Steering wheel, instrument panel assembly, and vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to steering wheel technical field, especially a kind of steering wheel, instrument desk assembly and traffic carrier, steering wheel includes center piece and rim, rim can be switched in unfolded state and first folding state, rim includes first rim and second rim, when rim is in unfolded state, along the 12 o'clock direction of rim, the first rim is located above the second rim;Rim is switched from unfolded state to first folding state, the first rim and second rim rotate downward around first axis relative to center piece, first rim rotates downward relative to second rim, so that, to reduce the size in the plane perpendicular to first axis during rim folding, to avoid interference with center piece, instrument panel and other surrounding components during rotation, so that steering wheel can be folded to target state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of steering wheel technology, and more particularly to a steering wheel, dashboard assembly, and vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of automotive intelligence and autonomous driving technologies, foldable steering wheels are gradually becoming an important development direction in intelligent cockpit design. When the vehicle is in advanced autonomous driving mode, the steering wheel can automatically fold or stow away to free up cabin space and improve user comfort.

[0003] However, the steering wheels in the relevant technologies are large in size, which can easily interfere with the user during storage. Furthermore, they are bulky after folding, making them difficult to store and resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide a steering wheel, dashboard assembly, and vehicle, which aims to solve the problem of how to reduce the size of the steering wheel after folding.

[0005] In a first aspect, a steering wheel is provided, including a center member and a rim, the rim being switchable between an unfolded state and a first folded state, the rim including a second rim and a first rim, wherein when the rim is in the unfolded state, the first rim is located above the second rim along the 12 o'clock direction of the rim; During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the entire rim rotates downwards relative to the central member around the first axis, and the first rim rotates downwards relative to the second rim.

[0006] In this way, when the wheel rim switches from an unfolded state to a folded state, the entire wheel rim rotates relative to the central component, and the first rim rotates relative to the second rim. This reduces the size of the wheel rim in the plane perpendicular to the first axis during the folding process, thus avoiding interference with the central component, dashboard, and other surrounding components during rotation, allowing the steering wheel to fold to the target state. Moreover, when the wheel rim is in the folded state, the entire wheel rim rotates relative to the central component to achieve a first fold, and the second rim rotates relative to the first rim to achieve a second fold. This reduces the size of the steering wheel in the folded state, saving space when the steering wheel is stored inside the dashboard.

[0007] At the same time, the setting of the first axis can effectively improve the connection strength between the second wheel rim and the center piece, improve the stability of the stacked rotation structure, ensure the relative position accuracy and motion reliability of each component during folding, and reduce the risk of loosening or wear after long-term use.

[0008] Optionally, along the 6 o'clock or 12 o'clock direction of the rim, the size of the second rim is K1, and the size of the first rim is K2; K1 > K2; or, K1 and K2 satisfy: 1 / 4 ≤ K2 / K1 ≤ 2 / 5; or, 1 / 4 ≤ K2 / K1 ≤ 1 / 2.

[0009] Optionally, the circumference of the rim is C1, the length of the first rim is C2, and 1 / 5 ≤ C2 / C1 ≤ 1 / 2.

[0010] Optionally, when the wheel rim is in the first folded state, the second wheel rim is located on one side of the first axis, and the first wheel rim is located on the side of the second wheel rim facing away from the first axis. The first axis is the axis of the output end of the steering column connected to the steering wheel.

[0011] Optionally, during the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the second rim relative to the center member is smaller than the rotation angle of the first rim relative to the second rim.

[0012] Optionally, during the process of the wheel flange switching from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the first wheel flange relative to the second wheel flange is E, where E is in any interval of [0°, 180°]; the rotation angle of the second wheel flange relative to the first wheel flange is F, where F is in any interval of [-180°, 0°]. E and F satisfy: 120°≤EF≤180°; or, 160°≤EF≤180°.

[0013] Optionally, during the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the second wheel rim relative to the center member is G, where G satisfies: 75°≤G≤100°.

[0014] Optionally, the first shaft is parallel to the 3 o'clock or 9 o'clock direction of the wheel rim.

[0015] Optionally, when the rim is in the first folded state, the rim is located on the first side of the first axis; The first shaft is located on the second side of the first axis, the second side is opposite to the first side, and the first axis is the rotation axis for the steering wheel to turn.

[0016] Optionally, the steering wheel further includes a connecting arm connected to the wheel rim, and the first shaft connecting the center member and the connecting arm; and / or The connecting arm is connected to the second rim; and / or The connecting arm and the second wheel rim are integral parts.

[0017] Optionally, the steering wheel further includes two connecting arms, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the second wheel rim, and the central member is disposed between the two connecting arms, and the first shaft is connected between the central member and the two connecting arms.

[0018] Optionally, in the 3 o'clock and / or 9 o'clock positions of the wheel rim, a button assembly is provided between the wheel rim and the center member, and the mating portion of the second wheel rim and the first wheel rim is offset from the button assembly.

[0019] Optionally, the rim can also switch from a first folded state to a second folded state; During the transition from the first folded state to the second folded state, the first folded rim rotates upward relative to the second folded rim.

[0020] Optionally, when the rim is in the second folded state, the surface where the second rim is located and the surface where the first rim is located are coplanar.

[0021] Optionally, the center component can switch between a storage position and a display position. When the center component is in the storage position, the wheel rim is in either the second folded state or the first folded state, and / or When the central component is in the exhibited position, the wheel rim is in the unfolded state.

[0022] Secondly, a dashboard assembly is also provided, the dashboard assembly including the steering wheel of the first aspect.

[0023] Optionally, the dashboard assembly includes a dashboard, and the central component can be switched between a stowed position and a display position relative to the dashboard; During the process of the central component switching from the display position to the storage position, the wheel rim switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

[0024] Optionally, a receiving space is provided below the dashboard, and when the center component is in the stored position, the wheel rim is located within the receiving space.

[0025] Optionally, the dashboard also includes a notch located above and communicating with the receiving space; When the central component is in the storage position, along the first axis, the projection of the central component overlaps with the projection of the notch. Wherein, the first axis is the axis of the output end of the steering column connected to the steering wheel.

[0026] Optionally, when the central component is in the retracted position, the central component is located within the notch and satisfies the following: Along the perpendicular direction of the first axis, there is a gap between the center member and the notch, the width of the gap being A, where A satisfies: 0≤A≤10mm, and / or, the instrument panel assembly further includes a gap filler, the gap filler being disposed on the instrument panel or the center member, and on a plane perpendicular to the first axis, the projection of the gap filler overlaps with the projection of the gap; Alternatively, the center element and the notch satisfy the following: The central component is located on one side of the dashboard and covers the notch.

[0027] Optionally, the steering wheel may also include a toggle switch; During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the central component rotates downward so that the toggle switch avoids the dashboard.

[0028] Optionally, the space on the side of the dashboard facing away from the driver's seat is an instrument compartment; During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, when the projection of the lever switch in the height direction of the vehicle falls into the projection of the accommodating space, the central component rotates upward.

[0029] Thirdly, a controller is provided for controlling a steering wheel, the steering wheel including a center element and a rim; the rim can switch between an unfolded state and a first folded state, the rim including a first rim and a second rim, the second rim being connected to the center element, and when the rim is in the unfolded state, the first rim is located above the second rim along the 12 o'clock direction of the rim; The controller is configured as follows: During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the entire rim is controlled to rotate downward relative to the center member, and the first rim rotates downward relative to the second rim.

[0030] Optionally, the controller is configured to: During the process of switching the wheel flange from the unfolded state to the first folded state, while controlling the wheel flange as a whole to rotate downward relative to the center member, the first wheel flange is controlled to rotate downward relative to the second wheel flange. Alternatively, the controller is configured as follows: During the process of switching the wheel flange from the unfolded state to the first folded state, after controlling the wheel flange as a whole to rotate downward relative to the center member, the first wheel flange is controlled to rotate downward relative to the second wheel flange. Alternatively, the controller is configured to: During the process of switching the rim from the unfolded state to the first folded state, after controlling the first rim to rotate downward relative to the second rim, the entire rim is controlled to rotate downward relative to the center member.

[0031] Optionally, the steering wheel can be switched between a display position and a storage position, and the controller is configured as follows: During the process of the central component switching from the storage position to the display position, the wheel rim is controlled to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

[0032] Optionally, the controller is further configured to: After the rim switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the first rim is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state.

[0033] Optionally, the steering wheel further includes a toggle switch; the controller is further configured to: During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the central component is controlled to rotate downward so that the toggle switch avoids the dashboard.

