Steering device for actively controlling an automobile by a driver

Abstract

To improve degree of freedom of a seat and movement of a driver of an automobile during (complete) automatic driving while maintaining safety.SOLUTION: A steering apparatus includes: a steering body 3 having an axis of rotation 4, the steering body comprising a steering wheel handle 5 and a steering wheel canister 6, the steering wheel handle and the steering wheel canister being rotatably connected to each other about the axis of rotation; and an airbag module 7 disposed within the steering wheel canister, where at least a portion of the steering body has an active position 8 and a stowed position 9, and is movable between these positions, and where in the active position, the steering body is rotatable about an axis of rotation for active control of an associated motor vehicle, and in particular the airbag module is held in the steering wheel canister in a functionally identical orientation irrespective of the position of the steering body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a steering device for actively controlling an automobile that can at least semi-automatically drive. The present invention further relates to such an automobile.

Background Art

[0002] Automated driving of automobiles is becoming feasible due to the improvement of the computing power of automobiles and the increase in mobile data transmission speed. Driving is generally divided into manual driving, semi-automated driving, and (fully) automated driving. In the case of manual driving or semi-automated driving (e.g., using an assistance system), the driver needs to continue to intervene while sitting in the cockpit, that is, actively control the automobile as necessary. Manual driving, semi-automated driving, and (fully) automated driving can be implemented in the same automobile depending on the laws and / or devices of the automobile. For example, movement on a highway can be executed in (fully) automated driving, but movement in an urban area still requires the driver to actively control the automobile.

[0003] In an actively controlled automobile, accordingly, the steering body of the steering device of the automobile needs to protrude into the cockpit towards the driver in order to receive a steering command for actively controlling the automobile. On the other hand, in the (fully) automated driving of a vehicle, in order to ensure the highest possible level of comfort for the driver in the form of freedom of seat and movement, a cockpit area with as much freedom as possible is advantageous. Therefore, an improvement in the spatial comfort inside the automobile should be ensured for the driver.

[0004] However, at the same time, the driver's safety must be ensured by means such as installing an airbag. This is regardless of whether the steering body of the steering device is disposed at a position for active control in, for example, urban traffic, or whether the moved steering body is disposed in an automatic driving situation, and it does not play a role in any of the (fully) automatic driving, manual driving, or semi-automatic driving of the vehicle. Furthermore, the steering body of the steering device should be easily and reliably movable between the position for active control and the position for automatic driving, and as a result, it is necessary for the driver of the automobile to be able to rapidly and actively intervene in the current driving situation.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the problem addressed by the present invention is to at least partially overcome the known disadvantages from the prior art. The features according to the present invention result from the independent claims, and their advantageous configurations are disclosed in the dependent claims. The features of the claims may be combined in any technically meaningful way, and the features of the following description as well as the drawings including the supplementary configurations of the present invention can be used for this purpose.

[0006] The present invention relates to a steering device for actively controlling an automobile that is at least semi-automatically driven, and at least includes - a steering body having a rotation axis, wherein the steering body includes a steering wheel handle and a steering wheel canister, and the steering wheel handle and the steering wheel canister are rotatably connected to each other around the rotation axis, the steering body, - including components of an airbag module disposed within the steering wheel canister, at least a part of the steering body has an active position and a storage position, and is movable between these positions, in the active position, the steering body is rotatable around the rotation axis for active control of the associated automobile.

[0007] The steering device is characterized in particular by the fact that the airbag module is held in the steering wheel canister in a functionally identical orientation regardless of the position of the steering body.

[0008] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, when axial, radial, orbital directions, and corresponding terms are used, the following refers to the aforementioned axis of rotation. The sequential numbers used above and below are only used for the purpose of making clear distinctions and do not reflect the order or ranking of the specified components unless explicitly stated otherwise. Ordinal numbers greater than 1 do not require that such components must necessarily exist.

[0009] In this specification, the steering device is arranged so that the driving operation of the driver can be transmitted to the vehicle and the control of the vehicle that is at least semi-automatically driven can be manually executed. Of course, the term "active" is not used to mean that it is only executed by a mounted computer and / or an automatic method, but rather is used to mean manual control executed by the driver of the vehicle. However, it is not excluded that the driver is assisted by an assistance system such as a lane keeping assistance control device or a power steering system.

[0010] To transmit the steering operation, the steering device includes a steering body rotatably arranged around an axis of rotation. Next, the steering body includes a steering wheel handle and a steering wheel canister. The steering wheel handle and the steering wheel canister are connected to each other so that they receive the driver's steering operation and rotate around the axis of rotation accordingly.

