GB2560381A

GB2560381A - Control device for a vehicle

Info

Publication number: GB2560381A
Application number: GB1703880.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Cripps Gary; Manuel Correia Oliveira Rui; Godding Chris
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2017-03-10
Filing date: 2017-03-10
Publication date: 2018-09-12
Also published as: GB201703880D0

Abstract

A control device for a vehicle is provided, the control device comprising a steering wheel 2 and an actuator mounted on the steering wheel 2 for controlling at least one function of the vehicle. The steering wheel comprises a rim 4, at least two spokes 8a&b connecting the rim to a hub 6, and at least one switch element (40 Fig. 3a/b/c) actuatable by the actuator 20 to control the at least one function of the vehicle. The actuator 20 comprises first and second stem portions 22a/b arranged respectively alongside spokes 8a/b of the steering wheel, and an actuation arm 24 connecting the stem portions 22a/b and extending between the spokes 8a/b and adjacent to the rim 4 of the steering wheel 2. Another embodiment of the invention applies this steering wheel to the steering of a water craft, be it boat or ship, with the switches controlling the hydrofoils of the craft.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Control device for a vehicle Abstract Title: Steering wheel rim and spoke switch (57) A control device for a vehicle is provided, the control device comprising a steering wheel 2 and an actuator mounted on the steering wheel 2 for controlling at least one function of the vehicle.

The steering wheel comprises a rim 4, at least two spokes 8a&b connecting the rim to a hub 6, and at least one switch element (40 Fig. 3a/b/c) actuatable by the actuator 20 to control the at least one function of the vehicle.

The actuator 20 comprises first and second stem portions 22a/b arranged respectively alongside spokes 8a/b of the steering wheel, and an actuation arm 24 connecting the stem portions 22a/b and extending between the spokes 8a/ b and adjacent to the rim 4 of the steering wheel 2.

Another embodiment of the invention applies this steering wheel to the steering of a water craft, be it boat or ship, with the switches controlling the hydrofoils of the craft.

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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FIG. 1 (PRIOR ART)

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FIG. 2a

FIG. 2c

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FIG. 3a

FIG. 3b

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FIG. 3c

FIG. 4

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FIG. 5a

FIG. 5b

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FIG. 6a

FIG. 6b

CONTROL DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a control device for a vehicle, particularly for a watercraft; and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a control device comprising a steering wheel, an actuator and a switch element actuatable by the actuator. Aspects of the invention relate to a control device, to an actuator for a control device, to a steering wheel comprising an actuator, and to a vehicle comprising a control device.

BACKGROUND

Steering wheels for vehicles that include one or more switches on the rim or hub are known in the art. The switches may be used to control one or more functions of the vehicle. When the vehicle is a boat, the steering wheel (helm) may be provided with multiple switches associated with the same function, in order to make it easy for the helmsman to control the function while the helm is in different rotational positions. Examples of functions that may be controllable using switches on a helm include the angle of hydrofoils on a boat. Such control devices according to the prior art present many disadvantages. Firstly, relatively small switches located at discrete locations around the rim of a steering wheel or helm may be difficult for the user to locate with precision. Additionally, a user may experience difficulty in identifying whether a switch has been successfully actuated as the haptic feedback may be limited. While larger, more visible switches may alleviate some of these issues, they also carry a larger risk of being accidentally actuated, either by a user or passenger, or even by an object or a strong wave, if the control device is on a boat.

At least in certain embodiments, the present invention has been devised to mitigate or overcome at least some of the above-mentioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The disclosure provides a control device for a vehicle, comprising a steering wheel, an actuator mounted on the steering wheel, and a switch element on the steering wheel, actuatable by the actuator. The actuator comprises stem portions alongside a first and second spoke of a steering wheel and an actuation arm connecting the first portions and movable between positions in which the switch element provides a an output to control a function. The invention provides a means for controlling a function of a vehicle using an actuator that has a large area of actuation while not significantly obstructing the use of the steering wheel itself and having limited risk of accidental actuation.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a control device for a vehicle, the control device comprising a steering wheel and an actuator mounted on the steering wheel for controlling at least one function of the vehicle; the steering wheel comprising a rim, at least two spokes connecting the rim to a hub, and at least one switch element actuatable by the actuator to control the at least one function of the vehicle. The actuator comprises first and second stem portions, wherein at least a section of the first and second stem portion is arranged respectively alongside first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel, and an actuation arm connecting between the first and second stem portions and configured to extend substantially between the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel and adjacent to the rim of the steering wheel. The actuator is coupled to the steering wheel via at least one coupling connection provided on the hub and/or spokes of the steering wheel so as to allow the actuation arm to move between a first position in which the switch element is in a first operational state and a second position in which the switch element is in a second operational state.