[0034] Optionally, the controller is further configured to: While controlling the central component to rotate downwards, the wheel rim is controlled to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After controlling the central component to rotate downwards, control the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After controlling the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the center member is controlled to rotate downwards.

[0035] Optionally, the space on the side of the dashboard facing away from the driver's seat is an instrument cluster; the controller is further configured to: During the process of switching the central component from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch is located in the instrument compartment, it controls the central component to rotate upward.

[0036] Optionally, the controller is further configured to: While controlling the center component to rotate upward, the first rim is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After controlling the center component to rotate upward, control the first rim to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; Alternatively, the controller is further configured to: control the first rim to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that after the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state, control the center member to rotate upward.

[0037] Optionally, the controller is configured to: During the process of switching the central component from the display position to the storage position, the central component is controlled to move away from the driver's seat.

[0038] Optionally, the controller is further configured to: While controlling the central component to move away from the driver's seat, the central component rotates downward; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After the control center component rotates downward, it moves away from the driver's seat.

[0039] Fourthly, a control method is provided for a steering wheel, the steering wheel including a center component and a rim; the rim can switch between an unfolded state and a first folded state, the rim including a first rim and a second rim, when the rim is in the unfolded state, along the 12 o'clock direction of the rim, the first rim is located above the second rim; the control method includes: During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the entire rim is controlled to rotate downwards relative to the center member around the first axis, and the first rim rotates downwards relative to the second rim.

[0040] Optionally, controlling the wheel rim to rotate downward relative to the center member, and the first wheel rim to rotate downward relative to the second wheel rim, includes: While controlling the entire rim to rotate downwards relative to the center member, simultaneously control the first rim to rotate relative to the second rim; or, After controlling the entire rim to rotate downwards relative to the center member, control the first rim to rotate relative to the second rim; or, After controlling the first rim to rotate downward relative to the second rim, control the entire rim to rotate downward relative to the center member.

[0041] Optionally, the steering wheel can be switched between an on-screen position and a storage position, and the control method further includes: Control the steering wheel to switch from the display position to the storage position; During the process of the central component switching from the display position to the storage position, the wheel rim is controlled to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

[0042] Optionally, after controlling the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the method further includes: Control the first rim to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state.

[0043] Optionally, the steering wheel further includes a toggle switch; the control method further includes: During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the central component is controlled to rotate downward so that the toggle switch avoids the dashboard.

[0044] Optionally, controlling the downward rotation of the central component includes: While controlling the central component to rotate downwards, control the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state; or, After controlling the central component to rotate downwards, control the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state; or, After controlling the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the center member is controlled to rotate downwards.

[0045] Optionally, the space on the side of the dashboard facing away from the driver's seat is an instrument cluster, and the control method further includes: During the process of switching the central component from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch is located in the instrument compartment, it controls the central component to rotate upward.

[0046] Optionally, controlling the upward rotation of the central component includes: While controlling the center component to rotate upward, the first rim is also controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; or After controlling the center member to rotate upward, the first rim is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; or The controller is further configured to: control the first rim to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that after the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state, control the center member to rotate upward.

[0047] Optionally, the control method further includes: During the process of switching the central component from the display position to the storage position, the central component is controlled to move away from the driver's seat.

[0048] Optionally, the control method further includes: controlling the central member to move away from the driver's seat while simultaneously rotating the central member downwards; or After the control center component rotates downward, it moves away from the driver's seat.

[0049] Fifthly, a controller is also provided, including a processor and a memory; the memory stores instructions executable by the processor; when the processor is configured to execute the instructions, the controller enables the control method of the fourth aspect.

[0050] Sixthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, storing a computer program; when the computer program is executed, it can implement the control method of the fourth aspect.

[0051] In a seventh aspect, a computer program product is also provided, including a computer program; when the computer program is executed, it is able to implement the control method of the fourth aspect.

[0052] Eighthly, a vehicle is provided, comprising a steering wheel of the first aspect, or an instrument panel assembly of the second aspect, or a controller of the third aspect, or a controller of the fifth aspect, or a computer-readable storage medium of the sixth aspect, or a computer program product of the seventh aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0053] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of 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.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the steering wheel in the exhibited position in the relevant technology. Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the steering wheel in the stowed position in the relevant technology; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a steering wheel in related technologies; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another type of steering wheel in related technologies; Figure 5 A directional diagram of the steering wheel provided in this application; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a structural embodiment of the steering wheel provided in this application; Figure 7 for Figure 6A schematic diagram of the steering wheel in its second folded state; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the instrument panel assembly provided in this application; Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the steering wheel in its stowed position; Figure 10 for Figure 8 A structural diagram illustrating the process of the steering wheel switching from its unfolded state to its first folded state. Figure 11 for Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the interaction between the steering wheel and the notch; Figure 12 for Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the fit between the gap filler and the notch; Figure 13 for Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the structure of the gap filler; Figure 14 for Figure 13 Exploded view of the gap filler; Figure 15 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a structure of an embodiment of the process of switching the steering wheel from the unfolded state to the stored position; Figure 16 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the process of switching the steering wheel from the unfolded state to the stored position.

[0055] Figure label: 1000 - Transportation vehicles; 100 - Instrument panel assembly; 10 - Steering wheel, 10a - 12 o'clock position, 10b - 3 o'clock position, 10c - 6 o'clock position, 10d - 9 o'clock position, O1 - First axis; 1-Center component; 2-Flange rim, 21-First rim rim, 22-Second rim rim; 3-First axis; 4-Second axis; 5-Connecting arm; 6-Gap filler, 61-First opening, 62-Second opening, 63-Base, 64-Flexible layer; 7-Toggle switch; 8-Button assembly; 20-Instrument panel, 201-Accommodation space, 202-Notch, 203-Instrument compartment, 204-Panel, 205-Lower guard plate, 206-Inner guard plate. Detailed Implementation

[0056] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," and "sixth" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," and "sixth" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0057] In embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0058] "A and / or B" includes the following three combinations: A only, B only, and a combination of A and B.

[0059] In the embodiments of this application, "parallel," "perpendicular," and "equal" include the described situation and situations similar to the described situation, where the range of similarity is within an acceptable deviation range, which is determined by those skilled in the art taking into account the measurement under discussion and the error associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "parallel" includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate parallelism can be, for example, a deviation within 5°; "perpendicular" includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate perpendicularity can also be, for example, a deviation within 5°. "Equal" includes absolute equality and approximate equality, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate equality can be, for example, a difference between the two equals being less than or equal to 5% of either one.

[0060] In the embodiments of this application, the directional descriptions of "up", "down" and "left" are all based on the directional descriptions when the described object is installed on a vehicle or other transportation vehicle, and the transportation vehicle is placed on the ground in a usage posture.

[0061] In vehicles such as cars, ships, and trains, the steering wheel is used to control the direction of travel. For an example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 1 The steering wheel 10 rotates via the wheel rim 2 to achieve directional control of the vehicle 1000. With the development of technology, the steering wheel 10 needs to be stored and folded inwards towards the dashboard 20 to meet the user's needs for space comfort in scenarios such as intelligent driving and sleeping.

[0062] Please see Figure 2 When the steering wheel 10 is folded into the inner side of the instrument panel 20, the rim 2 of the steering wheel 10 is folded relative to the center piece 1 to reduce the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 inside the instrument panel 20 when it is in the folded position.

[0063] There are many technologies for steering wheel storage, but when applied to complete vehicles, corresponding technical problems arise. For example, a vehicle includes an instrument panel and a steering wheel. The steering wheel is connected to the wheels via a steering column to control wheel steering. In the working state, the steering wheel is located in the driver's cabin, and the instrument panel separates the instrument cluster from the driver's cabin. At least part of the steering column connecting to the steering wheel extends out of the instrument panel, and at least part of the steering column connecting to the wheels is located in the instrument cluster. In addition to part of the steering column and transmission mechanism, the instrument cluster also contains the air conditioning system, etc., making the space inside the instrument cluster very limited.

[0064] To free up more space in the driver's seat, accommodate more usage scenarios, and improve the user experience, the steering wheel needs to be stored more in the instrument panel, or at least the steering wheel rim 2 should be completely stored in the instrument panel, or at least the front and rear space occupied by the steering wheel when stored should be reduced. Therefore, it is crucial to minimize the size of the steering wheel rim 2 while ensuring the safety of the steering wheel during use.

