Patent Description:
In general, an electric vehicle refers to a vehicle that may use electrical energy, which is stored in a battery, as a power source. The advantage of the electric vehicle is that neither soot nor smoke is produced, little noise is generated, and a vehicle body is lightweight.

Furthermore, new mobility visions with new concepts for implementing human-oriented dynamic future cities have been introduced to vehicle industries. One of the future mobility solutions is a purpose-built vehicle (PBV) as a purpose-based mobility vehicle.

However, in the case of a vehicle in the related art, a drive device, a lighting device, a sensing device, and the like are separated as separate structures and systems, which makes it difficult to apply the drive device, the lighting device, the sensing device, and the like to the PBV used for various purposes.

The background technology of the present disclosure is disclosed in <CIT>, and entitled 'Prefabricated vehicle'). <CIT> relates to a vehicle with interchangeable drive modules. <CIT> relates to vehicle corner modules.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a pillar module in which a power device, a lighting device, and a sensing device of a vehicle are integrated into a single device.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a pillar module capable of being applied to various mobility vehicles on the basis of a high degree of design freedom.

In an embodiment, a pillar module includes: a pillar body; a drive unit connected to the pillar body and configured to support the pillar body so that the pillar body is movable; a first lighting unit installed on the pillar body and configured to create a first lighting pattern; a second lighting unit disposed to be spaced apart from the first lighting unit and configured to create a second lighting pattern; and a switching unit connected to the first lighting unit and the second lighting unit and configured to selectively expose the first lighting unit and the second lighting unit to the outside of the pillar body.

An accommodation portion having an opening side formed at one side thereof may be formed in the pillar body, and the first lighting unit and the second lighting unit may be disposed in the accommodation portion and selectively face the opening side while operating in conjunction with an operation of the switching unit.

The switching unit may include: a switching case rotatably installed in the accommodation portion and configured to support the first lighting unit and the second lighting unit; and a switching actuator connected to the switching case and configured to generate a rotational force to rotate the switching case.

A central axis of the switching case may be disposed in parallel with the opening side.

The first lighting unit and the second lighting unit may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other along a peripheral surface of the switching case.

The first lighting unit may include a road surface illumination lamp configured to rotate together with the switching case and configured to emit an optical image toward a road surface as the road surface illumination lamp is disposed to face the opening side.

The second lighting unit may include a plurality of pixel lamps configured to rotate together with the switching case and be independently turned on or off.

The plurality of pixel lamps may be arranged in the form of a lattice on a peripheral surface of the switching case.

The pillar module may further include: a kinetic lighting unit movably installed on the pillar body and configured to create a kinetic lighting pattern.

The kinetic lighting unit may include a plurality of kinetic lighting members independently movably installed on the pillar body and disposed to be spaced apart from one another.

The kinetic lighting member may include: a kinetic panel including an one side rotatably connected to the pillar body, and an other side protruding outward from the pillar body or inserted into the pillar body depending on a rotation direction; a kinetic actuator connected to the one side of the kinetic panel and configured to generate a rotational force to rotate the kinetic panel; and a kinetic lamp configured to be exposed to outside of the pillar body as the other side of the kinetic panel protrudes outward from the pillar body.

The pillar module may further include: a line lighting unit extending in an upward/downward direction along an outer surface of the pillar module.

The line lighting unit may include a plurality of line lamps disposed to be spaced apart from one another in an extension direction of the line lighting unit and configured to be independently turned on or off.

The pillar module may further include: a detection unit installed on the pillar body and configured to detect an object positioned at a periphery of the pillar body; and a control unit configured to control operations of the first lighting unit, the second lighting unit, and the switching unit.

The detection unit may include a first detection member rotatably installed on the pillar body and configured to rotate in conjunction with a change in relative position between the pillar body and the object.

According to the pillar module according to the present disclosure, the power device configured to move the vehicle, the lighting device configured to transmit an optical signal, and the sensing device configured to perform an interaction with a pedestrian at the periphery of the vehicle may be integrated into a single unit module, which makes it possible to fluidly apply the pillar module to mobility vehicles having various specifications and purposes.

In addition, according to the pillar module according to the present disclosure, the first lighting unit and the second lighting unit may be configured to selectively face the opening side in the accommodation portion by the switching unit, which makes it possible to improve spatial utilization and an overall aesthetic appearance of the vehicle in comparison with the case in which the first lighting unit and the second lighting unit are installed at different positions on the pillar body.

In addition, according to the pillar module according to the present disclosure, various types of lighting patterns may be created by the first lighting unit, the second lighting unit, the kinetic lighting unit, and the line lighting unit, which makes it possible to ensure safety for an object positioned outside the vehicle and more effectively transfer various types of information on the states of the vehicle.

Advantages and features of the present disclosure and methods of achieving the advantages and features will be clear with reference to embodiments described in detail below together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein but will be implemented in various forms. The embodiments of the present disclosure are provided so that the present disclosure is completely disclosed, and a person with ordinary skill in the art can fully understand the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure will be defined only by the scope of the appended claims. Meanwhile, the terms used in the present specification are for explaining the embodiments, not for limiting the present disclosure.

Hereinafter, a vehicle having a pillar module will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings through various exemplary embodiments.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of a vehicle having a pillar module according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> is an exploded perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of the vehicle having the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, a vehicle according to the present embodiment may include a platform <NUM>, a pillar module <NUM>, a main cabin <NUM>, a docking unit <NUM>, a stopper <NUM>, and a door unit <NUM>.

