DE102020202146A1 - Steering handle for a motorized vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering handle (1) of a motorized vehicle, with at least one steering element segment (21) which can be rotated about a steering axis (L) for inputting a steering angle; at least one spoke (3) which is firmly connected to a central element (5) of the steering handle (1), at least one pivot element (4) which is movably mounted, at least one pivot drive (8) for moving the pivot element (4), the with the swivel element (4) is in connection, the swivel drive (8) having a drive shaft (84) which interacts with the swivel element (4), and wherein the at least one swivel element (4) with the central element (5) and the at least a steering element segment (21) is in connection, and the steering handle (1) has at least one fixing mechanism (9) for fixing the at least one pivot element (4).

Description

The invention relates to a steering handle according to the preamble of claim 1.

In the case of autonomous driving, it is no longer necessary for the steering device to be permanently available to the motor vehicle driver. For reasons of comfort and to enable the vehicle driver to carry out other activities, it is therefore expedient to design the steering device in a space-saving manner.

From the DE 10 2006 006 995 A1 a steering wheel for autonomous driving is known, in which the steering wheel has a base on which two sections are articulated so that they can each pivot about a pivot point.

The problem on which the invention is based is to provide a steering handle that is as stable and adjustable as possible, in particular for autonomous driving.

This problem is solved by an object having the features of claim 1.

A steering handle for a motorized vehicle is described, with at least one steering element segment which can be rotated about a steering axis for inputting a steering angle; at least one spoke that is firmly connected to a central element of the steering handle, at least one pivoting element that is movably mounted, at least one pivoting drive for moving the pivoting element, which is connected to the pivoting element, the pivoting drive having a drive shaft that is connected to the pivoting element cooperates, and wherein the at least one pivot element is connected to the central element and the at least one steering element segment, and the steering handle has at least one fixing mechanism for fixing the at least one pivot element.

Motorized vehicles can in particular be land vehicles, watercraft or aircraft. Land vehicles are, for example, motor vehicles such as passenger cars, trucks or mobile homes. Watercraft can be, for example, motor boats and aircraft, for example, airplanes.

A steering handle is a steering device that is intended to input a steering angle. The steering handle can in particular be a (full-circle or semicircular) steering wheel. The steering handle has at least one (pivotable) steering element segment. The steering handle can optionally have at least one further (non-pivotable) steering element segment. The at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment can be used (individually or together) to enter a steering angle. A steering element segment for entering a steering angle means in particular a steering element segment with which a steering angle of the motorized vehicle can be influenced (specified / controlled). The steering angle can be entered, for example, actively by a force applied by the vehicle driver or autonomously by the vehicle. In particular, the quotient of the steering wheel angle and the total steering ratio is understood as the steering angle. The steering element segment can be actuated by a vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver. The at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment can together form, for example, a steering wheel rim.

The steering handle has a central element. The central element can also be referred to as the hub of the steering handle and, in particular, can be a steering wheel hub. The central element is the area where the spokes of the steering handle or the steering wheel converge. The central element is surrounded by the at least one steering element segment and optionally the at least one further steering element segment. The central element is arranged (essentially) perpendicular to the steering axis and / or to the steering column. The central element lies, for example, in a plane that is in front of or behind the plane in which the further steering element segment runs (when looking in the direction of the windshield). The central element can (essentially) lie parallel to the plane in which the further steering element segment runs.

The entire steering handle (including at least the central element, the at least one spoke, the at least one steering element segment and the at least one pivoting element) is mounted so as to be movable, in particular rotatable, about a steering axis. The steering axis is thus the geometric axis around which the central element and optionally the at least one further (non-pivotable) steering element segment rotate. The steering axis is (essentially) parallel to the steering column of the motorized vehicle. The steering axis is (essentially) perpendicular to the central element.

Since the entire steering handle is movable about the steering axis, the at least one (pivotable) steering element segment and optionally the at least one further (non-pivotable) steering element segment can also be rotated around the steering axis in the driving position.

The fact that the at least one swivel element is movably supported means that the swivel element per se in the direction of the windshield (and / or the front armature) and / or movable away therefrom, in particular pivotable or foldable.

The further steering element segment is firmly connected to the at least one spoke. The further steering element segment is (exclusively) movable about the steering axis, in particular mounted so as to be rotatable. The at least one further steering element segment (alone) cannot, for example, be moved in the direction of the front fitting (the dashboard) or the front window (windshield) of the vehicle or away from it. Nevertheless, the entire steering handle, comprising the at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment, can be moved in the direction of the front armature and / or the windshield of the vehicle or can be moved away therefrom.

The steering handle has at least one spoke. A spoke has, for example, a spoke skeleton, a foam covering and / or a lining (e.g. a leather lining). The spoke is connected to the central element. The spoke is an element that tapers, for example, radially towards the central element. The spoke has a main direction of extent. The main direction of extent runs in particular along the geometric axis (main axis of extent) which runs towards the central element. The at least one spoke can connect the central element to the at least one further (non-pivotable) steering element segment. Unless expressly referred to as a movably mounted spoke, a spoke is understood to be a spoke that is fixedly (non-releasably) connected to the central element and optionally fixedly (non-releasably) connected to the at least one further steering element segment.

The spoke alone is (exclusively) movable, in particular rotatable, about the steering axis. The spoke alone cannot, for example, be moved in the direction of the windshield (and / or the front fitting) or away from it.

The at least one spoke can be curved at least in sections. The curvature can in particular be formed in the direction of the front pane and / or the central element. The at least one spoke can be curved at several points. The spoke can be L-shaped, U-shaped, V-shaped or Z-shaped. The spoke can have at least one projection which optionally forms a holder for the drive shaft. For example, the spoke can also be X-shaped or V-shaped.

