Steering column with universal joint for motor vehicles
The steering column design with a universal joint and coupling element addresses the challenges of cost, compactness, and safety in micromobility vehicles by optimizing mass and simplicity, ensuring robustness and ease of assembly.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- STELLANTIS AUTO SAS
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-29
AI Technical Summary
Existing steering column universal joints in motor vehicles face challenges in optimizing cost, compactness, mass, reliability, and safety while meeting the constraints of reduced vehicle size and weight, particularly in micromobility vehicles.
A steering column design featuring a universal joint with connecting rods linked by a coupling element that transmits torque, allowing for weight reduction and robust assembly, with a configuration that includes a first and second connecting rod rotatably connected along perpendicular axes, and a coupling element that tilts these rods relative to the segments to transmit torque.
The design achieves a compact, reliable, and safe steering column that optimizes mass and simplicity, enhancing safety by reducing the risk of longitudinal force transmission during impacts, while maintaining ease of assembly and suitability for compact vehicles.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Steering column with universal joint for motor vehicle
[0001] The invention relates to the adjustment of a steering column for a motor vehicle. More specifically, the invention relates to a steering column with swivel joints for a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.
[0002] A steering column connects a steering wheel to a steering rack of a motor vehicle. The steering column generally has several segments inclined relative to each other. Thus, these segments have so-called non-coaxial configurations. These segments are connected by universal joints. Due to their geometries, when the steering wheel is rotated, the universal joints generate variations in angular positions between successive segments.
[0003] In order to operate in urban areas, vehicle size is reduced to make them more compact. This reduction in dimensions is accompanied by a reduction in weight, which in turn reduces the primary energy required to power the vehicle. At the same time, such vehicles must meet reliability and simplification requirements for their mechanisms. This constraint applies particularly to steering systems. Finally, cost constraints necessitate certain optimizations in the steering systems.
[0004] Document FR3128259A1 describes a universal joint for a steering column in a motor vehicle. The universal joint comprises: a first sleeve having a first connecting device, a second connecting device arranged to be integral with one end of a first external shaft. The first connecting device forms, with said second connecting device, a first pivot joint. An internal shaft has a distal end provided with a third connecting device. A fourth connecting device is integral with a second external shaft. The third connecting device forms, with said fourth connecting device, a second pivot joint. A portion of said internal shaft is positioned in said first sleeve. The internal shaft and the first sleeve together form a sliding joint. Although this type of universal joint allows for a reduction in size and cost, there is a need to reduce them further.
[0005] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to optimize the cost and compactness of a steering column universal joint of a motor vehicle. The invention also aims to optimize the cost, compactness, mass, reliability, and safety of a universal joint for the steering column of a motor vehicle.
[0006] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a steering column for a motor vehicle, the steering column comprising a first segment adapted to rotate about a first axis of rotation; a second segment adapted to rotate about a second axis of rotation inclined with respect to the first axis of rotation; a universal joint connecting the first segment to the second segment; remarkable in that the universal joint comprises a first connecting rod rotatably connected with respect to the first segment along a third axis of rotation perpendicular to the first axis of rotation; a second connecting rod rotatably connected with respect to the second segment along a fourth axis of rotation perpendicular to the second axis of rotation; a coupling element pivotally connected to the first connecting rod along a first axis of pivot, and pivotally connected to the second connecting rod along a second axis of pivot;In the steering column mounting configuration in the motor vehicle, the coupling element is configured to tilt the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod relative to the first and second segments respectively, in order to transmit torque between the first and second segments.
[0007] The invention provides a universal joint with connecting rods linked by a coupling element that transmits motion. This configuration allows for weight reduction while offering a robust solution. The assembly formed by the connecting rods and the coupling element remains simple, as do the connections between them. Furthermore, these elements are easy to assemble. This steering column is particularly well-suited to micromobility vehicles or compact vehicles.
[0008] Preferably, the coupling element comprises a first branch joined to the first connecting rod, a second branch joined to the second connecting rod, and a junction connecting the first branch to the second branch.
[0009] Preferably, the junction extends along the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis.
[0010] Preferably, the junction is between the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod.