The first operational state may correspond to the provision of a first function and the second operational state may correspond to a second function. Optionally, the first position may be a rest position in which the switch element is not activated and the second position may be a first actuation position in which the switch element is activated.

In embodiments, the at least one coupling connection is a pivot connection to allow the actuator to be pivoted between the first and second positions.

In some embodiments, the at least one switch element comprises at least one microswitch. In some embodiments, the at least one switch element comprises a pair of switch elements, and the actuator is movable from the first position in a first direction to the second position and in a second direction to a third position, the second direction opposite the first direction, and wherein the second and the third positions activate different ones of the pair of switch elements. Optionally, the first position may be a rest position in which the switch elements are not activated.

In embodiments, the actuation arm of the actuator is arranged adjacent to a hub-facing side of the rim of the steering wheel.

In some embodiments, the first and second stem portions of the actuator are arranged along opposing faces of the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel. The first and second stem portions may be arranged generally parallel to opposing faces of said spokes. In embodiments, a section of the first and second stem portions is arranged generally parallel to opposing faces of the first and second adjacent spokes.

In embodiments, the actuation arm of the actuator is at least partially located within a recess in the rim and/or in the spokes of the steering wheel. For example, the actuation arm of the actuator may be located at least partially within a recess in a hubfacing side of the rim, and the at least one switch element may be located within the recess.

In embodiments, the first and second stem portions extend alongside the first and second adjacent spokes substantially between the rim and the hub of the steering wheel.

Optionally, the actuator may further comprise a hub segment connecting between the first and second stem portions and configured to extend substantially between the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel and adjacent to the hub of the steering wheel. In such embodiments, the control device may comprise a coupling connection between the hub and the hub segment of the actuator. Alternatively, the control device may comprise a first and a second coupling connection between the hub and the hub segment of the actuator.

In embodiments, the control device comprises a first coupling connection arranged between the first stem and the first spoke of the steering wheel, and a second coupling connection arranged between the second stem and the second spoke of the steering wheel.

Optionally, the coupling connections in this and any other aspect of the invention may be pivot connections.

At least one switch element may be mounted on the rim of the steering wheel at a position substantially equidistant between the first and second adjacent spokes. At least one switch element may instead or additionally be mounted on the rim of the steering wheel in proximity to at least one of the first and second adjacent spokes.

In embodiments, the rim has an enlarged portion adjoining at least one of the first and second adjacent spokes, and the at least one switch element is mounted on the enlarged portion. In embodiments, the first and/or second adjacent spoke(s) has an enlarged portion in the region proximal to the rim, and the at least one switch element is mounted on the enlarged portion. In embodiments, at least two switch elements are provided, a first switch element mounted in proximity to the first one of the two adjacent spokes and a second switch element mounted in proximity to the second one of the two adjacent spokes.

In embodiments, the control device comprises a plurality of switch elements, wherein two or more switch elements are actuatable simultaneously by movement of the actuator. In embodiments, each switch element of the plurality of switch elements comprises a pair of switches, and the actuator is movable from the first position to second and third positions, the second position to activate a first one of the pair of switches, and the third position to activate a second one of the pair of switches.

The control device may optionally comprise one or more guide elements mounted on the rim and/or spokes of the steering wheel, the guide elements being arranged to restrict the movement of the actuator. In embodiments, the control device comprises one or more guide elements mounted on the rim and/or spokes of the steering wheel, the guide elements being arranged to allow movement of the actuator substantially only between the first position, the second position and optional third position.

In some embodiments, the control device comprises two actuators, a first actuator coupled to the steering wheel between adjacent spokes defining a first segment of the steering wheel, and a second actuator coupled to the steering wheel between adjacent spokes defining a second, different segment of the steering wheel.

In embodiments, the steering wheel comprises at least three spokes.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an actuator for a control device of a vehicle, the control device comprising a steering wheel comprising a rim, at least two spokes connecting the rim to a hub, and at least one switch element actuatable by the actuator to control at least one function of the vehicle; the actuator comprising first and second stem portions configured to be arranged respectively alongside first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel, and an actuation arm connecting the first and second stem portions and extending substantially between the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel and adjacent to the rim of the steering wheel, in use; and wherein the actuator is adapted to be coupled to the steering wheel via at least one coupling connection provided on the hub and/or spokes of the steering wheel, the coupling connection, in use, to allow the actuation arm to move between a first position in which the switch element is in a first operational state and a second position in which the switch element is in a second operational state. Optionally, the first position may be a rest position in which the switch element is not activated and the second position may be a first actuation position in which the switch element is activated.

