Folding steering wheel of vehicle

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a vehicle folding steering wheel which comprises a framework, a folder and a base, the folder comprises an outer shell, a driving assembly, a first gear, a clutch piece and a bias device, the driving assembly, the first gear, the clutch piece and the bias device are located in the outer shell, a first profiling structure is arranged on the first gear, and a second profiling structure is arranged on the clutch piece. The bias device is used for pushing the clutch piece to enable the second profiling structure to be coupled with the first profiling structure, the output shaft penetrates through a through hole in the outer shell to be connected with the clutch piece, and the driving assembly is used for driving the first gear to rotate so as to drive the output shaft to rotate through the coupled clutch piece. In an emergency, a driver can manually pull the steering wheel to overcome the bias pressure effect of the bias pressure device on the clutch piece, meanwhile, the resistance between the first profiling structure and the second profiling structure can also be overcome, the clutch piece and the first gear are decoupled, rapid return of the steering wheel can be achieved, and the steering wheel is convenient to use. Meanwhile, transmission parts in the folder can be prevented from being damaged due to overlarge external force, and the whole folding steering wheel is protected.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present specification relates to the technical field of vehicle steering wheel, in particular to a vehicle folding steering wheel. BACKGROUND

[0002] The vehicle steering wheel is a core control component in automobile driving, which is responsible for converting the steering intention of the driver into the rotation of the wheels, directly affecting driving safety, control performance and driving experience. With the development of intelligentization in the automotive industry, the functions and characteristics of vehicles are undergoing unprecedented changes. Intelligent technology not only gives vehicles higher automatic driving capabilities, intelligent interconnection functions, and personalized driving mode settings, but also puts forward higher integration and intelligent requirements for various components of vehicles. The traditional steering wheel lacks folding function and cannot fully meet the needs of users for vehicle control convenience, space utilization flexibility and function expandability in the increasingly intelligent and diversified automobile use scenarios. SUMMARY

[0003] Therefore, the present specification provides a vehicle folding steering wheel.

[0004] The present specification provides the following technical solutions: a vehicle folding steering wheel, comprising a framework, a folder and a base, the base comprising a bottom wall for connecting with a vehicle steering column and side walls located on both sides of the bottom wall, the folder being mounted on the side walls, one end of an output shaft of the folder being connected with spokes of the framework and being configured to drive the framework to rotate between a driving position and a storage position,

[0005] The folder comprises an outer housing and a drive assembly, a first gear, a clutch and a biasing device located inside the outer housing, the first gear is provided with a first profiling structure, the clutch is provided with a second profiling structure, the biasing device is used to always push the clutch to make the second profiling structure coupled with the first profiling structure, the other end of the output shaft passes through a through hole on the outer housing and is connected with the clutch, and the drive assembly is used to drive the first gear to rotate, thereby driving the output shaft to rotate through the coupled clutch.

[0006] Wherein, when the framework is subjected to an external force exceeding a certain threshold, the biasing action of the biasing device and the resistance between the first profiling structure and the second profiling structure can be overcome, forcing the clutch to move away from the first gear, so that the clutch is decoupled from the first gear.

[0007] Preferably, the clutch member and the first gear are both ring members with central openings and coaxially arranged with the output shaft, the first gear comprises an outer ring portion with external teeth and an inner ring portion with the first profiled structure, the clutch member comprises an outer ring portion with the second profiled structure and an inner ring portion connected with the output shaft, under the action of the biasing device, the outer ring portion is pressed against the axial end face of the inner ring portion, so as to realize the coupling of the first profiled structure and the second profiled structure.

[0008] Preferably, the first profiled structure comprises a plurality of first protrusions extending in the axial direction of the inner ring portion, a plurality of first grooves are formed between the first protrusions, the second profiled structure comprises a plurality of second protrusions extending in the axial direction of the outer ring portion, a plurality of second grooves are formed between the second protrusions, under the action of the biasing device, the first protrusions are profiled matched with the second grooves, and the second protrusions are profiled matched with the first grooves.

