Deformable steering wheel

Abstract

A deformable steering wheel comprises an air bag and function button assembly, a main shaft, a left handle assembly, a right handle assembly, a handle connecting arm, a linear moving assembly, a rack, a steering gear, a handle gear, a handle angle adjusting device and a handle gear cover. The air bag and function button assembly comprises a diameter increasing button, a diameter reducing button, a forward angle adjusting button, a backward angle adjusting button and a mode switching button. The diameter increasing button can control the left handle and the right handle to move outwards to increase the diameter of the steering wheel, the diameter reducing button can control the left handle and the right handle to move inwards to reduce the diameter of the steering wheel, the forward angle adjusting button can control the left handle and the right handle to rotate forwards, and the backward angle adjusting button can control the left handle and the right handle to rotate backwards. The mode switching button can control the left handle and the right handle to be switched between a conventional driving mode and a fully-folded automatic driving mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to automobile steering wheels, and more particularly to deformable steering wheels. Background Technology

[0002] Autonomous driving technology is a developing trend, but the large space occupied by traditional steering wheels hinders the realization of autonomous driving. Therefore, changing or folding the steering wheel shape may be necessary for autonomous driving. The new deformable steering wheel has a simple structure and small size, and its shape can be changed according to different drivers' driving habits. Furthermore, the new variable steering wheel structure can provide more steering wheel modes and easily change the length and angle of the steering wheel handle.

[0003] CN216684570U discloses a universal automotive steering wheel suitable for both manned and unmanned driving. It can adjust the steering wheel according to the driving mode, allowing the grip to be turned while keeping the center seat stationary in manned driving mode, and raising the center seat and retracting the grip in unmanned driving mode. This significantly saves interior space and improves driving safety and comfort. While this steering wheel has a simple structure, it cannot be folded and is relatively large.

[0004] CN114394149A discloses a folding steering wheel, including a body; fixed components are connected to the left and right ends of the body, and the upper and lower ends of the fixed components are connected to folding components. A power mechanism is installed inside the body, and the power mechanism causes the folding components to rotate and move towards the body through the power components. The main body of the fixed component is connected to the body, and its end is vertically connected to the middle of the fixed rim. The two ends of the fixed rim are connected to the folding components to form the left and right rims, respectively. This steering wheel has a simple structure, but the range of steering wheel deformation is limited.

[0005] KR102118012B1 discloses a variable steering wheel and its operating method. According to the invention, the variable steering wheel includes a central hub connected to the vehicle's steering column and a grip unit connected to a wheel hub via spokes. It includes: a sensing unit for tracking the position of a user's hand around the variable steering wheel; and an actuator unit for moving the grip unit to the position of the hand tracked by the sensing unit by moving the spokes relative to the central hub. The handle angle of this variable steering wheel can be changed, but its shape cannot be changed.

[0006] The information disclosed in the background section of this invention is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of the invention and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that such information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a simple steering wheel whose shape can be changed according to different driving styles.

[0008] Another objective of this invention is to provide a steering wheel whose diameter can be changed according to the needs of different drivers.

[0009] Another objective of this invention is to provide a steering wheel whose handle length and angle can be changed according to driving habits.

[0010] Another objective of this invention is to provide a steering wheel with a fully foldable handle, suitable for autonomous driving.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention provides a deformable steering wheel, including: a steering mechanism mounted on the lower part of the main shaft for driving the wheels to steer;

[0012] Left handlebar assembly and right handlebar assembly;

[0013] The handle connecting arm has a centrally located spindle mounting hole and a linear guide groove;

[0014] A linear motion assembly capable of linear movement along the handle connecting arm;

[0015] The left handle assembly and the right handle assembly are pivotally connected to the linear motion assembly by passing through linear guide slots at both ends of the handle connecting arm.

[0016] In the aforementioned deformable steering wheel, preferably:

[0017] The left handle assembly has an arc-shaped structure, including a left handle body and a left handle shaft. The left handle shaft is fixedly installed in the center of the left handle body and perpendicular to its arc-shaped plane.

[0018] The right handle assembly has an arc-shaped structure, including a right handle body and a right handle shaft. The right handle shaft is fixedly installed in the center of the left handle body and perpendicular to its arc-shaped plane.

[0019] The linear motion assembly includes a linear motion device and a linear motion block, wherein the linear motion device is mounted on the linear motion block;

[0020] The left handle shaft and the right handle shaft respectively pass through the linear guide grooves at both ends of the handle connecting arm and are pivotally connected to the linear moving block.

[0021] In the aforementioned deformable steering wheel, preferably:

[0022] The handle connecting arm also has a track cavity extending from both ends toward the middle, and the linear guide groove passes through the upper and lower walls of the track cavity;

[0023] A rack is fixedly installed at the bottom of the track cavity at both ends of the handle connecting arm;

[0024] The linear motion device has a rotatable moving assembly gear that meshes with the rack.

[0025] Preferably, the deformable steering wheel also includes an airbag and a function button assembly, which is installed at the upper end of the main shaft and has a multi-function button. The multi-function button includes an increasing diameter button and a decreasing diameter button. The increasing diameter button can control the gear of the moving assembly to rotate forward, so that the linear moving assembly moves outward; the decreasing diameter button can control the gear of the moving assembly to rotate in reverse, so that the linear moving assembly moves inward.

