Functional module, steering structure and scooter
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202611063278.2
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-07-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-20
Smart Images

Figure FT_1 
Figure FT_2 
Figure FT_3
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of cleaning equipment technology, and in particular to functional modules, steering structures and scooters. Background Technology
[0002] Electric scooters offer advantages such as ease of operation, flexibility, lightweight design, low energy consumption, environmental friendliness, fast charging, long range, and safe riding. Currently, electric scooters have become a popular mode of transportation for short-distance travel in people's daily lives.
[0003] With the deep integration of technologies such as the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, modern electric scooters have evolved from simple transportation tools into intelligent terminal devices with network connectivity. Electric scooters using this technology are equipped with functional modules, including light-emitting modules, signal modules, and sound-emitting modules. The light-emitting module is suitable for emitting light, which can provide light signals to the steering mechanism or be used as ambient lighting. The signal module utilizes its internal hardware structure to achieve network connectivity, enabling intelligent control of the scooter.
[0004] However, the unreasonable setting of the light-emitting module and signal module in the related technology results in a bulky structure of the functional module, which is not conducive to the thinning of the functional module, and the light-emitting module is prone to interfering with the signal transmission and reception of the signal module. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides a functional module, a steering structure, and a scooter to solve the problems of bulky functional module structure and interference with signal transmission and reception.
[0006] The first aspect of this application provides a functional module, including a functional box, a signal module, and a light-emitting module. The signal module is connected to the column of the functional box and / or the steering structure, and the light-emitting module is connected to the column of the functional box and / or the steering structure. The light-emitting module includes a bracket and a light-emitting component, which is connected to the bracket. The bracket includes a mounting area. The signal module transmits and receives signals along the thickness direction of the functional module. Along the thickness direction of the functional module, the orthographic projection of the structure of the signal module for transmitting and receiving signals toward the bracket is located within the mounting area, and the orthographic projection of the light-emitting component toward the bracket is located outside the mounting area.
[0007] The functional module provided in this application embodiment has a signal module and a light-emitting module spaced apart in the thickness direction. Integrating the signal module and light-emitting module onto a functional box enhances the functionality of the scooter, enabling it to have at least signal control and light-emitting capabilities. The arrangement of the signal module and light-emitting module in the thickness direction of the functional module allows them to share part of the functional box's mounting contour and housing space, avoiding structural redundancy caused by separate housings for lighting and communication functions. This also allows the functional module to maintain a slim and lightweight design while still providing lighting display and signal transmission capabilities. In addition, by placing the orthographic projection of the signal module's structure for transmitting and receiving signals onto the bracket within the mounting area, and placing the orthographic projection of the light-emitting component onto the bracket outside the mounting area, the mounting area forms the signal module's signal transmission and reception area. This allows the signal from the signal module to penetrate the functional box through this area. Furthermore, the light-emitting component and the signal module's signal transmission and reception structure do not overlap in the thickness direction of the functional module, meaning they are staggered in this direction. The light-emitting component will not directly press against the core communication area of the signal module, and the signal radiation surface of the signal module will not be completely blocked by the main structure of the light-emitting component. Therefore, the problems of space compression, assembly interference, and signal interference caused by structural stacking can be reduced.
[0008] In one possible implementation, the light-emitting module further includes a shield, which is a non-metallic component located within the mounting area. The light-emitting component is disposed on the periphery of the shield, and along the thickness direction of the functional module, the light-emitting position of the light-emitting component and the signal module are respectively located on opposite sides of the shield.
[0009] In one possible implementation, the light-emitting module further includes a light guide plate connected to the bracket. The light guide plate is positioned on the side of the shield facing away from the signal module, and the light-emitting component can emit light toward the light guide plate.
[0010] In one possible implementation, the light-emitting component includes a circuit board and at least one light-emitting element disposed on the circuit board, the circuit board being connected to a light guide plate, and the light-emitting element being located at a side end of the light guide plate along the width direction of the functional module.
[0011] In one possible implementation, the bracket includes a enclosure and a support, both of which are annular structures. The outer ring wall of the support is connected to the inner ring wall of the enclosure, and the enclosure forms an accommodating space. The light-emitting module is located in the accommodating space, and the end of the light guide plate facing away from the shielding plate abuts against and is connected to the support. The circuit board is connected to the end face of the light guide plate facing away from the support.
[0012] In one possible implementation, the edge of the circuit board extends to the inner wall of the enclosure, the inner wall of the enclosure is provided with a positioning member, and the circuit board is provided with a positioning groove corresponding to the position of the positioning member. The positioning member is adapted to be inserted into the positioning groove so as to fix the position of the circuit board relative to the bracket.
[0013] In one possible implementation, the end face of the backlight guide plate of the shield is provided with a protruding ring facing the signal module. The protruding ring is a ring structure, and an annular space is formed between the protruding ring and the shield. The circuit board is located in the annular space, and the annular space is suitable for filling with glue to seal the circuit board in the annular space.
[0014] In one possible implementation, the inner ring wall of the support is provided with a chamfer, such that the inner ring wall of the support is configured such that the spatial dimension enclosed by the inner ring wall of the support gradually increases along the direction from the end of the support near the light guide plate to the end of the support away from the light guide plate.
[0015] In one possible implementation, the functional box includes a first frame and a second frame, with an internal cavity surrounding the first frame and the second frame, where the signal module and the light-emitting module are both located.
[0016] In one possible implementation, the first frame has a light-emitting position facing the light-emitting module, and the light-emitting position has multiple light-emitting holes that penetrate the first frame.
[0017] In one possible implementation, the functional module further includes a diffuser, which includes a diffuser body and a plurality of diffuser portions protruding from the diffuser body. The diffuser body is located between the first frame and the light-emitting module, and the diffuser portions are inserted into the light-emitting holes.
[0018] In one possible implementation, the support is provided with an abutment portion that abuts against the end face of the diffuser body facing the light-emitting module.