The platform <NUM> defines a lower external appearance of the vehicle according to the present embodiment and entirely supports the pillar module <NUM> and the main cabin <NUM> which will be described below. The platform <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be formed to have a flat plate shape. The platform <NUM> may be disposed to be parallel to the ground surface. The platform <NUM> may be supported to be spaced apart from the ground surface by means of the pillar module <NUM> to be described below. A battery (not illustrated) may be installed on the platform <NUM> and supply power to the pillar module <NUM>, the door unit <NUM>, and various types of electronic devices installed in the vehicle. The battery may be seated on an upper surface of the platform <NUM>. Alternatively, the battery may be coupled to a lower surface of the platform <NUM>. A cross-sectional shape of the platform <NUM> is not limited to a quadrangular shape illustrated in <FIG>, but may be changed in design to various shapes such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a polygonal shape.

The pillar module <NUM> is connected to the platform <NUM> and supports the platform <NUM>. The pillar module <NUM> is configured such that a power device configured to move the vehicle, a lighting device configured to transmit an optical signal, and a sensing device configured to perform an interaction with a pedestrian at the periphery of the vehicle are integrated into a single unit module and simultaneously or independently perform these functions. Therefore, the pillar module <NUM> may be fluidly applied to the platform <NUM> and the main cabin <NUM> that have various specifications and purposes. The pillar module <NUM> may be provided as a plurality of pillar modules <NUM>. The plurality of pillar modules <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from one another along a periphery of the platform <NUM>. For example, the plurality of pillar modules <NUM> may be provided as four pillar modules <NUM> respectively disposed at edge portions of the platform <NUM> having a quadrangular cross-section. However, the number of pillar modules <NUM> and the arrangement state of the pillar modules <NUM> are not limited thereto, but may be variously changed in design depending on the cross-sectional shape or the like of the platform <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a configuration of the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure when viewed at a point in time different from a point in time in <FIG>, and <FIG> is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the pillar module <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes a pillar body <NUM>, a drive unit <NUM>, a switching unit <NUM>, a first lighting unit <NUM>, a second lighting unit <NUM>, a kinetic lighting unit <NUM>, a line lighting unit <NUM>, a speaker unit <NUM>, a flap <NUM>, a detection unit <NUM>, and a control unit <NUM>.

The pillar body <NUM> defines a schematic external appearance of the pillar module <NUM> and entirely supports the drive unit <NUM>, the switching unit <NUM>, the first lighting unit <NUM>, the second lighting unit <NUM>, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>, the line lighting unit <NUM>, the speaker unit <NUM>, the flap <NUM>, and the detection unit <NUM> which will be described below. The pillar body <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be provided in the form of a box or wheel housing opened at an outer side thereof and having an empty interior at a lower side thereof. Therefore, the pillar body <NUM> may provide a space at the lower side thereof so that the drive unit <NUM> to be described below may be installed in the space. An upper side of the pillar body <NUM> may be provided in the form of a column extending in an upward/downward direction. However, the shape of the pillar body <NUM> is not limited to the shape illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. The pillar body <NUM> may be variously changed in design in order to entirely support the drive unit <NUM>, the switching unit <NUM>, the first lighting unit <NUM>, the second lighting unit <NUM>, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>, the line lighting unit <NUM>, the speaker unit <NUM>, the flap <NUM>, and the detection unit <NUM>.

The pillar body <NUM> may have an accommodation portion <NUM> for accommodating the switching unit <NUM>, the first lighting unit <NUM>, and the second lighting unit <NUM> which will be described below. The accommodation portion <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be provided in the form of a groove concavely extending toward the inside of the pillar body <NUM> from a front surface of the pillar body <NUM> disposed to be directed toward a front or rear side of the vehicle. The accommodation portion <NUM> may be disposed at a lower side of the pillar body <NUM>. An opening side 111a may be formed in one surface of the accommodation portion <NUM> and connect an internal space of the accommodation portion <NUM> and an external space of the accommodation portion <NUM>. The opening side 111a may be disposed on the same plane as the front surface of the pillar body <NUM>. The cross-sectional shape and cross-sectional area of the accommodation portion <NUM> are not limited to the shapes or areas illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>. The accommodation portion <NUM> may be variously changed in design depending on the specifications of the switching unit <NUM>, the first lighting unit <NUM>, and the second lighting unit <NUM> which will be described below.

The drive unit <NUM> is connected to the pillar body <NUM> and supports the pillar body <NUM> so that the pillar body <NUM> is movable. More specifically, the drive unit <NUM> is connected to the pillar body <NUM> and configured to perform overall functions such as a driving function, a braking function, a suspension function, and a steering function of the vehicle. Examples of the drive unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include various types of independent drive wheels each including a wheel rotatably installed in the internal space at the lower side of the pillar body <NUM>, an in-wheel motor configured to provide a rotational force to the wheel, a suspension configured to support the wheel on the pillar body <NUM>, and a steering actuator configured to adjust a steering angle of the wheel by generating a rotational force. An operation of the drive unit <NUM> may be adjusted by the control operation of the control unit <NUM> or operations of a steering wheel, an accelerator, and a brake pedal made by a driver.

The switching unit <NUM> is installed on the pillar body <NUM> and connected to the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM> which will be described below. The switching unit <NUM> selectively exposes the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM> to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>. More specifically, the switching unit <NUM> is installed in the accommodation portion <NUM> and serves to adjust positions of the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM> so that the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM> selectively face the opening side 110a in the accommodation portion <NUM> by driving power thereof. Therefore, the switching unit <NUM> may improve spatial utilization and an overall aesthetic appearance of the product in comparison with a case in which the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM>, which create different lighting patterns, are installed at different positions on the pillar body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a configuration of the switching unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the switching unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes a switching case <NUM> and a switching actuator <NUM>.