The steering handle has at least one swivel element. The at least one pivot element is movably mounted. The at least one pivot element is connected to the central element and the at least one steering element segment. The pivot element can thus be understood as a movably mounted spoke.

The fact that the at least one pivot element is connected to the at least one (pivotable) steering element segment means in particular that the at least one pivot element is releasably or non-releasably (firmly) connected to the at least one steering element segment. The fact that the at least one swivel element is connected to the central element means in particular that the at least one swivel element is connected directly or indirectly (e.g. via a drive shaft) to the central element.

The swivel element is movably mounted in such a way that it can be moved, in particular swiveled or folded, towards the windshield of the motorized vehicle and / or away from the windshield of the motorized vehicle. The swivel element (alone) can be moved in the direction of the front window (and / or the front fitting) and / or away from it.

The at least one swivel element can be a swivel arm. The at least one swivel element can be curved at least in sections. The curvature can in particular be formed in the direction of the front pane and / or the central element. The at least one pivot element can be curved at several points. The at least one pivot element can be L-shaped, U-shaped, V-shaped or Z-shaped. The at least one pivot element can be curved around the at least one spoke.

The at least one swivel element runs (looking in the direction of the front fitting or windshield) at least in sections in front of or behind the spoke. One swivel element can run at least in sections behind the spoke and in sections (at another point) below or above the spoke (looking in the direction of the front fitting or windscreen). Alternatively, the at least one swivel element (looking in the direction of the front fitting or windshield) can run at least in sections in front of the spoke and in sections (at another point) below or above the spoke.

The at least one spoke and the steering axis span an (imaginary) plane. For example, a spoke and the steering axis can span an (imaginary) plane together. In particular, the geometric axis, which lies along the main direction of extent of a spoke, and the steering axis together span an (imaginary) Level up. If the spokes lie on a geometric axis, several spokes can span an (imaginary) plane together with the steering axis. This plane runs (essentially) perpendicular to the central element. This plane runs (essentially) parallel to the steering column.

The at least one (pivotable) steering element segment is arranged at least in the driving position on a first side of the plane spanned by the at least one spoke and the steering axis. The pivot point of the pivot element lies in the plane spanned by the spoke and the steering axis or on a side opposite the first side. The pivot point can be (essentially) at the level of the central element. The central element can lie in a plane which is in front of or behind the plane in which the at least one steering element segment and optionally the further steering element segment runs in the driving position (looking towards the windshield). For example, an opening angle between the at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment of more than 90 ° or more than 120 ° can be achieved.

The pivot element is pivotable about a pivot axis. The pivot axis can lie along the main direction of extent of the drive shaft. The pivot axis can run along the main direction of extent of the spoke and / or (essentially) parallel to it. The pivot axis can run within the plane spanned by the at least one spoke and the steering axis, or (essentially) parallel thereto. The pivot axis can also run (essentially) parallel to the central element. Essentially parallel means, for example, with a maximum deviation of 5 °, 15 ° or 30 ° in all directions.

The at least one pivot element and the at least one spoke overlap one another at least in sections in an overlapping area (in any position that the pivot element can assume, e.g. in the driving position and / or rest position). The spoke and swivel element can come into contact with each other. The overlap area of the at least one spoke and the at least one pivot element is arranged in particular in the plane spanned by the spoke and the steering axis. The overlap area of the at least one spoke and the at least one pivot element is spatially arranged between the central element and the at least one steering element segment and / or the at least one further steering element segment. The spoke can have a stop for the pivot element. The stop can, for example, limit the opening angle between the one steering element segment and the further steering element segment. The stop can also have a shock-absorbing function, for example.

The at least one swivel element and the at least one spoke can overlap one another in an X-shape (when looking in the direction of the front fitting or front pane). The at least one pivot element and the at least one spoke can cross each other (in any position that the pivot element can assume). The overlap or crossover provides additional stability for the spokes and / or the steering handle. The overlapping and / or crossing of the spoke and the pivoting element can lead to increased stability of the one (pivotable) steering element.

For example, a steering device for a motorized vehicle is described, with at least one steering element segment that can be actuated by a vehicle occupant and optionally with at least one further steering element segment for entering a steering angle, at least one spoke that is fixedly connected to the central element and optionally fixedly connected to the at least one further steering element segment is, at least one pivot element that is movably mounted (in the direction of the windshield of the motorized vehicle) and is connected to the central element and the at least one steering element segment, wherein the at least one pivot element and the at least one spoke overlap at least in sections.

Moving the pivot element is accompanied by a movement of the one (pivotable) steering element segment which is connected to the pivot element. The swivel element and the steering element segment connected to it can be moved (steplessly) into different positions, in particular swiveled. In this way, the pivot element and the steering element segment connected to it can be moved from a driving position to a rest position and vice versa. The driving position is the position in which the vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver, needs the steering handle to enter a steering angle (that is to say in particular while the motorized vehicle is in motion).

In the driving position, one steering element segment lies in a plane that is (essentially) parallel to the side of the central element which has the largest area. In the driving position, the steering element segment lies in a plane that is (essentially) parallel to the central element, looking in the direction of the windshield. In the rest position, the steering element segment can lie in a plane which is (essentially) perpendicular to the side of the central element which has the largest area. In the rest position, the steering element segment can therefore lie in a plane that is (essentially) perpendicular to the central element, looking in the direction of the windshield.

In the driving position, one steering element segment can form a circular steering wheel rim with the further steering element segment. In the driving position, one steering element segment can lie in the same plane as the other steering element segment, whereas in the rest position one steering element segment is not in the same plane as the other steering element segment. The swivel element can be moved into a plane (looking in the direction of the windshield) which lies in front of or behind the plane in which the further steering element segment runs. In the rest position, one steering element segment can thus be moved into a plane (looking in the direction of the windshield) which lies in front of or behind the plane in which the further steering element segment runs. The pivot element can be movably mounted in such a way that it can be moved towards the windshield of the motorized vehicle and / or away from the windshield of the motorized vehicle. For example, one steering element segment is folded in the direction of the windshield in the rest position.

