Steering wheel with airbag for motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a steering wheel (20) for a motor vehicle; the steering wheel comprising: a central hub (24) with a display screen (26); two gripping portions (32) transversely spaced away from the central hub, said gripping portions extending vertically; a housing (34) in front of the display screen; a safety device with an airbag and an airbag inflation module in the housing. The steering wheel (20) further comprises an upper crossmember (42) connecting each gripping portion to the central hub (24); an upper flap (40) forming the upper crossmember and closing the housing (34); the housing extending into the upper crossmember so that the airbag is able to deploy from the upper crossmember (42). Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Steering wheel with airbag for motor vehicle

[0001] The invention relates to motor vehicle safety. The invention provides a steering wheel equipped with an airbag for motor vehicles. The invention provides a steering wheel equipped with an airbag behind a display screen for motor vehicles. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.

[0002] The steering system of a vehicle conventionally comprises a steering column mounted for rotation in a support, and a steering wheel mounted at the upper end of said column. The steering wheel surrounds a fixed central hub in which electrical components connected to the rest of the vehicle's electrical circuits are grouped.

[0003] The current trend is towards integrating an increasing number of electrical components into the central hub. These components are generally control devices, intended to be operated manually by the driver. These components enable, in particular, the control of functional vehicle components, such as the radio, cruise control, gearbox, or interfaces with the vehicle's navigation system. They also enable the operation of safety features, such as the inflatable or protective airbag.

[0004] According to another trend, the electrical components of the central hub are complemented by a display screen. This display screen presents information on the vehicle's operation, the environment, and entertainment functions. However, this display screen is located in the immediate vicinity of the inflatable balloon; this has consequences for its operation and, therefore, the level of safety it provides.

[0005] Document CN114194136B describes a driver's airbag device for a motor vehicle. The airbag device is configured to deploy from an area behind the steering wheel to an area in front of the steering wheel while avoiding an obstruction in the center of the steering wheel. The driver's airbag device comprises: an airbag housing located behind the steering wheel; and an airbag cushion housed within the airbag housing and configured to traverse a gap between the obstruction and the steering wheel rim, injecting gas into a forward deployment zone. A housing cover is coupled to the airbag housing to cover the airbag housing opening and is configured to rupture under the pressure of the airbag deployment to move the airbag housing forward of the steering wheel. A display screen provides entertainment and service information to the driver.

[0006] US patent 9193375B2 describes a motor vehicle steering device. The steering device has a steering wheel with a steering wheel rim and steering wheel spokes. The airbag module includes an airbag and an airbag inflator, and a molded plastic module cover. A display screen is housed behind a non-deployable window. The steering device has a substantially non-rotating hub element in which the screen is mounted. The airbag deploys from the rear of a deployable flap and extends between the non-rotating hub and the steering wheel rim, extending immediately to the side of the front of the device.

[0007] The invention aims to address at least one of the problems or drawbacks encountered in the prior art. In particular, the invention aims to optimize the safety of a motor vehicle. The invention also aims to optimize the safety and compactness of a motor vehicle steering wheel.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a steering wheel for a motor vehicle; the steering wheel comprising: a central hub with a display screen; two gripping portions transversely at a distance from the central hub, said gripping portions extending vertically and intended to be manipulated by a driver of the motor vehicle; a housing; a safety device with an airbag and an airbag inflation module in the housing; notable in that the steering wheel further comprises an upper cross member connecting each gripping portion to the central hub; an upper flap forming the upper cross member and closing the housing; the housing extending into the upper cross member so that the airbag is able to deploy from the upper cross member.

[0009] The invention allows an airbag to be deployed at the top of a steering wheel. The invention also eliminates the need for a rigid obstacle above the airbag deployment area. This improves safety. Furthermore, a steering wheel with an upper crossbar enhances visibility of the instrument panel.

[0010] Preferably, the upper flap comprises a first wall and a second wall extending under the first wall towards the display screen.

[0011] Preferably, the first wall comprises a first thickness, the second wall comprises a second thickness greater than the first thickness.

[0012] Preferably, the central hub includes a guide partition for the airbag, capable of deploying out of the housing when the airbag is inflated.

[0013] Preferably, the guide partition comprises a first portion and a second portion inclined relative to the first portion; said second portion being able to pivot during the inflation of the inflatable bag.

[0014] Preferably, the upper flap has a first transverse width, the central hub includes a second transverse width greater than the first transverse width.