[0009] Preferably, the biasing device comprises a biasing member and a buckle, the other end of the output shaft is connected with the buckle after passing through the inner ring portion, the biasing member is arranged between the buckle and the clutch member, and the biasing member always has a tendency to push the clutch member to move towards the first gear.

[0010] Preferably, the buckle has a radial end face, the biasing member is a coil spring, the two ends of the coil spring are respectively abutted against the radial end face and the end face of the inner ring portion, and in the final assembly position, the buckle is located inside the outer ring portion.

[0011] Preferably, the inner diameter of the inner ring portion and the outer diameter of the output shaft are connected through spline connection, so that the clutch member and the output shaft are always in synchronous rotation state.

[0012] Preferably, the outer housing comprises a containing housing close to the side wall and a cover plate, the cover plate is fixed on the profiled end face of the containing housing through fasteners, the driving assembly is an integrated assembly comprising an inner housing, the containing housing comprises a first containing portion and a second containing portion which are lower than the profiled end face, the first containing portion comprises an upper annular groove containing the outer ring portion and a middle annular groove containing the inner ring portion, and the inner housing is fixed in the second containing portion through fasteners.

[0013] Preferably, the middle annular groove is further provided with a lower arc-shaped groove, the inner ring portion is provided with an axial protrusion embedded in the lower arc-shaped groove, so as to limit the rotation stroke of the output shaft.

[0014] Preferably, the folder further includes a locking structure, and the housing further includes a third receiving portion for receiving the locking mechanism. The third receiving portion forms a channel communicating with the middle annular groove, through which the valve pin of the locking mechanism passes and engages with the pin hole on the output shaft.

[0015] Preferably, the sidewall is provided with a hollow structure for the second receiving portion and the third receiving portion to be embedded.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects that at least one technical solution adopted in the embodiments of this specification can achieve include at least:

[0017] By setting up a folding mechanism, the steering wheel can be folded. In an emergency, the driver can manually turn the steering wheel to overcome the biasing effect of the biasing device on the clutch, and at the same time overcome the resistance between the first and second contouring structures. The clutch is decoupled from the first gear, which can realize the quick return of the steering wheel. At the same time, it can prevent damage to the internal transmission components of the folding mechanism due to excessive external force, thus protecting the entire folding steering wheel. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a first-view structural diagram of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application;

[0020] Figure 2 This is a second-view structural diagram of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the frame of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application in the storage position;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the folding device of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application installed on the base;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the vehicle folding steering wheel folder provided in this application;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the drive assembly of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application installed in the housing;

[0025] Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first gear of the vehicle folding steering wheel cooperating with the drive assembly provided in this application;

[0026] Figure 8 This is an exploded structural diagram of the folding mechanism of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the housing of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the locking structure of the vehicle folding steering wheel provided in this application.

[0029] In the diagram: 1. Frame; 2. Folder; 3. Base; 4. Bottom wall; 5. Side wall; 6. Output shaft; 7. Hollow structure; 8. Housing; 9. Cover plate; 10. Middle annular groove; 11. Upper annular groove; 12. Second housing; 13. Lower arc-shaped groove; 14. Inner housing; 15. Through hole; 16. First gear; 17. Clutch; 18. Motor; 19. Bias device; 20. Second gear; 21. Drive shaft; 22. Drive turbine; 23. Valve pin; 24. Motor turbine; 25. Bias device; 26. Buckle; 27. First protrusion; 28. First groove; 29. ​​Second groove; 30. Second protrusion; 31. First key body; 32. First keyway; 33. Second key body; 34. Second keyway; 35. Pin hole; 36. Solenoid valve; 37. Axial protrusion. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of this application. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this application from the content disclosed in this specification. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. This application can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and the details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of this application. It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features in the embodiments can be combined with each other. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0032] It should be noted that various aspects of embodiments within the scope of the appended claims are described below. It will be apparent that the aspects described herein can be embodied in a wide variety of forms, and any particular structure and / or function described herein is merely illustrative. Based on this application, those skilled in the art will understand that one aspect described herein can be implemented independently of any other aspect, and two or more of these aspects can be combined in various ways. For example, any number and aspects set forth herein can be used to implement the device and / or practice the method. Additionally, this device and / or method can be implemented using structures and / or functionalities other than one or more of the aspects set forth herein.

