Folding mechanism, steering wheel and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a folding mechanism, steering wheel and vehicle, this folding mechanism realizes the translation and the turnover function through one drive arrangement simultaneously to simplify the structure of folding mechanism, reduce its space occupation to reduce use and maintenance cost. Through single drive arrangement realizes multifunctional operation, avoided the problem that need multiple drive arrangements or complex linkage mechanism in traditional scheme to simplify the structure significantly, reduced manufacturing and maintenance cost. Meanwhile, since the translation and the turnover function are completed by the same drive arrangement, can realize the turnover of translation in the folding process, can avoid the interference problem caused by turnover folding, improves the reliability and stability of folding process.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In related technologies, the steering wheel, as an important component of the steering system, is usually located in the driver's cab, allowing the driver to adjust the steering of the wheels and thus the vehicle's direction. Currently, the steering wheel and steering column are relatively fixed. In scenarios where the steering wheel is not needed, it occupies a significant amount of space in the driver's seat. Therefore, some steering wheels in related technologies have a flip-folding function. However, steering wheel folding mechanisms are typically complex in structure, occupy a lot of space, and have high usage and maintenance costs, thus leaving room for improvement. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a folding mechanism, a steering wheel using the folding mechanism, and a vehicle using the steering wheel, aiming to simplify the structure of the folding mechanism, reduce its space occupation, and lower usage and maintenance costs.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this application, a folding mechanism is provided, the folding mechanism being adapted to fold a steering wheel, the steering wheel including a first sub-spoke and a second sub-spoke; the folding mechanism includes:

[0005] Drive unit;

[0006] A translation component, adapted to be driven to translate by the driving device;

[0007] A flipping component is adapted to be linked with the translation component and to cause at least one of the first and second sub-spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position.

[0008] In some alternative embodiments, the folding mechanism further includes a base on which a guide track is formed;

[0009] The flipping component is adapted to be rotatably connected to the translation component and includes a guide portion. The guide portion is spaced apart from the rotatably connected component and is adapted to move along the guide trajectory to drive the flipping component to rotate.

[0010] In some alternative implementations, the guide trajectory is constructed as one of a guide groove, a guide surface, or a guide slope.

[0011] In some alternative implementations, the flipping component includes:

[0012] A spoke support frame is used to mount the first sub-spoke or the second sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the translation assembly;

[0013] The roller is rotatably connected to the spoke support frame and is configured as the guide.

[0014] In some alternative embodiments, the spoke support frame and the base are provided with mutually cooperating limiting portions to limit the extreme positions of the flipping assembly.

[0015] In some alternative embodiments, the driving device includes a driving member and a lead screw driven by the driving member; the translation assembly includes a slider screwed to the outer periphery of the lead screw; and the flipping assembly is adapted to be rotatably connected to the slider.

[0016] In some alternative embodiments, the drive device further includes a transmission assembly that is drively connected between the drive member and the lead screw.

[0017] In some alternative embodiments, the transmission assembly is configured as a gear transmission assembly.

[0018] In some alternative embodiments, the translation component includes a first translation component and a second translation component, the first translation component and the second translation component being adapted to be driven to translate by the driving device;

[0019] The flipping assembly includes a first flipping assembly and a second flipping assembly. The first flipping assembly is linked with the first translation assembly to drive the first sub-wheel spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position. The second flipping assembly is linked with the second translation assembly to drive the second sub-wheel spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position.

[0020] In some alternative implementations, the translation directions of the first translation component and the second translation component are opposite.

[0021] In some alternative embodiments, when the first flipping component drives the first sub-spoke to flip from the unfolded position to the retracted position, and when the second flipping component drives the second sub-spoke to flip from the unfolded position to the retracted position, the first translation component and the second translation component move away from each other.

[0022] In some alternative embodiments, the driving device includes a driving member and a lead screw driven by the driving member; the lead screw includes a first lead screw section and a second lead screw section, the threads of the first lead screw section and the second lead screw section having opposite directions; the first translation assembly includes a first slider screwed to the outer periphery of the first lead screw section; the second translation assembly includes a second slider screwed to the outer periphery of the second lead screw section.

[0023] In some alternative embodiments, the folding mechanism further includes a base on which a first guide track and a second guide track are formed; the first flipping component includes a first guide portion adapted to move along the first guide track to drive the first flipping component to rotate; the second flipping component includes a second guide portion adapted to move along the second guide track to drive the second flipping component to rotate.

[0024] In some alternative embodiments, the first flipping assembly includes a first spoke support frame for mounting the first sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the first translation assembly; the second flipping assembly includes a second spoke support frame for mounting the second sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the second translation assembly.