[0015] Preferably, the display screen includes a third transverse width that is smaller than the first transverse width.

[0016] Preferably, the central hub includes a rear wall surrounding the display screen; the upper flap further includes a retaining hook cooperating with said rear wall, said retaining hook being adapted to release the upper flap during inflation of said airbag.

[0017] Preferably, the upper flap includes a lower edge, the retaining hook being formed at said lower edge and being arranged longitudinally at the level of the display screen.

[0018] Preferably, the upper flap includes lateral edges.

[0019] Preferably, the housing is above the display screen.

[0020] Preferably, the steering wheel further comprises a lower cross member connecting the gripping portions to the central hub; the gripping portions, the lower cross member and the upper cross member forming a rectangular frame around the central hub, the upper flap being vertically at a distance from the lower cross member.

[0021] Preferably, the upper flap includes a hinge in front of the display screen.

[0022] Preferably, the upper flap forms an upper protrusion on the upper cross member.

[0023] Preferably, the steering wheel comprises a vertex, the upper flap forming said vertex.

[0024] Preferably, the central hub has a front face and a rear face, with the display screen being on the rear face.

[0025] Preferably, the housing includes a background above the display screen.

[0026] Preferably, the airbag is configured to deploy longitudinally at the level of the upper cross member when the inflation module is triggered.

[0027] Preferably, the upper cross member forms an upper face of the steering wheel and is adjacent to the central hub.

[0028] Preferably, the upper cross member forms the top of the steering wheel.

[0029] Preferably, the upper cross member is straight.

[0030] Preferably, the guide partition is under the upper flap.

[0031] Preferably, in closed configuration the second portion extends forward from the first portion.

[0032] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a steering wheel for a vehicle The steering wheel comprises: a central hub with a display screen; two gripping portions transversely at a distance from the central hub, said gripping portions extending vertically and intended to be operated by a driver of the motor vehicle; a housing; a safety device with an airbag and an airbag inflation module in the housing; notable in that the steering wheel comprises an upper flap closing the housing, and the central hub comprises an airbag guide partition, arranged under the upper flap and capable of deploying out of the housing during airbag inflation; preferably, the guide partition comprises a first portion and a second portion inclined relative to the first portion; said second portion being capable of pivoting during airbag inflation. Such a steering wheel enhances safety.

[0033] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a steering wheel comprising a central means with a display screen on a rear face, a peripheral handle with a hoop surrounding the display screen; a safety device with an airbag and an airbag inflation module; a housing receiving the airbag, said housing being in front of the display screen; notable in that the peripheral handle includes a horizontal upper crossbar; the steering wheel further includes a flap covering the airbag and forming said arm in order to deploy the airbag from the upper crossbar.

[0034] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a motor vehicle comprising a steering wheel; remarkable in that the steering wheel conforms to the invention.

[0035] Preferably, the motor vehicle includes a driver's seat, the upper flap being longitudinally opposite said driver's seat.

[0036] Each feature introduced by the expression "preferably" given in relation to one of the aspects of the invention applies to all other aspects of the invention.

[0037] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will become clear upon reading the following description, given with reference to the attached figures listed below.

[0038] Fig. 1 is a side view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0039] Fig. 2 is a front view of a steering wheel of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0040] Fig. 3 is an isometric side view of a steering wheel of a motor vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention, the upper flap being in the open configuration.

[0041] Figure 4 shows in profile an inflatable bag deploying from a steering wheel. motor vehicle controll according to the first embodiment of the invention.

[0042] Figure 5 is a side view of a steering wheel of a motor vehicle according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0043] Figure 6 shows a profile view of an airbag deploying from a steering wheel. motor vehicle controll according to the second embodiment of the invention.

[0044] In the following description, the term "include" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it permits the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle or steering wheel to which it relates. It is understood that the term "include" includes the terms "consist of".

[0045] In this description, the terms "longitudinal," "longitudinally," "transverse," and "transversely" are used with respect to the vehicle's frame of reference in the mounting configuration. The term "longitudinal" refers to the principal direction of travel of the vehicle. The term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the principal direction of travel of the vehicle. The term "front" refers to the principal direction of travel of the vehicle. The term "rear" refers to the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0046] The X-axis represents the longitudinal direction, the Y-axis represents the transverse direction, and the Z-axis represents the vertical direction of the motor vehicle. These three axes define a right-handed trihedron.

[0047] In this description, the ranges of values ​​include the bounds that delimit them.