The switching case <NUM> is rotatably installed in the accommodation portion <NUM> and supports the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM>. The switching case <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be formed to have an approximately box shape and disposed in the accommodation portion <NUM>. The switching case <NUM> may be supported in the accommodation portion <NUM> so as to be rotatable about a central axis thereof. In this case, the central axis of the switching case <NUM> may be disposed in parallel with the opening side 110a of the accommodation portion <NUM>. For example, the central axis of the switching case <NUM> may be disposed in parallel with a height direction of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., a direction perpendicular to the ground surface. The switching case <NUM> may be formed so that a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis has a polygonal shape. In this case, a peripheral surface of the switching case <NUM> may have a shape made by disposing a plurality of flat surfaces at predetermined angles around the central axis of the switching case <NUM>. Therefore, in case that the first lighting unit <NUM> or the second lighting unit <NUM>, which will be described below, is disposed to face the opening side 110a, the switching case <NUM> may guide light, which is emitted from the first lighting unit <NUM> or the second lighting unit <NUM>, so that the light is emitted to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> through the opening side 110a.

The switching actuator <NUM> is connected to the switching case <NUM> and generates a rotational force to rotate the switching case <NUM> about the central axis. Examples of the switching actuator <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include various types of electric motors that generate the rotational force by receiving power from the outside. The switching actuator <NUM> may be disposed in the pillar body <NUM>. An output shaft of the switching actuator <NUM> may be connected directly to the switching case <NUM> and transmit the rotational force to the switching case <NUM>. Alternatively, the output shaft of the switching actuator <NUM> may be connected to the switching case <NUM> by means of a separate gear or the like and transmit the rotational force to the switching case <NUM>. The switching actuator <NUM> may be electrically connected to the control unit <NUM>, and an operation of the switching actuator <NUM> may be adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM>.

The first lighting unit <NUM> is installed on the pillar body <NUM> and creates a first lighting pattern. More specifically, the first lighting unit <NUM> may be disposed in the accommodation portion <NUM> and connected to one side of the switching case <NUM>. When the switching case <NUM> rotates, the first lighting unit <NUM> may rotate together with the switching case <NUM> in the accommodation portion <NUM>, such that a relative position of the first lighting unit <NUM> with respect to the opening side 110a may vary. In case that the first lighting unit <NUM> is disposed to face the opening side 110a, the first lighting unit <NUM> may be exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> and display the first lighting pattern, which is created through the opening side 110a, to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of the first lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the first lighting unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include a road surface illumination lamp <NUM> and a headlamp <NUM>. In this case, the first lighting pattern, which is created by the first lighting unit <NUM>, may mean a lighting pattern displayed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> by the road surface illumination lamp <NUM>, the headlamp <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

The road surface illumination lamp <NUM> is connected to any one of peripheral surfaces of the switching case <NUM> and rotates together with the switching case <NUM>. The road surface illumination lamp <NUM> is disposed to face the opening side 110a and emits an optical image toward the road surface. For example, the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be a projection device configured to project an optical image printed on a film or the like or a beam projector configured to project a recorded digital image. A central axis of a lens of the road surface illumination lamp <NUM>, which emits an optical image, is disposed to be inclined downward at a predetermined angle with respect to a direction parallel to the ground surface. Therefore, the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> may guide the optical image emitted to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> so that the optical image is displayed on the road surface. Whether to turn on or off the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> may be adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM> to be described below.

The headlamp <NUM> is disposed to be spaced apart from the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> and rotates together with the switching case <NUM>. The headlamp <NUM> may be connected to the peripheral surface, which is identical to the peripheral surface to which the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> is connected among the peripheral surfaces of the switching case <NUM>. For example, the headlamp <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> in an upward/downward direction on the same peripheral surface of the switching case <NUM>. As the headlamp <NUM> is disposed to face the opening side 110a, the headlamp <NUM> emits a beam pattern such as a low beam or a high beam to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>. Examples of the headlamp <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include various types of headlamp devices that include light sources, reflectors, lenses, and the like and illuminate a traveling route of the vehicle. Whether to turn on or off the headlamp <NUM> may be adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM> to be described below.

The second lighting unit <NUM> is disposed to be spaced apart from the first lighting unit <NUM> and creates a second lighting pattern. More specifically, the second lighting unit <NUM> may be disposed in the accommodation portion <NUM> and connected to the other side of the switching case <NUM>. When the switching case <NUM> rotates, the second lighting unit <NUM> may rotate together with the switching case <NUM> in the accommodation portion <NUM>, such that a relative position of the second lighting unit <NUM> with respect to the opening side 110a may vary. In case that the second lighting unit <NUM> is disposed to face the opening side 110a, the second lighting unit <NUM> may be exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> and display the second lighting pattern, which is created through the opening side 110a, to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>. In this case, in case that the first lighting unit <NUM> is disposed to face the opening side 110a, the second lighting unit <NUM> may be disposed to face an inner surface of the accommodation portion <NUM>. Therefore, the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM> may be selectively exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of the second lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the second lighting unit <NUM> according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of pixel lamps <NUM>. In this case, the second lighting pattern created by the second lighting unit <NUM> may mean a lighting pattern displayed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> by the plurality of pixel lamps <NUM>.

The plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> may rotate together with the switching case <NUM> and be independently turned on or off. The plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> may be connected to a peripheral surface which is different from the peripheral surface to which the first lighting unit <NUM> is connected among the peripheral surfaces of the switching case <NUM>. The plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> may be arranged in the form of a lattice on the peripheral surface of the switching case <NUM>. For example, the plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> may be arranged in two or more rows in the horizontal and vertical directions on the peripheral surface of the switching case <NUM>. For example, each of the pixel lamps <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be an light-emitting diode (LED) lamp that may emit light by receiving power from the outside. The turned-on state of each of the plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> may be independently adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM> to be described below.

The kinetic lighting unit <NUM> is movably installed on the pillar body <NUM> and creates a kinetic lighting pattern. More specifically, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> serves to create a lighting pattern made by a combination of a lighting signal, which is made by light, and a dynamic signal that is made by a physical motion for interacting with an object such as a pedestrian positioned outside the pillar body <NUM>. The kinetic lighting unit <NUM> may be disposed above the first lighting unit <NUM> and the second lighting unit <NUM>. Therefore, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> may be disposed at a position adjacent to a height of the eyes of the pedestrian positioned outside the pillar body <NUM>, thereby further improving visibility of the lighting pattern.