The one steering element segment can have (at least) two ends. The one steering element segment can be connected to a swivel element either only at one of its ends or at two or more of its ends.

The pivot element can be connected to at least one pivot drive for moving the pivot element. The at least one pivot drive can be arranged on the spoke and / or on the central element. If necessary, several quarter turn actuators can be connected in parallel. As a result, the necessary force required for the pivoting process can be better covered in order to obtain a quieter drive process or to be redundant.

The swivel drive can have a drive motor. The drive motor can cause the drive shaft to move. However, non-motorized rotary actuators can also be used. The swivel drive can be operated by a vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver. The non-motorized variant can save costs and weight.

The swivel drive can have a drive shaft. The drive shaft can be arranged on the central element and / or the spoke. A holder for the drive shaft, for example, can be arranged on the central element and / or the spoke. Alternatively, the central element and / or the spoke can form the holder. The drive shaft can be arranged on the holder, for example the drive shaft can extend at least in sections into the holder or completely through the holder. The holder can have a ball bearing or slide bearing in which the drive shaft is mounted.

The swivel drive can comprise a transmission. The transmission can have (at least) one gearwheel. The transmission can be a gear transmission or a worm gear. The gear transmission can have a pairing of a gear with a rack. The swivel drive can thus have a toothed wheel and a toothed rack which is in contact with the toothed wheel. The swivel drive can also have a gearwheel and a drive shaft which is in contact with the gearwheel. The worm gear can have a pairing of a helical drive shaft (worm shaft) and a gear (worm wheel). The swivel drive can thus have a worm wheel and a worm shaft which is in contact with the worm wheel. The transmission, in particular the gear transmission or the worm gear, can be driven by an (electric) drive motor.

The rack can be arranged on the central element. The rack can be arranged obliquely or transversely to (the main direction of extent) the spoke. The rack can be arranged at an angle to (the main direction of extent) the spoke. The fact that the rack is arranged at an angle to (the main direction of extent) the spoke means that the rack is at an angle greater than 0 °, for example at an angle of 1 ° to 90 ° or 45 ° to 90 °, to (the main direction of extent) the spoke is arranged.

A drive shaft can be arranged on the central element. One end of the drive shaft can be connected to the central element and the other end of the drive shaft can be connected to the pivot element. The transmission, which is optionally driven by the drive motor, can be arranged on, in particular on, the drive shaft. The drive shaft extends in particular through the gear.

Optionally, the swivel drive can have at least one overload clutch.

At least one sensor (e.g. a rotation angle sensor) can be arranged on the at least one swivel drive.

A drive shaft and optionally a slide bearing can also be arranged at both ends of the steering element segment. The drive shaft can be connected to a pivot element at its other end. The pivot elements in turn can be arranged on the central element (on different sides). For example, at two (opposite) locations on the central element, the pivoting element can be connected to the central element by pairing a toothed wheel with a toothed rack. Alternatively, a pivot element can be connected to the central element at one point of the central element via a pairing of a toothed wheel with a rack and another pivot element can be connected to another point of the central element (which is opposite the one point) via a pairing of a toothed wheel with a rack are connected to the central element.

In a first embodiment of a swivel drive, the swivel drive can have a pairing of a toothed wheel with a toothed rack. A toothed rack can be arranged on the central element and one end of the pivoting element can be connected to a toothed wheel (whereas the steering element segment is arranged at the other end of the pivoting element), the toothed wheel being in contact with the toothed rack. The gear wheel can be connected to one end of the pivot element via a drive shaft. The other end of the drive shaft is connected to the pivot element. For example, the drive shaft extends through the gear. The gear wheel can therefore rotate around the drive shaft. The rack can be moved by the drive motor. The movement of the rack causes a movement of the gear, which in turn causes a movement of the drive shaft. The drive shaft can optionally be connected to a plain bearing and / or ball bearing. The ball bearing can be arranged on at least one holder.

In a further embodiment of a swivel drive, the swivel drive can have a worm gear. The worm gear can have a pairing of a worm wheel with a worm shaft. A drive shaft can thus be arranged on the central element. One end of the drive shaft can be connected to the central element and the other end of the drive shaft can be connected to the pivot element. The worm gear, which is driven by a drive motor, is arranged on the drive shaft. An overload clutch can optionally be arranged on the drive shaft. For example, the drive shaft extends through the worm wheel (gear). The worm shaft is connected to the drive motor, which can move the worm shaft. The movement of the worm shaft causes the worm wheel to move, which in turn causes the drive shaft to move.

The steering handle can have at least one fixing mechanism for fixing the at least one pivot element. The fixing mechanism for fixing the at least one pivot element can have a fixing element (e.g. a bolt or a pawl). The fixing mechanism can optionally have a fixing receptacle and / or a fixing motor.

The at least one fixing mechanism can fix the at least one swivel element in the driving position, for example. The at least one fixing mechanism can fix the at least one swivel element to the at least one spoke and / or the at least one further steering element segment, for example. The at least one fixing mechanism can fix the at least one swivel element in the driving position and / or in the rest position, for example.

The at least one fixing mechanism can be arranged on the drive shaft and / or on the pivot element. The at least one fixing mechanism can have a fixing element, in particular a bolt or a pawl. The at least one fixing element can fix the drive shaft (in the driving position).

The fixing element can be moved into a fixing receptacle by a fixing motor in order to reach a fixing position. The fixing motor and the fixing element can be arranged on the spoke, whereas the fixing receptacle can be arranged on the pivot element. Alternatively, however, the fixing motor and the fixing element can also be arranged on the pivot element, whereas the fixing receptacle can be arranged on the spoke. In another embodiment, the fixing element can be arranged on one steering element segment and the fixing receptacle on another steering element segment or vice versa.