[0019] In one possible implementation, the functional module further includes a visual module and a sound module, which are mounted in the functional box and arranged along the length of the functional module.
[0020] In one possible implementation, the first frame further includes a first mounting position, which is provided with a enclosure to form an insertion space, in which the vision module is inserted and connected to the enclosure.
[0021] In one possible implementation, the functional box further includes a fixing plate, the second frame is provided with a second mounting post, the fixing plate is connected to the second mounting post, and the sound-generating module is connected to the fixing plate.
[0022] In one possible implementation, along the thickness direction of the functional module, the fixing plate is located between the light-emitting module and the second frame, and the orthographic projection of the fixing plate is located on the light-emitting module.
[0023] In one possible implementation, a first fixing post is provided on the first frame, and a second fixing post is provided on the second frame at the position corresponding to the first fixing post, and the first fixing post and the second fixing post are connected by screws.
[0024] In one possible implementation, the signal module includes a module body and a mounting base, a third fixing post is provided on the function box, the mounting base is adapted to connect to the third fixing post, and presses the module body against the function box.
[0025] A second aspect of this application provides a steering structure including a handle, a column, and the aforementioned functional module. The handle is connected to the column, and the functional module includes a first fixing bracket connected to a functional box. The first fixing bracket is adapted to be connected to the column.
[0026] A third aspect of this application provides a scooter, including a walking structure and a steering structure as described above, the steering structure being rotatably connected to the walking structure. Attached Figure Description
[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.
[0028] Figure 1 An exploded view of a scooter provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0029] Figure 2 An exploded view of the functional module provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0030] Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of the functional module provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0031] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first frame provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0032] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the second frame provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0033] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a functional module provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0034] Figure 7 An exploded view of a light-emitting module provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0035] Figure 8 Another cross-sectional view of the functional module provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0036] Figure 9Another cross-sectional view of the functional module provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown;
[0037] Figure 10 This illustration shows another partial structural diagram of a functional module provided according to an embodiment of this application;
[0038] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the signal module and the second mounting structure provided according to an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0039] Figure label:
[0040] 100. Functional module; 10. Functional box; 11. First frame; 111. Light emission position; 1111. Light emission hole; 1112. First mounting post; 112. First mounting position; 1121. Enclosure; 113. Second mounting position; 114. First fixing post; 12. Second frame; 121. Second mounting post; 122. Second fixing post; 123. Third fixing post; 13. Fixing plate; 14. First fixing frame; 141. First fixing part; 142. First binding part; 20. Signal module; 21. Module body; 22. Mounting base; 30. Light emission module; 31. Bracket; 311 312. Enclosure; 312. Support; 3121. Bevel; 313. Positioning component; 314. Mounting part; 315. Abutment part; 316. Mounting area; 32. Light-emitting component; 321. Circuit board; 3211. Positioning groove; 322. Light-emitting component; 33. Light guide plate; 34. Shielding plate; 341. Protruding ring; 40. Visual module; 50. Sound-emitting module; 60. Diffuser; 61. Diffuser body; 62. Diffuser part; 70. Second fixing frame; 71. Second fixing part; 72. Second binding part; 200. Handle; 210. Grip part; 300. Column; 400. Walking structure. Detailed Implementation
[0041] Currently, electric scooters on the market mainly consist of four systems: 1. The riding system, which is responsible for the scooter's movement and stopping. This system includes the frame, wheels, brakes, and suspension. 2. The steering system, which controls the scooter's direction. This system includes the column, handlebars, and fork. The fork connects to the front wheel, and the column connects the fork to the handlebars, which the user holds. During riding, the user controls the scooter's direction by gripping the handlebars. 3. The drive and control system, which includes the motor, controller, and throttle. These three components work together to control the scooter's speed. 4. The electrical and intelligent system, which includes the battery pack, dashboard, lighting, and IoT module. This system displays the speed, controls the lighting, and allows control via smartphones and other smart devices. Functions include unlocking, remote locking, real-time location tracking, vehicle diagnostics, and firmware upgrades (common in shared or high-end personal models).
[0042] The lighting and IoT modules in related technologies are typically housed within a single functional module, which is detachably connected to the steering system. These modules are often stacked, most commonly in the forward direction of the scooter. This arrangement not only results in a bulky and space-consuming functional module, but also, when the light-emitting components have metal structures facing the IoT module, the metal parts can interfere with the IoT's signal transmission and reception capabilities, leading to a decrease in IoT performance.
[0043] Based on the above problems, this application provides a functional module that is an improvement over traditional functional modules. The functional module of this application sets the light-emitting component and the signal module in a staggered manner. This makes reasonable use of the internal space of the functional module, which helps to reduce the overall size of the functional module and avoids the light-emitting component from affecting the signal transmission and reception of the signal module.
[0044] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0045] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, this application embodiment provides a functional module 100, a steering structure using the functional module 100, and a scooter using the steering structure. The scooter includes a walking structure and a steering structure, with the steering structure rotatably connected to the walking structure. The walking structure 400 includes a support frame for the user to stand on, walking wheels connected to the support frame for walking, and a drive component for controlling the rotation of the walking wheels. The user can stand on the support frame and drive the walking wheels to rotate by controlling the drive component, thereby realizing the forward or backward movement of the scooter. The steering structure includes a handlebar 200 and a column 300. The handlebar 200 is connected to the column 300. After the handlebar 200 and the column 300 are connected, they form the basic force-bearing structure for steering operation. The handlebar 200 is provided with a grip portion 210 suitable for the user's hand to hold. The grip portion 210 is rotatably configured, and the rotation of the grip portion 210 and the drive component form a control system. That is, the user can control the output power of the drive component by twisting the grip portion 210 to control the speed of the scooter. For example, a Hall sensor is fixed inside the handlebar 200, and a small permanent magnet is installed inside the grip 210. When the grip 210 is turned, the magnet rotates, changing the distance / angle between it and the Hall element. The Hall element outputs a linearly changing voltage on the signal line according to the strength of the magnetic field. When the grip 210 is not turned: the signal line controller determines zero throttle, and the motor used to drive the scooter does not turn. When the grip 210 is slowly turned: the voltage gradually increases until it is turned all the way up, at which point the signal line transmits a full-speed voltage signal. The controller reads the voltage on the signal line in real time. The higher the voltage, the greater the current and power output to the motor, and the faster the scooter speed. For more detailed principles, please refer to existing technology, which will not be elaborated on here.
