAM, thereby realizing the following functions.

[0061] The control unit 30 controls the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24. Specifically, the control unit 30 controls the timing of the light emission from each of the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24. The control unit 30 receives a preceding vehicle start signal and a manual driving switch signal from the vehicle control unit VC. The control unit 30 controls the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 to emit light simultaneously when the preceding vehicle start signal is received from the vehicle control unit VC. The control unit 30 causes the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 to emit light at a predetermined time. As a result, the driver DR, who receives the reflected light from the handle 10, can observe the front of the vehicle VW and notice that the preceding vehicle has started. Furthermore, after the light-based notification begins, a speaker (not shown) inside the vehicle VW announces via voice that the vehicle VW in front of the vehicle VW has started.

[0062] In this embodiment, when the control unit 30 receives a manual driving change signal, it controls the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 to alternately emit light.

[0063] As described above, sending a manual driving switch signal to the control unit 30 sometimes requires the driver (DR) to drive the vehicle (VW). In this case, the urgency required of the driver (DR) is considered higher than when the preceding vehicle has already started moving. The first light illuminating unit 23 and the second light illuminating unit 24 alternately illuminate the handle 10, causing it to flash alternately. Therefore, even if the driver (DR) is not paying attention to the light on the handle 10, the driver (DR) can easily notice the light. Furthermore, after the light-based notification begins, a voice notification (not shown) is sent from a speaker inside the vehicle (VW) to inform the driver (DR) that the vehicle (VW) needs to drive.

[0064] 2. The effect of reducing the angular range of light by using lens 234:

[0065] It is generally known that light-emitting elements have the property of emitting light in a conical shape around the optical axis. Therefore, when the curvature of the lens portion is the same in the first and second directions, the light emitted from the light-emitting element passes through the lens portion in a circular shape around the optical axis. As described above, the steering device 1 is a ring-shaped component held by the driver DR. Therefore, regarding the circular emission of light around the optical axis OA1, when viewed from the X-axis direction, the proportion of light passing around the holding portion 10 in the Z-axis direction is relatively large (see reference). Figure 7 (dashed line).

[0066] In this embodiment, as described above, the curvature of the lens portion 234a in the second direction SD is greater than the curvature in the first direction FD (see reference). Figure 6 Therefore, as Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, the angle range of the first surface FR (i.e., the first angular range FAR) of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 is greater than the second angular range SAR. Furthermore, the first angular range FAR refers to the range where the light intensity is greater than or equal to 10% of the peak light intensity on the straight line intersecting the plane perpendicular to the optical axis OA1 and the first surface FR. The second angular range SAR refers to the range where the light intensity is greater than or equal to 10% of the peak light intensity on the straight line intersecting the plane perpendicular to the optical axis OA1 and the second surface SR.

[0067] Therefore, in this embodiment, compared with the method where the first angular range FAR and the second angular range SAR are equal, and the method where the first angular range FAR is less than the second angular range SAR, the proportion of light irradiating the holding part 10 from the light RL1 emitted from the first light irradiation part 23 can be increased.

[0068] Furthermore, in this embodiment, Figure 6 The reflective surface 234R shown causes light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 and incident on the reflective surface 234R to be reflected. This configuration ensures that the light converges within a predetermined range along the X-axis of the holding portion 10 (see reference). Figure 2 (PA and PAD). That is, compared with the method without forming a reflective surface 234R, the range of light extending on the X-axis is reduced by narrowing the first angular range FAR. As a result, compared with the method without forming a reflective surface 234R, the light intensity can be further increased on the upper side in the plumb line direction that is easily visually confirmed by the driver DR.