[0011] To protect the driver during a collision event, an airbag module is also disposed within the steering wheel canister. Preferably, the airbag module used is an airbag module well-known to those skilled in the art in industrial practice, which is adapted to inflate the airbag with gas within a few milliseconds when a collision event occurs and reduce the impact force.

[0012] It is proposed that at least a part of the steering body be movable between two positions in order to move the steering body between a manual or semi-automatic driving with active control by the driver and a (fully) automatic driving, i.e., a driving situation without driver intervention. The steering body is disposed in an active position such that the vehicle can be actively controlled by the driver (preferably ergonomically) via the steering device. The steering body is disposed in a storage position such that a cockpit area with as much freedom as possible can be generated. When the steering body is disposed in the storage position, a high level of comfort is ensured for the driver in the form of seat and freedom of movement.

[0013] Switching between one driving mode and another, i.e., between (fully) automatic driving and manual or semi-automatic driving, is feasible under the guidance of the driver and / or commands from the vehicle. For example, regulatory requirements in some areas, such as within some cities, require the steering body to be disposed in the active position for driving the vehicle. When the vehicle is driving on a highway in (fully) automatic driving mode and is about to exit the highway within a few minutes, the steering body is disposed in the retracted position, and the vehicle indicates, for example, a timely end of (fully) automatic driving. As a result, the driver must actively control the vehicle when exiting the highway. Therefore, the driver can move the steering body from the retracted position to the active position before the vehicle exits the highway and enters urban traffic. Alternatively, the steering body can be automatically moved from the vehicle to the active position or the vehicle's power can be cut off to prevent the vehicle from being driven without control or with illegal control.

[0014] In the active position, the steering body is arranged to be rotatably supported around the axis of rotation. Preferably, the steering device is configured such that the vehicle can only be manually controlled within the active position. When the steering body is disposed outside the active position, the steering body is not configured to actively control the vehicle, and as a result, unwanted control of the vehicle is excluded.

[0015] Here, regardless of the position of the steering body, the airbag module has a functionally identical orientation, i.e., it is proposed that the airbag module be correctly aligned during a collision event in order to reduce the impact on the driver. In this case, the airbag module is held within the steering wheel canister such that the airbag can be correctly inflated during a collision event. In this context, correct means that the airbag meets the legal requirements regarding the safety of the driver, regardless of the position of the steering body or the manual, semi-automatic, or (fully) automatic driving of the motor vehicle. Thus, at any point during the driving of the motor vehicle, a functionally identical use of the airbag module can be achieved. Preferably, the airbag module is directed towards the same body area of the driver, regardless of the position of the steering body. For example, the steering wheel canister includes a rigidly disposed portion (the canister portion) in which the airbag module is disposed. The rigid canister portion is preferably not rotatable relative to the rest of the cockpit or is rotatable at a slight angle, for example, up to a maximum of 5 degrees in both directions. However, in one embodiment, the rigid canister portion of the steering wheel canister is translatable along the axis of rotation.

[0016] It should be noted that the steering wheel canister is mechanically stable such that the steering wheel canister having the airbag module remains correctly oriented towards the driver during a collision event. For example, the steering wheel canister is attached to a mechanically formed steering column or (in a steering device without a steering column, such as steer-by-wire) to a corresponding reinforcing structure, for example, within the dashboard of the motor vehicle.

[0017] The device according to the present invention provides the advantage that in the stowed position, a comfortable space is created within the cockpit, and in the active position, manual and active control of the vehicle is possible. Furthermore, at both positions, a high level of safety for the driver is ensured by a functionally capable and properly aligned airbag module.

[0018] Rotation The shaft is not necessarily a physically formed steering shaft. However, in one exemplary embodiment, Rotation the shaft is a physically configured steering shaft for mechanically transmitting steering commands to control the vehicle. In some embodiments, the transmission of the steering commands occurs by a non-mechanical method, or a method that is not exclusively mechanical, for example, by an electrical signal, and as a result, a physically formed steering shaft is not required.

[0019] In one embodiment, the steering shaft is a conventionally arranged steering column having a steering gear, and the traveling direction of the vehicle can be realized by the steering gear. The steering gear converts the steering operation of the steering body or the steering wheel handle into a sliding operation on the tie rod of the vehicle, and as a result, the vehicle wheels rotate in a steering direction different from the current main traveling direction of the vehicle.

