JP2006315454A - Steering gear for vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a steering gear for a vehicle capable of simplifying constitution without impairing a burglary preventing property. <P>SOLUTION: It is possible to separate a portable machine 3 to carry out the operation of a steering angle of a wheel from a key slot 6 provided on a console box 5. A means to operate the steering angle of the wheel is eliminated from the vehicle as the driver gets out of the vehicle having with the portable machine 3. That is, it is impossible to change the steering angle of the wheel in a state where the portable machine 3 is separated from the key slot 6. Consequently, it is possible to have the burglary preventing function without adding a burglary preventive device to mechanically regulate a steering wheel. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a by-wire steering apparatus for a vehicle.

A by-wire type steering device (steer-by-wire system) detects a rotation angle (steering angle) of a steering shaft that rotates integrally with a steering wheel operated by a driver by a sensor, and a control device of the steering device controls the sensor. The wheel angle is electrically controlled based on the detection result. In such a by-wire type steering device, it is necessary to equip an antitheft device such as a steering lock device from the viewpoint of theft prevention. As such a steering lock device, for example, a configuration as shown in Patent Document 1 is known. This steering lock device mechanically restricts the rotation of the steering shaft, thereby disabling operation of the steering wheel. Theft prevention is ensured by restricting (locking) the steering shaft by the steering lock device when the vehicle is parked.
JP 2000-344053 A

  However, in the anti-theft device (steering lock device) as described above, since an independent anti-theft device is provided in the steering device (to be precise, the steering shaft), the number of parts in the steering column tends to increase.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a vehicle steering apparatus that can simplify the configuration without impairing theft prevention.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention according to claim 1 is directed to a steering means in which mechanical power transmission is impossible to be separated from a wheel, and detection of detecting an operation of the steering means and outputting a detection signal. Vehicle steering apparatus comprising: means; a steering actuator that changes an angle of the wheel; and a control means that controls the operation of the steering actuator based on a detection signal input from the detection means. The means includes a locking / unlocking means for electronically locking and unlocking the door lock of the vehicle through a predetermined wireless communication, and a movement in a predetermined operation direction relative to the vehicle around the driver's seat, and the relative locking / unlocking means is detachably attached. And the detecting means is configured to determine an operation amount of the supporting part based on a steering operation of the locking / unlocking means in a state where the locking / unlocking means is mounted on the supporting part. It is out of the gist.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle steering apparatus according to the first aspect, the locking / unlocking means can be tilted together with the support portion in a state of being mounted on the support portion, and the detection means The gist is to detect an inclination angle based on an inclination operation of the support portion.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle steering apparatus according to the first aspect, the locking / unlocking means is capable of rotating together with the support portion when mounted on the support portion. The gist of the detection means is to detect the amount of rotation based on the rotation operation of the support portion.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the vehicle steering apparatus according to the first or second aspect, wherein the locking / unlocking means is configured to start an engine when mounted on the support portion; An engine stop position for stopping the engine is set so as to be rotatable together with the support portion, and an ignition on position for maintaining the driving state of the engine is provided between the engine start position and the engine stop position. When the locking / unlocking means is in the non-operating state at the ignition-on position, the wheels are set so as to face in the direction in which the vehicle goes straight, and the center line of the locking / unlocking means in plan view is parallel to the traveling direction of the vehicle. The gist.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the vehicle steering apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the support portion is disposed on an armrest that supports at least a part of the driver's arm. The gist is that it is provided.

(Function)
According to invention of Claim 1, a locking / unlocking means can be isolate | separated from the support part provided in the vehicle. When the vehicle is parked, the owner (driver) carries the locking / unlocking means and goes out of the vehicle, so that part of the steering means does not exist in the vehicle. In short, in a state where the locking / unlocking means is separated from the support portion, the steering operation of the vehicle cannot be performed. For this reason, for example, an antitheft function can be provided without providing an antitheft device that mechanically regulates the steering wheel. Therefore, the configuration can be simplified without impairing theft prevention.

  According to the invention described in claim 2, in addition to the operation of the invention described in claim 1, the support portion can be tilted by tilting the locking / unlocking means, and the operation of the steering actuator can be controlled. For this reason, operation becomes easy and it is convenient.

