steering wheel for a vehicle

Abstract

Steering wheel (1) for a vehicle which has: a damper part (30) which is installed in a connecting hole (12) of a horn plate (10) and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part (40) which is attached to a hub part (24) through the damper part (30) and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate (10); a damper housing (50) which is arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40) and is moved with the damper part (30); and a horn spring (100) designed to support the damper housing (50) and exhibiting elasticity, wherein the horn bolt part (40) has: a head element (42) located on the top of the horn plate (10); a bolt body (44) extending from the head element (42) through the interior of the damper housing (50); and a fastening body (46) extending from the bolt body (44) and attached to the hub part (24), wherein the damper housing (50) has: a first damper housing (60) extending from the top of the horn plate (10) to the bottom of the damper part (30); and a second damper housing (70) located below the damper part (30), attached to the first damper housing (60) and supported by the horn spring (100), the first damper housing (60) has: a housing head (62) located between the damper part (30) and the head element (42); a first housing body (64) extending from the housing head (62) and located between the damper part (30) and the bolt body (44); and a fastening body (66) extending from the first housing body (64), the second damper housing (70) has: a second housing body (72) which is attached to the outside of the mounting body (66) characterized by that a screw thread is formed on the outside of the fastening body (66) such that the second damper housing (70) is attached to the screw thread, and that the first damper housing (64) further comprises a release-prevention projection (67) which projects from the underside of the mounting body (66), faces the second housing body (72), and is inserted into a mounting groove of the second housing body (72) and locked therein.

Description

Background of the invention: Area

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a steering wheel for a vehicle and in particular a steering wheel for a vehicle that can prevent damage to a damper and improve the durability of the damper. Discussion of the background

[0002] Generally, a steering wheel is a circular steering device used to change the direction of travel of a vehicle by turning the vehicle's wheels from side to side. The steering wheel consists of a ring-shaped rim held in the driver's hand, a hub positioned in the center of the rim, and a spoke connecting the hub and the rim.

[0003] An airbag module is integrated into the hub, and a horn plate for supporting the airbag module is positioned in the hub. When the horn plate makes contact with the hub by moving from top to bottom, a horn is activated.

[0004] To improve the vibration quality of the steering wheel, the airbag module can be used as a damping weight. A damper is mounted on the horn plate installed in the steering wheel. Such a damper moves along a horn bolt. JP 2019-006 340 A discloses a steering wheel for a vehicle with the features of the preamble of claim 1. Further steering wheels for vehicles are known from US 2009 / 0 218 739 A1, US 2013 / 0 076 011 A1 and WO 2016 / 166 915 A1.

[0005] In the prior art, when a steel part arranged around the damper comes into contact with the damper, the damper is damaged in such a way that its service life is reduced. Therefore, there is a need for a structure capable of solving this problem. It is thus an object of the present invention to provide a steering wheel for a vehicle in which damage to a damper can be prevented and the service life of the damper can be improved. The invention is defined by the features of claim 1, claim 5, claim 6, claim 9, and claim 11. overview

[0006] Several embodiments relate to a steering wheel for a vehicle that can prevent damage to a damper and improve the durability of the damper.

[0007] Furthermore, various embodiments relate to a steering wheel for a vehicle that prevents deformation in a damper connected to a horn plate and a change in the natural frequency of the damper.

[0008] Furthermore, various embodiments relate to a steering wheel for a vehicle that can reduce surface contact between a horn plate and an adjacent part, thereby improving the durability of the damper and reducing deformation of the damper and changes in the damper's natural frequency.

[0009] According to one embodiment, a steering wheel for a vehicle may comprise: a damper part that is installed in a connecting hole of a horn plate and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part that is attached to a hub part through the damper part and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate; a damper housing that is arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part and moves with the damper part; and a horn spring that is designed to support the damper housing and has elasticity.

[0010] The damper part may comprise: an inner element, which is installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing; an outer element, which is arranged outside the inner element and is installed in a form covering the horn plate; and a connecting element designed to connect the inner element and the outer element.

[0011] The horn bolt part comprises: a head element located on the top of the horn plate; a bolt body extending from the head element through the interior of the damper housing; and a fastening body extending from the bolt body and attached to the hub part.

[0012] The damper housing comprises: a first damper housing extending from the top of the horn plate to the bottom of the damper part; and a second damper housing located beneath the damper part, attached to the first damper housing and supported by the horn spring.

[0013] The first damper housing comprises: a housing head located between the damper part and the head element; a first housing body extending from the housing head and located between the damper part and the bolt body; and a fastening body extending from the first housing body, on the outside of which a screw thread is formed such that the second damper housing is attached to the screw thread.

[0014] The top of the housing head can support the head element, and the bottom of the housing head can rest against the damping element.

[0015] The second damper housing comprises: a second housing body attached to the outside of the mounting body; and may include: a support element extending outwards from the second housing body and supported by the horn spring.

[0016] The first damper housing may further have an anti-loosening projection extending from the underside of the mounting body, facing the second housing body, and inserted into and locked into a mounting groove of the second housing body.

[0017] The anti-loosening projection can have a cross-section in the shape of a right-angled triangle, and several anti-loosening projections can be attached to a bottom surface in the circumferential direction.

[0018] According to one embodiment, a steering wheel for a vehicle may comprise: a damper part installed in a connecting hole of a horn plate and made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part attached to a hub part through the damper part and designed to guide the movement of the horn plate; a first damper housing arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part, extending from the top of the horn plate to the underside of the damper part; a second damper housing arranged below the damper part, attached to the first damper housing, and supported by a horn spring; and the horn spring, designed to support the second damper housing and having elasticity.

[0019] The first damper housing comprises: a housing head arranged between the damper part and a head element of the horn bolt part; a first housing body extending from the housing head and arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part; and a fastening body extending from the first housing body, on the outside of which a screw thread is formed such that the second damper housing is fastened to the screw thread; and an anti-loosening projection extending from the underside of the fastening body, which is inserted into and locked in a mounting groove of the second housing body.

[0020] According to one embodiment, a steering wheel for a vehicle can comprise: a damper part that is installed in a connecting hole of a horn plate and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part that is attached to a hub part through the damper part and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate; a damper housing that is arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part and moves with the damper part; and a contact plate that is installed between the damper housing and the damper part.

[0021] The damper part comprises: an inner element, which is installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing; an outer element, which is arranged outside the inner element and is installed in a form covering the horn plate; and a connecting element designed to connect the inner element and the outer element.

[0022] The damper part also has a mounting projection that extends from the outer element and is inserted into a mounting hole in the horn plate and locked in place.

[0023] The horn bolt part may comprise: a head element located on the top of the horn plate; a bolt body extending from the head element through the interior of the damper housing; and a fastening body extending from the bolt body and attached to the hub part.

[0024] The damper housing may comprise: a first damper housing extending from the top of the horn plate to the bottom of the damper part; and a second damper housing located below the damper part, attached to the first damper housing and supported by a horn spring.

[0025] The first damper housing may comprise: a housing head arranged above the damper part and having an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the damper part; a first housing body extending from the housing head and arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part; and a fastening body extending from the first housing body and having a screw thread on its outer surface such that the second damper housing is attached to the screw thread.

[0026] The second damper housing may include: a second housing body attached to the outside of the mounting body; and a support element extending outwards from the second housing body and supported by the horn spring.

[0027] The contact plate can have: a first contact plate part that is installed between the top of the damper part and the first damper housing; and a second contact plate part that is installed between the bottom of the damper part and the second damper housing.

[0028] The first contact plate part may have: a first body designed to support the head element of the horn bolt part; a first inner projection extending laterally from the first body and designed to support the first damper housing; and a second contact projection extending upwards from the second body and bearing against the damper part.

[0029] According to one embodiment, a steering wheel for a vehicle can have: a damper part that is installed in a connecting hole of a horn plate and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part that is attached to a hub part through the damper part and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate; a damper housing that is arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part and moves with the damper part; a first contact plate part that is installed between the top of the damper part and the damper housing; and a second contact plate part that is installed between the bottom of the damper part and the damper housing.

