Steering device for vehicles

Abstract

Steering device for a vehicle which features: a steering wheel (110, 600, 900) comprising a shaft coupler (230) connected to an upper steering shaft (331), and a first (210) and a second (220) handle part coupled to the shaft coupler (230); a steering column (330) comprising the upper steering shaft (331), which steering column (330) is connected to the shaft coupler (210) of the steering wheel (110, 600, 900) in order to change the length of the steering column (330) according to driving modes; and a control device (240) configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part (210), the second handle part (220) and the wave coupler (230) depending on the driving modes; characterized in that the steering column (330) comprises: a rack (521) arranged axially on a region of an outer surface of the upper steering shaft (331); and an outer column (332) with a gear coupling hole (530) corresponding to the rack (521), the gear coupling hole (530) being open to engage with a pinion (540).

Description

BACKGROUND 1. Technical field

[0001] Several embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a steering device for a vehicle. More precisely, some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a steering device for a vehicle that allows a driver to make greater use of the space around the driver's seat by sliding a steering column into or out of an instrument panel and / or by sliding a handle part of the steering wheel into or out of the steering wheel depending on different driving modes, such as a driver driving mode and a self-driving mode. 2. Description of the state of the art

[0002] Generally, an automotive steering system includes a steering wheel through which the driver inputs steering input. A steering shaft connected to the steering wheel is attached to the vehicle's chassis. Additionally, a telescopic or tilting mechanism, etc., may be installed for driver comfort.

[0003] The telescopic device is a device that allows a steering column to be extended and retracted axially, 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 body shapes of the drivers.

[0005] In particular, more recently, as self-driving vehicles are being more actively studied and developed, there has been a demand for a structure that can extend and retract a steering column and steering wheel, thereby enabling expanded use of the space around a driver's seat in a self-driving mode.

[0006] WO 2017 / 060 149 A1 discloses a steering device for a land vehicle, a watercraft, an amphibious vehicle, or an aircraft with a front facing in the direction of travel or flight. The steering device comprises a steering wheel rotatable about a steering axis, consisting of at least two steering wheel segments and / or steering wheel levers, wherein at least one steering wheel segment or at least one steering wheel lever can be folded from a first position, in which the steering wheel segments and / or steering wheel levers form the steering wheel, towards the front and into a second position, in which the steering wheel segment and / or the steering wheel lever is substantially parallel to the steering axis. The invention further relates to a use for such a steering device.

[0007] DE 10 2006 006 995 A1 discloses a motor vehicle comprising a steering wheel and a switchable autopilot system, wherein the steering wheel is automatically adjustable between a geometrically small shape when the autopilot system is switched on and a geometrically large shape when the autopilot system is switched off, depending on the operating state of the autopilot system.

[0008] JP 2008 - 68 814 A discloses a steering wheel equipped with a handle rotatably mounted about the axis of a steering shaft, and with a spoke comprising a first connecting part attached to the handle and a second connecting part attached to the steering shaft. The spoke is designed such that a tubular link is axially movable, allowing the distance between the handle and the center of the steering shaft to be varied. Accordingly, the tubular link is moved axially during rotation of the handle, enabling the handle to describe a desired path of rotation in a non-circular shape around the axis of the steering shaft.

[0009] EP 3 050 775 A1 discloses a steering wheel for a vehicle, comprising a steering wheel ring, wherein the steering wheel ring is designed in such a way that the geometry of the steering wheel ring can be changed from a full-ring steering wheel to a partial-ring steering wheel, in particular it can be switched.

[0010] CN 2 06 520 644 U discloses a switchable, flexible vehicle steering wheel that allows switching between a semicircular structure and a full circle structure.

[0011] CN 106 627 724 A discloses a telescopically foldable 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 extended 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. SUMMARY

[0012] The object of the present invention is to enable expanded use of the space around a driver's seat in a self-driving mode.

[0013] This problem is solved by a steering device according to the independent claim. Possible embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0014] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a steering device for a vehicle. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a steering column can project from an instrument panel in the steering device according to the driver's needs, and a steering wheel can be moved into a position where it can be operated by the driver, or the steering column can be recessed into the instrument panel and the steering wheel can be moved close to the instrument panel. According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, grips of a steering wheel can project from the steering wheel in a driver-operated driving mode such that the driver can steer the vehicle with the grips in their hands. Additionally, grips can be housed in the steering wheel in a self-driving mode so that the driver can make greater use of the space around the driver's seat.

[0015] Furthermore, the aspect of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and other, unmentioned aspects of the present disclosure are clearly evident to the person skilled in the art from the following description.

[0016] According to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a steering device for a vehicle may comprise: a steering wheel comprising a shaft coupler connected to an upper steering shaft, and a first and a second handle part arranged on the shaft coupler; a steering column comprising the upper steering shaft and connected to the shaft coupler in order to change an axial length thereof according to the driving modes; and a control device configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part, the second handle part and the shaft coupler depending on the driving modes.

[0017] According to certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a steering column may protrude from an instrument panel according to the driver's needs, and a steering wheel may be moved into a position where it can be operated by the driver, or the steering column may be recessed into the instrument panel and the steering wheel may be positioned close to the instrument panel. Furthermore, according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, grips of a steering wheel may protrude from the steering wheel in a driver-operated driving mode, so that the driver can steer the vehicle with the grips in hand. Additionally, grips may be incorporated into the steering wheel in a self-driving mode, so that the driver can utilize the space around the driver's seat to a greater extent. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The aforementioned and other aspects, features 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 a view which schematically shows a first structure of a steering device for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 is a view which schematically shows a second structure of a steering device for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 is a view showing a steering wheel according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 is a view showing a steering column and a column drive motor of a steering device for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 5 is a front view showing a rotation of a steering wheel according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 6 is a view that schematically shows the steering column and the column drive motor; Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the rotation of the steering wheel; Fig. 8 is a view showing the arrangement of a liquid crystal display panel contained in the steering wheel; Fig. 9 is a view that schematically shows a coupling relationship between a display device and a second handle part; Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 flowcharts are those that show a procedure for operating a steering device for a vehicle; Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 perspective views are shown, depicting an area of ​​a steering column according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 cross-sectional views are shown, illustrating examples of extending and contracting a steering column according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 16 is a diagram that schematically shows the configuration of a steering column according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 perspective views are shown showing a steering wheel of a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure from above and from below; Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 cross-sectional views of Fig. 17 are; Fig. 21 is a view that is an example of a in Fig. The display module shown in section 17 indicates; Fig. 22 is a view showing a process of operating a steering wheel according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 23 and Fig. 24 perspective views are shown, illustrating an example in which handle parts protrude from a wave coupler of a steering wheel, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 25 and Fig. 26 perspective views are shown, which provide an example in which handle parts are inserted into a wave coupler of a steering wheel, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 27 and Fig. 28 perspective views are shown, which provide an example of the operation of an actuator and the handle parts that are in Fig. 23 are shown; Fig. 29 and Fig. These 30 perspective views provide an example of how an actuator and its handle parts can be used. Fig. 25 are shown; Fig. 31 is a view showing an example in which a steering wheel protrudes from a dashboard according to embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. 32 is a view showing an example in which a steering wheel is inserted into a dashboard according to embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTIVE EXAMPLES

[0019] 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 whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, the following description of the present disclosure omits a detailed description of known functions and configurations contained therein if such a description could impair the clarity of the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0020] 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 when 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.

