Steering wheel

Abstract

The usability of the steering wheel is improved. A steering wheel (1) is provided with a grip body (2) formed so as to be able to be gripped by a driver. The grip body (2) is provided with: a core rod (3); and at least one support body (4) disposed on the core rod (3) and covering at least a portion of the core rod (3). In the steering wheel (1), at least a heater electrode layer (5a) and a detection electrode layer (5e), or an integrated electrode layer (5f) in which these layers are integrally configured as one layer, are provided on the other surface of the support body (4) on the opposite side from the one surface on the side of the core rod (3), and a resin molded layer (6) is provided on the gripping body (2), which covers each layer on the support body (4) together with the support body (4).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a steering wheel. BACKGROUND

[0002] In Patent Literature 1, there is described an electrode structure body which is arranged on a steering wheel provided on a vehicle, and which includes: an insulator; a first electrode which is arranged on a first face of the insulator which is opposite to a core rod of the steering wheel; a second electrode which is arranged on a second face of the insulator which is opposite to the first face; a protruding portion which protrudes from the insulator toward the core rod; and an engaging portion which engages with the core rod. According to Patent Literature 1, with this electrode structure body, it is possible to ensure the appearance of the steering wheel, and it is possible to suppress the increase in the manufacturing cost of the steering wheel.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-032819 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] However, there is room for further improvement in the usability of the steering wheel. For example, in Patent Literature 1, the structure of the electrode provided in the steering wheel and the feeling of the driver when gripping the steering wheel are not sufficiently studied.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present application is to improve the usability of the steering wheel.

[0009] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0010] The steering wheel according to one aspect of the present application is a steering wheel which includes a grip body formed so as to be gripped by a driver, and the grip body includes: a core rod; at least one support body which is arranged on the core rod and covers at least a part of the core rod, and at least a heater electrode layer and a detection electrode layer, or a unit electrode layer in which these layers are integrated into one layer, are provided on another face of the support body which is opposite to one face of the support body which is on the side of the core rod, and a resin molding layer which covers each layer on the support body together with the support body is provided on the grip body.

[0011] According to this aspect, since the heater electrode layer and the detection electrode layer (or the unit electrode layer in which these layers are integrated) are provided on the support body which covers the core rod, it is possible to improve the efficiency of heating the grip body and the accuracy of detecting the grip of the grip body. In addition, it is possible to protect each layer on the support body including the detection electrode layer with the resin molding layer.

[0012] Another aspect of the present application relates to a steering wheel including a grip body formed to be gripped by a driver, the grip body including a core rod, a support body disposed on the core rod to cover at least a portion of the core rod, one or more electrode layers provided on the support body, and a resin molding layer provided on the grip body, having a flexibility equal to or less than that of the support body, and covering the one or more electrode layers together with the support body.

[0013] According to this aspect, as with the above, the one or more electrode layers on the support body can be protected by the resin molding layer. In addition, since the support body is equal to or less than the resin molding layer in flexibility with respect to the outside thereof, the support body can deform following the contraction deformation of the resin molding layer, for example, when the driver grips the grip body. Thus, in the steering wheel, the support body does not cause a sense of foreign matter, and the driver can feel a sense of holding comfort.

[0014] Effects of the Invention

[0015] According to the present application, the usability of the steering wheel can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is a view showing the entire steering wheel according to the present embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of II-II in Figure 1

[0018] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of III-III in Figure 2

[0019] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the resin support body and the electrode structure of the steering wheel according to the present embodiment together with the resin molding layer.

[0020] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the resin support body and the electrode structure of the steering wheel according to the present embodiment together with the resin molding layer.

[0021] Figure 6 is a view showing the entire steering wheel according to the modified example of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] A steering wheel 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0023] ​​The steering wheel 1 is positioned on the driver's side of a vehicle such as a car and has multiple functions. For example, the steering wheel 1 functions as a steering device for the vehicle. Specifically, the steering wheel 1 is typically mounted at an angle on the upper end of the steering shaft of the vehicle body. Furthermore, the steering force from the driver is transmitted from the steering wheel 1 to the steering shaft, and then to the wheels via steering gears, thereby changing the direction of the wheels.