[0020] In an alternative embodiment, the steering shaft is composed of a servo motor, and as a result, the servo motor assists the driver's control in that the force applied by the driver for control can be transmitted more strongly to the vehicle wheels via a hydraulic system and / or an electric motor. In this embodiment, the transmission of the steering operation is not directly performed by a power-receiving steering column or a steering gear, but rather by a torque in the same direction as the steering operation, so that less force needs to be applied to the steering body or the steering wheel handle to change the steering direction.

[0021] In a further alternative embodiment, the steering shaft is configured as a so-called steer-by-wire system in which the steering shaft is configured as a theoretical axis of rotation. For example, the steering device herein includes a so-called steering force simulator that senses the steering impact of the steering body or the steering wheel handle. Further, variable steering force and mechanical limit stops are preferably simulated by an electrically operable integrated brake. The steering operation is generated electronically and / or hydraulically (e.g., via a proportional valve actuated by an electronic control unit).

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering device, a steering wheel handle, preferably configured as a steering wheel rim, is removably connected to the steering wheel canister. In the active position, the steering wheel handle is fixed to the steering wheel canister for torque transmission, and in the stowed position, the steering wheel handle is removed from the steering wheel canister Remove and it is further proposed that it be done.

[0023] The steering wheel handle is removably fixable to the steering wheel canister. That is, the steering wheel handle is reversibly connected to the steering wheel canister or fixed to the steering wheel canister and then removed from the steering wheel canister. Here, "removable" further means a connection that can be quickly removed by the driver without using tools (preferably, during (fully) autonomous driving, for example, by pressing a button).

[0024] The steering wheel handle is preferably a steering wheel rim (particularly preferably circumferentially configured). The steering wheel rim is preferably spaced from the steering wheel canister so that the driver can grasp it.

[0025] For example, the steering operation of the driver can be transmitted to the vehicle wheels of the automobile through the steering wheel handle to the rotating shaft. The steering wheel rim is a circumferential component arranged around the rotating shaft. For example, the steering wheel rim is supported on the steering wheel canister by a plurality of spokes arranged to extend radially inward from the steering wheel rim to the steering wheel canister. Preferably, the steering wheel rim is also spaced apart from the steering wheel canister in the axial direction, particularly preferably in the direction of the driver, via the spokes.

[0026] Such a steering wheel rim enables the driver to grasp the steering wheel rim, providing a particularly safe operation of the steering device when actively controlling the automobile. Furthermore, due to the axial spacing of the steering wheel rim from the steering wheel canister, a particularly ergonomic operation of the steering device by the driver is possible.

[0027] When the steering body is in the active position, the steering wheel handle is fixed to the steering wheel canister and configured for torque transmission.

[0028] In contrast, in the storage position, the steering wheel handle is reversibly separated from the rest of the steering body according to the embodiments proposed herein. Remove The steering wheel handle is preferably completely removable and detachable from the steering wheel canister in a separate storage space within the dashboard, or attachable to a mount provided for this purpose.

[0029] In an alternative embodiment, RemovalIt is implemented by a folding mechanism such that the steering wheel handle is fixed by a hinge away from the steering wheel canister. For example, the hinge is disposed between the steering wheel handle and the steering wheel canister.

[0030] This embodiment has the advantage of creating a particularly large space in the cockpit, thereby providing a particularly comfortable space for the driver in (fully) autonomous driving.

[0031] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering device, it is further proposed that the steering wheel handle is removably connected to the steering wheel canister by a latch.

[0032] In one embodiment, the latch is arranged such that the steering wheel handle has a plurality of pins that snap-fit into complementary openings of the steering wheel canister. For example, in this embodiment, a spring mechanism is disposed on the steering wheel canister. By means of the spring mechanism, for example, a snap-in hook can be inserted into a recess in at least one of the pins of the steering wheel handle to create a positive block connection. Such a positive block connection is removable, for example, via a switch on the steering wheel canister and / or the steering wheel handle, so that the steering wheel handle is detachable from the steering wheel canister.

[0033] In an alternative embodiment, the steering wheel handle is connected to the steering wheel canister by an electric or magnetic drive latch mechanism, by a bayonet fastener, by a screw connection, by a click hinge, or the like.

[0034] The connection of the steering wheel handle to the steering wheel canister due to the characteristics of such a latch is particularly simple and quickly removable for the driver, and still provides the advantages of firm holding force and thus high safety.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering device, it is further proposed that the steering wheel canister comprises a first canister part and a second canister part, which are movable relative to each other, the airbag module is received within the second canister part, at least in the active position, the first canister part of the steering wheel canister is connected to the steering wheel handle and the second canister part of the steering wheel canister in a manner that transmits torque, it is preferred that the first canister part is pivotably mounted between the active position and the storage position around the pivot axis.