[0026] The aforementioned deformable steering wheel may further include an angle adjustment mechanism, which includes:

[0027] Two handle gears are respectively fixedly installed on the lower part of the left handle shaft and the right handle shaft;

[0028] Two handle adjustment devices, each having an adjustment gear, are fixedly installed in the linear moving block. The adjustment gears mesh with the two handle gears respectively.

[0029] Two handle gear covers are respectively fixedly installed on the lower ends of the left handle shaft and the right handle shaft, thereby fixing the handle gear in the axial direction;

[0030] The multi-function button further includes a forward adjustment button and a backward adjustment button. The forward adjustment button is used to drive the adjustment gears of the two handle adjustment devices to rotate forward, thereby driving the left handle body and the right handle body to rotate forward by a certain angle. The backward adjustment button is used to drive the adjustment gears of the two handle adjustment devices to rotate in reverse, thereby driving the left handle body and the right handle body to rotate backward by a certain angle.

[0031] The multi-function button may also include a mode switching button, which is used to control the deformable steering wheel to switch between a normal driving mode and an automatic driving mode.

[0032] In normal driving mode, the airbag and function button assembly is lowered to the lowest position; in autonomous driving mode, the airbag and function button assembly is raised to the highest position, and the left handle body and the right handle body move inward and rotate forward until they are in a straight line with the handle connecting arm and are located between the airbag and function button assembly and the handle connecting arm.

[0033] Preferably, the airbag and function button assembly further has a convex shaft extending downward from the center of the lower surface, the convex shaft having a convex shaft hole extending perpendicular to the lower surface of the airbag and function button assembly, and the inner surface of the convex shaft hole having an axially extending slide key.

[0034] The upper end of the spindle has an axially arranged keyway, and both the upper and lower ends of the keyway have limiting structures. The keyway can slide in the keyway within the range defined by the limiting structures.

[0035] Preferably, both the front and rear ends of the left handle body are hollow tube structures, the left handle body has a transparent left sliding groove extending along its arc-shaped inner side, the left handle assembly also includes a left handle front extension and a left handle rear extension that can slide and extend in the hollow tube structure, both the left handle front extension and the left handle rear extension are equipped with a left toggle button, the left toggle button passes through the left sliding groove and protrudes from the surface of the left handle body;

[0036] Both ends of the right handle body are hollow tube structures. The right handle body has a transparent right sliding groove extending along its arc-shaped inner side. The right handle assembly also includes a right handle front extension and a right handle rear extension that can slide and extend in the hollow tube structure. Both the right handle front extension and the right handle rear extension are equipped with a right toggle button. The right toggle button passes through the right sliding groove and protrudes from the surface of the right handle body.

[0037] The steering system may also include:

[0038] The top cover has a shaft hole for the main shaft to pass through during installation;

[0039] A steering gear, which is fixedly mounted on the lower part of the main shaft;

[0040] An end cap assembly is fixedly installed at the lower end of the main shaft and is equipped with a magnet;

[0041] A PCB assembly having an angle sensor mounted facing the magnet and used to sense the rotation angle of the spindle;

[0042] A steering force simulation device having a feedback gear that meshes with the steering gear, thereby receiving a steering torque signal and performing steering feedback;

[0043] The bottom cover, the PCB assembly and the steering force simulation device are mounted in the bottom cover; and

[0044] A connector that connects the upper cover and the bottom cover.

[0045] Preferably, the airbag and function button assembly further includes a steering angle indicator for indicating the vehicle's steering angle.

[0046] Preferably, there are two racks in each track cavity, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the linear guide groove; and there are two moving assembly gears on each linear moving block, which mesh with the racks respectively.

[0047] Preferably, the airbag and function button assembly further includes a mode indicator light, which is arranged around the airbag and is used to change color according to the mode of the deformable steering wheel or according to the change of steering wheel diameter or handle angle.

[0048] The assembly method of the deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention includes the following steps:

[0049] The racks are fixedly installed at the bottom of the track cavities at both ends of the handle connecting arm;

[0050] The linear motion assembly is installed in the track cavities at both ends of the handle connecting arm, and the gear of the motion assembly meshes with the rack;

[0051] The left and right handle shafts pass through the linear guide slots at both ends of the handle connecting arm and can be pivotally connected to the linear moving block.

[0052] The two handle gears are fixedly installed on the lower part of the left handle shaft and the right handle shaft, respectively;

[0053] Install the handle adjustment device so that it meshes with the handle gear;

[0054] The two handle gear covers are respectively fixedly installed at the lower ends of the left handle shaft and the right handle shaft;

[0055] Pass the spindle through the spindle mounting hole and the top cover of the handle connecting arm, and fix the steering gear on the lower part of the spindle;

[0056] The end cap assembly is fixedly installed at the lower end of the spindle;

[0057] The PCB assembly and steering force simulation device are mounted on the bottom cover;

[0058] Connect the top cover and the bottom cover with connectors; and

[0059] The airbag and function button assembly is mounted on the upper end of the spindle.

[0060] A method for adjusting a deformable steering wheel according to another embodiment of the present invention is provided, the method comprising the following steps:

[0061] In normal driving mode, pressing the mode switch button on the multi-function button enters the autonomous driving mode, raising the airbag and function button assembly to its highest position. The left and right handlebar bodies move inward and rotate forward until they are aligned with the handlebar connecting arm and positioned between the airbag and function button assembly and the handlebar connecting arm; or

[0062] In autonomous driving mode, pressing the mode switch button on the multi-function button will enter the normal driving mode, causing the left and right handle bodies to move outward to their maximum diameter and rotate backward to a position symmetrical to the handle connecting arm, while the airbag and function button assembly is lowered to the lowest position.