The actuator and/or steering wheel of this aspect of the invention may comprise any of the features described in relation to the preceding aspect of the invention.

The actuator or control device of the invention may be for a vehicle which is a road vehicle or a watercraft. The vehicle may be a boat or a ship and the steering wheel may be a helm.

According to yet a further aspect, there is provided a vehicle comprising the control device or the actuator of any aspect or embodiment of the invention. The vehicle may be a road vehicle, such as a passenger car, or a watercraft, such as a boat or ship, which may optionally comprise one or more hydrofoils and wherein the switch element outputs an electric signal to, in use control the angle of hydrofoils.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a control device for a vehicle according to the prior art;

Figures 2a, 2b and 2c show schematically a control device according to embodiments of the invention;

Figures 3a, 3b and 3c show in more detail possible configurations of switch elements according to embodiments of the invention;

Figure 4 shows in more detail a guiding element according to embodiments of the invention;

Figures 5a and 5b show examples of coupling connections according to embodiments of the invention; and

Figures 6a and 6b show examples of vehicles comprising the control device or actuator, according to embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 shows a control device for a vehicle according to the prior art. The control device comprises a steering wheel 2, comprising a rim 4, a hub 6, and a plurality of spokes 8a, 8b, 8c. In the example shown, the steering wheel 2 is a helm for a boat. A plurality of switches 12a, 12b are provided on the hub, and a plurality of switches 10a, 10b are provided on the rim of the steering wheel. The switches 12a, 12b and 10a, 10b may be used to control one or more functions of the vehicle. As depicted, a plurality of switches 10a is provided. This allows for a level of redundancy in the functions controlled by the switches, for example, all of the switches 10a may be used to control the same function. This may be useful for example if the steering wheel is the helm of a boat, in order to make it easy for the helmsman to control the function associated with the redundant switches while the helm is in different rotational positions. Examples of functions that may be controllable using switches on a helm include the angle of hydrofoils on a boat.

Such control devices according to the prior art present many disadvantages.

Firstly, relatively small switches located at discrete locations around the rim of a steering wheel or helm may be difficult for the user to locate with precision. This may result in missed or involuntary actuation of the switches, the consequences of which may be serious if the functions controlled by the switches are critical. Additionally, a user may experience difficulty in identifying whether a switch has been successfully actuated as the haptic feedback may be limited. This problem may be enhanced if the user is wearing gloves, operating in harsh weather, and/or unable to visually check that the switch has been actuating while performing the movement. While larger, more visible switches may alleviate some of these issues, they also carry a larger risk of being accidentally actuated, either by a user or passenger, or even by an object or a strong wave, if the control device is on a boat. Again, the consequences of such an accidental actuation may be serious, if the function controlled by the switch or switches is critical.

Figures 2a, 2b and 2c show schematically a control device according to embodiments of the invention. The control devices shown in Figures 2a, 2b and 2c comprise a steering wheel 2’, the steering wheel comprising a rim 4’, and at least two spokes 8a’, 8b’, 8c’, 8d’ connecting the rim to a hub 6’. Although a circular rim is illustrated herein for simplicity, as used herein it will be appreciated that the rim 4’ of any aspect or embodiment of the invention may be any suitable shape (e.g. it is not limited to being circular) and may be full or partial. In some embodiments, and within the scope of the claims, a partial rim may be provided, for example omitting a section between two adjacent spokes of the steering wheel. As the skilled person would understand, the curve of the rim section between each spoke, where a rim section is provided, may be different. Alternatively the rim may comprise a polygonal or an irregular shape. Further, although in the depicted embodiments the hub 6’ is arranged substantially centrally within the rim 4’, the hub 6’ may in fact be off-centred, and in particular may be located anywhere within the area defined by the rim or partial rim 4’. As the skilled person would understand, any appropriate shape, configuration and materials may be used for the rim, spokes and hub of the steering wheel of the invention, and are not be described in further detail here.