[0030] The damper part may comprise: a damper body installed in such a way that its inside rests against the damper housing and its outside covers the horn plate; and a mounting projection extending from the damper body and inserted into and locked in a mounting hole of the horn plate, such that the first and second contact plate parts rest against its outside.

[0031] The damper housing may comprise: a first damper housing extending from the top of the first contact plate part to the bottom of the damper part; and a second damper housing located below the second contact plate part, attached to the first damper housing, and supported by the horn spring.

[0032] According to one embodiment, a steering wheel for a vehicle can comprise: a damper part installed in a connecting hole of a horn plate and made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part attached to a hub part through the damper part and designed to guide the movement of the horn plate; a first damper housing arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part, extending from the top of the horn plate to the underside of the damper part; a second damper housing arranged below the damper part, attached to the first damper housing, and supported by a horn spring; a first contact plate part installed between the top of the damper part and the damper housing; and a second contact plate part installed between the underside of the damper part and the damper housing.

[0033] The damper part may comprise: a damper body installed in such a way that its inside rests against the damper housing and its outside covers the horn plate; and a mounting projection extending from the damper body and inserted into and locked in a mounting hole of the horn plate, such that the first and second contact plate parts rest against its outside.

[0034] The multiple mounting protrusions can be positioned along the circumferential surface of the damper body.

[0035] The damper body may comprise: an inner element, installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing; an outer element, arranged outside the inner element, installed in a form covering the horn plate and connected to the mounting projection; and a connecting element, which connects the inner element and the outer element.

[0036] The horn bolt part may comprise: a head element located above the horn plate, extending from the head element and passing through the interior of the first damper housing; and a fastening body extending from the bolt body and attached to the hub part.

[0037] The first damper housing may comprise: a housing head arranged above the damper part and having an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the damper part; a first housing body extending from the housing head and arranged between the damper part and the horn bolt part; and a fastening body extending from the first housing body and having a screw thread on its outer surface such that the second damper housing is attached to the screw thread.

[0038] The second damper housing may include: a second housing body attached to the outside of the mounting body; and a support element extending outwards from the second housing body and supported by the horn spring.

[0039] The first contact plate part may have: a first body designed to support the head element of the horn bolt part; a first inner projection extending laterally from the first body and supporting the first damper housing; and a second contact projection extending downwards from the first body and bearing against the damper part.

[0040] The first contact projection can be formed by several projections extending circumferentially along the underside of the first body, or by a projection projecting in a ring shape.

[0041] The second contact plate part may have: a second body arranged below the damper part; a second inner projection extending laterally from the second body and supported by the horn spring; and a second contact projection extending upwards from the second body and bearing against the damper part.

[0042] The second damper projection can be formed by several projections extending circumferentially along the top of the second body, or by a projection extending in a ring shape.

[0043] According to the embodiments described in the present disclosure, it is possible, since the damper housing is installed between the damper part and the horn bolt part, to prevent damage that would otherwise occur when the damper part, which is made of an elastic material, rests against the horn bolt part, which is made of steel.

[0044] Since the horn bolt part and the damper part are spaced apart, a change in the natural frequency of the damper part can be prevented, and the horn can be actuated precisely, thus improving the horn's functional reliability.

[0045] Since the second damper housing is screwed onto the first damper housing, it is also possible to reduce the time and costs required for the connection and maintenance process.

[0046] Furthermore, the damper element is not brought into contact with the contact plate element in a primary vibration region of the damper element, but only in a non-primary vibration region of the contact plate element. It is therefore possible to prevent a change in the natural frequency of the damper element.

[0047] Since the rotation of the damper housing is not transferred to the contact plate part, deformation of the damper part can also be prevented, thus improving the durability of the damper part.

[0048] Furthermore, since the contact plate part rests against the head element of the horn bolt part in front of the damper housing, noise can be reduced.

[0049] Furthermore, since only the first and second contact protrusions are in contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the damper part respectively, the contacts between the damper part and the adjacent parts on the upper and lower surfaces of the same can be minimized in order to improve the durability of the damper part.

[0050] The damper element is not brought into contact with the contact plate element in its main vibration region, but only in its non-main vibration region. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a change in the damper element's natural frequency.

[0051] Since the rotation of the damper housing is not transferred to the contact plate part, deformation of the damper part can also be prevented, thus improving the durability of the damper part.

[0052] Furthermore, since the contact plate part rests against the head element of the horn bolt part in front of the damper housing, noise can be reduced. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view for the schematic representation of a steering wheel structure for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing that a horn bolt part is attached to a horn plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a first contact and a second contact according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating the horn plate according to the embodiment described in the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view illustrating main parts of the steering wheel for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing that a damper part is attached according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing that a first damper housing according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a second damper housing. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing that a release prevention projection according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a mounting groove of the second damper housing and locked in it. Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective view for the schematic representation of a steering wheel structure for a vehicle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing that a horn bolt part and a contact plate part are mounted on a horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view illustrating a first contact and a second contact according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating the horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 13 is a perspective exploded view illustrating main parts of the steering wheel for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing that a damper part is attached according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a main vibration range and a non-main vibration range of the damper part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective view illustrating the damper part and a contact plate part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 17 is a perspective view illustrating the damper part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective view for the schematic representation of a structure for a vehicle according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 19 is a perspective view showing that a horn bolt part and a contact plate part are mounted on a horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 20 is a perspective view illustrating a first contact and a second contact according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 21 is a perspective view illustrating the horn plate according to the embodiment described in the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 22 is a perspective exploded view illustrating main parts of the steering wheel for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view showing that a damper part is attached according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 24 is a diagram of a main vibration range and a non-main vibration range of the damper part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 25 is a perspective view illustrating the damper part and a contact plate part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figures 26 to 28 are bottom views illustrating a first contact plate part and a first contact projection according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figures 29 to 31 are top views illustrating a second contact plate part and a second contact projection according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 32 is a top view illustrating the damper part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the illustrated exemplary embodiments

[0053] The following describes a steering wheel for a vehicle with reference to the accompanying drawings and various exemplary embodiments. It should be noted that the drawings are not to scale and may be exaggerated with regard to line thickness or component size solely for the sake of clarity and simplification of the description. Furthermore, the terms used here are defined in the present disclosure with regard to their functions and may be varied according to the purposes of a user or operator. Therefore, the terms should be defined based on the present description.

[0054] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view schematically representing the structure of a steering wheel for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view showing that a horn bolt part is attached to a horn plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a first contact and a second contact according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating the horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view illustrating main parts of the steering wheel for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing that a damper part is attached according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing that a first damper housing according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from a second damper housing, and Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing that a release prevention projection according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is inserted into a mounting groove of the second damper housing and locked in it.

[0055] As in the Fig. Figures 1 to 8 show that the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a damper part 30, a horn bolt part 40, a damper housing 59, and a horn spring 100. The damper part 30 is made of an elastic material and is installed in a connecting hole 12 of a horn plate 10. The horn bolt part 40 is attached to a hub part 24 by the damper part 30 and guides the movement of the horn plate 10. The damper housing 50 is arranged between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40 and moves with the damper part 30. The horn spring 100 supports the damper housing 50 and is elastic.

[0056] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, a horn actuation structure is arranged in the horn plate 10 and is moved in a top-to-bottom direction to actuate a contact for horn operation. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the horn plate 10 is located above the hub part 24 and is designed in the form of a plate with several connecting holes 12, in each of which the damper parts 30 are mounted. Such a horn plate 10 supports an airbag module and actuates the horn when it is moved in a top-to-bottom direction by the driver's pressure.

[0057] The steering wheel 1 for a vehicle has a rim 20, a spoke 22 and the hub part 24, and the horn plate 10 is mounted above the hub part 24 such that it faces the hub part. The horn plate 10 is connected to the airbag module and covered by a separate cover element, with the horn plate 10 being arranged above the hub part 24.

[0058] The ring-shaped rim 20 is located outside the hub part 24, such that the rider can easily hold the rim 20, and the rim 20 and the hub part 24 are connected to each other by the spoke 22.

[0059] As in the Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the damper part 30 consists of an elastic material and is installed in the connecting hole 12 of the horn plate 10 and can be modified into various shapes as long as the damper part 30 can reduce vibrations. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the damper part 30 consists of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone.