[0065] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 (a) is a schematic diagram of the structure of a steering wheel 10 before folding, provided by related technologies. Figure 3 (b) is a structural diagram of the steering wheel 10 during the folding process. Figure 3 (c) in the diagram shows the structure of the steering wheel 10 after folding. In related technologies, the rim 2 is rotated relative to the center piece 1 to achieve the folding of the steering wheel 10. This rim rotation scheme is relatively simple in design, but the rim 2 occupies a large space during the rotation process, which has an adverse effect on the driver, such as a higher probability of interference with the driver, affecting the user experience and safety. Moreover, after rotation, it still occupies a large space in the front and rear of the vehicle, which may lead to the following situations: 1) The rim of the steering wheel is exposed outside the dashboard, which is unsightly and detrimental to the driver's space; 2) It occupies a large space in the instrument panel, making it difficult to arrange, applicable to fewer vehicle models, and costly; 3) It is easy to interfere with the driver and passengers during rotation, causing injury to the driver and passengers.

[0066] The applicant discovered that if the entire wheel rim needs to be flipped, requiring less space and minimizing interference with occupants, the wheel rim diameter could be reduced. However, this would introduce interference issues during the flipping process. Specifically, during the flipping process, wheel rim 2 is prone to interfering with structures such as the center component 1, preventing it from folding to the target position. For an example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 3 In (b), during the flipping process of rim 2, rim 2 will interfere with the center part at point a, preventing rim 2 from folding to... Figure 3 The target location is shown in (c) in the diagram.

[0067] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 (a) is a schematic diagram of the structure of another steering wheel 10 before folding, provided by related technologies. Figure 4 Figure (b) shows a schematic diagram of the steering wheel 10 after folding. The rim includes an upper rim 2a and a lower rim 2b. Specifically, the upper rim 2a and the lower rim 2b are flipped relative to the center piece 1 to achieve the folding of the steering wheel 10. In the folded state, the size of the steering wheel in the front-to-back direction is reduced, but folding the rims will change the conventional settings of the combination switch, such as canceling the combination switch, which will affect driving safety.

[0068] Based on the above discussion, the core challenge of steering wheel storage technology lies in developing a steering wheel that occupies little space and is safe.

[0069] To resolve the above issues, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 This application proposes a steering wheel 10, including a center component 1 and a rim 2.

[0070] The center component 1 is located within the area surrounded by the wheel rim 2, and the center component 1 may include at least one of a frame, a decorative cover, or an airbag box. The center component is rotatable about a first axis to steer the wheel.

[0071] The frame can be displayed near the driver's seat and stored away from the driver's seat relative to the dashboard. The steering wheel can control the frame to switch between the display and storage positions to display and store the steering wheel.

[0072] Flange 2 is designed to be rotated by the user's hand for steering. Flange 2 can switch between an unfolded state and a first folded state. See also... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The rim 2 includes a first rim 21 and a second rim 22, which are different sections of the rim 2.

[0073] In the unfolded state, the first rim 21 and the second rim 22 are arranged circumferentially along the center member 1, and the angle between the first rim 21 and the second rim 22 is approximately 180°. The angle between the first rim 21 and the second rim 22 refers to the angle between the plane containing the second rim 22 and the plane containing the first rim 21. The plane containing the first rim 21 refers to the plane containing the line connecting the centers of the cross-sections at various positions along the extension direction of the first rim 21. Similarly, the plane containing the second rim 22 refers to the plane containing the line connecting the centers of the cross-sections at various positions along the extension direction of the second rim 22.

[0074] In the unfolded state, the plane containing the second wheel rim 22 and the plane containing the first wheel rim 21 are perpendicular to the first axis O1, allowing the user to steer the wheel by rotating the wheel rim 2. The first axis O1 is the axis of the output end connecting the steering column and the steering wheel.

[0075] When the rim 2 is in the unfolded state, and at the 12 o'clock position of the rim 2, the first rim 21 is above the second rim 22, the rim 2 as a whole rotates downward around the first axis 3 relative to the center piece 1, and the first rim 21 rotates downward relative to the second rim 22, so that the rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

[0076] The overall downward rotation of the rim 2 relative to the center member 1 means that the first rim 21 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 through the second rim 22. When the second rim 22 rotates relative to the center member 1, the second rim 22 can drive the first rim 21 to rotate downward relative to the center member 1, so as to realize the overall downward rotation of the rim 2 relative to the center member 1.

[0077] In some embodiments, viewed from the left side of the steering wheel, the wheel rim 2 rotates clockwise relative to the center member 1 around the 9 o'clock position 10d or the 3 o'clock position 10b of the steering wheel, and the first wheel rim 21 rotates clockwise relative to the second wheel rim 22.

[0078] Thus, on the one hand, when the wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, the wheel rim 2 as a whole rotates relative to the center member 1, and the first wheel rim 21 inside the wheel rim 2 rotates relative to the second wheel rim 22. This can reduce the size of the wheel rim 2 in the plane perpendicular to the first axis O1 during the folding process, so as to avoid interference with the center member 1, the instrument panel 20 and other surrounding components during the rotation, so that the steering wheel 10 can be folded to the target state. Moreover, when the wheel rim 2 is in the folded state, the wheel rim 2 as a whole rotates relative to the center member 1 to achieve a first fold, and the second wheel rim 22 rotates relative to the first wheel rim 21 to achieve a second fold. This can reduce the size of the steering wheel 10 in the folded state and save the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 when it is stored inside the instrument panel 20.

[0079] It should be noted that in this application, the terms "first fold" and "second fold" are not intended to emphasize the order of folding, but are used to better describe the shape of the steering wheel in the folded state. The same understanding will be applied to the same scenarios in the following text.

[0080] On the other hand, the downward rotation of the second wheel rim 22 allows the wheel rim 2 to be stored in the lower space of the dashboard 20, reducing the occupation of the steering wheel 10 on the user's activity space in the cockpit. Meanwhile, the first wheel rim 21 can release the space near the driver's seat side of the wheel rim 2 during the downward flip of the wheel rim 2, reducing the encroachment of the wheel rim 2 on the user's leg space and improving the user experience.

[0081] In some embodiments, when the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 and the first rim 21 is rotatably connected to the second rim 22, the rim 2 satisfies the following: along the 6 o'clock direction 10c or the 12 o'clock direction 10a of the rim 2, the dimension of the second rim 22 is K1, and the dimension of the first rim 21 is K2; K1 > K2. Alternatively, K1 and K2 satisfy: 1 / 4 ≤ K2 / K1 ≤ 2 / 5. Alternatively, K1 and K2 satisfy: 1 / 4 ≤ K2 / K1 ≤ 1 / 2.

[0082] Thus, during the transition of wheel rim 2 from its unfolded state to its first folded state, the distance between the first wheel rim 21 and the second wheel rim 22 and the center member 1 can be reduced. This ensures that the envelope paths of the first wheel rim 21 and the second wheel rim 22 are close to the center member 1, reducing the encroachment of wheel rim 2 on the driver's area during folding, increasing the driver's usable space, and improving the user experience. Simultaneously, when the steering wheel 10 is retracted into the instrument panel, the first wheel rim 21 has a smaller dimension along the first axis and occupies less space in the front-rear direction, minimizing interference with surrounding components (such as the air conditioning system).

[0083] In some embodiments, when the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 and the first rim 21 is rotatably connected to the second rim 22, the rim 2 also satisfies the following: the circumference of the rim 2 is C1, the length of the first rim 21 is C2, 1 / 5≤C2 / C1≤1 / 2, and C2 / C1 can be 1 / 4, 1 / 3, or 2 / 5. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0084] In this way, during the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the distance between the first rim 21 and the second rim 22 and the center member 1 can be reduced, ensuring that the envelope paths of the first rim 21 and the second rim 22 are close to the center member 1. This reduces the encroachment of the steering wheel 10 on the driver's area during folding, increases the driver's usable space, and improves the user experience. Simultaneously, when the steering wheel 10 is retracted into the instrument panel, the first rim 21 has a smaller dimension along the first axis and occupies less space in the front-rear direction, minimizing interference with surrounding components (such as the air conditioning system).

[0085] In some embodiments, when the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 and the first rim 21 is rotatably connected to the second rim 22, the rim 2 satisfies the following: when the rim 2 is in the first folded state, the second rim 22 is located on one side of the first axis O1, and the first rim 21 is located on the side of the second rim 22 opposite to the first axis O1.

[0086] The second wheel flange 22 and the first wheel flange 21, which span both sides of the first axis O1 along the height direction of the vehicle 1000, are folded to one side of the first axis O1, thereby reducing the space occupied by the wheel flange 2 in the height direction of the vehicle 1000, reducing the volume of the steering wheel 10 in the height direction of the vehicle 1000, and improving the space utilization rate of the steering wheel 10 in the height direction of the vehicle 1000.