The control device also comprises an actuator 20. The actuator 20 comprises a first and a second stem portion 22a, 22b, which are connected by an actuation arm 24. At least a section 26a of the first stem portion is arranged generally alongside the first spoke 8a’, and at least a section 26b of the second stem portion is arranged generally alongside the second spoke 8b’. In the example shown in Figure 2a, section 26a comprises most of the length of stem portion 22a, and section 26b comprises about two thirds of the length of stem portion 22b. As the skilled person would understand, the section 26a and 26b may be of the same or different sizes, and may represent a major or minor section of the respective stem portions. The actuation arm 24 extends between the first and second stem portions 22a, 22b, in the region of the stem portions 22a, 22b proximal to the rim 4’ of the steering wheel. In the embodiments shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the actuation arm extends substantially adjacent to the rim 4’ of the steering wheel 2’. However, as the skilled person would understand, this does not necessarily need to be the case. In particular, in some embodiments, the actuation arm 24 may extend alongside the rim 4’ of the steering wheel 2’ over only a section of the actuation arm 24; i.e. such that the whole of the actuation arm is not closely adjacent to the rim. For example, the actuation arm 24 may extend alongside the rim 4’ over a section proximal to the first and/or second spoke 8a’, 8b’. The actuation arm 24 may instead or in addition extend alongside the rim 4’ over a section substantially equidistant between the first and second stem portions 22a, 22b. In the embodiment shown in Figures 2a and 2b, the actuator 20 additionally comprises a hub segment 28. The hub segment 28 connects the first and second stem portions 22a, 22b in a region proximal to the hub 6’ of the steering wheel 2’. The hub segment 28 may extend substantially adjacent to the hub 6’. In the embodiments shown in Figures 2b and 2c, the actuation arm extends alongside the rim 4’ and is located partially within a recess in the rim 4’, as will be further explained below. In embodiments, the actuation arm 24 may be located partially within a recess of the rim 4’ over a section of the actuation arm 24.

The actuator 20 is coupled to the steering wheel via at least one coupling connection 30. In some embodiments, the actuator 20 is coupled to the steering wheel via at least one coupling connection 30 between the hub 6’ of the steering wheel and the hub segment 28 (see e.g. Figures 2a, 2b). In the embodiment shown on Figure 2a, the actuator 20 is coupled to the steering wheel via one coupling connection 30 located on the hub 6’ of the steering wheel. For example, the coupling connection 30 may be located on the hub 6’ at a position substantially equidistant between the first and second spokes 8a’, 8b’. In the embodiment shown on Figure 2b, the actuator 20 is coupled to the steering wheel via two coupling connections 30 located on the hub 6’. In the embodiment shown, the coupling connections 30 are located on the hub 6’ proximal to the first and second spokes 8a’, 8b’ respectively. In some embodiments, for example in the embodiment shown on Figure 2c, the actuator 20 is coupled to the steering wheel via two coupling connections 30, arranged respectively between a spoke and each adjacent stem portion; e.g. between the first spoke 8a’ and the first stem portion 22a, and the second spoke 8b’ and the second stem portion 22b. When two coupling connections 30 are present, the coupling connections 30 may be located at symmetrical locations on the hub 6’, or on first and second spokes (e.g. 8a’, 8b’).

The coupling connection(s) 30 allow the actuation arm 24 to move between at least a first and a second position. For example, in the embodiments shown in Figures 2a, 2b and 2c, the coupling connection(s) 30 may allow the actuation arm 24 to move towards and/or away from the user, in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the steering wheel.

In some embodiments, as can be seen in Figure 2a, the control device additionally comprises one or more optional extensions or enlarged portions 32. Enlarged portions 32 may be provided on the rim 4’ and/or on the first and/or second spokes 8a’, 8b’. Where enlarged portion(s) 32 is/are provided, the actuation arm 24 and/or first and second stems (22a, 22b) may partially overlap with the surface of the enlarged portion(s). For example, in the device shown on Figure 2a, the stem portions extend around the hub-facing sides of the enlarged portions 32, and the actuation arm 24 partially overlaps at its extremities with the enlarged portions.

As can be seen in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, the control device comprises at least one switch element 40, which is actuatable by the actuator 20. The switch element 40 controls at least one function of the vehicle. For example, when the vehicle is a boat, the switch 40 may be used to control the angle of the hydrofoil(s). In such cases, actuating the switch 40 may change the angle of the hydrofoil(s) by a predetermined amount. In the embodiment, depicted in Figure 3a, the at least one switch element 40 is located on an enlarged portion 32 of the rim and/or spokes. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 3b and 3c, the at least one switch element 40 is located on the rim 4’ of the steering wheel 2’. It will be appreciated, however, that in other embodiments the at least one switch element 40 may be located on the first spoke 8a’, the second spoke 8b’, the rim 4’ and/or an enlarged portion 32 of the steering wheel, such that movement of the actuation arm 24 between at least the first and the second position may interact with the switch 40 in such a way as to provide a first and second function.

