Steering device for a motor vehicle, method for operating a steering device and motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering device for a motor vehicle, comprising a steering wheel (10) which is coupled with a steering column (8). The steering wheel comprises a steering wheel body (1) and wings (3), for example a pair of wings which are arranged opposite one another on both sides of the steering wheel body, which wings are connected with the steering wheel body in a pivotable manner at a first end by means of a swivel axis (5) and have a grip (4) on a second end. The wings have a functional position in which they rest on the steering wheel body, the grips are above the respective swivel axis and the grips can be held in order to steer the steering wheel. Preferably, the steering device comprises an electric drive (20) for driving the wings in a pivoting movement about the respective swivel axis, so that the wings can be pivoted about the swivel axis downwards from the functional position into a rest position and upwards back into the functional position. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle having a steering device and to a method for operating a steering device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a steering device for a motor vehicle, a method for operating the steering device, a motor vehicle including such a steering device, a computer-readable storage medium, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of automotive technology, foldable steering systems are known in principle from the prior art, in which the steering wheel is at least partially foldable, and at least one section of the steering wheel rim is rotatable by means of a mechanical hinge mechanism. For example, patent documents DE102020108454A1, CN118991901A, US12030547B2, and CN117104329A can be consulted for examples of foldable steering systems. In these known foldable steering systems, the foldability of the steering wheel is very limited. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this application is to provide a steering device for a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle having such a steering device, and a method for operating the steering device, wherein the steering wheel is capable of being switched to a functional position and from a functional position to a non-functional position, thereby freeing up additional usable space in the motor vehicle, especially when the steering device includes a retractable steering column.

[0004] A first aspect of the invention proposes a steering device for a motor vehicle, the steering device including a steering wheel coupled to a steering column, the steering wheel including a steering wheel body and at least one wing, the wing being pivotally connected to the steering wheel body at a first end via a pivot and having a handle at a second end opposite to the first end. The wing is pivotable about a corresponding pivot between a functional position and a rest position. In the functional position, the wing rests against the steering wheel body, the handle is above the corresponding pivot, and the handle can be gripped for operating the steering wheel. When the wing pivots from the functional position to the rest position, the wing separates from the steering wheel body.

[0005] In the steering device according to the invention, the wings can move as if flapping a bird's wings in flight. This advantageously allows for a smaller steering wheel size when the wings are pivoted around a corresponding axis to a resting position, for example, providing more resting space for the user in the cabin. Additionally, it is also possible to implement welcome and / or farewell modes for the user by means of the movement of the wings. For example, in some applications, the deployment of the wings can indicate a welcome to the user taking over the steering wheel.

[0006] In the context of this invention, the concept of a "steering wheel" can be generally understood as a steering input device for applying steering expectations. In one embodiment, such a steering input device may have a completely annular rim, as is widely used in current automobiles. In another embodiment, such a steering input device may also have at least one rim segment, for example, exactly two or four rim segments, which do not form a completely annular rim.

[0007] In the context of this invention, the functional position can be an upper terminal position, and the rest position can be a lower terminal position. The rest position can also be referred to as a predetermined non-functional position.

[0008] In some embodiments, the steering wheel includes a pair of wings. Preferably, the pair of wings are positioned opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body about an axis of rotation defined by the steering column.

[0009] In some embodiments, the steering wheel includes two pairs of winglets. Each pair of winglets is positioned opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body about an axis of rotation defined by the steering column, with the winglets distributed circumferentially about the axis of rotation, for example, evenly spaced at 90° intervals. In an advantageous further embodiment, the handles with a total of four winglets can collectively form a substantially completely annular rim in their functional positions.

[0010] In some embodiments, the steering wheel includes three fins distributed circumferentially about the axis of rotation, for example, evenly spaced at 120° intervals. In a first advantageous further embodiment, the three finned handles can collectively form a substantially completely annular rim in their functional positions. In a second advantageous further embodiment, the three finned handles can each have an extension of approximately 60° circumferentially about the axis of rotation in their functional positions, forming three circumferentially separated rim segments.

[0011] In some embodiments, the steering mechanism includes an electrically driven device for driving the wings to pivot about a corresponding pivot axis, such that the pair of wings can pivot downward about the pivot axis away from the steering wheel body from a functional position and pivot upward about the pivot axis back to the functional position.

[0012] In some implementations, the motor vehicle may be a two-wheeled vehicle, such as a passenger car or a commercial vehicle, such as a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle.

[0013] In some embodiments, at the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-moving of the vehicle, the pair of wings are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body in the lateral direction of the steering device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the pair of wings and / or the steering wheel body are substantially symmetrical about a longitudinal midplane passing through the axis of rotation.

[0015] In some embodiments, the pivots of the pair of wings are arranged symmetrically about the axis of rotation defined by the steering column.

[0016] In some embodiments, at the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-moving of the vehicle, the axis of rotation of the wing, especially the axis of rotation of the pair of wing, extends substantially in the longitudinal direction of the steering device.