[0024] For ease of explanation, the three axes XYZ are defined as follows. The axial direction of the steering axis is designated as the "Z-axis direction" or the first direction. The direction connecting the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions of an analog 12-hour clock on a plane orthogonal to the Z-axis direction is designated as the "X-axis direction." The direction connecting the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions of this clock is designated as the "Y-axis direction." The X-axis direction can be a direction equivalent to the width of the steering wheel 1 or the vehicle. Furthermore, the plane formed by the X-axis and Y-axis is called the "XY plane."

[0025] <1. Structure of Steering Wheel 1>

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the steering wheel 1 has a grip body 2 formed so that the driver can hold it. The grip body 2 has a core 3; a support body 4; an electrode structure 5; and a resin molding layer 6.

[0027] The core rod 3 forms the frame of the steering wheel 1. The core rod 3 has: a boss portion 3c, which is the center of the core rod 3; an outer peripheral portion 3a; and spoke portions 3b, which connect the boss portion 3c and the outer peripheral portion 3a. The boss portion 3c is connected to the steering shaft. There are three spoke portions 3b, which extend from the base portion 3c in three directions and are connected to the outer peripheral portion 3a. In addition, the outer peripheral portion 3a is not limited to a circular shape, but can also be an irregular shape. For example, the outer peripheral portion 3a can also be a D-shape or a U-shape with a horizontal lower side.

[0028] The support body 4 is disposed on the mandrel 3, covering at least a portion of the mandrel 3. For example, the support body 4 is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral portion 3a, covering a portion of the outer peripheral portion 3a of the mandrel 3. In one embodiment, the support body 4 comprises resin. That is, in one embodiment, the support body 4 may be a resin support body. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the support body 4 will be described as a resin support body. The support body resin, which is the raw material of the support body 4, typically has the same or greater flexibility as the molding resin, which is the raw material of the resin molding layer 6 described later. That is, the support body resin may also be more easily elastically deformed than the molding resin. Alternatively, it can be said that the elastic modulus of the support body resin is smaller than that of the molding resin. The support body resin is, for example, a soft polyurethane resin and a semi-rigid polyurethane resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0029] In other embodiments, the support body 4 can cover the outer peripheral portion 3a entirely or discontinuously in the circumferential direction. The number, size, shape, and the like of the support body 4 are not limited. For example, the support body 4 can be composed of one member or multiple members.

[0030] The electrode structure 5 is provided on the support body 4. The electrode structure 5 includes one or more electrode layers. The one or more electrode layers can include, for example, a heater electrode layer 5a, a ground electrode layer 5c, and a detection electrode layer 5e. Here, the one or more electrode layers in the electrode structure 5 include at least the heater electrode layer 5a, the ground electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e in this order in a direction away from the core rod 3 (see Figure 4 and will be described later). That is, the heater electrode layer 5a, the ground electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e are provided on the support body 4 in this order in the direction away from the core rod 3. In addition, in the present disclosure, the state of "the A layer and the B layer being stacked" can be a state in which the A layer and the B layer overlap with one or more other layers interposed therebetween, or can be a state in which the A layer and the B layer are in direct contact with each other without interposition of other layers.

[0031] The resin molding layer 6 is provided to cover the support body 4 and each layer on the support body 4 together. The each layer on the support body 4 is, for example, the one or more electrode layers in the electrode structure 5. The driver typically contacts the resin molding layer 6 at the time of steering of the steering wheel 1. The resin molding layer 6 is formed using a molding resin as a raw material. Since the resin molding layer 6 is a portion to be contacted by the driver, the molding resin can also be a material having high grip (i.e., slightly elastically deformed according to the grip of the driver, and high in the coefficient of friction). The molding resin is, for example, a semi-rigid polyurethane resin and a hard polyurethane resin, but is not limited thereto.

[0032] Next, an example of a cross section of the steering wheel 1 will be described with reference to Figure 2 Figure 2 is a view showing a II-II cross section in the steering wheel 1. Figure 1

[0033] The support body 4 is provided on the surface of the core rod 3, and the inner surface side thereof is in contact with the core rod 3. In the present embodiment, the cross section of the core rod 3 is circular, but is not limited thereto. The cross section of the core rod 3 can be, for example, polygonal, U-shaped, or the like.