For example, the first position may be a rest position in which the switch 40 is deactivated (i.e. OFF) and the second position may be an actuated position, in which the switch 40 is activated (i.e. ON). For example, if the switch 40 controls the hydrofoil(s) of a boat, the first position of the actuation arm 24 may correspond to a function where the angle of the hydrofoils is not changed, and the second position of the actuation arm 24 may correspond to a position where a signal is sent (via actuation of the switch 40) to modify the angle of the hydrofoil(s). For example an actuation of the actuation arm to the second position may send a signal to alter the hydrofoil angle by a set increment amount.

In some embodiments, the actuation arm 24 is configured to be of a dimension sufficient for a user to contact and move the actuation arm between the first and second position. In some embodiments, as can be seen on Figures 2a, 2b and 2c, the actuation arm 24 has a substantially constant width over the length of the actuation arm 24 (wherein the width refers to the dimension of the actuation arm parallel to the plane of the steering wheel and along the axis between the rim and the hub). In other embodiments, not depicted, the width of the actuation arm may vary over the length of the actuation arm 24. In some embodiments, the width of the actuation arm 24 (whether constant or variable) is such that the area defined between the rim 4’, the spokes 8a’, 8b’ and the hub 6’ is not covered by more than 50%, more than 30%, more than 20%, more than 10% or more than 5%. In this way visibility through the steering wheel (particularly in the area between the rim, spokes and hub) is well preserved to maintain good drivability for the user. In some embodiments, as depicted in Figure 2a, the actuation arm has a plurality of cut-out portions to reduce the surface area of the arm. In such embodiments, visibility through the control device is improved and accidental actuation of the control device, e.g. by strong weather (wind, water), is reduced, while the size I area of the actuation arm 24 that can be contacted by a user to activate the actuator remains sufficient for ready activation of the actuator. In some embodiments, the actuation arm 24, stem portions 22a, 22b and/or hub portion 28 may sit partially within a recess in the rim 4’, spokes 8a’, 8b’ and I or hub 6’. This may additionally offer some protection for elements of the control system, for example the switch(es) 40. In some embodiments, the actuation arm 24 may sit partially within a recess 42 of the rim 4’, as can be seen on Figure 3b, the portion of the actuation arm 24 within the recess 42 being dimensioned to actuate switches 40 upon movement of the actuation arm. In embodiments where the actuation arms sits partially within a recess 42 of the rim 4’, the portion of the actuation arm 24 located outside of the recess may be of a dimension sufficient for a user to contact and move the actuation arm between the first and second position. Depending on the dimensions of the rim 4’, the portion of the actuation arm 24 that sits within the recess 42 of the rim 4’ may represent about a tenth to a third of the width of the actuation arm 24. In some embodiments, the actuation arm 24, or the portion of the actuation arm that does not fit within a recess 42 of the rim 4’, as the case may be, may be profiled for ease of use. For example, as shown on Figures 3b and 5a, the actuation arm 24 may comprise a ridge along at least a portion of its length. In some embodiments, the stem portions 22a, 22b may be substantially flat, as can be seen on Figure 5a.

As the skilled person would understand, the dimensions of the stem portions may vary depending on the location of the connection points, as well as the dimensions and geometry of the steering wheel. The dimensions of the actuation arm may also vary depending on the dimensions and geometry of the steering wheel. Additionally, the dimensions of the actuation arm may be chosen so as to achieve a desired compromise between ease of use and space I visibility reduction through the steering wheel by virtue of the actuation arm. Such considerations may have different impact depending on the vehicle on which the control device is used, and hence the choice of dimensions may prioritise visibility, low risk of accidental actuation, stronger haptic feedback, etc. depending on the intended use.

