DE102019203908A1 - Steering wheel assembly for a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering wheel arrangement (1) for a motor vehicle, with a steering wheel (10) and at least one optical element (20) which is designed to emit light, the at least one optical element (20) on the steering wheel (10) is arranged. The steering wheel arrangement (1) is characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) can be moved independently of a movement of the steering wheel (10) or a part thereof relative to a stationary vehicle component of the vehicle interior. The steering wheel arrangement (1) is further characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) can assume at least one position in which the light emitted by the at least one optical element (20) and the at least one optical element ( 20) itself can be seen when the steering wheel arrangement (1) is properly arranged in the vehicle and viewed from the driver's perspective.

Description

The invention relates to a steering wheel arrangement for a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1.

Such arrangements are known, for example from DE 10 2008 057 332 A1 . In the known arrangements, a lighting system is often used to display a functional state of the steering wheel or other vehicle information.

The problem on which the invention is based is to provide an arrangement that enables vehicle information to be signaled as conspicuously as possible, which is easily perceptible to a driver without unduly distracting the driver's attention from the traffic situation.

This problem is solved by providing the steering wheel arrangement with the features of claim 1. Further developments of the invention are given in the dependent claims.

According to this, a steering wheel arrangement for a motor vehicle is provided which comprises a steering wheel and at least one optical element. The at least one optical element is designed to emit light. The light can in particular comprise visible light. Visible light is to be understood in particular as the part of the electromagnetic spectrum that is visible to the human eye (wavelength range from approx. 380 nm to approx. 780 nm). It is also conceivable that the light includes infrared radiation for special applications such as face recognition. Infrared radiation is to be understood in particular as light in the wavelength range from approx. 780 nm to approx. 1 mm. The at least one optical element is arranged on the steering wheel.

The steering wheel arrangement is characterized in that the at least one optical element can be moved independently of a movement of the steering wheel or a part thereof relative to a stationary vehicle component of the vehicle interior. The part of the steering wheel can in particular be the steering wheel rim, the steering wheel spokes (steering wheel body) or the steering wheel hub. The stationary vehicle component can for example be the dashboard of the vehicle. The steering wheel arrangement is further characterized in that the at least one optical element can assume at least one position in which the light emitted by the at least one optical element and the at least one optical element emitting the light itself, when the steering wheel arrangement is arranged as intended in the vehicle and seen from the driver's point of view. (In the event that the light emitted by the at least one optical element is infrared radiation that is not visible to the human eye, the expression “to see” is to be understood here to mean that the light emitted by the at least one optical element is directed at the driver while the at least one optical element emitting the infrared radiation is visible to the driver when the steering wheel arrangement is properly arranged in the vehicle.) Thus, the driver can perceive a moving, light-emitting optical element. The signaling of vehicle information can be emphasized by the movement of the optical element. In particular, the combination of the type of movement (speed, direction, frequency) and emitted light (duration, wavelength, frequency) can be specific for a certain vehicle function to be signaled. By moving the optical element, different positions of the optical element can also be controlled, wherein a position can be specific for a certain vehicle function to be signaled. If two or more optical elements are provided, their relative arrangement to one another can also be specific for a certain vehicle function to be signaled. The at least one movable optical element can also be used for decorative purposes.

In addition to the at least one position of the at least one optical element in which the light emitted by the at least one optical element and the at least one optical element emitting the light itself can be seen when the steering wheel arrangement is properly arranged in the vehicle and viewed from the driver's perspective are, it can be provided that the at least one optical element can assume a storage position in which the at least one optical element is stowed, for example, in a receiving device and is not visible from the driver's point of view.

According to one embodiment, the at least one optical element is (for example, even if it is in the at least one position in which the light emitted by the at least one optical element and the at least one optical element emitting the light itself, if the steering wheel arrangement is arranged as intended Vehicle and seen from the driver's point of view) arranged on the steering wheel in such a way that the light emitted by the at least one optical element is directly, without additional deflection means provided for deflecting the emitted light, when the steering wheel arrangement is arranged as intended in the vehicle , in the direction of a driver (who as intended on a as intended with regard to the Steering wheel arrangement arranged vehicle seat sits) spreads. For example, no mirror elements (reflective surfaces) are required that direct the light emitted by the at least one optical element in the direction of the driver.