[0036] According to this embodiment, it is proposed that the steering wheel canister is arranged in two parts. Thus, the steering wheel canister comprises a first canister part and a second canister part, which are supported so as to be movable relative to each other. For example, in addition to receiving the airbag module, the steering wheel canister is preferably configured to receive electronic components and to drive and control the motor vehicle.

[0037] To ensure a functionally identical orientation of the second canister part, it is proposed that the airbag module is received within the second canister part and the second canister part is fixed to the rotation axis. To fix the second canister part to the rotation axis, the airbag module remains identically aligned and stationary regardless of the movement of the first canister part. Therefore, proper operation of the airbag module is ensured.

[0038] In the active position, the first canister portion is connected to the steering wheel handle and the second canister portion in a manner that transmits torque, such that the transmission of the steering operation torque from the steering wheel handle to both canister portions of the steering wheel canister can be realized. In an example of an embodiment of this embodiment, the steering wheel handle is connected to the steering wheel canister and the first canister portion, and is connected in a non-removable manner. In this case, "non-removable" means that the user cannot loosen the connection between the first canister portion of the steering wheel canister and the steering wheel handle by easily performing a plurality of simple operations (such as switching from an actively controlled driving mode to an autonomous driving mode during movement). However, the release of the connection known from industrial practice (such as by tools) is not excluded.

[0039] Preferably, the first canister portion is pivotally supported between the active position and the storage position around a pivot axis, and the connection of the first canister portion to the second canister portion in a manner that transmits torque is released outside the active position such that the second canister portion ensures a functionally identical operation of the received airbag module. The pivot axis is preferably arranged perpendicular to the rotation axis, and in one embodiment, is arranged within a technical component in which the pivoting of the first canister portion can be performed. For example, the pivot axis is arranged within a bearing, and the bearing is arranged such that the pivot axis is arranged laterally with respect to the rotation axis and is connected to the first canister portion by a lever arm, such that it can pivot around the pivot axis.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the pivot axis is a theoretical axis around which the first canister portion is pivotally supported between the active position and the storage position. For example, the first canister portion represents the theoretical center point of a curved rail with a curved pivot axis, and optionally, is arranged horizontally further away from the steering wheel canister (from the driver's perspective) than the pivot axis of the above embodiment, such that it can pivot into the storage position along the curved rail.

[0041] Such an embodiment having two canister parts provides the advantage that it is possible to create space for the driver in the cockpit during (fully) automated driving even without a steering wheel handle. Furthermore, it is not necessary to receive a steering wheel handle or a modified steering wheel handle. Removed Such an embodiment having two canister parts provides the advantage that it is possible to create space for the driver in the cockpit during (fully) automated driving even without a steering wheel handle. Furthermore, it is not necessary to receive a steering wheel handle or a modified steering wheel handle. Removal or Remove receive a modified steering wheel handle.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering device, it is further proposed that the steering wheel canister includes elements that are operable by the driver. Operate operable Operation elements.

[0043] Thus, the vehicle functions are also operable by the driver in at least the active position, preferably the stowed position, of the steering body. For example, such vehicle functions are infotainment functions, assistance systems such as lane keeping assist control devices and / or speed regulators of the motor vehicle, shifting, or selection of driving modes. Furthermore, for example, the steering wheel handle is removable by elements, or the first canister part is removable from and / or pivotable away from the second canister part. In one embodiment, in the stowed position, only vehicle functions for the infotainment system, such as the volume of the audio system or the play / pause button, are operable when the vehicle is (fully) automated by elements, so that incorrect adjustment of the vehicle functions of the vehicle is excluded during (fully) automated driving. Operate operable. For example, such vehicle functions are infotainment functions, assistance systems such as lane keeping assist control devices and / or speed regulators of the motor vehicle, shifting, or selection of driving modes. Furthermore, for example, the steering wheel handle is removable by elements, or the first canister part is removable from and / or pivotable away from the second canister part. In one embodiment, in the stowed position, only vehicle functions for the infotainment system, such as the volume of the audio system or the play / pause button, are operable when the vehicle is (fully) automated by elements, so that incorrect adjustment of the vehicle functions of the vehicle is excluded during (fully) automated driving. Operation removable by elements, or the first canister part is removable from and / or pivotable away from the second canister part. In one embodiment, in the stowed position, only vehicle functions for the infotainment system, such as the volume of the audio system or the play / pause button, are operable when the vehicle is (fully) automated by elements, so that incorrect adjustment of the vehicle functions of the vehicle is excluded during (fully) automated driving. Operation automated by elements, only vehicle functions for the infotainment system, such as the volume of the audio system or the play / pause button, are Operate operable, so that incorrect adjustment of the vehicle functions of the vehicle is excluded during (fully) automated driving.