[0017] In some implementations, in the rest position or the non-functional position, the handle is located below the corresponding pivot.

[0018] In some embodiments, each wing has an angular travel of more than 90°, for example, between 100° and 180°, between its functional and non-functional positions. For example, in one embodiment, starting from the functional position, the planar segment of each wing reaches a generally horizontal position when the wing rotates approximately 45°, and then the wing reaches a predetermined non-functional position when it rotates another approximately 90° to 120°. At this point, each wing has an angular travel of approximately 135° to 165°.

[0019] In some embodiments, regarding the rotation axis defined by the steering column, in the functional position, the handle is radially outside the corresponding rotation axis, and in the non-functional position, the handle is radially closer to the rotation axis compared to the functional position. Preferably, in the non-functional position, the handle and the rotation axis have substantially the same radial position.

[0020] In some embodiments, the steering device includes an airbag integrated into the steering wheel body, wherein, in the projection along the axis of rotation defined by the steering column, the handle is outside the airbag in the functional position and overlaps with the airbag in the non-functional position.

[0021] In some embodiments, the wing has planar sections that transition to a handle via transition sections, the handle extending substantially in the circumferential direction of the steering device with respect to the axis of rotation defined by the steering column.

[0022] In some embodiments, the handle extends beyond the planar section at least on one side, particularly on both sides, in the circumferential direction.

[0023] In some implementations, with respect to the rotation axis defined by the steering column, the extension angle of each handle is less than 120°, for example, between 30° and 100°, or between 45° and 90°.

[0024] In some implementations, the rim of the steering wheel is formed solely by the handle of the pair of wings.

[0025] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the transition section facing the steering wheel body and the outer surface of the steering wheel body facing the wing are complementary, such that the transition section is planarly attached to the steering wheel body in the functional position.

[0026] In some embodiments, the steering wheel body is configured to taper downwards.

[0027] In some embodiments, at the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-moving motion of the vehicle, the steering wheel body is formed to taper outward in the lateral direction from the longitudinal midplane.

[0028] In some embodiments, the steering wheel body is larger in the lateral direction than in the longitudinal direction, preferably the lateral dimension of the steering wheel body is 1.35 to 2.0 times, for example, about 1.5 times, the longitudinal dimension.

[0029] In some embodiments, the steering wheel body has a surrounding periphery about a rotation axis defined by the steering column.

[0030] In some embodiments, at the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-going of the vehicle, the periphery has narrow sides facing each other in the lateral direction of the steering device, and the pair of wings are disposed on these two narrow sides.

[0031] In some embodiments, the steering device includes a steering column guard disposed below the steering wheel body.

[0032] In some embodiments, the steering column guard has at least one, and in particular a pair, recesses in which the handle of the wing is received in the corresponding recesses in the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-going of the vehicle, and in the non-functional position.

[0033] In some embodiments, the steering column is telescopic, and the steering wheel body coupled to the steering column and preferably the steering column guard can rise and fall in response to the telescopic movement of the steering column.

[0034] In some embodiments, the steering mechanism includes a controller configured to at least control the electric drive unit. Additionally, the controller may also be configured to control the telescopic movement of the telescopic steering column.

[0035] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to implement a welcome mode for the steering mechanism, wherein the wings, in particular the pair of wings, are switched at least once, for example exactly once or more, between a position away from the steering wheel body, in particular a predetermined non-functional position and a functional position, by an electric drive activated by the controller, and finally to the functional position, preferably switching from the predetermined non-functional position to the functional position in one go.

[0036] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to implement a farewell mode of the steering mechanism, wherein the wings, in particular the pair of wings, are switched at least once, for example exactly once or more, between a position away from the steering wheel body, in particular a predetermined non-functional position and a functional position, by an electric drive activated by the controller, and finally to a position away from the steering wheel body, in particular a predetermined non-functional position, preferably a single transition from the functional position to the predetermined non-functional position.

[0037] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to, when the steering device is in a welcome mode, cause the steering wheel body coupled to the steering column to rise in response to the extension of the steering column, and initiate the movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body by activating an electric drive during or after the rise of the steering wheel body.

[0038] In some implementations, when the steering device is in a farewell mode, the steering device is returned to or held in an initial position corresponding to the straight-line movement of the vehicle. The movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body is initiated by activating the electric drive device. During or after the movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body, the steering wheel body coupled to the steering column descends in response to the shortening of the steering column.

[0039] In some embodiments, the electric drive unit includes a common motor mounted to the steering wheel body, the motor being coupled to a first wing of the pair of wings via a first transmission device, and the motor being coupled to a second wing of the pair of wings via a second transmission device, preferably the first transmission device and the second transmission device having the same transmission ratio.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first and / or second transmission device may be a gear transmission device. Alternatively, flexible shaft transmission or wire rope transmission are also considered.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first transmission device includes an output worm gear of a motor and a worm wheel of the shaft of the first wing that meshes with the output worm gear.

