Method and system for stowing steering column in an autonomous vehicle
US9630644B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 8, 2016 |
| Grant date | Apr 25, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 8, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D1/197
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A stowing steering column is provided for use with an autonomous vehicle that is capable of traveling at a slower rate of speed and a higher rate of speed, depending on the situation. The slower speed, that of about 20 mm/sec, is the “standard” speed that is utilized during regular stowage and unstowage of the steering wheel under ordinary conditions. The higher rate of speed is necessary in a situation where a possible impact event is sensed and the steering wheel must be extended back to the original design intent position in case the airbags need to be deployed or the vehicle operator needs to over-ride the system for an evasive maneuver. The slower rate of speed is preferably about 20 mm/sec while the higher rate of speed is preferably about 40 mm/sec.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.