[0034] The support body 4 has a main body portion 4a, a rib 4b, and a recessed portion 4c (see Figure 4 ). The rib 4b is provided in the support body 4, and forms the recessed portion 4c between the inner surface side of the main body portion 4a and the core rod 3. The rib 4b and the recessed portion 4c will be described later with reference to Figure 4

[0035] ​​​The electrode structure 5 is provided on the outer surface side of the support 4 (i.e., the face in the direction opposite to the core rod 3 as viewed from the support 4). In the present embodiment, the electrode structure 5 is described as being provided so as to cover the entire outer surface side of the support 4, but the present application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the electrode structure 5 can be provided in a portion of the outer surface side of the support 4 in a band shape along the outer peripheral portion 3a, for example.

[0036] The resin molding layer 6 is provided so as to cover the core rod 3, the support 4, and the electrode structure 5 (hereinafter, the core rod 3, the support 4, and the electrode structure 5 will be collectively referred to as "internal structure"). In addition, a portion of the resin molding layer 6 is also provided in the recessed portion 4c. In the description of the present embodiment, the resin molding layer 6 covers the entirety so that the internal structure is not exposed to the outside, but the present application is not limited thereto. For example, a portion of the core rod 3 can be exposed to the outside without being covered by the resin molding layer 6.

[0037] At least a portion of the core rod 3, the support 4, the electrode structure 5, and the resin molding layer 6 can be adhered (bonded, adhered) with an adhesive or the like, or can be fixed by the resin molding layer 6 covering the entirety. In addition, in the present embodiment, the state in which a certain portion is "in contact" with another portion includes a state in which the portions are adhered with an adhesive (i.e., a state in which an adhesive is interposed therebetween).

[0038] Next, other examples of the cross section of the steering wheel 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3 Figure 3 is a view showing the III-III cross section in Figure 1

[0039] The support 4 is engaged with the core rod 3 at the position of the III-III cross section. Specifically, the support 4 has engaging portions 4d, 4d for engaging with the core rod 3 in addition to the main body portion 4a, the ribs 4b, and the recessed portion 4c. The engaging portions 4d, 4d are formed at least once (in this case, four times: see Figure 1 ) in the length direction of the support 4. The engaging portions 4d, 4d are provided so as to extend in the circumferential direction from both end portions of the main body portion 4a, respectively. The engaging portions 4d, 4d are formed in a circular arc shape, for example, and cover a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the core rod 3 to engage with the portion. The inner surfaces of the engaging portions 4d, 4d overlap the outer peripheral surface of the core rod 3 and are curved in accordance with the curvature of the outer peripheral surface of the core rod 3. The engaging portions 4d, 4d can cover a large portion of the outer periphery of the core rod 3 together with the main body portion 4a. For example, the inner surface side of the cross section of the support 4 at the position of the III-III cross section can cover more than half of the outer periphery of the cross section of the core rod 3 at the position. Thus, the support 4 can be mounted on the core rod 3 without using an adhesive or the like, so that the working hours can be reduced, and reduction in yield due to variation in the amount of adhesive applied can be prevented. ​​

[0040] The support body 4 also has the recess 4c in the position of the III-III cross section as well as in the position of the II-II cross section. Thus, the support body 4 has the recess 4c as a whole in the length direction (i.e., in the direction along the outer peripheral portion 3a when the support body 4 is mounted on the core rod 3).

[0041] Next, the detailed structure of the support body 4 and the electrode structure 5 will be described with reference to Figure 4 Figure 4 is a view that enlarges and shows a portion including the region 10 in Figure 2 , showing a state in which the support body 4, the electrode structure 5, and the resin molding layer 6 are sequentially stacked outward from the core rod 3. In addition, in Figure 4 , the portion including the arc-shaped region 10 is changed to a rectangle to be represented so as to maintain the appearance of the stacking.

[0042] In the support body 4, the rib 4b protrudes from the main body portion 4a toward the direction of the core rod 3, and thereby the recess 4c is formed between the main body portion 4a and the core rod 3. In manufacturing the steering wheel 1, the recess 4c is filled with resin for the resin molding layer 6, and as a result, a portion of the resin molding layer 6 is formed in the recess 4c.

[0043] The electrode structure 5 sequentially has the heater electrode layer 5a, the second insulating layer 5b, the ground electrode layer 5c, the third insulating layer 5d, and the detection electrode layer 5e in the direction away from the core rod 3. That is, in the electrode structure 5, the heater electrode layer 5a, the second insulating layer 5b, the ground electrode layer 5c, the third insulating layer 5d, and the detection electrode layer 5e are provided in layers. The heater electrode layer 5a and the detection electrode layer 5e can be formed by various methods. For example, the heater electrode layer 5a and the detection electrode layer 5e can be composed of a metal foil, a metal plate, a thin film layer by evaporation of a metal, or a sheet-shaped member having a mesh-shaped electrode.

