Security module attachment device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for attaching a security module (2) to a vehicle steering wheel support structure (10), the security module (2) comprising at least one cover (20), the vehicle steering wheel support structure (10) comprising a decorative part (13) visible to a user, the attachment device comprising: - a snap-fit retaining portion (ER) arranged to hold the security module (2) in place during the operation of the security module (2), characterised in that the attachment device comprises a snap-fit positioning portion (EP) arranged to exert a force to press the cover (20) onto the decorative part (13).

Description

DESCRIPTION TITLE: Device for fixing a security module Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a device for fixing a safety module, particularly an airbag module, to a vehicle steering wheel and in particular to a vehicle steering wheel supporting structure. State of the art

[0002] Devices for fixing a safety module to a vehicle steering wheel (in particular to a vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, the complete vehicle steering wheel comprising the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure and the safety module) are known in the prior art, allowing fixing of the safety module and in particular allowing adjustment / positioning of the outer cover of the safety module relative to the surface of the steering wheel, as presented in documents US3819205 or WO2021 / 244837. On the other hand, these systems may present difficulties in mounting the safety module to the vehicle steering wheel. Indeed, in the case of document US3819205, the adjustment between the safety module cover and the steering wheel body must be very precise so that the assembly can be visually of good quality; in addition, the module is assembled at the bottom of the steering wheel by screwing, which is a long operation.In the case of document WO2021 / 244837, the device for positioning the safety module cover with the steering wheel body is more complex because it must allow movement in a vertical or axial direction of the safety module to activate the horn located under the safety module. The positioning device thus consists of five sub-assemblies, which must be previously assembled before the positioning device can be integrated into the steering wheel body, which requires a large number of operations for mounting the safety module on the steering wheel body; in addition, it is necessary according to this document to provide a space. or an operating clearance between the edge of the safety module cover and the steering wheel body which may affect the aesthetic standards expected by a vehicle user. Statement of the invention

[0003] An aim of the present invention is to address the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above and in particular, first of all, to propose a quick fixing device to be mounted in a steering wheel body and / or which provides an attractive appearance to the complete vehicle steering wheel.

[0004] For this purpose, a first aspect of the invention relates to a device for fixing a safety module to a vehicle steering wheel support structure, the safety module comprising at least one cover arranged to open and allow a safety cushion to pass through, the vehicle steering wheel support structure comprising a decorative part visible to a user, the fixing device comprising: - a retaining snap-fastening portion, arranged to retain the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure during operation of the safety module, characterized in that the fixing device comprises a positioning snap-fastening portion arranged to exert on the safety module a force for pressing the cover onto the decorative part, during a phase of life of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure before operation of the safety module. The fixing device comprises a retaining snap-fastening portion for retaining and fixing the safety module on the steering wheel, but the fixing device also comprises a separate positioning snap-fastening portion, so that the safety module is thus automatically pressed against the decorative part. Such an implementation provides an aesthetic appearance without apparent play, which improves the perceived quality. It may be noted that the fixing device comprises a retaining snap portion and a positioning snap portion. It is therefore sufficient to push the security module against the steering wheel to snap it, i.e. to actuate a snap of the security module onto the steering wheel. In other words, the fixing device comprises: - a first snap-in mechanism arranged to allow the safety module to be mounted in a mounting direction, and to retain the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure during operation of the safety module (i.e. the retaining snap-in portion has the function of preventing the safety module from being dismantled or released at least during operation of the safety module: it must be ensured that the safety module does not become detached from the complete steering wheel), - a second snap-in mechanism arranged to allow the safety module to be mounted in a mounting direction, and to press the safety module onto the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure to have a play-free appearance (i.e. the positioning snap-in portion has the function of positioning without play and / or preventing the safety module from being disassembled at least during normal use of the vehicle steering wheel to drive the vehicle).