[0021] A steering device for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure can include a steering wheel 110, a steering column 330 and a control device 240.

[0022] The steering wheel 110 can include a shaft coupler 230, a first handle 210, and a second handle 220. The shaft coupler 230 can be connected to an upper steering shaft 331. The first handle 210 and the second handle 220 can be mounted on the shaft coupler 230 or movably coupled to it.

[0023] The steering column 330 can have the upper steering shaft 331 and be connected to the shaft coupler 230 to change the axial length according to different driving modes.

[0024] The control device 240 can be configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220 and the shaft coupler 230, depending on the driving modes.

[0025] First, according to Fig. 1 the steering device 100 for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure comprising: a steering wheel 110 with a structure in which two or more grip parts (for example 210 and 220 of the Fig. 3 - 5) may overlap or be spread depending on the driving modes; a rack 140; a drawbar 150 and an articulated arm 160 connected to the rack 140; and vehicle wheels 170 connected to the articulated arm 160.

[0026] A motor 130 for a steering control can be contained in the rack 140.

[0027] The motor 130 can, for example, but is not limited to, be controlled or driven by an electronic control unit (ECU) 120. For example, the ECU 120 can drive the motor 130 by detecting a steering angle of the steering wheel 110 and sending a drive control signal to the motor 130 according to the detected steering angle.

[0028] The steering device 100 can be a mechanical automotive steering device comprising a structure formed by the steering wheel 110 and a mechanical power transmission element, such as an intermediate shaft between the steering column 330 and the rack 140. Alternatively, the steering device 100 can be a wire-steering automotive steering device without the mechanical power transmission element. Although the wire-steering automotive steering device is illustrated for the sake of simplicity, the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0029] The steering-by-wire automotive steering device can have a structure in which an ECU drives a motor contained in a rack (first exemplary structure) or an ECU drives actuators coupled to wheels (second exemplary structure).

[0030] For example, a first exemplary structure of the steering-by-wire automotive steering device 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows this first exemplary structure. According to this first exemplary structure, the ECU 120 can acquire steering information from the steering wheel 110 and send a control signal to the motor 130 to drive the motor 130 connected to the rack 140. The motor 130 can be configured to deliver a rotational force in response to the control signal. The rack 140 can be moved linearly or straight by the rotation of the motor 130.

[0031] The vehicle wheels 170 are pivoted by the linear or straight movement of the rack 140. For example, the second exemplary structure of the wire-steering automotive steering device 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is in Fig. Figure 2 shows that the ECU 120 can be configured to receive steering information from the convertible steering wheel 110 and to send at least one control signal to drive actuators 180 connected to the tie rods 150 and articulated arms 160. The wire-steering automotive steering device 100 may, for example, but is not limited to, include a reaction motor that generates torque in the direction opposite to the steering direction specified by a driver, a steering angle sensor, and a vehicle speed sensor, etc.

[0032] According to Fig. 3 The steering wheel 110 contained in the steering device 100 can include: a first handle 210, a second handle 220, a shaft coupler 230, and a control device 240. The first handle 210 can have a first connecting hole 412 on one side and a first handle 211 on the opposite side. The second handle 220 can have a second connecting hole corresponding to the first connecting hole 412 and a second handle 221 on the opposite side. The shaft coupler 230 can couple the first handle 210 and the second handle 220 to each other through the first connecting hole 412 and the second connecting hole.The control device 240 can be configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220 and the wave coupler 230 in different directions, so that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 can be spread out of the wave coupler 230 or the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 can be closed.

[0033] The first grip part 210 and the second grip part 220 can, for example (but are not limited to), be elliptical 3D parts. However, the first grip part 210 and / or the second grip part 220 can have a conventional grip shape (e.g., circular) or can have various shapes such as a rectangular parallelepiped, a cylinder, or any shape that the rider can grasp.

[0034] The first connecting hole 412 and the second connecting hole can have the same shape and size. However, the first connecting hole 412 and the second connecting hole can have a different shape and / or size. Although not shown, the position of the second connecting hole can be the same as that of the first connecting hole 412.

[0035] The driver can steer the vehicle using the first grip 212 and the second grip 221 in his hands. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the handles have curved open holes, but are not limited to this and can have any form of structure that a rider can comfortably grip.

[0036] The shaft coupler 230 can have the same shape as the first connecting hole 412 and the second connecting hole, so that the first connecting hole 412 and the second connecting hole can be coupled together on one side. A motor seat 211 for attaching or fixing a motor can be formed on the other side of the shaft coupler 230.

[0037] The motor mount 231 can be formed in the area that is not coupled to the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220. The motor mount 231 can be raised at both ends to prevent the motor from separating, but this is not the only possible configuration. The motor mount 231 can be formed integrally with the shaft coupler 230 or be a separate part.

[0038] The wave coupler 230 can have a third connecting hole 232 on one side for connection to the steering column 330, the length of which can be changed according to the driving modes. For example, a circular hole can be formed at the position where the engine mount 231 is located. However, it is not limited to this.

[0039] A projection may be formed on the inner surface or side of the third connecting hole 232 of the shaft coupler 230, and a groove may be formed in an area of ​​the steering column to prevent, but is not limited to, free play between the steering wheel 110 and the steering column 330.

[0040] The control device 240 can be used in the Fig. The control device 240 can be a control device arranged in a vehicle, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. 2 is shown. The control device can be an ECU, but is not limited to this. For the sake of simplicity, the following description illustrates that the control device 240 is the one shown in Fig. The ECU shown is 120.

[0041] The control device 240 can be configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220 and the wave coupler 230, and it can provide a control signal such that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 spread away from the wave coupler 230, or it can provide another control signal such that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 are closed.

[0042] The control device 240 can be configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220 and the shaft coupler 230, and can be configured to control the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 so that they are spread apart from the shaft coupler 230, or can control the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 so that they are closed, depending on the drive modes.

[0043] The drive modes can include at least a self-driving mode, in which a vehicle is operated automatically, or a driver-driven mode, in which a driver operates a vehicle manually. A detailed procedure for operating the steering wheel 110 and the steering column 330 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is described below.

[0044] According to the Fig. 4 and Fig. 6 There are various methods for rotating at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220, and the shaft coupler 230. For example, the steering device may also include a drive motor 310. The drive motor 310 can be configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220, and the shaft coupler 230 in response to one or more control signals issued by the control device 240. For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the second handle part 220 is moved in an arc shape by the drive motor 310 in a manner similar to unfolding a folded fan.

[0045] More precisely, the drive motor 310 can be arranged on the motor mount 231, and a first pinion 312 is arranged on or mounted on a first rotating shaft 311 of the drive motor 310. The drive motor 310 can, for example, but not limited to, have a hexagonal prism shape, as shown in Fig. Figure 4 shows that a first rack 320 can be arranged on the second handle part 220 to engage with the first pinion 312. The first rack 320 can be circular to surround an area of ​​the second connecting hole. The first pinion 312 can be any shape as long as it can engage with the first rack 320. Stops 321 can be configured to limit or stop the movement of the second handle part 220 and can be formed at one or both ends of the first rack 320. When the drive motor 310 is driven by the control device 240, the first pinion 312 is rotated by the first rotating shaft 311, and the first rack 320, which is engaged with the first pinion 312, is also moved accordingly.

