Steering device for vehicles

Abstract

Steering device for a vehicle which features: a steering wheel (100, 200, 300) connected to an upper steering shaft (127), which has a steering wheel (100, 200, 300): a case (207, 303) with a first (203, 401) and a second opening (205, 401'), a first (209, 305) and a second (211, 305') partial wheel, which are configured to be movable in order to be inserted into the housing through the first (203, 401) and the second (205, 401') opening, or to protrude from it, and a wheel actuator (213, 403) arranged in the housing (207) and associated with the first (209, 305) and second (211, 305') partial wheel to provide a driving force; and a steering column (101) which has: an inner cover shaft (125) coupled to the upper steering shaft (127) which is connected to the steering wheel (100, 200, 300), an inner housing (121) coupled to the inner cover shaft (125) and having a guide projection (122) formed on an outer surface of the inner housing (121), a control housing (129) with a guide slot formed to accommodate the guide projection (122) of the inner housing (121), and a cover housing (123) which is attached to the vehicle, wherein the control housing (129) is rotatably arranged in the cover housing (123).

Description

BACKGROUND 1. TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a steering device for a vehicle. More precisely, various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a steering device for a vehicle that enables a driver to utilize the space around the driver's seat to a greater extent, since a steering column can be retracted into and extended from a dashboard according to the driver's needs, and movable partial wheels of the steering wheel can be inserted into and extended from the steering wheel in a driver-drive mode and a self-drive mode. 2. DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ART

[0002] In general, an automobile steering device includes a steering wheel through which an operation is entered by a driver, and a steering column which is connected to the steering wheel and attached to the body of a vehicle, and a telescopic device or a tilting device, etc., are added for the convenience of a driver.

[0003] The telescopic device is a device that allows a steering column to be axially extended and retracted, and a tilting device is a device for adjusting the angle of a steering column.

[0004] However, with such automotive steering systems, the steering wheel can only be moved to optimize driving according to the driver's body shape. This has a significant limitation: drivers cannot make greater use of the space around the driver's seat when not driving. In particular, with the recent increase in the research and development of self-driving vehicles, there is a demand for a structure that can extend and retract a steering column and a steering wheel that allows for more extensive use of the space around the driver's seat in self-driving mode. Therefore, the development of such technology is essential.

[0005] DE 38 86 900 T2 discloses a height-adjustable and telescopically displaceable steering column assembly for a motor vehicle. The adjustment device for the steering column assembly comprises a plurality of balls that are fixedly mounted on the outer surface of a ring element, which is fixedly mounted on a steering shaft to which a steering wheel is attached. The balls are arranged along an imaginary helical line on the outer surface of the ring element. The ring element with the balls is inserted into a sleeve, which has a helical groove on its inner outer surface, and the balls are movably guided in this helical groove. The sleeve is axially connected to a movable holder. The ring element is driven by an electric motor via a gear mechanism, thereby displacing the steering shaft axially relative to the sleeve.A tilting mechanism for the steering column assembly comprises a tilting screw that movably connects the movable bracket to a fixed bracket attached to the vehicle body. The tilting screw is screwed into a nut housing, which is mounted to prevent rotation relative to the fixed bracket. This nut housing is driven by an electric motor via a gearbox, causing the tilting screw to be axially displaced and thus raising the movable bracket. The nut housing has a threaded hole in which a seat element is inserted in such a way that it is in contact with the outer surface of the tilting screw, thereby eliminating any play between the tilting screw and the nut housing.

[0006] CN 1 06 627 724 A discloses a folding steering wheel mechanism. This mechanism comprises a steering wheel, a lifting mechanism, and a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is connected to the steering wheel via the lifting mechanism and consists of two motors: a lifting motor, responsible for the axial extension and retraction of the steering wheel, and a rotary motor, which enables the rotary extension and retraction of the steering wheel. In operation, the lifting motor ensures that the steering wheel can be extended axially outwards or retracted axially. Simultaneously, the rotary motor drives the steering wheel so that it can be unfolded or folded by a rotary motion. This design allows the entire steering wheel mechanism to retract completely into the dashboard when the automatic driving mode is activated, thus freeing up the driver's cab.When the vehicle switches to manual driving mode, the steering wheel is extended and unfolded, allowing manual control by the driver.

[0007] JP 2003 - 272 487 A discloses an electrical component of the combined control type with an actuating shaft that can be extended and retracted. The aim is to provide such a component in which the length of the actuating shaft projection can be easily adjusted without requiring manual extension and retraction. This is intended to enable high general suitability and easy integration into various applications. The component comprises a cylindrical outer shaft that is rotatably and axially displaceably mounted in a housing. An inner shaft is arranged concentrically within this outer shaft and is positively connected to the inside of the outer shaft via a splined connection. An actuator section is provided on the inner shaft, which is coupled to a rotor part of an encoder and also serves to actuate a push button.A drive element is coupled to the outer shaft in such a way that it moves axially along with it. This drive element is in turn connected to a drive mechanism, which could be, for example, a rotating cam element that transmits the driving force of a motor to the drive element. This arrangement allows the outer shaft, which acts as the actuating shaft, to automatically extend and retract axially. SUMMARY

[0008] The object of the present invention is to enable expanded use of the space around a driver's seat in a self-driving mode.