<FIG> is a perspective view schematically illustrating a configuration of the kinetic lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, <FIG> is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration of the kinetic lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, and <FIG> and <FIG> are side views schematically illustrating a configuration of the kinetic lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM>. In this case, the kinetic lighting pattern created by the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> may mean a lighting pattern displayed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> by operations of the plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM>.

The plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM> may be disposed at a central portion of the pillar body <NUM>, more specifically disposed between the accommodation portion <NUM> and the detection unit <NUM> to be described below. The plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM> may be installed on the pillar body <NUM> so as to be independently moved and turned on or off. The plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from one another at predetermined intervals in the upward/downward direction in the height direction of the pillar body <NUM>. The plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM> may create various types of kinetic lighting patterns while being independently moved and turned on or off under the control of the control unit <NUM> to be described below.

The kinetic lighting member <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes a kinetic panel 431a, a kinetic actuator 431b, and a kinetic lamp 431c.

The kinetic panel 431a may be formed to have a rod shape having an empty interior and opened at one side thereof. The kinetic panel 431a may be disposed so that the open side thereof is directed toward the pillar body <NUM>. The open side of the kinetic panel 431a may be inserted into the pillar body <NUM>. In this case, the kinetic panel 431a may be inserted into an inner surface of the pillar body <NUM> disposed to face the main cabin <NUM>, which will be described below, between two opposite lateral surfaces of the pillar body <NUM>. Alternatively, the kinetic panel 431a may be inserted into an outer surface of the pillar body <NUM> disposed to be directed toward the outside of the vehicle. The closed side of the kinetic panel 431a may be disposed on the same plane as the outer surface of the pillar body <NUM>. That is, the closed side of the kinetic panel 431a may be disposed to define a continuous plane together with the outer surface of the pillar body <NUM>.

The kinetic panel 431a may be disposed so that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to a forward/rearward direction of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., an extension direction of the accommodation portion <NUM>. One side of the kinetic panel 431a may be disposed to be directed toward a rear surface of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., a side opposite to the side at which the opening side 110a is defined. The other side of the kinetic panel 431a may be disposed to be directed toward the front surface of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., the same side at which the opening side 110a is defined.

One side of the kinetic panel 431a may be rotatably connected to the pillar body <NUM>. In this case, one side of the kinetic panel 431a may be supported to be rotatable about the height direction of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., the direction perpendicular to the ground surface. The other side of the kinetic panel 431a may protrude outward from the pillar body <NUM> or be inserted into the pillar body <NUM> depending on the rotation direction. In case that the other side of the kinetic panel 431a protrudes outward from the pillar body <NUM>, an empty space may be defined between the kinetic panel 431a and the pillar body <NUM>.

The kinetic actuator 431b is connected to one side of the kinetic panel 431a and generates a rotational force to rotate the kinetic panel 431a. Examples of the kinetic actuator 431b according to the present embodiment may include various types of electric motors that generate the rotational force by receiving power from the outside. The kinetic actuator 431b may be disposed in the pillar body <NUM>. An output shaft of the kinetic actuator 431b may be connected directly to one side of the kinetic panel 431a and transmit the rotational force to the kinetic panel 431a. Alternatively, the output shaft of the kinetic actuator 431b may be connected to one side of the kinetic panel 431a by means of a separate gear and transmit the rotational force to the kinetic panel 431a. The kinetic actuator 431b may be electrically connected to the control unit <NUM> to be described below, and an operation of the kinetic actuator 431b may be adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM>.

The kinetic lamp 431c may be provided to be turned on or off. The kinetic lamp 431c is exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> as the other side of the kinetic panel 431a protrudes outward from the pillar body <NUM>. Examples of the kinetic lamp 431c according to the present embodiment may include various types of LED lamps that may generate light by receiving power from the outside. The kinetic lamp 431c may be disposed between the open side of the kinetic panel 431a and the pillar body <NUM>. The kinetic lamp 431c may be disposed at an end of the other side of the kinetic panel 431a. Therefore, the kinetic lamp 431c may be exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> as the other side of the kinetic panel 431a protrudes outward from the pillar body <NUM> and the empty space is defined between the kinetic panel 431a and the pillar body <NUM>. In this case, the kinetic lamp 431c may be connected integrally with the other side of the kinetic panel 431a and rotate together with the other side of the kinetic panel 431a. Alternatively, the kinetic lamp 431c may be separated from the kinetic panel 431a and fixed in position between the kinetic panel 431a and the pillar body <NUM>. The turned-on state of the kinetic lamp 431c may be adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM>.

The line lighting unit <NUM> extends in the upward/downward direction along the outer surface of the pillar body <NUM> and creates a line lighting pattern. The line lighting unit <NUM> may be disposed on the front surface of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., at a side identical to the side at which the opening side 110a is defined.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the line lighting unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include a plurality of line lamps <NUM>. In this case, the line lighting pattern created by the line lighting unit <NUM> may mean a lighting pattern displayed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM> by operations of the plurality of line lamps <NUM>.

The plurality of line lamps <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from one another in the extension direction of the line lighting unit <NUM>. The plurality of line lamps <NUM> may be installed to be independently turned on or off. Therefore, only the plurality of line lamps <NUM> in a partial section of the entire section of the line lighting unit <NUM> may be turned on, thereby implementing various types of lighting patterns. Examples of the line lamps <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include various types of LED lamps that may generate light by receiving power from the outside. The turned-on state of each of the plurality of line lamps <NUM> may be independently adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM> to be described below.