[0025] In some alternative embodiments, the first translation component and the second translation component are symmetrically arranged; the first flip component and the second flip component are symmetrically arranged.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a steering wheel is provided, the steering wheel including a first sub-spoke, a second sub-spoke, and the folding mechanism.

[0027] In some alternative embodiments, when the steering wheel assembly is in the center position, the first and second sub-wheel spokes are left-right symmetrical.

[0028] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a means of transportation is provided, the means of transportation having a steering wheel for controlling it, the steering wheel being the aforementioned steering wheel.

[0029] In the aforementioned folding mechanism, steering wheel, and vehicle, a single drive unit simultaneously achieves translation and flipping functions, thereby simplifying the structure of the folding mechanism, reducing its space occupation, and lowering usage and maintenance costs. Specifically, the drive unit drives the translation component, which is linked with the flipping component. This allows the flipping component to translate under the drive of the translation component. Simultaneously, under the drive of the translation component, the flipping component can also flip, causing at least one of the first and second sub-spokes of the steering wheel to flip between the unfolded and folded positions. In this way, the translation and flipping of the first and / or second sub-spokes are achieved.

[0030] This folding mechanism achieves multi-functional operation through a single drive unit, avoiding the problems of requiring multiple drive units or complex linkage mechanisms in traditional solutions. This significantly simplifies the structure and reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs. Furthermore, since the translation and flipping functions are completed by the same drive unit, translation and flipping can be performed simultaneously during folding, avoiding interference problems caused by flipping during folding and improving the reliability and stability of the folding process. In addition, this solution effectively reduces the space occupied by the folding mechanism, offering significant advantages in scenarios where space saving is crucial. The folded steering wheel is also easy to store and conceal.

[0031] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main view portion of the steering wheel in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0035] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the steering wheel shown.

[0036] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the base in the steering wheel.

[0037] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the first steering wheel handwheel in the steering wheel shown.

[0038] Figure 5 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the first translation component in the steering wheel.

[0039] Figure 6 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the drive unit in the steering wheel.

[0040] Figure 7 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the changes in the steering wheel's motion state.

[0041] Figure label:

[0042] 1. First steering wheel handwheel; 2. Second steering wheel handwheel; 3. Base; 4. Second translation assembly; 5. First translation assembly; 6. Drive component; 7. Lead screw; 8. Steering column; 11. Left handwheel outer trim panel; 12. First handwheel frame connecting plate; 13. First wheel spoke; 14. First handwheel support frame; 15. First guide section; 31. First trim panel of base; 32. Second trim panel of base; 33. Base cover; 34. Third trim panel of base; 35. Upper support frame of base; 36. First sealing plate; 37. Lower support frame of base; 38. Base inspection cover; 39. Second sealing plate; 51. First steering wheel handwheel... 52. Shaft; 53. Cover; 54. Cover screw; 75. First slider; 76. First lead screw section; 77. Second lead screw section; 78. Gear; 121. First frame connecting plate fixing screw; 89. Hand-feel motor shaft; 80. Fastening nut; 141. Limiting part; 152. Roller; 153. Cap; 154. Second shaft; 375. Fastener; 376. Base lower support frame connecting screw; 377. Mounting hole; 377. Positioning pin; 397. Second sealing plate bolt; 548. Trapezoidal threaded hole; 549. Shaft hole; 620. Fixing hole; 621. Positioning pin; 100. Steering wheel. Detailed Implementation

[0043] 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 a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0044] To achieve the above objectives, participants Figures 1 to 7 As shown, this embodiment of the present invention provides a folding mechanism applicable to a folding steering wheel 100. Accordingly, the steering wheel 100 includes a first sub-spoke and a second sub-spoke. The folding mechanism includes a drive device, a translation component, and a flipping component.

[0045] The translation component is adapted to be driven to translate by the drive device.

[0046] The flipping component is adapted to be linked with the translation component and to cause at least one of the first and second sub-spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position.

[0047] Specifically, when the drive unit is activated, its output power is first transmitted to the translation component, driving the translation component to move along a predetermined trajectory. During the translation process, the translation component, through its linkage with the flipping component, drives the flipping component to move.

[0048] When the drive device drives the translation component to perform translational motion, the translation component not only moves itself along a straight trajectory, but also transmits the translational motion to the flipping component through its mechanical connection with the flipping component.

[0049] In this process, the movement of the flipping component is not simply rotation or translation, but includes two components: translation component and rotation component.

[0050] As the translation component moves along a predetermined trajectory under the drive of the driving device, the flipping component also moves in the same or related direction through a linkage structure with the translation component. This translational motion causes a change in the overall position of the flipping component, thereby causing the first and / or second sub-spokes connected to it to translate in space, providing positional adjustment for folding or unfolding operations.