[0042] In some embodiments, the second transmission device includes an output worm gear of a motor, a first composite transmission component, a transmission shaft, a second composite transmission component, and an input gear of the second wing. The first composite transmission component includes a first worm wheel and a first worm, the first worm wheel meshing with the output worm gear of the motor, and the first worm meshing with a worm wheel at a first end of the transmission shaft. The second composite transmission component includes a second worm wheel and an output gear, the worm at a second end of the transmission shaft meshing with the second worm wheel, and the output gear of the second composite transmission component meshing with the input gear of the second wing.

[0043] In some implementations, each wing is equipped with a separate motor having an output worm gear, and the corresponding wing has a worm wheel that meshes with the output worm gear.

[0044] In some embodiments, the wing and steering wheel body have a load-bearing structure that functions together in a circumferential direction in a functional position, the load-bearing structure being able to transfer loads between the wing and steering wheel body in the circumferential direction.

[0045] In some embodiments, one of the wing and the steering wheel body has a recess, and the other of the wing and the steering wheel body has a protrusion that engages with the recess in a functional position. The recess and the protrusion form a load-bearing structure in the circumferential direction in the functional position.

[0046] A second aspect of the invention proposes a motor vehicle, particularly a two-wheeled vehicle, which includes a steering device according to any embodiment of the invention.

[0047] In some implementations, the motor vehicle may be a passenger car or a commercial vehicle, such as a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle.

[0048] A third aspect of the invention proposes a method for operating a steering device to achieve a welcome mode for a user, wherein an electric drive device is activated such that the wings, in particular the pair of wings, transition at least once, for example exactly once or more, between a position away from the steering wheel body, in particular a predetermined non-functional position and a functional position, and finally be in the functional position, preferably transitioning from the predetermined non-functional position to the functional position in one transition.

[0049] In some embodiments, the method involves extending the retractable steering column, causing the steering wheel body coupled to the steering column to rise in response to the extension of the steering column, and initiating movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body during or after the rise of the steering wheel body.

[0050] In some implementations, an opening signal from a vehicle door is acquired, and a state change from an idle to an occupied state of the driver's seat is acquired. The method is then initiated based on the opening signal and the state change. For example, a welcome mode for the steering system can be activated when the driver opens the driver's side door and then sits in the driver's seat. Additionally, detecting whether the driver is wearing a seatbelt can also be performed.

[0051] In some implementations, a start signal is received to initiate the method, and then the method is initiated. For example, a user may issue such a start signal via a button on the control panel of the steering wheel body, or by voice control or gesture control.

[0052] A fourth aspect of the invention proposes a method for operating a steering device to achieve a farewell mode for a user, wherein an electric drive device is activated such that the wings, in particular the pair of wings, change at least once, for example exactly once or more, between a position away from the steering wheel body, in particular a predetermined non-functional position and a functional position, and finally be in a position away from the steering wheel body, in particular a predetermined non-functional position, preferably changing from the functional position to the predetermined non-functional position in one go.

[0053] In some embodiments, the method involves returning or maintaining the steering device to an initial position corresponding to the straight-line movement of the vehicle, and then initiating the movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body.

[0054] In some embodiments, during the movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body or after the movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body ends, the retractable steering column is shortened, so that the steering wheel body coupled to the steering column descends in response to the shortening of the steering column.

[0055] In some implementations, an opening signal of the vehicle door is acquired, and a state change of the driver's seat from an occupied state to an vacant state is acquired, and the method is initiated based on the opening signal and the state change. For example, the farewell mode of the steering mechanism can be activated when the driver opens the driver's side door and then gets up from the driver's seat.

[0056] In some implementations, a start signal is received to initiate the method, and then the method is initiated. For example, a user may issue such a start signal via a button on the control panel of the steering wheel body, or by voice control or gesture control.

[0057] A fifth aspect of the invention proposes a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program comprising instructions that, when implemented, cause the implementation of a method for operating a steering device.

[0058] In some implementations, the computer-readable storage medium is, for example, a replaceable disk drive, a data disk, or a fixed-mount disk drive.

[0059] Additionally, a computer program product is proposed, comprising a computer program containing instructions that, when implemented, cause the implementation of a method for operating a steering device.

[0060] Computer program products can be implemented as computer-readable instruction code in any suitable programming language and / or machine language. Computer program products can be stored on computer-readable storage media. The instruction code programs a computer or other programmable device, such as a controller, to perform the desired function. Furthermore, computer program products can be provided on a network, such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet. Computer program products can be implemented not only by means of software but also by means of hardware, such as in the form of dedicated electronic circuits or in a hybrid architecture.

[0061] The technical features mentioned above, those to be mentioned below, and those shown individually in the accompanying drawings can be combined arbitrarily, provided that the combined technical features are not contradictory. All feasible combinations of features are the technical content explicitly described herein. Any one of the multiple sub-features contained in the same statement can be applied independently, without necessarily being applied together with other sub-features. Attached Figure Description

[0062] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrates exemplary embodiments of various aspects of the present invention to further explain its characteristics, features, advantages, and implementation methods. It is self-evident that the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments.