[0044] Such Operation elements provides the advantage of facilitating the operation of vehicle functions, particularly in (fully) automated driving as well as in manual or semi - automated driving. Operate operation.

[0045] In an advantageous embodiment of the steering device, it is further proposed that an axial offset is formed between the steering wheel canister and the steering wheel handle.

[0046] According to such an embodiment, the steering wheel handle is connected to the steering wheel canister at least in the active position such that the steering wheel canister is axially spaced from the steering wheel handle, i.e., has an axial offset. The offset represents the axial distance between the steering wheel canister and the steering wheel handle. Thus, the driver can grasp the steering wheel handle (preferably configured as a steering wheel rim) and can be held ergonomically and safely.

[0047] The axial offset is adjustable, for example, by means of a latch according to the above embodiment. Preferably, the axial offset is adjustable by means of a latch such that the axial distance of the steering wheel handle is shortened or increased in the direction of the driver. In one embodiment, the pin has a plurality of notches for a spring mechanism such that the offset is preferably ergonomically adjustable.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment, the steering wheel canister has a plurality of latches for a bayonet seal, such that the offset between the steering wheel handle and the steering wheel canister is adjustable by the axial distance of the latches.

[0049] According to a further aspect, - at least one drive machine, and - at least one steerable vehicle wheel, and - at least one cockpit including at least one component of a dashboard and a steering device according to the above embodiment, A steering apparatus is proposed for a motor vehicle, which is configured to control the motor vehicle, receive a steering command from a driver, and convert the steering command into a torque transmission to at least one steerable vehicle wheel for the steering direction of the associated steerable vehicle wheel corresponding to the steering command.

[0050] The motor vehicle proposed in this specification comprises a drive machine and at least one steerable vehicle wheel, and as a result, it can move automatically and control itself as required. Preferably, such a motor vehicle is a passenger car, particularly preferably a sports car. The dashboard is arranged inside the motor vehicle, and the steering apparatus according to one embodiment as described above is arranged inside the dashboard. For example, an infotainment system having a plurality of screens is arranged inside the dashboard.

[0051] The steering apparatus is configured to control the motor vehicle, so that the driver's steering command can be transmitted to the vehicle wheel, and thus a new steering direction of the vehicle wheel can be realized. In one embodiment, the steering command can be transmitted to the vehicle wheel by a conventionally arranged steering column having a steering gear, and the traveling direction of the motor vehicle can be affected by the steering gear. The steering gear converts the steering body or the driver's steering command into a sliding motion on the tie rod of the vehicle so that the vehicle wheel rotates in a steering direction different from the current main traveling direction of the motor vehicle.

[0052] In an alternative embodiment, the steering command can be transmitted to the vehicle wheels by a servo motor, which assists the driver by transmitting the force generated by the driver to the vehicle wheels more powerfully by means of a hydraulic system and / or electric motor control. In this embodiment, the transmission of the steering command is not done directly by the powered steering column or steering gear, but rather by a torque that matches the steering command, so that less force needs to be applied to the steering body or steering wheel handle to change the direction of the steering.

[0053] In a further alternative embodiment, the steering command can be transmitted to the vehicle wheels by a so-called steer-by-wire system, and the steering axis is configured as a theoretical axis of rotation. For example, the steering device includes a so-called steering force simulator that senses the steering impact of the steering body or steering wheel handle while simulating variable steering force and mechanical limit stops by an electrically operable integrated brake. The steering command is generated electronically and / or hydraulically (e.g., via a proportional valve actuated by an electronic control unit) and transmitted to the vehicle wheels.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the motor vehicle, the steering wheel canister is housed in a holder of the motor vehicle dashboard, and it is further proposed that the steering wheel canister is preferably translatable along the axis of rotation.

[0055] Here, it is proposed that the dashboard has a receptacle, and the receptacle is configured to store the steering wheel canister. In one embodiment, the storage of the steering wheel canister can be performed only at the storage position of the steering body without the steering wheel handle. For example, the receptacle is designed such that only the steering wheel canister without the steering wheel handle can be stored in the receptacle.