[0009] This problem is solved by a steering device having the features of claim 1. Possible embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0010] Against this background, one aspect of the present disclosure is the specification of a steering device for a vehicle. According to the steering device, a steering column projects from an instrument panel as required by the driver, and a steering wheel is positioned so that it can be operated by the driver, or the steering column is inserted into the instrument panel and the steering wheel is positioned close to the instrument panel. Furthermore, movable partial wheels of a steering wheel project from the steering wheel in a driver-drive mode, enabling a driver to steer a vehicle using the movable partial wheels. Additionally, movable partial wheels are incorporated into a steering wheel in a self-driving mode, allowing a driver to utilize the space around the driver's seat more extensively.

[0011] Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to the aspect described above, and other, unmentioned aspects of the present disclosure are clearly evident to the person skilled in the art from the following description.

[0012] In view of the aspect described above, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a steering device for a vehicle, which includes: a steering wheel comprising a housing connected to an upper steering shaft of the vehicle and having a first opening and a second opening on both sides, a first movable partial wheel and a second movable partial wheel configured to be inserted into and protrude from the housing through the first opening and the second opening, and a wheel actuator arranged in the housing and combined with the first movable partial wheel and the second movable partial wheel to provide a driving force;and a steering column comprising an inner cover shaft with one end coupled to an end of an upper steering shaft, an inner housing coupled to an end of the inner cover shaft and having a guide projection on its outer side, a control housing with a guide hole formed axially to receive the guide projection, and a cover housing into which the control housing is rotatably inserted and which is attached to a body of the vehicle.

[0013] According to these embodiments, depending on the driver's needs, a steering column protrudes from the dashboard and a steering wheel is positioned for operation by the driver, or the steering column is integrated into the dashboard and the steering wheel is positioned close to it. Furthermore, in a driver-operated driving mode, movable sections of the steering wheel protrude from the steering wheel, allowing the driver to steer the vehicle using these movable sections. Additionally, in a self-driving mode, movable sections are integrated into the steering wheel, enabling the driver to utilize more of the space around the driver's seat. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The aforementioned and other aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which is given in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 and Fig. Two perspective views are shown, depicting an area of ​​a steering column according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 and Fig. Four cross-sectional views are shown, illustrating examples of extending and contracting a steering column according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 5 is a diagram that schematically shows the configuration of a steering column according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 are perspective views showing an example in which movable partial wheels extend out of a housing of a steering wheel, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 8 and Fig. Figure 9 are perspective views showing an example in which movable partial wheels retract into a housing of a steering wheel according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 are perspective views that show an operational example for a wheel actuator and the in Fig. The 6 movable partial wheels shown are shown; Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 are perspective views that show an operational example for a wheel actuator and the in Fig. The 8 movable partial wheels shown are shown; Fig. Figure 14 is a view showing an example in which a steering wheel protrudes from a cockpit module according to various embodiments; Fig. Figure 15 is a view showing an example in which a steering wheel is introduced into a cockpit module according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. Figure 16 is a view showing a state in which a movable partial wheel is received in a housing of a steering wheel according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 17 is a stretched perspective view of Fig. 16; Fig. Figure 18 shows the positions of a wheel drive gear and a movable partial wheel that is in Fig. 16 is shown; Fig. Figure 19 is a view showing the state in which a movable partial wheel protrudes from a housing of a steering wheel according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 20 is a stretched perspective view of Fig. 18; Fig. 21 is a view showing the positions of a wheel drive gearbox and a [unclear] Fig. 19 shown movable partial wheel; Fig. 22 is a view showing the state of a steering wheel in self-driving mode; and Fig. 23 is a view that shows the state of a steering wheel in a manual drive mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTIVE EXAMPLES

[0015] The following sections describe aspects of the present disclosure in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. When adding reference numerals to elements in each drawing, the same elements are designated by the same reference numerals, if possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in the following description of the present disclosure, a detailed description of functions and configurations contained herein is omitted if such a description could impair the clarity of the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0016] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), or the like may be used here when describing components of the present disclosure. These terms are used merely to distinguish one structural element from other structural elements, and a property, order, sequence, and the like of a corresponding structural element are not limited by the term. It should be noted that if the description states that one component is "connected," "coupled," or "united" with another component, a third component may be "connected," "coupled," and "united" between the first and second components, even though the first component may be directly connected, coupled, or united with the second component.

[0017] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 23, a steering device for a vehicle according to illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure may include a steering wheel and a steering column.

[0018] According to first the Fig. 1 to 5 a steering column 110 can include: an inner cover shaft 125 with one end coupled to one end of an upper steering shaft 127; an inner housing 121 coupled to one end of the inner cover shaft 125 and having a guide projection 122 on the outer side of the inner housing 121; a control housing 129 with a spiral guide hole or slot 128 formed axially to receive the guide projection 122; and a cover housing 123 into which the control housing 129 is rotatably inserted and which can be installed or attached to any suitable part of the vehicle body.

[0019] In the description of embodiments of the present disclosure, when the direction for the steering column 110 is described, the direction is towards the steering wheel 100, that is, the extraction direction of the steering column 110 is towards one end, and the insertion direction of the steering column 110, which is the opposite direction, is towards the other end.

[0020] The steering column 110 can have a structure that is axially offset, while being axially contractible or extendable.

[0021] For example, the steering column 110 can be axially compressed into the cover housing 123, from the steering wheel 100 with respect to the cover housing 123 which is attached to the vehicle body, so that the steering wheel 100 comes close to or protrudes axially from a dashboard 150 of the vehicle.