[0063] Figure 1 Showing a front view of a steering device for a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 2 and Figure 3 show Figure 1Perspective views of the steering mechanism in different states.

[0065] Figure 4 and Figure 5 show Figure 1 Top view of the steering mechanism in different states.

[0066] Figure 6 and Figure 7 show Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of the steering mechanism.

[0067] Figures 8A to 8F show Figure 1 An exemplary movement of the steering device in a motor vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Several exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that elements not essential for understanding the invention may be omitted from the drawings for ease of illustration and understanding. In the drawings, the same reference numerals may denote the same parts or parts that function identically. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific parts, devices, and methods, are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that not all of these specific details are necessarily required. The exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limiting.

[0069] Figure 1 Showing a front view of a steering device 100 for a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 and Figure 3 show Figure 1 Perspective views of the steering device 100 in different states, and Figure 4 and Figure 5 show Figure 1 Top view of the steering device 100 in different states.

[0070] The steering system 100 includes a steering wheel 10, which is coupled to a steering column 8. The steering column 8 is invisible and... Figure 1 The diagram is schematically depicted using dashed lines. The steering column 8 defines a rotation axis 9 around which the steering wheel 10 can rotate. The longitudinal direction X, lateral direction Y, and height direction Z of the steering device 100 can be defined with reference to the rotation axis 9. They are perpendicular to each other. The height direction Z extends along the rotation axis 9, the lateral direction Y is typically consistent with the lateral direction of the vehicle, and the longitudinal direction X may have a certain angle with the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, because the steering column 8, or rotation axis 9, is not usually vertically extended in the vehicle.

[0071] The steering wheel 10 includes a steering wheel body 1 and a pair of wings 3, which are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body 1 in the lateral direction Y about a rotation axis 9. An airbag 2 is integrated in the center of the steering wheel body 1. The pair of wings 3 are pivotally connected to the steering wheel body 1 at their first or lower ends via a pivot 5, and each has a handle 4 at its second or upper end opposite to the first end.

[0072] The pair of wings 3 can have functional and non-functional positions. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 The functional positions of the pair of wings 3 are shown in the diagram, and... Figure 3 and Figure 5 The non-functional position of the pair of wings 3 is shown in the diagram. The steering device 100 may also include an electric drive device 20 for driving the pair of wings 3 to pivot about a corresponding pivot 5 (see diagram). Figure 6 and Figure 7 This allows the pair of wings 3 to switch between functional and non-functional positions. For example, they can pivot downwards around the pivot 5 from the functional position away from the steering wheel body 1 until they reach the non-functional position, and then pivot upwards around the pivot 5 from the non-functional position back to the functional position. It goes without saying that the pair of wings 3 can also be pivoted to any intermediate position between the functional position (i.e., the upper first terminal position) and the non-functional position (i.e., the lower second terminal position).

[0073] In its functional position, the pair of wings 3 rest against the steering wheel body 1, and the handle 4 is positioned above the corresponding pivot 5 in the vertical direction Z and outside the corresponding pivot 5 in the radial direction. The handle 4 can be gripped to operate the steering wheel 10.

[0074] The pivots 5 of the pair of wings 3 can be arranged symmetrically about the axis of rotation 9 defined by the steering column 8. In the initial position of the steering device 100 corresponding to straight-ahead travel of the vehicle, the pivots 5 of the pair of wings 3 can extend substantially in the longitudinal direction X of the steering device 100. In the non-functional position, the handle 4 can be positioned below the corresponding pivot 5 and closer to the pivot 5 radially. Figure 3 As can be seen, in the non-functional position, the handle 4 can have substantially the same radial position as the corresponding pivot 5. (As indicated by...) Figure 4 As can be seen, regarding the rotation axis 9 defined by the steering column, in the functional position, the handle 4 is radially outside the airbag 2. Additionally, as by Figure 5 As can be seen, the handle 4 can overlap with the airbag 2.

[0075] The steering wheel body 1 may have a circumference surrounding the rotation axis 9. This circumference may be elongated; in other words, the dimension of the steering wheel body 1 in the lateral direction Y may be larger than its dimension in the longitudinal direction X, preferably approximately 1.5 times the dimension in the longitudinal direction X. The steering wheel body 1 may be tapered downwards. In the initial position of the steering device 100 corresponding to the straight-moving motion of the vehicle, the steering wheel body 1 is tapered outwards from the longitudinal midplane XZ in the lateral direction Y. The steering wheel body 1 may be generally boat-shaped.

[0076] The steering system 100 may also include a steering column guard 6 disposed below the steering wheel body 1. The steering column guard 6 may be constructed in a flat cylindrical shape. Unlike the steering wheel body 1, the steering column guard 6 cannot rotate about the rotation axis 9. The steering column guard 6 may have a pair of recesses 7, in which the handles 4 of the pair of wings 3 are received in the corresponding recesses 7 in the non-functional position of the steering system 100 corresponding to the initial position of the vehicle traveling straight, such as... Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown.