[0087] In some embodiments, during the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the second rim 22 relative to the center member 1 is smaller than the rotation angle of the first rim 21 relative to the second rim 22. When the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 and the first rim 21 is rotatably connected to the second rim 22, the rotation angle of the rim 22 relative to the center member 1 is also the rotation angle of the second rim 22 relative to the center member 1. When the first rim 21 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 and the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the first rim 21, the rotation angle of the rim 22 relative to the center member 1 is also the rotation angle of the first rim 21 relative to the center member 1.

[0088] Specifically, the rotation angle of the second rim 22 relative to the center member 1 refers to the rotation angle of the surface containing the second rim 22 relative to the first axis O1. Similarly, the rotation angle of the first rim 21 relative to the center member 1 refers to the rotation angle of the surface containing the first rim 21 relative to the first axis O1.

[0089] In this way, the second rim 22 rotates slightly at the beginning of the folding process to get away from the interference area of ​​the center piece 1, and then the first rim 21 rotates significantly to achieve a tight convergence towards the second rim 22, thereby optimizing the folding path of the rim 2, reducing the space occupied by the folding of the rim 2, and improving the adaptability of the rim 2 to small spaces.

[0090] In some embodiments, the rotation angle of the first rim 21 relative to the second rim 22 is E, which satisfies: [0°, 180°]. E can be 10°, 30°, 50°, 70°, 90°, 110°, 130°, 150°, or 170°. This application does not limit this value.

[0091] In some embodiments, the rotation angle of the second rim 22 relative to the first rim 21 is F, where F satisfies: [-180°, 0°], and F can be -10°, -30°, -50°, -70°, -90°, -110°, -130°, -150°, or -170°. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0092] Under this rotation angle limitation, it can be ensured that when the second wheel rim 22 rotates relative to the first wheel rim 21, the second wheel rim 22 can be as close as possible to the first wheel rim 21. In this way, the distance between the second wheel rim 22 and the first wheel rim 21 is reduced, the volume of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state is reduced, and the space utilization rate of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state is improved.

[0093] In some implementations, E and F satisfy: 120°≤EF≤180°, where EF can be 130°, 140°, 150°, 160°, or 170°, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0094] Under the aforementioned angle constraints, it can be ensured that after the wheel rim 2 enters the first folded state, the second wheel rim 22 and the first wheel rim 21 can be set as close as possible to each other, thereby reducing the relative distance between the second wheel rim 22 and the first wheel rim 21, reducing the volume of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state, and improving the space utilization rate of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state.

[0095] In some implementations, E and F satisfy: 160°≤EF≤180°, where EF can be 165°, 170°, or 175°, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0096] Under the aforementioned angle constraints, it can be ensured that after the wheel rim 2 enters the first folded state, the first wheel rim 21 and the second wheel rim 22 can be set as close as possible to each other, thereby reducing the relative distance between the first wheel rim 21 and the second wheel rim 22, reducing the volume of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state, and improving the space utilization rate of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state.

[0097] In some embodiments, during the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the second rim 22 relative to the center member 1 is G, where G satisfies: 75°≤G≤100°.

[0098] The rotation angle of the second rim 22 relative to the center member 1 is the relative rotation angle of the surface where the second rim 22 is located to the first axis O1. G can be 80°, 85°, 90° or 95°, and this application does not limit it.

[0099] Under the aforementioned angle constraints, when the wheel rim 2 is in the first folded state, the second wheel rim 22 can be as close as possible to the first axis O1, thereby allowing the overall outline of the folded wheel rim 2 to converge toward the central area of ​​the center piece 1, reducing the volume of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state and improving the space utilization of the steering wheel 10 in the first folded state.

[0100] In some embodiments, the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the center member 1 via the first shaft 3, and can rotate relative to the center member 1 by rotating about the first shaft.

[0101] The rotation of the second rim 22 around the first axis can be achieved by fixing the first axis 3 relative to the second rim 22 and rotatably connecting it to the central member 1, thereby achieving relative rotation between the second rim 22 and the central member 1; or by fixing the first axis 3 relative to the central member 1 and rotatably connecting it to the second rim 22, thereby achieving relative rotation between the second rim 22 and the central member 1; or by simultaneously rotatably connecting the first axis 3 to both the central member 1 and the second rim 22, thereby achieving relative rotation between the second rim 22 and the central member 1. This application does not limit the scope of this application.

[0102] The first axis setting can effectively improve the connection strength between the second wheel rim 22 and the center piece 1, improve the stability of the stacked rotation structure, ensure the relative position accuracy and motion reliability of each component during folding, and reduce the risk of loosening or wear after long-term use.

[0103] The first rim 21 and the second rim 22 can be directly connected or indirectly connected, and this application does not limit this connection. In some embodiments, the first rim 21 and the second rim 22 are connected by a second shaft 4, and the first rim 21 can rotate downward around the second shaft 4 to rotate downward relative to the second rim 22.

[0104] The rotation of the first rim 21 around the second axis 4 can be achieved by the second axis 4 being relatively fixed to the second rim 22 and rotatably connected to the first rim 21, thereby achieving relative rotation between the second rim 22 and the first rim 21. Alternatively, the second axis 4 can be relatively fixed to the first rim 21 and rotatably connected to the second rim 22, thereby achieving relative rotation between the second rim 22 and the first rim 21. Furthermore, the second axis 4 can be rotatably connected to both the second rim 22 and the first rim 21 simultaneously, thereby achieving relative rotation between the second rim 22 and the first rim 21. This application does not impose any limitations on this approach.

[0105] The setting of the second axis 4 can effectively improve the connection strength between the second wheel rim 22 and the center piece 1, improve the stability of the stacked rotation structure, ensure the relative position accuracy and motion reliability of each component during the folding process, and reduce the risk of loosening or wear after long-term use.

[0106] When the second rim 22 is rotatably connected to the center member 1, in some embodiments, the steering wheel 10 further includes a connecting arm 5 connected to the rim 2.

[0107] The connecting arm 5 can be connected to the second wheel rim 22. Specifically, the connecting arm 5 and the second wheel rim 22 can be integrally formed or assembled together. The connecting arm 5 can also be connected to the first wheel rim 21.

[0108] The number of connecting arms 5 can be one or more. For example, there are two connecting arms 5, which are respectively located on both sides of the second wheel rim 22, and the center member is located between the two connecting arms 5. The first shaft is connected between the center member and the two connecting arms 5.

[0109] The first shaft 3 is connected between the center piece 1 and the connecting arm 5.

[0110] In this way, by extending the installation position of the first shaft 3 through the connecting arm 5, the first shaft 3 is moved away from the main body area of ​​the wheel rim 2, providing a larger lever arm and movement space for the rotation of the second wheel rim 22, avoiding structural interference caused by the direct connection between the first shaft 3 and the wheel rim 2, and improving rotational flexibility and structural compactness.

[0111] In some embodiments, a button assembly 8 is provided between the rim 2 at the 3 o'clock position and / or the 9 o'clock position, and the mating portion of the second rim 22 and the first rim 21 is offset from the button assembly 8.

[0112] This ensures the integrity of button assembly 8, reduces the need for disassembly of button assembly 8 without altering user habits, minimizes unreliable factors, and improves driving safety.

[0113] Please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the rim 2 can also switch from a first folded state to a second folded state. During the switching process, the first rim 21 rotates upward relative to the second rim 22.

[0114] The first wheel rim 21 rotating upward relative to the second wheel rim 22 means that, along the direction of the steering wheel from 10 o'clock to 3 o'clock, the first wheel rim 21 rotates counterclockwise relative to the second wheel rim 22.

[0115] With this configuration, on the one hand, the first rim 21 rotates upward relative to the second rim 22, which can effectively reduce the outward convexity of the rim relative to the center piece 1, reduce the volume of the steering wheel 10, and improve the space utilization of the steering wheel 10 after the rim is folded.

[0116] On the other hand, the upward rotation of the first wheel rim 21 relative to the second wheel rim 22 can also reduce the envelope space required for the steering wheel 10 to move during the process of the central component 1 moving from the display position to the storage position, reduce the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 in the interior space of the instrument panel 20, increase the space available for the internal mechanism of the instrument panel 20, and improve the flexibility of the arrangement of the internal mechanism of the instrument panel 20.

[0117] In some embodiments, when the wheel rim 2 is in the second folded state, the surface where the second wheel rim 22 is located is coplanar with the surface where the first wheel rim 21 is located. This reduces the size of the wheel rim 2 in the height direction of the vehicle, reduces the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 in the height direction of the vehicle, and improves the space utilization of the steering wheel 10.