In some embodiments, the control device comprises multiple actuators 20, each of the multiple actuators being arranged between pairs of consecutive spokes 8a’, 8b’, 8c’, 8d’. In the example shown in Figure 2a, the control device comprises two actuators 20, one between first spoke 8a’ and second spoke 8b’, and one between second spoke 8b’ and third spoke 8c’. In the examples shown in Figures 2b and 2c, the control device comprises two actuators 20, one between first spoke 8a’ and second spoke 8b’, and one between third spoke 8c’ and fourth spoke 8d’. For the sake of simplicity, a single actuator was described above for each control device shown on Figures 2a, 2b and 2c. As the person skilled in the art would understand, one or more of the actuators described above may be present on a control device according to the invention, and each may individually have some or all of the features described in relation to Figures 2a, 2b, and 2c, including the features of the associated connection points 30 and switches 40. In particular, the embodiment shown on Figure 2a comprises stem portions 22a, 22b located alongside spokes 8a’, 8b’ over a section 26a 26b of the stem portions 22a, 22b, an actuation arm 24 located alongside the rim and partially overlapping with enlarged portions 32 supporting switches 40, and a hub segment 28 connected to the hub 6’ of the steering wheel via a coupling connection 30. The embodiment shown on Figure 2b comprises stem portions 22a, 22b located alongside spokes 8a’, 8b’, an actuation arm 24 located alongside the rim 4’ and partially within a recess of the rim 4’, so as to actuate switches 40 located within the recess, and a hub segment 28 connected to the hub 6’ of the steering wheel via two coupling connections 30 (although a single coupling connection as shown in Figure 2a is also envisaged for use with this embodiment). The embodiment shown on Figure 2c comprises stem portions 22a, 22b located alongside spokes 8a’, 8b’, an actuation arm 24 located alongside the rim 4’ and partially within a recess of the rim 4’, so as to actuate switches 40 located within the recess, and coupling connections 30 between each stem portion 22a, 22b and the adjacent spoke 8a, 8b. In example embodiments where one or more of the actuators described above are present, a control device may comprise an actuator as described in relation to Figure 2b, as well as an actuator as described in relation to Figures 2a or 2c, or any other combination of actuators according to the embodiments of Figures 2a, 2b and 2c. In some embodiments, the control device comprises multiple actuators 20, each of the multiple actuators arranged between pairs of consecutive spokes 8a’, 8b’, 8c’, 8d’, the pairs of consecutive spokes between which each actuator is located being themselves non-consecutive. For example, Figures 2b and 2c show a control device with two actuators 20, the first actuator being located between spokes 8a’ and 8b’, and the second actuator being located between spokes 8c’ and 8d’. On the other hand, Figure 2a shows a control device with two actuators 20 located between consecutive pairs of consecutive spokes 8a’, 8b’, and 8b’, 8c’.

Figures 3a, 3b and 3c show different configurations of the switch or switches 40. In some embodiments, at least one switch is located on an enlarged portion 32. In such embodiments, at least a portion of the actuation arm 24 overlaps with the enlarged portion, such that movement of the actuation arm 24 activates the switch element 40 supported on the enlarged portion. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3a, a switch 40 is located on an enlarged portion 32 of the wheel 4’. In some embodiments where an enlarged portion is provided, the enlarged portion may additionally support a guiding structure 44, such as a guiding pin. The guiding pin may be a simple cylindrical element. The guiding pin locates within a guide hole in the corresponding portion of the actuation arm (not shown) so as to guide I control the movement of the actuation arm 24 in order to restrict it to allowed directions. In some embodiments, as depicted, the enlarged portion 32 comprises one or more biasing members 46, for example in the forms of springs. The biasing members 46 are configured to automatically return the actuation arm 24 to the first position after it has been moved to the second position by a user.

As depicted in Figure 3b, in some embodiments, the actuation arm 24 is located partially within a recess 42 of the rim 4’ of the steering wheel. In embodiments where the actuation arm is located partially within a recess 42, a guiding structure 44 may be present within said recess, as shown in Figure 4. The guiding structure may comprise a guiding pin 48, and the guiding pin 48 may optionally be held within a block element 50 inserted within the recess 42. In other embodiments, not depicted, a guiding structure may additionally or alternatively be provided on one or both of the first and second spokes. Whether it is supported on an enlarged portion, on the rim, spokes or the recess, the guiding structure 44 may comprise a metallic or polymeric structure. In embodiments where the actuation arm 24 is located partially within a recess 42, biasing members 46 may also be located within the recess for interaction with corresponding guide holes provided in the actuation arm.

In some embodiments, the switch element 40 comprises a pair of switch elements 40a, 40b, and the actuator is movable in a first direction from the first position to the second position and in a second direction from the first position to a third position. In such embodiments, the second direction is opposite to the first direction. In such embodiments, the second and the third positions activate different ones of the pair of switch elements 40a, 40b. For example, as can be seen on Figures 3b and 3c, the actuation arm 24 may be movable in a first direction to actuate switch 40a, and in a second direction to activate switch 40b. In embodiments wherein the switch element 40 is located on an enlarged portion 32, a pair of switch element 40a, 40b may be provided such that a switch is located on either side (top and bottom I above and below the plane of the steering wheel as depicted) of the enlarged portion. In such embodiments, the actuation arm may comprise a section overhanging respective sides of the enlarged portion, and may be movable in a first direction towards one side of the enlarged portion and in a second direction towards the second, opposite side of the enlarged portion.

