Safety module fixing device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for fastening a safety module (2) to a vehicle steering wheel support structure (10), said safety module (2) comprising at least one cover plate (20), said vehicle steering wheel support structure (10) comprising a user-visible decorative part (13), said fastening device comprising:-a snap-on holding part (ER) arranged to hold the safety module (2) during operation of the safety module (2), characterized in that the snap-on holding part (ER) is arranged to hold the safety module (2) when the safety module (2) is in operation, and in that the snap-on holding part (ER) is arranged to hold the safety module (2) when the safety module (2) is in operation; the fixing device comprises a clamping type positioning part (EP) which is arranged to apply pressure to press the cover plate (20) to the decorating part (13).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a device for securing a safety module (particularly an airbag module) to a vehicle steering wheel (particularly a vehicle steering wheel support structure). Background Technology

[0002] In the prior art, there are known fixing devices for securing safety modules to a vehicle steering wheel (particularly to the support structure of the vehicle steering wheel; a complete vehicle steering wheel includes the vehicle steering wheel support structure and the safety module). These devices can secure the safety module, and in particular, can adjust / position the position of the safety module's outer cover relative to the steering wheel surface, as shown in documents US3819205 or WO2021 / 244837. However, these systems may encounter difficulties when installing the safety module onto the vehicle steering wheel. In fact, in US3819205, the fit between the safety module cover and the steering wheel body must be very precise to ensure an aesthetically pleasing assembly; furthermore, the module is fixed to the bottom of the steering wheel with screws, which is time-consuming. In WO2021 / 244837, the positioning device for the safety module cover and the steering wheel body is more complex because it must allow the safety module to move vertically or axially to activate the alarm located below the safety module. The positioning device consists of five sub-components, which must be pre-assembled before the positioning device can be integrated into the steering wheel body. This requires a lot of work to install the safety module onto the steering wheel body. In addition, according to the document, a working gap needs to be left between the edge of the safety module cover and the steering wheel body, which may affect the aesthetic standards expected by vehicle users. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the aforementioned shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention specifically provides a quick installation device that can be installed inside the steering wheel body and enhance the aesthetic appearance of the entire vehicle steering wheel.

[0004] Therefore, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a device for fixing a safety module to a vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0005] The safety module includes at least one cover plate configured to open and allow the airbag to pass through; the vehicle steering wheel support structure includes user-visible trim.

[0006] The fixing device includes:

[0007] - A snap-fit ​​retainer is configured to hold the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure when the safety module is in operation.

[0008] The fixing device is characterized by including a snap-fit ​​positioning part, configured to apply pressure to the safety module during the life cycle of the vehicle steering wheel support structure and when the safety module is not yet engaged, causing the cover to press against the trim piece. The fixing device includes a snap-fit ​​retaining part, configured to secure the safety module to the steering wheel, but also includes a separate snap-fit ​​positioning part, thus automatically pressing the safety module against the trim piece. This design provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance with no noticeable gaps, thereby improving perceived quality. Note that the fixing device includes both a snap-fit ​​retaining part and a snap-fit ​​positioning part. Simply pushing the safety module towards the steering wheel engages its snap-fit ​​mechanism on the steering wheel. That is, the fixing device includes:

[0009] - The first snap-fit ​​mechanism is configured to allow the safety module to be installed in a specific orientation and to secure it to the vehicle steering wheel support structure when the safety module is in operation (i.e., the function of the snap-fit ​​retainer is to prevent the safety module from being disassembled or loosened at least during the operation of the safety module: it must be ensured that the safety module does not separate from the entire steering wheel).

[0010] - The second snap-fit ​​mechanism is configured to allow the safety module to be installed in a specific direction and to press the safety module onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure to achieve a gapless appearance (i.e., the function of the snap-fit ​​positioning part is to achieve gapless positioning and / or prevent the removal of the safety module, at least when the vehicle steering wheel is in normal use to drive the vehicle).

[0011] The fixing device may also have one or more of the following features, individually or in combination.

[0012] In one embodiment, the clamping force is designed to ensure that the cover and trim remain in contact during the lifecycle phase of the vehicle steering wheel support structure prior to the activation of the safety module. In one embodiment, the clamping force is designed to ensure (during the lifecycle phase of the vehicle steering wheel support structure, i.e., before the safety module activates) between the cover and trim in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the vehicle steering wheel about the column axis, and / or along the mounting direction of the safety module in the vehicle steering wheel, and / or in a direction opposite to the deployment direction of the safety module. In one embodiment, the clamping force (applied during the use phase of the vehicle steering wheel support structure prior to safety module activation) is less than the holding force of the safety module (applied at the end of the safety module airbag deployment). In one embodiment, the clamping force is designed to ensure that the safety module (and its cover) remains stationary or immobile relative to the trim and / or support structure throughout the entire lifecycle of the steering hub support structure prior to safety module activation.