[0060] The damper part 30 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an inner element 33, an outer element 34, and a connecting element 35. The inner element 33 is arranged in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing 50. The outer element 34 is located outside the inner element 33 and is installed in a form covering the horn plate 10. The connecting element 35 connects the inner element 33 and the outer element 34.

[0061] The inner element 33 is installed in a form covering the outside of a first damper housing 60 and extends vertically in a longitudinal direction. The outer element 34 is mounted in a ring shape outside the inner element 33 and is installed in a form covering the horn plate 10, facing the connecting hole 12.

[0062] The outer element 34 has a U-shaped cross-section and is mounted on the horn plate 10, covering both the top and bottom of the horn plate 10. Therefore, the outer element 34 prevents the damper part from detaching from the horn plate 10.

[0063] The connecting element 35 is designed in a ring shape to connect the outer element 34 and the inner element 33, and has buffer spaces formed on the top and bottom of the same in such a way that the inner element 33 can be moved through the buffer spaces.

[0064] The horn bolt part 40 can be modified in various forms, as long as the horn bolt part 40 is attached to the hub part 24 by the damper part 30 and guides the movement of the horn plate 10. The horn bolt part 40 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has a head element 42 located above the horn plate 10, a bolt body 44 extending from the head element 42 through the interior of the damper housing 50, and a fastening body 46 extending from the bolt body 44 and attached to the hub part 24.

[0065] The horn bolt part 40 is made of steel and serves as a vertical shaft that guides the horn plate 10 and the damper part 30 to movement in a top-to-bottom direction when the horn is activated.

[0066] The head element 42 is located above the horn plate 10 and extends in a horizontal direction. The first damper housing 60 is arranged below the head element 42.

[0067] The bolt body 44 has the shape of a column that extends downwards from the head element 42 and passes through the interior of the damper housing 50. The fastening body 46 extends from the bolt body 44 and is provided with a screw thread on its outer surface so that it can be fastened to the hub part 24.

[0068] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, the damper housing 50 can be modified in various forms, as long as the damper housing 50 is arranged between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40 and moves with the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the damper housing 50 is made of a plastic material and is arranged above, below, and inside the damper part 30 such that the damper part 30 does not directly contact the horn bolt part 40.

[0069] Such a damper housing 50 comprises a first damper housing 60 and a second damper housing 70. The first damper housing 60 extends from the top of the horn plate 10 to the bottom of the damper part 30, and the second damper housing 70 is located below the damper part 30, is attached to the first damper housing 60 and is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0070] The damper housing 50 is formed from two parts. The first damper housing 60 protects the top of the damper part 30 and the inner surface of the damper part 30 facing the bolt body 44. The second damper housing 70 protects the underside of the damper part 30.

[0071] The first damper housing 60, for preventing contact between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40, has a housing head 62, a first housing body 64, a fastening body 66, and an anti-loosening projection 67. The housing head 62 is located between the damper part 30 and the head element 42. The first housing body 64 extends from the housing head 62 and is located between the damper part 30 and the bolt body 44. The fastening body 66 extends from the first housing body 64 and has a screw thread formed on its outer surface, such that the second damper housing 70 is fastened to the screw thread. The anti-loosening projection 67 projects from the underside of the fastening body 66 and is inserted into and locked in a mounting groove of the second damper housing 70.

[0072] The first housing body 64 has a hollow area in which the bolt body 44 is located. The first housing body 64 is designed in the form of a tube extending from top to bottom, and the housing head 62 is connected to the top of the first housing body 64.

[0073] The housing head 62 extends obliquely upwards from the top of the first housing body 64 and then horizontally. The housing head 62 has an inclined surface that abuts an inclined surface formed on the underside of the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The top of the housing head 62 faces the underside of the head element 42, and the underside of the housing head 62 faces the top of the damper part 30. Thus, the top of the housing head 62 supports the head element 42, and the underside of the housing head 62 rests against the damper part 30.

[0074] The first housing body 64 is installed vertically through the center of the inner element 33, and the fastening body 66 is connected to the underside of the first housing body 64. The fastening body 66 is located below the inner element 33 and has a screw thread formed on its outer surface.

[0075] The second damper housing 70 can be modified in various ways, provided that the second damper housing 70 is located below the damper part 30, is attached to the first damper housing 60, and moves with the first damper housing 60, and that its underside is supported by the horn spring 100. The second damper housing 70 prevents the horn spring 100 from coming into direct contact with the damper part 30. For this purpose, the underside of the second damper housing 70 is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0076] The second damper housing 70 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a second housing body 72 and a support element 74. The second housing body 72 is attached to the outside of the mounting body 66, and the support element 74 extends outwards from the second housing body 72 and is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0077] The mounting body 66 of the first damper housing 60 and the second housing body 72 of the second damper housing 70 are assembled using a screw connection method. For this purpose, screw threads are formed on the outside of the mounting body 66 and on the inside of the second housing body 72.

[0078] The anti-loosening projection 67 extends downwards from the underside of the fastening body 66 facing the second housing body 72 and is inserted into and locked in the mounting groove of the second housing body 72. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the anti-loosening projection 67 has a cross-section in the form of a right-angled triangle. In this embodiment, the multiple anti-loosening projections 67 are arranged circumferentially on the underside.

[0079] The inclined surface 68 of the anti-loosening projection 67 is mounted on the underside of the mounting body 66 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, and the second damper housing 70 is locked to a vertically projecting locking lug 69 of the anti-loosening projection 67, preventing the first damper housing 60 from coming loose. The anti-loosening projection 67, which is a locking structure designed as an inclined surface, is formed at one end of the mounting body 66.

[0080] The anti-loosening projection 67 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has an inclined surface 68 and the locking lug 69. The inclined surface 68 is inclined downwards and projects from the fastening body 66, and the locking lug 69 has an end formed on one side of the inclined surface 68. In the present embodiment, the multiple anti-loosening projections 67 are arranged circumferentially along the underside of the fastening body 66 and are rotated with the bolt body 44 and locked and secured in the mounting grooves 86.

[0081] The structure secured by the anti-loosening projection 67 is described again below. The second housing body 72 is screwed to the mounting body 66, and the anti-loosening projection 67 is rotated while bearing against a base surface 75 formed inside the second damper housing 70. The base surface 75 of the second damper housing 70 is deformed along the inclined surface 68 of the anti-loosening projection 67, and subsequently the anti-loosening projection 67 is inserted into the mounting groove 86 and prevented from moving.

[0082] Although the second damper housing 70 is intended to rotate due to vibrations or the like, the base surface 75 is locked to the locking projection 69 of the anti-loosening projection 67. Thus, the rotation of the second damper housing 70 is restricted to prevent it from loosening.

[0083] The second damper housing 70 is located below the inner element 33, and the second damper housing 70 is screwed to the outside of the mounting body 66. Since the first and second damper housings 60 and 70 can be easily separated and connected, maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0084] The second housing body 72 is attached by a form covering the outside of the mounting body 66 and is installed such that its upper surface rests against the inner element 33. The outer element 34 and the connecting element 35 of the damper part 30 are located on the upper surface of the support element 74, projecting laterally from the second housing body 72, and the underside of the support element 74 is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0085] The horn spring 100 supports the damper housing 50 and exhibits elasticity. When the horn is activated, the damper part 30 and the damper housing 50, including the horn plate 10, are moved downwards, and the horn plate 10, which has been relieved of an external pressure force, is pushed upwards by a restoring force of the horn spring 100.

[0086] The horn plate 10, moving in a downward direction, has a first contact 110, and the hub part 24 facing the first contact 110 has a second contact 115. Since the first contact 110 is brought into contact with the second contact 115 by the downward movement of the horn plate 10, the horn is activated.

[0087] The following describes in detail the function of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the associated drawings.

[0088] To activate the horn by pressing the top of the hub part 24 of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the horn plate 10 is moved downwards to bring the first contact 110 into contact with the second contact 115. The horn is then activated. The horn spring 100 is compressed by the downward movement of the horn plate 10, and the horn spring 100 returns to its initial state when an external force is removed, moving the horn plate 10 upwards.