[0005] The fixing device may further have one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the plating force is arranged to ensure contact (during the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure before operation of the safety module) between the cover and the decorative part. According to one embodiment, the plating force is arranged to ensure (during the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure before operation of the safety module), between the cover and the decorative part, contact in a direction parallel to an axis of rotation of the vehicle steering wheel around an axis column, and / or in a direction of mounting of the safety module in the vehicle steering wheel, and / or in a direction opposite to a direction of deployment of the safety module. According to one embodiment, the plating force (exerted during the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure before operation of the safety module) is less than a retaining force of the safety module (exerted at the end of deployment of the airbag of the safety module). According to one embodiment, the plating force is arranged to guarantee or ensure that the safety module (and its cover) is static or immobile with respect to the decorative part and / or the supporting structure, throughout the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure before operation of the safety module.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the decorative part visible to a user comprises at least one external surface directly visible to the user of the vehicle when driving. For example, the decorative part visible to a user comprises at least one external surface directly visible to the driver of the vehicle. In other words, the decorative part visible to a user forms an appearance part or a trim part. According to one embodiment, the decorative part visible to a user is intended to hide internal components of the vehicle steering wheel, to improve the appearance of the vehicle steering wheel and / or improve the quality perceived by the user (typically the driver or an occupant of the vehicle).

[0008] According to one embodiment, the retaining snap-on portion comprises at least one flexible retaining tab arranged to provide elastic snap-fit ​​mounting of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure. This simple mounting can be designed to be easily actuated automatically when mounting the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure, by pushing the safety module towards its final position to cause the flexible retaining tab to deform. Mounting the safety module is easy, it It is sufficient to elastically deform the flexible retaining tab to snap the safety module onto the steering wheel. Furthermore, the safety module can be disassembled without damaging the retaining snap portion; provision may be made to elastically deform the flexible tab to allow disassembly. For this purpose, orifices, for example arranged on the sides of the steering wheel or the vehicle steering wheel support structure, may allow a tool to pass onto the flexible tab so as to apply a force to move the flexible tab from the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0009] According to one embodiment, - said at least one flexible retaining tab comprises a retaining shape preferably formed by a recessed shape or a hole, and said at least one flexible retaining tab is arranged on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (i.e. it is the remainder of the vehicle steering wheel), - the other of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure comprises a retaining counterform preferably formed by a protruding shape such as a hook, arranged to couple with the retaining shape during an operation of mounting the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure. This simple mounting prevents accidental disassembly of the safety module.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the retaining snap-on portion is overmolded, riveted or force-mounted on said one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure, to avoid any risk of tearing off the retaining snap-on portion during operation of the safety module. In other words, the retaining snap-on portion is permanently mounted (preferably non-removable without damage) on said one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the retaining snap portion comprises a flexible retaining strip, and the snap portion retaining strip preferably comprises two identical flexible retaining strips. Such flexible retaining strips exhibit significant elastic bending deformation. The flexible retaining strip has an elongated shape, with a length greater than twice, preferably three times or four times the width.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the positioning snap-in portion comprises at least one flexible positioning tab arranged to provide elastic snap-fit ​​mounting of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure. This simple mounting may be provided to be easily actuated automatically when mounting the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure, by pushing the safety module towards its final position to cause deformation of the flexible positioning tab.

[0013] According to one embodiment, - said at least one flexible positioning tab comprises a positioning shape preferably formed by a flat or a rim, and said at least one flexible positioning tab is arranged on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, - the other of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure comprises a positioning counterform preferably formed by a positioning plane preferably inclined relative to a mounting direction of the safety module on the steering wheel, arranged to couple with the positioning form during an operation of mounting the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure. The flexible positioning tab and the positioning counterform can thus transmit forces to press the safety module. The inclination of the positioning plane relative to a mounting direction of the safety module on the decorative part can be provided to make disassembly of the safety module possible. The inclination of the positioning plane relative to a mounting direction of the safety module on the decorative part can be provided to make disassembly of the safety module possible. mounting of the safety module is between 45° and 80°, preferably between 60° and 75°, so as to be able to ensure the disassembly of the module, without the module accidentally becoming disassembled from the body of the vehicle steering wheel and / or the supporting structure of the vehicle steering wheel.

[0014] According to one embodiment: - the positioning shape of the flexible positioning tab comprises a hollow shape or a hole or a depression and the positioning counterform comprises an index or a male shape or a protrusion intended to engage in the positioning shape, and / or - the positioning form of the flexible positioning tab comprises one or more teeth (or a notch) and the positioning counterform comprises one or more teeth (or a notch) intended to engage with the positioning form.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the positioning counterform: - is arranged below an upper face of the cover (i.e. between the upper face and the steering column for example), and / or - is arranged below a contact surface between the cover and the decorative part (i.e. between the contact surface and the steering column for example).