[0013] In one embodiment, the user-visible trim includes at least one exterior surface that is directly visible to a vehicle user while driving. For example, the user-visible trim includes at least one exterior surface that is directly visible to the vehicle driver. That is, the user-visible trim constitutes an appearance component or decorative component. In one embodiment, the user-visible trim is configured to conceal the internal mechanisms of the vehicle steering wheel to improve the appearance of the vehicle steering wheel and / or enhance the perceived quality of the user (typically a driver or vehicle occupant).

[0014] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​retainer includes at least one flexible retaining claw configured to allow the safety module to be mounted on the vehicle steering wheel support structure via a resilient engagement. This simple mounting structure can be designed to automatically and easily activate when the safety module is mounted to the vehicle steering wheel support structure, by pushing the safety module to its final position to cause deformation of the flexible retaining claw. Installation of the safety module is very simple; the flexible retaining claw is resiliently deformed to snap the safety module onto the steering wheel. Furthermore, the safety module can be removed without damaging the snap-fit ​​retainer, via a resiliently deformable flexible bracket. For this purpose, for example, holes can be provided on the side of the steering wheel or vehicle steering wheel support structure to allow tools to be inserted into the flexible claw, thereby applying force to remove the flexible claw from the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0015] In one embodiment:

[0016] - The at least one flexible retaining claw includes a retaining shape member, which is preferably formed by a concave shape or a hole, and the at least one flexible retaining claw is disposed on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (i.e., the rest of the vehicle steering wheel).

[0017] Another component in the safety module and vehicle steering wheel support structure includes a retaining member, preferably formed in a convex shape (such as a hook), configured to mate with the retaining member when the safety module is mounted onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure. This simple installation method prevents accidental removal of the safety module.

[0018] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​retainer is overmolded, pressed, or forcefully mounted onto the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure to avoid the risk of the snap-fit ​​retainer being torn off during the operation of the safety module. That is, the snap-fit ​​retainer is permanently mounted onto the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (preferably in a way that prevents it from being removed without causing damage).

[0019] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​retainer includes flexible retaining tabs, and preferably two identical flexible retaining tabs. These flexible tabs exhibit significant elastic bending deformation. The flexible retaining claws are elongated, with a length greater than twice, preferably three or four times, their width.

[0020] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​positioning part includes at least one flexible positioning claw configured to allow the safety module to be mounted on the vehicle steering wheel support structure via a resilient engagement. This simple mounting structure can be designed to automatically and easily activate when the safety module is mounted to the vehicle steering wheel support structure, by causing deformation of the flexible positioning claw by pushing the safety module to its final position.

[0021] In one embodiment:

[0022] - The at least one flexible positioning claw includes a positioning shape, which is preferably formed by a plane or an edge, and the at least one flexible positioning claw is disposed on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0023] - Another component in the safety module and vehicle steering wheel support structure includes a positioning counterweight, preferably formed by a positioning plane inclined relative to the mounting direction of the safety module on the steering wheel. The positioning counterweight is configured to engage with the positioning member when the safety module is mounted onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure. Flexible positioning claws and the positioning counterweight can transmit force to press the safety module together. The inclination of the positioning plane relative to the mounting direction of the safety module on the trim piece can be designed to facilitate the removal of the safety module. The inclination angle of the positioning plane relative to the mounting direction of the safety module is between 45° and 80°, preferably between 60° and 75°, to ensure the module can be removed while preventing accidental detachment of the module from the vehicle steering wheel body and / or the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0024] In one embodiment:

[0025] - The positioning shape of the flexible positioning claw includes a concave shape, a hole, or a recess, while the positioning reverse shape includes a pointer, an insert portion, or a protrusion configured to engage with the positioning shape; and / or

[0026] - The positioning shape of the flexible positioning claw includes one or more teeth (or tooth grooves), and the positioning reverse shape includes one or more teeth (or tooth grooves) and is configured to engage with the positioning shape.

[0027] In one embodiment, the reverse-shaped component is positioned:

[0028] - Installed below the top surface of the cover plate (e.g., between the top surface and the steering column), and / or

[0029] - Located below the contact surface between the cover plate and the trim (e.g., between the contact surface and the steering column).

