Steering wheel device and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a steering wheel device and traffic tool, and the steering wheel device is through introducing turnover mechanism and telescopic mechanism, and through the cooperation of both, realizes the space optimization of steering wheel device in the storage process. Through turnover mechanism, the hand wheel is turned from the unfolded angle to the storage angle, and the hand wheel is in the inclined or folded state when being stored, instead of being directly horizontally stored, which can significantly reduce the required space opening size in the storage process, avoiding the problem of the need for substantial modification or reserving a larger avoidance space for the instrument desk due to the larger hand wheel in the related art. Through the synergistic effect of turning over and telescoping, it can be ensured that the hand wheel will not jam or interfere during the storage process, and at the same time, it can be quickly unfolded to the unfolded angle when needed, ensuring the convenience and safety of the driver's operation.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In related technologies, 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 these technologies have a storage function, such as being hidden inside the dashboard. However, because the steering wheel's handwheel is relatively large, it requires significant modifications to the dashboard or a large amount of clearance, thus necessitating improvement. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a steering wheel device and a vehicle using the steering wheel device, aiming to reduce the space occupied by the steering wheel device during storage and minimize the structural modifications required for storage.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, according to a first aspect of this application, a steering wheel device is provided, comprising:

[0005] Handwheel;

[0006] A flipping mechanism is used to mount the handwheel and to drive the handwheel to flip between an extended angle and a retracted angle.

[0007] A telescopic mechanism is adapted to be connected to the flipping mechanism and adapted to drive the flipping mechanism to move when the handwheel is flipped to the storage angle, so as to drive the handwheel to move to the predetermined storage position.

[0008] In some alternative embodiments, the handwheel includes a rim with an opening, and when the flipping mechanism drives the handwheel to flip toward the storage angle, the opening is configured as a clearance space.

[0009] In some alternative embodiments, the handwheel includes a first wheel rim segment and two second wheel rim segments connected to both sides of the first wheel rim segment, with the opening formed between the two second wheel rim segments.

[0010] In some alternative implementations, when the steering wheel device is in the center position, the two second wheel rim segments are located on the left and right sides of the wheel rim, respectively.

[0011] In some alternative implementations, when the steering wheel assembly is in the center position, the two second wheel rim segments are left-right symmetrical.

[0012] In some alternative embodiments, the handwheel further includes a rim hub located inside the rim, on which a functional device area is formed;

[0013] The flipping mechanism includes a first driving device and a rotating shaft driven by the first driving device. The handwheel is connected to the rotating shaft through the wheel rim hub. A wire harness groove is formed inside the rotating shaft, which communicates with the functional device area.

[0014] In some alternative implementations, the functional device area includes at least one of a media device area and a switch component area.

[0015] In some alternative embodiments, the first driving device includes a first driving member and a first transmission mechanism, wherein the first transmission mechanism is drivingly connected between the first driving member and the rotating shaft.

[0016] In some alternative embodiments, the first transmission mechanism is configured as a worm gear assembly.

[0017] In some alternative embodiments, the first transmission mechanism includes a first worm gear and a first worm, the first worm gear being coupled to the rotating shaft for transmission, and the first worm meshing with the first worm gear and being transmittedly connected to the first driving member.

[0018] In some alternative embodiments, the first transmission mechanism further includes a second worm gear and a second worm, the second worm meshing with the second worm gear and connected to the power output part of the first drive member, and the second worm gear being coaxially connected to the first worm.

[0019] In some alternative embodiments, the first drive element is configured as a first motor, and the second worm gear is coaxially connected to the output shaft of the first motor.

[0020] In some alternative embodiments, the telescopic mechanism includes:

[0021] Fixed base, suitable for fixed connection with steering column;

[0022] A sliding base is movably connected to the fixed base;

[0023] The flipping mechanism is mounted on the sliding base to move with the sliding base, thereby driving the handwheel to move between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0024] In some alternative embodiments, the fixed base and the sliding base are respectively provided with a sliding guide rail and a sliding guide block that cooperate with each other.

[0025] In some alternative embodiments, the telescopic mechanism further includes a second drive device for driving the sliding base to move;

[0026] The second driving device includes a second driving member and a second transmission mechanism, wherein the second transmission mechanism is drivingly connected between the second driving member and the sliding base.

[0027] In some alternative embodiments, the second transmission mechanism includes:

[0028] A sliding nut is installed on the fixed base;

[0029] A lead screw is threadedly engaged with the sliding nut and connected to the sliding base. The lead screw is adapted to be driven by the second drive member to move the sliding base relative to the fixed base.