[0016] According to one embodiment, the fixing device comprises two positioning counterforms formed by inclined and opposite positioning planes. Thus, the forces transmitted by the two flexible positioning strips to the safety module are symmetrical and / or inclined in opposite directions and oriented relative to the mounting direction of the safety module by an angle varying from 10° to 45°, preferably varying from 15° to 30°. These small angles thus ensure a transmission of direction force essentially parallel to the mounting axis of the safety module: the positioning strips guarantee good support and / or plating of the safety module according to the safety module mounting axis.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the positioning snap-in portion is overmolded, riveted or force-mounted on said one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, to avoid any risk of tearing off the positioning snap-in portion during assembly or disassembly of the safety module.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the positioning snap portion comprises a flexible positioning strip, and the positioning snap portion preferably comprises two identical flexible positioning strips. Thus, the forces transmitted by the two flexible positioning strips to the safety module by the positioning snap portion ensure a balanced distribution of the forces transmitted to the safety module and the system is less expensive to manufacture.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the positioning snap-in portion is arranged to impose a fixed position on the cover of the safety module relative to the decorative part of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure during the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel before the operation of the safety module. In other words, the safety module is not arranged to be moved by the user during the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel. In particular, the safety module is not movable relative to the vehicle steering wheel, to allow the control of an audible warning device for example.

[0020] According to one embodiment, during an operation of mounting the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, the retaining snap-fastening portion is arranged to engage or to be activated before the positioning snap-fastening portion, guaranteeing the isostatism of the assembly of the safety module on the steering wheel, the stability of the safety module.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the positioning snap-in portion is arranged to block at least one, and preferably only one, degree of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure and the safety module, in particular the positioning snap-in portion is arranged to block at least one, and preferably only one, degree of freedom in translation. The positioning snap-in portion comprises counterforms and positioning slats inclined relative to the direction of mounting of the safety module on the steering wheel, but the elastic deformation of the flexible positioning slats leaves the possibility for the flexible slats to deform substantially, in particular in a direction perpendicular to the safety module mounting axis in which the flexible slats are almost perpendicular: bending is easy.Thus, the flexible slats mainly absorb forces along the safety module mounting axis and allow movements in directions perpendicular to the safety module dismounting axis.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the fixing device comprises a location interface arranged to block at least two degrees of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure and the safety module, in particular the location interface is arranged to block at least two degrees of freedom in translation. Preferably, the location interface is arranged to block at least two degrees of freedom in translation perpendicular to the mounting axis of the safety module.