For the movable arrangement of the at least one optical element on the steering wheel, the steering wheel arrangement can comprise a movement device. The movement device can comprise a first movement element, which is arranged on the at least one optical element, and a second movement element, which is arranged on the steering wheel. The first movement element and the second movement element can be in engagement with one another. The first and the second movement element can assume specific positions with respect to one another (and can be movable between them with respect to one another) so that the at least one optical element can assume different positions, wherein a position can be specific for a certain vehicle function to be signaled. The mutually engaged first and second movement elements form a connection between the at least one optical element and the steering wheel. The at least one optical element and the steering wheel are preferably only connected via one or more (synchronized) movement devices.

The movement device can furthermore comprise a drive device, for example a motor, which is connected to the second movement element of the movement device and is designed to set the second movement element in motion. The movement of the second movement element can be a rotary movement, for example. Alternatively, a rotary movement of the drive device can be translated into a linear movement by a transmission mechanism, so that the movement of the second movement element is a linear movement.

It is conceivable that the first movement element and the second movement element are in engagement with one another in such a way that a movement of the second movement element causes a movement of the first movement element. Thus, the first movement element can comprise a rack and the second movement element can comprise a gear, so that a rotary movement of the gear is converted into a linear movement of the rack. If the second movement element is linearly movable, the first movement element and the second movement element can be positively connected in such a way that the second movement element takes the first movement element with it when it moves linearly. The first movement element can also comprise a section of a gearwheel, so that a movement (rotational movement or linear movement) of the second movement element causes a rotational movement of the gearwheel section. Here, the second movement element can be designed as a toothed wheel that can be rotated or as a toothed rack that is linearly displaceable.

According to one embodiment, when the steering wheel arrangement is arranged as intended in the vehicle, the first movement element is arranged on a side of the at least one optical element facing away from the driver. If the first movement element is arranged on another side, the movement device can be arranged in a concealed manner behind an element of the steering wheel, viewed from the driver's perspective. The first movement element can be arranged along a section of the at least one optical element. Alternatively, the first movement element can be arranged along the entire extent of the optical element.

According to one embodiment, the at least one optical element extends along a contour of an element of the steering wheel (steering wheel element) and / or along a section of the contour of the element of the steering wheel. For example, the at least one optical element can extend along the contour of the central area of the steering wheel. Accordingly, the at least one optical element can have a shape that corresponds to the contour of the respective steering wheel element, and the at least one optical element is arranged in the region of the respective steering wheel element. Alternatively, the at least one optical element can have a shape that is independent of the contour of each of the elements of the steering wheel or is independent of the contour of the steering wheel element in whose area the at least one optical element is arranged.

The at least one optical element can thus be ring-shaped or have at least one arc-shaped section. If the first movement element is also ring-shaped or arcuate, it can be achieved that the at least one optical element executes a rotary movement.

One embodiment provides that the at least one optical element has two arcuate sections which are connected to one another at their ends via a linear section. The curved and linear sections can lie in one plane. In this embodiment, the at least one optical element forms a closed structure. The two arcuate sections can each be arranged in such a way that their curvature is directed outwards. The first movement element can be on one or two of the linear Sections of the at least one optical element can be arranged. If the first movement element is also linear, it can be achieved that the at least one optical element performs a linear movement. Alternatively, the at least one optical element can have an arcuate section which is connected at its ends to a linear section. In this alternative, the at least one optical element forms an open structure with an interruption.

Another embodiment provides that the at least one optical element is rod-shaped and extends along a longitudinal axis. The at least one optical element can be displaceable along the longitudinal axis. For this purpose, the first movement element can be linear. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one optical element can be rotatable about its longitudinal axis. For this purpose, the first movement element can be designed in the shape of a ring or an arc around a section of the rod-shaped optical element. This section can be formed, for example, in a region near the longitudinal end of the rod-shaped optical element.

It is conceivable that the at least one optical element emits light over its entire surface or only over one or more section (s) of its surface. The appearance of the at least one optical element can thus be designed individually.