[0030] In some alternative embodiments, the second transmission mechanism further includes a third worm gear and a third worm, wherein the third worm gear is coupled to the lead screw for transmission, and the third worm meshes with the third worm gear and is transmittedly connected to the second driving member.

[0031] In some alternative embodiments, the second drive element is configured as a second motor, and the third worm gear is coaxially connected to the output shaft of the second motor.

[0032] In some alternative implementations, when the handwheel is flipped to the storage angle, the plane of the handwheel is parallel to the extension direction of the steering column.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a means of transportation is provided, the means of transportation having a steering wheel device for controlling it, the steering wheel device being the aforementioned steering wheel device.

[0034] In some alternative embodiments, the vehicle has an instrument panel with a storage space formed therein and an opening communicating with the storage space, and the handwheel is adapted to move through the opening to the storage space when rotated to the storage angle.

[0035] In the aforementioned steering wheel device and vehicle, the steering wheel device achieves space optimization during storage by introducing a flipping mechanism and a telescopic mechanism, and through their cooperation. Specifically, the flipping mechanism flips the handwheel from its unfolded angle to its retractable angle, so that the handwheel is tilted or folded when stored, rather than stored horizontally. This significantly reduces the size of the opening required for storage, avoiding the problem in related technologies where a large handwheel necessitates significant modifications to the dashboard or the provision of large clearance spaces. After the handwheel is flipped to the retractable angle, the telescopic mechanism can further drive the flipping mechanism to move the handwheel to the predetermined storage position. This "flip first, then move" method allows the handwheel to enter the storage space along a specific path during storage, further reducing the space requirements of the surrounding structure. Through the synergistic effect of flipping and telescopic, it is ensured that the handwheel will not jam or interfere during storage, and can be quickly unfolded to the unfolded angle when needed, ensuring the convenience and safety of driver operation.

[0036] Because the opening required for storage is small, there is no need for large-scale modifications to the dashboard or other vehicle structures, thereby reducing the overall design and manufacturing costs of the vehicle while improving the utilization rate of the vehicle's interior space.

[0037] Other features and advantages of this application will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the steering wheel device in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a partial structural diagram of the steering wheel assembly from another perspective.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of the steering wheel assembly from another perspective.

[0043] Figure 4 This is a partial structural diagram of the steering wheel assembly from another perspective.

[0044] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the steering wheel rotation process.

[0045] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the steering wheel movement process.

[0046] Figure 7 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the flip-up assembly in the steering wheel device shown.

[0047] Figure 8 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the pivot shaft in the steering wheel assembly.

[0048] Figure label:

[0049] 1. First rim; 2. Second rim; 3. Rim hub; 4. Switch button; 5. Switch button wiring harness; 6. Shaft; 7. First worm gear; 8. First worm; 9. Second worm gear; 10. Wiring harness groove; 11. Support base; 12. Second worm; 13. First motor bracket; 14. First motor; 15. Sliding base; 16. Fixed base; 17. Sliding nut bracket; 18. Sliding nut; 19. Lead screw; 20. Third worm gear; 21. Third worm; 22. 1. Second motor bracket; 23. Second motor; 24. Rolling bearing; 25. Worm gear clamping block; 26. Bearing clamping block; 100. Handwheel; 101. Folding mechanism; 102. Telescopic mechanism; 1000. Steering wheel device; 1101. Bearing limiter; 1102. Worm gear mounting hole; 1103. Bearing mounting groove; 601. Shaft positioning; 602. Wire harness through hole; 603. Bearing limiter; 604. Bearing mounting post; 1501. Sliding guide block; 1601. Guide rail. Detailed Implementation

[0050] 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.

[0051] To achieve the above objectives, participants Figures 1 to 8 As shown, this utility model embodiment provides a steering wheel device 1000.

[0052] The steering wheel device 1000 includes a handwheel 100, a tilting mechanism 101, and a telescopic mechanism 102.

[0053] The flipping mechanism 101 is used to mount the handwheel 100 and to drive the handwheel 100 to flip between an unfolded angle and a retracted angle;

[0054] The telescopic mechanism 102 is adapted to be connected to the flipping mechanism 101, and is adapted to drive the flipping mechanism 101 to move when the handwheel 100 is flipped to the storage angle, so as to drive the handwheel 100 to move to the predetermined storage position.

[0055] The handwheel 100 is the core component for the driver to operate the vehicle steering. It is usually circular, but can also be configured in other shapes as needed. It is used to transmit steering torque to the steering system. In the unfolded state, the handwheel 100 is in the normal use position for the driver to operate; in the stored state, it is stored in space through the flipping mechanism 101 and the telescopic mechanism 102.