[0046] For example, if the drive mode is a self-driving mode, the control device 240 rotates at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220, and the shaft coupler 230 in a first direction of rotation such that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 are closed, with the shaft coupler 230 positioned between them. If the drive mode is the driver-drive mode, the control device 240 rotates at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220, and the shaft coupler 230 in a second direction of rotation such that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 are spread apart.

[0047] For example, in the self-driving mode as described above, the second handle part 220 is rotated counterclockwise, which is the first direction of rotation from the viewpoint of a driver who sees the steering wheel 110, due to the movement of the first pinion 312 and the first rack 320, so that the second handle part 220 overlaps the first handle part 210.

[0048] In contrast, in the driver driving mode, the second handle part 220 is rotated clockwise, which is the second direction of rotation from the viewpoint of a driver who sees the steering wheel 110, due to the movement of the first pinion 312 and the first rack 320, so that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 are spread apart.

[0049] The steering device 100 for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure can, as in Fig. Figure 4 shows the steering column 330 and a column drive motor 340. The steering column 330 can be connected to the shaft coupler 230, and the length of the steering column 130 is adjustable. The column drive motor 340 can be configured to change the length of the steering column 330 according to the driving modes.

[0050] When the steering column 330 is coupled with the shaft coupler 230, the length of the steering column 330 can be shorter when the driving mode is self-driving mode than the length of the steering column 330 when the driving mode is driver mode.

[0051] The steering column 330 can include an outer column 332 and an upper steering shaft 331 inserted into the outer column 332. The outer column 332 can be fixed by being combined with a coupling support (not shown) formed on the vehicle body.

[0052] The upper steering shaft 331 can be axially movable to project towards the driver, or it can be retracted by the column drive motor 340 to be inserted into an instrument panel. The operation of the steering column 330 is described in detail with reference to Fig. 6 described.

[0053] The column drive motor 340 is arranged in or inserted into the outer column 332 to engage with the upper steering shaft 331. The column drive motor 340 is driven in response to a control signal issued by the control device 240. The actuation of the column drive motor 340 is described in detail with reference to Fig. 6 described.

[0054] According to the above description, since the steering wheel 110 is designed to be convertible according to the driving modes, it is possible to provide more space for the passenger in the driver's seat, or it may allow a driver to steer the vehicle comfortably by hand.

[0055] Fig. Figure 6 is a view that schematically shows the steering column 330 and the column drive motor 340.

[0056] According to Fig. 6. The steering column 330 can contain the upper steering shaft 331, the outer column 332, etc. First grooves 510 can be formed on the outer side of the upper steering shaft 331, and projections (not shown) can be formed on the inner side of the outer column 332 to prevent free play of the upper steering shaft 331 and the outer column 332.

[0057] A second rack 521 can be arranged axially in a region on the outer side of the upper steering shaft 331. The length of the upper steering shaft 331 in an axial direction is greater than that of the outer column 332 in order to be coupled to a third connecting hole 232 formed in the shaft coupler 230. The second rack 521 of the upper steering shaft 331 can engage with a second pinion 540 of the column drive motor 340.

[0058] The outer column 332 can, for example, but is not limited to, be a hollow cylinder to accommodate at least part of the upper steering shaft 331. A transmission coupling hole 530 is formed axially on one side of the outer column 332 to expose the second rack 521 of the upper steering shaft 331.

[0059] For example, the gear coupling hole 530 can be shaped to correspond to the position of the second rack 521 and can be open to engage with the second pinion 540 of the column drive motor 340. The drive motor 530 can have a rectangular shape, as shown in Fig. 5 is shown, but is not limited to this.

[0060] The column drive motor 340 can include the second pinion 540, which engages with the second rack 521 of the upper steering shaft 331, and a second rotary shaft 550, which contains the second pinion 540. The second pinion 540 and the second rack 521 can be formed in any shape, as long as they can mesh with each other.

[0061] The second pinion 540 is rotated by the column drive motor 340. The second rack 521 is moved linearly or axially, for example upwards (second axial direction) or downwards (first axial direction) in Fig. 5 by rotating the second pinion 540.

[0062] Accordingly, the upper steering shaft 331, which is inserted into the outer column 332, can perform a telescopic movement to protrude partially further or to be retracted to its initial position.

[0063] For example, the control device 240 can be configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part 210, the second handle part 220, and the shaft coupler 230, and can drive the column drive motor 340. According to the same principles as described above, the control device 240 can control the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 to spread or close, with the shaft coupler part 230 positioned between them, by changing the direction of rotation.

[0064] The column drive motor 340 can be configured to allow the steering column 330 to project axially (second axial direction) such that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 are spread apart to get closer to a driver, or to retract the steering column 330 axially (first axial direction) such that the first handle part 210 and the second handle part 220 move away from the driver and overlap each other.

[0065] For example, as described above, the second handle section 220 is rotated to overlap the first handle section 210 or to be spread apart from it by rotating the drive motor 310. When the first handle section 210 and the second handle section 220 are spread apart, the upper steering shaft 331 can be moved axially by rotating the column drive motor 340 such that the steering wheel 110 projects towards the driver. When the first handle section 210 and the second handle section 220 overlap, the upper steering shaft 331 can be moved axially into the outer column 332 by rotating the column drive motor 340 (e.g., in the first axial direction).

[0066] When the driving mode is self-driving mode, the steering column 330 can be retracted in the first axial direction so that the first handle section 210 and the second handle section 220 are closed away from the driver, with the shaft coupler 230 located between them. When the driving mode is driver-driven mode, the steering column 330 can be extended in the second axial direction such that the first handle section 210 and the second handle section 220 are spread apart to bring them closer to the driver, with the shaft coupler 230 positioned between them.

[0067] The steering device 100 for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be a steering-by-wire steering device for a vehicle in which, without a mechanical energy transmission part between the steering wheel 110 and the rack 140, the ECU 120 receives steering information via the steering wheel 110 and sends a control signal to drive the motor 130, which is connected to the rack 140, or the actuators 180, which are connected to the tie rods 150 and the articulated arms 160, to the motor 130 or the actuators 180, so that the vehicle wheels 170 are pivoted by the motor 130 or the actuators 180.

[0068] According to the above description, since the automobile steering device 100, which includes the steering wheel 110 that is convertible according to the driving modes, is provided, it is possible to provide a further and more efficient space for the passenger in the driver's seat, or it may be possible to enable a driver to comfortably steer the vehicle by hand.

[0069] Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a rotation of a steering wheel 600 according to another embodiment, Fig. Figure 8 is a view showing an arrangement of a liquid crystal display panel contained in the steering wheel 600 according to another embodiment, and Fig. Figure 9 is a view that schematically shows the coupling relationship between a display device 610 and a second handle part 630.

[0070] According to the Fig. According to another embodiment, the steering wheel 600 can also have a display device 610 in addition to the steering wheel 110, as described in paragraphs 7 to 9. Fig. 3 to 5 illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure are included.

[0071] The display device 610 can include a fourth connecting hole 615, identical to the first connecting hole 412 and the second connecting hole, at one end, a display panel 611 at the other end, and an insert hole 625 surrounding the fourth connecting hole 615. The display panel 611 can, for example, but is not limited to, display or provide driving information such as the conditions of surrounding roads and the status of the vehicle to the driver. The display panel 611 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel or an organic light emission display (OLED) panel. The display panel 611 can be rectangular, as shown in Fig. 6 is shown, but is not limited to this.