[0044] The heater electrode layer 5a is a layer for heating the grip body 2. The heater electrode layer 5a is typically a metal or resin layer including a heat generating body. The heat generating body can be any one of a metal heat generating body and a non-metal heat generating body. The metal heat generating body is, for example, a heat generating body using iron, chromium, aluminum, nickel, molybdenum, tungsten, or the like. The non-metal heat generating body is, for example, a heat generating body using silicon carbide, molybdenum silicide, lanthanum chromate, carbon, or the like.

[0045] The second insulating layer 5b is a layer for electrically insulating the heater electrode layer 5a and the ground electrode layer 5c.

[0046] ​The ground electrode layer 5c is a layer for suppressing noise generated in the detection electrode layer 5e. The ground electrode layer 5c is typically connected to a circuit ground included in the electrode layer. The ground electrode layer 5c, for example, suppresses noise generated in the detection electrode layer 5e due to the influence of the mandrel 3 and the heater electrode layer 5a. The ground electrode layer 5c can also be referred to as an electrostatic shield, an electromagnetic shield, or a magnetic shield. The raw material of the ground electrode layer 5c is, for example, a metal such as iron and aluminum, but can be any raw material as long as it is a material capable of cutting off noise generated in the detection electrode layer 5e. In addition, in the present embodiment, noise includes unintentional variation (i.e., behavior different from the ideal) generated in the circuit of the electrode layer. Noise includes, for example, parasitic capacitance, parasitic resistance, parasitic inductance, induced current, and induced electromotive force.

[0047] The third insulating layer 5d is a layer for electrically insulating the ground electrode layer 5c and the detection electrode layer 5e.

[0048] The detection electrode layer 5e is a layer for detecting the gripping of the gripping body 2 by the driver. The detection electrode layer 5e can also be, for example, a sheet material of a sensor in which an electrostatic capacitance changes according to the change in pressure acting. The detection electrode layer 5e can detect the degree of force with which the driver is gripping the gripping body 2, or can detect whether or not the driver is gripping the gripping body 2 with 2 values. The detection electrode layer 5e is typically disposed at the outermost side (i.e., a position away from the mandrel 3) in the electrode layer. The detection electrode layer 5e can also be in contact with the resin molding layer 6.

[0049] The heater electrode layer 5a can also act in accordance with the detection result of the detection electrode layer 5e. Specifically, a computer provided in the vehicle can acquire information related to the detection result of the detection electrode layer 5e, and control the action of the heater electrode layer 5a in accordance with the information. For example, the computer provided in the vehicle can heat the gripping body 2 using the heater electrode layer 5a during the period in which the driver is gripping the gripping body 2.

[0050] Figure 5 is a drawing showing another example of the structure of the electrode structure 5. In Figure 5 , the electrode structure 5 is provided with an integrated electrode layer 5f that integrally constitutes the heater electrode layer 5a and the detection electrode layer 5e as one layer. The integrated electrode layer 5f has both the function of the heater electrode layer 5a and the function of the detection electrode layer 5e. In addition, in the electrode structure 5 of Figure 5 , at least the ground electrode layer 5c and a first insulating layer 5g can be disposed in order in the direction away from the mandrel 3 between the integrated electrode layer 5f and the support body 4. The first insulating layer 5g is a layer for electrically insulating the integrated electrode layer 5f and the ground electrode layer 5c.

[0051] <2. Method of manufacturing the steering wheel 1>

[0052] An example of a method of manufacturing the steering wheel 1 will be described. In the manufacturing method, first, as a preparation stage, the core rod 3, the support body 4, and the electrode structure body 5 in the gripping body 2 are manufactured. After the preparation stage, they are mounted to each other to form an inner structure body, and finally, the resin molding layer 6 is formed. Hereinafter, the process after the preparation stage will be described.

[0053] Step 1: First, the support body 4 is mounted to the core rod 3. At this time, the support body 4 is mounted to the core rod 3 by engaging the engagement portions 4d, 4d of the support body 4 with the core rod 3. In other embodiments, the engagement portions 4d, 4d can be omitted, and in this case, an adhesive can be applied to the inner surface side of the support body 4 to adhere the support body 4 and the core rod 3. Regardless of which method is used, a recess 4c is formed between the support body 4 and the core rod 3 by the ribs 4b of the support body 4.