  According to the invention described in claim 3, in addition to the operation of the invention described in claim 1, the operation of the steering actuator can be controlled by rotating the support unit by rotating the steering means.

  According to the invention described in claim 4, in addition to the action of the invention described in claim 1 or 2, the support portion can start and stop the engine based on the turning operation of the locking / unlocking means. it can. For this reason, it is not necessary to provide an ignition switch for starting and stopping the engine, for example, and the instrument panel can be simplified. When the locking / unlocking means is in the ignition-on position, the wheels are set so as to face in the direction in which the vehicle goes straight, and the center line in plan view is parallel to the traveling direction of the vehicle. For this reason, the position where the turning angle of the wheel is “zero” can be easily recognized, and the operation is easy to understand.

  According to invention of Claim 5, in addition to the effect | action of the invention of any one of Claims 1-4, the support part is formed in the armrest. For this reason, when operating a locking / unlocking means, it can operate in the state which supported a part of arm on the armrest. For this reason, the operability is further improved.

  According to the present invention, the configuration can be simplified without impairing the antitheft property.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is embodied in a by-wire steering apparatus for a vehicle in which wheels and steering are separated so that mechanical power transmission is impossible will be described with reference to FIGS.
<Outline of vehicle system 1>
As shown in FIG. 1, the vehicle system 1 includes a vehicle 2 and a portable device 3 as a locking / unlocking means possessed by the owner (driver) of the vehicle 2. The portable device 3 can communicate with the vehicle 2 in the vehicle exterior area A1 around the vehicle and the vehicle interior area A2. When the owner who has the portable device 3 enters the vehicle outside area A1, the portable device 3 receives the vehicle outside request signal output from the vehicle 2, and automatically transmits an ID code signal including a predetermined ID code. When the vehicle 2 receives the ID code signal, the vehicle 2 compares the ID code set in the vehicle 2 with the ID code signal included in the ID code signal (ID code verification). The vehicle 2 unlocks the door lock when the ID code collation with the portable device 3 in the vehicle outside area A1 is established. Further, the vehicle 2 locks the door lock when the driver carrying the portable device 3 moves out of the vehicle outside area A1 and the portable device 3 does not respond to the vehicle outside request signal.

  On the other hand, when the owner who has the portable device 3 enters the indoor area A2, the portable device 3 receives the indoor request signal output from the vehicle 2 and automatically transmits a transmission signal including a predetermined ID code. . When the vehicle 2 receives the transmission signal, the vehicle 2 compares the ID code set in the vehicle 2 with the ID code signal included in the transmission signal (ID code verification). The vehicle 2 is allowed to start the engine when the ID code collation with the portable device 3 in the indoor area A2 is established.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the vehicle 2 includes wheels 4, a vehicle steering device 10, a door lock drive motor 11, and an engine control unit 12. The vehicle steering device 10 includes the portable device 3, a control device 21 as control means, a detection unit 31 as detection means, and a steering actuator 41.

  The portable device 3 includes a case 61, a microcomputer 62, a transmission / reception unit 63, a transponder 64, a locking switch knob 65 and an unlocking switch knob 66 as locking / unlocking means. As shown in FIG. 3A, the case 61 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and is attachable to and detachable from the console box 5 as an armrest between the driver seat and the passenger seat. More specifically, a key slot 6 as a support portion is provided on the upper surface of the console box 5 (more precisely, the upper surface of the console box door), and the portable device 3 is inserted into the upper surface of the key slot 6. An insertion port 5a is formed. The key slot 6 is provided with an insertion port 5a at a position where the driver can reach his / her hand with the elbow on the console box 5, for example. A metal piece 61a is provided on the outer bottom surface of the case 61. The metal piece 61a can be connected to a connection piece 6a provided on the inner surface of the key slot 6 by inserting the portable device 3 into the insertion port 5a. It has become. In addition, the metal piece 61a and the connection piece 6a are comprised by the conductor which lets an electrical and a communication signal pass, respectively. When the metal piece 61a is connected to the connection piece 6a, the portable device 3 outputs a connection signal indicating the connection to the control device 21.