[0118] In some embodiments, the center component 1 can switch between a stowed position and a display position. When the center component 1 is in the stowed position, the wheel rim 2 is in a second folded state. This reduces the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 in the height direction of the vehicle when the center component 1 is in the stowed position, and reduces the interference of the steering wheel 10 with the user's leg space after the steering wheel 10 is stowed in the lower space of the dashboard 20.

[0119] In other possible implementations, when the center component 1 is in the storage position, the wheel rim 2 may only be in the first folded state, that is, the steering wheel cancels the step of switching from the first folded state to the second folded state. This application does not limit this.

[0120] Please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 This application also proposes an instrument panel assembly 100, which includes the aforementioned steering wheel 10 and instrument panel 20. The instrument panel 20 is located between the instrument panel compartment and the driver's compartment. The instrument panel compartment 203 is located on the side of the instrument panel facing away from the driver's seat, and the driver's compartment is located on the side of the instrument panel facing the driver's seat.

[0121] The center component 1 can switch between a display position and a storage position relative to the dashboard 20, thereby enabling the steering wheel 10 to be displayed and stored. When the center component 1 is in such a position... Figure 8 When displayed in the position shown, the rim 2 of the steering wheel 10 is located on the side of the dashboard 20 facing the driver's seat for the user to grip. When the center piece 1 is in the position shown... Figure 9 When the steering wheel 10 is stored in the lower space of the dashboard 20 as shown, it reduces the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 in the user's activity space when the vehicle enters parking, autonomous driving, or other scenarios where the steering wheel 10 is not required.

[0122] Please refer to Figure 10 In some embodiments, during the process of the center component 1 switching from the storage position to the display position, the wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state. In this way, the volume of the steering wheel 10 in the height direction of the vehicle is reduced, the enveloping space required by the steering wheel 10 during the process of the center component 1 switching from the display position to the folded state for storage is reduced, the encroachment of the steering wheel 10 on the user's leg space during the storage process is reduced, and the user experience is improved.

[0123] Please refer to Figure 9 In some embodiments, a receiving space 201 is provided below the instrument panel 20, and when the center member 1 is in the storage position, the wheel rim 2 is located within the receiving space 201.

[0124] The receiving space 201 is housed within the instrument compartment 203 and located below the central component 1. Meanwhile, the instrument panel 20 may include a panel 204 and a lower guard plate 205, with the lower guard plate 205 located below the panel 204 and the receiving space 201 located below the panel 204 and extending through the lower guard plate 205.

[0125] In some embodiments, the dashboard assembly may also include an inner panel 206 connected to the lower panel 205 on the side facing away from the driver's seat, and the accommodating space 201 may also be located between the lower panel 205 and the inner panel 206.

[0126] In this way, the wheel rim 2 can be completely hidden inside the cabin by using the instrument panel 20, which effectively ensures the overall aesthetics and visual continuity of the cockpit interior when it is stowed away.

[0127] In some embodiments, the dashboard 20 also includes a notch 202 located above and communicating with the receiving space 201; when the center member 1 is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the center member 1 is disposed opposite to the notch 202 along the first axis O1.

[0128] This configuration ensures that, by positioning at least a portion of the center component 1 relative to the notch 202 along the first axis O1, the integrated functional modules such as the airbag and driver monitoring sensors within the center component 1 maintain their normal spatial layout and functional effectiveness even when stored, thus preventing the normal use of the steering wheel 10 from being affected by its storage.

[0129] On the other hand, by arranging at least a portion of the center member 1 opposite to the notch 202 along the first axis O1, the displacement path required for the steering wheel 10 in the stowed position and the unfolded state can be effectively shortened, thereby improving the stowage speed and response efficiency of the steering wheel 10.

[0130] When at least a portion of the center component 1 is disposed opposite to the notch 202 along the first axis O1, the positional relationship between the center component 1 and the notch 202 can be varied. In some embodiments, the center component 1 is located inside the notch 202, thereby sealing the notch 202 without providing an additional center component, reducing the possibility of external dust and impurities entering the interior of the instrument panel 20 through the notch 202.

[0131] Please refer to Figure 11 When the center member 1 is located within the notch 202, in some embodiments, the center member 1 and the notch 202 satisfy the following condition: there is a gap between the center member 1 and the notch 202 along the perpendicular direction of the first axis O1. When the notch 202 completely surrounds the center member 1, the gap is the distance between the center member 1 and the inner wall surface of the notch 202 along the radial direction of the center member 1; when the notch 202 partially surrounds the center member 1, the gap is the distance between the inner wall surface of the portion of the notch 202 surrounding the center member 1 and the center member 1 along the radial direction of the center member 1.

[0132] In this embodiment, the width of the gap is A, which satisfies: 0≤A≤10mm. By controlling the gap between the center component 1 and the notch 202 within the above range, the intrusion of dust, moisture and foreign objects can be effectively suppressed and the sealing performance of the instrument panel assembly 100 can be improved while ensuring that the center component 1 can move or be assembled smoothly relative to the notch 202.

[0133] Please refer to Figures 12 to 14 When the center component 1 is located within the notch 202, in some embodiments, the dashboard assembly also includes a gap filler 6, which is disposed on the dashboard 20 or the center component 1, and the projection of the gap filler 6 overlaps with the projection of the gap on a plane perpendicular to the first axis O1.

[0134] The gap filler 6 is disposed between the center part 1 and the notch 202 to fill the gap between the center part 1 and the notch 202, thereby reducing the gap between the center part 1 and the notch 202 and improving the sealing and aesthetics of the instrument panel assembly 100.

[0135] The gap filler 6 can be a rigid structure or a flexible structure, and this application does not limit this. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the gap filler 6 is an elastic material, which can be a thermoplastic elastomer, EPDM rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane, foamed sponge, or other materials with elastic properties, and this application does not limit this.

[0136] The gap filler 6 can adaptively fill the gap between the center part and the notch 202 through elastic deformation, thereby solving the problem that the rigid filler cannot fill or fills unevenly when there are problems such as excessive local gaps or uneven gap distribution between the center part and the instrument panel 20 due to manufacturing and assembly errors, thus improving the reliability of the seal.

[0137] In some embodiments, the gap filler 6 includes a first opening 61 and a second opening 62 disposed opposite to each other along the first axis O1, wherein the first opening 61 is closer to the driver's seat side than the second opening 62. Furthermore, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening 61 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second opening 62. This arrangement ensures sufficient gap filling while guiding the movement of the center member within the notch 202, improving the positioning accuracy of the center member, and enhancing the uniformity of the circumferential distance between the center member and the notch 202 after the steering wheel 10 is in the stowed position.

[0138] In some embodiments, the gap filler 6 includes a base 63 and a flexible layer 64. The base 63 serves as a support structure to maintain the overall shape and installation stability of the gap filler 6; the base 63 is connected to the instrument panel 20 to fix the gap filler 6 to the inner wall surface of the notch 202.

[0139] The base 63 can be bonded to the instrument panel 20, threadedly connected, or snap-fitted; this application does not limit this. Exemplarily, the base has a snap-fit, and the instrument panel 20 has a snap-fit ​​groove; the base is snapped into the snap-fit ​​groove via the snap-fit.

[0140] The material of the substrate 63 can be a plastic such as polypropylene, polycarbonate or nylon, or an elastic metal such as spring steel or shape memory alloy, or a hard rubber or composite material. This application does not limit the material.

[0141] For example, the base 63 is made of elastic metal, so that while providing support, the elastic deformation of the elastic metal compensates for dimensional fluctuations between the center member and the notch 202, thereby improving the filling effect of the gap filler 6 on the gap between the notch 202 and the center member.

[0142] The flexible layer 64 is disposed on the side of the substrate 63 facing the notch. The flexible layer 64 can be a thermoplastic elastomer, EPDM rubber, silicone rubber, polyurethane, foam sponge or other materials with elastic properties. This application does not limit this.

[0143] The flexible layer 64 is used to directly contact the central component and can achieve adaptive filling of the central component through elastic deformation, thereby improving the uniformity of gap filling by the gap filler 6. At the same time, the flexible layer 64 can also form a buffer between the central component and the hole wall of the notch 202, reducing the contact noise between the central component and the notch 202 and improving the quietness of the vehicle 1000.

[0144] In some embodiments, the substrate 63 has a mesh-like perforated structure, which reduces the overall weight of the gap filler 6, lowers material costs, maintains structural rigidity, and provides redundant space for the deformation of the flexible layer 64, thereby improving sealing adaptability.

[0145] In other possible implementations, the center component is located on one side of the dashboard and covers the gap, thereby completely sealing the gap and minimizing the possibility of external dust or impurities entering the dashboard through the gap.