[0089] When the horn plate 10 is moved up and down, the damper part 30 and the damper housing 50 are moved up and down along the horn bolt part 40, forming a buffer module.

[0090] When the vehicle is moving or stopped, vibrations transmitted to the hub part 24 are absorbed by the damper part 30 and the other parts except the damper housing 50 do not touch the damper part 30, thus making it possible to prevent a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30.

[0091] Since no interlocking structures in the direction of rotation are provided between the damper housing 50 and the damper part 30, deformations in the damper part 30 caused by the rotational processes of adjacent parts can be prevented.

[0092] According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the damper housing 50 is installed between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40, thus preventing damage that would occur if the damper part 30, made of an elastic material, came into contact with the steel horn bolt part 40. Since the horn bolt part 40 and the damper part 30 are installed separately, a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30 can be prevented, and the horn can be actuated precisely, thereby improving its operational reliability. Because the second damper housing 70 is screwed to the first damper housing 60, the time and costs required for connecting and maintaining the parts are reduced.

[0093] Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective view for the schematic representation of a steering wheel structure for a vehicle according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing that a horn bolt part and a contact plate part are mounted on a horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view illustrating a first contact and a second contact according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating the horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 13 is a perspective exploded view illustrating main parts of the steering wheel for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing that a damper part is attached according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating a main vibration range and a non-main vibration range of the damper part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective view illustrating the damper part and a contact plate part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. Figure 17 is a perspective view illustrating the damper part according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] As in the Fig. Figures 9 to 17 show that the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a damper part 30, a horn bolt part 40, a damper housing 50, and a contact plate part 80. The damper part 30 is made of an elastic material and is installed in a connecting hole 12 of a horn plate 10. The horn bolt part 40 is attached to a hub part 24 through the damper part 30 and guides the movement of the horn plate 10. The damper housing 50 is located between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40 and moves with the damper part 30. The contact plate part 80 is installed between the damper housing 50 and the damper part 30.

[0095] The horn plate 10 has a horn actuation structure located thereon and actuates a contact for activating the horn as it moves up and down along the horn bolt part 40. According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the horn plate 10 is arranged above the hub part 24 and is designed in the form of a plate, having several connecting holes 12 in which the damper parts 30 are each installed. The connecting hole 12 has several mounting holes 14, which are designed around its circumference such that mounting projections 36 of the damper part 30 are installed in the mounting holes 14.

[0096] Such a horn plate 10 supports an airbag module and activates the horn while being moved in a downward direction by the pressure of a driver.

[0097] The steering wheel 1 for a vehicle has a rim 20, a spoke 22 and the hub part 24, and the horn plate 10 is mounted above the hub part 24 such that it faces the hub part 24. The horn plate 10 is connected to the airbag module and covered by a separate cover element, with the horn plate 10 being arranged above the hub part 24.

[0098] The ring-shaped rim 20 is located outside the hub part 24, such that the rider can easily hold the rim 20, and the rim 20 and the hub part 24 are connected to each other by the spoke 22.

[0099] The damper part 30 is made of an elastic material and is installed in the connecting hole 12 of the horn plate 10. It can be modified into various shapes as long as the damper part 30 can reduce vibrations. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the damper part 30 is made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone.

[0100] The damper part 30 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a damper body 32 and the mounting projection 36. The damper body 32 is installed in such a way that its inner side rests against the damper housing 50, and its outer side covers the horn plate 10, and the mounting projection 36 extends from the damper body 32 and is inserted into and locked into the mounting hole 14 of the horn plate 10 such that the first and second contact plate parts 82 and 90 rest against the outer side of the mounting projection 36.

[0101] The damper body 32 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an inner element 33, an outer element 34 and a connecting element 35. The inner element 33 is installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing 50, the outer element 34 is located outside the inner element 33 and is installed with a form covering the horn plate 10, and the connecting element 35 connects the inner element 33 and the outer element 34.

[0102] The inner element 33 is installed with a form covering the inside of a first damper housing 60 and extends vertically in the longitudinal direction. The outer element 34 is arranged in a ring shape outside the inner element 33 and is installed with a form covering the horn plate 10, facing the connecting hole 12.

[0103] The outer element 34 has a U-shaped cross-section and is mounted on the horn plate 10, covering both the top and bottom of the horn plate 10. Therefore, the outer element 34 prevents the damper part from detaching from the horn plate 10.

[0104] The connecting element 35 is designed in a ring shape to connect the outer element 34 and the inner element 33, and has buffer spaces formed on the top and bottom of the same in such a way that the inner element 33 can be moved through the buffer spaces.

[0105] The fastening projection 36 can be modified in various forms, as long as the fastening projection 36 extends from the outer element 34 and is inserted into the fastening hole 14 of the horn plate 10 and locked therein. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the fastening projection 36 extends outwards from the outer element 34 and is secured in the fastening hole 14 formed in the horn plate 10.

[0106] The damper part 30 with the mounting projections 36 can be attached to the horn plate 10 by injection molding or manufactured as a separate element from the horn plate 10 and then connected to the horn plate 10.

[0107] Since the fastening projection 36 is attached to the fastening hole 14 formed on the outside of the connecting hole 12, the fastening projection 36 becomes a non-main vibration area (a) in which less vibration is generated than at the inner element 33. The inner element 33 becomes a main vibration area (b) in which more vibration is generated than at the fastening projection 36.

[0108] The fastening projections 36 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure are rectangular in shape and are attached at predetermined intervals along the outer circumference of the outer element.

[0109] The horn bolt part 40 can be modified in various forms, as long as the horn bolt part 40 is attached to the hub part 24 by the damper part 30 and guides the movement of the horn plate 10. The horn bolt part 40 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has a head element 42 located above the horn plate 10, a bolt body 44 extending from the head element 42 and passing through the interior of the damper housing 50, and a fastening body 46 extending from the bolt body 44 and attached to the hub part 24.

[0110] The horn bolt part 40 is made of steel and serves as a vertical shaft that guides the horn plate 10 and the damper part 30 to movement in a top-to-bottom direction when the horn is activated.

[0111] The head element 42 is located above the horn plate 10 and extends in a horizontal direction. A first body 83 of the first contact plate part 82 is located below the head element 42. Since the section in which the head element 42 and the first contact plate part 82 are in contact with each other is the non-main vibration area (a), fewer vibrations are generated than in the main vibration area (b).

[0112] The bolt body 44 has the shape of a column that extends downwards from the head element 42 and passes through the interior of the damper housing 50. The fastening body 46 extends from the bolt body 44 and is provided with a screw thread on its outer surface so that it can be fastened to the hub part 24.

[0113] The damper housing 50 can be modified in various forms, as long as the damper housing 50 is arranged between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40 and moves with the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the damper housing 50 is made of a plastic material and is arranged above, below, and inside the damper part 30 such that the damper part 30 does not directly contact the horn bolt part 40.

[0114] Such a damper housing 50 comprises a first damper housing 60 and a second damper housing 70. The first damper housing 60 extends from the top of the horn plate 10 to the bottom of the damper part 30, and the second damper housing 70 is located below the damper part 30, is attached to the first damper housing 60 and is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0115] The first damper housing 60 can be modified into various shapes, as long as the first damper housing 60 extends from the top of the first contact plate part 82 to the bottom of the damper part 30. The first damper housing 60 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has a housing head 62, a first housing body 64, and a mounting body 66. The housing head 62 is located above the damper part 30 and has an outer diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the damper part 30. The first damper housing 64 extends from the housing head 62 and is arranged between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40. The mounting body 66 extends from the first housing body 64 and has a screw thread formed on its outer surface, such that the second damper housing 70 is attached to the screw thread.

[0116] The first housing body 64 has a hollow area in which the bolt body 44 is located. The first housing body 64 is designed in the form of a tube extending from top to bottom, and the housing head 62 is connected to the top of the first housing body 64.

[0117] The housing head 62 extends obliquely upwards from the top of the first housing body 64 and then horizontally. The housing head 62 has an inclined surface that abuts an inclined surface formed on the underside of the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The top of the housing head 62 does not abut the underside of the head element 42, and only the first contact plate part 82 abuts the underside of the head element 42.