[0022] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the upper steering shaft 127 can slide axially into or out of a lower steering shaft 131, and the inner cover housing 121, which is coupled or combined with the upper steering shaft 127, slides over or from (or into or out of) an outer cover shaft 115.

[0023] The inner housing 121, which is coupled or combined with the inner cover shaft 125, can be axially movable, for example in such a way that the inner housing 212 can slide into or out of the control housing 129.

[0024] One end of the inner cover shaft 125 can be coupled to one end of the upper steering shaft 127. Therefore, when the inner cover shaft 125 is axially inserted into or removed from the lower steering shaft 131, the inner cover shaft 125 can move the upper steering shaft 127 into or out of the lower steering shaft 131.

[0025] The inner housing 121 can be coupled to one end of the inner cover shaft 125 and can have the guide projection 122 on its outer side. The control housing 129 has the helical guide hole 128, which is axially formed to receive the guide projection 122 of the inner housing 121. When the control housing 129 is rotated, the inner housing 121 can move in the axial direction or slide axially.

[0026] The cover housing 123, attached to the body 142 of a vehicle, can support the rotation of the control housing 129, which is rotatably inserted into the cover housing 123, and a drive motor 140, which can rotate the control housing 129, is coupled to the other end of the cover housing 123.

[0027] A first gear 130 can be arranged at the other end of the control housing 129 and rotatably connected to the control housing 129. A second gear 141 can be coupled to or formed on the shaft of the drive motor 140 and can be rotatably connected to the first gear 130 of the control housing 129 to rotate the first gear 130. When the control housing 129 is rotated in a first direction or a second direction, depending on the direction of rotation of the drive motor 140, the inner housing 121, the inner cover shaft 125, and the upper steering shaft 127 slide accordingly inwards or outwards.

[0028] For example, the first gear 130 of the control housing 129 can be a worm gear, and the second gear 141 of the drive motor 140 can be a worm. However, the first gear 130 can be any type of gear or means for transmitting the rotational force of the drive motor 140. Alternatively, the drive motor 130 can be directly coupled to the control housing 129 to rotate the control housing 129.

[0029] Furthermore, a connecting slot or hole 126 can be axially connected to the guide hole 128. The connecting slot or hole 126 can be formed at one end of the control housing 129 such that the connecting hole 126 allows the guide projection 122 to be easily inserted into the guide hole 128 when the inner housing 121 and the control housing 129 are joined together.

[0030] A fastening projection 125b can protrude radially inwards. The fastening projection 125b can be formed at one end of the inner cover shaft 125. A fastening groove 127a, into which the fastening projection 125b of the inner cover shaft 125 is inserted, can be formed at one end of the upper steering shaft 127.

[0031] One end of the upper steering shaft 127 can be coupled to the steering wheel 100, so that the inner cover shaft 125, the upper steering shaft 127 and the steering wheel 100 can slide axially inwards or outwards together.

[0032] However, although the fastening projection 125b may be formed on the inner cover shaft 125 and the fastening groove 127a may be formed in the upper steering shaft 127, the present disclosure is not limited to this structure. For example, the fastening projection 125b may be formed on the upper steering shaft 127, and the fastening groove 127a may be formed in the inner cover shaft 125.

[0033] A locking projection 121c can project radially inwards and be formed at one end of the inner housing 121. A locking groove 125a can be formed at the end of the inner cover shaft 125, and the locking projection 121a of the inner housing 121 can be coupled to the locking groove 125a such that the inner housing 121 and the inner cover shaft 125 can move or slide together.

[0034] However, although the locking groove 125a may be formed in the inner cover shaft 125 and the locking projection 121a may be formed on the inner housing 121, the present disclosure is not limited to these possibilities. For example, the locking projection 121a may be formed on the inner cover shaft 125, and the locking groove 125a may be formed in the inner housing 121. Furthermore, instead of grooves and projections, the inner housing 121 and the inner cover shaft 125 may have any structure or means that can couple the inner housing 121 and the inner cover shaft 125.

[0035] The steering column 110 can further include an outer cover shaft 115. The outer cover shaft 115 can have an end that is movably coupled to both the inner cover shaft 125 and the inner housing 121 such that the inner cover shaft 125 and the inner housing 121 can move or slide axially with respect to the outer cover shaft 115.

[0036] The outer cover shaft 115 has one end supported by the inner cover shaft 125 and the inner housing 121, and the other end supported by the lower steering shaft 131 to support the axial sliding movement of the inner cover shaft 125.

[0037] The steering column 110 may also contain the lower steering shaft 131. The lower steering shaft 131 may be inserted into or arranged in the outer cover shaft 115. One end of the lower steering shaft 131 may be inserted into or arranged in the upper steering shaft 127, and the other end may be supported by the outer cover shaft 115 in such a way that the upper steering shaft 127 can move or slide axially with respect to the lower steering shaft 131.

[0038] An upper stop 131a can be formed at one end of the lower steering shaft 131, and a lower stop 127b corresponding to the upper stop 131a can be formed at one end of the upper steering shaft 127 (for example, an end of the upper steering shaft 127 that is positioned opposite the other end of the upper steering shaft 127 that is coupled to the steering wheel 100), so that separation of the upper steering shaft 127 from the lower steering shaft 131 can be prevented and the sliding path or movement of the upper steering shaft 127 during the sliding movement of the upper steering shaft 127 can be limited.