[0063] It may also include the following steps:

[0064] In normal driving mode, pressing the diameter-increasing button causes the left and right handlebar bodies to move outwards; or

[0065] In normal driving mode, pressing the reducer button causes the left and right handlebar bodies to move inward.

[0066] It may also include the following steps:

[0067] In normal driving mode, pressing the forward angle adjustment button will rotate the left and right handlebars forward by a certain angle; or

[0068] In normal driving mode, pressing the rearward angle adjustment button will cause the left and right handlebars to rotate backward by a certain angle.

[0069] It may also include the following steps:

[0070] In normal driving mode, push the left lever forward or backward to extend or shorten the front or rear extension of the left handlebar relative to the main body of the left handlebar.

[0071] In normal driving mode, pushing the right lever forward or backward will extend or shorten the front and rear extensions of the right handlebar relative to the main body of the right handlebar.

[0072] The deformable steering wheel and its adjustment method according to the present invention have the following beneficial effects:

[0073] This design provides a new structural form for changing the shape of the steering wheel (linear movement and rotation), and also allows for changes in the steering wheel diameter, as well as the length and angle of the steering wheel handle, to adapt to different modes and convenience requirements. Furthermore,

[0074] Rotation angle visualization and turn mode light visualization, and

[0075] The steering wheel can also be folded completely into a compact mode, which greatly saves space in autonomous driving mode, making the interior space simple and comfortable.

[0076] It should be understood that the term “vehicle” or “of a vehicle” or other similar terms used herein generally include motor vehicles, such as passenger vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs), public vehicles, trucks, various commercial vehicles, vessels including various boats and ships, aircraft, etc., and includes hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g., fuels derived from non-gasoline energy sources).

[0077] The methods and apparatus of the present invention have other features and advantages that will be apparent from or will be set forth in detail in the accompanying drawings and following detailed description, which together serve to explain the particular principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0078] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0079] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0080] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an airbag and function button assembly for a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0081] Figure 3A This is a diagram showing the multi-function button.

[0082] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram showing the steering angle indicator.

[0083] Figure 3C An exploded perspective view showing the assembly relationship between the spindle, airbag and function button assembly, and end cap assembly.

[0084] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the handle connecting arm of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 5 The linear motion assembly and angle adjustment mechanism of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0086] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0087] Figure 6A For along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the AA line.

[0088] Figure 6B For along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the BB line.

[0089] Figure 7 The steering mechanism structure of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0090] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention in a normal driving mode is shown.

[0091] Figure 9 A top view of a deformable steering wheel in compact mode according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0092] Figure 10 A front view of a deformable steering wheel in compact mode according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0093] Figure 11 A top view of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention in its minimum diameter mode is shown.

[0094] Figure 12 A top view of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention in a forward adjustment mode is shown.

[0095] Figure 13 A top view of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention in rearward adjustment mode is shown.

[0096] Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 14D , Figure 14E , Figure 14F , Figure 14G as well as Figure 14H Different extended states of the left handle assembly 3 and right handle assembly 4 of the deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown exemplarily.

[0097] Figure label:

[0098] Airbag and function button assembly 1

[0099] Airbag 1-1

[0100] Multifunction button 1-2

[0101] Increasing Diameter Buttons 1-21

[0102] Reduction button 1-22

[0103] Forward Angle Adjustment Buttons 1-23

[0104] Rear Angle Adjustment Buttons 1-24

[0105] Mode switching buttons 1-25

[0106] Steering Angle Indicator 1-3

[0107] Mode indicator lights 1-4

[0108] convex shaft 1-5

[0109] convex shaft holes 1-6

[0110] Slide keys 1-7

[0111] Spindle 2

[0112] Slide keyway 2-1

[0113] Limiting structure 2-2

[0114] Card slots 2-3

[0115] Left handle assembly 3

[0116] Left handle front extension 3-1

[0117] Left handle body 3-2

[0118] Left handle rear extension 3-3

[0119] Left handle shaft 3-4

[0120] Left sliding groove 3-5

[0121] Left toggle switch 3-6

[0122] Right handle assembly 4

[0123] Right handle front extension 4-1

[0124] Right handle body 4-2

[0125] Right handle rear extension 4-3

[0126] Right handle shaft 4-4

[0127] Right sliding groove 4-5

[0128] Right toggle switch 4-6

[0129] Handle connecting arm 5

[0130] Spindle mounting hole 5-1

[0131] Track cavity 5-2

[0132] Linear guide groove 5-3

[0133] Spindle boss 5-4

[0134] Linear motion assembly 6

[0135] Linear moving device 6-1

[0136] Linear moving block 6-2

[0137] Rack 7

[0138] Handle Gear 8

[0139] Handle Angle Adjustment Device 9

[0140] Handle Gear Cover 10

[0141] Connector 11

[0142] Top cover 12

[0143] Steering gear 13

[0144] End cap assembly 14

[0145] Magnet 14-1

[0146] 14-2 Card Connector

[0147] PCB assembly 15

[0148] Angle sensor 15-1

[0149] Steering force simulation device 16

[0150] Feedback Gear 16-1

[0151] Bottom cover 17.

[0152] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and illustrate various features of the basic principles of the invention in a simplified manner. Specific design features of the invention disclosed herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positioning, and shapes, will be determined in part by the specific purpose and environment of use.