[0046] The functional module 100 also includes a first fixing frame 14, which includes a first fixing part 141 and a first binding part 142 connected to the first fixing part 141. The first fixing part 141 is adapted to be connected to the fixing plate 13. The first binding part 142 is a ring structure. The column 300 is adapted to be inserted into the first binding part 142 to realize the connection between the first fixing frame 14 and the column 300.
[0047] The functional module 100 of this application can be connected to the column 300 and can provide some necessary or special functions for the scooter. Specifically, the functional module 100 includes a functional box 10, a signal module 20, and a light-emitting module 30. The functional box 10 serves as the load-bearing and limiting structure of the functional module 100, undertaking the functions of constraining the installation boundaries of internal components, relative positioning, and external protection. To ensure the strength of the functional box 10, the functional box 10 can be constructed using an integrally molded plastic frame, a metal frame, or a metal and plastic composite functional box 10. For example, the functional box 10 can also be an aluminum alloy profile frame, an injection-molded frame, or a magnesium-aluminum alloy skeleton. The thickness direction of the functional box 10 corresponds to the vertical stacking direction of the functional module 100 after assembly. The shape of the functional box 10 can be made into a rectangle, a rounded rectangle, an arc contour, or a partially irregular contour according to the overall design. The thickness dimension can be set to a thin shell structure suitable for accommodating stacked functional components according to the requirements of overall thinness and lightness.
[0048] For ease of explanation, this application introduces a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, where the X-axis is parallel to the length direction of the functional module 100, the Y-axis is parallel to the width direction of the functional module 100, and the Z-axis is parallel to the thickness direction of the functional module 100. It is worth noting that when the functional module 100 is connected to the column 300, the length direction of the functional module 100 is parallel to the length direction of the column, while the thickness direction of the functional module 100 is parallel to the direction of movement of the scooter.
[0049] The signal module 20 is an IoT module used for wireless or wired signal transmission and reception, control interaction, or communication forwarding. The signal module 20 can be connected to the function box 10, or it can be directly connected to the column 300. The signal module 20 can be a motherboard-type communication module, an antenna board-type module, or an integrated chip-type small communication unit. The signal module 20 can be connected to the function box 10 by screws, snap-fitting, fastening, welding, or adhesive. Similarly, it can be connected to the column 300 by screws, snap-fitting, fastening, welding, or adhesive. The communication antenna, RF circuit, or transceiver unit of the signal module 20 can be arranged facing the outside of the function box 10 or towards a lateral opening area to form a relatively independent signal working space. By setting up the signal module 20, users can connect to it via smart devices such as mobile phones, watches, or tablets to remotely control functions such as locking or unlocking the scooter.
[0050] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6As shown, the light-emitting module 30 is connected to the column 300 of the functional box 10 and / or the steering structure. The light-emitting module 30 includes a bracket 31 and a light-emitting component 32. The light-emitting component 32 is connected to the bracket 31. The bracket 31 includes a mounting area 316. The signal module 20 transmits and receives signals along the thickness direction of the functional module. The orthographic projection of the structure of the signal module 20 for transmitting and receiving signals toward the bracket 31 is located within the mounting area 316, while the orthographic projection of the light-emitting component 32 toward the bracket 31 is located outside the range of the mounting area 316.
[0051] The light-emitting module 30 is used for emitting light, guiding light, and creating a visual light output effect. It can be connected to the functional box 10 or the column 300, depending on the actual needs. The light-emitting module 30 includes at least one light-emitting component 32. The light-emitting module 30 and the signal module 20 are arranged along the thickness direction of the functional module 100 and are spaced apart along the thickness direction of the functional module 100. The light-emitting module 30 can be connected to the functional box 10 by screws, clips, fasteners, welding, or adhesive. The light-emitting module 30 is located inside the functional box 10. The light-emitting module 30 and the signal module 20 are arranged in the thickness direction, but some of their structures are not completely aligned. Instead, they are partially staggered in planar projection, so that the main light-emitting area of the light-emitting component 32 and the main communication area of the signal module 20 are spatially offset, thereby integrating lighting and communication functions within the same occupied contour.
[0052] The functional module 100 provided in this application embodiment has a signal module 20 and a light-emitting module 30 spaced apart in the thickness direction. Integrating the signal module 20 and the light-emitting module 30 onto the functional box 10 enhances the functionality of the scooter, enabling it to have at least signal control and light-emitting capabilities. The arrangement of the signal module 20 and the light-emitting module in the thickness direction of the functional module 100 allows them to share part of the mounting contour and housing space of the functional box 10, avoiding structural redundancy caused by separate housings for lighting and communication functions. This also allows the functional module 100 to maintain a slim and lightweight design while still providing lighting display and signal transmission capabilities. Furthermore, by placing the orthographic projection of the signal module 20 for transmitting and receiving signals toward the bracket 31 within the mounting area 316, and placing the orthographic projection of the light-emitting component 32 toward the bracket 31 outside the mounting area 316, the mounting area 316 forms the area for the signal module 20 to transmit and receive signals. This allows the signal of the signal module 20 to penetrate the functional box 10 through this area. Moreover, the light-emitting component 32 and the signal module 20 for transmitting and receiving signals do not overlap in the thickness direction of the functional module. In other words, they are staggered in this direction. The light-emitting component 32 will not directly press against the core communication area of the signal module 20, and the signal radiation surface of the signal module 20 will not be completely blocked by the main structure of the light-emitting component 32. Therefore, the problems of space compression, assembly interference, and signal interference caused by structural stacking can be reduced.