[0039] A cover pad 117 can be arranged on the outer side of the inner cover shaft 125. The cover pad 117 and the inner housing 121 can be connected by an elastic part 155. When the inner housing 121 slides into the control housing 129, the cover pad 117 can be stopped or supported by one end of the cover housing 123.

[0040] For example, when the upper steering shaft 127 and the inner cover shaft 125 are removed from the instrument panel 150, the removal of the steering wheel 100 and / or the steering column 110 can be stopped or limited by the lower stop 127b of the upper steering shaft 127 and the upper stop 131a of the lower steering shaft 131. When the upper steering shaft 127 and the inner cover shaft 125 are inserted into the instrument panel 150, the insertion of the steering shaft 100 and / or the steering column 110 can be stopped or limited by the cover pad 117 and one end of the cover housing 123.

[0041] The cover pad 117 can limit the sliding path or movement of the steering wheel 100 and / or the steering column 110 when the steering column 110 is retracted, and can allow close contact with the cover housing 123 through the elastic part 155 when the steering column 110 is fully retracted to prevent foreign substances from entering the cover housing 123.

[0042] According to Fig. 5 the steering column 110 may further contain according to embodiments of the present disclosure: An actuating switch 101, which is arranged on the steering wheel 100 combined with the upper steering shaft 127, to be actuated in a pushing direction; a sensor 161, which detects the number of times the switch is pressed, the actuating intensity and the actuating time of the actuating switch 101; and a control device 163, which actuates the drive motor 140 in a forward direction or a reverse direction depending on the number of times the switch is pressed inputted by the sensor 161 and actuates the drive motor 140 for an actuating time inputted by the sensor 161 if an actuating intensity value is greater than a predetermined actuating value, by comparing the actuating intensity value inputted by the sensor 161 and the predetermined actuating value.

[0043] The actuating switch 101 is actuated in a pushing direction, so that, for example, the steering column 110 can be retracted when the actuating switch 101 is actuated once in the pushing direction, and can be extended when the actuating switch 101 is actuated twice in the pushing direction.

[0044] The actuation value previously set in the control device 163 serves to prevent an error by a driver, and if the actuation switch 101 is unintentionally pressed to retract or extend the steering column 110, the drive motor 140 will not be actuated.

[0045] This means that an actuation intensity value detected by an intended actuation by a driver is set in the control device 163 as the actuation value such that if the actuation switch 101 is actuated with an intensity less than the actuation intensity value detected by an intended actuation by a driver, the drive motor 140 is not actuated and the steering column 110 is neither retracted nor extended. Accordingly, if an actuation intensity value less than the actuation value is entered, this is determined as an incorrect actuation and the drive motor 140 is not actuated.

[0046] The actuating switch 101 may be arranged on steering wheels 100, 200 and 300 for the convenience of the driver, but this is not limited to this, and it may be arranged on the door frame at the driver's seat of a vehicle, so that a detailed description is not provided.

[0047] The sensor 161 detects and sends the number of times the actuating switch 101 is pressed to the control device 163, and the control device 163 determines the direction of rotation of the drive motor 140 by determining the driver's intention based on the entered number of presses, whether the steering column 110 should be retracted or extended.

[0048] Furthermore, the sensor 161 detects and transmits the actuation intensity and actuation time of the actuation switch 101 pressed by the driver to the control device 163, and the control device 163 actuates the drive motor 140 on the basis of the input actuation intensity and actuation time.

[0049] Accordingly, in this case the drive motor 140 is actuated according to the actuation time of the actuation switch 101 pressed by the driver, and the contraction or extension travel of the steering column 110 is also increased in proportion to the actuation time by the driver.

[0050] If the actuation intensity value input by the sensor 161 is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum actuation value, the control device 163 actuates the drive motor 140 such that the guide projection 122 of the inner housing 121 is moved to one end or the other end of the guide hole 128 of the control housing 129, thereby extending or retracting the steering column 110 to its maximum extent.

[0051] The maximum actuation value set in the control device 163 represents an actuation intensity value detected by the driver's intentional actuation, where the driver presses harder on the actuation switch 101 than in a normal state to extend or retract the steering column 110 to its maximum extent, and this actuation intensity value is set as the maximum actuation value. Accordingly, if the actuation intensity value applied by the driver is equal to or greater than the predetermined maximum actuation value, the drive motor 140 is actuated to extend or retract the steering column 110 to its maximum extent.

[0052] If the actuation intensity value input from a sensor is less than the predetermined maximum actuation value, the control device 163, as described above, actuates the drive motor 140 according to the actuation intensity and actuation time by the driver pressing the actuation switch 101.

[0053] Accordingly, in this case the drive motor 140 is actuated according to the actuation time of the actuation switch 101 pressed by the driver, and the contraction or extension travel of the steering column 110 is also increased in proportion to the actuation time by the driver.

[0054] The steering column 110 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can further include an ignition switch 160 which sends an ignition on or ignition off state of an internal combustion engine to the control device 163.

[0055] In this case, when a signal input from the ignition switch 160 changes from ON to OFF or from OFF to ON, the control device 163 actuates the drive motor 140 such that the guide projection 122 is moved to one end or the other end of the guide hole 128, thereby maximally contracting or extending the steering column 110.