The at least one optical element can have its own device for light generation or (on the steering wheel arrangement or in the vehicle) use existing light-generating devices whose light is coupled into the at least one optical element by means of a corresponding coupling device, so that the at least one optical element Can emit light. The coupling device is preferably designed such that it couples all of the light (apart from technically unavoidable losses) from the light-generating device into the at least one optical element, so that the light (visible to the driver) is only emitted via the at least one optical element. The light from the external light-generating device can reach the coupling-in device of the at least one optical element from the external light-generating device, for example, via a light guide device. The light guide device can comprise a light guide or a light tube and optionally deflecting elements (such as, for example, deflecting mirrors) and lenses for focusing. The light guide device can in particular be arranged in the steering wheel so that it is not visible to a user. In the event that light from several light-generating devices is used, several light-guiding devices can be provided accordingly. Alternatively, a light guide device can be used for all light-generating devices. The multiple light generating devices can emit light of different wavelengths (colors). Thus, if the at least one optical element is used for decorative lighting, a user can choose a specific color. If the at least one optical element is used to display vehicle information, a color can correspond to specific vehicle information. For example, a manual driving mode can be symbolized by the color green (the steering wheel can / must be operated), while an autonomous driving mode is symbolized, for example, by the color red (the steering wheel must not be operated). In order to control the light-generating device (s), driver electronics can be provided which, based on the vehicle information or other inputs, cause the light-generating device (s) to emit light accordingly.

The at least one optical element can furthermore have a scattering structure with a multiplicity of scattering elements for scattering the light of the light-generating device (s). The scattering structure can be formed homogeneously over the entire extent of the at least one optical element, that is to say the scattering elements can be distributed homogeneously over the at least one optical element. The at least one optical element can thus emit the coupled-in light of the light-generating device uniformly, so that in principle the entire optical element lights up. Alternatively, the scattering structure can comprise a plurality of sections which are spaced apart from one another and which each comprise a plurality of scattering elements. It is also possible to provide only one such section which extends over part of the at least one optical element. As a result, one or more regions of the at least one optical element can emit light. This can be used in particular for the design of the appearance of the steering wheel arrangement or for signaling specific vehicle information. The scatter structure allows different angles of refraction to be introduced into the material of the at least one optical element. If the light-generating device emits polychromatic light, this can be spectrally broken down into the individual color components by this scatter structure. The scatter structure can be formed by microcracks in the material of the at least one optical element. The microcracks can be on the surface of the at least one optical element and / or in the interior of the at least one optical element be provided. It is also conceivable that the at least one optical element is made of acrylic glass or crystal glass. The micro-cracks can be introduced by machining with a laser.

The at least one optical element can have a surface which is composed of a plurality of (flat) surfaces which meet to form one or more edges. This edge (s) can (in combination with the microcracks or alone) form the scattering structure of the at least one optical element. Alternatively, the at least one optical element can have a surface which is formed by a self-contained, curved surface. In this alternative, the surface has no edges.

The at least one optical element can be designed as a solid body or as a hollow body. The solid body only has an outer surface, while the hollow body has a wall with an outer and an inner surface, the wall enclosing a cavity. The aforementioned surface (with or without edges) refers to the outer surface and any inner surface that may be present.

One or more lenses, which for example have an optically magnifying effect, can be incorporated into the material of the at least one optical element. The lens (s) can be arranged and aligned in such a way that, when the steering wheel arrangement is properly arranged in the vehicle, an element (a display) beyond the magnifying glass, for example an element (a display) on the dashboard, is enlarged for the driver for the purpose of readability or emphasis appears.

If the at least one optical element is designed as a hollow body, the hollow space can be filled with air, a noble gas, or in some other way. Thus, for example, a mist-like fluid can be provided in the cavity which comprises scattering particles on which the light from the light-generating device can be scattered. The scatter structure can (additionally) be formed by the filling present in the cavity.

According to one embodiment, the at least one optical element can be formed in one piece. It can thus be avoided that (undesired) light refraction phenomena occur at transitions between parts (sections) of the at least one optical element. However, the refraction of light at transitions can be quite desirable, so that it is also conceivable that the at least one optical element is constructed from several pieces, which are optionally connected to one another mechanically and in a light-conducting manner by means of corresponding coupling pieces. The at least one optical element can also be designed in several pieces, the pieces being spaced apart from one another.