[0072] A step 620 can be formed near the second handle 631 to adapt the display device 610 to the second handle part 630.

[0073] Step 620 can have a 3D shape that is identical to the shape of the edge near the display panel 611. Step 620 can be formed by a protruding area of ​​the second handle part 630, which contains the second handle 631, towards the driver.

[0074] The display device 610 can, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the components can be arranged separately. That is, if the steering wheel 600 is unfolded in the driver driving mode according to another embodiment, the display device 610 can be positioned in the middle separately from the first handle part 640 and the second handle part 630.

[0075] Unlike this structure, a display panel 650 can be arranged on a surface of the first handle part 640, as in Fig. Figure 8 shows that, according to another embodiment, if the steering wheel 600 is folded in self-driving mode, a driver can obtain image information from the display panel 650, which is contained in the first handle part 640.

[0076] The display device 610 can be rotated by the control device 240. The rotation can be achieved by various methods, but an example is given with reference to Fig. 9 described. The following description, which refers to Fig. 9 refers to the direction in which the driver looks at the steering wheel 110, with reference to the arrangement of the second grip part 630 and the indicator device 610.

[0077] According to Fig. 9 is a coupling projection 635, which is formed on the second handle part 630, inserted or fitted into the insert groove 625 formed in the display device 610.

[0078] The 625 insert slot can, as in Fig. Figure 9 shows an arc-shaped groove or hole in which the coupling projection 635 can move, but it is not limited to this. The insert groove 625 is positioned coaxially with the fourth connecting hole 615 such that it surrounds the fourth connecting hole 615 with a predetermined gap between them.

[0079] The coupling advantage 635 can, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the coupling projection 635 is formed in a shape corresponding to the structure of the insert groove 625 in order to be fitted into the insert groove 625. The coupling projection 635 can be moved within the insert groove 625.

[0080] When the display device 610 and the second handle part 630 are coupled to the wave coupler 230, as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the insert groove 625, which is located under the fourth connecting hole 615 of the display device 610, and the coupling projection 635, which is located under the second connecting hole of the second handle part 630, are also adapted to each other.

[0081] For example, the coupling projection 635 can be positioned on one side, for example the right side of the insert groove 625, when the second handle part 630 and the indicator device 610 overlap. As described above, when the second handle part 630 is moved, for example by the drive motor 310 as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the coupling projections 635 are rotated clockwise in the insert groove 625. When the second handle part 630 is moved and its longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the ground, the coupling projection can be positioned on the other side, for example, the left side of the insert groove 625.

[0082] When the second handle part 630 is moved further, the indicator device 610 is also moved, for example rotated clockwise on the basis of the fitting of the coupling projection 635 and the insert groove 625.

[0083] When the second handle part 630 has completed its movement, the insert groove 625 is positioned on the left side of the fourth connecting hole 615, and the coupling projection 635 is positioned on the upper left side of the insert groove 625. The indicator device 610 is, for example, positioned in the middle with its longitudinal axis perpendicular to the ground.

[0084] For example, the second handle part 630 is described above with reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. As described in section 4, the coupling projection 635 is moved in the insertion groove 625, and the indicator device 610 is also moved sequentially. When the second handle part 630 is stopped by the stop 321, the indicator device 610 can be positioned midway between the first handle part 640 and the second handle part 630. For example, the longitudinal axis of the indicator device 610 is positioned perpendicular to the ground, the first handle part 640 is positioned 90 degrees to the left of the indicator device 610, and the second handle part 630 is positioned 90 degrees to the right of the indicator device 610 in an essentially inverted T-shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this.

[0085] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure enable a driver to conveniently and easily obtain the driving information of a vehicle.

[0086] Fig. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing a method of actuating a steering device for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a method of actuating a steering device for a vehicle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] According to Fig. 10 may include the method of actuating the steering device for the vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure: selecting a driver driving mode or a self-driving mode (S100); spreading apart a first handle part and a second handle part with a wave coupler between them by rotating at least one of the first handle part, the second handle part and the wave coupler in a first direction of rotation when the driver driving mode is selected (S210); and closing the first handle part and the second handle part with the wave coupler between them by rotating at least one of the first handle part, the second handle part and the wave coupler in a second direction when the self-driving mode is selected (S220).

[0088] The driver can select one of the driving modes, such as driver driving mode and self-driving mode, by pressing physical buttons or touching electronic buttons located in a vehicle, but is not limited to this.

[0089] The operation of spreading or closing the first handle section and the second handle section, depending on the driving modes, can be described above with reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. The principle described in section 4 can be achieved.

[0090] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, a process of extending the steering column when the driver driving mode is selected (S310) and a process of contracting the steering column when the self-driving mode is selected (S320) will continue to be carried out.

[0091] The operation of extending or retracting a steering column can be performed according to the above with reference to the Fig. The principles described in points 3 to 6 can be achieved.

[0092] The in the Fig. 10 and Fig. The sequence of steps shown is only an example for the sake of simplicity; the order of the steps can be changed, and additional steps can still be included between them. Alternatively, two or more steps can be integrated, or one step can be split into two or more steps.

[0093] According to FIGN: 12 to 16, a steering column 700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure has a structure which is axially compressed while it is axially contracted or stretched.

[0094] For example, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the steering column 700 is axially compressed from the steering wheel 110 into a cover housing 723 with reference to a cover housing 723 attached to a vehicle body (not shown), so that the steering wheel 110 is arranged close to or axially protrudes from a dashboard 750 of the vehicle.

[0095] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the upper steering shaft 331 slides axially into or out of a lower steering shaft 731, and an inner cover housing 723, which is combined with the upper steering shaft 331, slides into or out of an outer cover shaft 715.

[0096] The inner housing 721, which is coupled to or combined with an inner cover shaft 725, slides axially into or out of a control housing 729.

[0097] Since one end of the inner cover shaft 725 is coupled to one end of the upper steering shaft 331, when the inner cover shaft 725 is axially inserted or removed, the upper steering shaft 331 is moved into or out of the lower steering shaft 731.

[0098] Since the inner housing 721 is coupled to one end of the inner cover shaft 725 and has a guide projection 722 on the other side, and the control housing 729 has a spiral guide hole 728 formed axially to receive the guide projection 722 of the inner housing 721 when the control housing 729 is rotated, the inner housing 721 slides axially.

[0099] The cover housing 723, which is attached to the vehicle body, supports a rotation of the control housing 729, which is rotatably inserted therein, and a drive motor 740, which rotates the control housing 729, is coupled to the other end of the cover housing 723.

[0100] A first gear 730 is formed at the other end of the control housing 729, and a second gear 741, which rotates the first gear 730 of the control housing 729, is arranged on the shaft of the drive motor 740, so that when the control housing 729 is rotated in a first direction or a second direction depending on the actuation direction of the drive motor 740, the inner housing 721, the inner cover shaft 725 and the upper steering shaft 331 slide accordingly inwards or outwards.

[0101] For example, the first gear 730 of the control housing 729 can be a worm gear, and the second gear 741 of the drive motor 740 can be a worm.

[0102] Furthermore, a connecting hole 726, which is axially connected to the guide hole 728, can be formed at one end of the control housing 729, so that the connecting hole 726 allows the guide projection 722 to be easily inserted into the guide hole 728 when the inner housing 721 and the control housing 729 are coupled or combined.