[0023] According to one embodiment, - the positioning snap-in portion is arranged to lock a degree of freedom in translation between the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure and the safety module in a mounting direction of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, - the localization interface is arranged to block two degrees of freedom in translation in directions normal to the mounting direction of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure. Thus, the safety module is kept fixed because all translational degrees of freedom are blocked: there is no possible play between the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the location interface comprises at least one location plane arranged on at least one, and preferably on each, of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel support structure, said at least one location plane being inclined relative to the mounting direction of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure and preferably being formed on or by a rib and / or on or by a groove. For example, the module may comprise at least two ribs on two different faces of the module arranged to be force-mounted on the vehicle steering wheel support structure and arranged to be in contact, via external or lateral location planes, with faces of the decorative part or another part of the steering wheel (for example in grooves).According to an exemplary embodiment, external planes of the ribs (defining lateral faces of the safety module) ensure the centering of the safety module with respect to the two directions perpendicular to the direction of mounting of the module on the steering wheel. The inclination of the ribs makes it possible to obtain progressive localization during mounting and / or easy dismounting of the safety module.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the fixing device comprises a pre-location interface with: - at least one pre-location index arranged on one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, - at least one pre-location cavity arranged on the other of the security module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure and for receiving the pre-location index, and the pre-location interface is arranged to engage or to be activated before the retaining snap portion and the positioning snap portion when mounting the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel support structure. The presence of the pre-location index makes it possible to accelerate the mounting of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel by providing intuitive pre-guidance.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the retaining snap portion and the positioning snap portion are formed by a single snap piece. Thus, the snap piece supports the retaining snap portion and the positioning snap portion, which reduces material costs and facilitates manufacturing.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the snap-fit ​​part comprises - a first flexible end forming one of the retaining snap portion and the positioning snap portion, - a second flexible end forming the other of the retaining snap-on portion and the positioning snap-on portion, - a base portion fixed to one of the safety module and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, and arranged between the first flexible end and the second flexible end. The fixing device thus comprises few parts, and its assembly is simplified.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the positioning snap-fastening portion is arranged to exert the force of pressing the safety module against the decorative part and / or the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure: - in a direction and direction opposite to a direction and direction of deployment of the safety cushion, and / or - in a direction and direction identical to a direction and direction of mounting of the safety module on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the decorative part comprises a bearing surface, and the cover at least partially covers and contacts at least a portion of the bearing surface under the effect of the pressing force. In other words, if a cavity is provided in the steering wheel, the decorative part can form at least part of the periphery, and the cover at least partially covers and contacts at least a portion of the bearing surface of the decorative part.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the support surface: - forms an upper edge of a safety module housing in the steering wheel, and / or - forms an upper periphery of a housing of the safety module in the steering wheel, and / or - extends 360° around a safety module housing in the steering wheel, and / or - extends continuously around a safety module housing in the steering wheel.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the decorative part: - surrounds the cover of the security module (and / or extends at least partly under the cover), and / or - is formed at least partially by an overmolding material, and / or - is or forms an overmolded covering around the supporting structure, or a frame or a steering wheel casing, and / or - is a flexible material such as polyurethane foam, and / or - covers a hub of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (or the vehicle steering wheel), and / or - supports a separate and / or distinct horn control from the safety module. The horn control is therefore distinct and its operation is independent of the safety module.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the cover of the security module at least partially covers the decorative part, in order to provide a play-free and / or attractive visual appearance of the vehicle steering wheel once the safety module is installed.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the security module comprises at least: - a housing comprising a base and the cover fixed on the base, and / or - the safety cushion, arranged in the housing during the vehicle steering phase before the operation of the safety module, and / or - a gas generator, fixed to a bottom wall of the housing.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the plating force is directly applied to the housing. In other words, the plating force is not directly applied to the cover by the positioning snap-fit ​​portion.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (or the vehicle steering wheel) comprises a frame and a covering at least partially overmolded on the frame, and in which: - the retaining snap portion is directly engaged with the armature when providing restraint during operation of the safety module (to provide robust restraint), and / or - the decorative part is directly engaged with the cladding (to provide precise and play-free plating).

[0036] A second aspect of the invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one fixing device according to the first aspect of the invention. Description of figures

[0037] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the following detailed description of an embodiment of the invention given by way of non-limiting example and illustrated by the appended drawings, in which:

[0038] [fig. 1] represents a top or front view of a vehicle steering wheel comprising a safety module attached to the vehicle steering wheel by a fastening device as described in the present disclosure;

[0039] [fig. 2] represents a sectional view of the vehicle steering wheel along the axis AA shown in figure 1;

[0040] [fig. 3] represents an isometric view of the security module;

[0041] [fig. 4] represents an isometric sectional view of the vehicle steering wheel body only;

[0042] [fig. 5] represents a security module provided with an alternative fixing device according to the present disclosure;

[0043] [fig. 6] represents a vehicle steering wheel including the safety module of figure 5;

[0044] [fig. 7] represents a variant of the vehicle steering wheel of figure 1.

[0045] Detailed description of embodiment(s)

[0046] Figure 1 shows a vehicle steering wheel 1 provided with a vehicle steering wheel support structure, a safety module 2 and a horn control 3. In detail, the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 comprises a rim 11, a hub 12, spokes connecting the rim 11 to the hub 12, and at least one decorative part 13. The horn control 3 is independent of the safety module 2: the safety module 2 is fixed relative to the vehicle steering wheel 1 during a life phase of the vehicle steering wheel 1 before the operation of the safety module 2 (typically the safety module 2 is fixed relative to the vehicle steering wheel 1 when the vehicle is being driven). The safety module 2 notably comprises an airbag arranged to deploy, during a vehicle accident, towards a vehicle driver in order to protect him.In particular, an electronic control unit compares variations in vehicle speed continuously measured by. accelerometers arranged in the vehicle at acceleration values ​​representative of an accident. When the detected accelerations correspond to accelerations likely to be dangerous for a driver of the vehicle, the control unit commands operation of the safety module 2, and particularly the deployment of the airbag.