[0054] Step 2: Next, the electrode structure body 5 is mounted to the support body 4 so that the heater electrode layer 5a is in contact with the support body 4 to form an inner structure body. The electrode structure body 5 can be mounted in a groove provided in advance on the support body 4, or an adhesive can be applied to the inner surface side of the electrode structure body 5 and adhered to the support body 4.

[0055] Step 3: Next, the inner structure body obtained in Step 2 is arranged inside a mold corresponding to the shape of the gripping body 2. The mold has an injection port for the mold resin.

[0056] Step 4: The mold resin in a flowing state is injected from the injection port. As a result, the entire inner structure body is covered with the molding resin. At this time, the recess 4c formed in Step 1 is also filled with the molding resin.

[0057] Step 5: The mold resin is allowed to cure. As a result, the resin molding layer 6 is formed, and the manufacturing of the steering wheel 1 is completed.

[0058] <3. Effects of the steering wheel 1>

[0059] According to the present embodiment described above, the steering wheel 1 has the gripping body 2 formed so that a driver can grip it, and the gripping body 2 has the core rod 3, at least one support body 4 arranged on the core rod 3 to cover at least a portion of the core rod 3, at least one of the heater electrode layer 5a, the detection electrode layer 5e, or the integral electrode layer 5f in which these layers are integrated into one layer provided on the other face of the support body 4 on the side opposite to the one face of the support body 4 on the core rod 3 side, and the resin molding layer 6 provided on the gripping body 2 to cover each layer on the support body 4 together with the support body 4.

[0060] With this structure, the usability of the steering wheel 1 is improved. Specifically, since the detection electrode layer 5e is provided on the support body 4, the gripping of the gripping body 2 by the driver can be correctly detected.

[0061] In addition, the heater electrode layer 5a and the detection electrode layer 5e are sequentially stacked on the support body 4 in a direction away from the core rod 3.

[0062] According to this structure, since the detection electrode layer 5e is disposed on the outer side of the electrode structure 5 (i.e., the side close to the surface of the holding body 2), the holding of the driver to the holding body 2 can be more accurately detected.

[0063] In addition, between the integrated electrode layer 5f and the support body 4, at least the ground electrode layer 5c and the first insulating layer 5g are sequentially stacked in a direction away from the core rod 3.

[0064] According to this structure, the integrated electrode layer 5f and the ground electrode layer 5c can operate without interfering with each other. In addition, the integrated electrode layer 5f and the core rod 3, which can generate noise, are disposed on opposite sides with the ground electrode layer 5c therebetween, so that noise that can be generated in the integrated electrode layer 5f can be suppressed.

[0065] In addition, on the support body 4, at least the heater electrode layer 5a, the ground electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e are sequentially stacked in a direction away from the core rod 3.

[0066] With this structure, the detection electrode layer 5e and the core rod 3, which can generate noise, and the heater electrode layer 5a are disposed on opposite sides with the ground electrode layer 5c therebetween, so that noise that can be generated in the detection electrode layer 5e can be suppressed.

[0067] In addition, the second insulating layer 5b is provided between the heater electrode layer 5a and the ground electrode layer 5c, and the third insulating layer 5d is provided between the ground electrode layer 5c and the detection electrode layer 5e.

[0068] With this structure, the heater electrode layer 5a, the ground electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e can operate without interfering with each other. That is, the detection accuracy of the detection electrode layer 5e can be improved.

[0069] In addition, the support body 4 has a recess 4c with respect to the core rod 3, and a portion of the resin molded layer 6 is formed in the recess 4c.

[0070] With this structure, it is possible to suppress a problem of a decrease in detection accuracy of the detection electrode layer 5e due to a manufacturing error. Generally, in a process of covering the internal structure with a molding resin (see Step 4 described above), the molding resin is injected into a mold under high pressure. At this time, if it is assumed that the support body 4 does not have the recessed portion 4c, the molding resin can possibly enter between the support body 4 and the mandrel 3 by chance. Once this happens, the distance between the mandrel 3 and the detection electrode layer 5e can become inconsistent at each position. This can cause the parasitic capacitance generated between the mandrel 3 and the detection electrode layer 5e to differ depending on the position, and eventually result in a decrease in detection accuracy of the detection electrode layer 5e. In contrast, in the embodiment described above, since the support body 4 has the recessed portion 4c, it is possible to prevent the molding resin from "by chance" entering between the support body 4 and the mandrel 3, and thus it is possible to suppress a degradation in gripping detection accuracy.