[0030] In one embodiment, the fixing device includes two locating tabs formed by inclined and opposing locating planes. Therefore, the force transmitted to the safety module by the two flexible locating tabs is symmetrical and / or inclined, in opposite directions, at an angle of 10° to 45°, preferably 15° to 30°, to the mounting direction of the safety module. These small angles ensure that the force transmission direction is substantially parallel to the mounting axis of the safety module: the locating tabs ensure good fixation and / or compression of the safety module along its mounting axis.

[0031] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​positioning part is installed on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure by overmolding, pressing, or force assembly to avoid the risk of the snap-fit ​​positioning part falling off during the assembly or disassembly of the safety module.

[0032] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​positioning part includes flexible positioning pieces, and preferably includes two identical flexible positioning pieces. Therefore, the force transmitted to the safety module through the two flexible positioning pieces via the snap-fit ​​positioning part ensures a balanced distribution of force, and the system has a lower manufacturing cost.

[0033] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​positioning part is configured to maintain the cover of the safety module in a fixed position relative to the trim of the vehicle steering wheel support structure during the lifespan of the vehicle steering wheel support structure and when the safety module is not in operation. That is, the safety module will not be moved by the user during the lifespan of the vehicle steering wheel. Specifically, the safety module is immovable relative to the vehicle steering wheel; for example, it cannot be configured to control an alarm.

[0034] In one embodiment, during the installation of the safety module onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure, the snap-fit ​​retainer is designed to engage or activate before the snap-fit ​​positioning part, thereby ensuring that the assembly of the safety module on the steering wheel is at a static position and guaranteeing the stability of the safety module.

[0035] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​positioning part is configured to lock at least one, preferably only one, degree of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel support structure and the safety module, particularly locking at least one, preferably only one, degree of translational freedom. The snap-fit ​​positioning part includes a positioning counter-shaped member and a positioning piece inclined to the mounting direction of the safety module on the steering wheel, but the flexible positioning piece elastically deforms, allowing it to deform significantly, particularly along a direction perpendicular to the mounting axis of the safety module, in which the flexible piece is almost vertical: bending is relatively easy. Therefore, the flexible piece primarily bears the force along the mounting axis of the safety module and allows movement in a direction perpendicular to the disassembly axis of the safety module.

[0036] In one embodiment, the fixing device includes a positioning interface configured to lock at least two degrees of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel support structure and the safety module, specifically, the positioning interface is configured to lock at least two translational degrees of freedom. Preferably, the positioning interface is configured to lock at least two translational degrees of freedom perpendicular to the mounting axis of the safety module.

[0037] In one embodiment:

[0038] - The snap-fit ​​positioning unit is designed to lock the translational degree of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel support structure and the safety module, based on the installation direction of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0039] The positioning interface is designed to lock two translational degrees of freedom along a direction perpendicular to the mounting direction of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure. Therefore, since all translational degrees of freedom are locked, the safety module remains fixed: there is no gap between the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0040] In one embodiment, the positioning interface includes at least one positioning plane disposed on at least one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure, preferably on each. The at least one positioning plane is inclined relative to the mounting direction of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure and is preferably formed by or constituted by ribs and / or grooves. For example, the module may include at least two ribs located on different sides of the module, these ribs being designed to be forcefully mounted on the vehicle steering wheel support structure and to contact the surfaces of trim or other steering wheel components (e.g., in grooves) via external or lateral positioning planes. According to an embodiment, the outer plane of the rib (defining the side of the safety module) ensures that the safety module is centered relative to two directions perpendicular to the mounting direction of the module on the steering wheel. The inclination of the ribs allows for progressive positioning during the installation and / or removal of the safety module.

[0041] In one embodiment, the fixing device includes a pre-positioning interface, the interface having:

[0042] - At least one pre-positioning pointer is set on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0043] - At least one pre-positioning groove, provided on another in the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure, is configured to accommodate a pre-positioning pointer.

[0044] Furthermore, the pre-positioning interface is configured to engage or activate before the snap-fit ​​retaining part and snap-fit ​​positioning part when the safety module is installed onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure. The presence of the pre-positioning pointer speeds up the installation of the safety module onto the vehicle steering wheel by providing intuitive pre-guidance.

[0045] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​retainer and snap-fit ​​positioning part are formed by a single snap-fit ​​member. Therefore, the snap-fit ​​member simultaneously supports both the snap-fit ​​retainer and the snap-fit ​​positioning part, thereby reducing material costs and simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0046] In one embodiment, the fastener includes:

[0047] - A first flexible end forming one of the snap-fit ​​retaining part and the snap-fit ​​positioning part;

[0048] -A second flexible end forming another of the snap-fit ​​retaining part and the snap-fit ​​positioning part;

[0049] - A base fixed to one of the safety modules or the vehicle steering wheel support structure, the base being positioned between the first flexible end and the second flexible end. The fixing device therefore consists of fewer parts, and its assembly is simplified.