The speaker unit <NUM> is installed on the pillar body <NUM> and outputs sound to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>. The speaker unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be a directional speaker that outputs sound at a predetermined angle in a particular direction or about the particular direction. Therefore, the speaker unit <NUM> may output and guide sound so that the sound is concentrated on an object positioned outside the pillar body <NUM>, thereby improving the recognition efficiency and preventing the occurrence of noise. The speaker unit <NUM> may be disposed in the pillar body <NUM>. The speaker unit <NUM> may be disposed between the accommodation portion <NUM> and the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>. The speaker unit <NUM> may be disposed to be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the upper side of the pillar body <NUM>. That is, the speaker unit <NUM> may be disposed so that a direction in which sound is transmitted is inclined upward at a predetermined angle with respect to the direction parallel to the ground surface.

The flap <NUM> is disposed to face the drive unit <NUM> and prevents air from being introduced between the pillar body <NUM> and the drive unit <NUM>. Therefore, the flap <NUM> may prevent deterioration in traveling performance and fuel economy caused by air resistance.

Referring to <FIG>, the flap <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be formed to have an approximately plate shape. An inner surface of the flap <NUM> may be disposed to face an outer surface of the drive unit <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example in which the single flap <NUM> is formed for any one pillar body <NUM>. However, the flap <NUM> is not limited thereto, and a plurality of flaps <NUM> may be formed for any one pillar body <NUM>. The flap <NUM> may be movably connected to the pillar body <NUM> and move in conjunction with a steering operation of the drive unit <NUM>. The flap <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be slidably connected to the pillar body <NUM> by means of a guide rail or the like. In this case, the flap <NUM> may be supported to be slidable in a direction parallel to a width direction of the pillar body <NUM>. The flap <NUM> may include a power device (not illustrated) such as an electric motor or a hydraulic cylinder and slide by receiving driving power from the power device. In this case, an operation of the flap <NUM> may be adjusted under the control of the control unit <NUM> to be described below. Therefore, the flap <NUM> may guide a smooth steering operation of the drive unit <NUM>. <FIG> is an enlarged view schematically illustrating an operating state of the flap according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the wheel of the drive unit <NUM> protrudes from a lateral surface of the pillar body <NUM> when the vehicle turns.

Because the wheel of the drive unit <NUM> protrudes from the lateral surface of the pillar body <NUM>, the flap <NUM> slides toward the outside of the pillar body <NUM> under the control of the control unit <NUM> and is prevented from coming into contact with the drive unit <NUM>.

A movement amount of the flap <NUM> may increase in proportion to a steering angle of the wheel of the drive unit <NUM>.

Thereafter, when a steering angle set to the wheel of the drive unit <NUM> is eliminated so that the vehicle travels straight, the flap <NUM> may return to an initial position while sliding toward the pillar body <NUM> under the control of the control unit <NUM>.

The detection unit <NUM> is installed on the pillar body <NUM> and detects an object at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM>. In this case, examples of the object at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> may include various types of objects such as pedestrians, the driver, obstacles that may be positioned at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM>. The detection unit <NUM> may be disposed at the upper side of the pillar body <NUM>, more specifically, above the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>. Therefore, a detection range in which the detection unit <NUM> detects an object may be expanded in comparison with the case in which the detection unit <NUM> is disposed at a lower side of the pillar body <NUM>.

<FIG> is an enlarged view schematically illustrating a configuration of the detection unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the detection unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include a first detection member <NUM> and a second detection member <NUM>.

The first detection member <NUM> is rotatably installed on the pillar body <NUM> and rotates in conjunction with a change in relative position between the pillar body <NUM> and an object.

The first detection member <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include a first detection body <NUM>, a vision sensor <NUM>, and a lidar sensor <NUM>.

The first detection body <NUM> may be disposed in the pillar body <NUM>, and one surface of the first detection body <NUM> may be exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>. The first detection body <NUM> may be connected to the pillar body <NUM> so as to be rotatable about an axis in height direction of the pillar body <NUM>, i.e., the direction perpendicular to the ground surface. The first detection body <NUM> is connected to the vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM>, which will be described below, and entirely supports the vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM>. In addition, the first detection body <NUM> may be connected to an electric motor (not illustrated) or the like that operates under the control of the control unit <NUM>, such that a rotation angle of the first detection body <NUM> may be adjusted. The first detection body <NUM> may change the positions of the vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM> while being rotated relative to the pillar body <NUM> by the operation of the electric motor. Therefore, the first detection body <NUM> may expand the detection ranges of the vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM> each having a relatively small angle of view.

The vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM> may acquire three-dimensional images of the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> and detect position information, distance information, direction information, speed information, and the like of the object at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> on the basis of the acquired images. The vision sensor <NUM> may be implemented as a dynamic vision sensor (DVS). The lidar sensor <NUM> may be implemented by a TOF (time of flight) manner or a phase-shift manner. The vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM> may be connected to one surface of the first detection body <NUM> and exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>. When the first detection body <NUM> rotates, the vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM> rotate together with the first detection body <NUM> relative to the pillar body <NUM>. The vision sensor <NUM> and the lidar sensor <NUM> may be electrically connected to the control unit <NUM> and transmit the detected data to the control unit <NUM>.

In addition, the first detection member <NUM> may of course include any sensor that may acquire information on the object at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> while rotating relative to the pillar body <NUM> even though the sensor is not described above.

The second detection member <NUM> is fixed to the pillar body <NUM> and detects the object at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM>.

The second detection member <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include a camera <NUM> configured to capture a two-dimensional image of the periphery of the pillar body <NUM>, and a radar sensor <NUM> configured to detect distance information of the object positioned at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> by using an electromagnetic wave.

The camera <NUM> may be disposed below the first detection member <NUM>. The camera <NUM> may be electrically connected to the control unit <NUM> and transfer information on the captured two-dimensional image of the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> to the control unit <NUM>.