[0069] B. Second implementation method:

[0070] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the lens 234B according to the second embodiment. Figure 10 In the diagram, the outline where the surface of the lens portion 234aB intersects with the first surface FRB is represented by a thick line. In the second embodiment, the shape of the lens 234B differs from that in the first embodiment. Other than this, the structure is the same as in the first embodiment; therefore, the same reference numerals are used and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0071] like Figure 10 As shown, the lens portion 234aB of the second embodiment is asymmetrical with respect to the first surface FRB. The lens portion 234aB has a reflecting surface 234R formed only on one of its two opposing ends 234Ba in the second direction SD. Specifically, the reflecting surface 234R is formed on the end 234Ba of the lens 234B on the side closest to the front FRO of the vehicle VW. The front FRO side of the vehicle VW is the positive side of the second direction SD. The reflecting surface 234R formed in the second direction SD is referred to as the second reflecting surface 234RB.

[0072] The second reflecting surface 234RB causes light incident on the lens 234B to be reflected, thus defining the angular range of light at one end of the front of the vehicle VW, i.e., the front FRO side. The end of the front FRO side is the portion that includes all directions of the optical axis OA1 direction, the first direction FD, and the second direction SD.

[0073] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the lens 234B of the second embodiment viewed from the negative side of the first direction FD. Figure 11 In the diagram, solid lines represent the direction of light travel. Figure 12 This diagram shows the state in which the light from the second light irradiation unit 24B of the second embodiment irradiates the holding unit 10.

[0074] Figure 12 The shape of the gripping part 10 is not accurate. For example... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, within the second surface SR, the light from the front FRO side end of the light emitted from the SAR in the second angular range is reflected at the second reflecting surface 234RB. Figure 11 As shown, the light reflected from the second reflecting surface 234RB passes through the transmitting surface 234TB of the lens section 234aB. Furthermore, as... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, light transmitted through the lens portion 234aB illuminates the holding portion 10. In the second embodiment, the lens portion 234aB is configured such that all light emitted by the SAR within the second angular range illuminates the holding portion 10. Regarding the method of not forming the second reflective surface 234RB, as... Figure 11 As indicated by the dashed arrow B, light passes through the front FRO side. The same applies to the first light irradiation section 23B.

[0075] In the second embodiment, the light at the front end of the light emitted from the SAR in the second angle range does not pass through the grip portion 10, but instead illuminates the grip portion 10. Therefore, the proportion of light illuminating the grip portion 10 can be further increased regarding the light emitted from the SAR in the second angle range. In addition, by reflecting the light at the second reflective surface 234RB, light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 and reflected by the grip portion 10 onto the windshield of the vehicle VW can be prevented from entering the driver's (DR) eyes, thus preventing steering operations of the vehicle VW from becoming difficult.

[0076] C. Third implementation method:

[0077] Figure 13This figure illustrates the configuration of the first light irradiation unit 23C according to the third embodiment. The structure of the lens unit 234aC and the configuration of the first light irradiation unit 23C differ in the third embodiment compared to the first and second embodiments. Other than these differences, the structure is the same as in the first and second embodiments; therefore, the same reference numerals are used, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0078] In the third embodiment, the orientation of the optical axis OAC1 of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 and reaching the lens portion 234aC differs from that in the first and second embodiments. For example... Figure 7 and Figure 12 As shown, in the first and second embodiments, the first light irradiation section 23 is configured such that the optical axis OA1 of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 of the first light irradiation section 23 travels perpendicularly with respect to the Y-axis direction and enters the holding section 10. In the first and second embodiments, the light passing through the optical axis OA1 of the first light irradiation section 23 passes through the transmission surfaces 234T and 234TB after being emitted from the light-emitting element 232, and continues to travel perpendicularly into the holding section 10 (see reference). Figure 6 as well as Figure 11 ).