[0056] For ease of understanding, the following explanation uses a vehicle steering wheel as an example of the steering wheel device 1000. It is understood that the steering wheel device 1000 can also be a steering wheel device for other vehicles, such as ships, aircraft, or engineering equipment.

[0057] The flipping mechanism 101 is used to mount the handwheel 100 and drive the handwheel 100 to flip between an unfolded angle and a retracted angle. This mechanism typically includes a hinge structure, a rotating shaft, a connecting arm, etc., and enables the handwheel 100 to rotate, for example, to flip the handwheel 100 from the direction where the working plane is located (unfolded angle) to a direction inclined or perpendicular to the working plane (retracted angle). In specific implementations, the difference between the unfolded angle and the retracted angle can be 90°, or it can be set to other angles.

[0058] The telescopic mechanism 102 is connected to the flipping mechanism 101 and is used to move the flipping mechanism 101 along a predetermined path after the handwheel 100 is flipped to the storage angle, thereby moving the handwheel 100 to the predetermined storage position. The telescopic mechanism 102 typically includes a sliding guide rail, a sliding block, a drive motor, or a mechanical transmission device, and is capable of linear movement.

[0059] In specific implementation, the flipping mechanism 101 can be installed on the handwheel 100 through a connecting structure (such as a rotating shaft or a hinge arm), or the handwheel 100 can be directly installed on the rotating part of the flipping mechanism 101, thereby realizing the flipping action of the handwheel 100.

[0060] The telescopic mechanism 102 is connected to the flipping mechanism 101 via a connector (such as a sliding guide rail or a connecting arm). When the handwheel 100 is flipped to the storage angle, the telescopic mechanism 102 is activated, which drives the flipping mechanism 101 to move as a whole, thereby driving the handwheel 100 to enter the predetermined storage position along a specific path.

[0061] When the handwheel 100 of the steering wheel device 1000 needs to be stored, the flipping mechanism 101 first flips the handwheel 100 from the unfolded angle to the storage angle. Then, the telescopic mechanism 102 drives the flipping mechanism 101 to move, sending the handwheel 100 into the storage space. When it is needed, the telescopic mechanism 102 moves in the opposite direction, driving the flipping mechanism 101 to move the handwheel 100 out of the storage space. The flipping mechanism 101 then flips it back to the unfolded angle, completing the unfolding operation.

[0062] By flipping the handwheel 100 from the working plane direction to the inclined or vertical direction through the flipping mechanism 101, the required space opening size during storage is significantly reduced, avoiding the problem of needing to make major modifications to the dashboard or reserve a large clearance space due to the large size of the handwheel 100 in the traditional solution.

[0063] After the handwheel 100 is rotated to the storage angle, the telescopic mechanism 102 drives the flipping mechanism 101 to move along a specific path, so that the handwheel 100 enters the predetermined storage position, thereby further reducing the space requirements of the surrounding structure.

[0064] Through the synergistic effect of "flipping first, then moving", the handwheel 100 is ensured to not get stuck or interfered during storage, and can be quickly unfolded to the unfolded angle when needed, ensuring the convenience and safety of the driver's operation.

[0065] Because the opening required for storage is small, there is no need for large-scale modifications to the dashboard or other vehicle structures, thereby reducing the overall design and manufacturing costs of the vehicle and improving the utilization rate of the vehicle's interior space. For example, it can be applied to a variety of vehicle models and driving scenarios.

[0066] In some alternative embodiments, the handwheel 100 includes a rim with an opening, and when the flipping mechanism 101 drives the handwheel 100 to flip toward the storage angle, the opening is configured as a clearance space.

[0067] During the process of rotating the handwheel 100 to the storage angle, the opening on the rim serves as a clearance space, providing sufficient room for the rotating mechanism 101, the telescopic mechanism 102, or their moving parts, thus preventing jamming, mechanical resistance, or damage caused by structural interference during the rotation process. This design effectively improves the smoothness and reliability of the rotation process.

[0068] The opening allows the handwheel 100 to move along a smoother path when it is turned, reducing the obstruction of the turning action by the overall structure of the wheel rim, thereby improving the turning efficiency, reducing mechanical wear, and extending the service life of the device.

[0069] For example, in some optional embodiments, the handwheel 100 includes a first rim segment 1 and two second rim segments 2 connected to both sides of the first rim segment 1, with the opening formed between the two second rim segments 2. In some optional embodiments, when the steering wheel device 1000 is in the center position, the two second rim segments 2 are located on the left and right sides of the rim, respectively. In a specific implementation, when the steering wheel device 1000 is in the center position, the two second rim segments 2 are symmetrical from left to right.