[0011] Preferably, the junction is perpendicular to the first branch and to the second branch.
[0012] Preferably, the first connecting rod comprises an end opposite the third axis of rotation, the first branch being connected to said opposite end.
[0013] Preferably, the second pivot axis is parallel to the first pivot axis.
[0014] Preferably, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod extend in opposite directions from the first segment and the second segment, respectively.
[0015] Preferably, the steering column has a separation between the first segment and the second segment, the coupling element passing through said separation.
[0016] Preferably, the first connecting rod is at a distance from the second segment.
[0017] Preferably, the first segment comprises a fork with two arms, the first connecting rod being pivotally mounted between the two arms, the coupling element being at a distance from said two arms.
[0018] Preferably, the first connecting rod comprises a first pivot joint connected to the coupling element and pivoting about the first pivot axis; a second pivot joint connected to the first segment and pivoting about the third axis of rotation.
[0019] Preferably, the second connecting rod is identical to the first connecting rod.
[0020] Preferably, the first segment is at a distance from the second segment.
[0021] Preferably, the first connecting rod is at a distance from the second connecting rod.
[0022] Preferably, the coupling element is symmetric.
[0023] Preferably, the coupling element is in the extension of the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation.
[0024] Preferably, the first pivot axis is perpendicular to the third rotation axis.
[0025] Preferably, the second pivot axis is perpendicular to the fourth rotation axis.
[0026] Preferably, each axis of rotation is formed by a pivot joint.
[0027] Preferably, each pivot axis is formed by a pivot joint.
[0028] Preferably, the first branch is at a distance from both arms.
[0029] Preferably, the first branch and the second branch comprise equal lengths.
[0030] Preferably, the junction is straight.
[0031] Preferably, the first branch and the second branch are parallel.
[0032] Preferably, in the mounting configuration of the steering column in the motor vehicle, the first arm is at a distance from the first axis of rotation.
[0033] Preferably, the cardan joint is a first cardan joint, the steering column further includes a third segment capable of rotating about a fifth axis of rotation inclined relative to the second axis of rotation, a second cardan joint identical to the first cardan joint and connecting the second segment to the third segment.
[0034] According to another aspect, the invention provides a steering column for a motor vehicle, the steering column comprising a first segment adapted to rotate about a first axis of rotation; a second segment adapted to rotate about a a second axis of rotation inclined relative to the first axis of rotation; a universal joint connecting the first segment to the second segment; notable in that the universal joint comprises a first connecting rod rotatably connected relative to the first segment along a third axis of rotation; a second connecting rod rotatably connected relative to the second segment along a fourth axis of rotation; a linking piece pivotally connected to the first connecting rod along a first pivoting axis perpendicular to the third axis of rotation, and pivotally connected to the second connecting rod along a second pivoting axis perpendicular to the fourth axis of rotation; in the steering column mounting configuration in the motor vehicle, the linking piece is configured to inclined the first and second connecting rods relative to the first and second segments respectively;in order to transmit torque between the first segment and the second segment. Such a steering column optimizes mass and simplicity.
[0035] According to another aspect, the invention provides a steering column for a motor vehicle, the steering column comprising a first segment adapted to rotate about a first axis of rotation; a second segment adapted to rotate about a second axis of rotation inclined relative to the first axis of rotation; a universal joint connecting the first segment to the second segment; notable in that the universal joint comprises a first connecting rod connected to the first segment by a second pivot joint; a second connecting rod connected to the second segment by a third pivot joint; a connecting piece connected to the first connecting rod by a first pivot joint, and connected to the second connecting rod by a fourth pivot joint; in the mounting configuration of the steering column in the motor vehicle, the connecting piece is configured to inclined the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod relative to the first segment and the second segment respectively;in order to transmit torque between the first segment and the second segment. This type of steering column optimizes mass and costs.
[0036] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a steering system comprising a rack, a steering column coupled to the rack; remarkable in that the steering column conforms to the invention.
[0037] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle comprising a steering system with a steering column, a steering wheel mounted on the steering column, notable in that the steering column conforms to the invention.
[0038] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises an external width of no more than 1.39 m.