The steering wheel can comprise several elements. Thus, a steering wheel rim that can be grasped by a driver and a central area (in particular a steering wheel hub) can be provided, the steering wheel rim partially or completely surrounding the central area. The central area can cover an airbag module. The steering wheel rim can be connected to the central area by means of at least one steering wheel spoke. A rocker switch can be arranged on the at least one steering wheel spoke.

For example, the at least one optical element can be arranged on a rocker switch of the steering wheel or on a steering wheel spoke, in particular on a side of the rocker switch or the steering wheel spoke facing away from the driver and facing the dashboard (cluster) of the vehicle.

The light-generating device can emit monochromatic light, that is to say light of a defined wavelength or a narrow wavelength range. It is also conceivable that the light-generating device emits polychromatic light. The light-generating device can emit the light continuously or in a pulsed manner, so that the at least one optical element emits light in a correspondingly permanent or pulsed manner. By means of the light pulses or the light pulse sequence, the at least one optical element can indicate to the driver a specific situation, for example a danger (proximity to a vehicle driving ahead, obstacle when changing lanes). Different pulse frequencies and / or (temporal) lengths of the light pulses can be assigned to different situations (dangers). If two or more optical elements are provided, they can each be assigned to a light-generating device. Thus, different light-generating devices can generate light with different properties (for example wavelength), which light is then emitted (simultaneously) via the two or more optical elements.

The light-generating device can be arranged anywhere in the vehicle. But it is also conceivable that the light-generating device is part of the steering wheel arrangement. The light-generating device can emit light that is provided only for the at least one optical element and is completely coupled into this. Alternatively, the light-generating device can have the at least one optical element on the one hand and at least one other function (display, Function switch) of the steering wheel or the vehicle on the other hand provide light. Thus, a light-generating device can be used for the at least one optical element, which device also provides light to a display of a rocker switch or of the central area of the steering wheel.

The light-generating device is, for example, a light-emitting diode or a laser (in particular a semiconductor laser). Because the light-generating device does not have to be arranged directly on the optical element, there is no need to arrange driver electronics used to operate the light-generating device in the vicinity of the optical element.

The features mentioned in relation to the light-generating device apply to the light-generating device both when it is part of the steering wheel arrangement and when it is arranged outside the steering wheel arrangement.

The steering wheel arrangement can have more than one optical element. The optical elements can be fed with light from one or different light-generating device (s). In the latter case, the optical elements can emit light of different colors, for example. The optical elements can be coupled in such a way that they emit light simultaneously (in phase) or out of phase. The optical elements can also emit light completely independently of one another.

• 1 schematisch eine Vorderansicht einer Lenkradanordnung gemäß einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 2 eine Draufsicht auf das optische Element der Lenkradanordnung aus 1;
• 3 eine Seitenansicht eines Ausschnitts des optischen Elements aus 2 und eines Ausschnitts aus der Bewegungsvorrichtung der Lenkradanordnung aus 1;
• 4 schematisch eine Vorderansicht einer Lenkradanordnung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 5 eine Draufsicht auf die zwei optischen Elemente der Lenkradanordnung aus 4;
• 6 eine Seitenansicht eines Ausschnitts eines optischen Elements aus 5 und eines Ausschnitts aus der Bewegungsvorrichtung der Lenkradanordnung aus 4;
• 7 schematisch eine Vorderansicht einer Lenkradanordnung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung;
• 8 eine Seitenansicht des optischen Elements und der Bewegungsvorrichtung der Lenkradanordnung aus 7;
• 9 eine Seitenansicht des optischen Elements der Lenkradanordnung aus 7 und einer alternativen Bewegungsvorrichtung; und
• 10 eine Seitenansicht eines optischen Elements gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung.

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

• 1 schematically a front view of a steering wheel assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;
• 2 a plan view of the optical element of the steering wheel assembly 1 ;
• 3 a side view of a section of the optical element from 2 and a section from the movement device of the steering wheel assembly 1 ;
• 4th schematically a front view of a steering wheel assembly according to a further embodiment of the invention;
• 5 a plan view of the two optical elements of the steering wheel assembly 4th ;
• 6th a side view of a section of an optical element from 5 and a section from the movement device of the steering wheel assembly 4th ;
• 7th schematically a front view of a steering wheel assembly according to a further embodiment of the invention;
• 8th a side view of the optical element and the movement device of the steering wheel assembly 7th ;
• 9 a side view of the optical element of the steering wheel assembly 7th and an alternative movement device; and
• 10 a side view of an optical element according to a further embodiment of the invention.