[0079] In the third embodiment, the lens portion 234aC is configured to change the orientation of the optical axis OAC1 of the light emitted from and into the light-emitting element 232 to the orientation towards the holding portion 10, thereby emitting the light. Figure 13 As shown, the first light irradiation section 23C of the third embodiment is configured such that the optical axis OAC1 of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 is initially parallel to the Y-axis direction (see reference). Figure 13 OAC1). In Figure 13 In the diagram, the dashed line represents the extended optical axis OAC1. Furthermore, the lens section 234aC is configured such that when light traveling along the optical axis OAC1 is incident, the light travels in a straight line with an angle relative to the Y-axis direction. Figure 13 The optical axis OAC2). The same applies to the second light irradiation unit 24C. Furthermore, the illustration of the second light irradiation unit 24C in the third embodiment is omitted.

[0080] In the third embodiment, when the first light irradiation unit 23C is configured such that the direction of the optical axis OAC1 of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit 23C is different from the direction toward the gripping unit 10, light can still be emitted into the gripping unit 10. As a result, the degree of freedom in the arrangement of the first light irradiation unit 23C and the second light irradiation unit 24C inside the vehicle VW is improved.

[0081] D. Other implementation methods:

[0082] D1. Other implementation methods 1:

[0083] (1) In the above embodiment, the steering device 1 is mounted on the vehicle VW. In addition, the steering device may be installed on a moving body other than a vehicle, such as a ship or an aircraft.

[0084] (2) In the above embodiment, the first light irradiation unit 23 emits light RL1 toward a portion of the gripping unit 10. Alternatively, the first light irradiation unit may emit light toward the entire gripping unit. Light is emitted from the first light irradiation unit toward at least a portion of the gripping unit.

[0085] (3) In the above embodiment, the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 are housed in the housing space SP. Furthermore, for example, when the rotating part is at a reference angle position, the first light irradiation unit may be positioned on the upper side of the pad in the vertical direction. Additionally, in the above embodiment, the second light irradiation unit is arranged in the housing space along with the first light irradiation unit in the X-axis direction. For example, the first and second light irradiation units may also be arranged in the Y-axis direction.

[0086] (4) In the above embodiment, the gripping part 10 has an approximately annular shape. Alternatively, the gripping part may also have an approximately cuboid shape that surrounds the rotating part. Furthermore, the gripping part may have a shape in which multiple rod-shaped components are connected to the left and right sides of the rotating part and the lower side in the plumb direction when the rotating part is at a reference angle position. Alternatively, the gripping part may have two rod-shaped components respectively arranged in the left and right directions of the rotating part when the rotating part is at a reference angle position. In the above embodiment, the gripping part 10 is configured to be symmetrical with respect to the rotating part 20. Alternatively, the gripping part may not be configured to be symmetrical with respect to the rotating part.

[0087] (5) In the above embodiment, a light-emitting diode is used as the light-emitting element 232. Alternatively, a laser diode may also be used as the light-emitting element.

[0088] (6) In the above embodiment, aluminum alloy is used as the material for the core part 11. In addition, stainless steel, magnesium alloy, etc. may also be used as the material for the core part.

[0089] (7) In the above embodiment, polyurethane foam is used as the material for the first covering part 121. Alternatively, soft materials other than polyurethane foam may be used.

[0090] (8) In the above embodiment, leather is used as the material for the second covering part 122. Alternatively, resin may be used as the material for the second covering part, for example.

[0091] (9) In the above embodiment, aluminum alloy is used as the material for the fixing part 21. In addition, stainless steel, magnesium alloy, etc. may also be used as the material for the fixing part.

[0092] (10) In the above embodiment, silicone resin is used as the material of the housing 231. In addition, for example, materials other than silicone resin, such as polyurethane and polycarbonate, may also be used as the material of the housing.

[0093] (11) In the above embodiment, acrylic acid is used as the material for the lens portion 234a. Alternatively, glass may also be used as the material for the lens portion.