[0047] Figure 2 represents a sectional view of the vehicle steering wheel along the axis AA present in figure 1. It can be noted that the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10 comprises a frame 14 forming a carcass (for example made of injected metal alloy such as magnesium), covered with an overmolded material 15 (for example made of polymer, such as polyurethane). In order to perfect the appearance of the steering wheel, a decorative part 13 (for example made of polyamide, polycarbonate) is coupled to the steering wheel to define in the center, with the overmolded material 15, a well or a housing, at the hub 12. The decorative part 13 forms a periphery of the housing receiving the safety module 2.

[0048] The safety module 2 is housed in the central well or housing and during assembly or manufacture of the steering wheel, the safety module 2 is intended to be simply slid and / or pressed into the housing of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10. As will be explained below.

[0049] Figure 3 represents an isometric view of the security module 2, which includes in particular: - a cover 20, - a box 21, - a location interface 211 comprising location plans 2110 placed on side faces of the cover 20, - positioning counterforms 212, formed by inclined planes located on the side walls of the housing 21, - flexible retaining legs 213, here two in number, comprising retaining shapes 213A (holes) and extending downwardly in Figure 3 from the bottom of the housing 21, - pre-location indexes 214, here four in number and extending towards the bottom of figure 3 from the bottom of the housing 21.

[0050] Figure 4 shows a section of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 (i.e. the vehicle steering wheel without the safety module 2). The housing intended to receive the safety module 2 is notably formed by the frame 14 at the bottom, the overmolded material 15 on the sides and by the decorative part 13 in the upper part (which supports the horn control 3).

[0051] It can be seen that flexible positioning tabs 112 are provided on the sides of the housing, are anchored in the decorative piece 13 and comprise an inclined positioning shape 112A formed by a rim of the flexible positioning tabs 112 (the end is curved). The bottom of the housing is essentially formed by the frame 14 and comprises pre-location cavities 114 formed here by through holes. Between the two pre-location cavities 114 is a retaining counterform 113. The retaining counterform 113 is here a hook directly formed by the frame 14, made of a metal alloy (for example magnesium).

[0052] The safety module 2 is fixed to the vehicle steering wheel 1 (or to the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10) by a plurality of interfaces each arranged to block one or more degrees of freedom in translation. In detail, the device for fixing the safety module 2 comprises in particular: - a retaining snap-fastening portion ER (visible in FIG. 2), comprising the flexible retaining tabs 213 belonging to the safety module 2 coupled with the retaining counterforms 113 fixed relative to the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10, which is arranged to retain and block a translation along the z axis of the safety module 2, during the operation of security module 2, - a positioning snap-fastening portion EP (visible in FIG. 2), comprising the flexible positioning tabs 112 carried by the decorative part 13, and the positioning counterforms 212 carried by the safety module 2, which is arranged to press the safety module 2 onto the rest of the steering wheel (the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10), in particular along the z axis.

[0053] The positioning snap-in portion EP is provided to ensure positioning or fixing of the safety module 2 on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10 under normal living conditions (typically when the steering wheel is used to drive the vehicle). In particular, the positioning or fixing of the safety module 2 to the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10 under these normal conditions must guarantee aesthetic positioning, and in particular without play between the safety module 2 and the rest of the steering wheel (in particular the decorative part 13).

[0054] The retaining snap-fastening portion ER is provided for ensuring retention or fixing of the safety module 2 to the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10 under exceptional conditions of high stresses generated by the operation of the safety module 2 on the fixing device (in particular at the end of deployment of the airbag, it is necessary to retain the latter and the various members of the safety module 2 on the vehicle steering wheel 1).

[0055] In detail, and as shown in Figure 2, the positioning snap-in portion EP comprises at least one flexible tab 112 fixed or overmolded in or by the decorative part 13 and arranged to rest on the positioning counterform 212, according to a positioning plane inclined relative to the z axis. This inclination allows the security module 2 to be mounted and dismounted in a removable and / or reversible manner. Said at least one flexible tab 112 formed in this example by a metal part overmolded in or by the decorative part 13 can otherwise be screwed, riveted, riveted. It can also be provided to form it in plastic, for example in one piece with the decorative part 13 if the latter is made of polymer. The snap-fastening or the actuation of the positioning snap-fastening portion EP blocks a translation along the direction and the +z direction of the security module. However, it can be noted that the slight inclination of the positioning plane and the flexibility of the flexible positioning tabs 112 do not allow this coupling to completely block translations along the x or y axis: a slight displacement along the x or y axes is possible.