In the 1 illustrated steering wheel assembly according to the invention 1 includes a steering wheel 10 , which has a central area (hub area) 11 and one the central area 11 (here as an example completely) surrounding steering wheel rim 12th having. The front view 1 corresponds to the view that a driver has of the steering wheel arrangement 1 if it is properly arranged in a vehicle. The steering wheel rim 12th is over (here as an example) three spokes 13 with the central area 11 connected. On two spokes 13 each is a rocker switch 14th arranged, with the paddles 14th (from the driver's point of view) behind the spoke 13 and laterally over the spokes 13 stick out. The steering wheel 10 is attachable to a steering column of the vehicle. In so-called drive-by-wire applications, the steering wheel is 10 otherwise attachable to the vehicle.

The steering wheel assembly 1 further comprises an optical element 20th that on the paddles 14th of the steering wheel 10 is arranged. Here is the optical element 20th from the driver's point of view behind the paddles 14th (and spokes 13 ) arranged. The optical element 20th is designed to emit (in particular visible) light. The optical element 20th includes two arcuate sections 21st and two linear sections 22nd , with the ends of the arcuate sections 21st each over a linear section 22nd are connected together so that the four sections 21st , 22nd together form a closed shape, with linear and arcuate sections 21st , 22nd alternate ( 2 ). The four sections 21st , 22nd are essentially arranged in one plane. In this embodiment the arcuate sections are 21st each arranged in such a way that their curvature is directed outwards. The linear sections 22nd are aligned parallel to each other. The optical element has a square (for example square or rectangular) cross section. Other cross-sectional shapes, such as round, are conceivable. The cross-sectional shape can also be along the optical element 20th vary. For example, the cross-section of the linear sections 22nd be square and the cross section of the arcuate sections 21st round. The optical element 20th is formed in one piece (as a molded part). In 2 is the optical element 20th in a plan view as in 1 shown.

The steering wheel assembly 1 further comprises two light generating devices 30th each close to a linear section 22nd are arranged. Any light generating device 30th can for example be in the form of a laser or a light-emitting diode. As a coupling device 23 for coupling the light from the light-generating devices 30th into the linear sections 22nd of the optical element 20th serves, indicate the linear sections 22nd each have a flat coupling surface. Thereby the light of the light generating devices 30th completely (apart from technically unavoidable losses) into the optical element 20th coupled and only via the optical element 20th (visible to a driver). In 2 are the light-generating devices 30th one outside each of the linear sections 22nd arranged facing. Alternatively, the inside opposite the outside, or the front or rear side, of the linear sections is also possible 22nd , each extending parallel to the plane containing the optical element 20th open, conceivable. In either case, the light generating devices are 30th not visible from the driver's point of view. So can the light-generating devices 30th for example on the spokes 13 , be arranged on the side of the spokes facing away from the driver.

The optical element 20th is movable on the steering wheel 10 arranged. For this purpose, the steering wheel assembly 1 a movement device 40 with two identical subunits. The movement device 40 is so behind the spokes 13 arranged in 1 in 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions so that they are not visible to a driver A sub-unit is shown in a side view in 3 shown. Each sub-unit of the movement device 40 comprises a first moving element 41 attached to the optical element 20th (more precisely at the bottom of one of the linear sections 22nd ) is arranged, and a second moving element 42 that on the steering wheel 10 (more precisely on one of the rocker switches 14th ) is arranged. Alternatively, the first moving element 41 also on the front, inside or outside of the linear section 22nd be arranged if the light-generating device is not facing this side.