In some embodiments, actuation of switch element 40a may be associated with a different vehicle function to that associated with actuation of switch element 40b. In some embodiments, the switch elements within a pair may be associated with the same function of the vehicle but may provide for different controls of said function. For example, actuation of switch element 40a may cause movement of the hydrofoil(s) of a boat in one angular direction, whereas actuation of switch element 40b may cause movement of the hydrofoil(s) in a different angular direction. Alternatively, actuation of a switch element 40a may control the same function as does actuation of switch element 40b. However, it is envisaged that the resulting effect may be different, for example, a different intensity of control of the function, i.e. actuation of a switch element 40a may result in an angle increment of a hydrofoil of a first amount and actuation of switch element 40b may result in an angle increment of a hydrofoil of a second amount.

The control devices of the invention may comprise a plurality of switches or pairs of switches. For example, Figure 3c shows a switch element comprising two pairs of switch elements 40a, 40b, each pair comprising two individual switches. Redundancy in the switches may allow for a more confident identification of the actuation of the device, and may provide additional robustness to failure of individual switches. In some embodiments, the spokes and/or rim comprise a plurality of enlarged portions and each enlarged portion supports one or more switches. In some embodiments, the control device comprises a plurality of switches within the recess of the rim and/or spokes where the actuation arm and/or stem portions is/are partially located.

The switch or switches used in the control device of the invention may be any type of switches known in the art. In embodiments, the switch elements of the invention comprise miniature snap action switches, such as micro switches. In embodiments wherein the control device of the invention is intended for outdoors use, such as for example on a boat, the switch elements may be selected to be waterproof. As the skilled person would understand, the wording “switch element” is not necessarily used to refer to a device that opens or closes a circuit, but broadly encompasses any device that may send a signal upon actuation, wherein actuation is obtained by the movement of the actuation arm.

Figures 5a and 5b show examples of coupling connections 30 according to embodiments of the invention. Figure 5a shows an embodiment in which a coupling connection is provided on a spoke 8a’. In such embodiments, the coupling connection 30 movably connects the steering wheel (via the steering wheel spoke 8a’) to the stem portion 22a of the actuator. Figure 5b shows an embodiment in which a coupling connection is provided on the hub 6’. In such embodiments, the coupling connection 30 movably connects the steering wheel (via the hub 6’) to the hub portion 28 of the actuator. In some embodiments, the coupling connection may be a pivot connection, as can be seen on Figures 5a and 5b. In such embodiments, a pivot connection may comprise a pivot joint comprising a ball 52 and socket 54 joint. However, a condyloid (elliptic joint), a saddle joint, hinge joint, or any other type of pivot joint known in the art may be used. In other embodiments, the coupling connection 30 may comprise a hinge mechanism. In embodiments comprising multiple coupling connections, the coupling connections may be of an identical, similar or different type.

The skilled person will appreciate that, in embodiments, the stem portions 22a, 22b the actuator arm 24 and the hub segment (where present) may be formed as a single structure; e.g. a moulded or three-dimensional printed component. Alternatively, however, the stem portions and actuator arm may instead be formed separately and assembled. In embodiments, the stem portions, actuator arm and hub segment (where present) may comprise polymers, metals, carbon fibre, carbon fibre composites (e.g. carbon fibre reinforced polymers) or any other materials or combinations of materials known in the art for similar applications. In embodiments, the stem portions, actuator arm and hub segment (where present) may comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or carbon fibre. The coupling connection may comprise polymers, metals or any other materials or combinations of materials known in the art for similar applications.

Figures 6a and 6b show examples of vehicles 60, 62 on which the devices of the invention may be used. In some embodiments, the control device or actuator is used on a road vehicle 60, such as a car, lorry, etc. In some embodiments, the control device or actuator is used on a watercraft 62, such as a boat, and the steering wheel may be a helm.

In some embodiments of the steering wheel of the invention, as shown in Figures 2b 5 and 2c, a double spoke 8b’, 8c’ may be provided instead of a single spoke 8b’ as shown on Figure 2a. This double spoke may provide additional structural integrity to the steering wheel. This may be particularly relevant in cases where the stem portions

22a, 22b are partially located in a recess of the spokes 8a, 8b.

Many modifications may be made to the above examples without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A control device for a vehicle, the control device comprising a steering wheel and an actuator mounted on the steering wheel for controlling at least one function of the vehicle;

the steering wheel comprising a rim, at least two spokes connecting the rim to a hub, and at least one switch element actuatable by the actuator to control the at least one function of the vehicle;

the actuator comprising first and second stem portions arranged respectively alongside first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel, and an actuation arm connecting the first and second stem portions and extending substantially between the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel and adjacent to the rim of the steering wheel; and wherein the actuator is coupled to the steering wheel via at least one coupling connection provided on the hub and/or spokes of the steering wheel so as to allow the actuation arm to move between a first position in which the switch element is in a first operational state and a second position in which the switch element is in a second operational state.