[0056] The retaining snap-fastening portion ER, for its part, comprises at least one flexible retaining tab 213 integral with or belonging to the safety module 2 coupled with at least one retaining counterform 113, formed here by a hook, formed for example in a single piece with the frame 14. Consequently, this retaining snap-fastening coupling is robust due to the dimensions and materials that are significantly more robust than those of the positioning snap-fastening portion EP. It may be noted that the parts of the retaining snap-fastening portion ER are designed to support and / or resist forces twice, five times or even ten times greater than the parts of the positioning snap-fastening portion EP. It may be noted in FIG. 2 that, in the z direction, there is a clearance between the retaining counterform 113 and the flexible retaining tab 213.According to this direction z, the retaining snap portion ER does not participate in the positioning of the safety module 2 during the normal life or use phase. In the event of deployment of the safety module, the plating force applied by the positioning snap portion EP will be exceeded, and it is then the retaining snap portion ER which will ensure the function of keeping the safety module 2 secured to the vehicle steering wheel 1.

[0057] To provide perfect positioning of the safety module 2 relative to the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 in the xy plane, the location interface 211 (visible in Figure 3) and the location planes 2110 (visible in Figures 3 and 2) provide centering of the safety module 2 in the housing of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10.

[0058] In particular, the location interface 211, in the form of at least one groove and / or at least one rib, is arranged to block translations along the x axis and the y axis. The location interface 211 comprises several location planes 2110 on the security module 2 and the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10, and on several faces of the security module 2 (visible in FIG. 3). In detail, the location planes 2110 are beveled faces of the ribs visible in FIG. 3, which gradually come into contact with lateral faces of the housing receiving the security module 2, formed in this example by an internal edge of the decorative part 13. However, it is possible to provide for contact on other parts, and / or at other locations to ensure blocking along the xy directions.

[0059] Consequently, the cover 20 is pressed against the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10 by the force imposed in z by the snap-fastening of the positioning snap-fastening portion EP, and positioned in xy by the location interface 211. There is thus a covering of the decorative part 13 by the cover 20, providing an attractive visual appearance, and blocking the security module 2 in the -z direction. In other words, the flexible positioning tabs 112 eliminate the vertical play in Z, and on the other hand, a slight lateral play in X / Y can be provided between the cover 20 and the decorative part 13. More particularly, a slight lateral play in X / Y can be provided between the cover 20 and, for example, a hollow imprint formed in the decorative part 13 and receiving the cover 20. A play of approximately 0.5 mm can be provided.

[0060] Furthermore, a pre-location interface comprising at least the pre-location indexes 214 carried by the security module 2 and the pre-location cavities 114, makes it possible to engage the security module 2 more quickly in the housing provided for this purpose in the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10. Indeed, due to the length of the pre-location indexes 214, it is understood that the latter engage in the pre-location cavities 114 before the activation and / or the snap-fastening of the positioning snap-fastening portion EP and / or the retaining snap-fastening portion ER. The assembly operation is thus facilitated.

[0061] The assembly of the safety module 2 to the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10 using the fixing device presented according to the following invention takes place in the following order: - the pre-location interface makes it possible to locate the correct position of the security module 2 in the housing of the vehicle steering wheel support structure 10. Once the pre-location indexes 214 are located opposite the pre-location cavities 114, the security module 2 can be slid into the housing, - the flexible retaining tabs 213 meet the retaining counterform 113. Under a pushing force exerted for example by the operator, the flexible retaining tabs 213 deform elastically towards the inside of the housing, that is to say they move closer to each other, until the retaining counterforms 113 slide into the retaining forms 213A and the flexible retaining tabs 213 release. - the safety module 2, under the effect of the play left by the retaining snap, can continue to be pushed into the housing along the -z axis. - the flexible positioning legs 112 are positioned on the positioning counterforms 212 and are deployed to move into the position shown in figure 2, - thus, the cover 20 is pressed against the decorative part 13, and centered in the housing, thanks to the contact of the location planes 2110 arranged on the safety module 2 on the side walls of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10.

[0062] It can be noted that at the end of the movement, the pushing force exerted by the operator allows for simultaneously: - release the flexible positioning legs 112 so that they buttress against the positioning counterforms 212, - bringing the location planes 2110 into contact with the side walls of the housing of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure 10. It can be understood that elastic deformations of the cover 20 and / or the side walls of the housing allow these simultaneous operations.