[0056] In an alternative embodiment, the receptacle is designed such that the steering wheel canister is stored in the receptacle together with the steering wheel handle at the storage position. For example, in this embodiment, the receptacle has a recess for the steering wheel canister and the steering wheel handle, and as a result, it can be stored in the receptacle while the steering wheel canister is connected to the steering wheel handle.

[0057] In a further alternative embodiment, the steering wheel canister with the steering wheel handle can be stored in the receptacle of the dashboard in the active position. For example, when the vehicle is in the semi-automatic driving mode and the driver of the vehicle maintains the steering body in the active position, in this embodiment, it is possible to store the steering wheel canister in the receptacle of the dashboard with or without the steering wheel handle. Therefore, it is possible to improve the spatial comfort of the driver in the vehicle at the active position of the steering body. At the same time, the driver still has the option to intervene in the driving process in the active position.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the steering wheel canister translates along the axis of rotation into a receptacle in the dashboard for storage. In this preferred embodiment, the movement of the steering body between the active position and the storage position occurs by translation along the axis of rotation, and in (fully) autonomous driving of the motor vehicle, the driver can move the steering wheel canister into the receptacle in the dashboard with or without the steering wheel handle. For example, during in-town driving, the storage position is blocked for the steering wheel canister in semi-autonomous driving so as to exclude unwanted swiveling into the storage position of the steering wheel canister.

[0059] In the above-described embodiments, Operation the element may be part of the steering wheel canister and is preferably at least partially further operable when the steering wheel canister is received in the receptacle with or without the steering wheel handle. It should be noted that further, the translation of the steering wheel canister can be effected along the axis of rotation by a carriage mechanism or a telescopic mechanism. As an alternative or additionally, the translation of the steering wheel canister can be effected by a linkage along the axis of rotation and a plurality of rotary bearings, and the airbag module can operate in a functionally identical manner taking into account a minimal angular change. Operate In an advantageous embodiment of the motor vehicle, it is further proposed that the stowable part of the steering body can be fixed in the stowed position, preferably on the dashboard of the motor vehicle.

[0060]

[0061] ​The proposed fixation prevents unwanted swiveling of the steering body from its stowed position. For example, the fixation is configured as a snap mechanism or an electromagnetic lock, which releases the steering body from the fixation only when the trigger function is actuated. For this purpose, the steering wheel canister and / or the steering wheel handle preferably include corresponding counterparts on the side away from the driver, so that the steering body can be removably fixed to the dashboard of the motor vehicle. Particularly preferably, in the active position, the fixation mechanism is arranged so as not to be conspicuous outside the direct field of view of the driver.

[0062] The present invention described above will be explained in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings showing preferred configurations in the light of the relevant technical background. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to pure schematic diagrams in any way, and the drawings are not true to size and are not suitable for defining proportions.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0063]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0064] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the steering device 1. The steering device 1 includes a steering body 3 and a rotating shaft 4, and the rotating shaft 4 is coaxially arranged in the steering body 3. The steering body 3 includes a steering wheel canister 6 and a steering wheel handle 5. The steering wheel handle 5 in this embodiment is configured as a steering wheel rim 10 and is removably connected to the steering wheel canister 6 by a latch 11. The latch 11 is configured as a plurality of pins received by the steering wheel canister 6 in this embodiment. By the latch 11, for example, the axial offset 16 between the steering wheel canister 6 and the steering wheel handle 5 can be adjusted by a plurality of notches in the pins. It is preferable that the ergonomic position of the steering wheel handle 5 can be adjusted for the driver by the offset 16.

[0065] The airbag module 7 is arranged in the steering wheel canister 6, where the airbag module 7 is oriented in its operating direction towards the driver of the vehicle 2. The steering body 3 is arranged in the active position 8 in a suitable situation according to the figure (shown by the solid line), so that in the semi-automatic or manual driving of the vehicle 2, the vehicle 2 can be actively controlled by the driver. When the vehicle 2 is in (fully) autonomous driving, the steering body 3 can be moved into the storage position 9 (shown by the dashed line). To store the steering body 3 in the dashboard 20, a receptacle 21 is provided, which receives the steering wheel canister 6 in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the steering wheel handle 5 is separably connected to the steering wheel canister 6, so that the steering wheel handle 5 can be separated from the steering wheel canister 6 in the storage position 9 RemoveIt is done. The steering wheel canister 6 is translatable into the receptacle 21 along the rotation axis 4 via a telescopic mechanism from the active position 8 to the storage position 9. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the steering wheel canister 6 is translatable into the receptacle 21 along the rotation axis 4 by a carriage.

