Automatic steering apparatus

摘要

For automatic steering control by simultaneously turning a steering shaft and a steering wheel, an apparatus prevents automatic turning torque from being transmitted to the steering wheel when a driver operates the steering wheel and allows the steering wheel to turn freely. A V-shaped recess is formed on the side of the steering wheel, and a ball is provided on the side of the steering shaft. The ball is pushed by a spring toward the steering wheel and positioned within the V-shaped recess during automatic steering to connect the steering wheel with the steering shaft, thereby transmitting the turning torque. When torque which is equal to or exceeding a prescribed value is applied to the steering wheel, the ball is separated from the V-shaped recess to interrupt the transmission of the turning torque, and the steering wheel can be turned freely.