The first movement element 41 is designed as a rack that extends linearly along the direction of extent of the linear section 22nd extends on the surface of the back of the linear section. The second movement element 42 is designed as a gear that can be rotated about an axis of rotation and with the rack 41 is engaged. By a drive device such as a motor (not shown), the gear 42 driven and set in rotation. The rotating gear 42 causes a linear movement of the rack 41 and the optical element attached thereto 20th along a direction of movement in the 1 to 3 marked with a double arrow. The direction of movement of the optical element 20th corresponds to the direction of extension of the linear sections 22nd of the optical element 20th . The sub-units of the movement device 40 are synchronized in terms of direction and speed of movement, so that the optical element 20th can be displaced linearly in its entirety without mechanical stress occurring within the optical element. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that only one of the sub-units comprises a drive device. The second sub-unit is used with its first and second moving element 41 , 42 only the correct guidance and mechanical stabilization of the moving optical element 20th .

The light generating devices 30th are not together with the optical element in this embodiment 20th movable. The light of the light generating devices 30th is via a coupling surface 23 of the linear sections 22nd into the optical element 20th coupled. The coupling surface 23 is the respective light-generating device 30th facing and at least in the area that extends along the respective light-generating device 30th moved, just. So has the linear movement of the optical element 20th does not affect the quality of the coupling of the light from the light-generating devices 30th into the optical element 20th . However, it is also conceivable that the light-generating devices 30th together with the optical element 20th move.

4th shows a plan view of a further embodiment of the steering wheel assembly 1 . This differs from that of the 1 particular in the fact that they have two optical elements 20th (instead of an optical element). Every optical element 20th is arched ( 5 ). The arched optical elements 20th are arranged essentially in one plane, with the arches in the plane being curved outwards. The optical elements 20th a front and a rear side, each of which is flat and parallel to one another and to the plane of extension of the arc-shaped optical elements 20th extend. The curved inner and outer sides extend essentially perpendicular to the plane of extension of the arcuate optical elements 20th . The arched optical elements 20th thus have a square (rectangular or square) cross-section. Others too Cross-sectional shapes, such as a round cross-section, are conceivable.

The arched optical elements 20th are in particular designed in the shape of a circular arc when viewed in the extension plane and are arranged in relation to one another in such a way that their respective center points coincide at one point. Furthermore, the arc-shaped optical elements 20th the same, in each case constant radius of curvature, so that the arc-shaped optical elements 20th are arranged on a common circular path. However, the radii of curvature of the arcuate optical elements 20th also be different. It is also conceivable that the radius of curvature of an arcuate optical element 20th is not constant. In this embodiment the arcuate optical elements are 20th the same length, i.e. their extension along the curve between the ends is the same. However, the arcuate optical elements 20th also be of different lengths.

The optical elements are also in this embodiment 20th each movable on the steering wheel 10 arranged. For this purpose, the steering wheel assembly 1 for each optical element 20th a movement device 40 on. The movement devices 40 are constructed identically. A movement device 40 is in a side view in 6th shown. The movement device 40 comprises a first moving element 41 that is at the back of the arcuate optical element 20th is arranged, and a second moving element 42 that on the steering wheel 10 (more precisely on one of the rocker switches 14th ) is arranged.

The first movement element 41 is designed as a gear section which extends in an arc shape along the entire arcuate optical element 20th on the flat back of the arcuate optical element 20th extends so that it is not visible to the driver. Alternatively, the gear section 41 on the flat front side, the curved inside or the curved outside of the optical element 20th extend. Furthermore, the gear section can only extend over a section of the arcuate optical element 20th extend. The second movement element 42 is designed as a gear that is rotatable about an axis of rotation and with the gear section 41 is engaged. By a drive device such as a motor (not shown), the gear 42 driven and set in rotation. The rotating gear 42 causes the gear section to rotate 41 and the optical element attached thereto 20th along a section of the circular path on which the arcuate optical elements 20th are arranged. The direction of rotation is in the 4th to 6th marked with a curved double arrow. The amount of rotation of the optical elements 20th along the circular path depends on the length of the gear sections 41 along the circular path.

In addition, another second movement element 42 behind the steering wheel spoke 13 be provided, which can be found in 4th is in the 6 o'clock position. This additional second movement element 42 can also be designed as a gear, which optionally with the gear section 41 of one or the other arcuate optical element 20th can be engaged. So can either one of the two arc-shaped optical elements 20th simultaneously via two second movement elements 42 on the steering wheel 10 be movably arranged. Depending on the design of the arched optical elements 20th (In particular the length of the gearwheel sections along the circular path on which the arcuate optical elements 20th are arranged) and depending on the distance between the second movement elements 42 from each other along this circular path it can be provided that the arc-shaped optical elements 20th are each completely movable on the circular path and their gear sections 41 always with at least one of the three second movement elements 42 are engaged. That is, a gear section 41 before it no longer engages a second moving element 42 stands, already with that in the direction of movement of the optical element 20th next second moving element 20th is in engagement, so that it is transitionally with two second movement elements 42 is engaged.