[0070] When the steering wheel device 1000 is in the center position, the driver usually places both hands on the left and right sides of the steering wheel for normal driving operations. By setting the opening between the two second wheel flange segments 2, and with the two second wheel flange segments 2 symmetrically distributed on the left and right sides of the wheel flange, the opening area naturally avoids the driver's grip position, thereby preventing interference between the opening area and the driver's hands during flipping or extension, and improving the safety and comfort of operation.

[0071] The opening not only provides the necessary space for the movement of the flipping mechanism 101 or the telescopic mechanism 102, but also avoids the weakening of structural strength caused by the opening by placing the opening in the non-grip area, thereby maintaining the structural integrity and rigidity of the handwheel 100 while ensuring functionality.

[0072] When the steering wheel device 1000 is flipped or extended, since the opening area is located in the non-grip area, the driver does not need to adjust the position of his hands to complete the operation of storing or unfolding the steering wheel, which improves the ease of use and the naturalness of human-computer interaction.

[0073] In some alternative embodiments, the handwheel 100 further includes a rim hub 3 located inside the rim, and a functional device area is formed on the rim hub 3;

[0074] The flipping mechanism 101 includes a first driving device and a rotating shaft 6 driven by the first driving device. The handwheel 100 is connected to the rotating shaft 6 through the wheel hub 3. A wire harness groove 10 communicating with the functional device area is formed in the rotating shaft 6.

[0075] Since the wiring harness is embedded inside the rotating shaft 6, it will not be affected by the possible interference of the flipping mechanism 101 during the flipping process. Therefore, the connection stability between the flipping mechanism 101 and the handwheel 100 is ensured, and the handwheel 100 is reliably switched between the unfolded and retracted states.

[0076] The functional component area is located inside the wheel rim hub 3, avoiding the interference, wear, or obstruction problems that may occur when electronic components are directly placed on the wheel rim surface or outside, thus preserving the integrity and functionality of the functional component area. The wiring harness is arranged inside the rotating shaft 6 and connected to the functional component area on the wheel rim hub 3 through the wiring harness groove 10, avoiding exposed wiring harnesses or wiring on the wheel rim surface, thereby improving the protection and aesthetics of the wiring harness, while reducing the risk of interference during the rotation process.

[0077] In some alternative implementations, the functional device area includes at least one of a media device area and a switch component area.

[0078] For example, the functional components area may include a media device area, meaning the steering wheel unit 1000 may integrate media control functions such as audio, video, and navigation. For instance, the media device area may integrate a touchscreen, voice control, and multimedia interfaces. This design not only enhances driving convenience but also improves the vehicle's intelligence level, allowing the driver to quickly access media functions when needed.

[0079] The functional components area may also include a switch assembly area, meaning the steering wheel unit 1000 can integrate various control switches, such as light control, window control, air conditioning control, and voice control. This switch assembly area allows for multi-functional integration, enhancing the convenience and intuitiveness of operation.

[0080] In some alternative embodiments, the first driving device includes a first driving member and a first transmission mechanism, wherein the first transmission mechanism is drivingly connected between the first driving member and the rotating shaft 6.

[0081] By introducing a first transmission mechanism, a speed reduction transmission between the first driving component and the rotating shaft 6 can be achieved, thereby effectively reducing the impact and wear that may occur when the driving component directly drives the rotating shaft 6, and improving the smoothness and reliability of the overall transmission system. The first transmission mechanism can be a gear drive, belt drive, chain drive, or worm gear drive, etc., which can adjust the speed or torque output of the driving component according to actual needs to meet the matching requirements of the rotating shaft 6 for power input, and improve the overall adaptability and control accuracy of the system.

[0082] For example, in some alternative embodiments, the first transmission mechanism is configured as a worm gear assembly.

[0083] Specifically, in some optional embodiments, the first transmission mechanism includes a first worm gear 7 and a first worm 8, the first worm gear 7 being driven by the rotating shaft 6, and the first worm 8 meshing with the first worm gear 7 and being connected to the first driving member in a transmission connection.

[0084] Worm gear drives have a significant reduction ratio characteristic. By driving the worm wheel to rotate, the high-speed rotation of the first driving component can be converted into low-speed, high-torque output of the shaft 6, thus meeting the power output characteristics requirements of the shaft 6. This makes it particularly suitable for scenarios requiring high torque and low speed. Furthermore, the meshing between the worm and worm wheel offers high transmission accuracy and self-locking properties. With a properly designed helix angle, reverse rotation of the worm wheel can be prevented, thereby improving the stability of the transmission system and reducing malfunctions caused by vibration or impact.