2. The control device of claim 1, wherein the coupling connection is a pivot connection to allow the actuator to be pivoted between the first and second positions.

3. The control device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the at least one switch element comprises at least one micro-switch.

4. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the at least one switch element comprises a pair of switch elements, and the actuator is movable from the first position in a first direction to the second position and is further movable in a second direction to a third position, the second direction opposite the first direction, and wherein the second and the third positions activate different ones of the pair of switch elements.

5. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the actuation arm of the actuator is arranged adjacent to a hub-facing side of the rim of the steering wheel.

6. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second stem portions of the actuator are arranged generally parallel to opposing faces of the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel.

7. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the actuation arm of the actuator is at least partially located within a recess in the rim and/or in the spokes of the steering wheel.

8. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the actuation arm of the actuator is located at least partially within a recess in a hub-facing side of the rim, and the at least one switch element is located within the recess.

9. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second stem portions extend alongside the first and second adjacent spokes substantially between the rim and the hub of the steering wheel.

10. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the actuator further comprises a hub segment connecting the first and second stem portions and extending substantially between the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel adjacent to the hub of the steering wheel.

11. The control device of any preceding claim, comprising a first coupling connection arranged between the first stem and the first spoke of the steering wheel, and a second coupling connection arranged between the second stem and the second spoke of the steering wheel.

12. The control device of claim 10, comprising a coupling connection between the hub and the hub segment of the actuator.

13. The control device of claim 10, comprising a first and a second coupling connection between the hub and the hub segment of the actuator.

14. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein at least one switch element is mounted on the rim of the steering wheel at a position substantially equidistant between the first and second adjacent spokes.

15. The control device of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein at least one switch element is mounted on the rim of the steering wheel in proximity to at least one of the first and second adjacent spokes.

16. The control device of claim 15, wherein the rim has an enlarged portion adjoining at least one of the first and second adjacent spokes and the at least one switch element is mounted on the enlarged portion.

17. The control device of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein at least two switch elements are provided, a first switch element mounted in proximity to the first one of the two adjacent spokes and a second switch element mounted in proximity to the second one of the two adjacent spokes.

18. The control device of any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of switch elements, wherein two or more switch elements are actuatable simultaneously by movement of the actuator.

19. The control device of claim 17, wherein each switch element of the plurality of switch elements comprises a pair of switches, and the actuator is movable from the first position to second and third positions, the second position to activate a first one of the pair of switches, and the third position to activate a second one of the pair of switches.

20. The control device of any preceding claim, comprising one or more guide elements mounted on the rim and/or spokes of the steering wheel, the guide elements being arranged to restrict the movement of the actuator.

21. The control device of any preceding claim, comprising one or more guide elements mounted on the rim and/or spokes of the steering wheel, the guide elements being arranged to allow movement of the actuator only between the first position, the second position and optional third position.

22. The control device of any preceding claim, comprising two actuators, a first actuator coupled to the steering wheel between adjacent spokes defining a first segment of the steering wheel, and a second actuator coupled to the steering wheel between adjacent spokes defining a second, different, segment of the steering wheel.

23. The control device of any preceding claim, wherein the steering wheel comprises at least three spokes.

24. An actuator for a control device of a vehicle, the control device comprising a steering wheel comprising a rim, at least two spokes connecting the rim to a hub, and at least one switch element actuatable by the actuator to control at least one function of the vehicle;

the actuator comprising first and second stem portions configured to be arranged respectively alongside first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel, and an actuation arm connecting the first and second stem portions and extending substantially between the first and second adjacent spokes of the steering wheel and adjacent to the rim of the steering wheel, in use; and wherein the actuator is adapted to be coupled to the steering wheel via at least one coupling connection provided on the hub and/or spokes of the steering wheel, the coupling connection, in use, to allow the actuation arm to move between a first position in which the switch element is in a first operational state and a second position in which the switch element is in a second operational state.

25. The actuator of claim 24, wherein the actuator and/or steering wheel is defined according to any of claims 1 to 23.

26. The control device of any of claims 1 to 23 or the actuator of claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the vehicle is a road vehicle or a watercraft.

27. The control device or actuator of claim 26, wherein the vehicle is a boat or a ship and the steering wheel is a helm.

28. A vehicle comprising the control device of any of claims 1 to 23 or the actuator of claim 24 or claim 25.

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29. The vehicle of claim 28, wherein the vehicle is a boat or a ship and the steering wheel is a helm.

30. The vehicle of claim 29 comprising one or more hydrofoils and wherein the switch element outputs an electric signal to, in use control the angle of hydrofoils.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB1703880.3 Examiner: Mr Tom Wilson