[0050] In one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​positioning part is configured to press the safety module against the trim piece and / or the vehicle steering wheel support structure:

[0051] - The direction and orientation are opposite to the airbag deployment direction and / or

[0052] - The direction and orientation of the safety module are the same as the installation direction and orientation of the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0053] In one embodiment, the trim piece includes a support surface, and a cover plate at least partially covers and contacts at least a portion of the support surface under a pressing force. That is, if the steering wheel has a recess, the trim piece may at least form part of its periphery, and the cover plate at least partially covers and contacts at least a portion of the trim piece's support surface.

[0054] In one embodiment, the support surface:

[0055] - Forming the upper edge of the safety module housing in the steering wheel, and / or

[0056] - Forming the upper periphery of the safety module housing in the steering wheel, and / or

[0057] - Extends 360° around the safety module housing in the steering wheel, and / or

[0058] - It extends continuously around the safety module seat in the steering wheel.

[0059] In one embodiment, the decorative element:

[0060] - Surrounding the safety module cover (and / or at least partially extending beneath the cover), and / or

[0061] - Consists of at least part of an overmolded material, and / or

[0062] - A covering layer that constitutes or forms a covering layer on the supporting structure, steering wheel frame, or frame, and / or

[0063] -Made of flexible materials such as polyurethane foam, and / or

[0064] - The wheel hub covering the vehicle steering wheel support structure (or the vehicle steering wheel), and / or

[0065] - This supports a horn control device independent of the safety module. Therefore, the horn control device is independent, and its operation is unrelated to the safety module.

[0066] In one embodiment, the cover of the safety module at least partially covers the trim to give the vehicle steering wheel a gapless and / or aesthetically pleasing appearance after the safety module is installed.

[0067] In one embodiment, the security module includes at least:

[0068] -A housing including a base and a cover fixed to the base, and / or

[0069] - An airbag, positioned within the wheel and steering wheel housing before the safety module is activated; and / or

[0070] - A gas generator fixed to the bottom wall of the housing.

[0071] In one embodiment, the pressing force is applied directly to the housing. That is, the pressing force is not applied directly to the cover plate through the snap-fit ​​positioning part.

[0072] In one embodiment, the vehicle steering wheel support structure (or vehicle steering wheel) includes a frame and a trim covering at least partially over the frame, wherein:

[0073] - The snap-fit ​​retainer engages directly with the frame during operation of the safety module to provide a locking action (for a robust lock), and / or

[0074] - The trim pieces engage directly with the finish (to provide a precise and gapless press).

[0075] A second aspect of the invention relates to a motor vehicle including at least one fixing device as described in the first aspect of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0076] Other features and advantages of the invention will become clearer from the following detailed description of the invention, illustrated by non-limiting examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0077] [ Figure 1 [A top or front view of a vehicle steering wheel, the steering wheel including a safety module connected to the fixing device of the present invention;]

[0078] [ Figure 2 ]for Figure 1 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle's steering wheel along the AA axis.

[0079] [ Figure 3 [This is an isometric diagram of the security module;]

[0080] [ Figure 4 This is an isometric cross-sectional view containing only the main body of the vehicle's steering wheel;

[0081] [ Figure 5 [A safety module equipped with the alternative fixing device described in this invention;]

[0082] [ Figure 6 [Includes] Figure 5 The vehicle steering wheel with the safety module shown;

[0083] [ Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 Alternative solutions for vehicle steering wheels. Detailed Implementation

[0084] Figure 1 This refers to a vehicle steering wheel 1 equipped with a steering wheel support structure 10, a safety module 2, and a horn control device 3. Specifically, the steering wheel support structure 10 includes a rim 11, a hub 12, spokes connecting the rim 11 and hub 12, and at least one trim piece 13. The horn control device 3 is independent of the safety module 2: during the lifespan of the steering wheel 1 and when the safety module 2 is not activated, the safety module 2 is fixed relative to the steering wheel 1 (typically, the safety module 2 is fixed relative to the steering wheel 1 during vehicle operation). The safety module 2 includes, in particular, an airbag that deploys towards the driver to protect them in the event of a vehicle accident. Specifically, the electronic control unit compares changes in vehicle speed continuously measured by an accelerometer within the vehicle with acceleration values ​​representing an accident. When the detected acceleration reaches a level that may endanger the driver's safety, the control unit activates the safety module 2, specifically deploying the airbag.