[0118] The first housing body 64 is installed vertically through the center of the inner element 33, and the fastening body 66 is connected to the underside of the first housing body 64. The fastening body 66 is located on the underside of the inner element 33 and has a screw thread formed on its outer surface.

[0119] The second damper housing 70 can be modified in various ways, provided that the second damper housing 70 is located below the second contact plate part 90 and is attached to the first damper housing 60, and its underside is supported by the horn spring 100. The second damper housing 70 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has a second housing body 72 and a support element 74. The second housing body 72 is attached to the outside of the mounting body 66, and the support element 74 extends outwards from the second housing body 72 and is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0120] The second damper housing 70 is located below the inner element 33 and is screwed to the outside of the mounting body 66. Since the first and second damper housings 60 and 70 are easily separable and connectable, maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0121] The second housing body 72 is installed with a form covering the outside of the mounting body 66 and is positioned such that its upper surface rests against the inner element 33. The second contact plate part 90 is arranged on the upper side of the support element 74, which extends laterally from the second housing body 72, and the underside of the support element 74 is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0122] The contact plate part 80 is installed between the damper housing 50 and the damper part 30 and rests against the top and bottom of the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the contact plate part 80 comprises the first contact plate part 82 and the second contact plate part 90.

[0123] The first contact plate part 82 is attached in the system on the top of the mounting projection 36, which is located in the non-main vibration area (a) in the damper part 30, and the top of the first contact plate part 82 rests against the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40.

[0124] The first contact plate part 82 can therefore determine the distance between the head element 42 and the mounting projection 36. If the distance between the head element 42 and the mounting projection 36 is increased, the size of the first contact plate part 82 is increased to adjust the distance between the head element 42 and the mounting projection 36.

[0125] The second contact plate part 90 is attached to the underside of the mounting projection 36, which is located in the non-main vibration area (a) in the damper part 30, and the body of the second contact plate part 90 is locked and supported by the second damper housing 70. Since the second contact plate part 90 rests against the second damper housing 70, which is supported by the horn spring 100, the horn tension caused by the horn spring 100 can therefore be transmitted to the damper part 30.

[0126] Since the contact plate part 80 is installed, the damper body 32 only rests on the first damper housing 60 and does not rest on the other parts in the main vibration area (b) in which the damper body 32 of the damper part 30 is located, making it possible to improve the durability of the damper part 30 and to prevent a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30.

[0127] The first damper housing 60 and the second damper housing 70 are attached by interposition of the inner element 33 of the damper part 30, the first contact plate part 82 is placed between the damper part 30 and the first damper housing 60, and the second contact plate part 90 is arranged between the damper part 30 and the second damper housing 70 to form a single buffer module.

[0128] The contact plate part 80 is connected to the damper housing 50 in a downward direction, but is not engaged with the damper housing 50 in the direction of rotation. Since the contact plate part 80 is not engaged with the damper housing 50 in the direction of rotation, the contact plate part 80 does not rotate, even though the damper housing 50 rotates. It is therefore possible to prevent the contact surface of the damper part 30, against which the contact plate part 80 rests, from being deformed in a shear direction in the direction of rotation of the damper housing 50.

[0129] This means that, since no interlocking structures in the direction of rotation are provided between the damper housing 50 and the contact plate part 80, no rotation occurs on the upper and lower shear surfaces of the damper part 30, even though the damper housing 50 is rotated by assembly and vibrations.

[0130] Since the first contact plate part 82 is mounted higher than the first damper housing 60, the first contact plate part 82 is in direct contact with the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. Therefore, when the horn plate 10 is moved up and down to actuate the horn, it is possible to prevent operating noises that are generated by interference between the first damper housing 60 and the first contact plate part 82.

[0131] The first contact plate part 82 has a first body 83, a first inner projection 84, and a first contact projection 85. The first body 83 is installed between the top of the damper part 30 and the first damper housing 60 and supports the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The first inner projection 84 extends laterally from the first body 83 and supports the first damper housing 60. The first contact projection 85 extends downwards from the first body 82 and rests against the damper part 30.

[0132] The first body 83 is installed in a ring shape to cover the outside of the housing head 62, and the top of the first body 83 supports the underside of the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The first inner projection 84, projecting into the interior of the first body 83, supports the underside of the housing head 62. When the first body 83 rests against the underside of the head element 42, the housing head 62 is separated from the head element 42.

[0133] The first contact projection 85, which protrudes from the underside of the first body 83, is attached to the top of the mounting projection 36 of the damper part 30.

[0134] The second contact plate part 90 can be modified in various forms, as long as the second contact plate part 90 is installed between the underside of the damper part 30 and the second damper housing 70 and transmits the spring force of the horn spring 100 to the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the second contact plate part 90 has a second body 92, a second inner projection 94, and a second contact projection 96. The second body 92 is arranged below the damper part 30. The second inner projection 94 extends laterally from the second body 92 and is supported by the horn spring 100. The second contact projection 96 extends upwards from the second body 92 and rests against the damper part 30.

[0135] The second body 92 is installed in a ring shape to cover the second damper housing 70, and the underside of the second inner projection 94 projecting into the interior of the second body 92 is supported by the support element 74 of the second damper housing 70. The second contact projection 96 projecting from the second body 92 is installed abutting the underside of the mounting projection 36.

[0136] The horn spring 100 is attached to the top of the hub part 24, supporting the second damper housing 70. When the horn is activated, the damper part 30, including the horn plate 10, is moved downwards, and the horn plate 10, relieved of an external pressure force, is moved upwards by a restoring force of the horn spring 100.

[0137] The horn plate 10, moving in a top-to-bottom direction, has a first contact 110, and the hub part 24 facing the first contact 110 has a second contact 115. Since the first contact 110 is brought into contact with the second contact 115 by the top-to-bottom movement of the horn plate 10, the horn is activated.

[0138] In the damper structure of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the non-main vibration area (a) has the mounting projection 36, the first body 83 located above the mounting projection 36 and the second body 92 located below the mounting projection 36.

[0139] In the damper structure of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the main vibration area (b) comprises the damper body 32 and the second damper housing 70. Since less vibration is applied to the non-main vibration area (a) than to the main vibration area (b), the non-main vibration area (a) vibrates less than the main vibration area (b).

[0140] The following describes in more detail the functioning of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the associated drawings.

[0141] To activate the horn by pressing the top of the hub part 24 of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the horn plate 10 is moved downwards to bring the first contact 110 into contact with the second contact 115. The horn is then activated. The horn spring 100 is compressed by the downward movement of the horn plate 10, and the horn spring 100 is returned to its initial state by the removal of an external force, moving the horn plate 10 upwards.

[0142] When the horn plate 10 is moved up and down, the damper part 30, the damper housing 50 and the contact plate part 80 are moved up and down along the horn bolt part 40, forming a single buffer module.

[0143] When the vehicle is moving or stopped, vibrations transmitted to the hub part 24 are absorbed by the damper body 32 and the other parts except the damper housing 50 are not in contact with the damper body 32, thus preventing a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30.

[0144] Vibrations transmitted to the hub part 24 are transferred by the horn bolt part 40 to the damper housing 50 and, via the contact plate part 80 abutting the damper housing 50, to the mounting projection 36, such that the damper part 30 and the contact plate part 80 are in contact with each other in the non-main vibration region (a). Since the natural frequency of the damper part 30 can be maintained compared to the buffer structure in which the contact plate part 80 is in contact with the damper body 32, the operational reliability is improved.

[0145] Since no structures interlocking in the direction of rotation are provided between the damper housing 50 and the contact plate part 80, it is possible to prevent deformation of the damper part 30 caused by rotational processes of adjacent parts.

[0146] According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the damper housing 50 is installed between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40, thus preventing damage that would occur if the damper part 30, made of an elastic material, were in contact with the steel horn bolt part 40. The damper part 30 is not in contact with the contact plate part 80 in its primary vibration region (b), but only in its secondary vibration region (a). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30. Since the rotation of the damper housing 50 is not transmitted to the contact plate part 80, deformation of the damper part 30 is prevented, thereby improving its durability.Since the contact plate part 80 rests against the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40 in front of the damper housing 50, noise can be reduced.