Thus, a steering element segment can be connected to a swivel element at each of its two ends, it being possible for each swivel element to be fixable by a respective fixing mechanism. This makes it possible to fix the at least one pivot element on both sides, thereby achieving greater stability of the steering element segment connected to the pivot element.

The fixing mechanism can be a magnetic, electromagnetic, electrical, be pneumatic, motorized, electromechanical and / or mechanical fixing mechanism. The fixing mechanism can for example be a magnetic fixing mechanism which has a magnet, in particular a permanent magnet, which can be or is coupled to a fixing element.

The fixing mechanism may have a fixing motor. However, non-motorized fixing mechanisms can also be used.

In the driving position, the at least one drive shaft is blocked (in its rotation) by the fixing mechanism. In order to be able to swivel the swivel element (e.g. in the rest position), the fixing of the drive shaft must be released. This can be done manually by the vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver, or semi-automatically or fully automatically, e.g. triggered by an impact. The duration of the swivel movement from the driving position to reaching the intended rest position can be between two seconds and three minutes.

One embodiment of a fixing mechanism can have a bolt as the fixing element. The fixing element can fix the at least one pivot element on the at least one spoke. The bolt can be fixed in a fixation receptacle (e.g. arranged on the spoke).

In another embodiment, the fixing element can be designed as a latching pawl. The latch can block the drive shaft in the driving position. In the rest position, the latching pawl can be moved away from the drive shaft, thus releasing the drive shaft for rotation.

The drive shaft can be arranged in a bearing bush, which is used to guide and position the drive shaft. The bearing bush preferably contains a plastic suitable for the function or is made from this. The bearing bushing can, however, also contain a metal or an alloy with bearing properties or be formed from this. In addition to its guiding function, the bearing bush also has a sliding function and can also help to minimize noise.

Each of the swivel drives mentioned can be combined as desired with at least one of the fixing mechanisms mentioned.

The at least one fixing mechanism can have at least one fixing monitor which detects whether the pivot element is fixed or not. This fixation monitoring can, for example, have at least one Hall sensor. The fixing monitoring (e.g. a Hall sensor) can be arranged on the fixing mechanism, e.g. on a holding plate.

The steering handle can have at least one opening monitoring device for monitoring the opening angle between the at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment. The opening monitoring can, for example, have a rotation angle sensor or rotation angle meter. The opening angle between the one steering element segment and the other steering element segment is greater in the rest position than in the driving position.

The steering handle can have a potentiometer, for example a rotary potentiometer.

Since there can be a free space, for example a gap, between the at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment (in the driving position), the steering handle can have anti-trap protection to protect a vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver. This prevents the vehicle occupant from becoming trapped in the free space that is present (in the driving position) between the at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment. The pinch protection can be arranged on the at least one steering element segment and / or the at least one further steering element segment, in particular on one end of the at least one steering element segment and / or the at least one further steering element segment. The pinch protection can be arranged (in the driving position) in such a way that it covers (conceals) the free space between the at least one steering element segment and the at least one further steering element segment.

One of the aforementioned steering handles can be arranged in a motorized (e.g. electrically powered) vehicle. A motorized (e.g. electrically driven) vehicle with one of the aforementioned steering handles is thus also described. A (fully or partially) autonomous vehicle with one of the aforementioned steering devices is also described.

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung einer Lenkhandhabe;
• 2A eine Lenkhandhabe mit einem Schwenkantrieb und einem Fixiermechanismus in einer Fahrposition;
• 2B die Lenkhandhabe aus 2A in einer Ruheposition;
• 3 eine Detailansicht eines Drehpotentiometers aus 2A;
• 4A eine Detailansicht des Schwenkantriebs aus 2A;
• 4B eine Schnittzeichnung durch den Schwenkantrieb aus 4A;
• 5A eine Detailansicht des Fixiermechanismus aus 2A;
• 5B eine Schnittzeichnung durch den Fixiermechanismus aus 5A;
• 5C eine weitere Schnittzeichnung durch den Fixiermechanismus aus 5A;
• 6A eine andere Ausgestaltung einer Lenkhandhabe mit einem anderen Schwenkantrieb und einem anderen Fixiermechanismus in einer Fahrposition;
• 6Bdie Vorderansicht der Lenkhandhabe aus 6A in einer Ruheposition;
• 6C die Rückansicht der Lenkhandhabe aus 6A in einer Ruheposition;
• 7 eine Detailansicht des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 6A;
• 8 eine andere Ansicht des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 7;
• 9 eine weitere Ansicht des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 7;
• 10A eine Detailansicht des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 9 ohne Schwenkelement in einer Fixierposition;
• 10B eine Detailansicht des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 9 ohne Schwenkelement in einer Freigabeposition;
• 11A eine weitere Detailansicht des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 10A ohne Speiche in einer Fixierposition;
• 11 B eine Explosionszeichnung des Schwenkantriebs und Fixiermechanismus aus 11 A.

The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of exemplary embodiments with reference to the figures. Show it:

• 1 a schematic representation of a steering handle;
• 2A a steering handle with a swivel drive and a fixing mechanism in a driving position;
• 2 B the steering handle off 2A in a rest position;
• 3 a detailed view of a rotary potentiometer 2A ;
• 4A a detailed view of the rotary actuator 2A ;
• 4B a sectional drawing through the rotary actuator 4A ;
• 5A a detailed view of the fixing mechanism 2A ;
• 5B a sectional drawing through the fixing mechanism 5A ;
• 5C another sectional drawing through the fixing mechanism 5A ;
• 6A another embodiment of a steering handle with a different swivel drive and a different fixing mechanism in a driving position;
• 6Bthe Front view of the steering handle 6A in a rest position;
• 6C the rear view of the steering handle 6A in a rest position;
• 7th a detailed view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 6A ;
• 8th another view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 7th ;
• 9 another view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 7th ;
• 10A a detailed view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 9 without pivot element in a fixing position;
• 10B a detailed view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 9 without a pivot element in a release position;
• 11A a further detailed view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 10A without a spoke in a fixation position;
• 11 B an exploded view of the swivel drive and fixing mechanism 11 A .