[0085] Figure 2 for Figure 1The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the vehicle steering wheel along the AA axis. Note that the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 includes a frame 14 forming a skeleton (e.g., injection molded from a metal alloy such as magnesium), the surface of which is covered with an overmolded material 15 (e.g., a polymer such as polyurethane). To complete the appearance of the steering wheel, a trim piece 13 (e.g., made of polyamide or polycarbonate) is attached to the steering wheel, forming a central recess or receiving cavity with the overmolded material 15 at the hub 12. The trim piece 13 forms the outer edge of the receiving space for the safety module 2.

[0086] Safety module 2 is located within the central recess or receiving space. During the assembly or manufacturing process of the steering wheel, safety module 2 simply needs to slide into and / or press into the receiving space of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10, as described below.

[0087] Figure 3 This is an isometric view of safety module 2, which mainly includes:

[0088] - Cover plate 20,

[0089] -Shell 21,

[0090] - Positioning interface 211, including positioning plane 2110 located on the side of cover plate 20,

[0091] -The positioning inverted member 212 is formed by an inclined plane located on the side wall of the housing 21.

[0092] - Two flexible retaining claws 213, each containing a retaining shape element 213A (hole), extend downward from the bottom of the housing 21 to Figure 3 The location shown;

[0093] - Four pre-positioning pointer components 214, from Figure 3 As can be seen, they extend downwards from the bottom of the outer shell 21.

[0094] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 (i.e., the vehicle steering wheel without the safety module 2) is shown. The housing configured to accommodate the safety module 2 is mainly composed of a bottom frame 14, side covering material 15, and a top trim piece 13 (supporting the horn control device 3).

[0095] As can be seen, flexible positioning claws 112 are provided on both sides of the positioning seat, which are anchored to the decorative piece 13, and include an inclined positioning shape 112A (with a curved end) formed by the edge of the flexible positioning claws 112. The bottom of the receiving device is mainly composed of a frame 14 and includes a pre-positioning cavity 114 formed by a through hole. A retaining anti-reflective member 113 is provided between the two pre-positioning cavities 114. Here, the retaining anti-reflective member 113 is a hook made of a metal alloy (e.g., magnesium alloy) and is formed directly from the frame 14.

[0096] Safety module 2 is fixed to vehicle steering wheel 1 (or vehicle steering wheel support structure 10) via multiple interfaces, each interface being designed to be lockable or have multiple degrees of translational freedom. Specifically, the fixing device for safety module 2 mainly includes:

[0097] - A section of ER snap-fit ​​retainer (such as...) Figure 2 As shown, it includes a flexible retaining claw 213 belonging to the safety module 2. The claw cooperates with a retaining counter-shaped member 113 fixed relative to the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10. When the safety module 2 is working, the counter-shaped member is configured to retain and prevent the safety module 2 from moving along the z-axis.

[0098] - Snap-on positioning part EP (see Figure 2 The system includes a flexible positioning claw 112 supported by a decorative element 13, and a positioning counterweight 212 supported by a safety module 2, the counterweight being configured to press the safety module 2 against the rest of the steering wheel (vehicle steering wheel support structure 10), particularly along the z-axis.

[0099] The snap-fit ​​positioning part EP is designed to ensure that the safety module 2 is positioned or fixed on the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 under normal use conditions (typically when driving the vehicle with the steering wheel). In particular, under these normal conditions, the positioning or fixing of the safety module 2 on the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 must ensure aesthetics, especially with no gaps between the safety module 2 and the rest of the steering wheel (particularly the trim piece 13).

[0100] The snap-fit ​​retainer ER is configured to fix or lock the safety module 2 to the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 under the abnormally strong force generated when the safety module 2 is working on the fixing device (especially when the airbag is fully deployed, the airbag and the various components of the safety module 2 must be fixed to the vehicle steering wheel 1).

[0101] Specifically, such as Figure 2As shown, the snap-fit ​​positioning part EP includes at least one flexible claw 112, which is fixed or encased within or covered by the decorative element 13 and configured to abut against the positioning counter 212 along a positioning plane inclined relative to the z-axis. This inclination allows the safety module 2 to be installed and removed in a detachable and / or reversible manner. The at least one flexible claw 112 in this example is a metal component formed within or overlaid by the decorative element 13, and can also be secured by screws, rivets, or studs. If the decorative element 13 is made of a polymer, it could also be made of plastic, for example, integrally molded with the decorative element. The snap-fit ​​or operation of the snap-fit ​​positioning part EP prevents translation of the safety module along the +z and x-axis directions. However, note that the small inclination of the positioning plane and the flexibility of the positioning flexible claw 112 mean that the coupling cannot completely prevent translational movement along the x-axis or y-axis: slight displacement may still occur along the x-axis or y-axis.