The radar sensor <NUM> may be disposed in the pillar body <NUM>. The radar sensor <NUM> may be electrically connected to the control unit <NUM> and transmit the detected data to the control unit <NUM>.

In addition, the second detection member <NUM> may of course include any sensor that may be fixed to the pillar body <NUM> and additionally acquire information on the object at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM> even though the sensor is not described above.

The control unit <NUM> controls the overall operations of the drive unit <NUM>, the switching unit <NUM>, the first lighting unit <NUM>, the second lighting unit <NUM>, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>, the line lighting unit <NUM>, the speaker unit <NUM>, the flap <NUM>, and the detection unit <NUM>. More specifically, the control unit <NUM> may control the operations of the drive unit <NUM>, the switching unit <NUM>, the first lighting unit <NUM>, the second lighting unit <NUM>, the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>, the line lighting unit <NUM>, the speaker unit <NUM>, the flap <NUM>, and the detection unit <NUM> on the basis of data detected by the detection unit <NUM>, data inputted in advance by the user, whether the vehicle is stationary, whether the vehicle is turned on or off, whether the battery is charged, whether the vehicle is steered, and the like.

The control unit <NUM> may include at least any one of an electronic control unit (ECU), a central processing unit (CPU), a processor, and a system on chip (SoC). The control unit <NUM> may control a plurality of hardware or software constituent elements by operating an operating system or an application and perform various types of data processing and computation. The control unit <NUM> may be configured to execute at least one instruction stored in a memory and store data, related to the result of executing the instruction, in the memory. The control unit <NUM> may include at least any one of a radio frequency (RF) device, a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) device, a Bluetooth device, a Zigbee device, and a near field communication (NFC) device that may implement various types of communication protocols that may receive the data detected by the detection unit <NUM> and the input signal generated from a terminal of the driver or various types of input devices.

Hereinafter, an operation of the pillar module <NUM> according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

<FIG> is a view schematically illustrating an operation of creating the first lighting pattern by the first lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, when the control unit <NUM> determines that the vehicle is turned on, the control unit <NUM> operates the switching actuator <NUM> so that the switching case <NUM> rotates in the direction in which the first lighting unit <NUM> faces the opening side 110a.

When the first lighting unit <NUM> is disposed to face the opening side 110a and exposed to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>, the control unit <NUM> operates the road surface illumination lamp <NUM>.

More specifically, when the control unit <NUM> determines that the vehicle is stationary or moves rearward, the control unit <NUM> turns on the road surface illumination lamp <NUM>.

The road surface illumination lamp <NUM> emits an optical image on the road surface at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM>.

Therefore, the road surface illumination lamp <NUM> indicates a walking direction for a pedestrian by means of the optical image, which makes it possible to ensure safety for the pedestrian and enable the pedestrian to easily recognize the presence of the vehicle.

In addition, the control unit <NUM> may turn on the headlamp <NUM> on the basis of the user's input or data detected by a separate illuminance sensor (not illustrated), and the headlamp <NUM> may emit a beam pattern to the outside of the vehicle.

<FIG> is a view schematically illustrating an operation of creating the second lighting pattern by the second lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, when the control unit <NUM> determines that the vehicle is turned off or the battery is being charged, the control unit <NUM> operates the switching actuator <NUM> so that the switching case <NUM> rotates in the direction in which the second lighting unit <NUM> faces the opening side 110a.

In case that the battery is being charged, the control unit <NUM> may turn on the plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> in proportion to a charge capacity of the battery.

For example, the control unit <NUM> may calculate a ratio of the current charge amount of the battery to the maximum charge amount of the battery, turn on the pixel lamps <NUM> corresponding in number to the calculated ratio among all the pixel lamps <NUM>, and turn off the remaining pixel lamps <NUM>.

Thereafter, as the current charge amount of the battery increases, the control unit <NUM> may sequentially turn on the turned-off pixel lamps <NUM> in the preset order.

In this case, the order in which the plurality of pixel lamps <NUM> is turned on is not limited to the order illustrated in <FIG>, but may be changed in design to various orders.

<FIG> is a view schematically illustrating an operation of creating the kinetic lighting pattern by the kinetic lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the control unit <NUM> may operate the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> when the control unit <NUM> receives a separate input signal from the user, when the pedestrian is detected by the detection unit <NUM>, or when a preset condition related to charging of the battery or the like is satisfied.

In this case, the control unit <NUM> may sequentially operate the plurality of kinetic lighting members <NUM>.

For example, the control unit <NUM> may sequentially operate the plurality of kinetic actuators 431b so that the other sides of the kinetic panels 431a protrude outward from the pillar body <NUM> in the order from the kinetic lighting member <NUM> positioned at the lower side to the kinetic lighting member <NUM> positioned at the upper side.

Thereafter, the control unit <NUM> may sequentially operate the plurality of kinetic actuators 431b so that the other sides of the kinetic panels 431a are inserted back into the pillar body <NUM> in the order from the kinetic lighting member <NUM> positioned at the lower side to the kinetic lighting member <NUM> positioned at the upper side.

At the same time, the control unit <NUM> may maintain the turned-on state of the plurality of kinetic lamps 431c.

However, the operations of the plurality of kinetic panels 431a and the operations of the kinetic lamps 431c are not limited thereto, and the plurality of kinetic panels 431a and the kinetic lamps 431c may be rotated and turned on in a preset order or randomly.

<FIG> are views schematically illustrating an operation of creating the line lighting pattern by the line lighting unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, in case that the control unit <NUM> determines that the detection unit <NUM> is detecting an object positioned at the periphery of the pillar body <NUM>, the control unit <NUM> may turn on the line lamps <NUM> positioned in an upper section of the line lighting unit <NUM> among the plurality of line lamps <NUM>. In this case, for example, the upper section of the line lighting unit <NUM> may be a section positioned above the first detection member <NUM> among all the sections of the line lighting unit <NUM>.