[0094] (12) In the above embodiment, the first light irradiation unit 23 is configured such that, when the rotating unit 20 is at a reference angle position, a proportion of the irradiated light greater than or equal to a predetermined proportion is incident on the upper half of the gripping unit 10 in the Y-axis direction, specifically on the portion of the gripping unit 10 opposite to the headrest HD. Alternatively, for example, the first light irradiation unit may be configured such that all the light irradiated by the first light irradiation unit is incident on the portion of the gripping unit opposite to the headrest. Furthermore, a proportion of the light irradiated by the first light irradiation unit less than a predetermined proportion may also be incident on the portion of the gripping unit opposite to the headrest.

[0095] D2. Other implementation methods 2:

[0096] In the second embodiment described above, the lens portion 234aB defines the angle range of light at one end in front of the vehicle VW, i.e., the front FRO side. Alternatively, the lens portion may define the angle range of light at one end on the driver's side, for example.

[0097] D3. Other implementation methods 3:

[0098] In the third embodiment described above, the first light irradiation unit 23 is configured such that the optical axis OAC1 of the light emitted from the light-emitting element 232 is initially parallel to the Y-axis direction. The lens unit 234aC is configured to change the orientation of the optical axis OAC1 of the light emitted from and into the light-emitting element 232 to the orientation toward the holding unit 10, thereby emitting light. Furthermore, the first light irradiation unit may be configured such that, for example, the optical axis of the light emitted from the light-emitting element initially becomes the opposite direction to the direction toward the holding unit, and the lens may also be configured to change the orientation of the optical axis to the orientation toward the holding unit, thereby emitting light.

[0099] D4. Other implementation methods 4:

[0100] (1) In the above embodiment, the gripping part 10 is configured to surround the rotating part 20. In addition, for example, when the gripping part is two rod-shaped components arranged in two directions on the left and right sides of the rotating part when the rotating part is in a reference angle position, the gripping part may not be configured to surround the rotating part.

[0101] (2) In the above embodiment, the first light irradiation unit 23 is configured such that, when the rotating part 20 is at a reference angle position, light irradiates the portion of the holding part 10 located on the upper side in the plumb direction relative to the rotating part 20. Alternatively, it may be configured such that, for example, when the rotating part is at a reference angle position, the first light irradiation unit irradiates the portions of the holding part located on both sides of the X-axis relative to the rotating part.

[0102] D5. Other implementation methods 5:

[0103] (1) In the above embodiment, the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit 23 has the following intensity distribution, that is, the intensity decreases the further away from the optical axis OA1. In addition, the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit may also have the following property, that is, the intensity does not change at angle positions away from the optical axis.

[0104] (2) In the above embodiment, the steering device 1 has a second light irradiation section 24, which has the same structure as the first light irradiation section 23. In addition, for example, if the first light irradiation section is arranged in a position passing through the center of the rotating section and the Y-axis when the rotating section is in a reference angle position, the steering device may not have a second light irradiation section.

[0105] For example, the steering device can have a third and a fourth light irradiation section based on the second light irradiation section, and the third and fourth light irradiation sections have the same structure as the first light irradiation section. When the rotating part is in the reference angle position, the third and fourth light irradiation sections can be arranged on the lower side in the plumb line relative to the rotating part.

[0106] In a configuration where the third and fourth light irradiation units are positioned below the first and second light irradiation units in the vertical direction of the rotating unit, for example, when the control unit receives a manual driving change signal, the first and second light irradiation units can be controlled to emit light alternately. Furthermore, the control unit can also control the third and fourth light irradiation units to emit light simultaneously when a starting signal from a preceding vehicle is received.

[0107] (3) In the above embodiment, a portion of the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 overlaps. Furthermore, for example, if the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit has the property that the intensity does not change at an angular position away from the optical axis, a portion of the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit and the second light irradiation unit may not overlap.

[0108] (4) In the above embodiment, the first light irradiation part 23 and the second light irradiation part 24 are configured such that overlapping light irradiates the portion of the holding part 10 located on the upper side in the plumb direction relative to the rotating part 20. Alternatively, for example, the first light irradiation part and the second light irradiation part may be configured such that overlapping light irradiates the portion of the holding part located on the lower side in the plumb direction relative to the rotating part.