[0033] It should also be noted that the illustrations provided in the following embodiments are only schematic representations of the basic concept of this application. The drawings only show the components related to this application and are not drawn according to the actual number, shape and size of the components in the actual implementation. In the actual implementation, the form, quantity and proportion of each component can be arbitrarily changed, and the layout of the components may also be more complex.

[0034] Furthermore, specific details are provided in the following description to facilitate a thorough understanding of the examples. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the described aspects can be practiced without these specific details.

[0035] The technical solutions provided by the various embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] like Figures 1-5 As shown, a vehicle folding steering wheel includes a frame 1, a folding mechanism 2, and a base 3. The base 3 includes a bottom wall 4 for connecting to the vehicle steering column and side walls 5 located on both sides of the bottom wall 4. The folding mechanism 2 is mounted on the side walls 5, and one end of its output shaft 6 is connected to the spokes of the frame 1, configured to drive the frame 1 to rotate between a driving position and a stowed position.

[0037] The folding device 2 includes an outer shell and a drive assembly, a first gear 16, a clutch 17, and a biasing device 19 located inside the outer shell. The first gear 16 is provided with a first contouring structure, and the clutch 17 is provided with a second contouring structure. The biasing device 19 is used to continuously push the clutch 17 to couple the second contouring structure with the first contouring structure. The other end of the output shaft 6 passes through a through hole 15 on the outer shell and is connected to the clutch 17. The drive assembly is used to drive the first gear 16 to rotate, thereby driving the output shaft 6 to rotate through the coupled clutch 17.

[0038] When the skeleton 1 is subjected to an external force exceeding a certain threshold, it can overcome the biasing effect of the biasing device 19 and the resistance between the first and second contouring structures, forcing the clutch 17 to move away from the first gear 16, thereby decoupling the clutch 17 from the first gear 16.

[0039] The base 3 of the vehicle folding steering wheel is connected to the vehicle steering column via the bottom wall 4, which serves to fix the entire steering wheel system. At the same time, the steering column can be rotated by turning the steering wheel. The folding device 2 is installed on the side wall 5 of the base 3. One end of its output shaft 6 is connected to the spokes of the frame 1, and the other end passes through the through hole 15 on the outer shell and is connected to the clutch 17.

[0040] The drive assembly inside the folding mechanism 2 serves as the power source. When the drive assembly operates, it drives the first gear 16 to rotate. Because the biasing device 19 constantly pushes the clutch 17, the second contouring structure on the clutch 17 is tightly coupled with the first contouring structure on the first gear 16. When the first gear 16 rotates, it drives the output shaft 6 to rotate synchronously through the coupled clutch 17. The output shaft 6 then drives the frame 1 to rotate, thereby realizing the conversion of the frame 1 between the driving position and the storage position. When it is necessary to store the steering wheel from the driving position to increase interior space, the drive assembly is activated, and according to the above transmission relationship, the frame 1 will rotate to the storage position; conversely, when it is necessary to use the steering wheel for driving, the drive assembly works in the opposite direction, and the frame 1 rotates to the driving position.

[0041] In an emergency, when the frame 1 needs to be adjusted from the storage position to the driving position, the driver can manually operate it. When the force on the frame 1 exceeds a certain threshold, it can overcome the biasing effect of the biasing device 19 on the clutch 17, and at the same time overcome the resistance between the first and second contouring structures, forcing the clutch 17 to move away from the first gear 16. As the clutch 17 moves, the second contouring structure and the first contouring structure are decoupled, that is, the clutch 17 is decoupled from the first gear 16. The rotation of the first gear 16 can no longer be transmitted to the output shaft 6 through the clutch 17, and thus cannot be transmitted to the frame 1. The frame 1 can move relatively freely under the action of external force, which can realize the quick return of the steering wheel, and at the same time avoid damage to the internal transmission components of the folding device 2 due to excessive external force, thus protecting the entire folding steering wheel system.