[0153] In these accompanying drawings, and in the multiple figures throughout the drawings, reference numerals refer to the same or equivalent parts of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0154] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These exemplary embodiments are examples and can be implemented in various different forms by those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0155] Figure 1A schematic diagram of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0156] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0157] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an airbag and function button assembly 1, a main shaft 2, a left handle assembly 3, a right handle assembly 4, a handle connecting arm 5, a linear motion assembly 6, and a rack 7.

[0158] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an airbag and function button assembly 1 for a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0159] like Figure 3 As shown, the airbag and function button assembly 1 includes a centrally located airbag 1-1 and multi-function buttons 1-2 located on the left and right sides. One side (e.g., the left side) of the multi-function button 1-2 controls the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4. The other side of the multi-function button 1-2 can be used for any other specially defined functions.

[0160] Figure 3A An enlarged view of the airbag and multifunction button assembly of the deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0161] like Figure 3A As shown, the multi-function button 1-2 is a group of multiple buttons, including an increasing diameter button 1-21, a decreasing diameter button 1-22, a forward angle adjustment button 1-23, a backward angle adjustment button 1-24, and a mode switching button 1-25. The increasing diameter button 1-21 is used to increase the rotation radius of the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 relative to the spindle 2, and the decreasing diameter button 1-22 is used to decrease the rotation radius of the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 relative to the spindle 2. The forward angle adjustment button 1-23 is used to adjust the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 forward by a certain angle, and the backward angle adjustment button 1-24 is used to adjust the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 backward by a certain angle.

[0162] Regardless of how the multi-function buttons 1-2 are adjusted, the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 are always symmetrical with respect to the center of the steering wheel.

[0163] Mode switching buttons 1-25 are used to switch the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 between normal driving mode and automatic driving mode. In normal driving mode, the positions of the left and right handles of the steering wheel are the same as those of a normal steering wheel. In automatic driving mode, the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 of the steering wheel are folded to fit tightly against the handle connecting arm 5, forming a compact mode.

[0164] The airbag and function button assembly 1 may also have a steering angle indicator 1-3, which is located above and in front of the airbag 1-1 to indicate the steering angle of the steering wheel. Figure 3B An enlarged view of the steering angle indicator of the airbag and function button assembly of the deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0165] The airbag and function button assembly 1 may also have mode indicator lights 1-4. The mode indicator lights 1-4 may be configured to surround the airbag 1-1 and change color in response to changes in steering wheel mode or according to changes in steering wheel diameter or handle angle.

[0166] Figure 3C An exploded perspective view showing the assembly relationship between the main spindle 2, the airbag and function button assembly 1, and the end cover assembly 14.

[0167] like Figure 3C As shown, the airbag and function button assembly 1 also has a convex shaft 1-5 extending downward from the center of the lower surface. The convex shaft 1-5 has a convex shaft hole 1-6 extending perpendicular to the lower surface of the airbag and function button assembly 1. The inner surface of the convex shaft hole 1-6 has an axially extending slide key 1-7. In the example embodiment, the number of slide keys 1-7 is two.

[0168] The airbag and function button assembly 1 is mounted on the upper end of the spindle 2. The upper end of the spindle 2 has an axially arranged keyway 2-1, with limiting structures 2-2 (e.g., limiting blocks) at both the upper and lower ends of the keyway 2-1. The number and position of the keyways 2-1 correspond to the number and position of the slide keys 1-7, allowing the slide keys 1-7 to slide within the keyway 2-1 within the range defined by the limiting structures 2-2. Therefore, the airbag and function button assembly 1 can move up and down along the spindle 2.

[0169] The lower end of the spindle 2 has an axially arranged groove 2-3. The end cover assembly 14 has a snap-fit ​​block 14-2. By engaging the snap-fit ​​block 14-2 with the groove 2-3, the end cover assembly 14 can be fixedly installed at the lower end of the spindle 2.

[0170] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the handle connecting arm of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0171] like Figure 4 As shown, the handle connecting arm 5 has a spindle mounting hole 5-1 and an upwardly protruding spindle boss 5-4 at its center. The spindle mounting hole 5-1 extends vertically through the handle connecting arm 5 and its spindle boss 5-4. The spindle 2 is fixedly mounted in the spindle mounting hole 5-1.

[0172] On both sides of the spindle mounting hole 5-1, a linearly extending track cavity 5-2 is formed inside the handle connecting arm 5. A rack 7 is mounted at the bottom of the track cavity 5-2. The upper and lower walls of the track cavity 5-2 have vertically penetrating linear guide grooves 5-3 extending along the track cavity 5-2. For example, two racks 7 are installed in each track cavity 5-2, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the linear guide groove (5-3).

[0173] Figure 5 The linear motion assembly and angle adjustment mechanism of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0174] like Figure 5 As shown, the linear motion assembly 6 includes a linear motion device 6-1 and a linear motion block 6-2. The linear motion device 6-1 has a rotatable motion assembly gear. The linear motion device 6-1 is mounted on the linear motion block 6-2. The motion assembly gear is disposed in the track cavity 5-2 and meshes with the rack 7, allowing the linear motion assembly 6 to move along the handle connecting arm 5. When there are two racks 7, there are correspondingly two motion assembly gears, each meshing with a corresponding rack 7. The increasing diameter button 1-21 can control the rotation of the motion assembly gear in the forward direction, causing the linear motion assembly 6 to move outward; the decreasing diameter button 1-22 can control the rotation of the motion assembly gear in the reverse direction, causing the linear motion assembly 6 to move inward.