[0039] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises a length of at most 2.45 m.
[0040] Preferably, the second axis of rotation is inclined relative to the first axis of rotation by an angle of inclination between 5° and 90°.
[0041] Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 20° and 45°.
[0042] Each feature introduced by the expression "preferably" given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all other aspects of the invention.
[0043] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear upon reading the following description, given with reference to the attached figures listed below.
[0044] Fig. 1 is a front view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.
[0045] Figure 2 shows a profile view of a motor vehicle steering system according to the invention.
[0046] Fig. 3 is a flat view of a universal joint of a steering column of a motor vehicle according to the invention.
[0047] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of a universal joint of a steering column of a motor vehicle according to the invention.
[0048] In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it permits the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle or the universal joint to which it relates. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of". The terms "external" and "internal" shall respectively designate what is oriented towards the outside of the vehicle and towards the inside of the vehicle.
[0049] In this description, the terms "longitudinal," "longitudinally," "transverse," and "transversely" are used with respect to the vehicle's frame of reference in the mounting configuration. "Longitudinal" refers to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. "Transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. "Front" refers to the vehicle's principal direction of travel. "Rear" refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle.
[0050] The X-axis represents the longitudinal direction, the Y-axis represents the transverse direction, and the Z-axis represents the vertical direction of the motor vehicle. These three axes define a right-handed trihedron whose orientation is preserved through Figures 1 and 2.
[0051] In this description, the ranges of values include the bounds that delimit them.
[0052] In the present description, the equality between the values is not to be understood in the strict sense insofar as each equality allows a variation of at most 10%, preferably at most 5%, more preferably at most 2%, between these values.
[0053] In this description, the terms "vertical", "perpendicular", and "horizontal" are not to be understood in their strict sense. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, and even more preferably at most 2°; with respect to the strict meaning of these terms.
[0054] Pivot joints are joints with one degree of freedom. Each allows rotation about a single axis of rotation. It is understood that the mechanical clearances allow for additional movements.
[0055] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the mounting configuration of the steering column, unless otherwise explicitly stated.
[0056] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.
[0057] Figure 1 represents a motor vehicle 10, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle 10 comprises energy storage means and at least one motor (not shown) adapted to drive said motor vehicle 10.
[0058] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12. The structure 12 forms an outer body, or the main frame of the motor vehicle. The structure 12 delineates different compartments of the motor vehicle 10, including the passenger compartment, the cargo area, and the engine compartment (not shown). The structure 12 may be formed from an assembly of stamped and welded sheet metal parts.
[0059] The structure 12 connects various parts of the motor vehicle 10, including the openings. The structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain and braking systems. The motor vehicle 10 includes steering wheels 14 connected to the structure 12. The steering wheels 14 pivot on their own axis to steer the motor vehicle 10. The steering wheels 14 are front wheels. They orient themselves along vertical pivot axes in addition to rotating on horizontal bearings. The steering wheels 14 have variable steering angles.
[0060] The motor vehicle 10 also includes a steering system 16. The steering system 16 includes a steering column 18. The steering column 18 is segmented. The steering system 16 includes a steering wheel 20. The steering wheel 20 forms a control interface for the driver. The steering wheel 20 includes a ring or side handles. The steering column 18 is driven in rotation via the steering wheel 20.
[0061] The steering system 16 includes a rack 22. The rack 22 is generally a connecting rod. The rack 22 connects the steering wheels 14. It is actuated via the steering column 18. Thus, the steering command is communicated from the steering wheel 20 to the steering wheels 14. As an option, the steering system 16 includes an electric actuator providing physical assistance to the driver.
[0062] The steering system 16 further includes a drive device 24 for the rack 22 via the steering column 18. The drive device 22 allows the transverse position of the rack 22 to be indexed according to the angular position of the steering column 18. The drive device 24 converts a rotational movement imposed by the driver into a translational movement.
[0063] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the motor vehicle 10 is a compact vehicle, also known as an urban vehicle. It falls into the category of "micromobility". The motor vehicle 10 has an external width 26 of no more than 1.39 m and / or a length of no more than 2.45 m. The external width 26 and the length are maximum dimensions. The external width 26 adds a compactness constraint to the steering system 16, in particular to the steering column 18 and each of its components.