[0042] like Figures 5-8As shown, in some embodiments, both the clutch 17 and the first gear 16 are annular components with a central opening and are coaxially arranged with the output shaft 6. The first gear 16 includes an outer ring portion with external teeth and an inner ring portion with the first contouring structure. The clutch 17 includes an outer ring portion with a second contouring structure and an inner ring portion connected to the output shaft 6. Under the action of the biasing device 19, the outer ring portion is pressed against the axial end face of the inner ring portion, thereby realizing the coupling of the first contouring structure and the second contouring structure.

[0043] Both the clutch 17 and the first gear 16 are designed as annular components with a central opening and are coaxially arranged with the output shaft 6. This ensures that the clutch 17 and the first gear 16 can rotate smoothly around the axis of the output shaft 6, while also ensuring the concentricity of power transmission and reducing additional friction and vibration caused by eccentricity.

[0044] The first gear 16 consists of an outer ring portion with external teeth and an inner ring portion with a first contouring structure. The external teeth are used to mesh with gears or transmission components of the drive assembly to transmit power. The first contouring structure of the inner ring portion is the part that couples with the clutch 17. The clutch 17 includes an outer ring portion with a second contouring structure and an inner ring portion connected to the output shaft 6. The inner ring portion is connected to the output shaft 6 to ensure that the clutch 17 can drive the output shaft 6 to rotate. The second contouring structure of the outer ring portion corresponds to the first contouring structure of the inner ring portion of the first gear 16 to achieve coupling between the two. The biasing device 19 (such as a spring) always applies an axial thrust to the clutch 17. Under the action of this thrust, the outer ring portion of the clutch 17 is tightly pressed against the axial end face of the inner ring portion of the first gear 16. The first contouring structure and the second contouring structure are interlocked and tightly coupled to form an integral power transmission channel.

[0045] When the drive assembly inside the folding mechanism 2 drives the first gear 16 to rotate, the inner ring of the first gear 16 is coupled to the outer ring of the clutch 17 through a contouring structure. The rotation of the first gear 16 will directly drive the clutch 17 to rotate together. Since the inner ring of the clutch 17 is connected to the output shaft 6, the rotation of the clutch 17 will further drive the output shaft 6 to rotate. Finally, the output shaft 6 transmits power to the frame 1, causing the frame 1 to rotate between the driving position and the storage position, thus realizing the normal folding and unfolding function of the steering wheel.

[0046] like Figures 7-8As shown, in some embodiments, the first conforming structure includes a plurality of first protrusions 27 extending axially from the inner ring portion, and a plurality of first grooves 28 are formed between the plurality of first protrusions 27. The second conforming structure includes a plurality of second protrusions 30 extending axially from the outer ring portion, and a plurality of second grooves 29 are formed between the plurality of second protrusions 30. Under the action of the biasing device 19, the first protrusions 27 conformally engage with the second grooves 29, and the second protrusions 30 conformally engage with the first grooves 28.

[0047] Under the action of the biasing device 19, the outer ring of the clutch 17 is pressed against the inner ring of the first gear 16. A plurality of first protrusions 27 extending axially from the inner ring of the first gear 16 are embedded in a plurality of second grooves 29 extending axially from the outer ring of the clutch 17. Simultaneously, a plurality of second protrusions 30 from the outer ring of the clutch 17 are embedded in a plurality of first grooves 28 from the inner ring of the first gear 16. This mutual embedding and conformal fit ensures that the first gear 16 and the clutch 17 are tightly connected together, forming a single unit. When the drive assembly within the folding device 2 drives the first gear 16 to rotate, the rotational motion of the first gear 16 is directly transmitted to the clutch 17 because the first gear 16 and the clutch 17 are tightly connected through the conformal fit of the first protrusions 27 and the second grooves 29, and the second protrusions 30 and the first grooves 28.

[0048] It should be noted that the contour-fitting design of the first protrusion 27 and the second groove 29, and the second protrusion 30 and the first groove 28, ensures a very tight and precise connection between the first gear 16 and the clutch 17. Under normal operating conditions, power can be stably and efficiently transmitted from the first gear 16 to the clutch 17, and then to the output shaft 6 and the frame 1, guaranteeing the accuracy and smoothness of the steering wheel folding and unfolding operations, allowing the driver to precisely control the position of the steering wheel. In the case of manual intervention, external force forces the clutch 17 to overcome bias pressure and resistance and move away from the first gear 16 to achieve decoupling. After the external force disappears, under the action of the biasing device 19, the clutch 17 moves towards the first gear 16 to achieve coupling.