1 shows a schematic representation of a steering handle 1 for a motorized vehicle in a driving position. The steering handle 1 has a steering element segment 21 and another steering element segment 22nd for entering a steering angle, which together form a steering wheel rim here. Between the one steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd there is a free space 6th , e.g. a gap. The steering handle 1 has a central element 5 what of the one steering element segment 21 and the one other steering element segment 22nd is surrounded. The steering handle 1 has two spokes 3 on, each firmly attached to the central element 5 and the one other steering element segment 22nd are connected. The steering handle 1 also includes two swivel elements 4th , which are movably mounted and each with the central element 5 and the one steering element segment 21 are connected. In the top view shown, one spoke each overlap or cross one another 3 and a pivot element 4th in an overlap area 7th . The overlap area 7th is spatially between the central element 5 and the steering element segments 21 , 22nd arranged.

In 2A and 2 B is a steering handle 1 with a swivel drive 8th and a fixing mechanism 9 shown. Between the one steering element segment 21 (here the lower steering wheel rim segment) and the further steering element segment 22nd (here the upper steering wheel rim segment), which are mounted rotatably about a steering axis for entering a steering angle, there is a free space 6th . The central element 5 is from the one steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd surround. The steering handle 1 has two spokes 3 on, each with the central element 5 and the one other steering element segment 22nd are connected. The spoke 3 can also have a stop 10 for the swivel element 4th exhibit.

The steering handle 1 also includes two swivel elements 4th , which are movably mounted and each with the central element 5 and the one steering element segment 21 are connected. The steering element segment 21 is therefore each with a swivel element at its two ends 4th connected, each with the central element 5 communicates.

The steering handle 1 has a swivel drive 8th for moving the pivot element 4th on, the one with the swivel element 4th communicates. On one of the two swivel elements 4th can the rotary actuator 8th and on the other pivot element 4th a rotary potentiometer 13th be arranged.

The at least one spoke 3 (in particular the geometric axis along the main direction of extent H of at least one spoke 3 lies) and the steering axis L. together span an (imaginary) plane E. on. The steering element segment is in the driving position 21 , which with the swivel elements 4th connected on a first page A. the one through the spokes 3 and the steering axle L. spanned plane E. arranged. The steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel elements 4th connected is around a pivot point 19th pivoted, which is on one of the first side A. opposite side B. the one through the spokes 3 and the steering axle L. spanned plane E. is located. The steering element segment 21 is also about a pivot axis S. pivotally mounted that yourself here on one of the first pages A. opposite side B. the one through the spokes 3 and the steering axle L. spanned plane E. is located. The pivot axis S. is (essentially) parallel to that through the spokes 3 and the steering axle L. spanned plane E. arranged. The pivot axis S. runs along the main direction of extent of the drive shaft 84 .

On the central element 5 can also use a rotary protractor 12th for monitoring the opening angle between the one steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd be arranged.

The swivel drive 8th has here a gear transmission and a drive shaft 84 on. The gear train includes a gear 83 and one with the gear 83 rack in contact 82 . The drive shaft 84 has two ends, one end with the gear 83 and its other end with the pivot element 4th connected is. The gear 83 is on the drive shaft 84 arranged. The rack 82 is on the central element 5 arranged, in particular at an angle of about 90 ° to the spoke 3 . The swivel drive 8th also has an (electric) drive motor 87 on, the one with the rack 82 is in contact and a movement of the rack 82 can cause. By moving the rack 82 becomes the gear 83 moves, causing the drive shaft 84 and the associated swivel element 4th is moved, which in turn leads to a movement of the to the pivot element 4th bound steering element segment 21 leads.

The steering handle 1 has two fixing mechanisms 9 on each of the pivoting element 4th on the spoke 3 can fix. The one steering element segment 21 is therefore each with a swivel element at its two ends 4th connected, each pivot element 4th each with a fixing mechanism 9 is fixable. The respective fixing mechanism 9 comprises a fixing element 91 , a fixation mount 92 and a fixing motor (not visible).

The fixing element 91 is designed here as a bolt that is driven by a locking motor (not visible). into a fixation mount 92 (here a fixing bracket or a fixing eyelet) can be moved to get into a fixing position. The bolt is mounted in a sliding sleeve. The fixing motor (not visible) and the fixing element 91 are on the spoke 3 arranged, wherein the fixation 92 on the pivot element 4th is arranged. The one steering element segment 21 is therefore each with a swivel element at its two ends 4th connected, each pivot element 4th each with a fixing mechanism 9 is fixable.

The fixing mechanism 9 can also have a fixation monitor 11 , for example in the form of a Hall sensor, which for example. On a retaining plate 15th is arranged.

Around the swivel element 4th To be able to pivot (eg into the rest position), the drive shaft must be fixed 84 be solved. This can be done manually by the vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver, or automatically, for example triggered by an impact.

The steering handle 1 can have a pinch protection 14th to protect a vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver. This prevents the vehicle occupant from being in the free space 6th , the (in the driving position) between the one steering element segment 21 and the one other steering element segment 22nd is present, can pinch. The trap protection 14th is here on the one steering element segment 21 arranged.