[0175] like Figure 2 As shown, the left handle assembly 3 includes a left handle body 3-2 and a left handle shaft 3-4. The left handle body 3-2 is arc-shaped, and one end of the left handle shaft 3-4 is fixedly mounted in the center of the left handle body 3-2 and extends vertically into the plane of the arc. The left handle shaft 3-4 passes through the linear guide groove 5-3 on the left side of the handle connecting arm 5 and is pivotally connected to the linear moving block 6-2 on the left side. Therefore, the left handle assembly 3 can move along the handle connecting arm 5.

[0176] The right handle assembly 4 includes a right handle body 4-2 and a right handle shaft 4-4. The right handle body 4-2 is arc-shaped, and one end of the right handle shaft 4-4 is fixedly mounted in the center of the right handle body 4-2 and extends vertically in the plane of the arc. The right handle shaft 4-4 passes through the linear guide groove 5-3 on the right side of the handle connecting arm 5 and is pivotally connected to the linear moving block 6-2 on the right side. Therefore, the right handle assembly 4 can move along the handle connecting arm 5.

[0177] The left handle assembly 3 may also include a left handle front extension 3-1 and a left handle rear extension 3-3 disposed at both ends thereto, the left handle front extension 3-1 and the left handle rear extension 3-3 being retractable relative to the left handle body 3-2.

[0178] As an example, the two ends of the left handle body 3-2 can be hollow tube structures, capable of housing the left handle front extension 3-1 and the left handle rear extension 3-3. The left handle body 3-2 has a left sliding groove 3-5 extending along its inner side. The inner sides of the left handle front extension 3-1 and the left handle rear extension 3-3 each have a left toggle button 3-6, which protrudes from the inner surface of the left handle body 3-2 through the left sliding groove 3-5. By pushing the left toggle button 3-6, the left handle front extension 3-1 and the left handle rear extension 3-3 can slide and extend within the left handle body 3-2.

[0179] Similarly, the right handle assembly 4 may also include a right handle front extension 4-1 and a right handle rear extension 4-3 disposed at both ends thereto, the right handle front extension 4-1 and the right handle rear extension 4-3 being retractable relative to the right handle body 4-2.

[0180] As an example, the two ends of the right handle body 4-2 can be hollow tube structures, capable of housing the front extension 4-1 and the rear extension 4-3 of the right handle. The right handle body 4-2 has a right sliding groove 4-5 extending along its inner side. The inner sides of the front extension 4-1 and the rear extension 4-3 of the right handle each have a right toggle button 4-6, which protrudes through the right sliding groove 4-5 from the inner surface of the right handle body 4-2. By pushing the right toggle button 4-6, the front extension 4-1 and the rear extension 4-3 of the right handle can slide telescopically within the right handle body 4-2.

[0181] The deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an angle adjustment mechanism.

[0182] like Figure 5 As shown, the angle adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a handle gear 8, a handle angle adjustment device 9, and a handle gear cover 10. Two handle gears 8 are respectively fixedly installed at the lower ends of the left handle shaft 3-4 and the right handle shaft 4-4, and are capable of rotating with the rotation of the left handle shaft 3-4 and the right handle shaft 4-4. The handle angle adjustment device 9 is fixedly installed in the linear moving block 6-2, and the handle angle adjustment device 9 has an angle adjustment gear that meshes with the handle gear 8. The handle gear cover 10 is fixedly installed at the lower ends of the left handle shaft 3-4 and the right handle shaft 4-4, thereby axially fixing the handle gear 8.

[0183] The deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention also includes a steering mechanism mounted on the lower part of the main shaft 2 for driving the rotation direction of the wheels.

[0184] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 6A For along Figure 6The cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the AA line. Figure 6B For along Figure 6 The cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the BB line. Figure 7 The steering mechanism structure of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0185] like Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 6A , Figure 6B as well as Figure 7 As shown, the steering gear includes a connector 11, an upper cover 12, a steering gear 13 fixedly mounted on the lower part of the main shaft 2, an end cover assembly 14 fixedly mounted on the lower end of the main shaft 2 and covering the steering gear 13, a PCB assembly 15 for sensing the steering angle of the main shaft 2, a steering force simulation device 16, and a bottom cover 17. The PCB assembly 15 and the steering force simulation device 16 are mounted on the bottom cover 17. The end cover assembly 14 has a magnet 14-1, and the PCB assembly 15 has an angle sensor 15-1, and the rotation angle of the main shaft 2 is sensed by the magnet 14-1 and the angle sensor 15-1. A feedback gear 16-1 is mounted on the steering force simulation device 16, and the feedback gear 16-1 meshes with the steering gear 13. The upper cover 12 and the bottom cover 17 are connected by the connector 11. As an example, the connector 11 can be multiple screws.

[0186] When the car is to be turned, the deformable steering wheel is turned, and the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 drive the main shaft 2 to rotate, thereby rotating the steering gear 13 below it, which in turn drives the feedback gear 16-1 to rotate. In addition, the steering force simulation device 16 receives the steering torque feedback signal and provides steering load through the feedback gear 16-1 to simulate steering force and improve steering feel.

[0187] The following describes the deformation operation of a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0188] Each press of the mode switch button 1-25 will switch the transformable steering wheel between normal driving mode and automatic driving mode.