  The transmission / reception part 63 receives the request signal outside a vehicle output from the control apparatus 21, and transmits an ID code signal automatically. The transponder 64 generates an electromotive force when receiving the transponder driving radio wave from the control device 21 in a state where the portable device 3 is mounted in the key slot 6, and the transponder 64 is preset in the portable device 3 using the electromotive force. A response signal including a transponder code is output.

  A locking switch knob 65 and an unlocking switch knob 66 are provided on the surface of the case 61. The locking switch knob 65 and the unlocking switch knob 66 are constituted by momentary push buttons, and are electrically connected to the microcomputer 62, respectively. The microcomputer 62 is a CPU unit including a CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like (not shown). When the lock switch knob 65 is operated, the microcomputer 62 transmits a door lock signal via the transmission / reception unit 63. When the unlocking switch knob 66 is operated, the microcomputer 62 transmits a door unlocking signal via the transmission / reception unit 63. The locking switch knob 65 and the unlocking switch knob 66 are set so that the door locking / unlocking signal and the door locking / unlocking signal are invalid when mounted in the key slot 6. Further, a concave fitting portion 61b to be fitted by a solenoid 9 described later is formed on the surface of the case 61.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the key slot 6 is formed in a substantially spherical shape and is rotatably supported in the console box 5. That is, the key slot 6 and the console box 5 are configured to have a ball joint relationship. The key slot 6 is arranged so that the insertion slot 5a is exposed from the console box 5.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, the key slot 6 is moved from the ignition-off position (position indicated by “OFF” in FIG. 3A) by operating the portable device 3 inserted into the insertion slot 5a. It is set so as to be rotatable between the engine start position (the position indicated by “ST” in FIG. 3A). Specifically, the key slot 6 includes an ignition-off position, an accessory-on position (a position indicated by “ACC” in FIG. 3A), an ignition-on position (a position indicated by “ON” in FIG. 3A), and the engine. It can be rotated in the order of the start position. In this embodiment, the direction of the ignition off position is a direction parallel to the left-right direction of the vehicle 2. The accessory-on position is a position rotated 45 degrees to the right from the ignition-off position, and the ignition-on position is a position further rotated 45 degrees to the right from the accessory-on position. At the ignition-on position, the surface of the portable device 3 faces the left direction in the vehicle 2, and the short side direction of the portable device 3 is parallel to the front-rear direction of the vehicle 2. The engine start position is a position rotated 90 degrees further to the right from the ignition on position, and the rotation angle from the ignition off position to the engine start position is set to 180 degrees. Note that the portable device 3 is automatically moved by an elastic member (not shown) to the ignition-on position in a non-operating state. That is, the portable device 3 returns to the ignition-on position by the elastic force of the elastic member when the hand is released in a state where it is rotated to the engine start position. Further, at the ignition on position, the turning angle of the wheel 4 is set to “zero” (straight forward position).

  As shown in FIG. 4, the key slot 6 is provided with a solenoid 9 as a lock means for restricting the portable device 3 from being removed from the insertion slot 5 a of the key slot 6. The key slot 6 can be tilted in the left-right direction indicated by arrows X and Y in FIG. 4 by operating the portable device 3 inserted into the insertion slot 5a. The portable device 3 can move within the range of the portable device 3 indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. The console box 5 is provided with an elastic member (not shown), and the key slot 6 is urged by the elastic force of the elastic member so that the insertion slot 5a is always perpendicular to the console box 5. For this reason, when the key slot 6 is tilted in the left-right direction indicated by the arrows X and Y in FIG. 4 based on the tilting operation by the portable device 3, the portable device 3 is in the ignition-on position when the engine is started and in the non-operating state. Is held perpendicular to the console box 5. The portable device 3 and the key slot 6 constitute steering means.