In general, an arcuate optical element with a first movement element on the one hand and two or more second movement elements on the steering wheel side on the other hand can be provided, which are arranged along a circular path at a distance from one another that is smaller than the extent of the first movement element along this circular path. The arcuate optical element can thus move along the entire circular path and be in engagement with the two or more second movement elements one after the other.

In the embodiment from 4th the steering wheel assembly has two light generating devices 30th on, with each arcuate optical element 20th a light generating device 30th is assigned so that the light of the light-generating devices 30th by means of a coupling device 23 one optical element each 20th is coupled. The coupling device 23 may include a lens that captures the light from the light generating device 30th focuses, and the light so over a very small surface of the optical element 20th almost punctiform in the optical element 20th entry. In 5 are the light-generating devices 30th arranged such that the light passes through a curved surface of the outside of the arcuate optical elements 20th into the optical elements 20th is coupled. As the arcuate optical elements 20th each have a constant radius of curvature, it is not necessary (but possible) here for the light-generating devices to be located together with the optical elements 20th move to a constant quality of coupling of the light of the light-generating devices 30th into the moving optical elements 20th to guarantee. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the light-generating devices 30th are arranged in such a way that the light passes over the flat front side (rear side), the rear side (front side) of the arcuate optical elements 20th with the first moving element 41 opposite, in the arcuate optical elements 20th is coupled. In this alternative, too, it is not necessary (but possible) for the light-generating devices to be located together with the optical elements 20th move.

Another embodiment can be provided that differs from that of the 4th to 6th the only difference is that the steering wheel arrangement 1 a closed or interrupted ring-shaped optical element 20th (and not two arc-shaped optical elements) comprises, along the circular path that the annular optical element 20th describes, is rotatable. The steering wheel assembly includes two movement devices. Alternatively, the steering wheel arrangement can also comprise only one or more than two movement device (s).

7th shows a plan view of a further embodiment of the steering wheel assembly 1 . This differs from that of the 1 in particular that the optical element 20th Is rod-shaped and extends along a longitudinal axis A. The rod-shaped optical element 20th can have a rectangular, square, round or any other cross-section transverse to the longitudinal axis. The rod-shaped optical element 20th is at the central area 11 of the steering wheel 10 movably arranged. Alternatively, the optical element 20th (or a variety of such optical elements 20th ) be arranged on the steering wheel rim.

In the variant of the 8th has the steering wheel assembly 1 out 7th a movement device 40 according to the embodiment 3 on: a rack is the first moving element 41 on the rod-shaped optical element 20th arranged and extends along the longitudinal axis A, while a standing with the rack in engagement rotatable gear as a second movement element 42 at the central area 11 of the steering wheel 10 is arranged. In this alternative, the gear wheel rotates 42 to a linear movement of the rack 41 and so of the rod-shaped optical element 20th along its longitudinal axis A.

In the variant of the 9 has the steering wheel assembly 1 out 7th a movement device 40 with an external thread as the first movement element 41 on. As a second movement element 42 a complementary internal thread (not shown) is provided with the external thread 41 is engaged. The movement device also has a drive device which is suitable for acting on the optical element 20th exert a force along the longitudinal axis A while the second moving element 42 firmly on the steering wheel 10 is attached. Due to the engaged external and internal threads 41 , 42 can the optical element 20th Perform a screwing movement under the action of force of the drive device, that is to say a linear movement along the longitudinal axis A and a rotary movement about the longitudinal axis A. The optical element 20th can (outside the section containing the first moving element 41 forms) have a rectangular, square, round or any other cross-section transverse to the longitudinal axis. In particular if the cross section is not rotationally symmetrical, the optical element can 20th have differently designed side surfaces. A specific side surface can thus be turned towards the driver as a result of the rotational movement, the individual side surfaces of the rod-shaped optical element 20th are each specific to vehicle information. It is also conceivable that the combination of the height of the outstanding optical element 20th and the side surface facing the driver is specific for vehicle information. In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the rod-shaped optical element can change when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the optical element. Thus, viewed along the longitudinal axis of the optical element, the side surface (s) also change, which then become visible depending on the height of the protruding optical element.