[0064] The motor vehicle 10 has a mass of at most 450 kg. It is preferably an electric vehicle, with an electric battery powering electric motors capable of propelling the motor vehicle.
[0065] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle, for example a one-seater or two-seater motor vehicle. The two seats are side by side, or one in front of the other.
[0066] Figure 2 shows a steering column 18 of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to Figure 1.
[0067] The steering column 18 is driven in rotation via the steering wheel 20. The steering column 18 comprises at least two segments 28 connected by a universal joint 30. The steering column 18 preferably has three segments 28 connected by two universal joints 30. The segments 28 comprise a first segment 32, a second segment 34, and a third segment 36. They are respectively a rear segment, a central segment, and a front segment. They are respectively coupled by a first universal joint and a second universal joint. The third segment 36 is an output segment. It is longitudinally opposite the driver.
[0068] The first segment 32 is free to rotate about a first axis of rotation 38, the second segment 34 is free to rotate about a second axis of rotation 40. The The first axis of rotation 38 and the second axis of rotation 40 are concurrent. They intersect. The segments are capable of rotating at least one turn in each direction.
[0069] According to one embodiment, the second segment is directly coupled to the rack 22 via the drive device 24. The first segment and the second segment are then an input segment and an output segment.
[0070] It is understood that in the mounting configuration of the steering column in the motor vehicle, the first axis of rotation 38 is inclined relative to the second axis of rotation 40 by an angle of inclination 42. The angle of inclination 42 is then between 5° and 90°. The angle of inclination 42 is preferably between 10° and 60°. The angle of inclination 42 is more preferably between 20° and 60°. The value of the angle of inclination optimizes the compactness and the stresses in the first universal joint.
[0071] The second universal joint is similar, preferably identical, to the first universal joint. The characteristics described in relation to the first universal joint also apply to the second. In the following description, the first universal joint will be referred to as the "universal joint".
[0072] Figure 3 shows a universal joint 30 of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2.
[0073] The universal joint 30 rotationally connects the first segment 32 to the second segment 34, despite their inclination. They form a bend in the steering column. In the present embodiment, the segments are inclined at 90°. However, they can be inclined at any other angle.
[0074] The universal joint 30 includes a first connecting rod 44 rotatably connected with respect to the first segment 32 along a third axis of rotation 46. The third axis of rotation 46 is perpendicular to the first axis of rotation 38. The universal joint 30 also includes a second connecting rod 48 rotatably connected with respect to the second segment 34 along a fourth axis of rotation 50. The fourth axis of rotation 50 is perpendicular to the second axis of rotation 40. The first connecting rod 44 and the second connecting rod 48 extend in opposite directions from the first segment 32 and the second segment 34, respectively. The first connecting rod 44 is at a distance from the second segment 34. Similarly, the second connecting rod 48 is at a distance from the first segment 32. Perpendicular means an inclination of one-quarter turn between the axes.
[0075] Each connecting rod forms an elongated part that is articulated at its ends with respect to two moving parts, and which transmits motion from one to the other. It is a rigid rod, articulated at its ends. It is designed to transmit motion between two moving parts.
[0076] The universal joint 30 further comprises a coupling element 52. The coupling element 52 enables mechanical coupling. It is pivotally connected to the first connecting rod 44 along a first pivot axis 54. The coupling element 52 is pivotally connected to the second connecting rod 48 along a second pivot axis 56. The coupling element 52 is preferably symmetrical. The second pivot axis 56 is parallel to the first pivot axis 54. This parallelism contributes to compactness.
[0077] In the steering column mounting configuration in the motor vehicle, the coupling element 52 is configured to tilt the first connecting rod 44 relative to the first segment 32, and to tilt the second connecting rod 48 relative to the second segment 34. This allows torque to be transmitted between the first segment 32 and the second segment 34. This feature prevents the first axis of rotation 38 from being aligned with the first pivot axis 54; and the second axis of rotation 40 from being aligned with the second pivot axis 56. Indeed, in these configurations, a rotation of the first axis of rotation 38 does not allow a rotation of the coupling element 52.