[0051] Driven by the translation component, the linkage structure of the flipping component can be designed to generate rotational motion while translating. This rotational motion causes the flipping component to rotate around a certain axis, thereby causing the first sub-spoke and / or the second sub-spoke to flip between the unfolded position and the retracted position.

[0052] By linking the translation and flipping components, the steering wheel 100 achieves coordinated translation and flipping operations on the first and / or second sub-spokes. This allows the steering wheel 100 to both translate its position and flip its angle during folding, resulting in a smooth transition from the unfolded to the folded state. This design not only improves the reliability and stability of the folding process but also effectively reduces the size of the mechanism, making it suitable for applications with high space requirements.

[0053] Under the rotation of the flipping component, the first and / or second spokes of the steering wheel 100 are driven to flip between the unfolded and folded positions. During the flipping process, the continuous translational motion of the translation component works in conjunction with the rotational motion of the flipping component, causing the first and / or second spokes to translate their positions while flipping, thus completing the folding process from the unfolded state to the folded state.

[0054] Understandably, in practice, at least one of the first and second sub-wheel spokes can be translated and flipped as needed.

[0055] Specifically, during the translation and flipping process of the folding mechanism, only the first sub-wheel spoke can be driven to achieve translation and flipping, only the second sub-wheel spoke can be driven to achieve translation and flipping, or both the first and second sub-wheel spokes can be driven to achieve translation and flipping, depending on the design requirements and application scenarios of the folding mechanism.

[0056] For example, in some implementations, the folding function of the steering wheel 100 may only require flipping one side of the spokes to achieve partial folding, thereby saving space; while in other designs, it may be necessary to flip both the first and second spokes simultaneously to achieve a more thorough storage or a more symmetrical folding effect.

[0057] For example, when folding on one side, only the first or second spoke of the wheel rotates, which is suitable for scenarios where partial folding is required while retaining some operational functions. When folding on both sides, both the first and second spokes rotate simultaneously, which is suitable for scenarios where the steering wheel needs to be completely stowed away to save space.

[0058] It is understood that the folding mechanism can also be applied to other scenarios that require device folding, as long as it meets the inventive concept of this application.

[0059] In some alternative embodiments, the folding mechanism further includes a base 3 on which a guide track is formed;

[0060] The flipping component is adapted to be rotatably connected to the translation component and includes a guide portion. The guide portion is spaced apart from the rotatably connected component and is adapted to move along the guide trajectory to drive the flipping component to rotate.

[0061] The base 3 is equipped with a guide track for guiding and constraining the movement of the flipping component.

[0062] When the drive unit is activated, its output power is first transmitted to the translation component, driving it to translate along a predetermined trajectory. During translation, the translation component, through its rotational connection with the flipping component, drives the flipping component to move. At this time, the guide portion on the flipping component slides along the guide trajectory on the base 3. The shape and direction of the guide trajectory determine the movement path of the flipping component, thereby controlling its coordinated translation and flipping actions.

[0063] In this process, the linear motion of the translation component and the rotational motion of the flipping component are synchronized and coordinated through the constraints of the guide trajectory. The sliding of the guide part on the guide trajectory not only limits the direction of motion of the flipping component, but also, through its relative positional relationship with the rotation connection point, causes the flipping component to rotate while translating, thereby driving the first sub-spoke and / or the second sub-spoke connected to it to flip between the unfolded position and the retracted position.

[0064] The cooperation between the guide trajectory on the base 3 and the guide part on the flipping assembly can be compared to the structure of a cam mechanism. In a cam mechanism, it usually consists of a cam with a specific profile and a follower. The rotation of the cam drives the follower to reciprocate or rotate along a predetermined trajectory.

[0065] In this embodiment, the guide trajectory on the base 3 is equivalent to the profile of the cam, and the guide part on the flipping assembly is equivalent to the follower, which slides on the guide trajectory to realize the motion control of the flipping assembly.

[0066] In some alternative implementations, the guide trajectory is constructed as one of a guide groove, a guide surface, or a guide slope.

[0067] By constructing the guide trajectory as one of a guide groove, guide surface, or guide slope, precise control of the movement path of the flipping component can be achieved, thereby enabling coordinated translation and flipping operations. This design features a simple structure and smooth movement, making it suitable for applications with high space requirements, such as foldable steering wheels 100 in vehicles or other folding devices.

[0068] In some alternative implementations, the flipping component includes:

[0069] A spoke support frame is used to mount the first sub-spoke or the second sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the translation assembly;

[0070] Roller 151 is rotatably connected to the spoke support frame and is configured as the guide.