[0056] This means that when the signal input from the ignition switch 160 changes from ON to OFF or from OFF to ON, it means that the driver has stopped driving the vehicle and has no intention of continuing to drive, or the driver intends to start driving the vehicle, so that the drive motor 140 is operated in such a way that the steering column 110 is maximally retracted or extended.

[0057] If the signal input from the ignition switch 160 maintains the ON state, the control device 163 keeps the drive motor 140 in a stop state, even if a push signal is input from the sensor 161.

[0058] This means that if the driver keeps the ignition switch 160 in the ON position, this means that the vehicle is being driven, so that if the steering column 110 is retracted or extended while the vehicle is being driven, a safety accident may occur.

[0059] Accordingly, if the signal input from the ignition switch 160 is kept in the ON state, the control device 163 does not actuate the drive motor 140, so that the steering column 110 is not retracted or extended, even if the driver operates the actuating switch 101.

[0060] Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to achieve a specific actuation state of the steering column 110 when a vehicle is in a self-driving mode.

[0061] For example, for a self-driving mode of a vehicle, a specific self-driving mode switch may be installed such that when a driver turns on the self-driving mode switch, even if the signal input from the ignition switch 160 is in the ON state, the steering column 110 is retracted into the dashboard so that the driver is able to make greater use of the space around the driver's seat.

[0062] According to the Fig. 6 to 15 includes a steering wheel 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure: A housing 207 connected to the upper steering shaft 127 of a vehicle and having a first opening 203 and a second opening 205 on both sides; a first movable partial wheel 209 and a second movable partial wheel 211 configured to be inserted into the housing 207 through the first opening 203 and the second opening 205, and to protrude from it; and a wheel actuator 213 arranged in the housing 207 and combined with the first movable partial wheel 209 and the second movable partial wheel 211 to provide a driving force.

[0063] The housing 207, which is connected to the upper steering shaft 127 of a vehicle, is formed, for example, in an essentially hollow cylindrical shape, and the upper steering shaft 127 of a vehicle is connected to the lower side of the housing 207.

[0064] The first opening 203 and the second opening 205 are formed on one of the two sides of the housing 207.

[0065] The first movable partial wheel 209 is rotatably supported on one side in the housing 207 and is inserted into the housing 207 through the first opening 203 and protrudes from it.

[0066] An example of the configuration of the first movable indexing gear 209 is described in detail. The first movable indexing gear 209 comprises a first rotating shaft 217a, which is rotatably supported on one side of the housing 207; a first driven gear 217, which is mounted on the first rotating shaft 217a and engages with a gear drive gear 215 to be described below; and a first handle 219, which is combined with the first rotating shaft 217a to be inserted into the housing 207 through the first opening 203 and to protrude from it, depending on the direction of rotation of the first rotating shaft 217a.

[0067] The first rotary shaft 217a is rotatably supported on one side in the housing 207, and although this is not shown in the drawings, the first rotary shaft 217a can be rotatably supported by a bearing which is inserted into the housing 207 and attached to an inner side of it.

[0068] The first driven gear 217 is mounted on the first rotating shaft 217a and is engaged with the wheel drive gear 215, which is described below.

[0069] According to this configuration, a rotary motion of the wheel drive gear 215 is transmitted to the first driven gear 217, so that the first rotating shaft 217a is rotated.

[0070] The first handle 219 is combined with the first rotating shaft 217a, so that when the first rotating shaft 217a is rotated, the first handle 219 is rotated around the first rotating shaft 217a.

[0071] That is, the first handle 219 is inserted into the housing 207 through the first opening 203 and protrudes from it, depending on the direction of rotation of the first rotating shaft 217a.

[0072] The second movable partial wheel 211 is rotatably supported on the other side of the housing 207 and is inserted into the housing 207 through the second opening 205 and protrudes from it.

[0073] An example of the configuration of the second movable indexing gear 211 is described in detail. The second movable indexing gear 211 includes a second rotating shaft 222a, which is rotatably supported on the other side in the housing 207; a second driven gear 222, which is mounted on a second rotating shaft 222a and is in mesh with a connecting gear 221 to be described below; and a second handle 223, which is combined with the second rotating shaft 222a to be inserted through the second opening 205 into the housing 207 and to protrude from the housing, depending on the direction of rotation of the second rotating shaft 222a.

[0074] The second rotary shaft 222a is rotatably supported on the other side in the housing 207, and although this is not shown in the drawings, the second rotary shaft 222a can be rotatably supported by a bearing that is inserted into the housing 207 and fastened on its inner side. The second driven gear 222 is mounted on the second rotary shaft 222a and is in mesh with the connecting gear 221.

[0075] The connecting gear 221 is rotatably supported in the housing 207 and engages with the wheel drive gear 215.

[0076] This means that the connecting gear 221 connects the wheel drive gear 215 and the second driven gear 222 in such a way that the direction of rotation of the second driven gear 222 becomes the same as the direction of rotation of the wheel drive gear 215.

[0077] The second handle 223 is combined with the second rotating shaft 222a, so that when the second rotating shaft 222a is rotated, the second handle 223 is rotated around the second rotating shaft 222a.

[0078] That is, the second handle 223 is inserted into the housing 207 through the second opening 205 and protrudes from it, depending on the direction of rotation of the second rotating shaft 222a.

[0079] The wheel actuator 213 is arranged in the housing 207 and provides a drive torque for the first movable partial wheel 209 and the second movable partial wheel 211.