  2 and 3A, the detection unit 31 is electrically connected to the control device 21, and the portable device 3 is mounted in the key slot 6, that is, the metal piece 61a is connected. It can be electrically connected to the microcomputer 62 of the portable device 3 while being connected to the piece 6a. The detection unit 31 can detect the tilt of the key slot 6 in a state where the portable device 3 is mounted in the key slot 6. The detection unit 31 is provided so as to cover the outer peripheral surface of the key slot 6. In the present embodiment, the detection unit 31 is configured by an inclination angle sensor. When the key slot 6 is tilted, the detection unit 31 outputs a signal indicating the tilt amount to the control device 21. When the portable device 3 is tilted in the right direction indicated by the arrow X in FIG. 4, the detection unit 31 outputs a right steering angle detection signal to the control device 21, and the portable device 3 is in the left direction indicated by the arrow Y in FIG. 4. When it is tilted, a left steering angle detection signal is output to the control device 21.

As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 21 is electrically connected to the detection unit 31, the door lock drive motor 11, and the engine control unit 12.
When the portable device 3 is rotated from the ignition off position to the accessory on position while the portable device 3 is inserted into the key slot 6, the control device 21 supplies power to the accessory. Further, when the portable device 3 is rotated from the accessory-on position to the ignition-on position, power is supplied to the ignition. By the way, the ignition off position is an engine stop position where the portable device 3 is inserted and removed, the accessory on position is a position where accessories such as a radio are used without starting the engine, and the ignition on position is a position when driving. The engine start position is the engine start position.

  The control device 21 can detect the tilting of the key slot 6 when the engine is started by the turning operation of the portable device 3. That is, the control device 21 can perform ignition control (engine start control) based on the turning operation of the portable device 3 until the engine is started. When the engine is driven, steering based on the tilting operation of the portable device 3 is possible. The actuator 41 can be controlled. Further, when the engine is in a driving state, the portable device 3 cannot be separated from the key slot 6 by the solenoid 9, and only the tilting operation and the rotation operation can be performed. The portable device 3 is restricted from moving out of the key slot 6 by fitting the iron core of the solenoid 9 into the fitting portion 61b. By stopping the engine based on the rotation operation of the portable device 3, the portable device 3 is released from the restriction by the solenoid 9 and can be separated from the key slot 6.

  When the left steering angle detection signal or the right steering angle detection signal is input, the control device 21 determines the steering angle of the wheel 4 based on these detection signals, and sends a drive signal indicating the steering angle to the steering actuator 41. Output to. The steering actuator 41 changes the turning angle of the wheel 4 based on the drive signal input from the control device 21. The turning angle of the wheel 4 is set according to the inclination angle of the portable device 3, and is set so that the turning angle of the wheel 4 increases as the portable device 3 is tilted.

  The control device 21 includes a non-volatile memory 21a, and a preset ID code and transponder code are recorded in the memory 21a. The control device 21 is electrically connected to the vehicle exterior antenna 22 and the indoor antenna 43. The vehicle exterior antenna 22 outputs a vehicle exterior request signal to the vehicle exterior area A1 (see FIG. 1) around the vehicle, and receives an ID code signal from the portable device 3 in the vehicle exterior area A1. When receiving the ID code signal, the control device 21 performs the ID code verification. The control device 21 outputs an unlocking drive signal to the door lock driving motor 11 when the ID code collation with the portable device 3 in the vehicle outside area A1 is established. Further, the control device 21 outputs a locking drive signal to the door lock driving motor 11 when the driver carrying the portable device 3 moves out of the vehicle outside area A1 and the portable device 3 does not respond to the vehicle outside request signal. Then lock the door lock.

  On the other hand, the indoor antenna 23 outputs an indoor request signal to the indoor area A2 (see FIG. 1) in the vehicle compartment, and receives a transmission signal from the portable device 3 in the indoor area A2. When the transmission signal transmitted from the portable device 3 in response to the indoor request signal is received via the indoor antenna 23, the control device 21 performs the ID code verification. When the ID code collation with the portable device 3 in the indoor area A2 (see FIG. 1) is established, the control device 21 outputs a first engine start permission signal to the engine control unit 12.