[0063] Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment in which, on the security module 2 side, the positioning snap-fastening portion and the retaining snap-fastening portion are formed by the same snap-fastening part 210 separate from the housing 21A of the security module 2. The snap-fastening part 210 fulfills the same functions as the flexible positioning tabs 112 and the flexible retaining tabs 213 of Figures 2 to 4. The snap-fastening part 210 comprises two flexible ends (210A and 210C), and a base portion 210B arranged between a positioning end 210A and a retaining end 210C.

[0064] Figure 6 shows a vehicle steering wheel comprising the safety module 2 of Figure 5. The positioning end 210A is engaged with an inclined plane of the steering wheel to exert a z-shaped plating force on the safety module 2, and the retaining end 210C is engaged with the hook of the frame to ensure retention of the safety module in the event of deployment of the safety module 2. In Figure 5, the snap-in part 210 separate from the housing 21A is riveted or riveted onto the housing 21A. However, it is possible to overmould it, i.e. to have a part embedded in the plastic of the housing 21A if the latter is made of polymer for example.

[0065] In Figures 5 and 6, we therefore have the positioning end 21 OA engaged with an inclined plane of the steering wheel to exert a z-shaped clamping force on the safety module 2. A dedicated flexible tab can be provided to ensure this function (and not including the retaining end 21 OC). Of course, several flexible tabs can be provided.

[0066] Figure 7 shows a variant of the vehicle steering wheel 1 of Figure 1, still provided with a vehicle steering wheel supporting structure, a safety module 2 and a horn control 3. In detail, the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure comprises a rim 11, a hub 12, branches connecting the rim 11 to the hub 12, and at least one decorative part 13.

[0067] The decorative part 13 is formed in this example by an overmolding material (for example polyurethane overmolded on a metal frame of the vehicle steering wheel 1), and forms a cavity for receiving the safety module 2 and a cavity for the horn control 3; alternatively, the horn can also be arranged on the cover 20. Provision can be made at least locally to cover the overmolding material with a flexible sheath (leather, a synthetic material, etc.), which then forms another decorative part 13 which can be joined with the overmolding material remaining visible.

[0068] The safety module 2 is fixed relative to the vehicle steering wheel 1 during a phase of life of the vehicle steering wheel 1 before the operation of the safety module 2 (typically the safety module 2 is fixed relative to the vehicle steering wheel 1 when driving the vehicle) thus the horn control 3 is a switch independent of any movement of the safety module 2. The safety module 2 is housed in the hub 12, the outer wall of the housing 21 can be seen in dotted lines under the cover 20.

[0069] In this example figure 7, the cover 20 is wider than in the variant of figure 1. In particular, the cover 20 covers the hub 12, but also part of the branches connecting the hub 12 to the rim 11 (which may be optional: a steering wheel without a rim may be provided, to be gripped by a peripheral edge). In any event, the cover 20 of Figure 7 covers a large part of the vehicle steering wheel 1, and in addition to the positioning snap-fastening portions arranged to exert on the safety module 2 a force for pressing the cover 20 onto the decorative part 13 and already described in Figures 2 to 6, secondary means for pressing the cover 20 onto the decorative part 13 may be provided.

[0070] In particular, two secondary plating anchors 312 arranged between the cover 20 and the supporting structure of the vehicle steering wheel can be distinguished in dotted lines. For example, clip-on studs, and / or snap-on pins, and / or fir-tree-shaped pins (with flexible ribs) can be provided which cooperate with a counterform to press the cover 20 against the decorative part 13 and guarantee an absence of play between these two parts over the entire periphery of the cover 20.

[0071] Of course, these secondary means of plating the cover 20 on the decorative part 13 (here the two secondary plating anchors 312) must allow coupling during the mounting of the safety module 2 on the vehicle steering wheel 1. Typically, during deployment of the safety cushion, the cover 20 can tear for example along a line opposite the housing 21 represented by the dotted line in Figure 7. Industrial application

[0072] A fixing device according to the present invention, and its manufacture, are capable of industrial application.

[0073] It will be understood that various modifications and / or improvements obvious to those skilled in the art may be made to the various embodiments of the invention described in the present description without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, it may be noted that the position and The assembly offered by the positioning and retaining snap-in portions may vary.