[0071] In practical implementation, the flipping assembly includes two key components: a spoke support frame and a roller 151. The spoke support frame is used to mount the first or second sub-spoke and is rotatably connected to the translation assembly; the roller 151 is rotatably connected to the spoke support frame and serves as a guide, cooperating with the guide track on the base 3.

[0072] When the drive unit is started, its output power is transmitted to the translation component, which then performs translational motion along a predetermined trajectory. Since the translation component and the spoke support frame are rotatably connected, the spoke support frame can rotate around its connection point when the translation component moves, thereby causing the first or second sub-spoke connected to it to flip.

[0073] Meanwhile, roller 151 serves as a guide for the flipping assembly, engaging with a guide track (such as a guide groove, guide surface, or guide slope) on the base 3. As the spoke support frame moves under the drive of the translation assembly, roller 151 slides along the guide track, and its sliding path determines the rotation angle and direction of the spoke support frame, thereby further controlling the flipping process of the first or second sub-spoke.

[0074] The rolling contact between the roller 151 and the guide track can reduce friction and vibration during the movement, making the flipping process smoother.

[0075] In some alternative embodiments, the spoke support frame and the base 3 are provided with mutually cooperating limiting portions 141 to limit the extreme positions of the flipping assembly.

[0076] When the flipping component rotates under the drive of the translation component, the limiting part 141 on its spoke support frame and the limiting part 141 on the base 3 come into contact or engage during the movement. When the flipping component reaches the set limit position (such as fully unfolded or fully retracted), the limiting parts 141 act as a stop, preventing the flipping component from continuing to move, thereby achieving precise control over the flipping angle or position.

[0077] For example, when the flipping assembly flips from the unfolded position to the retracted position, as the spoke support frame rotates, the limiting part 141 on it gradually approaches the limiting part 141 on the base 3. When the two contact and reach a predetermined limit angle, the engagement between the limiting parts 141 will prevent further flipping, thereby ensuring that the flipping assembly stops at the designated position and avoiding structural damage or operational failure due to over-displacement.

[0078] In some alternative embodiments, the driving device includes a driving member 6 and a lead screw 7 driven by the driving member 6; the translation assembly includes a slider 54 screwed to the outer periphery of the lead screw 7; and the flipping assembly is adapted to be rotatably connected to the slider 54.

[0079] When the drive unit 6 (such as a drive motor) is started, its output shaft drives the lead screw 7 to rotate. Since the slider 54 is screwed to the outer circumference of the lead screw 7, the rotation of the lead screw 7 will be converted into the linear translational motion of the slider 54, and the slider 54 will move along the axial direction of the lead screw 7.

[0080] The flipping component and the slider 54 are rotatably connected, meaning the flipping component can rotate relative to the slider 54 about a certain axis, but at the same time moves along a straight line with the slider 54. Therefore, when the slider 54 is translated under the drive of the lead screw 7, the flipping component also moves with the slider 54.

[0081] During the translation of slider 54, since the flipping component and slider 54 are rotatably connected, it can rotate around the connection point when it moves, thereby causing the first or second sub-spoke connected to it to flip between the unfolded position and the retracted position.

[0082] This structure achieves precise translation control through the threaded transmission of the lead screw 7 and slider 54, while utilizing a rotary connection to enable the flipping component to rotate during translation, thereby achieving coordinated operation of translation and flipping.

[0083] In some alternative embodiments, the drive device further includes a transmission assembly that is driveably connected between the drive member 6 and the lead screw 7. For example, in some alternative embodiments, the transmission assembly is configured as a gear transmission assembly.

[0084] The gear transmission assembly consists of a drive gear and a driven gear. The drive gear is connected to the output shaft of the drive component 6, and the driven gear is connected to the lead screw 7. The drive gear and the driven gear transmit power from the drive component 6 to the lead screw 7 through meshing. At the same time, the speed can be adjusted or the direction can be changed according to the gear transmission ratio.

[0085] In some alternative embodiments, the translation component includes a first translation component 5 and a second translation component 4, the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 being adapted to be driven to translate by the driving device;

[0086] The flipping assembly includes a first flipping assembly and a second flipping assembly. The first flipping assembly is linked with the first translation assembly 5 to drive the first sub-wheel spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position. The second flipping assembly is linked with the second translation assembly 4 to drive the second sub-wheel spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position.

[0087] This implementation sets the translation component and the flipping component into two groups respectively, and achieves double-sided folding through a linkage structure, thereby realizing the translation and flipping of the first and second sub-spokes.

[0088] In some optional embodiments, the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 translate in opposite directions. For example, in some optional embodiments, when the first flipping component drives the first sub-spoke to flip from the unfolded position to the retracted position, and the second flipping component drives the second sub-spoke to flip from the unfolded position to the retracted position, the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 move away from each other.