[0147] Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective view for the schematic representation of a structure for a vehicle according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 19 is a perspective view showing that a horn bolt part and a contact plate part are mounted on a horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 20 is a perspective view illustrating a first contact and a second contact according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 21 is a perspective view illustrating the horn plate according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 22 is a perspective exploded view illustrating main parts of the steering wheel for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view showing that a damper part is attached according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 24 is a diagram of a main vibration range and a non-main vibration range of the damper part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, Fig. Figure 25 is a perspective view illustrating the damper part and a contact plate part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figures 28 to 28 are bottom views illustrating a first contact plate part and a first contact projection according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figures 29 to 31 are top views illustrating a second contact plate part and a second contact projection according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. Figure 32 is a top view illustrating the damper part according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] As in the Fig. Figures 18 to 26 show that the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a damper part 30, a horn bolt part 40, a damper housing 50, and a contact plate part 80. The damper part 30 is made of an elastic material and is installed in a connecting hole 12 of a horn plate 10. The horn bolt part 40 is attached to a hub part 24 through the damper part 30 and guides the movement of the horn plate 10. The damper housing 50 is located between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40 and moves with the damper part 30. The contact plate part 80 is installed between the damper housing 50 and the damper part 30.

[0149] The horn plate 10 has a horn actuation structure located thereon and actuates a contact for activating the horn as it moves up and down along the horn bolt part 40. According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the horn plate 10 is arranged above the hub part 24 and is designed in the form of a plate, having several connecting holes 12 in which the damper parts 30 are each installed. The connecting hole 12 has several mounting holes 14, which are designed around its circumference such that mounting projections 36 of the damper part 30 are installed in the mounting holes 14.

[0150] Such a horn plate 10 supports an airbag module and activates the horn while being moved in a downward direction by the pressure of a driver.

[0151] The steering wheel 1 for a vehicle has a rim 20, a spoke 22 and the hub part 24, and the horn plate 10 is mounted above the hub part 24 such that it faces the hub part 24. The horn plate 10 is connected to the airbag module and covered by a separate cover element, with the horn plate 10 being arranged above the hub part 24.

[0152] The ring-shaped rim 20 is located outside the hub part 24, such that the rider can easily hold the rim 20, and the rim 20 and the hub part 24 are connected to each other by the spoke 22.

[0153] The damper part 30 is made of an elastic material and is installed in the connecting hole 12 of the horn plate 10. It can be modified into various shapes as long as the damper part 30 can reduce vibrations. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the damper part 30 is made of an elastic material such as rubber or silicone.

[0154] The damper part 30 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a damper body 32 and the mounting projection 36. The damper body 32 is installed in such a way that its inner side rests against the damper housing 50, and its outer side covers the horn plate 10, and the mounting projection 36 extends from the damper body 32 and is inserted into and locked into the mounting hole 14 of the horn plate 10 such that the first and second contact plate parts 82 and 90 rest against the outer side of the mounting projection 36.

[0155] The damper body 32 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an inner element 33, an outer element 34, and a connecting element 35. The inner element 33 is installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing 50. The outer element 34 is located outside the inner element 33 and is installed with a shape that covers the horn plate 10. The connecting element 35 connects the inner element 33 and the outer element 34.

[0156] The inner element 33 is installed with a form covering the outside of a first damper housing 60 and extends vertically in the longitudinal direction. The outer element 34 is arranged in a ring shape outside the inner element 33 and is installed with a form covering the horn plate 10, facing the connecting hole 12.

[0157] The outer element 34 has a U-shaped cross-section and is mounted on the horn plate 10, covering both the top and bottom of the horn plate 10. Therefore, the outer element 34 prevents the damper part from detaching from the horn plate 10.

[0158] The connecting element 35 is designed in a ring shape to connect the outer element 34 and the inner element 33, and has buffer spaces formed on the top and bottom of the same in such a way that the inner element 33 can be moved through the buffer spaces.

[0159] The fastening projection 36 can be modified in various forms, as long as the fastening projection 36 extends from the outer element 34 and is inserted into the fastening hole 14 of the horn plate 10 and locked therein. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the fastening projection 36 extends outwards from the outer element 34 and is secured in the fastening hole 14 formed in the horn plate 10.

[0160] The damper part 30 with the mounting projections 36 can be attached to the horn plate 10 by insert injection molding or manufactured as a separate element from the horn plate 10 and then connected to the horn plate 10.

[0161] Since the fastening projection 36 is attached to the fastening hole 14 formed on the outside of the connecting hole 12, the fastening projection 36 becomes a non-main vibration area (a) in which less vibration is generated than at the inner element 33. The inner element 33 becomes a main vibration area (b) in which more vibration is generated than at the fastening projection 36.

[0162] The fastening projections 36 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure are rectangular in shape and are attached at predetermined intervals along the outer circumference of the outer element.

[0163] The horn bolt part 40 is attached to the hub part 24 by the damper part 30 and can be deformed into various shapes as long as the horn bolt part 40 guides the movement of the horn plate 10. According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the horn bolt part 40 has a head element 42 located above the horn plate 10, a bolt body 44 extending from the head element 42 through the interior of the damper housing 50, and a fastening body 46 extending from the bolt body 44 and attached to the hub part 24.

[0164] The horn bolt part 40 is made of steel and serves as a vertical shaft that guides the horn plate 10 and the damper part 30 to movement in a top-to-bottom direction when the horn is activated.

[0165] The head element 42 is located above the horn plate 10 and extends in a horizontal direction. A first body 83 of the first contact plate part 82 is located below the head element 42. Since the section in which the head element 42 and the first contact plate part 82 are in contact with each other is the non-main vibration area (a), fewer vibrations are generated than in the main vibration area (b).

[0166] The bolt body 44 has the shape of a column that extends downwards from the head element 42 and passes through the interior of the damper housing 50. The fastening body 46 extends from the bolt body 44 and is provided with a screw thread on its outer surface so that it can be fastened to the hub part 24.

[0167] The damper housing 50 can be modified in various forms, as long as the damper housing 50 is arranged between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40 and moves with the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the damper housing 50 is made of a plastic material and is arranged above, below, and inside the damper part 30 such that the damper part 30 does not directly contact the horn bolt part 40.

[0168] Such a damper housing 50 comprises a first damper housing 60 and a second damper housing 70. The first damper housing 60 extends from the top of the horn plate 10 to the bottom of the damper part 30, and the second damper housing 70 is located below the damper part 30, is attached to the first damper housing 60 and is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0169] The first damper housing 60 can be modified into various shapes, as long as the first damper housing 60 extends from the top of the first contact plate part 82 to the bottom of the damper part 30. The first damper housing 60 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has a housing head 62, a first housing body 64, and a mounting body 66. The housing head 62 is located above the damper part 30 and has an outer diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the damper part 30. The first damper housing 60 extends from the housing head 62 and is arranged between the damper part 30 and the horn bolt part 40. The mounting body 66 extends from the first housing body 64 and has a screw thread formed on its outer surface such that the second damper housing 70 is attached to the screw thread.

[0170] The first housing body 64 has a hollow area in which the bolt body 44 is located. The first housing body 64 is designed in the form of a tube extending from top to bottom, and the housing head 62 is connected to the top of the first housing body 64.

[0171] The housing head 62 extends obliquely upwards from the top of the first housing body 64 and then horizontally. The housing head 62 has an inclined surface that abuts an inclined surface formed on the underside of the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The top of the housing head 62 does not abut the underside of the head element 42, and only the first contact plate part 82 abuts the underside of the head element 42.

[0172] The first housing body 64 is installed vertically through the center of the inner element 33, and the fastening body 66 is connected to the underside of the first housing body 64. The fastening body 66 is located on the underside of the inner element 33 and has a screw thread formed on its outer surface.

[0173] The second damper housing 70 can be modified in various ways, provided that the second damper housing 70 is located below the second contact plate part 90 and is attached to the first damper housing 60, and its underside is supported by the horn spring 100. The second damper housing 70 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure has a second housing body 72 and a support element 74. The second housing body 72 is attached to the outside of the mounting body 66, and the support element 74 extends outwards from the second housing body 72 and is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0174] The second damper housing 70 is located below the inner element 33 and is screwed to the outside of the mounting body 66. Since the first and second damper housings 60 and 70 are easily separable and connectable, maintenance costs can be reduced.