[0102] The snap-fit ​​retainer ER includes at least one flexible retaining claw 213 fixedly connected to or belonging to the safety module 2. This claw engages with at least one retaining reversible element 113, which is composed of a hook-shaped element, for example, integrally formed with the frame 14. Therefore, this snap-fit ​​locking connection is very robust due to its significantly more robust size and material compared to the snap-fit ​​positioning element EP. Note that the snap-fit ​​retainer ER is designed to withstand and / or resist forces two, five, or even ten times greater than those of the snap-fit ​​positioning element EP. Figure 2 As shown, along the z-direction, there is a gap between the retaining member 113 and the flexible fixing claw 213. Along the z-direction, during normal use or operation, the snap-fit ​​retaining part ER does not participate in the positioning of the safety module 2. When the safety module is deployed, the pressing force applied by the snap-fit ​​positioning part EP will be exceeded, at which point the snap-fit ​​retaining part ER will assume the function of fixing the safety module 2 to the vehicle steering wheel 1.

[0103] To ensure perfect positioning of safety module 2 with vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 in the xy plane, positioning interface 211 (see...) Figure 3 ) and positioning plane 2110 (see Figure 3 and Figure 2 The safety module 2 can be centered in the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10.

[0104] In particular, the positioning interface 211 is provided in the form of at least one groove and / or at least one rib, configured to prevent translational movement along the x-axis and y-axis. The positioning interface 211 includes multiple positioning planes 2110 located on the safety module 2 and the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10, as well as multiple sides of the safety module 2 (such as...). Figure 3 (As shown). Specifically, positioning plane 2110 is Figure 3The beveled surfaces of the ribs shown gradually contact the sides of the housing housing accommodating the safety module 2, and in this example, are formed by the inner edge of the trim piece 13. However, contact at other parts and / or other locations could also be considered to ensure locking in the x-y direction.

[0105] Therefore, the cover plate 20 is pressed against the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 by the snap-fit ​​action of the snap-fit ​​positioning part EP in the z-direction, and positioned in the xy-direction by the positioning interface 211. The trim piece 13 is covered by the cover plate 20, forming an aesthetic appearance, while simultaneously locking the safety module 2 in the z-direction. That is to say, the flexible positioning claw 112 eliminates the vertical clearance in the z-axis direction, but a slight lateral clearance in the x / y-axis direction may remain between the cover plate 20 and the trim piece 13. More specifically, a slight lateral clearance in the x / y direction can be designed between the grooves formed on the cover plate 20 and the trim piece 13 (configured to accommodate the cover plate 20). The clearance can be set to approximately 0.5 mm.

[0106] Furthermore, the pre-positioning interface includes at least a pre-positioning pointer 214 and a pre-positioning groove 114 on the safety module 2, allowing the safety module 2 to be inserted into the dedicated slot of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 more quickly. Due to the length of the pre-positioning pointer 214, it is understood that these pointers enter the pre-positioning cavity 114 before the engagement and / or snap-fit ​​positioning part EP and / or snap-fit ​​retaining part ER. This makes the assembly operation more convenient.

[0107] The following is the sequence of operations for assembling the safety module 2 onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 using the fixing device described in this invention:

[0108] - The pre-positioning interface can position the safety module 2 correctly in the mounting bracket of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10. Once the pre-positioning mark 214 is aligned with the pre-positioning groove 114, the safety module 2 can be slid into the mounting slot.

[0109] - The flexible retaining claw 213 engages with the retaining reverse part 113. Under the pushing force applied by the operator, the flexible retaining claw 213 will elastically deform into the inside of the housing, that is, move closer to each other, until the retaining reverse part 113 slides into the retaining part 213A, and the flexible retaining claw 213 is released.

[0110] -With the gap left by the snap-fit, the safety module 2 can continue to be pushed into the housing along the z-axis.

[0111] - The flexible positioning claw 112 is positioned on the positioning reverse member 212 and unfolds to Figure 2 The location shown

[0112] Therefore, the cover plate 20 is in close contact with the trim piece 13 and is centered in the slot through the contact between the positioning plane 2110 provided on the safety module 2 and the side wall of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10.

[0113] Please note that at the end of the movement, the thrust applied by the operator can simultaneously achieve the following effects:

[0114] -Release the flexible positioning claw 112 so that it abuts against the positioning reverse member 212.