  When the portable device 3 is mounted in the key slot 6 (see FIG. 3B), the control device 21 receives a connection signal from the microcomputer 62 of the portable device 3, and based on the input of the connection signal, the control device 21 receives the connection signal. Transmit transponder drive radio wave. Then, the control device 21 receives a response signal including a transponder code from the portable device 3. The control device 21 performs a transponder verification as to whether or not the transponder code included in the response signal received from the portable device 3 matches its own transponder code. The control device 21 outputs a second engine start permission signal for permitting engine start to the engine control unit 12 on condition that the transponder verification matches. The engine control unit 12 rotates the portable device 3 to “ST” shown in FIG. 3A in a state where both the first engine start permission signal and the second engine permission signal are input (engine start permission state). By doing so, the engine is started, that is, fuel injection control, ignition control, and the like are performed.

(Operation of the embodiment)
Next, the operation of the vehicle system 1 will be described.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, when the driver carrying the portable device 3 enters the vehicle outside area A <b> 1 around the vehicle, the portable device 3 receives the vehicle outside request signal transmitted from the vehicle exterior antenna 22. Then, an ID code signal including a preset ID code is transmitted from the portable device 3 to the vehicle exterior antenna 22 of the control device 21. And the control apparatus 21 performs ID code collation with the ID code set to self, and the ID code of the ID code signal received from the portable device 3 in vehicle exterior area | region A1. As a result, when the ID code verification is established, an unlocking drive signal is output from the control device 21 to the door lock driving motor 11. Then, the door lock is unlocked.

  Next, when the driver carrying the portable device 3 gets into the vehicle 2, the portable device 3 receives an indoor request signal transmitted from the indoor antenna 23. Then, a transmission signal including a preset ID code is transmitted from the portable device 3 to the indoor antenna 23 of the control device 21. The control device 21 performs ID code collation between the ID code set in itself and the ID code of the transmission signal received from the portable device 3 in the indoor area A2. As a result, when the ID code verification is established, a first engine start permission signal is output from the control device 21 to the engine control unit 12.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 3B, the portable device 3 is attached to the key slot 6 of the console box 5. Then, the metal piece 61a of the portable device 3 and the connection piece 6a of the key slot 6 come into contact with each other. As a result, a connection signal is output from the microcomputer 62 of the portable device 3 to the control device 21, and the control device 21 outputs a transponder driving radio wave. Next, the portable device 3 outputs a response signal including a transponder code based on the transponder driving radio wave from the control device 21. Then, the response signal is received by the control device 21, and the transponder verification is performed to determine whether or not the transponder code preset in the memory 21a of the control device 21 matches the transponder code included in the response signal. When the transponder verification matches, the control device 21 outputs a second engine start permission signal for permitting engine start to the engine control unit 12.

  In this way, when the engine control unit 12 is in the engine start permission state, the driver holds the portable device 3 with, for example, the left thumb and forefinger in the state where the elbow is attached to the console box 5, and the engine start position (FIG. 3 ( When the engine is rotated to “ST” shown in a), the engine is started. When the engine is started and released, the portable device 3 automatically returns to the ignition on position. When the engine is in a driving state, the control device 21 validates the input of a detection signal based on the tilting operation of the portable device 3. Further, in the portable device 3, movement of the key slot 6 in the pulling direction is restricted by the solenoid 9, and only the rotation operation and the tilting operation are effective.

  When the wheel 4 is to be steered to the right, the driver holds the portable box 3 with the thumb and forefinger of the left hand, for example, with the elbow attached to the console box 5 and tilts to the right as indicated by the arrow X in FIG. To do. Then, the detection unit 31 detects the tilt angle and outputs a right steering angle detection signal to the control device 21. The control device 21 outputs a drive signal based on the right steering angle detection signal to the steering actuator 41. When the drive signal is input to the steering actuator 41, the steering actuator 41 changes the turning angle of the wheel 4 based on the drive signal.

  Further, when it is desired to steer the wheel 4 in the right direction, the portable device 3 is further tilted in the right direction indicated by an arrow X in FIG. Then, the detection unit 31 outputs a right steering angle detection signal based on the tilt angle to the control device 21. When this right steering angle detection signal is input to the control device 21, the steering actuator 41 further turns the wheel 4 to the right.