[0085] Worm gear drives have a compact structure and can be arranged vertically or obliquely, making them suitable for space-constrained scenarios. This optimizes the overall layout, reduces interference with other components, and improves space utilization.

[0086] In some alternative embodiments, the first transmission mechanism further includes a second worm gear 9 and a second worm 12, wherein the second worm 12 meshes with the second worm gear 9 and is connected to the power output part of the first drive member, and the second worm gear 9 is coaxially connected with the first worm 8.

[0087] By setting a two-stage worm gear transmission mechanism, the reduction ratio and torque output capability can be further improved: through the two-stage worm gear transmission, a higher reduction ratio can be achieved, thereby further converting the high-speed rotation of the first driving component into a lower speed and a greater output torque, meeting the high torque and low speed requirements of the 6th shaft pair, and is especially suitable for scenarios requiring high torque output.

[0088] In some alternative embodiments, the first drive element is configured as a first motor 14, and the second worm gear 12 is coaxially connected to the output shaft of the first motor 14.

[0089] In some alternative embodiments, the telescopic mechanism 102 includes:

[0090] Fixed base 16, suitable for fixed connection with steering column;

[0091] The sliding base 15 is movably connected to the fixed base 16;

[0092] The flipping mechanism is mounted on the sliding base 15 to move with the sliding base 15, thereby driving the handwheel 100 to move between an extended position and a retracted position.

[0093] The sliding base 15 and the fixed base 16 are connected by a movable connection, which enables the flipping mechanism to switch the handwheel 100 between the extended position and the retracted position, thereby realizing the retractable design of the handwheel 100. When it is not in use, it can be stored away to save space and improve the compactness and practicality of the vehicle's interior layout.

[0094] In some alternative embodiments, the fixed base 16 and the sliding base 15 are respectively provided with a sliding guide rail 1601 and a sliding guide block 1501 that cooperate with each other.

[0095] The cooperation between the sliding guide rail 1601 and the sliding guide block 1501 ensures that the sliding base 15 slides smoothly on the fixed base 16 in a predetermined direction, reducing shaking, offset or jamming during the sliding process, thereby improving the stability and accuracy of the overall movement.

[0096] The cooperation between the sliding guide rail 1601 and the sliding guide block 1501 can provide bidirectional or multidirectional guidance, ensuring that the sliding base 15 moves only in a predetermined direction during movement, avoiding unexpected displacement caused by external forces or vibrations, thereby improving the guiding performance and reliability of the system.

[0097] In some alternative embodiments, the telescopic mechanism 102 further includes a second driving device for driving the sliding base 15 to move; the second driving device includes a second driving member and a second transmission mechanism, the second transmission mechanism being tractively connected between the second driving member and the sliding base 15.

[0098] For example, in some alternative embodiments, the second transmission mechanism includes:

[0099] A sliding nut 18 is installed on the fixed base 16;

[0100] The lead screw 19 is threadedly engaged with the sliding nut 18 and connected to the sliding base 15. The lead screw 19 is adapted to be driven by the second drive member to move the sliding base 15 relative to the fixed base 16.

[0101] Achieving precise linear motion control: Through the threaded engagement of the lead screw 19 and the sliding nut 18, the rotational motion of the second drive component can be converted into the linear movement of the sliding base 15, thereby achieving high-precision control of the position of the sliding base 15, which is suitable for scenarios with high requirements for motion accuracy.

[0102] The engagement between the lead screw 19 and the sliding nut 18 provides high transmission efficiency and good self-locking properties. When the drive unit stops working, the sliding base 15 can remain in its current position, avoiding unexpected displacement caused by external forces or vibrations, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the system.

[0103] In addition, by selecting lead screws 19 with different leads, the moving speed and stroke of the sliding base 15 can be flexibly adjusted to meet the motion requirements of different application scenarios and improve the adaptability and expandability of the system.

[0104] In some optional embodiments, the second transmission mechanism further includes a third worm gear 20 and a third worm 21, wherein the third worm gear 20 is coupled to the lead screw 19 for transmission, and the third worm 21 meshes with the third worm gear 20 and is transmittedly connected to the second driving member. For example, in some optional embodiments, the second driving member is configured as a second motor 23, and the third worm 21 is coaxially connected to the output shaft of the second motor 23.