[0109] D6. Other implementation methods 6:

[0110] (1) In the above embodiment, the steering device 1 is installed in a vehicle VW that is capable of automatic driving or manual driving by a driver DR. Alternatively, the steering device may also be installed in a vehicle that can only be manually driven.

[0111] (2) In the above embodiment, the control unit 30 alternately emits light from the first light irradiation unit 23 and the second light irradiation unit 24 when the vehicle VW changes from automatic driving to manual driving. In addition, for example, in a vehicle in which the steering device is installed, the control unit may also prevent the light from being emitted alternately from the first light irradiation unit and the second light irradiation unit.

[0112] (3) In the above embodiment, the vehicle VW has a ranging device RF. In addition, for example, in a mode where the vehicle control unit does not send a starting signal of the preceding vehicle to the control unit, the vehicle may not have a ranging device.

[0113] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be implemented in various structures without departing from its spirit. For example, in order to solve some or all of the above problems, or to achieve some or all of the above effects, the technical features of the embodiments corresponding to the technical features in the various methods described in the Summary of the Invention section can be appropriately replaced or combined. In addition, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it can be appropriately deleted. For example, this invention can be implemented by the following description.

[0114] (1) According to one aspect of the present invention, a steering device is provided. The steering device is a steering device disposed on a moving body, comprising: a rotating part rotatably mounted on the moving body; and a gripping part configured for gripping by a user and connected to the rotating part, the rotating part having a first light irradiation part emitting light toward at least a portion of the gripping part, the first light irradiation part having: a light-emitting element emitting light within a predetermined angle range; and a lens that reduces the angle range of the light emitted by the light-emitting element, wherein the direction in which the at least a portion of the gripping part extends for emitting the light is set as the first light irradiation part. In the first direction, the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit and the first direction is designated as the second direction. The surface containing the optical axis and the first direction is designated as the first surface, and the surface containing the optical axis and the second direction is designated as the second surface. The lens reduces the angle range of the light emitted by the light-emitting element in such a way that the angle range within the first surface of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit, i.e., the first angle range, is greater than the angle range within the second surface of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit, i.e., the second angle range.

[0115] In this method, compared with the method where the first angle range and the second angle range are equal, or the method where the first angle range is smaller than the second angle range, the proportion of light illuminating the holding part from the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit can be increased.

[0116] (2) According to the method of the present invention, when the steering device is mounted on the moving body, the lens has a reflective surface at one end that divides the angular range of the light by reflecting the light incident into the lens, and the light at the front end of the light emitted in the second angular range is irradiated by the gripping part within the second surface.

[0117] In this manner, the light at the forward end of the light emitted within the second angle range does not pass through the gripping part, but instead illuminates the gripping part. Therefore, regarding the light emitted within the second angle range, the proportion of light illuminating the gripping part can be further increased.

[0118] (3) According to the method of the present invention, the lens may be configured to change the orientation of the optical axis of the incident light to the orientation toward the holding part and emit light.

[0119] In this manner, even if the first light irradiation unit is configured such that the direction of the optical axis of the light emitted from the first light irradiation unit is different from the direction toward the holding unit, light can still be emitted into the holding unit. The degree of freedom in the configuration of the first light irradiation unit inside the moving body is increased.

[0120] (4) According to the present invention, the gripping part may be configured to surround the rotating part, and when the steering device is installed on the moving body, the first light irradiation part is configured to irradiate the portion of the gripping part located on the upper side of the rotating part relative to the plumb line when the rotating part is in a reference angle position.

[0121] In this method, by illuminating the portion of the rotating part located above the plumb line relative to the pivot, the user can more easily visually confirm the light reflected from the grip compared to illuminating the portion of the rotating part located below the plumb line relative to the pivot.