[0089] During the folding process, by precisely controlling the linkage between translation and flipping, it can be ensured that the spokes of the sub-wheel do not interfere with each other when unfolding and storing, thereby improving the convenience of operation and the safety of use.

[0090] In some alternative embodiments, the driving device includes a driving member 6 and a lead screw 7 driven by the driving member 6; the lead screw 7 includes a first lead screw section 71 and a second lead screw section 72, the threads of the first lead screw section 71 and the second lead screw section 72 having opposite directions; the first translation assembly 5 includes a first slider 54 screwed to the outer periphery of the first lead screw section 71; the second translation assembly 4 includes a second slider screwed to the outer periphery of the second lead screw section 72.

[0091] After the drive unit 6 is started, its output shaft drives the lead screw 7 to rotate. Since the threads of the first lead screw section 71 and the second lead screw section 72 are in opposite directions, when the lead screw 7 rotates as a whole, the first slider 54 and the second slider will move in opposite directions.

[0092] The first slider 54 is screwed onto the outer circumference of the first lead screw section 71. When the lead screw 7 rotates, the first slider 54 moves axially along the first lead screw section 71, thereby driving the first translation component 5 to move. The second slider is screwed onto the outer circumference of the second lead screw section 72. When the lead screw 7 rotates, the second slider moves axially along the second lead screw section 72, thereby driving the second translation component 4 to move. Since the threads of the first lead screw section 71 and the second lead screw section 72 have opposite directions of rotation, the first slider 54 and the second slider also move in opposite directions, thus achieving symmetrical movement of the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4.

[0093] The first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 can be synchronously driven by a single drive device, without the need for an additional drive source. The structure is compact and the control is simple.

[0094] In some alternative embodiments, the folding mechanism further includes a base 3 on which a first guide track and a second guide track are formed; the first flipping component includes a first guide portion 15 adapted to move along the first guide track to drive the first flipping component to rotate; the second flipping component includes a second guide portion adapted to move along the second guide track to drive the second flipping component to rotate.

[0095] In some alternative embodiments, the first flipping assembly includes a first spoke support frame 14 for mounting the first sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the first translation assembly 5; the second flipping assembly includes a second spoke support frame for mounting the second sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the second translation assembly 4.

[0096] The working principle and technical effect of the first guide track, the second guide track, the first guide part 15, and the second guide part are the same as those of the guide track and guide part in the aforementioned embodiments. Correspondingly, the working principle and technical effect of the first spoke support frame 14 and the second spoke support frame are the same as those of the spoke support frame in the aforementioned embodiments, and will not be described further.

[0097] In some alternative embodiments, the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 are symmetrically arranged; the first flip component and the second flip component are symmetrically arranged.

[0098] The first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 are located in symmetrical positions and are driven by a driving device. Under the drive of the driving device, the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4 can move synchronously, or in some embodiments, move in opposite directions to achieve symmetrical folding or symmetrical unfolding.

[0099] The first and second flipping components are linked to the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4, respectively, and are symmetrically arranged in structure and function. When the first translation component 5 moves, the first flipping component moves accordingly, causing the first sub-spoke to flip between the unfolded position and the retracted position; similarly, when the second translation component 4 moves, the second flipping component moves accordingly, causing the second sub-spoke to flip between the unfolded position and the retracted position.

[0100] Due to the symmetrical arrangement of the first translation component 5 and the second translation component 4, as well as the symmetrical arrangement of the first flip component and the second flip component, the first sub-spoke and the second sub-spoke can flip synchronously during the folding process, thereby achieving symmetrical folding and ensuring that the entire structure moves smoothly, symmetrically, and without interference when folding or unfolding.

[0101] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a steering wheel 100 is provided, the steering wheel 100 including a first sub-spoke, a second sub-spoke, and the folding mechanism.

[0102] In some alternative embodiments, when the steering wheel 100 is in the center position, the first and second sub-wheel spokes are left-right symmetrical.

[0103] In the centering position, the first and second spokes are symmetrically arranged, and their joint (i.e., the connection or transition area between the two spokes) can avoid the driver's hand grip, thereby preventing interference or discomfort to the driver's hand during the centering process or normal use, and improving operating comfort and safety.

[0104] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a means of transportation is provided, the means of transportation having a steering wheel 100 for controlling thereon, the steering wheel 100 being the aforementioned steering wheel 100.