[0053] See Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the functional box 10 includes a first frame 11 and a second frame 12, with an internal cavity surrounding the first frame 11 and the second frame 12, and the signal module 20 and the light-emitting module 30 are both located inside the internal cavity.
[0054] The functional box 10 of this application has a split structure, specifically including a first frame 11 and a second frame 12, which are separately arranged. The first frame 11 and the second frame 12 are joined together along the thickness direction of the functional module 100. The first frame 11 and the second frame 12 are usually joined vertically or stacked front to back along the thickness direction of the functional module 100. The two can be reliably connected by means of screw locking, snap-fit limiting, ultrasonic welding, hot melt riveting or adhesive fixing.
[0055] In this embodiment, the first frame 11 and the second frame 12 are detachably connected. Specifically, the first frame 11 is provided with a first fixing post 114, and the second frame 12 is provided with a second fixing post 122 corresponding to the position of the first fixing post 114. The first fixing post 114 and the second fixing post 122 are connected by screws. The first fixing post 114 and the second fixing post 122 constitute a columnar fastening structure for connecting the first frame 11 and the second frame 12. The first fixing post 114 can be understood as a positioning bearing part provided on the first frame 11, and the second fixing post 122 can be understood as an alignment bearing part provided on the second frame 12. Their function is to provide axial guidance, locking support and assembly positioning for the screws when the two frames are mated along the thickness direction, thereby forming a stable detachable connection between the first frame 11 and the second frame 12. During assembly, the first fixing post 114 and the second fixing post 122 are aligned with each other at corresponding positions. Screws are inserted and tightened along the axial direction of the two fixing posts, so that they are pressed together under the action of thread preload. This restricts the relative movement of the components of the functional box 10 during transportation, installation, or long-term use, and improves the overall vibration resistance and assembly consistency of the functional box 10. The first fixing post 114 and the second fixing post 122 can be solid cylinders, hollow posts with central threaded holes, or reinforcing posts with embedded metal parts. Through the connection of the first fixing post 114 and the second fixing post 122, the first frame 11 and the second frame 12 can achieve a reliable axial locking effect while maintaining convenient disassembly and assembly. Positioning and fastening can be completed without additional complex clamping parts during assembly, which is suitable for scenarios where the functional module 100 is easy to maintain.
[0056] In one embodiment of this application, the first frame 11 and the second frame 12 together constitute a split-type support structure of the functional box 10. The light-emitting module 30 is connected to the first frame 11, which serves as a frame member supporting the light-emitting module 30 and providing it with an installation reference and external interface. The signal module 20 can be connected to the second frame 12, which serves as a frame member supporting the signal module 20 and providing it with an installation reference and working space.
[0057] The purpose of this split structure is to separate the lighting and signal functions, so that the two types of modules are fixed on different frames, thereby reducing the risk of thermal interference, assembly interference, and mutual obstruction between modules.
[0058] See Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the light-emitting module 30 can be installed on the first frame 11 by a snap-fit structure, a fastening structure or screws, so that the light-emitting module 30 and the first frame 11 remain relatively fixed.
[0059] In this embodiment, the first frame 11 has a light-emitting position 111 facing the light-emitting module 30. The light-emitting position 111 has multiple light-emitting holes 1111 that penetrate the first frame 11. It can be understood that by setting the light-emitting position 111 on the first frame 11, the light emitted by the light-emitting module 30 can be directly or indirectly transmitted to the light-emitting position 111, so that it can be emitted from the light-emitting holes 1111 and exit the functional box 10 to achieve the effect of lighting or ambient lighting.
[0060] See Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the light-emitting module 30 further includes a shielding plate 34, which is a non-metallic component. The shielding plate 34 is located within the mounting area 316, and the light-emitting component 32 is disposed on the periphery of the shielding plate 34. Along the thickness direction of the functional module 100, the light-emitting position of the light-emitting component 32 and the signal module 20 are respectively located on opposite sides of the shielding plate 34. Both the light-emitting component 32 and the shielding plate 34 are disposed on the bracket 31, and the light-emitting component 32 is disposed on the periphery of the shielding plate 34. The structure of the signal module 20 used for transmitting and receiving signals has its orthographic projection onto the shielding plate 34 coincident with the shielding plate 34.
[0061] The bracket 31 is used to support, position and maintain the spatial posture of the light-emitting component 32 and the shield 34. Its function is to provide an installation base for the light-emitting component 32 and the shield 34, and to form a support and limiting relationship for the light-emitting component 32 and the shield 34 inside the functional module 100, so as to prevent the light-emitting component 32 and the shield 34 from shifting, warping or loosening during assembly or use.
[0062] The light-emitting position 111 is provided with a first mounting post 1112, and the bracket 31 includes a mounting part 314, which is connected to the first mounting post 1112. The first mounting post 1112 is a positioning connection structure protruding from the light-emitting position 111, used to achieve mechanical cooperation with the mounting part 314 on the bracket 31, thereby completing the limiting, support, and fixation of the light-emitting module 30. The mounting part 314 is a pre-set connection area on the bracket 31, whose function is to engage with the first mounting post 1112 through sleeve, plug, or lock to ensure that the light-emitting module 30 can be reliably connected to the first frame 11 and to suppress shaking after assembly. The first mounting post 1112 and the mounting part 314 can be connected by snap-fit, fastening, or screws. In this application, the first mounting post 1112 and the mounting part 314 are connected together by screws.
[0063] The baffle 34 can be a flat structure, an arc structure, or a structure with microstructure texture, and its material can be insulating materials such as rubber, silicone, or plastic.