[0146] Please refer to Figure 10 and Figure 15 In some embodiments, the steering wheel 10 also includes a toggle switch 7, which is connected to the center member 1, such as... Figure 10 As shown, in terms of positioning, the lever switch 7 usually protrudes from the side of the central component 1. This also causes the lever switch 7 to interfere with the instrument panel 20 when the central component 1 moves from the display position to the storage position, thereby hindering the normal sinking and storage of the central component 1.

[0147] To address these issues, related technologies typically involve altering the structure of the toggle switch 7, such as replacing it with a touch button or a retractable lever, or changing the size of the notch in the instrument panel 20 to increase clearance. However, changing the structure of the toggle switch 7 disrupts the driver's operating habits and affects the driving experience, while changing the structure of the instrument panel 20 increases the manufacturing cost of the dashboard assembly and hinders the standardization of the instrument panel 20's design.

[0148] Therefore, such as Figure 15 As shown, in some embodiments, during the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the central component 1 rotates downward so that the lever switch 7 avoids the instrument panel. That is, the central component moves from the display position to the avoidance position. When the central component is in the avoidance position, the projection of the lever switch 7 along the axis of the central component falls outside the projection of the instrument panel 20 along the first direction. In this way, without changing the original shape of the lever switch 7 or the original appearance structure of the instrument panel 20, the lever switch 7 naturally avoids the edge contour of the instrument panel 20 by rotating the central component 1 downward as a whole, thus completing the storage of the steering wheel 10, maintaining the complete functionality and operating feel of the lever switch 7, and reducing the manufacturing cost of the instrument panel assembly.

[0149] Please refer to Figure 16 In some embodiments, during the switching process of the center component 1 from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch 7 is located in the instrument compartment 203, the center component 1 rotates upward. This increases the distance between the steering wheel 10 and the user's legs when the center component 1 is in the storage position, reduces the encroachment of the steering wheel 10 on the user's leg space when the center component 1 is in the storage position, increases the user's leg movement space after the steering wheel 10 is folded, and improves the user experience.

[0150] Please refer to Figures 8 to 10 This application also proposes a controller configured as follows: During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the entire rim 2 is controlled to rotate downward relative to the center piece 1, and the first rim 21 rotates downward relative to the second rim 22.

[0151] Thus, on the one hand, when the wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, the entire wheel rim rotates relative to the center member 1, and the first wheel rim 21 inside the wheel rim rotates relative to the second wheel rim 22. This reduces the size of the wheel rim in the plane perpendicular to the first axis O1 during the folding process, thus avoiding interference with the center member 1, the instrument panel 20, and other surrounding components during rotation, allowing the steering wheel 10 to be folded to the target state. Moreover, when the wheel rim is in the folded state, the entire wheel rim rotates relative to the center member 1 to achieve a first fold, and the second wheel rim 22 rotates relative to the first wheel rim 21 to achieve a second fold. This reduces the size of the steering wheel 10 in the folded state, saving space when the steering wheel 10 is stored inside the instrument panel 20.

[0152] On the other hand, the downward rotation of the second wheel rim 22 allows the wheel rim 2 to be fully housed in the lower space of the dashboard 20, reducing the impact of the steering wheel 10 on the user's activity space in the cockpit. Meanwhile, the first wheel rim 21 can release the space near the driver's seat by rotating downward relative to the second wheel rim 22 during the downward flipping of the wheel rim as a whole, reducing the encroachment of the wheel rim 2's downward flipping on the user's legroom and improving the user experience.

[0153] There are several ways in which the controller can control the downward rotation of the second wheel rim 22 and the first wheel rim 21. In some embodiments, the controller is configured as follows: During the process of switching from the unfolded state to the first folded state, while controlling the wheel rim 2 to rotate downward relative to the center piece 1, the first wheel rim 21 is controlled to rotate downward relative to the second wheel rim 22.

[0154] In this way, while the rim 2 rotates relative to the center piece 1, the lower space of the rim 2 is released, thereby increasing the rotatable angle of the rim, shortening the total folding time of the steering wheel 10, and improving the folding efficiency of the steering wheel 10.

[0155] In some implementations, the controller is configured to: During the process of switching the rim 2 from the unfolded state to the first folded state, after controlling the rim 2 to rotate downward relative to the center piece 1, the first rim 21 is controlled to rotate downward relative to the second rim 22.

[0156] This is to prevent the first wheel edge 21 from rotating too early, which would encroach on the user's leg movement space and affect the user experience.

[0157] In some implementations, the controller is configured to: During the process of switching the rim from the unfolded state to the first folded state, after controlling the first rim 21 to rotate downward relative to the second rim 22, the rim 2 as a whole is controlled to rotate downward relative to the center piece 1.

[0158] In this way, the lower space of the rim 2 is released in advance, reducing the possibility of the rim 2 interfering with the center piece 1 during rotation.

[0159] In some implementations, the controller is configured as follows: During the process of switching the central component 1 from the display position to the storage position, the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

[0160] Thus, on the one hand, when the wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, the wheel rim 2 as a whole rotates relative to the center member 1, and the first wheel rim 21 inside the wheel rim 2 rotates relative to the second wheel rim 22. This can reduce the size of the wheel rim 2 in the plane perpendicular to the first axis O1 during the folding process, so as to avoid interference with the center member 1, the instrument panel 20 and other surrounding components during the rotation, so that the steering wheel 10 can be folded to the target state. Moreover, when the wheel rim 2 is in the folded state, the wheel rim 2 as a whole rotates relative to the center member 1 to achieve a first fold, and the second wheel rim 22 rotates relative to the first wheel rim 21 to achieve a second fold. This can reduce the size of the steering wheel 10 in the folded state and save the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 when it is stored inside the instrument panel 20.

[0161] On the other hand, the downward rotation of the second wheel rim 22 allows the entire wheel rim to be housed within the lower space of the dashboard 20, reducing the impact of the steering wheel 10 on the user's activity space in the cockpit. Meanwhile, the first wheel rim 21 can release the space near the driver's seat by rotating downward relative to the second wheel rim 22 during the downward flipping of the entire wheel rim 2, reducing the encroachment of the entire downward flipping of the wheel rim 2 on the user's legroom and improving the user experience.

[0162] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: After the rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the first rim 21 is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim 22 so that the rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state.

[0163] Thus, on the one hand, the first rim 21 rotates upward relative to the second rim 22, which can effectively reduce the outward convexity of the rim 2 relative to the center piece 1, reduce the volume of the steering wheel 10, and improve the space utilization of the steering wheel 10 after the rim is folded.

[0164] On the other hand, the upward rotation of the first wheel rim 21 relative to the second wheel rim 22 can also reduce the envelope space required for the steering wheel 10 to move during the process of the central component 1 moving from the display position to the storage position, reduce the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 in the interior space of the instrument panel 20, increase the space available for the internal mechanism of the instrument panel 20, and improve the flexibility of the arrangement of the internal mechanism of the instrument panel 20.

[0165] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the control center 1 rotates downward so that the lever switch 7 avoids the instrument panel 20.

[0166] In this way, without changing the original shape of the lever switch 7 or the original appearance of the instrument panel 20, the lever switch 7 can be naturally avoided by rotating the center part 1 downwards to make the instrument panel 20's edge contour, thus completing the storage of the steering wheel 10, maintaining the complete functionality and operating feel of the lever switch 7, and reducing the manufacturing cost of the instrument panel assembly.

[0167] The downward rotation of the center component 1 and the switching of the wheel rim 2 from the unfolded state to the first folded state can be performed simultaneously or sequentially; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0168] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: While the control center component 1 rotates downward, the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, thereby shortening the storage time of the steering wheel 10 and improving the storage efficiency of the steering wheel 10.

[0169] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: After the control center component 1 is rotated downwards, the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, so that the controller can retract the center component 1 from the display position to the storage position at a faster speed, thereby increasing the retraction speed of the steering wheel 10.

[0170] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: After the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the control center component 1 rotates downward. In this way, before the center component 1 rotates downward, the rotation of the second wheel rim 22 and the first wheel rim 21 reduces the space occupied by the steering wheel 10 in the height space of the vehicle, reduces the volume of the wheel rim 2, reduces the enveloping space requirement of the center component 1 during downward rotation, reduces the encroachment of the steering wheel 10 on the user's legs, and improves the user experience.

[0171] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: During the transition of the central component 1 from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch 7 is located below the instrument compartment 203, the central component 1 is controlled to rotate upward. "Lever switch 7 is located below the instrument compartment 203" means that, along the height direction of the vehicle, the projection of the lever switch 7 is completely within the projection of the instrument compartment 203.