[0105] In the aforementioned folding mechanism, steering wheel 100, and vehicle, a single drive device simultaneously achieves translation and flipping functions, thereby simplifying the structure of the folding mechanism, reducing its space occupation, and lowering usage and maintenance costs. Specifically, the drive device drives the translation component, which is linked with the flipping component. This allows the flipping component to translate under the drive of the translation component. Simultaneously, under the drive of the translation component, the flipping component can also flip, causing at least one of the first and second sub-spokes of the steering wheel 100 to flip between the unfolded and folded positions. In this way, the translation and flipping of the first and / or second sub-spokes are achieved.

[0106] This folding mechanism achieves multi-functional operation through a single drive unit, avoiding the problems of requiring multiple drive units or complex linkage mechanisms in traditional solutions. This significantly simplifies the structure and reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs. Furthermore, since the translation and flipping functions are performed by the same drive unit, translation and flipping can be achieved simultaneously during folding, avoiding interference problems caused by flipping during folding and improving the reliability and stability of the folding process. In addition, this solution effectively reduces the space occupied by the folding mechanism, offering significant advantages in scenarios where space conservation is crucial.

[0107] In some alternative embodiments, the steering wheel 100 may be configured as a drive-by-wire steering wheel 100.

[0108] In a Steer-by-Wire (SbW) system, there is no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels; the steering signal is transmitted electronically. This design provides greater flexibility for the steering wheel's folding function, as the steering wheel's rotation angle can be independent of the wheels' steering actions.

[0109] The aforementioned means of transportation can be any device capable of carrying people or being unmanned and controlled by a steering wheel 100, such as vehicles, ships, aircraft, etc. Since the aforementioned means of transportation includes all the technical features of the folding mechanism in the above embodiments, it also possesses all the technical effects corresponding to the folding mechanism. As the technical effects of the folding mechanism have already been described in detail above, they will not be repeated here.

[0110] To facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the foregoing concept, the following detailed embodiment will be used to describe the aforementioned solution. It should be noted that this embodiment may introduce additional technical details, which are merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to further limit the understanding. Some terms may differ from those in the foregoing embodiments; terms with the same reference numerals are understood to refer to the same structure as those in the foregoing embodiments.

[0111] This invention provides a rotary folding steering wheel mechanism, mainly composed of the following parts: 1. a left steering wheel handwheel, i.e., a first steering wheel handwheel; 2. a right steering wheel handwheel, i.e., a second steering wheel handwheel; 3. a base; 4. a right sliding mechanism, i.e., a second translation component; 5. a left sliding mechanism, i.e., a first translation component; 6. a driving component; 7. a lead screw; and 8. a steering column and a hand-feel motor. The left and right steering wheel handwheels are symmetrically structured; the left and right sliding mechanisms and their corresponding structures are also symmetrically arranged.

[0112] The left handwheel 1 of the steering wheel includes a left handwheel outer trim panel 11, a left handwheel frame connecting plate 12, a first wheel spoke 13, a first handwheel support frame 14, and a first guide part 15.

[0113] The left handwheel frame connecting plate 12 includes a first frame connecting plate fixing screw 121, the purpose of which is to connect the left handwheel support frame 14 with the left handwheel rim 13 to make them a whole.

[0114] The left handwheel support frame 14 includes a limiting part 141 thereon, such as a limiting groove or a limiting protrusion. The limiting groove or limiting protrusion matches the mechanical limiting protrusion or limiting groove on the base 3, and plays a mechanical limiting role when the steering wheel is unfolded.

[0115] The first guide section 15 includes a roller 151, a cap 152, a second rotating shaft 153, and a fastener 154. The roller 151 is mounted on the second rotating shaft 153 and is fixed to the left handwheel support frame 14 by the cap 152 and the fastener 154. The roller 151 can rotate around the second rotating shaft 153 and can roll on the roller rolling trajectory 332 on the base 3. Rolling along this trajectory drives the steering wheel handwheel to rotate around the first rotating shaft 51 to complete the rotation, for example, a 90° rotation.

[0116] The base 3 includes a left base panel 31, a right base panel 32, a base cover 33, and a middle base panel 34. These four parts can be designed as plastic structures and are snapped onto the support frame 35 on the base through a snap-fit ​​structure, serving to beautify or conceal the internal structure of the mechanism.

[0117] The support frame 35 on the base mainly cooperates with the corresponding structures on the left and right handwheels of the steering wheel above, serving as support and limiting functions. The left side sealing plate 36 of the support frame on the base is fixed to the upper support frame of the base 3 by the left side sealing plate fixing screw 361. Removing this sealing plate is mainly to facilitate the disassembly and assembly of the lead screw 7.

[0118] The lower support frame 37 includes connecting screws 371, which are used to fix the lower support frame to the upper support frame 35 of the base through mounting holes 372. Simultaneously, the drive mechanism 6 is fixed to the upper support frame 35 of the base, primarily accommodating the drive mechanism 6. The locating pin 373 above it serves to position the upper support frame 35 and the lower support frame 37, improving assembly accuracy.