[0064] It should be noted that the light-emitting component 32 and the signal module 20 are located on opposite sides of the shielding plate 34, which ensures that the illumination and communication are located on different sides, so that communication and light emission do not interfere with each other.
[0065] By setting a shield 34, the signal module 20 is positioned directly opposite the shield 34 along the thickness direction of the functional module 100, and the light-emitting component 32 is positioned around the shield 34. This allows the signal module 20 and the light-emitting component 32 to be staggered. The shield 34 is made of insulating material, which on the one hand allows the signal of the signal module 20 to pass through, thus avoiding interference from the signal of the signal module 20 by the metal material. On the other hand, the insulating material of the shield 34 also helps to resist the interference of the magnetic field signal generated by the metal inside the light-emitting component 32, thus playing an anti-interference role.
[0066] See Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, the light-emitting module 30 further includes a light guide plate 33, which is connected to the bracket 31. The light guide plate 33 is disposed on the side of the shielding plate 34 facing away from the signal module 20, and the light-emitting component 32 can emit light towards the light guide plate 33. The light guide plate 33 and the bracket 31 can be connected by adhesive bonding. The light guide plate 33 is a light-transmitting component used to receive the light emitted by the light-emitting component 32, and to internally conduct, reflect, and homogenize the light before outputting it outward. Its function is to convert a local point light source into a large-area light-emitting area corresponding to the light-emitting position 111, thereby enabling the functional module 100 to form a more uniform visual prompting effect within a limited space. The material of the light guide plate 33 can be PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate), PC (Polycarbonate), acrylic, optical grade transparent resin, or other composite materials with high light transmittance and appropriate refractive index.
[0067] When the light guide plate 33 is set, it is positioned directly opposite the light emission position 111 along the thickness direction of the functional module 100. Along the width direction of the functional module 100, the light-emitting component 32 is positioned on the side of the light guide plate 33. The light-emitting component 32 can emit light along the width direction, aligned with the light-incident surface of the side wall of the light guide plate 33. This side-incident light method improves the coupling efficiency and reduces the occupancy of the light-emitting component 32 in the thickness direction, achieving a staggered arrangement between the light-emitting component 32 and the signal module 20. The light emitted by the light-emitting component 32 is transmitted to the light emission position 111 via the light guide plate 33 and exits from the light emission hole 1111.
[0068] In some embodiments, the shielding plate 34 is located between the light guide plate 33 and the signal module 20. The shielding plate 34 can be directly connected to the bracket 31, or the shielding plate 34 can be connected to the light guide plate 33. Specifically, the shielding plate 34 can be glued to the end face of the light guide plate 33 facing the signal module 20.
[0069] In some embodiments, the shield 34 can also be configured to reflect, refract, or redirect light, working in conjunction with the light guide plate 33 to reuse the light emitted by the light-emitting element 322, thereby improving the light extraction efficiency of the light-emitting module 30 and improving the light distribution at the light extraction position 111. Specifically, the shield 34 may include at least one of titanium dioxide, silicon dioxide, ceramic, etc., or the end face of the shield 34 facing away from the signal module 20 may be coated with a reflective layer, including at least one of titanium dioxide, silicon dioxide, ceramic, etc., so that it can effectively recover the backscattered light or lateral leakage light formed after the light-emitting component 32 enters the light guide plate 33 within a limited thickness space.
[0070] In some embodiments, the light-emitting component 32 includes a circuit board 321 and at least one light-emitting element 322 disposed on the circuit board 321. The circuit board 321 is connected to a light guide plate 33 and / or a bracket 31. The light-emitting element 322 is located at the side end of the light guide plate 33 along the width direction of the functional module 100. The light-emitting element 322 is adapted to emit light.
[0071] The light-emitting component 32 is a combination of components that perform the light-emitting function. It carries the light-emitting element 322 via a circuit board 321, and the light-emitting element 322 emits light outward after being powered on, used for status display, indicator lighting, or auxiliary display. The circuit board 321 can be any of a rigid circuit board, flexible circuit board, aluminum substrate, ceramic substrate, or composite substrate. The light-emitting element 322 can be an LED or MiniLED, and can be arranged in single, double, or multi-LED arrays. The spacing between them is typically designed to match the light emission uniformity, the size of the light-incident surface of the light guide structure, and the available installation space of the functional module 100.
[0072] The circuit board 321 can be attached to the bracket 31 by bonding or soldering, or the circuit board 321 can be attached to the side wall of the light guide plate 33 by adhesive, or the circuit board 321 can be connected to both the bracket 31 and the light guide plate 33. No special limitation is made here. In this application, the circuit board 321 is attached to the side wall of the light guide plate 33 by adhesive.
[0073] In some embodiments, a positioning member 313 is provided on the bracket 31. The positioning member 313 is a positioning structure provided on the bracket 31 for defining the assembly position of the circuit board 321. A positioning groove 3211 is provided on the circuit board 321, and the positioning member 313 is adapted to be inserted into the positioning groove 3211 to fix the position of the circuit board 321 relative to the bracket 31. By providing the positioning member 313, the circuit board 321 is guided during the installation of the circuit board 321 onto the bracket 31, and after assembly, minor movement of the circuit board 321 in the thickness direction, length direction, or width direction is suppressed, thereby improving the consistency and stability of the overall assembly of the light-emitting component 32. The positioning element 313 can be a cylindrical positioning post, a square positioning block, or a wedge-shaped positioning protrusion with a chamfered guide surface, or a snap-fit positioning element 313 with an elastic latch; the positioning groove 3211 can be a round hole groove, a square hole groove, an oblong groove, or a bayonet groove with a guide bevel. The positioning element 313 and the positioning groove 3211 can be a clearance fit, a slight interference fit, or an elastic snap-fit fit.