[0080] An example of the wheel actuator 213 is described in detail. The wheel actuator 213 is coupled and mounted in the housing 207 and contains a wheel drive motor 227 with a drive shaft 225 and a wheel actuator gear 215, which is mounted on the drive shaft 225.

[0081] The wheel drive motor 227 is coupled to and attached to the inner side of the housing 207 and can be an electric motor with the drive shaft 225.

[0082] The wheel drive gear 215 is mounted on the drive shaft 225 and is in engagement with the first driven gear 217 and the connecting gear 221.

[0083] According to the Fig. 6 to 10 will be when the wheel actuator 213 is actuated and the wheel drive gear 215 rotates in a first direction (clockwise). Fig. 10) is rotated, the first driven gear 217 in a second direction (counterclockwise in Fig. 10) rotated. Accordingly, the first handle 219 is also rotated counterclockwise around the first axis of rotation 217a, causing the first handle 219 to protrude from the housing 207 through the first opening 203 of the housing 207.

[0084] In this process, the connecting gear 221 is rotated counterclockwise, and the second driven gear 222, which is engaged with the connecting gear 221, is rotated clockwise, so that the second handle 223 is also rotated clockwise around the second rotating shaft 222a. Accordingly, the second handle 223 protrudes from the housing 207 through the second opening 205 of the housing 207.

[0085] That is, if the wheel drive gear 215 is in the first direction (clockwise in Fig. When 10) is turned, the first handle 219 and the second handle 223 protrude from the housing 207.

[0086] This operation causes the steering wheel's operational state to be switched to a driver-operated driving mode of a vehicle.

[0087] That means, in a driver's driving mode of a vehicle, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the steering wheel 200 of the vehicle extends out from the dashboard 102, so that a driver can steer with the movable partial wheels 209 and 211 in his hands.

[0088] In contrast, according to the Fig. 8 to 12, when the wheel actuator 213 is actuated and the wheel drive gear 215 rotates in the second direction (counterclockwise). Fig. 12) is rotated, the first driven gear 217 in the first direction (clockwise in Fig. 12) turned.

[0089] Accordingly, the first handle 219 is also rotated clockwise around the first rotating shaft 217a, whereby the first handle 219 is inserted into the housing 207 through the first opening 203 of the housing 2017.

[0090] In this process, the connecting gear 221 is rotated clockwise, and the second driven gear 222, which is engaged with the connecting gear 221, is rotated counterclockwise, so that the second handle 223 is also rotated counterclockwise around the second rotating shaft 222a. Accordingly, the second handle 223 is inserted into the housing 207 through the second opening 205 of the housing 207.

[0091] That is, if the wheel drive gear 215 is in the second direction (clockwise in Fig. 12) is turned, the first handle 219 and the second handle 223 are inserted into the housing 207.

[0092] This operation causes the steering wheel's operating state to become the self-driving mode of a vehicle.

[0093] That is, in a self-driving mode of a vehicle, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the steering wheel 200 of the vehicle is inserted into the dashboard 102, so that a driver can make greater use of the space around the driver's seat.

[0094] On the other hand, according to the Fig. 16 to 23 a steering wheel 300 according to embodiments of the present disclosure: a housing 303 which is connected to the upper steering shaft 127 of a vehicle and has a first opening 401 and a second opening 401' on both sides; a first movable partial wheel 305 and a second movable partial wheel 305' which are configured to be inserted into the housing 303 through the first opening 401 and the second opening 401' or to protrude from it; and a wheel actuator 403 which is arranged in the housing 303 and is combined with the first movable partial wheel 305 and the second movable partial wheel 305' to provide a driving force.

[0095] The housing 303 is connected to the upper steering shaft 127 of a vehicle and has the first opening 401 and the second opening 401' each on one of the two sides of the housing 303.

[0096] The first movable indexing wheel 305 and the second movable indexing wheel 305' are located in pairs on one side of the housing 303.

[0097] The wheel drive gear 405 is located in the housing 303 and is rotated by the wheel actuator 403.

[0098] The wheel drive gear 405 is rotatably combined with a rear plate 407, which is combined with the housing 303 and engages with a gear 411, which is mounted on a rotating shaft 409 of the wheel actuator 403, which is attached to and supported on the rear plate 407, such that a drive torque of the wheel actuator 403 is transmitted through the gear 411 to the wheel drive gear 405.

[0099] The first movable partial gear 305 and the second movable partial gear 305' are engaged with the wheel drive gear 405 and are moved according to a direction of rotation of the wheel drive gear 405, so that the distances at which they protrude through the first opening 401 and the second opening 401' are changed.

[0100] An example of the configuration of the first movable partial gear 305 and the second movable partial gear 305' is described in detail. The first movable partial gear 305 and the second movable partial gear 305' have: movable rods 413 and 413' with teeth on the surfaces facing the wheel drive gear 405, in order to engage with the wheel drive gear 405; and a first grip 415 and a second grip 415' formed at the ends of the movable rods 413 and 413'.

[0101] The movable rods 413 and 413' are formed, for example, in a long rod shape, and teeth are formed on the surfaces facing the wheel drive gear 405 by surfaces of the movable rods 413 and 413'.

[0102] The teeth are adapted to the wheel drive gear 405 so that the movable rods 413 and 413' can be moved straight in a first direction or a second direction, depending on the rotation of the wheel drive gear 405.