[0066] Due to the movability of the steering body 3 between the active position 8 and the storage position 9, an improvement in the required sitting comfort and comfort of the driver in the cockpit 19 can be realized during (fully) automated driving of the motor vehicle 2. Purely optionally, the head-up display 22 and the tachometer display 23 are arranged on the dashboard 20 as shown, and vehicle information, for example, the speed of the motor vehicle 2, the display of the infotainment system, or the navigation display can be graphically presented to the driver during manual driving, semi-automated driving, or (fully) automated driving. Preferably, in (fully) automated driving, the rotating tachometer display 23 is turned off and only the head-up display 22 is used. Conversely, for example, in manual driving or semi-automated driving, only the rotating tachometer display 23 can be used and the head-up display 22 can be turned off.

[0067] FIG. 2 shows a front view of the steering body 3 according to FIG. 1. The steering body 3 is arranged rotatably coaxially with respect to the rotation axis 4, and the steering body 3 includes a steering wheel canister 6 and a steering wheel handle 5. The steering wheel handle 5 is adapted to transmit the torque of the steering operation 24 of the driver of the motor vehicle 2. In this exemplary embodiment, the steering wheel handle 5 is configured as a steering wheel rim 10, and the steering wheel rim 10 is configured to be grasped by the driver's hand. The steering wheel handle 5 is LatchIt is removably fixed to the steering wheel canister 6 by 11. In this embodiment, it is fixed by four pins. By the latch 11, the steering wheel handle 5 is firmly fixed in a manner of transmitting torque, and yet it is still removably attached to the steering wheel canister 6 quickly and easily.

[0068] The steering wheel canister 6 is configured to Operate perform vehicle functions Operation and further includes an element 15. For example, the speed of the speed assistance device can be adjusted, and / or the infotainment system can Operation be actuated by the element 15. Further, the direction indicator of the motor vehicle 2 can Operation be controlled by the element 15. Also, in this embodiment, Operation a display of the current gear of the transmission 25 on the element 15 is also shown.

[0069] Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the steering apparatus 1 in another exemplary embodiment. The steering apparatus 1 includes a rotation shaft 4 around which a steering main body 3 is coaxially disposed. The steering main body 3 further includes a steering wheel handle 5 and a steering wheel canister 6. The steering wheel canister 6 includes a first canister portion 12 and a second canister portion 13. The second canister portion 13 is connected to the first canister portion 12 and the steering wheel handle 5 at the active position 8 in a manner that transmits torque. In the active position 8 (shown by a solid line) according to the figure, the canister portions 12, 13 are connected to each other, and as a result, torque transmission or a steering operation 24 can be realized by the steering wheel handle 5 for controlling the vehicle 2. As shown in the figure, the steering operation 24 can be transmitted at the active position 8 from the steering wheel handle 5, through the steering wheel canister 6, to the rotation shaft 4 which is a physically configured steering column. The airbag module 7 is disposed within the second canister portion 13, and the airbag module 7 is configured to reduce the impact on the driver in the event of a collision. At least a portion of the steering main body 3 can pivot between the active position 8 and the storage position 9 along a pivot axis 14. The pivot to the storage position 9 is performed purely by an arbitrarily curved rail 26, and the pivot axis 14 thus represents the theoretical pivot axis 14 at the theoretically central point of the intended busbar circuit.

[0070] Here, the storage position 9 of the steering body 3 is indicated by a dashed line. In this embodiment, the second canister portion 13 is removed from the first canister portion 12 and positioned such that the second canister portion 13 remains in a position and orientation that does not change as compared to the active driving of the vehicle (with the first canister portion 12 in the active position 8), and as a result, the airbag module 7 is also operable at the storage position 9 of the steering body 3. The fixing element 27 is disposed on the dashboard 20, which is configured to fix the steering wheel handle 5 with a corresponding counter part and to fix the steering wheel handle 5 in the storage position 9. For example, the fixing element 27 is configured as a clipping mechanism and / or a magnet, which releases the steering wheel handle 5 from the fixing with the corresponding counter part only by separately actuating the trigger of the fixing element 27. Further, a purely optional head-up display 22 and a purely optional rotational speedometer display 23 are disposed on the dashboard 20. The rotational speedometer display 23 at the storage position 9 is thereby shielded by the first canister portion 12 and the steering wheel handle 5, and as a result, in this case (fully automatic driving of the motor vehicle 2), only the head-up display 22 is applicable.