  Next, when the driver wants to return the turning angle of the wheel 4 to the direction in which the vehicle 2 goes straight, the driver moves the portable device 3 to the console box 5 so that the portable device 3 is perpendicular to the console box 5 in FIG. Wake up to the left as indicated by Y. At this time, since the urging force of the elastic member assists the mobile device 3 to move leftward as indicated by the arrow Y in FIG. 4, the mobile device 3 returns to the vertical state only by releasing the hand. To do. As a result, the turning angle of the wheel 4 returns to the “zero” state. At this time, the direction of the center line of the portable device 3 in plan view is parallel to the direction in which the vehicle 2 goes straight with respect to the front-rear direction of the vehicle 2.

  When the driver wants to stop the engine, the driver rotates the portable device 3 in the direction of the ignition-off position (“OFF” position shown in FIG. 3A). When the portable device 3 reaches the ignition off position, the engine control unit 12 stops the engine. When the engine stops, the restriction of the case 61 by the solenoid 9 is released, and the portable device 3 can be extracted from the key slot 6.

(Effect of embodiment)
Therefore, according to the vehicle steering apparatus 10 in the vehicle system 1 of the above embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

  (1) The portable device 3 that operates the steering angle of the wheel 4 can be separated from the key slot 6 provided in the console box 5. For this reason, when the vehicle 2 is parked, the driver carries the portable device 3 and goes out of the vehicle, so that the means for operating the turning angle of the wheel 4 disappears from the vehicle 2. That is, in a state where the portable device 3 is separated from the key slot 6, the turning angle of the wheel 4 cannot be changed. For this reason, it is possible to have an anti-theft function without providing an anti-theft device that mechanically restricts the steering wheel (for example, a steering lock device that mechanically restricts rotation of the steering shaft). Therefore, the configuration can be simplified without impairing theft prevention.

  (2) The operation of the steering actuator 41 can be controlled by gripping and tilting the case 61 of the portable device 3 with the thumb and index finger of the left hand, for example. For this reason, the turning angle of the wheel 4 can be changed with a small number of fingers, which is convenient.

  (3) The transponder is verified by attaching the portable device 3 to the key slot 6. When the transponder code stored in the portable device 3 matches the transponder code stored in the memory 21a of the control device 21, the engine can be started. Accordingly, since the engine cannot be driven unless the matching of the transponder codes matches, the security level can be further improved.

  (4) The key slot 6 is rotated by the portable device 3 to start and stop the engine. For this reason, for example, an ignition switch for starting and stopping the engine provided on the instrument panel, a key cylinder, and the like can be omitted. Further, in the ignition-on position, the portable device 3 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle 2 with respect to the front-rear direction of the vehicle 2 in the plan view. Therefore, the position where the turning angle of the wheel 4 is “zero” can be easily recognized, and the operation is easy to understand.

  (5) A key slot 6 is formed in the console box 5. For this reason, when the portable device 3 is inserted into the key slot 6 and operated, the portable device 3 can be operated with the elbow attached to the upper surface of the console box 5. Accordingly, the posture is less fatigued for the driver, and shake during operation can be reduced. Therefore, the operability is further improved.

  (6) When the engine is driven, the iron core of the solenoid 9 is fitted into the fitting portion 61b of the case 61, so that the key slot 6 cannot be removed. For this reason, the portable device 3 is not accidentally pulled out while the vehicle 2 is traveling, and the safety is further improved.

(Another embodiment)
In addition, you may change the said embodiment as follows.
In the above embodiment, the portable device 3 is inserted into the insertion port 5a provided on the upper surface of the console box 5, but the following may be employed. As shown in FIG. 5, a cylindrical protrusion 55 is provided on the upper surface of the key slot 6, and a recess 103 a that fits the protrusion 55 is formed on the outer surface of the portable device 103. Then, the protrusion 55 is tilted together with the portable device 103 in the directions indicated by the arrows X and Y in FIG. 5 with the recess 103 a of the portable device 3 being inserted into the protrusion 55. In this way, the steering actuator 41 is controlled. Further, only when the portable device 103 is inserted into the protrusion 55, the detection unit 31 detects the tilt angle of the key slot 6 and outputs a detection signal based on the tilt angle to the control device 21. Thus, since the protrusion 55 and the recessed part 103a are mutually cylindrical, the direction of the portable device 103 can be freely set to an angle that is easy for the driver to operate, and the operability is further improved.