[0172] In this way, the distance between the steering wheel 10 and the user's legs is increased when the center component 1 is in the storage position, the encroachment of the steering wheel 10 on the user's leg space is reduced when the center component 1 is in the storage position, the user's leg space is increased after the steering wheel 10 is folded, and the user experience is improved.

[0173] The downward rotation of the center component 1 and the switching of the wheel flange 2 from the first folded state to the second folded state can be performed simultaneously or sequentially; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0174] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: While the control center component 1 rotates upward, it controls the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second wheel rim 22, so that the wheel rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state. In this way, the total time for the steering wheel 10 to be stored is shortened and the storage efficiency of the steering wheel 10 is improved.

[0175] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: After the control center component 1 rotates upward, it controls the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second wheel rim 22, so that the wheel rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state. In this way, by rotating the center component 1 upward, the distance between the steering wheel 10 and the user's legs is increased, and the encroachment of the first wheel rim 21 on the user's leg space during the subsequent upward rotation is reduced, thereby improving the user experience.

[0176] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: Controlling the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second wheel rim 22, so that the wheel rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state, then controlling the center component 1 to rotate upward. In this way, before the center component 1 rotates upward, by controlling the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward, the volume occupied by the wheel rim 2 in the height direction of the vehicle is reduced, the envelope space requirement during the downward rotation of the center component 1 is reduced, and the space encroachment of the steering wheel 10 movement on other components is reduced.

[0177] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: During the process of switching the center component 1 from the display position to the storage position, the center component 1 is controlled to move away from the driver's seat, so as to store the steering wheel inside the dashboard.

[0178] In some implementations, the controller is also configured to: While controlling the central component 1 to move away from the driver's seat, the central component 1 rotates downwards, so that the steering wheel can be stored while the lever switch avoids the dashboard, thus improving the storage efficiency of the steering wheel.

[0179] In some implementations, the controller is further configured to: After the control center component 1 is rotated downwards, it is controlled to move away from the driver's seat. In this way, while ensuring that the steering wheel can be successfully stored, the control cycle of the center component 1 is simplified and the design difficulty of the movement of the center component 1 is reduced.

[0180] This application also proposes a control method applied to a steering wheel 10, comprising: during the process of switching the wheel rim from an unfolded state to a first folded state, controlling the second wheel rim 22 to rotate downward relative to the center member 1 around the first axis 3, and the first wheel rim 21 to rotate downward relative to the second wheel rim 22.

[0181] In some embodiments, controlling the rim 2 to rotate downward relative to the center member 1, and the first rim 21 to rotate downward relative to the second rim 22, includes: While controlling the rim 2 to rotate downwards relative to the center piece 1, control the first rim 21 to rotate relative to the second rim 22; or, After controlling the rim 2 to rotate downwards relative to the center piece 1, control the first rim 21 to rotate relative to the second rim 22; or, After controlling the first rim 21 to rotate downward relative to the second rim 22, control the rim 2 as a whole to rotate downward relative to the center piece 1.

[0182] In some implementations, the control method further includes: Control the steering wheel 10 to switch from the display position to the storage position; During the process of switching the central component 1 from the display position to the storage position, the control wheel rim switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

[0183] After the control rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, it also includes: Control the first rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second rim 22, so that the rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state.

[0184] In some implementations, the control method further includes: During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the control center 1 rotates downward so that the projection of the lever switch 7 along the first axis O1 falls outside the projection of the instrument panel 20 along the first direction.

[0185] In some embodiments, the control center 1 rotates downward, including: As the control center component 1 rotates downwards, the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state; or, After the control center component 1 rotates downwards, the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state; or, After the control wheel rim 2 switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the control center component 1 rotates downward.

[0186] Control methods also include: During the process of switching the central component 1 from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch 7 is in the storage space 201, it controls the central component 1 to rotate upward.

[0187] In some embodiments, the upward rotation of the control center 1 includes: While the control center component 1 rotates upward, it also controls the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second wheel rim 22, so that the wheel rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; or After the control center component 1 rotates upward, it controls the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second wheel rim 22, so that the wheel rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; or The controller is also configured to control the first wheel rim 21 to rotate upward relative to the second wheel rim 22, so that after the wheel rim 2 switches from the first folded state to the second folded state, the control center component 1 rotates upward.

[0188] This application also provides a controller including a processor and a memory. The memory stores processor-executable instructions; when the processor is configured to execute the instructions, the controller causes the controller to implement the control method as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0189] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer software program; when the computer software program is run in a controller, it causes the controller to implement the control method as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0190] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program; when the computer program runs in a controller, it causes the controller to implement the control method as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0191] The transportation vehicle provided in this application may further include the controller of the above embodiments; or the computer-readable storage medium of the above embodiments.

[0192] In the description of the embodiments of this application, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0193] The above are merely specific embodiments 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 scope of the technology 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 steering wheel (10) applied to an instrument panel assembly, the instrument panel assembly including an instrument panel, the steering wheel including a center element (1), a rim (2) and a lever switch (7), the rim (2) being switchable between an unfolded state and a first folded state, characterized in that, The rim (2) includes a first rim (21) and a second rim (22). When the rim (2) is in the unfolded state, along the 12 o'clock direction (10a) of the rim, the first rim (21) is located above the second rim (22). During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the entire rim (2) rotates downward relative to the center member (1) around the first axis (3), and the first rim (21) rotates downward relative to the second rim (22). The central component (1) can switch between a storage position and a display position relative to the instrument panel. During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the central component (1) rotates downward so that the lever switch (7) avoids the instrument panel.

2. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the 6 o'clock direction (10c) or 12 o'clock direction (10a) of the rim, the size of the second rim (22) is K1, and the size of the first rim (21) is K2; K1 > K2; Alternatively, K1 and K2 satisfy: 1 / 4≤K2 / K1≤2 / 5; or, 1 / 4≤K2 / K1≤1 / 2.

3. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The circumference of the rim (2) is C1, and the length of the first rim (21) is C2, 1 / 5≤C2 / C1≤1 / 2.

4. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the wheel rim (2) is in the first folded state, the second wheel rim (22) is located on one side of the first axis (O1), and the first wheel rim (21) is located on the side of the second wheel rim (22) facing away from the first axis (O1). The first axis (O1) is the axis of the output end of the steering column connected to the steering wheel (10).

5. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the second rim (22) relative to the center member (1) is smaller than the rotation angle of the first rim (21) relative to the second rim (22).

6. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the process of the wheel rim (2) switching from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the first wheel rim (21) relative to the second wheel rim (22) is E, and E satisfies any interval of [0°, 180°]; the rotation angle of the second wheel rim (22) relative to the first wheel rim (21) is F, and F satisfies any interval of [-180°, 0°]. E and F satisfy: 120°≤EF≤180°; or, 160°≤EF≤180°.

7. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the transition from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the rotation angle of the second wheel rim (22) relative to the center member (1) is G, which satisfies: 75°≤G≤100°.

8. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first shaft (3) is parallel to the 3 o'clock direction (10b) or the 9 o'clock direction (10d) of the rim.

9. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the rim (2) is in the first folded state, the rim (2) is located on the first side of the first axis (O1); The first shaft (3) is located on the second side of the first axis (O1), the second side being opposite to the first side, and the first axis (O1) is the rotation axis for the steering wheel (10) to drive the wheels to turn.

10. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering wheel (10) further includes a connecting arm (5) connected to the wheel rim (2), and the first shaft (3) is connected between the center member (1) and the connecting arm (5); and / or The connecting arm (5) is connected to the second rim (22); and / or The connecting arm (5) and the second wheel rim (22) are an integral part.

11. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering wheel (10) also includes two connecting arms (5), which are respectively located on both sides of the second wheel rim (22), and the center member (1) is located between the two connecting arms (5). The first shaft (3) is connected between the center member (1) and the two connecting arms (5).

12. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At the 3 o'clock and / or 9 o'clock positions of the rim, a button assembly (8) is provided between the rim (2) and the center member (1), and the mating part (T) of the second rim (22) and the first rim (21) is offset from the button assembly (8).

13. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rim (2) can also switch from a first folded state to a second folded state; During the process of switching the rim (2) from the first folded state to the second folded state, the first rim (21) rotates upward relative to the second rim (22).

14. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, When the rim (2) is in the second folded state, the surface where the second rim (22) is located and the surface where the first rim (21) is located are coplanar.

15. The steering wheel (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The central component (1) can switch between a storage position and a display position. When the central component (1) is in the storage position, the wheel rim (2) is in either the second folded state or the first folded state; and / or When the central component (1) is in the exhibited position, the rim (2) is in the unfolded state.