10 shows a for the steering wheel assembly 7th alternative optical element 20th for placement on the central area 11 of the steering wheel 10 . This optical element 20th is curved and so with respect to the steering wheel 10 can be arranged that the curvature of the optical element 20th lies in a plane which is essentially perpendicular to the plane in which the steering wheel rim 12th lies. As the first movement element 41 is a gear section 41 provided accordingly 8th with a gear as a second movement element 42 can be engaged.

In each of the embodiments, the light enters the light generating devices 30th via a coupling device 23 into the optical element 20th one so that light is the light-generating Devices only via the optical element 20th can be delivered.

The embodiments shown in the figures have gears, racks and threads as the first and second movement element. Alternatively, the first and the second movement element can be designed as elements of a roller drive, for example as rubber rollers.

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 102008057332 A1 [0002]

Claims (14)

Steering wheel arrangement (1) for a motor vehicle, with a steering wheel (10) and at least one optical element (20) which is designed to emit light, the at least one optical element (20) being arranged on the steering wheel (10), thereby characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) can be moved independently of a movement of the steering wheel (10) or a part thereof relative to a stationary vehicle component of the vehicle interior, and that the at least one optical element (20) can assume at least one position in which the light emitted by the at least one optical element (20) and the at least one optical element (20) emitting the light can be seen when the steering wheel arrangement (1) is arranged as intended in the vehicle and viewed from the driver's perspective. Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 1 , characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) is arranged on the steering wheel (10) in such a way that the light emitted by the at least one optical element (20) is directly, without additional deflection means provided for deflecting the emitted light , when the steering wheel arrangement (1) is properly arranged in the vehicle, it spreads in the direction of a driver. Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that for the movable arrangement of the at least one optical element (20) on the steering wheel (10), the steering wheel arrangement (10) comprises a movement device (40) which has a first movement element (41) which is attached to the at least one optical element ( 20) is arranged, and a second movement element (42) which is arranged on the steering wheel (10), wherein the first movement element (41) and the second movement element (42) are in engagement with each other. Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 3 , characterized in that the movement device (40) comprises a drive device which is designed and arranged to set the second movement element (42) in motion. Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 3 or 4th , characterized in that the first movement element (41) and the second movement element (42) are in engagement with one another in such a way that a movement of the second movement element (42) causes a movement of the first movement element (41). Steering wheel assembly (1) according to one of the Claims 3 to 5 , characterized in that the first moving element (41) comprises a rack and the second moving element (42) comprises a gear. Steering wheel assembly (1) according to one of the Claims 3 to 6th , characterized in that the first movement element (41) is arranged along a section of the at least one optical element (20) or along the entire optical element (20). Steering wheel arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) is ring-shaped or has at least one arcuate section (21). Steering wheel assembly (1) according to one of the Claims 1 to 7th , characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) has two arcuate sections (21) which are connected to one another at their ends via a linear section (22). Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 9 and one of the Claims 3 to 7th , characterized in that the first movement element (41) is arranged on one or two of the linear sections (22) of the at least one optical element (20). Steering wheel arrangement (1) according to claim one of Claims 1 to 7th , characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) is rod-shaped and extends along a longitudinal axis (A), the at least one optical element (20) viewed along its longitudinal axis (A) in particular a changing or constant cross-sectional area to the longitudinal axis (A). Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 11 , characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) is displaceable along the longitudinal axis (A) and / or rotatable about the longitudinal axis (A). Steering wheel assembly (1) Claim 12 , characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) has a cross section transverse to the longitudinal axis (A), which is not rotationally symmetrical, and differently designed side surfaces, so that by rotating the at least one optical element (20) about the longitudinal axis (A ) a certain side face can be turned towards the driver, the individual side faces of the optical element (20) each being specific for vehicle information. Steering wheel arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one optical element (20) emits light over its entire surface or only over one or more section (s) of its surface.

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