[0189] In normal driving mode, the airbag and function button assembly 1 is lowered to its lowest position. At this time, the slide key 1-7 of the airbag and function button assembly 1 abuts against the limiting structure 2-2 at the lower end of the slide keyway 2-1 of the main shaft 2, as shown... Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown.

[0190] In normal driving mode, press the mode switching button 1-25 of the multifunction button 1-2 to enter the autonomous driving mode. At this time, the airbag and function button assembly 1 is raised to the highest position, the left handle body 3-2 and the right handle body 4-2 move inward and rotate forward until they are in a straight line with the handle connecting arm 5 and are located between the airbag and function button assembly 1 and the handle connecting arm 5.

[0191] That is, in autonomous driving mode, the airbag and function button assembly 1 is raised to its highest position, and the left handle assembly 3 and right handle assembly 4 move inward and rotate forward, inserting themselves between the airbag and function button assembly 1 and the handle connecting arm 5. Thus, the left handle assembly 3 and right handle assembly 4 fold into a compact configuration, as shown below. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown. At this time, the slide key 1-7 of the airbag and function button assembly 1 abuts against the limiting structure 2-2 at the upper end of the slide keyway 2-1 of the main shaft 2.

[0192] In autonomous driving mode, press the mode switching button 1-25 of the multi-function button 1-2 to enter the normal driving mode. At this time, the left handle body 3-2 and the right handle body 4-2 move outward to their maximum diameter and rotate backward to a position symmetrical to the handle connecting arm 5, and the airbag and function button assembly 1 is lowered to its lowest position.

[0193] In normal driving mode, pressing the diameter-increasing button 1-21 drives the linear movement device 6-1 of the linear movement assembly 6, causing the gear of the movement assembly to rotate in the first direction and mesh with the rack 7. Therefore, the linear movement assembly 6 moves outward, thereby driving the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 outward, thus increasing the diameter of the steering wheel. Figure 6 The image shows the steering wheel at its maximum diameter.

[0194] In normal driving mode, pressing the reduction button 1-22 drives the linear movement device 6-1 of the linear movement assembly 6, causing the movement assembly gear to rotate in the second direction through meshing with the rack 7. Therefore, the linear movement assembly 6 moves inward, thereby driving the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 inward, thus reducing the diameter of the steering wheel. The first direction and the second direction are opposite directions of rotation. Figure 11 It shows that the steering wheel is in the smallest diameter mode.

[0195] In normal driving mode, pressing the forward angle adjustment button 1-23 drives the handle angle adjustment device 9 to rotate upwards. Through meshing with the handle gear 8, it drives the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 to rotate forward, thereby adjusting the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 to a certain angle forward. Figure 12It displays the status when the steering wheel is adjusted forward at a certain angle (forward adjustment mode).

[0196] In normal driving mode, pressing the rearward adjustment buttons 1-24 drives the handle adjustment device 9 to rotate in the fourth direction. Through engagement with the handle gear 8, it drives the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 to rotate rearward, thereby adjusting the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 to a certain angle. The third direction and the fourth direction are opposite directions of rotation. Figure 13 It displays the status when the steering wheel is adjusted to a certain angle backward (rearward adjustment mode).

[0197] In normal driving mode, by pushing the left toggle button 3-6 back and forth along the left sliding groove 3-5, the front extension 3-1 and the rear extension 3-3 of the left handlebar can slide in and out of the left handlebar body 3-2, thereby changing the handlebar length of the left handlebar assembly 3.

[0198] In normal driving mode, by pushing the right toggle button 4-6 back and forth along the right sliding groove 4-5, the front extension 4-1 and the rear extension 4-3 of the right handlebar can slide in and out of the right handlebar body 4-2, thereby changing the handlebar length of the right handlebar assembly 4.

[0199] Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 14D , Figure 14E , Figure 14F , Figure 14G as well as Figure 14H The different extension states of the left handle assembly 3 and the right handle assembly 4 of the deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention are illustrated by way of example. By adjusting the extension and retraction of the left handle front extension 3-1, the left handle rear extension 3-3, the right handle front extension 4-1 and the right handle rear extension 4-3, and the positions of the left handle body 3-2 and the right handle body 4-2, the deformable steering wheel can achieve various different states to adapt to different drivers.

[0200] The following describes a method for assembling a deformable steering wheel according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method for assembling the deformable steering wheel includes the following steps:

[0201] The rack 7 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the track cavity 5-2 at both ends of the handle connecting arm 5;

[0202] The linear motion assembly 6 is installed in the track cavities 5-2 at both ends of the handle connecting arm 5, and the gear of the motion assembly meshes with the rack 7;

[0203] The left handle shaft 3-4 and the right handle shaft 4-4 pass through the linear guide grooves 5-3 at both ends of the handle connecting arm 5 and are pivotally connected to the linear moving block 6-2.

[0204] The two handle gears 8 are fixedly installed on the lower part of the left handle shaft 3-4 and the right handle shaft 4-4 respectively;

[0205] Install the handle adjustment device 9 so that it meshes with the handle gear 8;

[0206] The two handle gear covers 10 are respectively fixedly installed at the lower ends of the left handle shaft 3-4 and the right handle shaft 4-4;

[0207] Pass the spindle 2 through the spindle mounting hole 5-1 of the handle connecting arm 5 and the top cover 12, and fix the steering gear 13 on the lower part of the spindle 2.

[0208] The end cap assembly 14 is fixedly installed at the lower end of the main shaft 2;

[0209] The PCB assembly 15 and the steering force simulation device 16 are mounted on the bottom cover 17;

[0210] Connect the top cover 12 and the bottom cover 17 using connector 11; and

[0211] The airbag and function button assembly 1 is installed on the upper end of the main shaft (2).