[0071] In addition, the detection electrode layer 5e is in contact with the resin molding layer 6.

[0072] With this structure, it is possible to suppress a decrease in gripping detection accuracy of the detection electrode layer 5e. The resin molding layer 6 is typically provided as a surface layer of the steering wheel 1. The detection electrode layer 5e is provided as far as possible on the outside, and thus is less likely to be affected by noise that can be generated from the mandrel 3. Therefore, by providing the detection electrode layer 5e in contact with the resin molding layer 6, it is possible to reduce the influence of noise and ensure gripping detection accuracy.

[0073] In addition, the detection electrode layer 5e is a layer for detecting gripping of the gripping body 2 by the driver, and the heater electrode layer 5a is a layer for heating the gripping body 2 in accordance with the detection result of the detection electrode layer 5e.

[0074] With this structure, the heater electrode layer 5a can efficiently heat the gripping body 2. For example, the heater electrode layer 5a heats the gripping body 2 during gripping of the gripping body 2 by the driver, and stops heating during non-gripping, and it is possible to reduce power consumption.

[0075] In addition, the resin molding layer 6 can also be formed of a molding resin (first resin), and the support body 4 can be formed of a support body resin (second resin) having flexibility that is the same as or higher than that of the molding resin.

[0076] With this structure, it is possible to improve the feeling of the driver gripping the gripping body 2. Specifically, if it is assumed that the flexibility of the support body resin is lower than that of the molding resin (i.e., the support body resin is harder than the molding resin), the driver gripping the gripping body 2 can feel hardness inside the gripping body 2. In contrast, if the above structure is employed, since the support body resin deforms in accordance with the deformation of the molding resin, it is possible to make the driver feel comfortable gripping. In addition, since the support body 4 follows the deformation of the resin molding layer 6, it is also possible to improve the appearance of the steering wheel 1.

[0077] <4. Variations of the steering wheel 1>

[0078] The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present application and are not intended to limit the interpretation of the present application. The elements and their arrangement, materials, conditions, shapes, and dimensions, etc. possessed by the embodiments are not limited to the examples and can be appropriately changed.

[0079] For example, in the above-described embodiments, it is described that the holding body 2 has a single support body 4, but it is not limited thereto. Specifically, the support body 4 can also have a plurality of support bodies. In this case, the resin molding layer 6 can also be provided so as to cover the plurality of support bodies 4 together by the single resin molding layer 6 throughout the entire circumference of the core rod 3. That is, the steering wheel 1 can also cover the support bodies 4 divided in the circumferential direction by the resin molding layer 6 not divided in the same direction, for example.

[0080] In some embodiments, the holding body 2 can have a first support body and a second support body as the support body 4, and the heater electrode layer 5a, the ground electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e can be sequentially stacked in the direction away from the core rod 3 on each of the first support body and the second support body. Further, the heater electrode layer 5a of the first support body can be a layer that heats the portion of the holding body 2 in which the first support body is provided, and the heater electrode layer 5a of the second support body can also be a layer that heats the portion of the holding body 2 in which the second support body is provided. That is, the steering wheel 1 can also be designed to heat only the portion corresponding to the portion of the holding body 2 held by the driver.

[0081] Reference Signs List Figure 6 A description will be given of the steering wheel 1 according to the variations. Figure 6 The steering wheel 1 according to the variations includes the support body 4 (corresponding to the first support body) located in the region 20 and the support body 4 (corresponding to the second support body) located in the region 30. The electrode structure 5 described above is provided on each of these support bodies 4.

[0082] In the case where the driver holds the support body 4 located in the region 20, the heater electrode layer 5a of this support body 4 heats the portion of the holding body 2 included in the region 20. Similarly, in the case where the driver holds the support body 4 located in the region 30, the heater electrode layer 5a of this support body 4 heats the portion of the holding body 2 included in the region 30.

[0083] According to this structure, the heater electrode layer 5a can efficiently heat the holding body 2. For example, the heater electrode layer 5a heats the holding body 2 during the period in which the driver holds the portion of the holding body 2 included in the region 20, and does not heat the portion other than this, whereby the power consumption can be reduced.