[0115] - To bring the positioning plane 2110 into contact with the sidewall of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 housing. It is understood that the elastic deformation of the cover plate 20 and / or the sidewall of the housing allows these operations to be performed simultaneously.

[0116] Figure 5 An alternative embodiment is shown in which, on the safety module 2 side, the snap-fit ​​positioning part and the snap-fit ​​retaining part are constituted by the same snap-fit ​​member 210, which is separate from the housing 21A of the safety module 2. The function of the snap-fit ​​member 210 is the same as... Figures 2 to 4 The flexible positioning claw 112 and the retaining flexible claw 213 are the same. The latching member 210 includes two flexible ends (210A and 210C) and a base 210B located between the positioning end 210A and the retaining end 210C.

[0117] Figure 6 To show Figure 5 The safety module 2 shown is located on the vehicle steering wheel. The positioning end 210A engages with the inclined surface of the steering wheel to apply a pressing force in the z-direction to the safety module 2, while the fixing end 210C engages with a hook on the frame to ensure the safety module is secured when deployed. Figure 5 In this case, the snap-fit ​​member 210, which is separate from the housing 21A, is fixed to the housing 21A by riveting or rolling. However, an overmolding process can also be used, in which the snap-fit ​​member is embedded in the plastic of the housing when the housing 21A is made of polymer.

[0118] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the center, the positioning end 210A engages with the inclined surface of the steering wheel, applying a pressing force in the z-direction to the safety module 2. This function can be achieved by designing a dedicated flexible support leg (excluding the fixed end 210C). Of course, multiple flexible support legs can also be designed.

[0119] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 A variant of the vehicle steering wheel 1, which still includes a vehicle steering wheel support structure, a safety module 2, and a horn control device 3. Specifically, the vehicle steering wheel support structure includes a rim 11, a hub 12, spokes connecting the rim 11 and the hub 12, and at least one trim piece 13.

[0120] In this example, trim piece 13 is made of an overmolded material (e.g., polyurethane overmolded onto the metal frame of the vehicle steering wheel 1), forming a cavity for accommodating the safety module 2 and a cavity for accommodating the horn control device 3; alternatively, an alarm may also be mounted on cover plate 20. At least in localized areas, a flexible sleeve (leather, synthetic material, etc.) can be used to cover the overmolded material, thereby forming another trim piece 13 that can be tightly attached to the overmolded material while still covering the visible overmolded material.

[0121] During the lifecycle of the vehicle steering wheel 1 and when the safety module 2 is not in operation, the safety module 2 is in a fixed state relative to the vehicle steering wheel 1 (normally during vehicle operation, the safety module 2 is in a fixed state relative to the vehicle steering wheel 1), therefore the horn control switch 3 is a switch independent of any movement of the safety module 2. The safety module 2 is installed inside the wheel hub 12, and the outer wall of the housing 21 (indicated by dashed lines) is visible below the cover plate 20.

[0122] In this example Figure 7 In the middle, the cover plate is 20 times. Figure 1 The variant is wider. Specifically, the cover 20 not only covers the hub 12, but also a portion connecting the hub 12 to the rim 11 (the rim may be optional: a steering wheel without a rim could be designed, with grip via the peripheral edge). In any case, Figure 7 The cover plate 20 shown covers most of the area of ​​the vehicle steering wheel 1, except for Figures 2 to 6 In addition to the snap-fit ​​positioning part that applies pressure to the safety module 2 to make the cover plate 20 fit tightly against the decorative part 13 as described in the text, an auxiliary pressing device can also be provided to press the cover plate 20 onto the decorative part 13.

[0123] In particular, the dotted lines indicate two auxiliary pressing anchors 312, which are positioned between the cover plate 20 and the steering wheel support structure. For example, snap-fit ​​posts, snap-fit ​​pins, and / or pine-shaped pins (with flexible ribs) may be provided. These components cooperate with the reverse-shaped parts to press the cover plate 20 onto the trim piece 13, ensuring that there are no gaps between the entire perimeter of the cover plate 20 and the trim piece.

[0124] Of course, these auxiliary devices (here, two auxiliary pressing anchor points 312) that press the cover plate 20 onto the trim piece 13 must be able to engage when the safety module 2 is installed onto the vehicle steering wheel 1. Typically, when the airbag deploys, the cover plate 20 may move along... Figure 7 The dashed line indicates the tear opposite to box 21.

[0125] Industrial applications

[0126] The fixing device described in this invention and its manufacture are easy to apply in industrial applications.