[0175] The second housing body 72 is installed with a form covering the outside of the mounting body 66 and is positioned such that its upper surface rests against the inner element 33. The second contact plate part 90 is arranged on the upper side of the support element 74, which extends laterally from the second housing body 72, and the underside of the support element 74 is supported by the horn spring 100.

[0176] The contact plate part 80 is installed between the damper housing 50 and the damper part 30, bearing against the top and bottom of the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in this disclosure, the contact plate part 80 comprises the first contact plate part 82 and the second contact plate part 90.

[0177] The first contact plate part 82 is attached in the system on the top of the mounting projection 36, which is located in the non-main vibration area (a) in the damper part 30, and the top of the first contact plate part 82 rests against the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40.

[0178] The first contact plate part 82 can therefore determine the distance between the head element 42 and the mounting projection 36. To increase the distance between the head element 42 and the mounting projection 36, the distance between the head element 42 and the mounting projection 36 is adjusted by increasing the size of the first contact plate part 82.

[0179] The second contact plate part 90 is attached to the underside of the mounting projection 36, which is located in the non-main vibration area (a) in the damper part 30, and the body of the second contact plate part 90 is locked and supported by the second damper housing 70. Since the second contact plate part 90 rests against the second damper housing 70, which is supported by the horn spring 100, the horn tension caused by the horn spring 100 can therefore be transmitted to the damper part 30.

[0180] Since the contact plate part 80 is installed, the damper body 32 only rests on the first damper housing 60 and does not rest on the other parts in the main vibration area (b) in which the damper body 32 of the damper part 30 is located, making it possible to improve the durability of the damper part 30 and to prevent a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30.

[0181] The first damper housing 60 and the second damper housing 70 are attached by interposition of the inner element 33 of the damper part 30, the first contact plate part 82 is placed between the damper part 30 and the first damper housing 60, and the second contact plate part 90 is arranged between the damper part 30 and the second damper housing 70 to form a single buffer module.

[0182] The contact plate part 80 is connected to the damper housing 50 in a downward direction, but is not engaged with the damper housing 50 in the direction of rotation. Since the contact plate part 80 is not engaged with the damper housing 50 in the direction of rotation, the contact plate part 80 does not rotate, even though the damper housing 50 rotates. It is therefore possible to prevent the contact surface of the damper part 30, against which the contact plate part 80 rests, from being deformed in a shear direction in the direction of rotation of the damper housing 50.

[0183] This means that, since no interlocking structures in the direction of rotation are provided between the damper housing 50 and the contact plate part 80, no rotation occurs on the upper and lower shear surfaces of the damper part 30, even though the damper housing 50 is rotated by assembly and vibrations.

[0184] Since the first contact plate part 82 is mounted higher than the first damper housing 60, the first contact plate part 82 is in direct contact with the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. Therefore, it is possible to prevent operating noises that are generated by interference between the first damper housing 60 and the first contact plate part 82 when the horn plate 10 is moved up and down to actuate the horn.

[0185] The first contact plate part 82 has a first body 83, a first inner projection 84, and a first contact projection 85. The first body 83 is installed between the top of the damper part 30 and the first damper housing 60 and supports the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The first inner projection 84 extends laterally from the first body 83 and supports the first damper housing 60. The first contact projection 85 extends downwards from the first body 83 and rests against the damper part 30.

[0186] The first body 83 is installed in a ring shape to cover the outside of the housing head 62, and the top of the first body 83 supports the underside of the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40. The first inner projection 84, projecting into the interior of the first body 83, supports the underside of the housing head 62. When the first body 83 rests against the underside of the head element 42, the housing head 62 is separated from the head element 42.

[0187] The first contact projection 85, projecting from the underside of the first body 83, is designed to abut the upper side of the mounting projection 36 of the damper part 30. The first contact projection 85 can be modified with various shapes, such as a ring, a projection, or an elliptical projection.

[0188] As in Fig. Figure 26 shows the first contact projection 85, which extends downwards from the first contact plate part 82, an annular projection. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 27, a first contact projection 86, which extends downwards from the first contact plate part 82, has several projections formed in the direction of a circular arc around the first body 83. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 28 shows that the several elliptical first contact projections 87, which are spaced apart from each other by predetermined angles, are provided in the direction of a circular arc around the first body 83.

[0189] The first contact projections 86 to 87 and the second contact projections 96 to 98 can be point-shaped projections arranged radially, or linear projections arranged in a ring shape. The damper part 30 and the contact plate part 80 are therefore in line or point contact with each other.

[0190] The second contact plate part 90 can be modified in various forms, as long as the second contact plate part 90 is installed between the underside of the damper part 30 and the second damper housing 70 and transmits the spring force of the horn spring 100 to the damper part 30. According to the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the second contact plate part 90 has a second body 92, a second inner projection 94, and a second contact projection 96. The second body 92 is arranged below the damper part 30. The second inner projection 94 extends laterally from the second body 92 and is supported by the horn spring 100. The second contact projection 96 extends upwards from the second body 92 and rests against the damper part 30.

[0191] The second body 92 is installed in a ring shape to cover the second damper housing 70, and the underside of the second inner projection 94, which projects into the interior of the second body 92, is supported by the support element 74 of the second damper housing 70. The second contact projection 96, projecting from the second body 92, is installed abutting the underside of the mounting projection 36. The second contact projection 96 can be modified with various shapes, such as a ring, a projection, or an elliptical projection.

[0192] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 29, the second contact projection 96, which extends upwards from the second contact plate part 90, is an annular projection. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 30, a second contact projection 97, which extends upwards from the second contact plate part 90, has several projections formed in the direction of a circular arc around the second body 92. Alternatively, as shown in Fig. Figure 31 shows that the several elliptical second contact projections 98, which are spaced apart from each other by predetermined angles, are provided in the direction of a circular arc around the second body 92.

[0193] The horn spring 100 is attached to the top of the hub part 24, supporting the second damper housing 70. When the horn is activated, the damper part 30, including the horn plate 10, is moved downwards, and the horn plate 10, relieved of an external pressure force, is moved upwards by a restoring force of the horn spring 100.

[0194] The horn plate 10, moving in a top-to-bottom direction, has a first contact 110, and the hub part 24 facing the first contact 110 has a second contact 115. Since the first contact 110 is brought into contact with the second contact 115 by the top-to-bottom movement of the horn plate 10, the horn is activated.

[0195] In the damper structure of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the non-main vibration area (a) has the mounting projection 36, the first body 83 located above the mounting projection 36 and the second body 92 located below the mounting projection 36.

[0196] In the damper structure of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the main vibration area (b) comprises the damper body 32 and the second damper housing 70. Since less vibration is applied to the non-main vibration area (a) than to the main vibration area (b), the non-main vibration area (a) vibrates less than the main vibration area (b).

[0197] The following describes in more detail the functioning of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle according to the embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to the associated drawings.

[0198] To activate the horn by pressing the top of the hub part 24 of the steering wheel 1 for a vehicle, the horn plate 10 is moved downwards to bring the first contact 110 into contact with the second contact 115. The horn is then activated. The horn spring 100 is compressed by the downward movement of the horn plate 10, and the horn spring 100 is returned to its initial state by the removal of an external force, moving the horn plate 10 upwards.

[0199] When the horn plate 10 is moved up and down, the damper part 30, the damper housing 50 and the contact plate part 80 are moved up and down along the horn bolt part 40, forming a single buffer module.

[0200] When the vehicle is moving or stopped, vibrations transmitted to the hub part 24 are absorbed by the damper body 32 and the other parts except the damper housing 50 are not in contact with the damper body 32, thus preventing a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30.

[0201] Vibrations transmitted to the hub part 24 are transferred by the horn bolt part 40 to the damper housing 50 and, via the contact plate part 80 abutting the damper housing 50, to the mounting projection 36, such that the damper part 30 and the contact plate part 80 are in contact with each other in the non-main vibration region (a). Since the natural frequency of the damper part 30 can be maintained compared to the buffer structure in which the contact plate part 80 is in contact with the damper body 32, the operational reliability is improved.