[0084] In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the support 4 and the electrode structure 5 are provided on a part of the outer peripheral portion 3a is described, but the support 4 and the electrode structure 5 can be provided on the entire circumference of the outer peripheral portion 3a. In this case, the heater electrode layer 5a can heat the entire holding body 2 regardless of where the driver holds the holding body 2 (i.e., regardless of which position of the detection electrode layer 5e detects the holding).

[0085] In the above-described embodiment, the structure in which the electrode structure 5 is provided with at least the heater electrode layer 5a, the ground electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e is described, but one or more electrode layers of the electrode structure 5 can be provided with, for example, a cooling electrode layer using a Peltier element in addition to these.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, the outermost layer of the holding body 2 is the resin molding layer 6, but this is not limiting. For example, a leather layer can be further provided outside the resin molding layer 6.

[0087] In addition, the support 4 is typically integrally formed from a surface on which the layers of the support 4 are provided toward the core rod 3. That is, the support 4 typically does not have an electrode or the like inside thereof.

[0088] In one embodiment, the support 4 is composed of a material having insulating properties. In one embodiment, the support 4 is composed of wood, rubber, or the like. In addition, in other embodiments, the support 4 can be, for example, a metal covered with an insulating material. However, if load resistance and material cost are prioritized, the support 4 is preferably made of resin.

[0089] <5. Additional Considerations Regarding Various Embodiments>

[0090] [Postscript 1]

[0091] The steering wheel 1 is a steering wheel 1 provided with a holding body 2 formed so that a driver can hold the holding body 2, the holding body 2 being provided with: a core rod 3; at least one support 4 disposed on the core rod 3, covering at least a part of the core rod 3, at least a heater electrode layer 5a and a detection electrode layer 5e being provided on the other surface of the support 4 opposite to the one surface of the support 4 on the side of the core rod 3, or a unit electrode layer 5f composed of one layer integrally composed of these layers; and a resin molding layer 6 provided on the holding body 2, covering the layers on the support 4 together with the support 4.

[0092] [Postscript 2]

[0093] In the steering wheel 1 described in Postscript 1, the heater electrode layer 5a and the detection electrode layer 5e can be sequentially stacked on the support 4 in a direction away from the core rod 3.

[0094] [Postscript 3]

[0095] In the steering wheel 1 according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the contact electrode layer 5c and the first insulating layer 5g can be sequentially stacked in the direction away from the core rod 3 between the integrated electrode layer 5f and the support body 4.

[0096] 〔Embodiment 4〕

[0097] In the steering wheel 1 according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the heater electrode layer 5a, the contact electrode layer 5c, and the detection electrode layer 5e can be sequentially stacked in the direction away from the core rod 3 on the support body 4.

[0098] 〔Embodiment 5〕

[0099] In the steering wheel 1 according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1, the second insulating layer 5b can be provided between the heater electrode layer 5a and the contact electrode layer 5c.

[0100] 〔Embodiment 6〕

[0101] In the steering wheel 1 according to the above-mentioned embodiment 1 or 2, the third insulating layer 5d can be provided between the contact electrode layer 5c and the detection electrode layer 5e.

[0102] 〔Embodiment 7〕

[0103] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 6, a plurality of support bodies 4 can be provided, and the resin molded layer 6 can be provided so as to cover the plurality of support bodies 4 with a single resin molded layer 6.

[0104] 〔Embodiment 8〕

[0105] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 7, the grip body 2 can be provided as the support body 4, and a first support body and a second support body can be provided. The heater electrode layer 5a of the first support body can be a layer for heating a portion of the grip body 2 in which the first support body is provided, and the heater electrode layer 5a of the second support body can be a layer for heating a portion of the grip body 2 in which the second support body is provided.

[0106] 〔Embodiment 9〕

[0107] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 8, the detection electrode layer 5e can be a layer for detecting gripping of the grip body 2 by the driver, and the heater electrode layer 5a can be a layer for heating the grip body 2 based on a detection result of the detection electrode layer 5e.

[0108] [Embodiment 10]

[0109] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned 1 to 9, the core rod 3 can have an outer peripheral portion 3a, and the support body 4 can be arranged so as to cover a part of the outer peripheral portion 3a.

[0110] [Para 11]

[0111] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned 1 to 10, the support body 4 can have a recessed portion 4c with respect to the core rod 3, and a part of the resin molded layer 6 can be formed in the recessed portion 4c.