[0074] See Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, the bracket 31 specifically includes a enclosure portion 311 and a support portion 312. Both the enclosure portion 311 and the support portion 312 are annular structures. The outer ring wall of the support portion 312 is connected to the inner ring wall of the enclosure portion 311. The enclosure portion 311 encloses and forms an accommodating space, within which the light-emitting module 30 is located. The end of the light guide plate 33 facing away from the shielding plate 34 abuts against and is connected to the support portion 312. The circuit board 321 is connected to the end face of the light guide plate 33 facing away from the support portion 312.
[0075] The outer ring shape and dimensions of the support portion 312 are the same as those of the inner ring shape and dimensions of the enclosure portion 311. The enclosure portion 311 and the support portion 312 can be separately arranged, and the inner ring wall of the enclosure portion 311 and the outer ring wall of the support portion 312 can be connected by welding or bonding; alternatively, the enclosure portion 311 and the support portion 312 can also be integrally injection molded. The enclosure portion 311 can be understood as a closed perimeter structure around the bracket 31, which together with the support portion 312 forms an accommodating space, in which the light-emitting module 30 is located. The support portion 312 is an annular support structure disposed inside the enclosure portion 311, with the light guide plate 33 supported on the support portion 312, and the circuit board 321 supported on the end face of the light guide plate 33 facing away from the support portion 312. The light guide plate 33 is circumferentially supported, while the circuit board 321 is disposed and supported on the end face of the light guide plate 33 facing away from the support portion 312, so that the light emitted by the light-emitting element 322 can first enter the light guide plate 33 and then be transmitted outward. At this time, the light guide plate 33 is connected to the support portion 312 by adhesive, and the circuit board 321 is connected to the light guide plate 33 by adhesive. The positioning member 313 is disposed on the inner ring wall of the enclosure portion 311 and protrudes towards the circuit board 321.
[0076] In some embodiments, a protruding ring 341 protrudes from the end face of the shielding plate 34 facing away from the light guide plate 33 towards the second frame 12. The protruding ring 341 is an annular structure, and an annular space is formed between the protruding ring 341 and the enclosure portion 311. The circuit board 321 is located within the annular space, and the annular space is suitable for filling with adhesive to seal and connect the circuit board 321 within the annular space. The main function of the outer annular wall of the protruding ring 341 and the inner annular wall of the enclosure portion 311 is to provide limiting boundaries and sealing enclosure boundaries for the adhesive, so that the adhesive can be evenly distributed along the annular space and cover the end face of the circuit board 321 facing away from the first frame 11 after filling. The filled adhesive can not only bond the circuit board 321 to the protruding ring 341 and the enclosure portion 311, but also enhance the dustproof, moisture-proof and vibration-damping effects.
[0077] In some embodiments, the inner ring wall of the support portion 312 is provided with a chamfer 3121, such that the inner ring wall of the support portion 312 is configured such that the space enclosed by the inner ring wall of the support portion 312 gradually increases along the direction from the end of the support portion 312 near the light guide plate 33 to the end of the support portion 312 away from the light guide plate 33.
[0078] The chamfer 3121 forms a guiding transition structure for the inner ring wall of the support portion 312. It is defined as an inclined surface on a local edge or the entire inner wall, used to change the effective opening size of the cavity within the support portion 312. Specifically, the chamfer 3121 can be a single-sided inclined surface, a double-sided symmetrical inclined surface, or a circular arc transition surface, a conical guide surface, or a stepped flared surface. By setting the chamfer 3121, the inner ring wall of the support portion 312 is configured such that the space enclosed by the inner ring wall gradually increases along the direction from the end of the support portion 312 near the light guide plate 33 to the end of the support portion 312 near the first frame 11. This results in a relatively converging guide opening at the end near the light guide plate 33 and a relatively expanded receiving section at the end near the first frame 11, thereby achieving a gradually expanding fit from tight to loose, thus improving the light diffusion range.
[0079] See Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the functional module 100 further includes a diffuser 60, which includes a diffuser body 61 and a plurality of diffuser portions 62 protruding from the diffuser body 61. The diffuser body 61 is located between the first frame 11 and the light-emitting module 30, and the diffuser portions 62 are inserted into the light-emitting holes 1111.
[0080] The diffuser 60 is an optical component used to diffuse, homogenize, and improve the appearance of light emitted by the light-emitting module 30. Its main function is to reshape the light beam, so that the locally concentrated light spots form a softer and more uniform light emission effect after passing through the first frame 11. The first frame 11 has multiple light emission holes 1111 at the light emission position 111, and the light emission holes 1111 penetrate the first frame 11. The diffuser 60 is located between the first frame 11 and the light-emitting module 30, and the diffuser part 62 can be inserted into the light emission hole 1111. The diffuser 60 is installed between the first frame 11 and the light-emitting module 30, specifically on the light path of the light guide plate 33 or the light-emitting element 322, so that the light from the light-emitting module 30 is first shaped by the diffuser 60 before passing through the first frame 11 and being output outward. Multiple diffuser sections 62 are respectively provided with multiple light-emitting holes 1111, and are inserted into the light-emitting holes 1111 during assembly to form a plug-in fit, thereby achieving a synergistic effect of positioning, limiting and guiding the light path in the thickness direction. The diffuser body 61 and diffuser section 62 can be in the form of transparent or semi-transparent flat plate, thin film or sheet structure, or irregular plate structure with microstructure scattering surface. The materials can be PMMA, PC, PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), silicone diffusion material, transparent resin containing scattering particles and other materials with light transmission and diffusion capabilities. If necessary, atomizing particles, microspheres or scattering fillers can be added into the material to enhance the diffusion effect.
[0081] It should be noted that in practical applications, the shape and size of the light-emitting aperture 1111 are not limited, and the shape and size of the diffuser part 62 of the diffuser 60 need to be determined according to the shape and size of the light-emitting aperture 1111.