[0049] like Figures 7-8 As shown, in some embodiments, the biasing device 19 includes a biasing element 25 and a latch 26. The other end of the output shaft 6 passes through the inner ring and is connected to the latch 26. The biasing element 25 is disposed between the latch 26 and the clutch 17. The biasing element 25 always has the tendency to push the clutch 17 toward the direction of the first gear 16.

[0050] The other end of the output shaft 6 passes through the inner ring of the clutch 17 and connects to the latch 26, ensuring that the latch 26, output shaft 6, and clutch 17 have a certain connection and constraint in the axial direction. A biasing member 25 is positioned between the latch 26 and the clutch 17, and the biasing member 25 has a tendency to push the clutch 17 towards the first gear 16. Under the action of the biasing member 25, the outer ring of the clutch 17 is tightly pressed against the axial end face of the inner ring of the first gear 16, so that the first contouring structure on the first gear 16 (such as the first protrusion 27 and the first groove 28) and the second contouring structure on the clutch 17 (such as the second protrusion 30 and the second groove 29) are coupled together to form a stable power transmission structure. The biasing member 25 continuously pushes the clutch 17, ensuring that the first gear 16 and the clutch 17 maintain a good coupling state under normal operating conditions.

[0051] It should be noted that the buckle 26 includes an annular piece, with a plurality of hooks extending from the inner annular surface of the annular piece. The annular piece is at least partially embedded in the inner ring portion, and the plurality of hooks extend obliquely away from the first gear 16. The other end of the output shaft 6 extends outward to form a stop portion, and the plurality of hooks abut against the end face of the stop portion. When installing the buckle 26 onto the output shaft 6, the annular piece is first partially embedded into the inner ring portion. Since the annular piece has a plurality of hooks extending obliquely away from the first gear 16 from its inner annular surface, the other end of the output shaft 6 needs to gradually insert itself while overcoming the elastic resistance of the hooks during installation. When the output shaft 6 is inserted into the appropriate position, the stop portion formed by the outward extension of the outer periphery of the other end of the output shaft 6 will abut against the end face of the hook. Under its own elasticity, the hook will tightly abut against the stop portion, thereby firmly fixing the buckle 26 on the output shaft 6. At the same time, through the embedded cooperation between the annular piece and the inner ring of the clutch 17, the buckle 26, the output shaft 6 and the clutch 17 form a relatively stable overall structure.

[0052] like Figure 5 and Figures 7-8 As shown, in some embodiments, the latch 26 has a radial end face, the biasing member 25 is a helical spring, and the two ends of the helical spring abut against the radial end face and the inner ring end face, respectively. In the final assembly position, the latch 26 is located inside the outer ring. The continuous preload provided by the helical spring ensures that the clutch 17 and the first gear 16 maintain a good coupling state under normal operating conditions. This stable coupling allows power to be accurately and efficiently transmitted from the first gear 16 to the clutch 17, and then to the output shaft 6 and the frame 1, ensuring the precision and reliability of the steering wheel folding and unfolding operation. The latch 26 being located inside the outer ring makes the entire folding steering wheel system more compact and space-saving.