[0078] The coupling element 52 both separates and connects the first connecting rod 44 to the second connecting rod 48. It forms a drive component between the first segment 32 and the second segment 34. It forms an intermediate link. This feature contributes to safety because, in the event of a frontal impact, the steering column is less likely to transmit a longitudinal force from one segment to the other. Consequently, the risk of the steering column moving backward toward the driver is reduced.
[0079] The coupling element 52 comprises a first branch 58 joined to the first connecting rod 44, a second branch 60 joined to the second connecting rod 48. The second branch 60 extends in a direction opposite to the first branch 58.
[0080] The coupling element 52 has a junction 62. The junction 62 connects the first leg 58 to the second leg 60. The junction 62 forms a physical connection. It transmits force and motion between the connecting rods. The junction 62 extends along the first pivot axis 54 and the second pivot axis 56. The junction 62 is located between the first connecting rod 44 and the second connecting rod 48. It is straight. The junction 62 is perpendicular to the first leg 58 and the second leg 60. This aspect optimizes compactness and rigidity. The presence of the junction 62 adds elasticity to the coupling element 52. Thus, the invention allows for coupling with correction of angular misalignment and along the axes of rotation of the segments.
[0081] The first connecting rod 44 includes an end 64 opposite the third axis of rotation 46. The opposite end 64 is a termination of the first connecting rod 44. The opposite end 64 has a facet facing away from the third axis of rotation. rotation 46. The first branch 58 is connected to the opposite end 64. The first branch 58 is against the opposite end 64.
[0082] The steering column has a separation 66 between the first segment 32 and the second segment 34. The separation 66 forms a recess. It is in line with the first axis of rotation 38 and the second axis of rotation 40. The coupling element 52 passes through the separation 66. The separation 66 contributes to safety.
[0083] The axes of rotation and the axes of pivoting are geometric axes.
[0084] Figure 4 shows a universal joint 30 of a motor vehicle, according to a method of realization of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of figures 1 to 3.
[0085] The first connecting rod 44 comprises a first pivot joint 70 connected to the coupling element 52 and pivoting about the first pivot axis 54; a second pivot joint 72 connected to the first segment 32 and pivoting about the third axis of rotation 46. The first axis of rotation 38, the third axis of rotation 46, and the first pivot axis 54 are concurrent. They intersect at a single point. They are perpendicular to each other. Thus, the steering column optimizes compactness and mechanical stresses.
[0086] The second connecting rod 48 is preferably identical to the first connecting rod 44. In particular, it includes pivot joints identical to those of the first connecting rod 44. It includes a third pivot joint connected to the second segment 34, and a fourth pivot joint connected to the coupling element 52.
[0087] The first segment 32 comprises a fork 74 with two arms 76. The two arms 76 are spaced apart along the third axis of rotation 46. The first connecting rod 44 is mounted between the two arms 76. It is pivotally mounted there. The arms 76 grip and hold the first connecting rod 44, which facilitates torque transmission. The coupling element 52 is located at a distance from said two arms 76. The fork 74 forms one end of the first segment 32. The second segment 34 comprises a fork identical or similar to its end, opposite the first segment 32.
[0088] The separation 66 extends along the first axis of rotation 38 and the second axis of rotation 40. The separation 66 is between the fork 74 of the first segment 32 and the fork of the second segment 34.
[0089] The coupling element 52 comprises a metallic material. It comprises steel or an aluminum alloy. Other materials are also possible. Thus, the coupling element 52 retains flexibility while providing mechanical strength to transmit a mechanical torque between the segments. According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the coupling element comprises a plastic material.
[0090] The coupling element 52 is in line with the first axis of rotation 38 and the second axis of rotation 40. The first pivot axis 54 is perpendicular to the third axis of rotation 46. Similarly, the second pivot axis 56 is perpendicular to the fourth axis of rotation 50.
[0091] The coupling element 52 has a bent ribbon shape. It has two bends. It has a constant thickness. The thickness is between 1.00 mm and 5.00 mm. This thickness range optimizes mass and flexibility.