[0103] A support gear 421, which engages with the teeth of the movable rods 413 and 413', is rotatably combined with the rear plate 407. Because of the support gear 421, the movable rods 413 and 413' are more stably supported when moved left and right in the first or second direction.

[0104] The movable rods 413 and 413' can have stop projections 417 which protrude from surfaces opposite to the surfaces facing the wheel drive gear 405 and limit the movement paths of the movable rods 413 and 413'.

[0105] The stop projections 216 are inserted into slots 503 which are formed in guide plates 501 of a cover plate 307, which is described below.

[0106] The first grip 415 and the second grip 415' are formed at the ends of the movable rods 413 and 413'. The first grip 415 and the second grip 415' are parts that a driver holds in their hands to steer in a manual driving mode.

[0107] The first handle 415 and the second handle 415' can be formed in a rounded rod shape.

[0108] The first movable partial wheel 305 and the second movable partial wheel 305' can have extension rods 419 arranged parallel to the movable rods 413 and 413' opposite to the movable rods 413 and 413' with the wheel actuator 405 between them, having ends connected to the first handle 415 and the second handle 415'.

[0109] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing 303 includes the cover plate 307, which covers the wheel drive gear 405 and the movable rods 413 and 413', and includes the guide plates 501 with the slots 503 into which the stop projections 417 are inserted and moved within a predetermined range. The cover plate 307 is a flat plate and acts as a cover that protects the wheel drive gear 405 and the movable rods 413 and 413'.

[0110] The guide plates 501 are formed on the cover plate 307 and project from a rear side (facing the wheel drive gear 405) of the cover plate 307, and the slots 503, which have a predetermined length, are formed in the guide plates 501.

[0111] The stop projections 417 are inserted into the slots 503.

[0112] Accordingly, since the stop projections 417 of the movable rods 413 and 413' can only be moved to one end or the other end of the slots 503 when the movable rods 413 and 413' are moved in a first direction or a second direction by rotating the wheel drive gear 405 and have entered a manual driving mode or a self-driving mode, the travel paths of the movable rods 413 and 413' can be mechanically adjusted.

[0113] As shown in the drawings, the movable rods 413 and 413' are obviously arranged opposite each other with the wheel drive gear 405 between them. Furthermore, the extension rods 419 and 419' are arranged outside the movable rods 413 and 413'.

[0114] Slots 503 and 503' are also symmetrically formed.

[0115] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, in the self-driving mode of a vehicle, the vehicle's steering wheel 300 is integrated into the dashboard 102, with the first movable partial wheel 305 and the second movable partial wheel 305' being inserted maximally into the housing 303. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. Figure 23 shows that in the manual driving mode of a vehicle, the steering wheel 300 of a vehicle extends from the dashboard 102, with the first movable partial wheel 305 and the second movable partial wheel 305' extending maximally out of the housing 303.

[0116] According to these embodiments, a steering column protrudes from the dashboard, and a steering wheel is positioned for the driver to operate, or the steering column is integrated into the dashboard, and the steering wheel is positioned close to it. Furthermore, in a driver-operated driving mode, movable wheel sections of the steering wheel protrude from the steering wheel, allowing the driver to steer the vehicle using these sections. Additionally, in a self-driving mode, movable wheel sections are integrated into the steering wheel, enabling the driver to utilize more of the space around the driver's seat.

[0117] Additionally, since terms such as "containing," "featuring," and "having" indicate that one or more corresponding components may exist, unless specifically stated otherwise, they should be interpreted as meaning that one or more other components may be included. All terms used in a technical, scientific, or other manner have the same meanings as those understood by a person skilled in the art, unless otherwise defined. General terms found in dictionaries should not be interpreted too ideally or impractically in the text of relevant technical literature, unless expressly defined otherwise in the present disclosure.

[0118] The foregoing embodiments have been described solely for the purpose of illustrating the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure, and it is obvious to the person skilled in the art that various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that the embodiments contained in the present disclosure illustrate the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited by the embodiment. The scope of the present disclosure is to be interpreted on the basis of the accompanying claims in such a way that all technical ideas contained in the scope equivalent to the claims belong to the present disclosure.