[0053] likeFigures 7-8 As shown, in some embodiments, the inner diameter of the inner ring portion and the outer diameter of the output shaft 6 are splined together, so that the clutch 17 and the output shaft 6 are always in a state of synchronous rotation. A plurality of first key bodies 31 are formed extending radially within the inner ring portion, and a plurality of first keyways 32 are formed between the plurality of first key bodies 31. A plurality of second key bodies 33 corresponding to the plurality of first keyways 32 are formed extending radially outward from the outer periphery of the output shaft 6, and a plurality of second keyways 34 corresponding to the plurality of first key bodies 31 are formed between the plurality of second key bodies 33, so that the clutch 17 and the output shaft 6 are always in a state of synchronous rotation. When installing the clutch 17 onto the output shaft 6, since the inner diameter of the inner ring and the outer diameter of the output shaft 6 are designed with a spline fit, the operator only needs to push the clutch 17 along the axial direction of the output shaft 6. This causes the first key bodies 31 formed by the radial extension of the inner ring to be inserted into the second keyways 34 formed by the radial extension of the outer circumference of the output shaft 6. At the same time, the second key bodies 33 on the output shaft 6 will also be inserted into the first keyways 32 formed between the first key bodies 31 in the inner ring of the clutch 17. When the first key bodies 31 and the second key bodies 33 are fully embedded in the corresponding keyways, the clutch 17 and the output shaft 6 achieve precise positioning and engagement in both the axial and radial directions, forming a stable connection structure that ensures subsequent synchronous rotation.

[0054] like Figures 5-8 As shown, in some embodiments, the outer casing includes a receiving housing 8 and a cover plate 9 near the side wall 5. The cover plate 9 is fixed to the contour end face of the receiving housing 8 by fasteners. The drive assembly is an integrated assembly including an inner housing 14. The receiving housing 8 includes a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion 12 lower than the contour end face. The first receiving portion includes an upper annular groove 11 for receiving the outer ring portion and a middle annular groove 10 for receiving the inner ring portion. The inner housing 14 is fixed to the second receiving portion 12 by fasteners.

[0055] The outer shell consists of a housing 8 near the side wall 5 and a cover plate 9. During assembly, each internal component (such as the first gear 16, clutch 17, etc.) is first placed in the corresponding position of the housing 8, and then the cover plate 9 is fixed to the contour end face of the housing 8 with fasteners (such as bolts, screws, etc.) to form a relatively closed space, which provides protection for the internal components and also ensures the stability of the overall structure.

[0056] The drive assembly is an integrated component including an inner housing 14. The housing 8 is designed with a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion 12 that are lower than the contour end face. The first receiving portion includes an upper annular groove 11 and a lower annular groove, which are used to receive the outer ring portion of the first gear 16 and the inner ring portion of the clutch 17, respectively. When installing the drive assembly, its inner housing 14 is fixed to the second receiving portion 12 with fasteners. This regional and hierarchical installation design allows the various components to be rationally arranged in space without interfering with each other, while also achieving a reliable connection through fasteners.

[0057] By dividing the outer shell into a receiving housing 8 and a cover plate 9, and designing different levels of receiving sections within the receiving housing 8, the compact installation of each component is achieved, making full use of limited space. This makes the entire folding steering wheel system more compact while meeting functional requirements, facilitating installation and use within the limited space of a vehicle. The zonal and layered installation method, along with the fastener fixation, ensures the relative positional accuracy between each component. During power transmission, it can accurately transfer power from one component to another, reducing power loss and transmission errors, making the folding and unfolding operation of the steering wheel more precise and smooth, and improving driving comfort and convenience.

[0058] The drive assembly specifically includes a motor 18, which is communicatively connected to the vehicle controller to control the start or stop of the motor 18. The motor 18 is connected to the first gear 16 via a reduction steering mechanism. The reduction steering mechanism includes a motor turbine 24, a second gear 20, and a drive turbine 22. The motor turbine 24 is connected to the output end of the motor 18, and the second gear 20 meshes with the motor turbine 24. The second gear 20 is connected to the drive turbine 22 via a drive shaft 21, and the drive turbine 22 is connected to the first gear 16. The motor turbine 24 rotates around a first axis, the second gear 20 rotates around a second axis, and the first gear 16 rotates around a third axis. The first, second, and third axes are perpendicular to each other. The inner housing 14 has a mounting groove for mounting the motor 18, and the motor 18 is at least partially embedded in the mounting groove. The upper and lower sides of the inner housing 14 have parallel mounting plates extending toward the drive shaft 21. The two ends of the drive shaft 21 are mounted on the mounting plates via bearings.