[0092] The first branch 58 and the second branch 60 are of equal length. The first branch 58 and the second branch 60 are parallel. The first branch 58 is at a distance from both arms 76.
[0093] The first arm 58 is at a distance from the first axis of rotation 38. The first segment 32 is at a distance from the second segment 34. The first connecting rod 44 is at a distance from the second connecting rod 48. Each connecting rod forms a rigid body. Its apex receives the first pivot joint 70. It is traversed by the second pivot joint. Each pivot joint is a mechanical joint with a single degree of freedom.
[0094] Preferably, the cardan joint 30 is a first cardan joint, the steering column further includes a third segment capable of rotating about a fifth axis of rotation inclined relative to the second axis of rotation, a second cardan joint identical to the first cardan joint and connecting the second segment 34 to the third segment.
[0095] According to an alternative or option of the invention, the first connecting rod is connected to the coupling element via a ball joint.
[0096] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the first branch and the second branch comprise arcs directly connected to each other. The junction is a point of contact between the arcs.
[0097] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.
[0098] Figures 3 and 4 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.
Claims
Demands
1. Steering column (18) for a motor vehicle (10), the steering column (18) comprising a first segment (32) capable of rotating about a first axis of rotation (38); a second segment (34) capable of rotating about a second axis of rotation (40) inclined with respect to the first axis of rotation (38); a universal joint (30) connecting the first segment (32) to the second segment (34); characterized in that the universal joint (30) comprises a first connecting rod (44) rotatably connected with respect to the first segment (32) along a third axis of rotation (46) perpendicular to the first axis of rotation (38); a second connecting rod (48) rotatably connected with respect to the second segment (34) along a fourth axis of rotation (50) perpendicular to the second axis of rotation (40);a coupling element (52) pivotally connected to the first connecting rod (44) along a first pivot axis (54), and pivotally connected to the second connecting rod (48) along a second pivot axis (56); in the mounting configuration of the steering column (18) in the motor vehicle (10), the coupling element (52) is configured to tilt the first connecting rod (44) and the second connecting rod (48) relative to the first segment (32) and the second segment (34) respectively, in order to transmit a torque between the first segment (32) and the second segment (34).
2. Steering column (18) according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling element (52) comprises a first arm (58) joined to the first connecting rod (44), a second arm (60) joined to the second connecting rod (48), a junction (62) connecting the first arm (58) to the second arm (60); preferably, the junction (62) extends along the first pivot axis (54) and the second pivot axis (56).
3. Steering column (18) according to claim 2, characterized in that the junction (62) is between the first connecting rod (44) and the second connecting rod (48) and / or the junction (62) is perpendicular to the first branch (58) and to the second branch (60).
4. Steering column (18) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that the first connecting rod (44) comprises an end opposite (64) to the third axis of rotation (46), the first branch (58) being connected to said opposite end (64).
5. Steering column (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the second pivot axis (56) is parallel to the first pivot axis (54).
6. Steering column (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first connecting rod (44) and the second connecting rod (48) extend in opposite directions from the first segment (32) and the second segment (34), respectively.
7. Steering column (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the steering column (18) has a separation (66) between the first segment (32) and the second segment (34), the coupling element (52) passing through said separation (66); preferably, the first connecting rod (44) is at a distance from the second segment (34).
8. Steering column (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the first segment (32) comprises a fork (74) with two arms (76), the first connecting rod (44) being pivotally mounted between the two arms (76), the coupling element (52) being at a distance from said two arms (76).
9. Steering column (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the first connecting rod (44) comprises a first pivot joint (70) connected to the coupling element (52) and pivoting about the first pivot axis (54); a second pivot joint (72) connected to the first segment (32) and pivoting about the third axis of rotation (46); preferably, the second connecting rod (48) is identical to the first connecting rod (44).
10. Motor vehicle (10) comprising a steering system (16) with a steering column (18), a steering wheel (20) mounted on the steering column (18), characterized in that the steering column (18) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 9; preferably, the motor vehicle (10) comprises an external width (26) of at most 1.39 m and / or a length of at most 2.45 m.