[0112] [Para 12]

[0113] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned 1 to 11, the detection electrode layer 5e can be in contact with the resin molded layer 6.

[0114] [Para 13]

[0115] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned 1 to 12, the resin molded layer 6 can be formed of a first resin, and the support body 4 can be formed of a second resin having a flexibility equal to or greater than that of the first resin.

[0116] [Para 14]

[0117] In the steering wheel 1 according to any one of the above-mentioned 1 to 13, the resin molded layer 6 can further cover the core rod 3.

[0118] [Para 15]

[0119] A steering wheel 1 includes a holding body 2 formed so as to be held by a driver, the holding body 2 including a core rod 3, at least one support body 4 arranged on the core rod 3 so as to cover at least a part of the core rod 3, one or more electrode layers provided on the support body 4, and a resin molded layer 6 provided on the holding body 2, having a flexibility equal to or less than that of the support body 4, and covering the one or more electrode layers together with the support body 4.

[0120] Explanation of Symbols

[0121] 1…steering wheel 2…holding body

[0122] 3…core rod 3a…outer peripheral portion

[0123] 4…support body a…main body portion

[0124] 4b…rib 4c…recessed portion

[0125] 4d…engagement portion 5…electrode structure

[0126] 5a…heater electrode layer 5b…second insulating layer

[0127] 5c…ground electrode layer 5d…third insulating layer

[0128] 5e…a detection electrode layer 5f…an integral electrode layer

[0129] 5g…a first insulating layer 6…a resin molding layer

Claims

1. A steering wheel, comprising a grip body formed so as to be capable of being gripped by a driver, the grip body comprising: a core rod; at least one support body disposed on the core rod so as to cover at least a portion of the core rod, on the other face of the support body opposite the one face on the side of the core rod, at least a heater electrode layer and a detection electrode layer are provided, or a unit electrode layer in which these layers are integrally configured as one layer is provided, a resin molding layer is provided on the grip body, which covers each layer on the support body together with the support body.

2. The steering wheel according to claim 1, wherein the heater electrode layer and the detection electrode layer are sequentially stacked on the support body in a direction away from the core rod.

3. The steering wheel according to claim 1, wherein between the unit electrode layer and the support body, in a direction away from the core rod, at least a ground electrode layer and a first insulating layer are sequentially stacked.

4. The steering wheel according to claim 1, wherein on the support body, in a direction away from the core rod, at least the heater electrode layer, a ground electrode layer, and the detection electrode layer are sequentially stacked.

5. The steering wheel according to claim 4, wherein a second insulating layer is provided between the heater electrode layer and the ground electrode layer.

6. The steering wheel according to claim 4, wherein a third insulating layer is provided between the ground electrode layer and the detection electrode layer.

7. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one support body is a plurality of support bodies, the resin molding layer is provided so as to cover the plurality of support bodies uniformly by a single unit, and is provided so as to cover the entire circumference of the core rod.

8. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the grip body, as the support body, comprises a first support body and a second support body, on the first support body and the second support body, the heater electrode layer, the ground electrode layer, and the detection electrode layer are sequentially stacked in a direction away from the core rod, the heater electrode layer of the first support body is a layer for heating a portion of the grip body in which the first support body is provided, the heater electrode layer of the second support body is a layer for heating a portion of the grip body in which the second support body is provided.

9. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the detection electrode layer is a layer for detecting that the driver is gripping the grip body, the heater electrode layer is a layer for heating the grip body in accordance with a detection result of the detection electrode layer.

10. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the core rod comprises an outer peripheral portion, the support body is disposed so as to cover a portion of the outer peripheral portion.

11. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the support body has a recess portion with respect to the core rod, a portion of the resin molding layer is formed in the recess portion.

12. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the detection electrode layer is in contact with the resin molding layer.

13. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The resin molded layer is formed of the first resin, The support body is formed of a second resin having the same or greater softness than the first resin.

14. The steering wheel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein The resin molded layer further covers the core rod.

15. A steering wheel, comprising a steering wheel body formed into a body capable of being held by a driver, The steering wheel body comprises: a core rod; at least one support body disposed on the core rod and covering at least a portion of the core rod, one or more electrode layers are disposed on the support body, a resin molded layer is disposed on the steering wheel body, has the same or less softness than the support body, and covers the one or more electrode layers together with the support body.

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