[0122] (5) According to the present invention, the light emitted by the first light irradiation part may have an intensity distribution in which the intensity decreases as it moves further away from the optical axis. The rotating part may also have a second light irradiation part, which has the same structure as the first light irradiation part. The first light irradiation part and the second light irradiation part are configured such that a portion of the light emitted by each part overlaps. When the steering device is mounted on the moving body, and the rotating part is at a reference angle position, the overlapping light irradiates the portion of the holding part located on the upper side of the rotating part in the plumb direction relative to the rotating part.

[0123] In this method, the closer the first and second light-illuminating parts are to the optical axis, the greater the light intensity; the intensity decreases as they move away from the optical axis. The overlapping of the illuminated areas makes the light easily visible to the user.

[0124] (6) According to the present invention, the steering device may be installed in a vehicle capable of automatic driving or manual driving by the user, the rotating part further having a second light irradiation part having the same structure as the first light irradiation part, the steering device further having a control part for controlling the first light irradiation part and the second light irradiation part, wherein when the vehicle switches from automatic driving to manual driving, the control part causes the light to be emitted alternately from the first light irradiation part and the second light irradiation part.

[0125] In this method, light is alternately irradiated by the first light irradiation unit and the second light irradiation unit, thereby causing the handle to flash alternately. As a result, the user can easily notice the light even when the user is not paying attention to the light on the handle.

Claims

1. A steering device disposed on a moving body, wherein, The steering device has: A rotating part, which is rotatably mounted on the moving body; as well as The gripping part is configured to be held by the user and connected to the rotating part. The rotating part has a first light irradiation part that emits light toward at least a portion of the holding part. The first light irradiation unit has: A light-emitting element that emits light within a predetermined angle range; and A lens that reduces the angular range of the light emitted by the light-emitting element. When the direction in which at least a portion of the light emitted from the holding portion extends is designated as a first direction, the direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the light emitted from the first light irradiation portion and the first direction is designated as a second direction, the surface containing the optical axis and the first direction is designated as a first surface, and the surface containing the optical axis and the second direction is designated as a second surface, The lens reduces the angle range of the light emitted by the light-emitting element in such a way that the angle range within the first surface of the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit, i.e., the first angle range, is greater than the angle range within the second surface of the light emitted by the first light irradiation unit, i.e., the second angle range.

2. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein, With the steering device installed on the moving body The lens has a reflective surface at one of its front ends that divides the angular range of light by reflecting light incident upon the lens. Within the second surface, the light emitted from the front end of the light emitted within the second angle range illuminates the gripping portion.

3. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein, The lens is configured to change the orientation of the optical axis of the incident light to the orientation towards the holding part and then emit it.

4. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein, The gripping part is configured to surround the rotating part. With the steering device installed on the moving body The first light irradiation unit is configured to irradiate light onto the portion of the holding unit located above the rotating unit in the plumb direction when the rotating unit is at a reference angle position.

5. The steering device according to claim 4, wherein, The light emitted from the first light irradiation unit has an intensity distribution where the intensity decreases the further away from the optical axis the light is. The rotating part also has a second light irradiation part, which has the same structure as the first light irradiation part. The first light irradiation unit and the second light irradiation unit are configured as follows: This causes a portion of the light emitted by each light source to overlap. With the steering device mounted on the moving body, when the rotating part is at a reference angle position, the overlapping light illuminates the portion of the gripping part located on the upper side in the plumb direction relative to the rotating part.

6. The steering device according to claim 1, wherein, The steering device is installed in a vehicle capable of autonomous driving or manually driven by the user. The rotating part also has a second light irradiation part, which has the same structure as the first light irradiation part. The steering device also includes a control unit for controlling the first light irradiation unit and the second light irradiation unit. When the vehicle switches from automatic driving to manual driving, the control unit causes light to be emitted alternately from the first light irradiation unit and the second light irradiation unit.

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