16. An instrument panel assembly (100), characterized in that, Includes the steering wheel (10) as described in any one of claims 1-15.

17. The instrument panel assembly (100) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The instrument panel assembly (100) includes an instrument panel (20), and the central component (1) is switchable between a storage position and a display position relative to the instrument panel (20); During the process of the central component (1) switching from the display position to the storage position, the wheel rim (2) switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

18. The instrument panel assembly (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The instrument panel (20) has a storage space (201) below it, and when the center piece (1) is in the storage position, the wheel rim (2) is located in the storage space (201).

19. The instrument panel assembly (100) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The dashboard (20) also includes a notch (202) located above and communicating with the receiving space (201); When the central component (1) is in the storage position, along the first axis (O1), the projection of the central component (1) overlaps with the projection of the notch (202); Wherein, the first axis (O1) is the axis of the output end of the steering column connected to the steering wheel.

20. The instrument panel assembly (100) according to claim 19, characterized in that, When the central component is in the storage position, the central component (1) is located within the notch (202) and satisfies: Along the perpendicular direction of the first axis (O1), there is a gap between the center member (1) and the notch (202), the width of the gap is A, A satisfies: 0≤A≤10mm, and / or, the instrument panel assembly (100) further includes a gap filler (6), the gap filler (6) is disposed on the instrument panel (20) or the center member, and on a plane perpendicular to the first axis (O1), the projection of the gap filler (6) overlaps with the projection of the gap; Alternatively, the center member (1) and the notch (202) satisfy: The center piece (1) is located on one side of the dashboard (20) and covers the notch (202).

21. The instrument panel assembly (100) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The space on the side of the dashboard (20) facing away from the driver's seat is the instrument compartment (203); During the process of switching the central component (1) from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch (7) is located below the instrument compartment, the central component (1) rotates upward.

22. A controller for controlling a steering wheel (10) applied to an instrument panel assembly, the instrument panel assembly including an instrument panel, the steering wheel (10) including a center element (1), a rim (2), and a toggle switch (7); the rim (2) being switchable between an unfolded state and a first folded state, characterized in that, The rim (2) includes a first rim (21) and a second rim (22), the second rim (22) being connected to the center member (1). When the rim (2) is in the unfolded state, along the 12 o'clock direction (10a) of the rim, the first rim (21) is located above the second rim (22). The controller is configured as follows: During the process of switching the wheel rim (2) from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the wheel rim as a whole is controlled to rotate downward relative to the center member (1), and the first wheel rim (21) rotates downward relative to the second wheel rim (22); During the process of switching the central component (1) from the display position to the storage position, the central component (1) is controlled to rotate downward so that the lever switch (7) avoids the instrument panel (20).

23. The controller according to claim 22, characterized in that, The controller is configured to: During the process of the wheel flange (2) switching from the unfolded state to the first folded state, while controlling the wheel flange as a whole to rotate downward relative to the center member (1), the first wheel flange (21) is controlled to rotate downward relative to the second wheel flange (22); Alternatively, the controller is configured as follows: During the process of switching the rim (2) from the unfolded state to the first folded state, after controlling the rim as a whole to rotate downward relative to the center member (1), the first rim (21) is controlled to rotate downward relative to the second rim (22); Alternatively, the controller is configured as follows: During the process of switching the rim (2) from the unfolded state to the first folded state, after controlling the first rim (21) to rotate downward relative to the second rim (22), the entire rim is controlled to rotate downward relative to the center member (1).

24. The controller according to claim 22, characterized in that, The steering wheel (10) can be switched between an exhibition position and a storage position, and the controller is configured as follows: During the process of the central component (1) switching from the display position to the storage position, the wheel rim (2) is controlled to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

25. The controller according to claim 24, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: After the rim (2) switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the first rim (21) is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim (22) so that the rim (2) switches from the first folded state to the second folded state.

26. The controller according to claim 22, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: While controlling the center component (1) to rotate downwards, the wheel rim (2) switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After the central component (1) is rotated downwards, the rim (2) switches from the unfolded state to the first folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After the wheel rim (2) is switched from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the center piece (1) rotates downward.

27. The controller according to claim 22, characterized in that, The space on the side of the dashboard (20) facing away from the driver's seat is the instrument compartment (203); the controller is also configured to: During the process of switching the central component (1) from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch (7) is located below the instrument compartment (203), the central component (1) is controlled to rotate upward.

28. The controller according to claim 27, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: While controlling the center component (1) to rotate upward, the first rim (21) is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim (22) so that the rim (2) switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After controlling the center component (1) to rotate upward, the first rim (21) is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim (22) so that the rim (2) switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After controlling the first rim (21) to rotate upward relative to the second rim (22) so that the rim (2) switches from the first folded state to the second folded state, the center member (1) is controlled to rotate upward.

29. The controller according to claim 22, characterized in that, The controller is configured to: During the process of switching the central component (1) from the display position to the storage position, the central component (1) is controlled to move away from the driver's seat.

30. The controller according to claim 29, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to: While controlling the central component (1) to move away from the driver's seat, the central component (1) rotates downward; Alternatively, the controller may also be configured to: After the control center component (1) rotates downward, the control center component (1) moves away from the driver's seat.

31. A control method applied to a steering wheel, the steering wheel being applied to an instrument panel assembly, the instrument panel assembly including an instrument panel, the steering wheel including a center element, a rim, and a toggle switch; the rim being switchable between an unfolded state and a first folded state, characterized in that, The rim includes a first rim and a second rim. When the rim is in the unfolded state, the first rim is located above the second rim along the 12 o'clock direction of the rim. The control method includes: During the process of switching the wheel flange from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the wheel flange as a whole is controlled to rotate downward about the first axis relative to the center member, and the first wheel flange rotates downward relative to the second wheel flange. During the switching process from the display position to the storage position, the central component is controlled to rotate downward so that the toggle switch avoids the dashboard.

32. The control method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The control of the wheel rim to rotate downward relative to the center member, and the control of the first wheel rim to rotate downward relative to the second wheel rim, includes: While controlling the entire rim to rotate downwards relative to the center member, simultaneously control the first rim to rotate relative to the second rim; or, After controlling the entire rim to rotate downwards relative to the center member, control the first rim to rotate relative to the second rim; or, After controlling the first rim to rotate downward relative to the second rim, control the entire rim to rotate downward relative to the center member.

33. The control method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The steering wheel can be switched between an on-screen position and a storage position, and the control method further includes: Control the steering wheel to switch from the display position to the storage position; During the process of the central component switching from the display position to the storage position, the wheel rim is controlled to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state.

34. The control method according to claim 33, characterized in that, After controlling the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the method further includes: Control the first rim to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state.

35. The control method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The control of the central component to rotate downward includes: While controlling the central component to rotate downwards, control the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state; or, After controlling the central component to rotate downwards, control the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state; or, After controlling the wheel rim to switch from the unfolded state to the first folded state, the center component is controlled to rotate downwards.

36. The control method according to claim 34, characterized in that, The space on the side of the dashboard facing away from the driver's seat is the instrument compartment, and the control method further includes: During the process of switching the central component from the display position to the storage position, when the lever switch is located below the instrument compartment, it controls the central component to rotate upward.

37. The control method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The control of the central component to rotate upward includes: While controlling the center component to rotate upward, the first rim is also controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; or After controlling the center member to rotate upward, the first rim is controlled to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state; or Control the first rim to rotate upward relative to the second rim, so that the rim switches from the first folded state to the second folded state, and then control the center member to rotate upward.

38. The control method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The control method further includes: During the process of switching the central component (1) from the display position to the storage position, the central component is controlled to move away from the driver's seat.

39. The control method according to claim 38, characterized in that, The control method further includes: controlling the central component to move away from the driver's seat while simultaneously rotating the central component downward; or After controlling the central component to rotate downwards, control the central component to move away from the driver's seat.

40. A controller, characterized in that, It includes a processor and a memory; the memory stores instructions executable by the processor; when the processor is configured to execute the instructions, it causes the controller to implement the control method according to any one of claims 31-39.

41. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program; when the computer program is executed, it is able to implement the control method according to any one of claims 31-39.

42. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program; when the computer program is executed, it is capable of implementing the control method according to any one of claims 31-39.

43. A transportation vehicle, characterized in that, The invention includes a steering wheel (10) as described in any one of claims 1-15; or an instrument panel assembly (100) as described in any one of claims 16-21; or a controller as described in any one of claims 22-30; or a controller as described in claim 40; or a computer-readable storage medium as described in claim 41; or a computer program product as described in claim 42.

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