[0077] The steering column 8 can be telescopic, so the steering wheel body 1 and steering column cover 6 coupled to the steering column 8 can rise and fall with the telescopic movement of the steering column 8. Telescopic steering columns are known in principle from the prior art. For example, see the applicant's patent document WO2022083962A1, which is incorporated herein by reference and forms part of the disclosure of this specification.

[0078] Next, refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The pair of wings 3, the electric drive system 20 for the pair of wings 3, and the transmission device are described in more detail below. Each pair of wings 3 has a planar section 11. The planar section 11 may be generally plate-shaped. In a functional position, the planar section 11 may be opposed to a generally flat surface area of ​​the steering wheel body 1 with a small gap. The planar section 11 may transition to the handle 4 via a transition section 12. With respect to the axis of rotation 9, the handle 4 extends substantially in the circumferential direction of the steering device 100. The handle 4 may extend beyond the planar section 11 on both sides in this circumferential direction. The inner surface of the transition section 12 facing the steering wheel body 1 may be complementary to the outer surface of the steering wheel body 1 facing the wings 3, such that in the functional position, the transition section 12 is planarly abutting the steering wheel body 1. The transition section 12 may form a curved recess.

[0079] As a supplement, the pair of wings 3 and the steering wheel body 1 may have a load-bearing structure that functions together in the circumferential direction in a functional position, the load-bearing structure being able to transfer loads between the pair of wings 3 and the steering wheel body 1 in the circumferential direction. For example, the pair of wings 3 may have a recess 25 in the planar section 11, and the steering wheel body 1 may have a protrusion 26 that mates with the recess 25 (see...). Figure 3 Therefore, in its functional position, when the steering wheel 10 is operated, torque can be reliably transmitted between the pair of wings 3 and the steering wheel body 1 through the cooperating recess 25 and protrusion 26. An inverted arrangement of the recess 25 and protrusion 26 is also possible, i.e., the protrusion 26 is arranged on the wing 3, and the recess 25 is arranged on the steering wheel body 1. Instead of the recess 25 and protrusion 26, interlocking teeth can also be used as the circumferential load-bearing structure, wherein the pair of wings 3 may have first teeth, and the steering wheel body 1 may have second teeth that mesh with the first teeth.

[0080] In an advantageous manner, the pair of wings 3 can move synchronously. The electric drive unit 20 may include a common motor mounted to the steering wheel body 1, the motor being coupled to a first wing of the pair of wings 3 via a first transmission device, and the motor being coupled to the other second wing of the pair of wings 3 via a second transmission device. In particular, the first and second transmission devices may have the same gear ratio. Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the first transmission device includes an output worm gear 13 of the motor and a worm wheel 14 of the first wing shaft 5 that meshes with the output worm gear 13; and the second transmission device includes an output worm gear 13 of the motor, a first composite transmission component 15, a transmission shaft 17, a second composite transmission component 19, and an input gear 23 of the second wing. The first composite transmission component 15 includes a first worm wheel 24 and a first worm. The first worm wheel 24 meshes with the output worm gear 13 of the motor, and the first worm adjacent to the first worm wheel 24 meshes with a worm wheel 16 at the first end of the transmission shaft 17. The second composite transmission component 19 includes a second worm wheel 21 and an output gear 22. A worm 18 at the second end of the transmission shaft 17 meshes with the second worm wheel 21, and the output gear 22 of the second composite transmission component 19 meshes with the input gear 23 of the second wing. Instead of a gear transmission device, a flexible shaft transmission or a wire rope transmission can also be used. Alternatively, each wing 3 can be equipped with its own motor, and in particular, these two motors can be controlled synchronously. Alternatively, instead of an electric drive, the pair of wings could also be equipped with a manual control device.

[0081] The steering device 100 may include a controller 30, which may be a separate controller located within the steering device 100, such as in the steering wheel body 1, or alternatively integrated into the vehicle controller or the vehicle's domain controller. The controller 30 can activate and deactivate the electric drive unit 20, enabling the pair of wings 3 to move according to a preset motion pattern.

[0082] In one exemplary application, the controller 30 can be configured to implement a welcome mode for the steering device 100, wherein the pair of wings 3 are positioned away from the steering wheel body 1 by an electric drive device 20 activated by the controller 30, particularly as... Figure 3 and Figure 5 The predetermined non-functional positions shown are as follows: Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 The indicated functional positions undergo at least one transition, for example, exactly one or more transitions, and ultimately remain in a functional position.

[0083] In the first scheme of the welcome mode, the pair of wings 3 are switched from a predetermined non-functional position to a functional position in one step by controlling the electric drive device 20 through the controller 30.

[0084] In the second scheme of the welcome mode, the pair of wings 3 first pivot from the functional position to the non-functional position through the control of the electric drive device 20 by the controller 30, and then pivot from the non-functional position to and finally remain in the functional position.

[0085] In the third scheme of the welcome mode, the pair of wings 3, starting from the non-functional position, repeatedly switch back and forth between the non-functional position and an intermediate position (in which the planar segment 11 of the pair of wings 3 extends approximately horizontally) a predetermined number of times (e.g., twice), and finally pivot to and remain in the functional position.

