Changeable-shape steering wheel

US11318979B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft · DE

Inventors

• Philipp KERSCHBAUM · Munich, DE
• Markus Wadepuhl · Munich, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 16, 2019
• Grant date: May 3, 2022
• Expiry date: Sep 16, 2039

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60K2360/782
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A changeable-shape steering wheel of a motor vehicle has a steering wheel rim composed of a plurality of rim parts, of which some can be pivoted relative to one another, in order for it to be possible, in addition to a circular shape, for it to also be transferred into an approximately oval shape. In a neutral position of the steering wheel which is rotatable about a circular shape center point, the semi-major axis in an oval shape is oriented at least substantially horizontally. The rim parts are movable by way of levers which are provided on the steering wheel rim, such that, in the neutral position, the semi-major axis of the oval shape of the steering wheel is no longer than half the diameter in the case of a circular shape of the steering wheel. In the neutral position, central rim side parts are preferably connected rigidly to a central steering wheel hub structure, whereas a single actuator which brings about a shape change can pivot, and pivot back, the lower rim side parts in the neutral position of the steering wheel in the direction of the circular shape center point in the case of the transition from the circular shape to the oval shape.