[0212] For ease of interpretation and precise definition of the appended claims, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” and “outer” are used to describe features of exemplary embodiments with reference to the positions of these features shown in the figures.

[0213] The foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the present invention is for illustrative and explanatory purposes. These descriptions are not intended to exhaustively describe the invention or limit it to the precise forms disclosed, and it will be apparent that many changes and variations can be made in accordance with the foregoing teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the specific principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to implement and utilize various different exemplary embodiments of the invention, as well as various different choices and variations. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A deformable steering wheel, characterized in that... include: A steering gear installed at the lower part of the main shaft (2) is used to drive the rotation direction of the wheels; Left handle assembly (3) and right handle assembly (4); The handle connecting arm (5) has a spindle mounting hole (5-1) and a linear guide groove (5-3) located in the center; A linear motion assembly (6) is capable of linear movement along the handle connecting arm (5); The left handle assembly and the right handle assembly are pivotally connected to the linear motion assembly (6) by passing through the linear guide grooves (5-3) at both ends of the handle connecting arm (5).

2. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The left handle assembly (3) has an arc-shaped structure, including a left handle body (3-2) and a left handle shaft (3-4). The left handle shaft (3-4) is fixedly installed in the center of the left handle body (3-2) and perpendicular to its arc-shaped plane. The right handle assembly (4) has an arc-shaped structure, including a right handle body (4-2) and a right handle shaft (4-4). The right handle shaft (4-4) is fixedly installed in the center of the left handle body (3-2) and perpendicular to its arc-shaped plane. The linear motion assembly (6) includes a linear motion device (6-1) and a linear motion block (6-2), wherein the linear motion device (6-1) is mounted on the linear motion block (6-2); The left handle shaft (3-4) and the right handle shaft (4-4) pass through the linear guide grooves (5-3) at both ends of the handle connecting arm (5) and are pivotally connected to the linear moving block (6-2).

3. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 2, characterized in that: The handle connecting arm (5) also has a track cavity (5-2) extending from both ends toward the middle, and the linear guide groove (5-3) penetrates the upper and lower walls of the track cavity (5-2); A rack (7) is fixedly installed at the bottom of the track cavity (5-2) at both ends of the handle connecting arm (5); The linear motion device (6-1) has a rotating assembly gear that meshes with the rack (7).

4. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes an airbag and function button assembly (1), which is installed at the upper end of the main shaft (2) and has a multi-function button (1-2). The multi-function button (1-2) includes an increasing diameter button (1-21) and a decreasing diameter button (1-22). The increasing diameter button (1-21) can control the gear of the moving assembly to rotate forward, so that the linear moving assembly (6) moves outward; the decreasing diameter button (1-22) can control the gear of the moving assembly to rotate in the opposite direction, so that the linear moving assembly (6) moves inward.

5. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 4, further comprising an angle adjustment mechanism, the angle adjustment mechanism comprising: Two handle gears (8) are fixedly installed on the lower parts of the left handle shaft (3-4) and the right handle shaft (4-4), respectively; Two handle angle adjustment devices (9) are provided, each having an angle adjustment gear. The handle angle adjustment devices (9) are fixedly installed in the linear moving block (6-2), and the angle adjustment gears mesh with the two handle gears (8) respectively. and Two handle gear covers (10) are fixedly installed at the lower ends of the left handle shaft (3-4) and the right handle shaft (4-4), respectively, thereby fixing the handle gear (8) in the axial direction; The multi-function button (1-2) further includes a forward angle adjustment button (1-23) and a backward angle adjustment button (1-24). The forward angle adjustment button (1-23) is used to drive the angle adjustment gears of the two handle angle adjustment devices (9) to rotate forward, thereby driving the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) to rotate forward by a certain angle. The backward angle adjustment button (1-24) is used to drive the angle adjustment gears of the two handle angle adjustment devices (9) to rotate backward, thereby driving the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) to rotate backward by a certain angle.

6. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 5, wherein the multi-function button (1-2) further includes a mode switching button (1-25), the mode switching button (1-25) being used to control the deformable steering wheel to switch between a normal driving mode and an automatic driving mode; In normal driving mode, the airbag and function button assembly (1) is lowered to the lowest position; in automatic driving mode, the airbag and function button assembly (1) is raised to the highest position, the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) move inward and rotate forward to be in a straight line with the handle connecting arm (5), and are located between the airbag and function button assembly (1) and the handle connecting arm (5).

7. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 6, wherein: The airbag and function button assembly (1) also has a convex shaft (1-5) extending downward from the center of the lower surface. The convex shaft (1-5) has a convex shaft hole (1-6) extending perpendicular to the lower surface of the airbag and function button assembly (1). The inner surface of the convex shaft hole (1-6) has an axially extending slide key (1-7). The upper end of the main shaft (2) has an axially arranged keyway (2-1), and both the upper and lower ends of the keyway (2-1) have limiting structures (2-2). The key (1-7) can slide in the keyway (2-1) within the range defined by the limiting structures (2-2).

8. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 6, wherein: The front and rear ends of the left handle body (3-2) are both hollow tube structures. The left handle body (3-2) has a transparent left sliding groove (3-5) extending along its arc-shaped inner side. The left handle assembly (3) also includes a left handle front extension (3-1) and a left handle rear extension (3-3) that can slide and extend in the hollow tube structure. The left handle front extension (3-1) and the left handle rear extension (3-3) are both equipped with a left toggle button (3-6). The left toggle button (3-6) passes through the left sliding groove (3-5) and protrudes from the surface of the left handle body (3-2). The front and rear ends of the right handle body (4-2) are both hollow tube structures. The right handle body (4-2) has a transparent right sliding groove (4-5) extending along its arc-shaped inner side. The right handle assembly (4) also includes a right handle front extension (4-1) and a right handle rear extension (4-3) that can slide and extend in the hollow tube structure. Both the right handle front extension (4-1) and the right handle rear extension (4-3) are equipped with a right toggle button (4-6). The right toggle button (4-6) passes through the right sliding groove (4-5) and protrudes from the surface of the right handle body (4-2).

9. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 4, wherein the steering mechanism comprises: The top cover (12) has a mounting shaft hole for the main shaft (2) to pass through; Steering gear (13), which is fixedly mounted on the lower part of the main shaft (2); An end cap assembly (14) is fixedly installed at the lower end of the main shaft (2) and is equipped with a magnet (14-1); PCB assembly (15) having an angle sensor (15-1) mounted facing the magnet (14-1) and used to sense the rotation angle of the spindle (2); A steering force simulation device (16) has a feedback gear (16-1) that meshes with the steering gear (13) to receive a steering torque signal and perform steering feedback. The bottom cover (17), the PCB assembly (15), and the steering force simulation device (16) are mounted in the bottom cover (17); and A connector (11) connects the upper cover (12) and the bottom cover (17).

10. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 9, wherein the airbag and function button assembly (1) further includes a steering angle indicator (1-3) for indicating the steering angle of the vehicle.

11. The deformable steering wheel according to claim 4, wherein the number of racks (7) in each track cavity (5-2) is two, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the linear guide groove (5-3); the number of moving assembly gears on each linear moving block (6-2) is two, respectively meshing with the racks (7).

12. The deformable steering wheel according to any one of claims 4-11, wherein the airbag and function button assembly (1) further includes an airbag (1-1) and a mode indicator (1-4), the mode indicator (1-4) being configured to surround the airbag (1-1) and to change color as the mode of the deformable steering wheel changes or according to changes in the steering wheel diameter or handle angle.

13. A method for assembling a deformable steering wheel, comprising the following steps: The racks (7) are fixedly installed at the bottom of the track cavities (5-2) at both ends of the handle connecting arm (5); The linear motion assembly (6) is installed in the track cavity (5-2) at both ends of the handle connecting arm (5), and the gear of the motion assembly meshes with the rack (7); The left handle shaft (3-4) and the right handle shaft (4-4) pass through the linear guide grooves (5-3) at both ends of the handle connecting arm (5) and are pivotally connected to the linear moving block (6-2); The two handle gears (8) are fixedly installed on the lower part of the left handle shaft (3-4) and the right handle shaft (4-4) respectively; Install the handle adjustment device (9) so that it meshes with the handle gear (8); Two handle gear covers (10) are fixedly installed at the lower ends of the left handle shaft (3-4) and the right handle shaft (4-4), respectively; Pass the spindle (2) through the spindle mounting hole (5-1) and the top cover (12) of the handle connecting arm (5), and fix the steering gear (13) on the lower part of the spindle (2); The end cap assembly (14) is fixedly installed at the lower end of the main shaft (2); The PCB assembly (15) and the steering force simulation device (16) are mounted on the bottom cover (17); Connect the top cover (12) and the bottom cover (17) with connector (11); and The airbag and function button assembly (1) is installed on the upper end of the spindle (2).

14. A method for adjusting a deformable steering wheel, wherein the deformable steering wheel is the deformable steering wheel according to claim 8, the adjustment method comprising the following steps: In normal driving mode, pressing the mode switch button (1-25) of the multifunction button (1-2) enters the automatic driving mode, causing the airbag and function button assembly (1) to be raised to its highest position. The left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) move inward and rotate forward until they are aligned with the handle connecting arm (5) and located between the airbag and function button assembly (1) and the handle connecting arm (5); or In autonomous driving mode, press the mode switching button (1-25) of the multi-function button (1-2) to enter the normal driving mode, so that the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) move outward to the maximum diameter and rotate backward to a position symmetrical to the handle connecting arm (5), and the airbag and function button assembly (1) is lowered to the lowest position.

15. The method for adjusting the deformable steering wheel according to claim 14 further includes the following steps: In normal driving mode, pressing the diameter-increasing button (1-21) causes the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) to move outward; or In normal driving mode, pressing the reducer button (1-22) causes the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) to move inward.

16. The method for adjusting the deformable steering wheel according to claim 14 further includes the following steps: In normal driving mode, pressing the forward angle adjustment button (1-23) will cause the left handlebar body (3-2) and the right handlebar body (4-2) to rotate forward by a certain angle; or In normal driving mode, pressing the rearward adjustment button (1-24) will cause the left handle body (3-2) and the right handle body (4-2) to rotate backward by a certain angle.

17. The method for adjusting a deformable steering wheel according to claim 14 further includes the following steps: In normal driving mode, pushing the left lever (3-6) forward or backward will extend or shorten the front extension (3-1) or rear extension (3-3) of the left handlebar relative to the main body (3-2); or In normal driving mode, push the right lever (4-6) forward or backward to extend or shorten the front extension (4-1) and rear extension (4-3) of the right handlebar relative to the main body (4-2).

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