[0103] A fixing projection 725b, which projects radially inwards, is formed at one end of the inner cover shaft 725, and a fixing groove 727a, into which the fixing projection 725b of the inner cover shaft 725 is inserted, is formed at one end of the upper steering shaft 331.

[0104] One end of the upper steering shaft 331 is coupled to the steering wheel 110, so that the inner cover shaft 725, the upper steering shaft 331 and the steering wheel 110 can slide axially inwards or outwards together.

[0105] However, although in the drawings the fixing projection 725b is formed on the inner cover shaft 725 and the fixing groove 727a is formed in the upper steering shaft 331, the present disclosure is not limited to this structure. For example, the fixing projection 725b may be formed on the upper steering shaft 331, and the fixing groove 727a may be formed in the inner cover shaft 725.

[0106] A locking projection 721a, which extends radially inwards, is formed at one end of the inner housing 721, and a locking groove 725a, with which the locking projection 721a of the inner housing 721 is coupled, is formed at one end of the inner cover shaft 725, so that the inner housing 721 and the inner cover shaft 725 can slide together.

[0107] However, although in the drawings the locking groove 725a is formed in the inner cover shaft 725 and the locking projection 721a is formed on the inner housing 721, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the locking projection 721a may be formed on the inner cover shaft 725, and the cover groove 725a may be formed on the inner housing 721.

[0108] The steering column 700 can further include an outer cover shaft 715, which has one end in which the inner cover shaft 725 is coupled, and the other end on which the inner housing 721 is coupled, such that the inner cover shaft 725 and the inner housing 721 can slide axially.

[0109] The outer cover shaft 715 has one end that is supported by the inner cover shaft 725 and the inner housing 721, and the other end that is supported by the lower steering shaft 731 to support the axial sliding of the inner cover shaft 725.

[0110] The steering column 700 can further include a lower steering shaft 731 which is inserted into the outer cover shaft 715 and has one end which is inserted into the upper steering shaft 331 and the other end which is supported by the outer cover shaft 715, such that the upper steering shaft 331 can slide axially.

[0111] An upper stop 731a is formed at one end of the lower steering shaft 731, and a lower stop 727b, which supports the upper stop 731a, is formed at the other end of the upper steering shaft 331, so that if the upper steering shaft 331 slides, separation of the upper steering shaft 331 from the lower steering shaft 731 can be prevented and the sliding movement or distance can be limited.

[0112] A cover pad 717 is arranged on the outer side of the inner cover shaft 725, and ends of the cover pad 717 and the inner housing 721 are connected by an elastic part 755, so that when the inner housing 721 slides into the control housing 729, the cover pad 717 can be supported by an end of the cover housing 723.

[0113] For example, when the upper steering shaft 331 and the inner cover shaft 725 are removed, the removal is stopped by the lower stop 727b, which is supported by the upper stop 731a. Furthermore, when the upper steering shaft 331 and the inner cover shaft 725 are inserted, the insertion is stopped by the cover pad 717, which is supported by one end of the cover housing 723.

[0114] The cover pad 717 can restrict the sliding movement or the distance when the steering column 700 is retracted, and is brought into close contact with the inner housing 721 by the elasticity of the elastic part 755 when the steering column 700 is fully retracted, so that it is possible to prevent the ingress of foreign substances into the cover housing 723.

[0115] According to Fig. 16. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the steering column 700 may further include: an actuating switch 101, which is arranged on the steering wheel 110, which is coupled or combined with the upper steering shaft 331, to be actuated in a pushing direction; a sensor which is configured to detect the actuating intensity and the actuating time of the actuating switch 101 during at least one of the number of pushing operations;and a control device 763 configured to control or actuate the drive motor 740 in a forward or reverse direction, depending on the number of actuations inputted by the sensor 761, and to control or actuate the drive motor 740 during an actuation time inputted by the sensor 761 when an actuation intensity value is greater than a predetermined actuation value, by comparing the actuation intensity value inputted by the sensor 761 and the predetermined actuation value with each other.

[0116] The actuating switch 101 is actuated in a pushing direction, so that, for example, the steering column 700 can be retracted when the actuating switch 107 is actuated once in the pushing direction, and extended when the actuating switch 101 is actuated twice in the pushing direction.

[0117] The actuation value previously set in the control device 763 is intended to prevent an error by the driver, and if the actuation switch 101 is unintentionally pressed to retract or extend the steering column 700, the drive motor 740 will not be actuated.

[0118] For example, an actuation intensity value detected by a driver's intended actuation is set as the actuation value in the control device 763 such that if the actuation switch 101 is actuated with an intensity less than the actuation intensity value detected by a driver's intended actuation, the drive motor 740 is not actuated and the steering column 700 is not retracted and extended. Accordingly, if an actuation intensity value is entered that is less than the actuation value, this is determined as a faulty actuation and the drive motor 740 is not actuated.

[0119] The operating switch 101 can be located on the steering wheel 110 for convenient operation by the driver, but is not limited to this and can be located on the door panel at the driver's seat of a vehicle, so a detailed description is not provided.

[0120] The sensor 761 detects and sends the number of times the actuating switch 101 is pressed to the control device 763, and the control device 763 determines the direction of rotation of the drive motor 740 by determining the driver's intention to retract or extend the steering column 700 based on the input number of presses.

[0121] Furthermore, the sensor 761 detects and sends the actuation intensity and the actuation time of the actuation switch 101 pressed by the driver to the control device 763, and the control device 763 actuates the drive motor 740 on the basis of the entered actuation intensity and the actuation time.

[0122] Accordingly, in this case the drive motor 740 is actuated according to the actuation time of the actuation switch 101 pressed by the driver, and the contraction or extension distance of the steering column 700 is also increased in proportion to the actuation time by the driver.

[0123] If the actuation intensity value input by the sensor 761 is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum actuation value, the control device 763 actuates the drive motor 740 such that the guide projection 722 of the inner housing 721 is moved to one end or the other end of the guide hole 728 of the control housing 729, thereby extending or retracting the steering column 700 to its maximum extent.

[0124] The maximum actuation value set in the control device 763 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, in order to extend or retract the steering column 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 740 is actuated to extend or retract the steering column 700 to its maximum extent.

[0125] If the actuation intensity value input by a sensor is less than the predetermined maximum actuation value, the control device 763, as described above, actuates the drive motor 740 according to the actuation intensity and actuation time by the driver pressing the actuation switch 101.

[0126] Accordingly, in this case the drive motor 740 is actuated according to the actuation time of the actuation switch 101 pressed by the driver, and the contraction or extension distance of the steering column 700 is also increased in proportion to the actuation time by the driver.

[0127] The steering column 700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure can further include an ignition switch 760 which sends an ignition-on state or an ignition-off state of a machine to the control device 763.

[0128] In this case, when a signal input from the ignition switch 760 changes from On to Off or from Off to On, the control device 763 actuates the drive motor 740 such that the guide projection 722 is moved to one end or the other end of the guide hole 728, thereby maximally contracting or extending the steering column 700.

[0129] This means that when the signal input from the ignition switch 760 changes from On to Off or from Off to On, it means that the driver is stopping the vehicle and does not intend to continue driving, or the driver intends to start the vehicle, so that the drive motor 740 is actuated so that the steering column 700 is pulled in or extended to its maximum extent.