[0059] Motor 18 is communicatively connected to the vehicle controller. The vehicle controller sends corresponding electrical signals to motor 18 based on the vehicle's driving status and driver commands (such as folding or unfolding the steering wheel). After motor 18 starts, its output drives motor turbine 24 to rotate around the first axis. Because motor turbine 24 meshes with second gear 20, second gear 20 rotates around a second axis perpendicular to the first axis. This meshing transmission not only transmits power but also changes the direction of power transmission. Second gear 20 is connected to drive turbine 22 via drive shaft 21. Drive shaft 21 transmits the rotational motion of second gear 20 to drive turbine 22, causing drive turbine 22 to also rotate around the second axis. Drive turbine 22 is connected to first gear 16, and the rotation of drive turbine 22 drives first gear 16 to rotate around a third axis perpendicular to both the first and second axes. Through these three stages of transmission, the power output by motor 18, after deceleration and steering, is finally transmitted to first gear 16. The inner housing 14 has a mounting groove for mounting the motor 18, and the motor 18 is at least partially embedded in the mounting groove. This mounting method allows the motor 18 to be securely fixed to the inner housing 14. The upper and lower sides of the inner housing 14 have parallel mounting plates extending towards the drive shaft 21. Both ends of the drive shaft 21 are mounted on the mounting plates by bearings. The bearings support the drive shaft 21, reduce the frictional resistance of the drive shaft 21 during rotation, and enable the drive shaft 21 to rotate smoothly and efficiently. At the same time, the parallel design of the mounting plates ensures the installation accuracy of the drive shaft 21.

[0060] like Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the middle annular groove 10 is further provided with a lower arc-shaped groove 13. The inner ring portion is provided with an axial protrusion 37, which is embedded in the lower arc-shaped groove 13 to limit the rotational stroke of the output shaft 6. The lower arc-shaped groove 13 is formed by recessing within a specific angle range along the circumferential direction of the middle annular groove 10. An axial protrusion is provided on the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring portion, protruding a certain length along the axial direction. When the inner ring portion is installed in the middle annular groove 10, the axial protrusion will be embedded in the lower arc-shaped groove 13. Because the lower arc-shaped groove 13 has a certain angular range limitation in the circumferential direction, when the output shaft 6 rotates with the clutch 17, the axial protrusion of the inner ring will move in the lower arc-shaped groove 13. When the axial protrusion moves to the extreme position at one end of the lower arc-shaped groove 13, it will be blocked by the end wall of the lower arc-shaped groove 13 and cannot continue to rotate in that direction, thereby limiting the further rotation of the clutch 17 and the output shaft 6 connected to it. At this time, the frame 1 is in the driving position or the storage position.

[0061] like Figure 6 and Figure 10As shown, in some embodiments, the folding device 2 further includes a locking structure for locking the output shaft 6 when the frame 1 is in the driving or stowed position. The housing 8 also includes a third receiving portion for receiving the locking mechanism. The third receiving portion forms a channel communicating with the middle annular groove 10, through which the valve pin 23 of the locking mechanism passes and engages with the pin hole 35 on the output shaft 6. The locking mechanism includes a solenoid valve 36 that is communicatively connected to the vehicle controller. When the frame 1 is in the driving or stowed position, the valve pin 23 of the solenoid valve 36 can extend into the pin hole 35 through the channel.

[0062] When the frame 1 is moved to the driving or stowed position, the vehicle controller sends an electrical signal to the solenoid valve 36. The solenoid valve 36 actuates, causing the valve pin 23 to extend through the channel into the pin hole 35 on the output shaft 6 under electromagnetic force. Once the valve pin 23 is fully inserted into the pin hole 35, the output shaft 6 is locked and cannot continue to rotate, thus locking the frame 1 in the driving or stowed position. When it is necessary to remove the frame 1 from the driving or stowed position, the vehicle controller sends a reverse electrical signal to the solenoid valve 36, causing the valve pin 23 to exit from the pin hole 35 of the output shaft 6 and return to its initial position through the channel. The output shaft 6 is then unlocked and can rotate freely, allowing the frame 1 to be folded or unfolded.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the sidewall 5 is provided with a hollow structure 7 for the second receiving portion 12 and the third receiving portion to be embedded. The hollow structure 7 on the sidewall 5 is designed according to the outline of the second receiving portion 12 and the third receiving portion, so that the second receiving portion 12 and the third receiving portion can be perfectly embedded in the hollow structure 7 of the sidewall 5. The hollow structure 7 of the sidewall 5 provides reasonable installation space for the second receiving portion 12 and the third receiving portion. Through this embedded installation method, the vertical and horizontal space of the sidewall 5 is fully utilized, thereby reducing the space occupied by the folding device 2.