  In the above embodiment, the key slot 6 is recessed with respect to the upper surface of the console box 5, but may be formed so as to protrude from the upper surface of the key slot 6. As shown in FIG. 6, a rectangular frame-like protruding frame portion 56 is formed on the upper surface of the key slot 6. An insertion port 56a is formed in the protruding frame portion 56, and the portable device 3 is inserted into the insertion port 56a. In this state, the steering actuator 41 can be controlled by tilting the protruding frame portion 56 and the portable device 3.

  In the above embodiment, the portable actuator 3 is tilted to control the steering actuator 41 based on the tilt angle. However, the following may be performed. That is, as shown in FIG. 7A, a rotatable part 91 is provided on the instrument panel P. The rotating part 91 is rotatable in the direction indicated by the arrow α in FIG. The instrument panel P is provided with a solenoid 92 as a locking means so as to restrict and allow the rotation of the rotating portion 91. The solenoid 92 restricts the rotation of the rotating unit 91 when the engine is stopped, and allows the rotating unit 91 to rotate when the engine is driven. A detection unit 31 (not shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B) that detects the amount of rotation of the rotation unit 91 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotation unit 91. In addition, the detection part 31 in this embodiment is comprised by the rotation angle sensor. An insertion port 91a is formed in the rotation unit 91, and the portable device 203 is inserted into the insertion port 91a. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7C, the portable device 203 includes an insertion unit 204 and a main body unit 205. The insertion portion 204 has a cubic shape or a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and is fitted to the insertion port 91a. Further, the main body 205 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and as shown in FIG. 7 (d), gripping portions 206 are provided on both side surfaces so as to protrude. Each of the gripping portions 206 spreads in a C shape with the insertion portion 204 side as a base end. Further, as shown in FIG. 7 (e), an operation unit 207 is accommodated in the grip unit 206, and the grip unit 206 is pulled out in the extending direction of the grip unit 206 by being pulled by hand. It is connected. In the present embodiment, each of the gripping portions 206 is opened outward by 45 degrees, and the rotating portion 91 can be easily rotated by rotating the portable device 203 in this state. In the usage mode of the portable device 203, when the rotation unit 91 is rotated leftward (counterclockwise) by the portable device 203 while the engine is in a driving state, the detection unit 31 outputs a left steering angle detection signal to the control device 21. To do. As a result, the wheel 4 is steered leftward. Further, when the rotating unit 91 is rotated rightward (clockwise) by the portable device 203, the detecting unit 31 outputs a right steering angle detection signal to the control device 21. As a result, the wheel 4 is steered rightward.

  In the above embodiment, the ignition-on position is set as a position where the angle of the wheel 4 is “zero” (straight-ahead position), but the straight-ahead position is not limited to the ignition-on position. For example, the accessory on position may be set to a straight traveling position.

  An insertion detection switch that detects the mounting state of the portable device 3 may be provided in the key slot 6. By doing so, the metal piece 61a and the connection piece 6a can be omitted. Therefore, the configuration of the portable device 3 can be simplified.

  In the above embodiment, the steering actuator 41 is controlled by tilting the portable device 3, but the steering actuator 41 may be controlled by rotating the portable device 3. In such a configuration, the detection unit 31 uses a rotation angle sensor that detects the rotation amount of the key slot 6 based on the rotation operation of the portable device 3.

  In the above embodiment, the console box 5 is used as the armrest, but the position of the armrest is not limited to the console box 5. That is, as shown in FIG. 1, the key slot 6 may be formed side by side with the power window switch in the power window control section 7 as an armrest supporting the power window switch provided on the door side. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 1, you may form the key slot 6 in the armrest part 8 provided in the sheet | seat.

  In the above embodiment, the portable device 3 is inserted into the key slot 6 and the key slot 6 is rotated to start and stop the engine (ignition is turned on / off). The engine starting and stopping means may be omitted. In such a configuration, as a means for starting and stopping the engine, the engine may be started or stopped by rotating a knob, or by pressing a button type switch to start or stop the engine. You may make it stop.

  In the above embodiment, the ID verification between the portable device 3 and the control device 21 in the indoor area A2 and the matching of the transponder verification between the portable device 3 and the control device 21 with the portable device 3 inserted in the key slot 6 However, the engine may be changed as follows. That is, only one of the ID verification and the transponder verification may be performed.