[0130] If the signal input from the ignition switch 760 remains in the on state, the control device 763 keeps the drive motor 740 in a stop state, even if a push signal is input from the sensor 761.

[0131] This means that if the driver keeps the ignition switch 760 in the ON position, this means that the vehicle is being driven, so that if the steering column 700 is retracted or extended while the vehicle is being driven, a safety accident may occur.

[0132] Accordingly, if the signal input from the ignition switch 760 maintains the on state, the control device 763 does not actuate the drive motor 740, such that the steering column 700 is not retracted or extended, even if the driver operates the actuating switch 101.

[0133] Furthermore, it is possible to achieve a specific actuation state of the steering column 700 according to embodiments of the present disclosure when a vehicle is in a self-driving mode.

[0134] For example, for a self-driving mode of a vehicle, a specific self-driving mode switch may be installed such that when the driver turns on the self-driving mode switch, even if the signal input from the ignition switch 760 is in the on state, the steering column 700 is retracted into the dashboard to allow the driver to make greater use of the space around the driver's seat.

[0135] According to the Fig. 17 to 22, a steering wheel 800 according to the exemplary embodiment can include: a coupling bridge 803, which is connected to an upper steering shaft 331 and includes a first rotary gear 821 and a second rotary gear 823, which rotate together with a predetermined gap between them; an actuator 807, with both ends coupled to one end and the other end of the coupling bridge 803, and comprising a wheel body 805 with a space in it and a drive shaft 827, which is arranged on the coupling bridge 803 and is combined with a first drive gear 825, which is in engagement with the first rotary gear 821; a first handle part 809, which is configured to be inserted into the wheel body 805 and to project from it at one end of the wheel body 805 around the first drive gear 825;and a second handle part 811, which is configured to be inserted into the wheel body 805 and to protrude from the other end of the wheel body 805 around the second rotary gear 823.

[0136] First, the coupling bridge 803 is connected to the upper steering shaft 331 and contains the first rotary gear 821 and the second rotary gear 823, which rotate together with a predetermined gap between them.

[0137] The first rotary gear 821 is fitted to a rotary shaft 833 which is fixed and supported within the coupling bridge 803, and the second rotary gear 823 is also fitted to a rotary shaft 829 which is fixed and supported within the coupling bridge 803.

[0138] A first pulley 835 is fitted to the rotating shaft 833, a second pulley 837 is fitted to the rotating shaft 829, and the first pulley 835 and the second pulley 837 are connected to each other by a belt 831.

[0139] Accordingly, the first rotary gear 821 and the second rotary gear 823 are turned together, and both ends of the wheel body 805 are each coupled to one end and the other end of the coupling bridge 803.

[0140] The wheel body 805 contains a space and the wheel body can, for example, be a rounded tube containing a space (i.e., a hollow rounded tube).

[0141] The actuator 807 is located on the coupling bridge 803 and contains the drive shaft 827, on which the first drive gear 825, which is in engagement with the first rotary gear 821, is fitted.

[0142] The actuator 807 can be an electric motor with the drive shaft 827.

[0143] When the actuator 807 is actuated and the drive shaft 827 is rotated accordingly, the first drive gear 825 is rotated in the same direction as the direction of rotation of the drive shaft 827, and the first rotary gear 821, which is engaged with the first drive gear 825, is rotated in the opposite direction to the direction of rotation of the drive gear 827.

[0144] The first handle part 809 is inserted into the wheel body 805 and protrudes from it at one end of the wheel body 805 around the first drive gear 825.

[0145] The first handle part 809 is rounded with a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the wheel body 805 in order to be inserted into the wheel body 805 and to protrude from it.

[0146] Teeth for engagement with the first drive gear 825 are formed on the outer side of a surface (which is in contact with the first drive gear 825) of the first handle part 809 such that the first handle part 809 is moved by rotation of the first drive gear 825.

[0147] The second handle part 811 is inserted into the wheel body 805 and protrudes from the other end of the wheel body 805 around the second rotary gear 823.

[0148] Similar to the first handle part 809, teeth for engagement with the second rotary gear 823 are formed on the outer side of a surface (which is in contact with the second rotary gear 823) of the second handle part 811.

[0149] According to this configuration, as in Fig. Figure 19 shows that when the first drive gear 825 is rotated clockwise, the first handle part 809 is inserted into the wheel body 805, the first rotary gear 821, which is in engagement with the first drive gear 825, is rotated counterclockwise, the second rotary gear 823, which is connected to the first rotary gear 821 by the belt 831, is also rotated counterclockwise, and the second handle part 811 is inserted into the wheel body 805.

[0150] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may include a display module 813, which is arranged behind the coupling bridge 803 and is moved up and down by a driving force from the actuator 807.

[0151] The display module 813, for example, contains a first guide carrier 815 and a display panel 817. The first guide carrier 815 is moved up and down by a first driven gear 843, which is in engagement with the second drive gear 841, which is mounted on the drive shaft 827 and rotatably supported within the coupling bridge 803.

[0152] The first guide carrier 815 has an open side into which one side of the display panel 817 is fitted and fixed, and has teeth on the other side to engage with the first driven gear 843.

[0153] One side of the display panel 817 is coupled to and supported by the first guide carrier 815. The display panel 817 can be, for example, an LCD panel or an OLED panel, and various pieces of information about a vehicle can be displayed by the display panel 817.

[0154] The display module 813 contains a second guide carrier 819, which engages with a third drive gear 845, which is mounted on the rotary shaft 829 of the second rotary gear 823, and is moved up and down by a second driven gear 847, which is rotatably supported within the coupling bridge 803, and is coupled to and supports the other side of the display panel 817.

[0155] The second guide carrier 819 is formed symmetrically to the first guide carrier 815.

[0156] According to this configuration, when the actuator 807 is actuated and the first drive gear 825 is rotated clockwise (in Fig. 19), as described above, the first handle part 809 and the second handle part 811 are inserted into the wheel body 805, and the display module 813 is moved upwards (see Fig. 22).

[0157] A more detailed description of this process based on the directions of rotation of the gears (in Fig. 19) is given as follows.

[0158] First, the first drive gear 825: is rotated clockwise (the first handle part 809 is inserted into the wheel body 805) → the first rotary gear 821: is rotated counterclockwise → the second rotary gear 823: is rotated counterclockwise (the second handle part 811 is inserted into the wheel body 805) / the first drive gear 825: is rotated clockwise (the first handle part 809 is inserted into the wheel body 805) → the second drive gear 841: is rotated clockwise → the first driven gear 843: is rotated counterclockwise → the first guide carrier 815: is moved upwards.

[0159] When the second rotary gear 823 is rotated counterclockwise, the third drive gear 845, which shares the rotary shaft 829 with the second rotary gear 823, is also rotated counterclockwise, and the second guide carrier 819 is also moved upwards by the second driven gear 847.

[0160] Accordingly, when the actuator 807 is actuated and the first handle part 809 and the second handle part 811 are inserted into the wheel body 805, the display module 813 is also moved upwards. Conversely, when the actuator 807 is actuated and the first handle part 809 and the second handle part 811 protrude from the wheel body 805, the display module 813 is also moved downwards.