[0127] It is known that various obvious modifications and improvements can be made to the various embodiments of the invention described in this specification, which are suitable for those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the invention. Specifically, note that the position and assembly method of the positioning and fixing snap-fit ​​retaining part may vary.

[0128] Decorative piece 13 (see) Figures 1 to 7 The cover 20 is the component facing the driver when the vehicle is in motion. It is entirely conceivable that the safety module 2 opens via the side of the wheel hub 12 (the side being located between the rim 11 and the frame 14 connector on the steering column, for example, in…). Figure 4 (See above). In this configuration, the cover 20 and trim piece 13 will be visible when the driver looks at the steering wheel from above.

Claims

1. A device for fixing a safety module (2) to a vehicle steering wheel support structure (1), in, The safety module (2) includes at least one cover (20) configured to open when the safety module (2) is in operation and allow the airbag to pass through; The vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) includes a decorative element (13) visible to the user. The fixing device includes: - A snap-fit ​​retaining part is configured to hold the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) when the safety module (2) is working. The fixing device is characterized in that it includes a snap-fit ​​positioning part, which is configured to apply pressure to the safety module (2) during the life cycle of the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) and when the safety module (2) has not yet been put into operation, so that the cover plate (20) is pressed onto the decorative part (13).

2. The fixing device according to claim 1, wherein, The snap-fit ​​retainer includes at least one flexible retaining claw (213) configured to allow the safety module (2) to be mounted on the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) by means of elastic engagement.

3. The fixing device according to claim 2, wherein: - The at least one flexible retaining claw (213) includes a retaining shape element (213A), which is preferably formed by a concave shape or a hole, and the at least one flexible retaining claw (213) is disposed on one of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1). - Another component of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) includes a retaining member (113), which is preferably formed in a convex shape (such as a hook) and is configured to cooperate with the retaining member (213A) when the safety module (2) is mounted onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1).

4. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The snap-fit ​​retainer includes a flexible retaining piece, and preferably includes two identical flexible retaining pieces.

5. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The snap-fit ​​positioning part includes at least one flexible positioning claw (112), configured to allow the safety module (2) to be installed on the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) by elastic engagement.

6. The fixing device according to claim 5, wherein: - The at least one flexible positioning claw (112) includes a positioning shape (112A), which is preferably formed by a plane or an edge, and the at least one flexible positioning claw (112) is disposed on one of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1). - The safety module (2) and another component of the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) include a positioning reverse member (212), which is preferably composed of a positioning plane that is inclined relative to the mounting direction of the safety module (2) on the steering wheel. The positioning reverse member is configured to cooperate with the positioning shape member (112A) when the safety module (2) is mounted on the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1).

7. The fixing device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the fixing device comprises two positioning counters (212) formed by inclined, opposing positioning planes.

8. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the snap-fit ​​positioning part includes a flexible positioning piece, and the snap-fit ​​positioning part preferably includes two identical flexible positioning pieces.

9. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The snap-fit ​​positioning part is configured to keep the cover plate (20) of the safety module (2) in a fixed position relative to the decorative part (13) of the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) during the life cycle of the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) and when the safety module (2) has not yet been put into operation.

10. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, When the safety module (2) is installed onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1), the snap-fit ​​retainer is configured to engage or activate before the snap-fit ​​positioning part.

11. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the fixing device comprising a positioning interface (211) configured to lock two degrees of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) and the safety module (2), particularly, the positioning interface (211) configured to lock two translational degrees of freedom.

12. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the fixing device comprising a pre-positioning interface, the interface having: - At least one pre-positioning pointer (214) is disposed on one of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1). - At least one pre-positioning groove (114) is provided on the other in the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) to accommodate a pre-positioning pointer (214). in, The pre-positioning interface is configured to engage or activate before the snap-fit ​​retainer and snap-fit ​​positioning part when the safety module (2) is installed onto the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1).

13. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The snap-fit ​​retaining part and the snap-fit ​​positioning part are formed by a single snap-fit ​​element (210).

14. The fixing device according to claim 13, wherein, The fastener (210) includes: - A first flexible end (210A) forms one of the snap-fit ​​retaining part and the snap-fit ​​positioning part. - Forming a second flexible end (210C) of another of the snap-fit ​​retaining part and snap-fit ​​positioning part. - A base (210B) fixed to one of the safety module (2) or the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1), the base being disposed between the first flexible end (210A) and the second flexible end (210C).

15. The fixing device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The decorative element (13) includes a support surface (114), and the cover plate (20) at least partially covers and contacts at least a portion of the support surface (114) under the action of the pressing force.

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