Therefore, the line lighting unit <NUM> may display the situation, in which the detection unit <NUM> currently recognizes the pedestrian or the like positioned outside the pillar body <NUM>, to the outside of the pillar body <NUM>, thereby providing psychological stability to the pedestrian or the like.

Referring to <FIG>, in case that the control unit <NUM> determines that the first lighting unit <NUM> or the second lighting unit <NUM> is operating, the control unit <NUM> may turn on the line lamps <NUM> positioned in a lower section of the line lighting unit <NUM> among the plurality of line lamps <NUM>. In this case, the lower section of the line lighting unit <NUM> may be variously changed in design within a section range positioned below the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> among all the sections of the line lighting unit <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in case that the control unit <NUM> determines that the kinetic lighting unit <NUM> is operating, the control unit <NUM> may turn on the line lamps <NUM> positioned in a central section of the line lighting unit <NUM> among the plurality of line lamps <NUM>. In this case, for example, the central section of the line lighting unit <NUM> may be a section between the upper section and the lower section of the line lighting unit <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in case that the control unit <NUM> determines that the vehicle is traveling, the control unit <NUM> may turn on all the plurality of line lamps <NUM>. In this case, the line lighting unit <NUM> may serve as a daytime running light (DRL).

In addition, in case that the control unit <NUM> determines that the vehicle is turning or is to turn, the control unit <NUM> may repeatedly turn on and off the plurality of line lamps <NUM> at preset time intervals. In this case, the line lighting unit <NUM> may serve as a turn signal light.

The main cabin <NUM> is disposed above the platform <NUM> and has an internal space in which a passenger is seated. The main cabin <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be provided in the form of a box opened at a lower side thereof and having an empty interior. Various items and devices such as a seat, an operation panel, a table, and the like, which conform to the purpose of the occupant, may be installed in the main cabin <NUM>. In a state in which the open lower side of the main cabin <NUM> is disposed to be directed toward the upper surface of the platform <NUM>, the main cabin <NUM> may move downward toward the platform <NUM>, such that the main cabin <NUM> may be seated on the platform <NUM>. In case that the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>, an upper end of the main cabin <NUM> may be positioned at a lower height than an upper end of the pillar body <NUM>. In case that the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>, an outer surface of the main cabin <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from the inner surface of the pillar body <NUM> at a predetermined interval. Therefore, the main cabin <NUM> may ensure an operating space for the kinetic lighting unit <NUM>. In the state in which the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the upper surface of the platform <NUM>, the main cabin <NUM> may move upward from the platform <NUM>, such that the main cabin <NUM> may be separated from the platform <NUM>. Therefore, the main cabin <NUM> may be freely replaced. The cross-sectional area and the shape of the main cabin <NUM> are not limited to the shapes illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, but may be variously changed in design depending on the shape of the platform <NUM> or the like.

The docking unit <NUM> is provided between the pillar module <NUM> and the main cabin <NUM> and fastens the pillar module <NUM> and the main cabin <NUM> while operating in conjunction with the upward movement of the main cabin <NUM>.

<FIG> is an enlarged view schematically illustrating a configuration of the docking unit according to the present embodiment.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the docking unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes a first docking member <NUM> and a second docking member <NUM>.

The first docking member <NUM> is provided on the pillar body <NUM> and defines an external appearance of one side of the docking unit <NUM>. The first docking member <NUM> according to the present embodiment may formed to have a cylindrical shape extending from one side of the pillar body <NUM>. The first docking member <NUM> may be disposed so that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to a direction in which the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>. That is, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first docking member <NUM> may be disposed so that the longitudinal direction thereof is perpendicular to the ground surface. The arrangement position of the first docking member <NUM> is not limited to that illustrated in <FIG>, but may be variously changed in design to a position at which the first docking member <NUM> may perpendicularly face the main cabin <NUM> in the upward/downward direction during the process in which the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>. The first docking member <NUM> may be provided as a plurality of first docking members <NUM>. The plurality of first docking members <NUM> may be independently installed for each of the pillar bodies <NUM> provided on the pillar modules <NUM>.

The second docking member <NUM> is provided on the main cabin <NUM> and defines an external appearance of the other side of the docking unit <NUM>. As the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>, the first docking member <NUM> may be inserted into the second docking member <NUM> and fasten the pillar module <NUM> and the main cabin <NUM>. The second docking member <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be provided in the form of a groove concavely recessed upward from a lower surface of the main cabin <NUM>. The second docking member <NUM> may be disposed so that a longitudinal direction thereof is parallel to the direction in which the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>. That is, as illustrated in <FIG>, the second docking member <NUM> may be disposed so that the longitudinal direction thereof is perpendicular to the ground surface. In case that the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>, the second docking member <NUM> may be disposed at a position at which a central axis of the second docking member <NUM> is positioned coaxially with a central axis of the first docking member <NUM>. The second docking member <NUM> may be provided as a plurality of second docking members <NUM>. The plurality of second docking members <NUM> may correspond in number to the first docking members <NUM>.

The example has been described above in which the first docking member <NUM> is inserted into the second docking member <NUM>. However, the first docking member <NUM> and the second docking member <NUM> are not limited thereto, and the second docking member <NUM> may be inserted into the first docking member <NUM>. In this case, the first docking member <NUM> may be provided in the form of a groove concavely recessed toward the inside of the pillar body <NUM>, and the second docking member <NUM> may be provided in the form of a protrusion protruding from the main cabin <NUM>.