[0086] Particularly advantageous is that, in the welcome mode, the movement of the pair of wings 3 can be combined with the extension and retraction of the steering column 8. For example, when the welcome mode of the steering device 100 is implemented, the steering wheel body 1 coupled to the steering column 8 is raised in response to the extension of the steering column 8, and the movement of the pair of wings 3 relative to the steering wheel body 1 is initiated by activating the electric drive device 20 during or after the raising of the steering wheel body 1.

[0087] The welcome mode can be activated, for example, when an opening signal of a vehicle door is received and a state change of the driver's seat from an idle state to an occupied state is received, and the welcome mode is activated based on the opening signal and the state change.

[0088] Welcome mode can also be activated when the vehicle switches from autonomous driving mode to manual driving mode. This switch can be automatically evaluated and determined by the vehicle's infotainment system, or it can be determined by the user based on their own needs, such as when the driver wishes to take over driving during autonomous driving. This switch can be achieved, for example, through control elements mounted on the steering wheel, such as mechanical buttons or virtual buttons on a touchscreen. Voice input and / or gesture input can also be used as a supplement or replacement for these control elements.

[0089] In another exemplary application, the controller 30 may be configured to implement a farewell mode of the steering device 100, wherein the pair of wings 3 are switched at least once, for example exactly once or more, between a position away from the steering wheel body 1, particularly a predetermined non-functional position and a functional position, by an electric drive device 20 activated by the controller 30, and finally to a position away from the steering wheel body 1, particularly the predetermined non-functional position.

[0090] In the first scheme of the farewell mode, the pair of wings 3 pivot from the functional position to and ultimately remain in the predetermined non-functional position through the control of the electric drive unit 20 by the controller 30.

[0091] In the second scheme of the farewell mode, the pair of wings 3 first pivot from the functional position to the non-functional position through the control of the electric drive device 20 by the controller 30, then pivot from the non-functional position to the functional position, and finally pivot from the functional position to and remain in the non-functional position.

[0092] In the third scheme of the farewell mode, the pair of wings 3, starting from the functional position, repeatedly switch back and forth between the functional position and an intermediate position (in which the planar segments 11 of the pair of wings 3 extend approximately horizontally) a predetermined number of times (e.g., twice), and finally pivot to and remain in the non-functional position.

[0093] Advantageously, when the steering device 100 is in the farewell mode, the steering device 100 is returned to or held in the initial position corresponding to the straight-line movement of the vehicle, and then the movement of the pair of wings 3 relative to the steering wheel body 1 is initiated by activating the electric drive device 20.

[0094] Advantageously, in the farewell mode, the movement of the pair of wings 3 can be combined with the extension and retraction of the steering column 8. For example, during or after the movement of the pair of wings 3 relative to the steering wheel body 1, the steering wheel body 1 coupled to the steering column lowers in response to the retraction of the steering column 8.

[0095] The farewell mode can be activated, for example, when an opening signal of the vehicle door is received and a state change of the driver's seat from occupied to vacant, and the farewell mode is activated based on the opening signal and the state change.

[0096] The farewell mode can also be activated when the vehicle switches from manual driving mode to autonomous driving mode. In this case, the steering wheel may not be necessary. For example, the switch from manual to autonomous driving mode can be achieved by a control element mounted on the steering wheel body, which may be a mechanical button or a virtual button on a touchscreen. As a supplement or replacement to the control element, voice input and / or gesture input can also be used; for this purpose, the vehicle may have a voice dialogue system and / or a system for detecting specific user gestures.

[0097] Figures 8A to 8F show Figure 1 The exemplary movement process of the steering device 100 in a motor vehicle 200. Figure 8A In the vehicle 200, the steering wheel 10 of the steering device 100 has been raised to a predetermined height, and the pair of wings 3 are in a functional position, resting against the steering wheel body 1. Figure 8B In the middle, driven by the electric drive device 20 controlled by the controller 30, the pair of wings 3 pivot to a first intermediate position away from the steering wheel body 1. Figure 8C In the middle, through the continued drive of the electric drive device 20, the pair of wings 3 pivot to a second intermediate position further away from the steering wheel body 1. Figure 8D In the process, through continued actuation of the electric drive device 20, the pair of wings 3 pivot to their final non-functional position. Figure 8E Now, the retractable steering column 8 is shortened, causing the steering wheel 10 and steering column cover 6 to lower together to an intermediate height position. Figure 8F In this configuration, the retractable steering column 8 is further shortened, causing the steering wheel 10 and steering column cover 6 to descend together to their final height positions. It goes without saying that... Figures 8A to 8F The motion process shown is reversible.

[0098] In one embodiment not shown, the steering wheel may also consist of only a single wing.