In 2A is the steering handle 1 shown in the driving position. In the driving position, they form a steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd together the steering wheel rim. In the driving position one spoke each overlap 3 and a pivot element 4th in an overlap area 7th . The fixing element 91 can the swivel element 4th fix in the driving position in a fixing position, which ultimately also the drive shaft 84 of the swivel drive 8th is fixed (e.g. blocked in its rotation). The fixing element fixes in the driving position 91 the fixing mechanism 9 in a fixing position the at least one pivot element 4th on the at least one spoke 3 . This is also the steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected, fixed in the driving position and / or the fixing position.

In 2 B is the steering handle 1 shown in the rest position. In the rest position, this is a steering element segment 21 and the associated swivel element 4th pivoted in the direction of the front window (folded). One spoke also overlaps in the rest position 3 and a pivot element 4th in an overlap area 7th . The fixing element 91 can the swivel element 4th release in the release position for a movement, which ultimately also the drive shaft 84 of the swivel drive 8th is released again (e.g. its rotation is no longer blocked). The fixing element fixes in the rest position 91 the fixing mechanism 9 the at least one pivot element 4th no longer on at least one spoke 3 . The fixing element 91 is then in a release position. This is also a steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected, movable.

In 3 Figure 3 is a detailed view of a rotary potentiometer 13th the end 2A to see for the angle of rotation measurement. The bracket 16 for the rotary potentiometer 13th can on the central element 5 be arranged and a ball bearing 20th have in which the rotary potentiometer 13th is movably mounted. The rotary potentiometer 13th can with a swivel element 4th be connected.

In 4A is a detailed view of the swivel drive 8th the end 2A shown. The drive shaft 84 can get through a bracket 16 extend. The bracket 16 is on the central element 5 arranged and holds the drive shaft 84 . The gear 83 is at one end of the drive shaft 84 arranged and is in contact with a rack 82 attached to the central element 5 is arranged. The other end of the drive shaft 84 is with the swivel element 4th tied together. The drive motor 87 for the swivel drive 8th can on the central element 5 be arranged. The drive motor 87 may have a threaded rod that is in contact with a driving pawl 17th for the rack 82 stands. The drive motor 87 So can the driver pawl 17th move, which is a movement of the rack 82 causes. By moving the rack 82 becomes the gear 83 moves, causing the drive shaft 84 and the associated swivel element 4th and that with the swivel element 4th connected steering element segment 21 be moved.

In 4B is a sectional drawing through the rotary actuator 8th the end 4A shown. The drive shaft 84 is at one end with the gear 83 and at its other end with the swivel element 4th tied together. The pivot axis S. lies along the main direction of extent of the drive shaft 84 . On the central element 5 is a bracket 16 for the drive shaft 84 arranged. The bracket 16 has a ball bearing 20th on where the drive shaft 84 is stored.

In 5A Figure 3 is a detailed view of the fixing mechanism 9 the end 2A shown in the fixing position. The fixing element 91 fixes the swivel element 4th in the fixation position on one spoke 3 , whereby the steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected, is fixed in the fixing position. The fixing element 91 is designed here as a bolt. The fixing element 91 thereby engages in a fixation receptacle 92 , which is designed here as a fixing eyelet. The fixing element can 91 on one spoke 3 be arranged, whereas the fixation mount 92 on the pivot element 4th can be arranged. The fixing mechanism 9 can also have a fixation monitor 11 For example, in the form of a Hall sensor, which for example. On a retaining plate 15th is arranged. The fixation monitor 11 can change the position of the fixing element 91 capture. For example, a sensor can detect whether the fixing element is 91 in the fixation mount 92 is located or not. Since between the one steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd a free space 6th is located on the one steering element segment 21 the trap protection 14th arranged.

In 5B is a cross-sectional view of the fixing mechanism 9 the end 5A to see without the fusing monitor. It can be seen here that a pin is arranged on the side of the bolt, the position of which is shifted with the position of the bolt, this being able to be detected by the fixing monitoring device, which is not shown. The fixing mechanism 9 can be a housing 10 have in which the fixing element 91 and the fixing motor 93 are arranged. The case 10 can have a recess for the pin arranged on the side of the bolt. The fixing element 91 is on one spoke 3 arranged, which with the further steering element segment 22nd connected is. The fixation mount 92 is on the swivel element 4th arranged, which with the one pivotable steering element segment 21 communicates. The trap protection 14th is here on the one pivotable steering element segment 21 arranged.

In 5C is another sectional drawing through the locking mechanism 9 the end 5A to see. It can be seen here that the fixing element 91 (here the bolt) is mounted in a plain bearing or a sliding sleeve. The fixation mount 92 can also have a sliding sleeve into or through which the fixing element extends 91 can extend in the fixing position. The fuser motor 93 stands with the fixing element 91 in connection and can do this in the direction of the fixation 92 holding on to the spoke 3 can be arranged to move. The fuser motor 93 can have a thread, which with the fixing element 91 connected is. The case 10 can be arranged on a holder, which for example on the spoke 3 is arranged. The fixation mount 92 is on the swivel element 4th arranged, which with the one pivotable steering element segment 21 communicates. The trap protection 14th is here on the one pivotable steering element segment 21 arranged.

In the 6A , 6B and 6C is a steering handle 1 with another rotary actuator 8th and another fixing mechanism 9 shown. Between the one steering element segment 21 (here the lower steering wheel rim segment) and the further steering element segment 22nd (here the upper steering wheel rim segment), which are used to enter a steering angle around a steering axis L. are rotatably mounted, there is a free space 6th . The central element 5 is from the one steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd surround. The steering handle 1 has two spokes 3 on, each with the central element 5 and the one other steering element segment 22nd are connected.

The steering handle 1 also includes two swivel elements 4th , which are movably mounted and each with the central element 5 and the one steering element segment 21 are connected. The steering element segment 21 is therefore each with a swivel element at its two ends 4th connected, each with the central element 5 communicates.