[0105] Through the meshing transmission between the third worm gear 20 and the third worm 21, the high-speed rotation of the second motor 23 can be converted into a low-speed, high-torque output of the lead screw 19, thereby meeting the high torque and low-speed requirements of the lead screw 19 driving the sliding base 15. The meshing between the worm and the worm gear has a self-locking characteristic, which, with proper design, can effectively prevent the reverse rotation of the lead screw 19, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the transmission system, and is especially suitable for scenarios where it is necessary to prevent the sliding base 15 from moving unexpectedly.

[0106] In some alternative embodiments, when the handwheel 100 is flipped to the storage angle, the plane on which the handwheel 100 is located is parallel to the extension direction of the steering column.

[0107] When the handwheel 100 is rotated to the storage angle, its plane is parallel to the extension direction of the steering column, so that the handwheel 100 can fit in line with the axis of the steering column when stored, thereby reducing the lateral space occupied and improving the utilization rate of the vehicle's interior space, which is especially suitable for vehicle designs with limited space.

[0108] When folded up, the handwheel 100 is parallel to the extension direction of the steering column, so that the handwheel 100 does not protrude from the vehicle interior, avoiding operational interference or collision risks caused by the exposed handwheel 100 during driving, thereby improving driving safety and operating comfort.

[0109] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a means of transportation is provided, the means of transportation having a steering wheel device 1000 for controlling thereon, the steering wheel device 1000 being the aforementioned steering wheel device 1000.

[0110] In some alternative embodiments, the vehicle has an instrument panel with a storage space formed therein and an opening communicating with the storage space, and the handwheel 100 is adapted to move through the opening to the storage space when flipped to the storage angle.

[0111] Based on the aforementioned concept, the handwheel 100 enters the storage space through a smaller opening after being rotated to the storage angle. This eliminates the need for a large opening on the dashboard surface, thereby reducing modifications to the external structure of the dashboard, saving internal and external space, and improving overall space utilization.

[0112] In some alternative embodiments, the steering wheel device 1000 may be configured as a drive-by-wire steering wheel.

[0113] 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.

[0114] The aforementioned means of transportation can be any device capable of carrying people or being unmanned and controlled by the steering wheel device 1000, 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] like Figures 1 to 8 As shown, the steering wheel device of this application aims to solve the problem that, during the storage process of existing steering wheels after folding, when the extension distance of the column is limited, the wheel rim of the steering wheel cannot be completely hidden in the dashboard after folding, which cannot meet the vehicle's requirements for storing and hiding the steering wheel and column.

[0117] The steering wheel assembly includes a handwheel 100, a folding mechanism 101, a telescopic mechanism 102, and a switch / button wiring harness 5. The handwheel 100 includes a first rim 1, a second rim 2, and a rim hub 3. An opening is provided between the second rims 2 to prevent interference during the folding process.

[0118] The wheel hub 3 is connected to the folding mechanism 101. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the folding mechanism 101 includes a rim shaft 6, a first worm gear 7, a first worm 8, a second worm gear 9, a wire harness groove 10, a support base 11, a second worm 12, a first motor bracket 13, a first motor 14, a rolling bearing 24, a worm pressure block 25, and a bearing pressure block 26.

[0119] In related technologies, the folding pivot of the steering wheel is located at the lower end of the two spoke frames of the steering wheel rim. During the rotation and folding process, the first rim requires a large space in the Z-direction, and a large instrument panel opening is required when storing the steering wheel. In this application, the rim pivot 6 passes through the rim hub 3, which solves the problem of minimizing the space occupied during the steering wheel flipping process and saving instrument panel opening space.

[0120] The rim shaft 6 has a shaft positioning 601, which is fixedly installed in conjunction with the positioning groove structure of the rim hub 3, so as to realize the handwheel 100 folding and rotating along the axial direction of the rim shaft 6. The rim shaft 6 has a bearing limiter 603 and a bearing mounting post 604. The bearing 24 is installed at one of the bearing limiters 603 and at one of the bearing mounting posts 604.

[0121] The first worm gear 7 is installed at the rim shaft 6, and the mating part is designed with a groove for positioning (the groove shape is not limited to triangle, square, etc.). The rim shaft 6 is installed on the support base 11. The support base 11 has a bearing limit 1101 to achieve Y-direction limiting and a bearing mounting groove 1103 to achieve X-direction limiting. The rolling bearing 24 installed on the rim shaft 6 corresponds to the bearing limit 1101 and the bearing mounting groove 1103 on the support base 11. The bearing pressure block 26 is installed at the bearing mounting groove 1103 to achieve Z-direction limiting of the bearing.

[0122] The first worm gear 7 meshes with the first worm 8 and their axes are perpendicular. The first worm 8 and the second worm gear 9 are coaxially designed to achieve the same level of speed regulation.