[0161] According to the Fig. 22 to 32, a steering wheel 900 for a vehicle according to embodiments of the present disclosure can comprise: a shaft coupler 907, which is connected to an upper steering shaft 331 of a vehicle and has a first opening 903 and a second opening 905 on both sides; a first handle part 909, which is rotatably supported on one side of the shaft coupler in order to be inserted into and led out of the shaft coupler 907; a second handle part 911, which is rotatably supported on the other side of the shaft coupler 907 in order to be inserted into and led out of the shaft coupler 907 through the second opening 905; and an actuator 913, which is arranged in the shaft coupler 907 in order to provide a rotary driving force for the first handle part 909 and the second handle part 911.

[0162] The shaft coupler 907, which is connected to the upper steering shaft 331 of a vehicle, is formed, for example, in an essentially hollow cylindrical shape, and the upper steering shaft 331 of a vehicle is connected to the underside of the shaft coupler 907.

[0163] The first opening 903 and the second opening 905 are formed on both sides of the wave coupler 907.

[0164] The first handle part 909 is rotatably supported on one side of the wave coupler 907 and is inserted into the wave coupler 907 through the first opening 909 and led out of it.

[0165] An example of the configuration of the first handle part 909 is described in detail. The first handle part 909 comprises a first rotating shaft 917a, which is rotatably supported on one side in the shaft coupler 907; a first driven gear 917, which is mounted on the first rotating shaft 917a and is in engagement with a drive gear 915, which is described below; and a first handle 919, which is combined with the first rotating shaft 917a to be inserted into and led out of the shaft coupler 907 through the first opening 903, depending on the direction of rotation of the first rotating shaft 917a.

[0166] The first rotating shaft 917a is rotatably supported on one side in the shaft coupler 907, and the first rotating shaft 917a can, although this is not shown in the drawings, be rotatably supported by a bearing which is inserted and fixed on an inner side of the shaft coupler 907.

[0167] The first driven gear 917 is mounted on the first rotating shaft 917a and is in engagement with the drive gear 915 described below.

[0168] According to this configuration, a rotary motion of the drive gear 915 is transmitted to the first driven gear 917, so that the first rotating shaft 917a is rotated.

[0169] The first handle 919 is combined with the first rotating shaft 917a, so that when the first rotating shaft 917a is rotated, the first handle 919 is rotated around the first rotating shaft 917a.

[0170] This means that the first handle 919 is inserted into the rotary coupler 907 through the first opening 903 and led out of it, depending on the direction of rotation of the first rotating shaft 917a.

[0171] The second handle part 911 is rotatably supported on the other side of the wave coupler 907 and is inserted into the wave coupler 907 through the second opening 905 and led out of it.

[0172] An example of the configuration of the second handle part 911 is described in more detail. The second handle part 911 includes a second rotating shaft 922a, which is rotatably supported on the other side of the shaft coupler 907; a second driven gear 922, which is mounted on a second rotating shaft 922a and is in mesh with a connecting gear 921 described later; and a second handle 923, which is combined with the second rotating shaft 922a to be inserted into and led out of the shaft coupler 907 through the second opening 905, depending on the direction of rotation of the second rotating shaft 922a.

[0173] The second rotating shaft 922a is rotatably supported on the other side in the shaft coupler 907, and although this is not shown in the drawings, the second rotating shaft 922a can be rotatably supported by a bearing which is inserted and fixed on the other inner side of the shaft coupler 907.

[0174] The second driven gear 922 is mounted on the second rotating shaft 922a and is in engagement with the connecting gear 921.

[0175] The connecting gear 921 is rotatably supported in the shaft coupler 907 and is in engagement with the drive gear 915.

[0176] This means that the connecting gear 921 connects the drive gear 915 and the second driven gear 922 in such a way that the direction of rotation of the second driven gear 922 becomes the same as the direction of rotation of the drive gear 915.

[0177] The second handle 923 is combined with the second rotating shaft 922a, so that when the second rotating shaft 922a is rotated, the second handle 923 is rotated around the second rotating shaft 922a.

[0178] This means that the second handle 923 is inserted into the shaft coupler 907 through the second opening 905 and led out of it, depending on the direction of rotation of the second rotating shaft 922a.

[0179] The actuator 913 is located in the wave coupler 907 and provides a rotary drive force to the first handle part 909 and the second handle part 911.

[0180] An example of actuator 19 is described in more detail. Actuator 913 includes an actuator body 927, which is coupled and fixed in the shaft coupler 907, and has a drive shaft 925, which is rotated, and a drive gear 915, which is mounted on the drive shaft 925.

[0181] The actuator body 927 is coupled to and fixed by the inner side of the wave coupler 907 and can be an electric motor with the drive shaft 925.

[0182] The drive gear 915 is mounted on the drive shaft 925 and is in engagement with the first driven gear 917 and the connecting gear 921.

[0183] According to the Fig. 23 to 27 will be when the actuator 913 is actuated and the drive gear 915 rotates in a first direction (clockwise). Fig. 27) is rotated, the first driven gear 917 in a second direction (counterclockwise in Fig. 27) rotated. Accordingly, the first handle 919 is also rotated counterclockwise around the first rotating shaft 917a, whereby the first handle 919 is led out of the shaft coupler 907 through the first opening 903.

[0184] In this process, the connecting gear 921 is rotated counterclockwise, and the second driven gear 912, which is meshed with the connecting gear 921, is rotated clockwise, so that the second handle 223 is also rotated clockwise around the second rotating shaft 922a. Accordingly, the second handle 923 is guided out of the shaft coupler 907 through the second opening 905.

[0185] That means if the drive gear 915 is in the first direction (clockwise in Fig. 27) is rotated, the first handle 919 and the second handle 923 are led out of the wave coupler 907.

[0186] This process determines the steering wheel's operating state in a driver's driving mode of a vehicle.

[0187] That is, as in Fig. Figure 31 shows that in a driver driving mode of a vehicle the steering wheel 900 of the vehicle protrudes from a dashboard 902, so that a driver can steer with the first and second grip parts 909 and 911 in his hands.

[0188] In contrast, according to the Fig. 25 to 29, when the actuator 913 is actuated and the drive gear 915 rotates in a second direction (counterclockwise in Fig. 29) is rotated, the first driven gear 917 in a first direction (clockwise in Fig. 29) rotated. Accordingly, the first handle 919 is also rotated clockwise around the first rotating shaft 917a, whereby the first handle 919 is inserted into the shaft coupler 907 through the first opening 903.

[0189] In this process, the connecting gear 921 is rotated clockwise, and the second driven gear 922, which is meshed with the connecting gear 921, is rotated counterclockwise, so that the second handle 923 is also rotated counterclockwise around the second rotating shaft 922a. Accordingly, the second handle 923 is inserted into the shaft coupler 907 through the second opening 905.

[0190] That means if the drive gear 915 is in the second direction (clockwise in Fig. 29) is turned, the first handle 919 and the second handle 923 are inserted into the wave coupler 907.

[0191] This process determines the steering wheel's operating state in a self-driving mode of a vehicle.

[0192] That is, as in Fig. Figure 32 shows that in a self-driving mode of a vehicle the steering wheel 900 of the vehicle is inserted into the dashboard 902, so that a driver can make greater use of the space around the driver's seat.

[0193] According to these embodiments of the present disclosure, a steering column protrudes from an instrument panel, and a steering wheel is positioned so that it can be operated by the driver, or the steering column is retracted into the instrument panel and the steering wheel is positioned close to the instrument panel, according to the driver's needs. Furthermore, in a driver-operated driving mode, grips protrude from the steering wheel, allowing the driver to steer the vehicle using these grips. Additionally, in a self-driving mode, grips are incorporated into the steering wheel, enabling the driver to utilize more of the space around the driver's seat.