[0119] The base inspection cover 38 is attached to the lower support frame 37 of the base by a snap-fit ​​fastener. Removing the inspection cover allows for the disassembly or assembly of the fastening nut 82 that secures the entire folding steering wheel to the steering column 8 and the hand-feed motor.

[0120] The lower base plate 39 is fixed to the lower base support frame 37 by the lower base plate bolt 391. The lower base plate 39 is used to fix the base 3 to the hand-feed motor shaft 81 of the steering column and the hand-feed motor 8 by the fastening nut 82. When the hand-feed motor shaft 81 rotates, it can drive the entire steering wheel to rotate 90 degrees around the steering column axis, which makes it convenient for the steering wheel to extend and retract into the instrument panel.

[0121] The left sliding mechanism 5, also known as the first translation component, comprises four parts: a first rotating shaft 51, a cover 52, a cover screw 53, and a left slider 54. The left slider 54 includes a trapezoidal threaded hole 541, which fits onto the left lead screw section 71 of the lead screw 7. The first rotating shaft 51 passes through the shaft hole 542 and the slider shaft hole 141 of the left handwheel 1, and then the cover 52 is fitted onto the shaft end and fixed by the cover screw 53. The first rotating shaft 51 moves linearly along the left lead screw section 71 via the left slider 54. The left handwheel 1 rotates around the first rotating shaft 51 under the action of the handwheel sliding mechanism 15 rolling along the rolling trajectory of the roller 332. A 90° rotation completes the left-right folding of the steering wheel.

[0122] The right sliding mechanism 4, also known as the second translation component, is symmetrical to the left sliding mechanism 5 and will not be described separately.

[0123] The drive mechanism 6 includes a drive motor 61, a drive upper cover 62, a drive lower cover 63, and a drive gear set 64. The entire mechanism is used to provide power to the system. The drive upper cover 62 has a positioning pin 622 and a fixing hole 621, which are used to fix the drive mechanism 6 to the support frame 36 on the base.

[0124] The lead screw 7 has three parts: a left lead screw section 71, a right lead screw section 72, and a gear 73. The left lead screw section 71 and the right lead screw section 72 rotate in opposite directions so that their left and right sliding mechanisms run in opposite directions when the lead screw rotates. The gear 73 is used to transmit the power of the drive mechanism 6 to the lead screw.

[0125] The steering column 8 and the hand-feed motor section include a hand-feed motor shaft 81 that transmits the rotation of the hand-feed motor to the entire steering wheel, enabling it to rotate 90 degrees to a horizontal position. This steering wheel folding control system consists of the following parts:

[0126] 1. Steering wheel handwheel, including Hall sensor and pressure sensor. When the steering wheel is folded, the controller determines whether the anti-pinch function is triggered by monitoring the value of the pressure sensor in real time. If the anti-pinch function is triggered, the steering wheel folding is stopped and the steering wheel is unfolded to the initial use state A. If not, the Hall sensor is monitored. When the value reaches the specified value, it is determined that the steering wheel has completed the folding action. Then the controller controls the hand motor to execute the steering wheel to rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise.

[0127] 2. Controller: The controller is used to receive and execute instructions and drive the actuators to complete actions. It also monitors the position and status of the actuators synchronously and provides timely feedback on the status of each actuator.

[0128] 3. Steering wheel extension mechanism: This mechanism includes the steering column, hand-feed motor, position sensor A, and position sensor B. The controller determines whether the steering wheel is in the extension state by monitoring the state of position sensor A. If it is, the controller executes the command to rotate the steering wheel 90 degrees clockwise; otherwise, it does not execute the command. The controller determines whether the steering wheel has completed the 90-degree clockwise rotation by monitoring the state of position sensor B. If it is, the controller executes the command to extend the steering wheel; otherwise, it does not execute the command.

[0129] The steering wheel can be controlled using the following approach.

[0130] Steering wheel usage state - State A: When the controller receives the steering wheel retraction command, it executes the steering wheel folding action. During this process, the controller monitors the pressure sensor value in real time. When the anti-pinch value is reached, the anti-pinch function is triggered, and the controller controls the steering wheel to stop subsequent actions and unfold to State A. If the anti-pinch function is not triggered, the controller monitors the Hall sensor value to determine whether the steering wheel has completed the folding action and reached State B. Otherwise, the controller controls the steering wheel to unfold to State A. If State B is reached, the controller drives the hand motor to complete the command to rotate the steering wheel 90 degrees counterclockwise. The controller monitors the state of position sensor B to determine whether the steering wheel has completed the 90-degree counterclockwise rotation action and reached State C. Otherwise, the controller controls the steering wheel to unfold to State A. If State C is reached, the controller controls the steering wheel to retract.

