Stowable steering wheel for autonomous vehicles
US11061401B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 29, 2019 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 10, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D15/0215
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A steering column for autonomous vehicles includes a powered actuator controlling rotation of a lower column, an inner column, and an upper column that is movable relative to the lower and inner columns. Rotation of the lower column relative to the upper column moves the upper column lengthwise. A powered lock rotatably interconnects the inner and lower columns when in a first position, and locks the inner column to a base when in a second position. In an autonomous mode, the upper column is stowed, the powered lock is in the first position, and the motor inhibits rotation of the lower column. In a manual mode, the upper column is extended, the powered lock is in the second position, and a sensor detects an angular position of the upper column.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.