[0194] Additionally, since terms such as "containing," "featuring," and "having" mean that one or more corresponding components may be present, unless expressly described otherwise, they may be interpreted to mean that one or more other components may be included. All terms used in a technical, scientific, or other way have the same meanings as they would be 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 context of relevant technical literature, unless expressly defined so in the present disclosure.

[0195] The foregoing embodiments have been described solely for the purpose of illustrating the technical idea of ​​this 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 this disclosure. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure are intended to illustrate the scope of the technical idea of ​​this disclosure, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited by the embodiment. The scope of this disclosure is to be interpreted on the basis of the accompanying claims in such a way that all technical ideas contained within the scope equivalent to the claims belong to this disclosure.

Claims

[1] Steering device for a vehicle which has: a steering wheel (110, 600, 900) comprising a shaft coupler (230) connected to an upper steering shaft (331), and a first (210) and a second (220) handle part coupled to the shaft coupler (230); a steering column (330) comprising the upper steering shaft (331), which steering column (330) is connected to the shaft coupler (210) of the steering wheel (110, 600, 900) in order to change the length of the steering column (330) according to driving modes; and a control device (240) configured to rotate at least one of the first handle part (210), the second handle part (220) and the wave coupler (230) depending on the driving modes; characterized by , that the steering column (330) has: a rack (521) arranged axially on a region of an outer surface of the upper steering shaft (331); and an outer column (332) with a gear coupling hole (530) corresponding to the rack (521), the gear coupling hole (530) being open to engage with a pinion (540). [2] Steering device according to claim 1, wherein the first handle part (210) includes a first connecting hole (412) and a first handle (211) and the second handle part (220) includes a second connecting hole corresponding to the first connecting hole (412) and a second handle (221). [3] Steering device according to claim 2, wherein the wave coupler (230) couples the first handle part (210) and the second handle part (220) through the first connecting hole (412) and the second connecting hole. [4] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (240) is configured to rotate, when the driving mode is a self-driving mode, at least one of the first handle part (210), the second handle part (220) and the wave coupler (230) in a first direction of rotation such that the first handle part (210) and the second handle part (220) close, the wave coupler (230) being between them, and the control device (240) is configured to rotate, when the driving mode is a driver driving mode, at least one of the first handle part (210), the second handle part (220) and the wave coupler (230) in a second direction of rotation such that the first handle part (210) and the second handle part (220) are spread apart. [5] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the steering column (330) comprises: an inner cover shaft (725) coupled to the upper steering shaft (331); an inner housing (721) coupled to the inner cover shaft (725) and having a guide projection (722) on an outer surface of the inner housing (721); a control housing (729) with a guide slot formed to receive the guide projection (722) of the inner housing (721); and a cover housing (723) which is attached to the vehicle, wherein the control housing (729) is rotatably arranged on the cover housing (723). [6] Steering device according to claim 5, further comprising: a drive motor (740) configured to rotate the control housing (729) coupled to the cover housing (723), a first gear (730) which is rotatably coupled to the control housing (729), and a second gear (741) which is arranged or formed on a shaft of the drive motor (740) and is in engagement with the first gear (730). [7] Steering device according to one of claims 5 and 6, further comprising a connecting slot (726) formed in the control housing (729) and connected to the guide slot. [8] Steering device according to one of claims 5 to 7, wherein one is formed by a fixing projection (725b) and a fixing groove (727a) on / in the inner cover shaft (725) and the other is formed by the fixing projection (725b) and the fixing groove (727a) on / in the upper steering shaft (331). [9] Steering device according to one of claims 5 to 8, further comprising an outer cover shaft (715) with an end that is arranged between the inner cover shaft (725) and the inner housing (721) such that the inner cover shaft (725) and the inner housing (721) are axially slidable with respect to the outer cover shaft (715). [10] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the steering wheel comprises (110, 600, 900): a first (821) and a second (823) rotating gear, which are arranged at a distance from each other in the shaft coupler (230) and rotate together; and a wheel body (805) which is coupled to the wave coupler (230) and contains a space; an actuator (807) which is arranged on the shaft coupler (230) and has a drive shaft (827) which is associated with the first drive gear (825) which engages with the first rotary gear (821), wherein the first handle part (809) is configured to be inserted into or led out of the wheel body (805) by the first drive gear (825), and the second handle part (811) is configured to be inserted into or led out of the wheel body (805) by the second rotary gear (823). [11] Steering device according to claim 10, further comprising a display module (813) which is arranged behind a coupling bridge (803) and is configured to be movable up and down by the driving force of the actuator (807). [12] Steering device according to claim 11, wherein the display module comprises: a first guide carrier (815) configured by a first driven gear (843) engaged with the second drive gear (841) coupled to the drive shaft (827), to be movable up and down, wherein the first guide carrier is rotatably supported within the wave coupler (230); and a display panel (817) coupled to the first guide carrier (815). [13] Steering device according to claim 12, wherein the display module (813) has a second guide carrier (819) which engages with a third drive gear (845) which is coupled to a rotating shaft (829) of the second rotating gear (823), configured to be moved up and down by a second driven gear which is rotatably supported within the shaft coupler (230), and is coupled to the display panel (817). [14] Steering device according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the first rotary gear (821) and the second rotary gear (823) are connected by a belt (831). [15] Steering device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the steering wheel comprises (110, 600, 900): a first (903) and a second (905) opening formed in the wave coupler (907); and an actuator (913) arranged in the wave coupler (907) and is configured to supply a rotary drive force to the first (909) and the second (911) handle part, wherein the first handle part (909) is rotatably supported in the wave coupler (907) in order to be inserted into the wave coupler (907) through the first opening (903) and led out of it, and the second handle part (911) is rotatably supported in the wave coupler (907) in order to be inserted into the wave coupler (907) through the second opening (905) and led out of it. [16] Steering device according to claim 15, wherein the actuator comprises: an actuator body (927) which is fixed in the shaft coupler (907) and has a drive shaft (925) which is configured to be rotatable; and a drive gear (915) that is coupled to the drive shaft (925). [17] Steering device according to claim 16, wherein the first handle part (909) comprises: a first rotating shaft (917a) which is rotatably arranged in the shaft coupler (907); a first driven gear (917) arranged on the first rotating shaft (917a) and meshing with the drive gear (915); and a first handle (919) which is movably coupled to the first rotating shaft (917a) such that the first handle (919) is inserted into or led out of the shaft coupler (907) through the first opening (903) depending on the rotation of the first rotating shaft (917a). [18] Steering device according to one of claims 16 and 17, further comprising at least one connecting gear (911) rotatably arranged in the shaft coupler (907) and engaging with the drive gear (915). [19] Steering device according to claim 18, wherein the second handle part (911) comprises: a second rotating shaft (922a) which is rotatably supported in the shaft coupler (907); a second driven gear (922) arranged on the second rotating shaft (922a) and meshing with the at least one connecting gear (921); and a second handle (923) which is movably coupled to the second rotating shaft (922a) such that the second handle (923) can be inserted into or led out of the shaft coupler (907) through the second opening (905) depending on the rotation of the second rotating shaft (922a).

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