[0123] The support base 11 is provided with a worm gear mounting hole 1102. The second worm gear 9 is mounted on the worm mounting hole 1102 to achieve X and Z-axis limiting. The first motor bracket 13 is mounted on the support base 11, and the first motor 14 is mounted on the first motor bracket 13. The second worm 12 is coaxially mounted and engaged with the output shaft of the first motor 14. The second worm 12 meshes with the second worm gear 9, and their axial directions are perpendicular. The worm pressure block 25 is mounted on the first motor bracket 13. The worm pressure block 25 has a worm limiting hole 2501, which is coaxially engaged with the second worm 8 to achieve Y-axis limiting. The worm limiting hole 2501, the worm gear mounting hole 1102, the first worm 8, and the second worm gear 9 are coaxially engaged to ensure the rotational stability of the folding mechanism.

[0124] The telescopic mechanism 102 includes a sliding base 15, a fixed base 16, a sliding nut bracket 17, a sliding nut 18, a lead screw 19, a third worm gear 20, a third worm 21, a second motor bracket 22, and a second motor 23. The sliding base 15 is fixedly installed with the aforementioned support base 11, enabling the folding mechanism 101 and the handwheel 100 to telescopically slide along the column axis.

[0125] The sliding base 15 is designed with a sliding guide block 1501, and the fixed base 16 is designed with a guide rail 1601. The sliding guide block 1501 and the guide rail 1601 are installed together and designed with a sliding structure (not limited to slider rail groove structure, cylindrical and groove structure) to realize the reciprocating sliding of the telescopic mechanism 102 in the Z direction.

[0126] The sliding nut bracket 17 is mounted on the fixed base 16, and the sliding nut 18 is mounted on the sliding nut bracket 17 (not limited to snap-fit ​​connection, screw connection, etc.). One end of the lead screw 19 engages with the sliding nut 18 and is coaxially mounted. One end of the lead screw 19 is coaxially mounted with the third worm gear 20. The second motor bracket is mounted on the fixed base 16, the second motor 23 is mounted on the second motor bracket 22, and the third worm gear 21 is coaxially mounted with the output end of the second motor, and the third worm gear 21 engages with the third worm gear 20.

[0127] This application retains the functionality of physical switch buttons and ensures that the wiring harness transmits relevant electrical signals during the steering wheel folding process by routing the wiring inside the pivot shaft, making it convenient for users.

[0128] The handwheel 100 includes a switch button 4, a switch button wiring harness 5, and a rim hub 3. The rim shaft 6 has a wiring harness through-hole 602 and a wiring harness groove 10, with the groove communicating with the through-hole 602. The switch button 4 is mounted on the rim hub 3. One end of the switch button wiring harness 5 is connected to the inner plate of the switch button 4, and the other end passes through the wiring harness through-hole 602 on the rim shaft 6 to the wiring harness groove 10, connecting to the controller. During folding, the switch button wiring harness 5 will not be subjected to tensile stress or deformation within the wiring harness through-hole 602 and the wiring harness groove 10.

[0129] In practical implementation, when a user needs to fold and store the steering wheel, the first motor 14 receives a folding signal, and the Hall sensor of the first motor 14 records the position as the starting point of the folding. The first motor 14 drives the second worm gear 12, which meshes with the second worm wheel 9. The second worm wheel 9 is coaxial with the first worm gear 8, achieving the same speed regulation. The first worm gear 8 drives the first worm wheel 7, which is tightly fitted with the wheel rim shaft 6, causing the wheel rim shaft 6 to rotate within the ball bearing 24. Both ends of the wheel rim shaft 6 are fixedly installed to the steering wheel rim hub 3. The wheel rim shaft 6 drives the handwheel 100 to fold and rotate. The direction is set with the column axis as the center, rotating from the first wheel rim 1 to the second wheel rim 2 for folding, and rotating from the second wheel rim 2 to the first wheel rim 1 for unfolding. The folding / unfolding angle is set to 90° (not limited to 90°, the folding / unfolding angle is set according to the instrument panel opening). When the handwheel 100 is folded 90°, the Hall sensor of the first motor 14 records the position as the end position of the folding. At this time, the handwheel 100 is self-locked and limited by the first worm gear 8 and the first worm wheel 7.