[0071] Figure 4 shows a motor vehicle 2 that is automatically driven and can be optionally driven in a (fully) automatic driving mode or a manual driving mode or a semi-automatic driving mode.

[0072] The motor vehicle 2 comprises a drive machine 17 configured as an electric traction machine in this embodiment, and a transmission 25. The drive machine 17 is configured to generate torque, and the transmission 25 is configured to transmit the torque to a plurality of vehicle wheels 18, and as a result, the torque can be transmitted to the substrate, and thus the motor vehicle 2 can be propelled. The front axle having two vehicle wheels 18 is configured as a steerable axle for controlling the vehicle.

[0073] The cockpit 19 is arranged inside the motor vehicle 2 and is configured for at least one driver of the motor vehicle 2. The cockpit 19 comprises a dashboard 20, which in turn comprises a receptacle 21 in which at least part of the steering body 3 of the steering device 1 is stowed in the stowed position 9 when the motor vehicle 2 is (fully) autonomously driven. The steering device 1 further comprises a rotary shaft 4, and the steering body 3 is preferably arranged coaxially around the rotary shaft 4 in the active position 8 in order to actively control the motor vehicle 2 during manual or semi-automatic driving. Furthermore, the steering body 3 comprises a steering wheel handle 5, which is configured here as a steering wheel rim 10, and a steering wheel canister 6, and the steering wheel canister 6 is adapted to transmit the steering movement 24 of the driver to the vehicle wheels 18.

[0074] The invention relates to a steering device for actively controlling a motor vehicle during at least semi-automatic driving, at least - a steering body having a rotary shaft, the steering body comprising a steering wheel handle and a steering wheel canister, the steering wheel handle and the steering wheel canister being rotatably connected to each other around the rotary shaft, - including components of an airbag module arranged in the steering wheel canister, at least part of the steering body having an active position and a stowed position and being movable between these positions, in the active position, the steering body being rotatable around the rotary shaft for active control of the associated motor vehicle. The steering device is characterized in particular in that the airbag module is held in the steering wheel canister in a functionally identical orientation regardless of the position of the steering body.

[0075] With the steering device proposed in this specification, it is possible to improve the freedom of movement and the seat of the driver of a motor vehicle during (fully) automated driving while maintaining safety in a collision event.

Claims

1. A steering device (1) for an operator to actively control an automobile (2), - A steering body (3) having a rotating shaft (4), comprising a steering wheel handle (5) and a steering wheel canister (6), wherein the steering wheel handle (5) and the steering wheel canister (6) are rotatably connected to each other around the rotating shaft (4), the steering body (3); - An airbag module (7) disposed in the steering wheel canister (6), At least a part of the steering body (3) has an active position (8) and a storage position (9) and is movable between these positions (8, 9), and in the active position (8), the steering body (3) is rotatable around the rotating shaft (4) for the operator to actively control the automobile (2), The airbag module (7) is held in the steering wheel canister (6) in a correctly aligned state to reduce the impact on the operator during a collision event, regardless of the positions (8, 9) of the steering body (3), The steering wheel handle (5) is removably connected to the steering wheel canister (6), In the active position (8), the steering wheel handle (5) is fixed to the steering wheel canister (6) for torque transmission, In the storage position (9), the steering wheel handle (5) is removed from the steering wheel canister (6), the steering device (1).

2. The steering device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the steering wheel handle (5) is removably connected to the steering wheel canister (6) by a latch (11).

3. The steering device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the steering wheel canister (6) includes an operating element (15) by which a vehicle function can be operated by the driver.

4. The steering device (1) according to claim 1, wherein an offset (16) in a direction along the rotation axis (4) is formed between the steering wheel canister (6) and the steering wheel handle (5).

5. -At least one drive machine (17), -At least one steerable vehicle wheel (18), and -At least including components such as a dashboard (20) and at least one cockpit (19) having the steering device (1) according to claim 1, An automobile (2), wherein the steering device receives a steering command from the driver and converts the steering command into torque transmission to at least one of the steerable vehicle wheels (18) for the steering direction of the associated steerable vehicle wheel (18) corresponding to the steering command.

6. The steering wheel canister (6) can be stored in a receptacle (21) of the dashboard (20) of the automobile (2), The automobile (2) according to claim 5, wherein the steering wheel canister (6) is translatable along the rotation axis (4).

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