[0202] Since no structures interlocking in the direction of rotation are provided between the damper housing 50 and the contact plate part 80, it is possible to prevent deformation of the damper part 30 caused by rotational processes of adjacent parts.

[0203] According to the shapes and numbers of the first and second contact projections 85 and 96 that abut the damper part 30, the resonance frequency of the damper part 30 can be determined in a Z-direction (from top to bottom direction based on Fig.24) can be adjusted. For example, if the target resonant frequency of the damper part 30 is very high, the first and second contact projections 85 and 96 can be lengthened in a line shape, or the number of first and second contact projections 85 and 96 can be increased. If the target resonant frequency of the damper part 30 is low, the first and second contact projections 85 and 96 can be formed in a point shape, or the number of first and second contact projections 85 and 96 can be decreased.

[0204] If vibrations occur, the mounting projection 36 of the damper part 30 can prevent the damper part 30 from rotating, thus ensuring effective damping performance and permanently securing the damper part 30 to the horn plate 10. If the damper body 32 rotates, its shape can be deformed, and continuous stress can damage it.

[0205] As previously described, since only the first and second contact projections 85 and 96 are in contact with the top and bottom surfaces of the damper part 30, respectively, the contacts between the damper part 30 and the adjacent parts on its top and bottom surfaces can be minimized, thus improving the durability of the damper part 30. The damper part 30 is not in contact with the contact plate part 80 in the main vibration region (b) of the damper part 30, but only in the non-main vibration region (a). Therefore, it is possible to prevent a change in the natural frequency of the damper part 30. Furthermore, since the rotation of the damper housing 50 is not transmitted to the contact plate part 80, deformation of the damper part 30 can be prevented, thus improving its durability.Furthermore, since the contact plate part 80 rests against the head element 42 of the horn bolt part 40 in front of the damper housing 50, noise can be reduced.

Claims

[1] Steering wheel (1) for a vehicle which has: a damper part (30) which is installed in a connecting hole (12) of a horn plate (10) and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part (40) which is attached to a hub part (24) through the damper part (30) and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate (10); a damper housing (50) which is arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40) and is moved with the damper part (30); and a horn spring (100) designed to support the damper housing (50) and exhibiting elasticity, wherein the horn bolt part (40) has: a head element (42) located on the top of the horn plate (10); a bolt body (44) extending from the head element (42) through the interior of the damper housing (50); and a fastening body (46) extending from the bolt body (44) and attached to the hub part (24), wherein the damper housing (50) has: a first damper housing (60) extending from the top of the horn plate (10) to the bottom of the damper part (30); and a second damper housing (70) located below the damper part (30), attached to the first damper housing (60) and supported by the horn spring (100), the first damper housing (60) has: a housing head (62) located between the damper part (30) and the head element (42); a first housing body (64) extending from the housing head (62) and located between the damper part (30) and the bolt body (44); and a fastening body (66) extending from the first housing body (64), the second damper housing (70) has: a second housing body (72) which is attached to the outside of the mounting body (66) characterized by , that a screw thread is formed on the outside of the fastening body (66) such that the second damper housing (70) is attached to the screw thread, and that the first damper housing (64) further comprises a release-prevention projection (67) which projects from the underside of the mounting body (66), faces the second housing body (72), and is inserted into a mounting groove of the second housing body (72) and locked therein. [2] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the damper part (30) comprises: an inner element (33) which is installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing (50); an outer element (34) arranged outside the inner element (33) and installed in a form covering the horn plate (10); and a connecting element (35) designed to connect the inner element (33) and the outer element (34). [3] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the upper side of the housing head (62) supports the head element (42) and the lower side of the housing head (62) rests against the damping element (30). [4] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the second damper housing (70) has: a support element (74) which extends outwards from the second housing body (72) and is supported by the horn spring (100). [5] Steering wheel (1) for a vehicle which has: a damper part (30) which is installed in a connecting hole (12) of a horn plate (10) and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part (40) which is attached to a hub part (24) through the damper part (30) and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate (10); a first damper housing (60) which is arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40) and extends from the top of the horn plate (10) to the bottom of the damper part (30); a second damper housing (70) arranged below the damper part (30), attached to the first damper housing (60), and supported by a horn spring (100); and the horn spring (100), which is designed to support the second damper housing (70) and has elasticity, the first damper housing (60) has: a housing head (62) arranged between the damper part (30) and a head element (42) of the horn bolt part (40); a first housing body (64) extending from the housing head (62) and arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40); and a fastening body (66) extending from the first housing body (64), characterized by , that a screw thread is formed on the outside of the mounting body (66) such that the second damper housing (70) is attached to the screw thread; and a locking protrusion (67) which extends from the underside of the fastening body (66) and is inserted into a mounting groove of the second housing body (72) and locked therein. [6] Steering wheel (1) for a vehicle which has: a damper part (30) which is installed in a connecting hole of a horn plate (10) and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part (40) which is attached to a hub part (24) through the damper part (30) and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate (10); a damper housing (50) which is arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40) and is moved with the damper part (30); and a contact plate that is installed between the damper housing (50) and the damper part (30), characterized by , that the damper part (30) has: an inner element (33) which is installed in the form of a ring, bearing against the inside of the damper housing (50); an outer element (34) arranged outside the inner element (33) and installed in a form covering the horn plate (10); and a connecting element (30) designed to connect the inner element (33) and the outer element (34), wherein the damper part (30) further has a mounting projection (36) which extends from the outer element (34) and is inserted into a mounting hole (14) of the horn plate (10) and locked in it. [7] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the horn bolt part (40) comprises: a head element (42) located on the top of the horn plate (10); a bolt body (44) extending from the head element (42) through the interior of the damper housing (50); and a fastening body (46) extending from the bolt body (44) and attached to the hub part (24). [8] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the damper housing (30) comprises: a first damper housing (60) extending from the top of the horn plate (10) to the bottom of the damper part (30); and a second damper housing (70) located below the damper part (30), attached to the first damper housing (60) and supported by a horn spring (100). [9] Steering wheel for a vehicle which has: a damper part (30) which is installed in a connecting hole (12) of a horn plate (10) and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part (40) which is attached to a hub part (24) through the damper part (30) and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate (10); a damper housing (50) which is arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40) and is moved with the damper part (30); a first contact plate part (82) which is installed between the top of the damper part (30) and the damper housing (50); and a second contact plate part (90) that is installed between the underside of the damper part (30) and the damper housing (50). [10] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the damper part (30) comprises: a damper body (32) installed in such a way that its inner side rests against the damper housing (50) and its outer side covers the horn plate (10); and a mounting projection (36) extending from the damper body (32) and inserted into and locked into a mounting hole (14) of the horn plate (10) such that the first and second contact plate parts (82, 90) are in contact with the outside of the same. [11] Steering wheel for a vehicle which has: a damper part (30) which is installed in a connecting hole (12) of a horn plate (10) and is made of an elastic material; a horn bolt part (40) which is attached to a hub part (24) through the damper part (30) and is designed to guide the movement of the horn plate (10); a first damper housing (60) which is arranged between the damper part (30) and the horn bolt part (40) and extends from the top of the horn plate (10) to the bottom of the damper part (30); a second damper housing (70) arranged below the damper part (30), attached to the first damper housing (50), and supported by a horn spring (10); a first contact plate part (82) which is installed between the top of the damper part (30) and the damper housing (50); and a second contact plate part (90) that is installed between the underside of the damper part (30) and the damper housing (50). [12] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 11, wherein the damper part (30) comprises: a damper body (32) installed in such a way that its inner side rests against the damper housing (50) and its outer side covers the horn plate (10); and a mounting projection (36) extending from the damper body (32) and inserted into and locked into a mounting hole (14) of the horn plate (10) such that the first and second contact plate parts (82, 90) are in contact with the outside of the same. [13] Steering wheel for a vehicle according to claim 11, wherein the horn bolt part (40) comprises: a head element (42) located above the horn plate (10); a bolt body (44) extending from the head element (42) and passing through the interior of the first damper housing (50); and a fastening body (46) extending from the bolt body (3044) and attached to the hub part (24).

Images