[0064] The same or similar parts between the various embodiments in this specification can be referred to mutually. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, the method embodiments described later are relatively simple in description since they correspond to the system, and relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions in the system embodiments.

[0065] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle folding steering wheel, comprising a frame, a folding mechanism, and a base, the base including a bottom wall for connection to a vehicle steering column and side walls located on both sides of the bottom wall, the folding mechanism being mounted on the side walls, one end of its output shaft being connected to the spokes of the frame and configured to drive the frame to rotate between a driving position and a stowed position, characterized in that, The folding device includes an outer shell and a drive assembly, a first gear, a clutch, and a biasing device located inside the outer shell. The first gear is provided with a first contouring structure, and the clutch is provided with a second contouring structure. The biasing device is used to continuously push the clutch so that the second contouring structure is coupled with the first contouring structure. The other end of the output shaft passes through a through hole in the outer shell and is connected to the clutch. The drive assembly is used to drive the first gear to rotate, thereby driving the output shaft to rotate through the coupled clutch. When the skeleton is subjected to an external force exceeding a certain threshold, it can overcome the biasing effect of the biasing device and the resistance between the first and second contouring structures, forcing the clutch to move away from the first gear, thereby decoupling the clutch from the first gear.

2. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the clutch and the first gear are annular components with a central opening and are coaxially arranged with the output shaft. The first gear includes an outer ring portion with external teeth and an inner ring portion with the first contour structure. The clutch includes an outer ring portion with a second contour structure and an inner ring portion connected to the output shaft. Under the action of the biasing device, the outer ring portion is pressed against the axial end face of the inner ring portion, thereby realizing the coupling of the first contour structure and the second contour structure.

3. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first conforming structure includes a plurality of first protrusions extending axially along the inner ring portion, and a plurality of first grooves are formed between the plurality of first protrusions. The second conforming structure includes a plurality of second protrusions extending axially along the outer ring portion, and a plurality of second grooves are formed between the plurality of second protrusions. Under the action of the biasing device, the first protrusions conformally engage with the second grooves, and the second protrusions conformally engage with the first grooves.

4. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 3, characterized in that, The biasing device includes a biasing component and a buckle. The other end of the output shaft passes through the inner ring and is connected to the buckle. The biasing component is disposed between the buckle and the clutch component. The biasing component always has the tendency to push the clutch component toward the direction of the first gear.

5. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 4, characterized in that, The buckle has a radial end face, the biasing element is a helical spring, the two ends of the helical spring respectively abut against the radial end face and the inner ring end face, and in the final assembly position the buckle is located inside the outer ring.

6. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the inner ring and the outer diameter of the output shaft are connected by a spline, so that the clutch and the output shaft are always in a state of synchronous rotation.

7. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, The outer casing includes a receiving shell and a cover plate near the side wall. The cover plate is fixed to the contour end face of the receiving shell by fasteners. The drive assembly is an integrated assembly including an inner shell. The receiving shell includes a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion below the contour end face. The first receiving portion includes an upper annular groove for receiving the outer ring portion and a middle annular groove for receiving the inner ring portion. The inner shell is fixed to the second receiving portion by fasteners.

8. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The middle annular groove is further provided with a lower arc-shaped groove, and the inner ring is provided with an axial protrusion that is embedded in the lower arc-shaped groove to limit the rotational stroke of the output shaft.

9. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 7, characterized in that, The folder also includes a locking structure, and the housing further includes a third receiving portion for receiving the locking mechanism. The third receiving portion forms a channel communicating with the middle annular groove, through which the valve pin of the locking mechanism passes and engages with the pin hole on the output shaft.

10. The vehicle folding steering wheel according to claim 9, characterized in that, The side wall is provided with a hollow structure for the second and third receiving parts to be embedded.

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