(Appendix)
Next, a technical idea that can be grasped from the above embodiment and another example will be additionally described.
(A) In the vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 4, in the driving state of the engine, the support portion is provided with a lock means for restricting the locking / unlocking means so as not to come out of the support portion. A vehicle steering system. In such a configuration, in addition to the operation of the invention according to the fourth aspect, in the driving state of the engine, the locking / unlocking means does not come off from the support portion. For this reason, the locking / unlocking means is not accidentally pulled out during the steering operation, and the safety is further improved.

  (B) In the vehicle steering apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and technical idea (a), the control means uses a transponder cord identical to the transponder cord of the locking / unlocking means. And storing a response signal including a transponder code based on the transponder driving radio wave to transmit the response signal including a transponder code to the steering means, and transmitting the response signal including a transponder code based on the transponder driving radio wave, The means receives the response signal transmitted from the steering means, and permits the start of the engine on the condition that the transponder codes match each other. In such a configuration, in addition to the operation of the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 5 and technical idea (a), the transponder code stored in the locking / unlocking means and the control means When both transponder codes coincide with the transponder codes stored in, the engine can be started. Therefore, since the detection means cannot function unless the matching of the transponder codes matches, the security level can be further improved.

The top view which shows the vehicle in the vehicle system of this embodiment schematically. The block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the vehicle system in this embodiment. (A) is a perspective view which shows the portable device and key slot in this embodiment, (b) is a perspective view which shows the state with which the portable device was mounted | worn in the key slot. AA sectional drawing in FIG.3 (b). The perspective view which shows another example. The perspective view which shows another example. (A) is a perspective view showing another example portable device and rotating part, (b) is a BB cross-sectional view in (a), (c) is a plan view showing another example portable device, (d) is the same. The top view which shows the state which the holding part of the portable device protruded, (e) is a top view which shows the state which the operation part of the portable device protruded.

Explanation of symbols

  2 ... Vehicle, 3, 103, 203 ... Portable machine (locking / unlocking means and steering means), 4 ... Wheel, 5 ... Console box (armrest), 6 ... Key slot (supporting part and steering means), 7 ... Power window control (Armrest), 8 ... armrest (armrest), 10 ... steering device for vehicle, 21 ... control device (control means), 31 ... detection portion (detection means), 41 ... steering actuator.

Claims (5)

Steering means in which mechanical power transmission from a wheel is impossible to be separated, detection means for detecting an operation of the steering means and outputting a detection signal, a steering actuator for changing the angle of the wheel, and the detection means A vehicle steering apparatus comprising a control means for controlling the operation of the steering actuator based on an input detection signal,
The steering means includes a locking / unlocking means for electronically locking / unlocking the door lock of the vehicle through predetermined wireless communication,
A support portion capable of operating in a predetermined operation direction with respect to the vehicle around the driver's seat and having the locking and unlocking means relatively removable;
The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detecting means detects an operation amount of the support portion based on a steering operation of the locking / unlocking means in a state where the locking / unlocking means is mounted on the support portion. The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1,
The locking / unlocking means can be tilted together with the support portion in a state of being mounted on the support portion,
The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection means detects an inclination angle based on an inclination operation of the support portion. The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1,
The locking / unlocking means can be rotated together with the support portion in a state of being mounted on the support portion,
The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection means detects a rotation amount based on a rotation operation of the support portion. In the vehicle steering device according to claim 1 or 2,
The locking / unlocking means is set so as to be rotatable together with the support portion between an engine start position for starting the engine and an engine stop position for stopping the engine in a state of being mounted on the support portion.
Between the engine start position and the engine stop position, an ignition on position for maintaining the engine drive state is provided,
When the locking / unlocking means is in the non-operating state at the ignition-on position, the wheels are set so as to face in the direction in which the vehicle goes straight, and the center line of the locking / unlocking means in plan view is parallel to the traveling direction of the vehicle A vehicle steering system. In the vehicle steering device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The vehicle steering apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the support portion is disposed on an armrest that supports at least a part of a driver's arm.

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