[0099] In an embodiment not shown, the steering wheel includes two pairs of winglets. Each pair of winglets is positioned opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body about an axis of rotation defined by the steering column, with each winglet distributed circumferentially about the axis of rotation, for example, evenly spaced at 90° intervals. In a first advantageous further embodiment, the four winglet handles may each have an extension dimension of approximately 90° about the axis of rotation in a functional position, thus the four winglet handles together forming a substantially completely annular rim in the functional position. In a second advantageous further embodiment, the four winglet handles may each have an extension dimension of approximately 60° about the axis of rotation in a functional position, these handles forming four rim segments separated from each other in the circumferential direction. In an advantageous further embodiment, each pair of winglets can be driven by a common motor.

[0100] In some embodiments, the steering wheel includes three winglets, each winglet distributed circumferentially about the axis of rotation, for example, evenly distributed at angular intervals of 120°. In a first advantageous further embodiment, the three winglet handles may each have an extension dimension of approximately 120° about the axis of rotation in a functional position, thus the three winglet handles together in a functional position form a substantially completely annular rim. In a second advantageous further embodiment, the three winglet handles may each have an extension dimension of approximately 60° about the axis of rotation in a functional position, these handles forming three rim segments separated from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0101] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. The singular forms “a” and “the one” as used herein should include the plural forms unless the context explicitly states otherwise. It is understood that the terms “comprising” and “including,” and other similar terms, when used in the application documents, specifically describe the presence of the stated operation, element, and / or component, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The term “and / or” as used herein includes all arbitrary combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. In the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals always denote similar elements.

[0102] The thickness of the elements in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. It is also understood that if an element is described as being on, coupled to, or connected to another element, then the element may be directly formed on, coupled to, or connected to the other element, or there may be one or more intermediate elements between them. Conversely, if the expressions "directly on," "directly coupled to," and "directly connected to" are used herein, it indicates that there is no intermediate element. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted similarly, such as "between" and "directly between," "attached" and "directly attached," "adjacent" and "directly adjacent," etc.

[0103] Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “over,” “under,” etc., are used to describe the relationship of one element, layer, or region relative to another element, layer, or region, as shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that these terms should also encompass other orientations of the device in addition to those described in the accompanying drawings.

[0104] It is understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe different elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, a first element may be referred to as a second element without departing from the teachings of the inventive concept.

[0105] It can also be considered that all the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can be arbitrarily combined with each other. Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are merely for understanding the present invention and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, modifications can be made based on the above embodiments, and these modifications do not depart from the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A steering device for a motor vehicle, the steering device (100) comprising a steering wheel (10) coupled to a steering column (8), characterized in that, The steering wheel includes a steering wheel body (1) and at least one wing (3), the wing being pivotally connected to the steering wheel body at a first end via a pivot (5) and having a handle (4) at a second end opposite to the first end; the wing (3) is pivotable up and down about the corresponding pivot (5) between a functional position and a rest position, in the functional position the wing rests on the steering wheel body (1) and the handle (4) is above the corresponding pivot (5) and can be gripped to operate the steering wheel, the wing (3) separating from the steering wheel body when the wing pivots from the functional position to the rest position; Preferably, the steering device (100) includes an electric drive (20) for driving the wing (3) to pivot about a corresponding pivot (5).

2. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steering wheel includes a pair of wings (3), preferably arranged opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body about a rotation axis (9) defined by the steering column.

3. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-moving motion of the vehicle, the pair of wings (3) are arranged opposite each other on both sides of the steering wheel body (1) in the lateral direction (Y) of the steering device; and / or Preferably, the pivots (5) of the pair of wings (3) are arranged symmetrically about the axis of rotation (9) defined by the steering column (8), and / or, at the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-going of the vehicle, the pivots (5) of the wings (3) extend substantially in the longitudinal direction (X) of the steering device.

4. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, In the resting position, the handle (4) is located below the corresponding pivot (5). Preferably, with respect to the rotation axis (9) defined by the steering column, in the functional position, the handle (4) is radially outside the corresponding pivot (5), and in the rest position, the handle (4) is radially closer to the pivot (5) than in the functional position. More preferably, in the rest position, the handle (4) and the pivot (5) have substantially the same radial position. Preferably, the steering device includes an airbag (2) integrated into the steering wheel body (1), wherein, in the projection along the rotation axis defined by the steering column, the handle is outside the airbag in the functional position and overlaps with the airbag in the rest position.

5. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The wing (3) has a planar section (11) that transitions to the handle (4) via a transition section (12). The handle extends substantially in the circumferential direction of the steering device with respect to the axis of rotation (9) defined by the steering column. Preferably, the handle (4) extends beyond the planar section at least on one side, especially on both sides, in this circumferential direction. Preferably, the inner surface of the transition section (12) facing the steering wheel body and the outer surface of the steering wheel body (1) facing the wing are complementary, so that the transition section and the steering wheel body are in planar contact in the functional position.

6. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The steering wheel body (1) is formed by tapering downwards, and / or the size of the steering wheel body (1) in the lateral direction (Y) is greater than the size in the longitudinal direction (X), preferably the size of the steering wheel body in the lateral direction (Y) is 1.35 to 2.0 times the size in the longitudinal direction (X).

7. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The steering device includes a steering column cover (6) disposed below the steering wheel body (1), preferably having at least one, in particular a pair of recesses (7), in the initial position of the steering device corresponding to the straight-going of the vehicle, and in the rest position, the handle (4) of the wing (3) is received in the corresponding recess (7).

8. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The steering column (8) is telescopic, and the steering wheel body (1) coupled to the steering column and the steering column cover (6) preferably present can rise and fall in response to the telescopic movement of the steering column.

9. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The steering mechanism includes a controller (30) configured to implement: - A welcome mode for the steering mechanism, wherein the wing (3) can be switched at least once, for example exactly once or multiple times, between a position away from the steering wheel body, particularly a rest position and a functional position, via an electric drive (20) activated by a controller, and ultimately be in the functional position, preferably switching from the rest position to the functional position in one step; and / or - The farewell mode of the steering device, wherein the wing (3) can be switched at least once, for example exactly once or multiple times, between the position away from the steering wheel body, especially the rest position and the functional position by an electric drive device (20) activated by the controller, and finally be in the position away from the steering wheel body, especially the rest position, preferably switching from the functional position to the rest position in one go.

10. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that, The controller (30) is configured to, - When the steering mechanism is in welcome mode, the steering wheel body (1) coupled to the steering column rises in response to the extension of the steering column (8), and the movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) is initiated by activating the electric drive device (20) during or after the rise of the steering wheel body; and / or When the steering device is in the farewell mode, the steering device (100) is returned to or held in the initial position corresponding to the straight-line movement of the vehicle. The movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) is initiated by activating the electric drive device (20). During the movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) or after the movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) ends, the steering wheel body (1) coupled to the steering column is lowered in response to the shortening of the steering column (8).

11. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that, The electric drive unit (20) includes a common motor mounted to the steering wheel body, the motor being coupled to a first wing of the pair of wings (3) via a first transmission device, and the motor being coupled to a second wing of the pair of wings (3) via a second transmission device, preferably having the same transmission ratio.

12. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first transmission device includes an output worm gear (13) of the motor and a worm wheel (14) of the shaft of the first wing that meshes with the output worm gear; and / or The second transmission device includes an output worm gear (13) of a motor, a first composite transmission component (15), a transmission shaft (17), a second composite transmission component (19), and an input gear (23) of the second wing. The first composite transmission component (15) includes a first worm wheel (24) and a first worm. The first worm wheel (24) meshes with the output worm gear (13) of the motor, and the first worm meshes with a worm wheel (16) at the first end of the transmission shaft. The second composite transmission component (19) includes a second worm wheel (21) and an output gear (22). The worm gear (18) at the second end of the transmission shaft meshes with the second worm wheel (21), and the output gear (22) of the second composite transmission component (19) meshes with the input gear (23) of the second wing.

13. The steering device for a motor vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The wing (3) and the steering wheel body (1) have a load-bearing structure that works together in the circumferential direction in a functional position, and the load-bearing structure can transmit loads between the wing and the steering wheel body in the circumferential direction. Preferably, one of the wing and the steering wheel body has a recess (25), and the other of the wing and the steering wheel body has a protrusion (26) that engages with the recess in a functional position.

14. A motor vehicle comprising a steering device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A method for operating a steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 to achieve a welcome mode for a user, wherein, Activate the electric drive device (20) so that the wing (3) changes at least once between the position away from the steering wheel body (1), especially the rest position and the functional position, and finally is in the functional position, preferably changing from the rest position to the functional position in one go; Preferably, the method further includes: causing the retractable steering column (8) to extend, so that the steering wheel body (1) coupled to the steering column rises in response to the extension of the steering column, and initiating the movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) during or after the rise of the steering wheel body. Preferably, the method involves: acquiring an opening signal of the vehicle door, acquiring a state change of the driver's seat from an idle state to an occupied state, and initiating the method based on the opening signal and the state change; or acquiring a start signal for initiating the method and then initiating the method.

16. A method for operating a steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 13 to achieve a farewell mode for a user, wherein, Activate the electric drive device (20) so that the wing (3) changes at least once between the position away from the steering wheel body (1), especially between the rest position and the functional position, and finally is in the rest position, preferably changing from the functional position to the rest position in one go; Preferably, the method further includes: returning the steering device to or maintaining it in the initial position corresponding to the straight-moving of the vehicle, and then initiating the movement of the wing relative to the steering wheel body; Preferably, during the movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) or after the movement of the wing (3) relative to the steering wheel body (1) ends, the retractable steering column is shortened, so that the steering wheel body coupled to the steering column descends in response to the shortening of the steering column; Preferably, the method involves: acquiring an opening signal of the vehicle door, acquiring a state change of the driver's seat from an occupied state to an idle state, and initiating the method based on the opening signal and the state change; or acquiring a start signal for initiating the method and then initiating the method.

17. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program comprising instructions that, when implemented, cause the method according to claim 15 or 16 to be performed.

18. A computer program product comprising a computer program containing instructions that, when implemented, cause the method according to claim 15 or 16 to be performed.

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