[0082] See Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the bracket 31 is provided with an abutment portion 315, which abuts against the end face of the diffuser body 61 facing the light-emitting module 30. When the light-emitting module 30 is connected to the first frame 11, the abutment portion 315 abuts against the end face of the diffuser body 61 facing the light-emitting module 30. This abutment portion 315 is a limiting contact structure, used to provide termination positioning and fitting support when the light-emitting module 30 is installed into the first frame 11 and cooperates with the diffuser 60. The function of the abutment portion 315 is to enable the light-emitting module 30 to achieve the limiting of the diffuser 60 in the thickness direction of the functional module 100 through its contact relationship with the end face of the diffuser body 61 after the light-emitting module 30 is assembled.
[0083] In some embodiments, the functional module 100 further includes a vision module 40 and a sound module 50, which are mounted on the functional box 10 and arranged along the length of the functional module 100.
[0084] The vision module 40 can be a camera module, an image acquisition sensor, an infrared vision recognition unit, or an optical component with a light-transmitting window. Its function is to acquire images of the external environment, realize target recognition, or assist in interaction. The sound module 50 can be a speaker, a buzzer, a piezoelectric sound-generating device, an acoustic unit, or a sound-emitting component with a sound hole. Its function is to output prompt sounds, voice broadcasts, or status alarm signals.
[0085] The first frame 11 also includes a first mounting position 112, which is provided with a surrounding plate 1121. The surrounding plate 1121 encloses and forms an insertion space, in which the vision module 40 is inserted, and the vision module 40 is connected to the surrounding plate 1121. The first mounting position 112 can be understood as a dedicated mounting area on the first frame 11 for supporting the vision module 40. The surrounding plate 1121 is an enclosure structure set around the first mounting position 112, used to define the installation boundary of the vision module 40 and provide insertion guidance. The insertion space formed by the surrounding plate 1121 is used to accommodate at least a portion of the main body of the vision module 40, allowing the vision module 40 to enter the first mounting position 112 along a predetermined insertion direction and achieve positioning installation. The connection relationship between the surrounding plate 1121 and the vision module 40 can be one or more of the following: snap-fit, abutment, screw locking, adhesive fixing, or elastic clamping, to ensure that the vision module 40 remains stable during use and is not prone to loosening, displacement, or shaking. By setting up the enclosure 1121, not only can it provide assembly guidance and circumferential limit for the vision module 40, but it can also form a shielding boundary around the vision module 40, thereby improving the structural integrity and appearance consistency after installation.
[0086] The functional box 10 also includes a fixing plate 13, the second frame 12 is provided with a second mounting post 121, the fixing plate 13 is connected to the second mounting post 121, and the sound module 50 is connected to the fixing plate 13.
[0087] The fixing plate 13 is a plate-shaped support member, whose main function is to provide an installation reference for the sound-generating module 50, allowing the sound-generating module 50 to be connected to the fixing plate 13. The sound-generating module 50 can be connected to the fixing plate 13 by snap-fit, fastening, or screws. When the fixing plate 13 is connected to the second mounting post 121, the second mounting post 121 can serve as a positioning and limiting structure, used to limit the assembly position of the fixing plate 13 on the second frame 12, and improve the vibration resistance stability after installation. This allows the vibration generated by the sound-generating module 50 during operation to be transmitted through the fixing plate 13 and absorbed or constrained by the functional box 10, thereby reducing the risk of resonance and maintaining the stability of the acoustic output. The fixing plate 13 can be connected to the second mounting post 121 by screws, snap-fit, riveting, or adhesive to achieve reliable fixation.
[0088] In some embodiments, the first frame 11 further includes a second mounting position 113. The light-emitting position 111, the first mounting position 112, and the second mounting position 113 are arranged along the length direction of the functional module 100. The light-emitting position 111 is located between the first mounting position 112 and the second mounting position 113. The second mounting position 113 is configured as a slot structure, so that when the sound-emitting module 50 is fixed by the fixing plate 13, the sound-emitting part of the sound-emitting module 50 can be inserted into the second mounting position 113. The first frame 11 has a sound-emitting hole corresponding to the position of the second mounting position 113, and the sound-emitting hole is disposed through the first frame 11.
[0089] The light-emitting position 111 is located between the first mounting position 112 and the second mounting position 113, so that the assembled vision module 40 and the sound-emitting module 50 are respectively located on both sides of the light-emitting module 30 along the length of the functional module 100. The light-emitting position 111 is used to cooperate with the installation of the light-emitting module 30. The arrangement of the first mounting position 112 and the second mounting position 113 in the length direction allows each module to form sequentially separated functional areas in the plane of the functional box 10, thereby reducing the mutual obstruction between the vision module 40 and the sound-emitting module 50, and facilitating the simultaneous fulfillment of the installation requirements for imaging, sound emission, and illumination within a limited housing length. In addition, the above solution can also make the lighting, vision, and sound functions more suitable for the integrated design of miniaturized and modular products, which is beneficial to the thinning of the functional module 100.
[0090] In some embodiments, along the thickness direction of the functional module 100, the fixing plate 13 is located between the light-emitting module 30 and the second frame 12, and the orthographic projection of the fixing plate 13 is located on the light-emitting module 30. The fixing plate 13 is a structural plate that fixes the sound-emitting module 50 or related auxiliary components. Its main function is to form a stable intermediate mounting layer between the second frame 12 and the light-emitting module 30, thereby realizing the layered arrangement of modules within a limited thickness space and reducing mutual interference between components. The fixing plate 13 can serve as both a mounting base for the sound-emitting module 50 and a shielding of the structure on the side of the second frame 12, making the arrangement position of the sound-emitting module 50 more stable and reducing space occupation caused by the same layer arrangement of multiple modules.