[0131] When the steering wheel is in the retracted state, the controller receives a steering wheel extension command and controls the steering wheel extension mechanism to extend the steering wheel. The controller uses position sensor A to determine if the steering wheel has extended; otherwise, no action is performed. If the steering wheel is extended, it is in state C. The controller drives the hand-feed motor to rotate the steering wheel clockwise to the middle state B. The controller uses position sensor B to determine if the steering wheel has been rotated clockwise to state B. If not, the controller continues to drive the hand-feed motor to perform the action until N times. If it is not completed, the drive stops and a steering wheel fault is reported. If it is completed, the controller controls the steering wheel to fold and unfold back to state A. The steering wheel uses a Hall sensor to determine if it has been unfolded to state A. If not, the drive continues to perform the action until N times. If it is not completed, the drive stops and a steering wheel fault is reported. If it is completed, the steering wheel extension command is given.

[0132] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0133] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions in other embodiments.

[0134] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0135] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application in any way. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this application without departing from the scope of the technical solution of this application shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this application.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism, characterized in that, The folding mechanism is adapted to fold the steering wheel, the steering wheel including a first sub-spoke and a second sub-spoke; The folding mechanism includes: Drive unit; A translation component, adapted to be driven to translate by the driving device; A flipping component is adapted to be linked with the translation component and to cause at least one of the first sub-spoke and the second sub-spoke to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position.

2. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The folding mechanism also includes a base on which a guide track is formed; The flipping component is adapted to be rotatably connected to the translation component and includes a guide portion. The guide portion is spaced apart from the rotatably connected component and is adapted to move along the guide trajectory to drive the flipping component to rotate. The guide trajectory is constructed as one of a guide groove, a guide surface, or a guide slope.

3. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flipping component includes: A spoke support frame is used to mount the first sub-spoke or the second sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the translation assembly; The roller is rotatably connected to the spoke support frame and is configured as the guide.

4. The folding mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The spoke support frame and the base are provided with mutually cooperating limiting parts to limit the extreme positions of the flipping assembly.

5. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving device includes a driving component and a lead screw driven by the driving component; the translation assembly includes a slider screwed to the outer periphery of the lead screw; the flipping assembly is adapted to be rotatably connected to the slider; The driving device further includes a transmission assembly, which is transmissionally connected between the driving component and the lead screw; The transmission component is constructed as a gear transmission component.

6. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The translation component includes a first translation component and a second translation component, wherein the first translation component and the second translation component are adapted to be driven to translate by the driving device; The flipping assembly includes a first flipping assembly and a second flipping assembly. The first flipping assembly is linked with the first translation assembly to drive the first sub-wheel spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position. The second flipping assembly is linked with the second translation assembly to drive the second sub-wheel spokes to flip between an unfolded position and a retracted position.

7. The folding mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The translation directions of the first translation component and the second translation component are opposite; And / or, when the first flipping component drives the first sub-wheel spokes to flip from the unfolded position to the retracted position, and when the second flipping component drives the second sub-wheel spokes to flip from the unfolded position to the retracted position, the first translation component and the second translation component move away from each other.

8. The folding mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The driving device includes a driving member and a lead screw driven by the driving member; the lead screw includes a first lead screw section and a second lead screw section, the threads of the first lead screw section and the second lead screw section having opposite directions; the first translation component includes a first slider screwed to the outer periphery of the first lead screw section; the second translation component includes a second slider screwed to the outer periphery of the second lead screw section. And / or, the folding mechanism further includes a base on which a first guide track and a second guide track are formed; the first flipping component includes a first guide portion adapted to move along the first guide track to drive the first flipping component to rotate; the second flipping component includes a second guide portion adapted to move along the second guide track to drive the second flipping component to rotate. And / or, the first flipping assembly includes a first spoke support frame for mounting the first sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the first translation assembly; the second flipping assembly includes a second spoke support frame for mounting the second sub-spoke and is adapted to be rotatably connected to the second translation assembly.

9. The folding mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first translation component and the second translation component are symmetrically arranged; the first flip component and the second flip component are symmetrically arranged.

10. A steering wheel, characterized in that, The steering wheel includes a first sub-spoke, a second sub-spoke, and a folding mechanism according to any one of claims 1-9.

11. The steering wheel according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the steering wheel device is in the center position, the first and second sub-wheel spokes are symmetrical.

12. A means of transportation, characterized in that, The vehicle has a steering wheel for controlling it, the steering wheel being the steering wheel of claim 10 or 11.

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