On the two spokes 3 can each have a rotary actuator 8th be arranged to pivot the respective pivot elements 4th serves. However, there is only one rotary actuator here 8th shown. The trap protection 14th to protect the vehicle driver is on the one pivotable steering element segment 21 arranged.

One spoke 3 and the steering axle L. together span an (imaginary) plane E. on. The steering element segment is in the driving position 21 , which with the two swivel elements 4th connected on a first page A. the one through the spoke 3 and the steering axle L. spanned plane E. arranged. The steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel elements 4th connected is around a pivot point 19th pivotally mounted, with the fulcrum 19th of the pivot element 4th on a side opposite the first side of the through the spoke 3 and the steering axle L. spanned plane E. is located.

The steering handle 1 has two fixing mechanisms 9 and a swivel drive 8th on. On one of the two spokes 3 is a rotary actuator here 4th and a fixing mechanism 9 arranged. On the other spoke 3 is just a fixing mechanism 9 arranged.

Around the swivel element 4th To be able to pivot (e.g. in the rest position), the drive shaft must be fixed 84 be released manually by the vehicle occupant, in particular the vehicle driver, or automatically, for example triggered by an impact.

In 6A is the steering handle 1 shown in the driving position. In the driving position, they form a steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd together the steering wheel rim. In the driving position one spoke each overlap 3 and a pivot element 4th in an overlap area 7th . In the driving position, the locking mechanism 9 the at least one pivot element 4th fix. This is also a steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected, fixed in the driving position.

In the 6B and 6C is the steering handle 1 shown in the rest position, with 6B a front view and 6C a rear view of the steering handle 1 shows. In the rest position, this is a steering element segment 21 and the associated swivel element 4th pivoted in the direction of the front window (folded). One spoke also overlaps in the rest position 3 and a pivot element 4th in an overlap area 7th . The opening angle between the one steering element segment 21 and the further steering element segment 22nd is larger in the rest position than in the driving position. The fixing mechanism fixes in the rest position 9 the at least one pivot element 4th no longer. This is also the steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected to a pivot axis S. moveable.

7th shows a detailed view of the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 6A . The swivel drive 8th has a drive shaft 84 which has two ends, one end with the central element 5 and its other end with the pivot element 4th connected is. The swivel drive 8th includes a worm gear. The worm gear includes a gear 83 , the so-called worm wheel and a worm shaft in contact with the worm wheel 88 . The worm shaft 88 stands with a drive motor 87 in connection, of a movement of the worm shaft 88 can cause. By the movement of the worm shaft 88 the worm wheel is moved, causing the drive shaft 84 and the associated swivel element 4th is moved, which in turn leads to a movement of the to the pivot element 4th bound steering element segment 21 leads. On the drive shaft 84 is also at least one overload clutch 86 arranged that the swivel drive 8th protects against excessive torques. On the swivel drive 8th is a fixing mechanism 9 arranged. The fixing mechanism 9 comprises a fixing element 91 and a fixing motor 93 . The fuser motor 93 and the drive motor 87 of a rotary actuator 8th are on one spoke 3 arranged.

8th shows another view of the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 7th . The swivel drive 8th has a drive shaft 84 which extends through the worm wheel. The gear 83 in the form of a worm wheel stands with the worm shaft 88 in connection, which from a drive motor 87 is driven. The overload clutch 86 is also on the drive shaft 84 arranged. The swivel drive 8th can have at least one sensor 18th , for example for torque measurements. The spoke on which the rotary actuator 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 are arranged is with the central element 5 tied together. The swivel element 4th stands with the swivel drive 8th in connection.

9 shows a further view of the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 7th . The swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 are on the spoke 3 arranged. The swivel element 4th stands with the swivel drive 8th in connection. The swivel element 4th and the spoke 3 overlap each other in every position that the pivot element can assume. The fixing mechanism 9 includes a permanent magnet 85 . The worm shaft 88 , which is shown here only as a cylinder, has a thread, not shown, which into the tooth gaps of the gear 83 , here the worm wheel, engages.

In 10A is a detailed view of the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 9 Shown without a swivel element in a fixing position. The swivel drive 4th and the fixing mechanism 9 are on the spoke 3 arranged. The fixing mechanism 9 comprises a fixing element 91 and a fixing motor 93 . The fixing element 91 is here as a pawl 94 formed by a fixing motor 93 can be moved into a fixing position or release position. In the fixing position, the fixing element 91 the drive shaft 84 and thereby the swivel element connected to it 4th fix. This is also the steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected, fixed in the driving position and / or fixing position. The fixing position can in particular be in the driving position of the one steering element segment 21 be taken. The fixing mechanism can therefore be in the driving position 9 the at least one pivot element 4th fix. The worm shaft 88 engages in the tooth gaps of the gear in the fixing position 83 , here the worm wheel.

10B shows a detailed view of the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 9 without swivel element in a release position. The swivel drive 4th and the fixing mechanism 9 are on the spoke 3 arranged. The fixing mechanism 9 can the drive shaft 84 release in the release position for a movement (for example. No longer blocked in their rotation), which ultimately also the pivot element 4th is released again. This also causes the steering element segment 21 , which with the swivel element 4th is connected, movable. The drive motor can support the swiveling process 87 activated to reduce the friction between the drive shaft 84 and the fixing element 91 to reduce. The drive motor 87 or a solenoid switch with a driver is released by the fixing element 91 from the drive shaft 84 is moved away and thus the drive shaft 84 is released for rotation. The fixing element 91 is then in a release position. The worm shaft 88 also engages in the tooth gaps of the gear in the release position 83 , here the worm wheel. After the fixation is released, at least one sensor detects 18th this state and the drive motor 87 switches itself on and starts the panning process. The movement takes place via the at least one worm wheel, which controls the rotary movement of the drive motor 87 into a rotation of the at least one steering element segment 21 and in a pivoting movement of the steering element segment 21 implements.