[0091] See Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the signal module 20 includes a module body 21 and a mounting base 22. A third fixing post 123 is provided on the function box 10. The mounting base 22 is adapted to connect to the third fixing post 123 and press the module body 21 against the function box 10. The module body 21 is a core functional unit used to carry signal processing, wireless communication, or control circuits. Its function is to realize signal transmission and reception, data exchange, or communication control inside and outside the function module 100. The mounting base 22 is an installation structure used to support, position, and fix the module body 21. Its function is to stably assemble the module body 21 onto the second frame 12. The mounting base 22 can be connected to the second frame 12 by snap-fit, fastening, or screws. The module body 21 can be clamped between the mounting base 22 and the second frame 12 to define the position of the module body 21.
[0092] See Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in some other embodiments, the signal module 20 can also be connected to the column 300. Specifically, the functional module 100 further includes a second fixing frame 70, which includes a second fixing part 71 and a second binding part 72 connected to each other. The mounting base 22 is connected to the second fixing part 71, the module body 21 is sandwiched between the mounting base 22 and the second fixing part 71, the second fixing part 71 is connected between the third fixing column 123 and the mounting base 22, and the second binding part 72 is arranged in a ring and is adapted to be sleeved on the column 300 of the steering structure.
[0093] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.
[0094] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprising" and "having" and any variations thereof used in the embodiments of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes two series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not explicitly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product, or device.
[0095] Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or a two-part connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the connection within two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances. Furthermore, the terms "second," "second," etc., 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.
[0096] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A functional module, characterized in that, include: Functional box; The signal module is connected to the column of the functional box and / or the steering structure; as well as A light-emitting module is connected to the column of the functional box and / or the steering structure. The light-emitting module includes a bracket and a light-emitting component. The light-emitting component is connected to the bracket. The bracket includes a mounting area. A signal module transmits and receives signals along the thickness direction of the functional module. The orthographic projection of the structure of the signal module for transmitting and receiving signals toward the bracket is located within the mounting area. The orthographic projection of the light-emitting component toward the bracket is located outside the mounting area.
2. The functional module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The light-emitting module also includes a shield, which is a non-metallic component. The shield is located within the mounting area, and the light-emitting component is disposed on the periphery of the shield. Along the thickness direction of the functional module, the light-emitting position of the light-emitting component and the signal module are respectively located on opposite sides of the shield.
3. The functional module as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The light-emitting module also includes a light guide plate, which is connected to the bracket and is disposed on the side of the shield facing away from the signal module. The light-emitting component can emit light toward the light guide plate.
4. The functional module as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The light-emitting component includes a circuit board and at least one light-emitting element disposed on the circuit board. The circuit board is connected to the light guide plate, and the light-emitting element is located at the side end of the light guide plate along the width direction of the functional module.
5. The functional module as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The bracket includes a enclosure part and a support part, both of which are annular structures. The outer ring wall of the support part is connected to the inner ring wall of the enclosure part. The enclosure part forms an accommodating space. The light-emitting module is located in the accommodating space. The end of the light guide plate facing away from the shielding plate abuts against and is connected to the support part. The circuit board is connected to the end face of the light guide plate facing away from the support part.
6. The functional module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The edge of the circuit board extends to abut against the inner wall of the enclosure. The inner wall of the enclosure is provided with a positioning member. The circuit board is provided with a positioning groove corresponding to the position of the positioning member. The positioning member is adapted to be inserted into the positioning groove so as to fix the position of the circuit board relative to the bracket.
7. The functional module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The shielding plate has a protruding ring on the end face of the light guide plate facing the signal module. The protruding ring is a ring structure. An annular space is formed between the protruding ring and the enclosure. The circuit board is located in the annular space, and the annular space is suitable for filling with glue to seal and connect the circuit board in the annular space.
8. The functional module as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The inner ring wall of the support is provided with a chamfer, so that the inner ring wall of the support is configured such that the space enclosed by the inner ring wall of the support gradually increases along the direction from the end of the support near the light guide plate to the end of the support away from the light guide plate.
9. The functional module as described in any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The functional box includes a first frame and a second frame, with an internal cavity surrounding the first frame and the second frame, and the signal module and the light-emitting module are both located within the internal cavity.
10. The functional module as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The first frame has a light-emitting position facing the light-emitting module, and the light-emitting position has a plurality of light-emitting holes that penetrate the first frame.
11. The functional module as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The functional module further includes a diffuser, which includes a diffuser body and a plurality of diffuser portions protruding from the diffuser body. The diffuser body is located between the first frame and the light-emitting module, and the diffuser portions are inserted into the light-emitting holes.
12. The functional module as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The bracket is provided with an abutting part, which abuts against the end face of the diffuser body facing the light-emitting module.
13. The functional module as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The functional module further includes a visual module and a sound module, which are installed in the functional box and arranged along the length of the functional module.
14. The functional module as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The first frame further includes a first mounting position, which is provided with a surrounding plate. The surrounding plate forms an insertion space, in which the vision module is inserted, and the vision module and the surrounding plate are connected.
15. The functional module as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The functional box also includes a fixing plate, the second frame is provided with a second mounting column, the fixing plate is connected to the second mounting column, and the sound-generating module is connected to the fixing plate.
16. The functional module as described in claim 15, characterized in that, Along the thickness direction of the functional module, the fixing plate is located between the light-emitting module and the second frame, and the orthographic projection of the fixing plate is located on the light-emitting module.
17. The functional module as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The first frame is provided with a first fixing post, and the second frame is provided with a second fixing post at the position corresponding to the first fixing post. The first fixing post and the second fixing post are connected by screws.
18. The functional module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The signal module includes a module body and a mounting base. A third fixing post is provided on the function box. The mounting base is adapted to connect to the third fixing post and press the module body tightly against the function box.
19. A steering structure, characterized in that, The device includes a handle, a column, and a functional module as described in any one of claims 1-18, wherein the handle is connected to the column, and the functional module includes a first fixing frame connected to the functional box, the first fixing frame being adapted to be connected to the column.
20. A scooter, characterized in that, It includes a walking structure and a steering structure as described in claim 19, wherein the steering structure is rotatably connected to the walking structure.