[0130] When the controller system receives the folding endpoint position from the Hall sensor of the first motor 14, the second motor 14 receives the extension / retraction signal, and the Hall sensor of the second motor 14 records the position as the extension / retraction starting position. The second motor drives the third worm gear 21, which meshes with the third worm wheel 20. One end of the lead screw 19 is coaxially mounted with the third worm wheel 20, driving the lead screw 19. Under the drive of the lead screw 19, the sliding nut 18 drives the sliding nut bracket 17 and the sliding base 15 (the sliding guide block 1501) to slide on the fixed base 16 (the guide rail 1601), driving the entire folding mechanism 102 and the handwheel 100 to slide. The direction setting is based on the column axis. The sliding base 15 (driving the handwheel 100) slides downwards for storage (the storage distance is set according to the space inside the front compartment). When the handwheel 100 slides a distance X, the Hall sensor of the second motor 14 records the position as the extension / retraction endpoint position. The above description covers the entire process of the handwheel 100 folding, extending, and storing; the reverse describes the unfolding process, which will not be repeated here.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] The embodiments, implementation methods, and related technical features of this application can be combined and substituted for each other without conflict.

[0134] 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 steering wheel device, characterized in that, include: Handwheel; A flipping mechanism is used to mount the handwheel and to drive the handwheel to flip between an extended angle and a retracted angle. A telescopic mechanism is adapted to be connected to the flipping mechanism and adapted to drive the flipping mechanism to move when the handwheel is flipped to the storage angle, so as to drive the handwheel to move to the predetermined storage position.

2. The steering wheel device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The handwheel includes a rim with an opening. When the flipping mechanism drives the handwheel to flip toward the storage angle, the opening is configured as a clearance space.

3. The steering wheel device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The handwheel includes a first wheel rim segment and two second wheel rim segments connected to both sides of the first wheel rim segment, with the opening formed between the two second wheel rim segments; When the steering wheel device is in the center position, the two second wheel flange segments are located on the left and right sides of the wheel flange, respectively; and / or, when the steering wheel device is in the center position, the two second wheel flange segments are symmetrical.

4. The steering wheel device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The handwheel also includes a rim hub located inside the rim, and a functional device area is formed on the rim hub; The flipping mechanism includes a first driving device and a rotating shaft driven by the first driving device. The handwheel is connected to the rotating shaft through the wheel rim hub. A wire harness groove is formed inside the rotating shaft, which communicates with the functional device area. The functional device area includes at least one of the media device area and the switch component area.

5. The steering wheel device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first driving device includes a first driving member and a first transmission mechanism, wherein the first transmission mechanism is drivingly connected between the first driving member and the rotating shaft; The first transmission mechanism is constructed as a worm gear assembly.

6. The steering wheel device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first transmission mechanism includes a first worm wheel and a first worm. The first worm wheel is coupled to the rotating shaft for transmission, and the first worm meshes with the first worm wheel and is connected to the first driving component for transmission. The first transmission mechanism further includes a second worm gear and a second worm, the second worm meshes with the second worm gear and is connected to the power output part of the first drive member, and the second worm gear is coaxially connected with the first worm. The first driving component is constructed as a first motor, and the second worm gear is coaxially connected to the output shaft of the first motor.

7. The steering wheel device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The telescopic mechanism includes: Fixed base, suitable for fixed connection with steering column; A sliding base is movably connected to the fixed base; The flipping mechanism is mounted on the sliding base to move with the sliding base, thereby driving the handwheel to move between an extended position and a retracted position; The fixed base and the sliding base are respectively provided with a sliding guide rail and a sliding guide block that cooperate with each other.

8. The steering wheel device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The telescopic mechanism also includes a second driving device for driving the sliding base to move; The second driving device includes a second driving member and a second transmission mechanism, wherein the second transmission mechanism is drivingly connected between the second driving member and the sliding base; The second transmission mechanism includes: A sliding nut is installed on the fixed base; A lead screw is threadedly engaged with the sliding nut and connected to the sliding base. The lead screw is adapted to be driven by the second drive member to move the sliding base relative to the fixed base.

9. The steering wheel device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second transmission mechanism further includes a third worm gear and a third worm, wherein the third worm gear is coupled to the lead screw for transmission, and the third worm meshes with the third worm gear and is connected to the second driving component for transmission. The second driving component is constructed as a second motor, and the third worm gear is coaxially connected to the output shaft of the second motor.

10. The steering wheel device according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the handwheel is rotated to the storage angle, the plane on which the handwheel is located is parallel to the extension direction of the steering column.

11. A means of transportation, characterized in that, The vehicle has a steering wheel device for controlling it, the steering wheel device being any one of claims 1-10.

12. The means of transport according to claim 11, characterized in that, The vehicle has an instrument panel with a storage space and an opening communicating with the storage space. The handwheel is adapted to move through the opening to the storage space when rotated to the storage angle.

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