11A shows a further detailed view of the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 10A without a spoke in a fixation position. It can be seen that the swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 are related to each other. The swivel drive 8th includes a worm gear. The worm shaft 88 the worm gear is with the drive motor 87 connected to which the worm shaft 88 drives. The worm shaft 88 stands with the gear 83 , here a worm wheel, in contact. By the rotation of the worm shaft 88 and its thread, which engages in the tooth gaps of the worm wheel, the worm wheel is moved. Because the worm wheel with the drive shaft 84 connected, becomes the drive shaft 84 and that with the drive shaft 84 connected swivel element 4th (not shown) moves. The drive shaft 84 rotates around a swivel axis S. . On, especially on, the drive shaft 84 can be an overload clutch 86 and a permanent magnet 85 be arranged. The fixing mechanism 9 has a fixing element 91 (e.g. a pawl 94 ) on which the drive shaft 84 can block in their rotation. The fixing mechanism 9 has a magnetic switch (e.g. comprising a permanent magnet 85 ), the one with the pawl 94 is in operative connection. The fixing mechanism 9 also has a fixing motor 93 on, the one with the fixing element 91 (e.g. the pawl 94 ) is in communication. The swivel drive 8th and / or the fixing mechanism 9 can use a wide variety of sensors 18th exhibit. The swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 can be attached to a bracket 16 be arranged, which with a spoke 3 can be connected.

In 11 B is an exploded view of the rotary actuator 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 the end 11A shown. The swivel drive includes 8th a transmission 81 , here for example in the form of a worm gear, consisting of a pair of gearwheels 83 in the form of a worm wheel with a worm shaft 88 . The swivel drive 8th also includes a drive shaft 84 and a drive motor 87 . The swivel drive 8th can optionally use an overload clutch 86 exhibit. The fixing mechanism 9 comprises a fixing element 91 in the form of a pawl 94 , a fixing motor 93 as well as a permanent magnet 85 . The swivel drive 8th and the fixing mechanism 9 can be attached to a bracket 16 be arranged. On the bracket 16 can sensors too 18th for monitoring the swivel drive 8th and / or the fixing mechanism 9 be arranged. The bracket 16 can be arranged on the spoke and / or the central element or the holder 16 can be formed by the spoke and / or the central element.

List of reference symbols

1

Steering handle

21

Steering element segment

22nd

another steering element segment

3

spoke

4th

Swivel element

5

Central element

6th

free space

7th

Overlap area

8th

Slewing drive

81

transmission

82

Rack

83

gear

84

drive shaft

85

Permanent magnet

86

Overload clutch

87

Drive motor

88

Worm shaft

9

Fixing mechanism

91

Fixing element

92

Fixation mount

93

Fixing motor

94

Pawl

10

attack

11

Fixation monitoring

12th

Rotation angle meter

13th

Rotary potentiometer

14th

Pinch protection

15th

Retaining plate

16

bracket

17th

Driving pawl

18th

sensor

19th

pivot point

20th

ball-bearing

S.

Swivel axis

L.

Steering axle

H

Main direction of extension spoke

E.

level

A.

first page

B.

side opposite the first page

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 102006006995 A1 [0003]

Claims (15)

Steering handle (1) of a motorized vehicle, with - At least one steering element segment (21) which can be rotated about a steering axis (L) for inputting a steering angle; - At least one spoke (3) which is firmly connected to a central element (5) of the steering handle (1), - At least one swivel element (4) which is movably mounted, - At least one swivel drive (8) for moving the swivel element (4), which is connected to the swivel element (4), the swivel drive (8) having a drive shaft (84) which cooperates with the swivel element (4), and wherein - The at least one pivot element (4) is connected to the central element (5) and the at least one steering element segment (21), and - The steering handle (1) has at least one fixing mechanism (9) for fixing the at least one pivot element (4). Steering handle (1) Claim 1 , characterized in that the drive shaft (84) has two ends, one end of the drive shaft (84) with the central element (5) and / or the spoke (3) and the other end of the drive shaft (84) with the pivot element ( 4) is connected. Steering handle (1) Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the drive shaft (84) extends through at least one gearwheel (83). Steering handle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive shaft (84) is arranged in or on at least one holder (16). Steering handle (1) Claim 4 , characterized in that the at least one holder (16) is arranged on the spoke (3) and / or the central element (5) or is formed by the spoke (3) and / or the central element (5). Steering handle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one pivot drive (8) has a drive motor (87). Steering handle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one swivel drive (8) has at least one overload clutch (86). Steering handle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one sensor (18) is arranged on the at least one pivot drive (8). Steering handle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one fixing mechanism (9) has a fixing element (91), in particular a bolt or a pawl, which from a fixing position in which the fixing element (91) is the swivel element (4) fixed, can be brought into a release position in which the fixing element (91) does not fix the pivot element (4). Steering handle (1) Claim 9 , characterized in that the at least one fixing element (91) is arranged on the drive shaft (84), the spoke (3) of the holder (16) and / or the pivot element (4). Steering handle (1) Claim 9 or 10 , characterized in that the at least one fixing element (91) fixes the drive shaft (84) in the fixing position. Steering handle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing mechanism (9) is a magnetic, electromagnetic, pneumatic, electrical, electromechanical, motorized and / or mechanical fixing mechanism (9). Steering handle (1) according to one of the Claims 2 until 12th , characterized in that the at least one swivel drive (8) has a toothed wheel (83) and a toothed rack (82) in contact with the toothed wheel (83). Steering handle (1) Claim 13 , characterized in that the toothed rack (82) is arranged at an angle to the at least one spoke (3). Steering handle (1) according to one of the Claims 2 until 12th , characterized in that the at least one swivel drive (8) has a worm gear.

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