The stopper <NUM> is installed on the pillar body <NUM> and prevents the main cabin <NUM> from separating from the platform <NUM>. That is, after the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM> and the first docking member <NUM> and the second docking member <NUM> are fastened to each other, the stopper <NUM> serves to restrict an upward movement of the main cabin <NUM> toward an upper side of the platform <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> may be provided as a plurality of stoppers <NUM>. The plurality of stoppers <NUM> may be independently installed for each of the pillar bodies <NUM> provided on the pillar modules <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> are views schematically illustrating a configuration and an operating state of the stopper according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the stopper <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be provided in the form of a rod extending from the upper end of the pillar body <NUM> toward the main cabin <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> may be detachably coupled to the pillar body <NUM>. Therefore, the stopper <NUM> may not interfere with the main cabin <NUM> during the process in which the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> may be disposed to intersect the direction in which the first docking member <NUM> and the second docking member <NUM> are inserted, i.e., the direction in which the main cabin <NUM> is seated on the platform <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, the stopper <NUM> may be disposed to be inclined at a predetermined angle toward the main cabin <NUM> with respect to the direction perpendicular to the ground surface. As the main cabin <NUM> is completely seated on the platform <NUM>, the stopper <NUM> may be coupled to the pillar body <NUM>, and a lower surface of the stopper <NUM> comes into contact with the upper surface of the main cabin <NUM>, which makes it possible to prevent the separation of the main cabin <NUM>.

The door unit <NUM> opens or closes the internal space of the main cabin <NUM> so that the passenger may get in the main cabin <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration of the door unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the door unit <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes a door <NUM> and a door control unit <NUM>.

The door <NUM> is movably connected to the main cabin <NUM> and opens or closes the internal space of the main cabin <NUM> depending on a movement direction. Examples of the door <NUM> according to the present embodiment may include various types of opening/closing means that may open or close the internal space of the main cabin <NUM> in a hinged or sliding manner. The door <NUM> may be provided as a plurality of doors <NUM>. The plurality of doors <NUM> may be disposed to be spaced apart from one another along the peripheral surface of the main cabin <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an example in which two doors <NUM> are provided, but the number of doors <NUM> and the arrangement state of the door <NUM> are not limited thereto. The number of doors <NUM> and the arrangement state of the door <NUM> may be variously changed in design.

The door control unit <NUM> individually controls the operation of opening or closing the plurality of doors <NUM> on the basis of data detected from the detection unit <NUM>. The door control unit <NUM> may include at least any one of an electronic control unit (ECU), a central processing unit (CPU), a processor, and a system on chip (SoC). The door control unit <NUM> may control a plurality of hardware or software constituent elements by operating an operating system or an application and perform various types of data processing and computation. The door control unit <NUM> may be configured to execute at least one instruction stored in a memory and store data, related to the result of executing the instruction, in the memory. The door control unit <NUM> may include at least any one of a radio frequency (RF) device, a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) device, a Bluetooth device, a Zigbee device, and a near field communication (NFC) device that may implement various types of communication protocols that may receive the data detected by the detection unit <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view schematically illustrating an operating state of the door unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, as a driver, a passenger, or the like approaches the periphery of the vehicle, the detection unit <NUM> detects a position of the driver, the passenger, or the like.

The door control unit <NUM> calculates a distance from the door <NUM> and the detection unit <NUM> to the detected driver or passenger on the basis of information on the position of the driver or passenger detected by the detection unit <NUM> and previously inputted information on the positions of the plurality of doors <NUM>.

The door control unit <NUM> determines the door <NUM> positioned to be closest to the driver or passenger, among the plurality of doors <NUM>, on the basis of the calculated distance information, and opens the corresponding door <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front view schematically illustrating a configuration of a vehicle having a pillar module according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

The vehicle having the pillar module according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure differs from the vehicle having the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure only in that the vehicle having the pillar module according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a transport cabin <NUM>. Therefore, in the description of the configuration of the vehicle having the pillar module according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, only the transport cabin <NUM>, which is the difference between the vehicle having the pillar module according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure and the vehicle having the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, will be described. The corresponding description of the vehicle having the pillar module according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure applies without change to the description of the remaining components of the vehicle having the pillar module according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the vehicle having the pillar module according to the present embodiment may further include the transport cabin <NUM>.

The transport cabin <NUM> is stacked on the main cabin <NUM> and detachably coupled to the main cabin <NUM>. The transport cabin <NUM> serves to expand a luggage loading space of the vehicle separately from the main cabin <NUM>.

The transport cabin <NUM> according to the present embodiment may be provided in the form of a box opened at a lower side thereof and having an empty interior. A cross-sectional area of the transport cabin <NUM> may be smaller than a cross-sectional area of the main cabin <NUM>. Therefore, in case that the transport cabin <NUM> is stacked on the main cabin <NUM>, the interference with the stopper <NUM> may be prevented. The transport cabin <NUM> may be detachably coupled to the main cabin <NUM> by bolting, docking, or the like.

The transport cabin <NUM> may be provided as a plurality of transport cabins <NUM>. The plurality of transport cabins <NUM> may be sequentially stacked on the main cabin <NUM>. In this case, the transport cabin <NUM>, which is disposed at a lowermost end among the plurality of transport cabins <NUM>, may be detachably coupled to the main cabin <NUM>. The adjacent transport cabins <NUM> may be detachably coupled to each other by bolting, docking, or the like. Therefore, the number of stacked transport cabins <NUM> may be freely adjusted depending on a capacity for luggage to be loaded.

Claim 1:
A pillar module (<NUM>) comprising:
a pillar body (<NUM>);
a drive unit (<NUM>) connected to the pillar body (<NUM>) and configured to support the pillar body (<NUM>) so that the pillar body (<NUM>) is movable;
a first lighting unit (<NUM>) installed on the pillar body (<NUM>) and configured to create a first lighting pattern;
a second lighting unit (<NUM>) disposed to be spaced apart from the first lighting unit (<NUM>) and configured to create a second lighting pattern; and
a switching unit (<NUM>) connected to the first lighting unit (<NUM>) and the second lighting unit (<NUM>) and configured to selectively expose the first lighting unit (<NUM>) and the second lighting unit (<NUM>) to the outside of the pillar body (<NUM>).