[0074] The decorative part 13 (here in figures 1 to 7) is a part facing the driver when driving the vehicle, and the cover 20 also faces the driver. It is also entirely possible for the safety module 2 to open via a lateral face of the hub 12 (a face located between the rim 11 and the attachment of the frame 14 on the steering column and visible for example in figure 4). In this case, the cover 20 and the decorative part 13 will be visible to the driver when looking at the steering wheel from above.

Claims

CLAIMS

1. Device for fixing a safety module (2) on a vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1), the safety module (2) comprising at least one cover (20) arranged to open and allow a safety cushion to pass through during operation of the safety module (2), the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) comprising a decorative part (13) visible to a user, the fixing device comprising: - a retaining snap-fastening portion, arranged to retain the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) during operation of the safety module (2), characterized in that the fixing device comprises a positioning snap-fastening portion arranged to exert on the safety module (2) a force for pressing the cover (20) onto the decorative part (13), during a life phase of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) before operation of the safety module (2).

2. A fixing device according to claim 1, wherein the retaining snap-fastening portion comprises at least one flexible retaining tab (213) arranged to provide elastic interlocking mounting of the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1).

3. A fastening device according to claim 2, wherein: - said at least one flexible retaining tab (213) comprises a retaining shape (213A) preferably formed by a hollow shape or a hole, and said at least one flexible retaining tab (213) is arranged on one of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1), - the other of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) comprises a retaining counterform (113) preferably formed by a protruding shape like a hook, arranged for mate with the retaining shape (213A) during an operation of mounting the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1).

4. A fastening device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the retaining snap-in portion comprises a flexible retaining strip, and wherein the retaining snap-in portion preferably comprises two identical flexible retaining strips.

5. Fixing device according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the positioning snap-fastening portion comprises at least one flexible positioning tab (112) arranged to provide elastic interlocking mounting of the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1).

6. A fastening device according to claim 5, wherein: - said at least one flexible positioning tab (112) comprises a positioning shape (112A) preferably formed by a flat or a rim, and said at least one flexible positioning tab (112) is arranged on one of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1), - the other of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) comprises a positioning counterform (212) preferably formed by a positioning plane preferably inclined relative to a mounting direction of the safety module (2) on the steering wheel, arranged to couple with the positioning form (112A) during an operation of mounting the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1).

7. Fixing device according to one of claims 5 or 6, comprising two positioning counterforms (212) formed by inclined and opposite positioning planes.

8. A fixing device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the positioning snap-fit portion comprises a flexible positioning strip, and wherein the positioning snap portion preferably comprises two identical flexible positioning strips.

9. Fastening device according to one of claims 1 to 8, in which the positioning snap-fastening portion is arranged to impose on the cover (20) of the security module (2) a fixed position relative to the decorative part (13) of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) during the life phase of the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) before operation of the security module (2).

10. Fastening device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, during an operation of mounting the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1), the retaining snap-in portion is arranged to engage or to be activated before the positioning snap-in portion.

11. Fixing device according to one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a location interface (211) arranged to block two degrees of freedom between the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1) and the safety module (2), in particular the location interface (211) is arranged to block two degrees of freedom in translation.

12. Fixing device according to one of claims 1 to 11, including a pre-localization interface with: - at least one pre-location index (214) arranged on one of the security module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1), - at least one pre-location cavity (114) arranged on the other of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1) and for receiving the pre-location index (214), wherein the pre-location interface is arranged to engage or to be activated before the retaining snap portion and the positioning snap portion during mounting of the safety module (2) on the vehicle steering wheel support structure (1).

13. A fastening device according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the retaining snap portion and the positioning snap portion are formed by a single snap piece (210).

14. A fastening device according to claim 13, wherein the snap piece (210) comprises: - a first flexible end (21 OA) forming one of the retaining snap-fastening portion and the positioning snap-fastening portion, - a second flexible end (21 OC) forming the other of the retaining snap-fastening portion and the positioning snap-fastening portion, - a base portion (210B) fixed to one of the safety module (2) and the vehicle steering wheel supporting structure (1), and arranged between the first flexible end (21 OA) and the second flexible end (21 OC).

15. Fastening device according to one of claims 1 to 14, in which the decorative part (13) comprises a bearing surface (114), and in which the cover (20) at least partially covers and contacts at least part of the bearing surface (114) under the effect of the pressing force.

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