Claims

[1] Steering device for a vehicle which has: a steering wheel (100, 200, 300) connected to an upper steering shaft (127), which has a steering wheel (100, 200, 300): a case (207, 303) with a first (203, 401) and a second opening (205, 401'), a first (209, 305) and a second (211, 305') partial wheel, which are configured to be movable in order to be inserted into the housing through the first (203, 401) and the second (205, 401') opening, or to protrude from it, and a wheel actuator (213, 403) arranged in the housing (207) and associated with the first (209, 305) and second (211, 305') partial wheel to provide a driving force; and a steering column (101) which has: an inner cover shaft (125) coupled to the upper steering shaft (127) which is connected to the steering wheel (100, 200, 300), an inner housing (121) coupled to the inner cover shaft (125) and having a guide projection (122) formed on an outer surface of the inner housing (121), a control housing (129) with a guide slot formed to accommodate the guide projection (122) of the inner housing (121), and a cover housing (123) which is attached to the vehicle, wherein the control housing (129) is rotatably arranged in the cover housing (123). [2] Steering device according to claim 1, further comprising: a column drive motor configured to rotate the control housing (129) and connected to the cover housing (123), a first gear (130) which is rotatably coupled to the control housing (129), and a second gear (141) which is arranged or formed on a shaft of the column drive motor to rotate the first gear (130). [3] Steering device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control housing (129) of the steering column (110) further comprises a connecting slot (126) which is connected to the guide slot (128) and is formed at one end of the control housing (129). [4] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one is formed by a fastening projection (125b) and a fastening groove (127a) on / in the inner cover shaft (125), and the other is formed by the fastening projection (125b) and the fastening groove (127a) on / in the upper steering shaft (127). [5] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one is formed by a locking projection (121a, 121c) and a locking groove (125a) on / in the inner housing (121), and the other is formed by the locking projection (121a, 121c) and the locking groove (125a) on / in the inner cover shaft (125). [6] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an outer cover shaft (115) with an end that is arranged between the inner cover shaft (125) and the inner housing (121) such that the inner cover shaft (125) and the inner housing (121) are axially slidable with respect to the outer cover shaft (115). [7] Steering device according to claim 6, further comprising a lower steering shaft (131) arranged in the outer cover shaft (115), wherein the lower steering shaft (131) is associated with the upper steering shaft (127) in such a way that the upper steering shaft (127) is axially slideable with respect to the lower steering shaft (131), wherein the lower steering shaft (131) is supported by the outer cover shaft (115). [8] Steering device according to claim 7, further comprising an upper stop (131a) formed on the lower steering shaft (131) and a lower stop (127b) formed on the upper steering shaft (127) and associated with the upper stop (131a) to prevent separation of the upper steering shaft (127) from the lower steering shaft (131). [9] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a cover pad (117) arranged on an outer surface of the inner cover shaft (125), wherein the cover pad (117) and the inner housing (121) are connected by an elastic part (155). [10] Steering device according to claim 9, wherein the cover pad (117) is supported by an end of the cover housing (123) when the inner housing (121) slides into the control housing (129). [11] Steering device according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 10, insofar as they depend on claim 2, which further comprises: an actuating switch (101) which is actuated by pressing; a sensor (161) configured to detect at least one of the number of times the actuator switch (101) is pressed, the actuation intensity and the actuation time; and a control device (163) configured to control a direction of rotation of the column drive motor according to the number of times the sensor (161) detects, or the actuation of the column drive motor during the actuation time detected by the sensor (161), when the actuation intensity detected by the sensor (161) is greater than a predetermined actuation value. [12] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the first (209, 305) and second (211, 305') partial gears are rotatably supported in the housing (207, 303), the wheel actuator (213, 403) provides a drive torque for the first (209, 305) and the second (211, 305') partial wheel, and the first (209, 305) and the second (211, 305') part wheel are inserted into the first (203, 401) and the second (205, 401') opening by turning or protrude from them. [13] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the wheel actuator (213, 403) comprises: a wheel drive motor (227) arranged in the housing (207, 303) and containing a drive shaft (225, 409); and a wheel drive gear (215, 405) coupled to the drive drive shaft (225, 409). [14] Steering device according to claim 13, wherein the first partial wheel (209, 305) comprises: a first rotating shaft (217a) which is rotatably arranged in the housing (207, 303); a first driven gear (217) which is arranged on the first rotating shaft (217a) and is in engagement with the wheel drive gear (215, 405), and a first handle (219, 415) which is movably coupled to the first rotating shaft (217a) such that the first handle (219, 415) is inserted through the first opening (203) into the housing (207, 303) of the steering wheel (100, 200, 300) or protrudes from it depending on the rotation of the first rotating shaft (217a). [15] Steering device according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising at least one connecting gear (221) rotatably arranged in the housing (207, 303) and engaging with the wheel drive gear (215, 405). [16] Steering device according to claim 15, wherein the second partial wheel (211, 305') comprises: a second rotating shaft (222a) which is rotatably arranged in the housing (207, 303); a second driven gear (222) arranged on the second rotating shaft (222a) and meshing with at least one connecting gear (221); and a second handle (223) which is movably coupled to the second pivot shaft (222a) such that the second handle (223) is inserted through the second opening (205) into the housing (207, 303) of the steering wheel (100, 200, 300) or protrudes from it depending on the rotation of the second pivot shaft (222a). [17] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a wheel actuator (213) arranged in the housing of the steering wheel (100, 200, 300) and configured to rotate a wheel drive gear (215, 405), wherein the first (209, 305) and the second (211, 305') partial gear engage with the wheel drive gear (215, 405) such that the first (209, 305) and the second (211, 305') partial gear are inserted into or protrude from the first (203, 401) and the second (205, 401') openings according to the rotation of the wheel drive gear (215, 405). [18] Steering device according to claim 17, in which each of the first (209, 305) and the second (211, 305') partial wheel comprises: movable rods (413) having teeth to engage with the wheel drive gear (215, 405); and a first (219) and a second (223) handle formed at the ends of the movable rods (413). [19] Steering device according to claim 18, in which at least one of the movable rods (413) has one or more stop projections (216, 417) formed on a surface of the at least one of the movable rods (413) facing a surface towards the wheel drive gear (215, 405), and the stop projection (417) is configured to limit the movement of the movable rods (413). [20] Steering device according to claim 19, wherein the housing (207, 303) of the steering wheel (100, 200, 300) has a cover plate (307) that covers the wheel drive gear (215) and the movable rods (413), wherein the cover plate (307) has one or more guide plates (501) with one or more slots (503), and wherein the one or more stop projections (216, 417) are movably arranged in the one or more slots (503).

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