[0048] In this description, the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are not to be understood in their strict sense. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, and even more preferably at most 2°; with respect to the strict meaning of these terms.

[0049] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the steering wheel mounting configuration, unless otherwise explicitly stated.

[0050] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0051] Figure 1 represents a motor vehicle 10 according to the invention. The motor vehicle 10 comprises energy storage means and at least one motor (not shown) adapted to drive said motor vehicle 10.

[0052] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12. The structure 12 forms an outer body, or the main frame of the motor vehicle. The structure 12 delimits different compartments of the motor vehicle 10, including the passenger compartment, the cargo area, and the engine compartment (not re (shown). Structure 12 connects various parts of the motor vehicle 10, including the openings. Structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain, suspension systems, braking systems, and the steering system 14.

[0053] The steering system 14 further includes a control box 16. The control box is located around the steering column 18. The steering system 14 includes a rack connected to each front wheel via tie rods (not shown). The steering column 18 also includes a swivel joint for attachment to the structure 12.

[0054] The steering system 14 further includes a steering wheel 20 fixed to the steering column 18. It transmits rotational movements to the steering column and is optionally associated with a power steering module. The steering wheel 20 forms the control interface for the user. The steering wheel 20 faces a driver's seat 22. The driver's seat 22 is a front seat. It is located on one side of the motor vehicle 10.

[0055] The motor vehicle can, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle.

[0056] Figure 2 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to Figure 1.

[0057] The steering wheel 20 includes a central hub 24 housing a display screen 26. The display screen 26 is capable of displaying information concerning the operation of the motor vehicle. It may be a touchscreen, so that the driver can control certain parameters of the motor vehicle. It is connected to a central computer (not shown).

[0058] The steering wheel 20 also features various control interfaces in the form of buttons 28. The buttons 28 are arranged on the central hub 24, or on connecting arms 30 extending from the central hub 24. The connecting arms 30 are horizontal. The buttons 28 can receive a pressure pulse from the driver. Some buttons 28 are cross-shaped directional sliders.

[0059] The steering wheel 20 comprises two gripping portions 32. The gripping portions 32 form handles. They are transversely opposed with respect to the central hub 24. The connecting arms 30 link the gripping portions 32 to the central hub 24. The gripping portions 32 are free of buttons 28. The gripping portions 32 are intended to be operated by a driver of the motor vehicle. They extend primarily vertically. The gripping portions 32 are curved.

[0060] The steering wheel 20 includes a housing 34 in front of and above the display screen 26. The housing 34 accommodates a safety device 36 with an airbag and an airbag inflation module (not shown). An upper flap 40 covers the airbag and closes the housing 34. The housing 34 is in front of the display screen 26. The housing 34 is above the display screen 26, and preferably at a distance from the display screen 26.

[0061] The steering wheel 20 further includes an upper cross member 42. The upper cross member 42 forms a horizontal bar. It is straight. It creates a flat surface above the steering wheel 20, which frees up space for visibility of the instrument panel. The steering wheel 20 is compact. The upper cross member 42 forms the top of the steering wheel 20. The upper cross member 42 connects the central hub 24 to each gripping portion 32. The upper cross member 42 provides a bearing surface for the airbag when it is inflated.

[0062] The housing 34 extends into the upper cross member 42. It is hollow beneath the upper flap 40. The housing 34 extends vertically at the level of the upper cross member 42, and beneath it. The upper flap 40 locally forms the upper cross member 42 and delimits the housing 34. The upper flap 40 materializes the upper surface of the upper cross member 42. Thus, the airbag is able to deploy from the upper cross member 42. This feature allows the airbag to be positioned at the top of the upper cross member 42; and therefore at the top of the steering wheel 20.

[0063] The steering wheel 20 further comprises a lower cross member 44 connecting the gripping portions 32 to the central hub 24. The lower cross member 44 is parallel to the upper cross member 42. The gripping portions 32, the lower cross member 44, and the upper cross member 42 form a frame 46. This frame 46 is preferably rectangular. The frame 46 surrounds the central hub 24, the connecting arms 30, and thus the display screen 26. The upper flap 40 is vertically offset from the lower cross member 44. It forms the frame 46. The frame 46 forms a peripheral handle with a hoop surrounding the display screen.

[0064] The steering wheel 20 has several passages 80. The passages 80 run longitudinally through it. They form openings. The frame 46 surrounds the passages 80. The passages 80 are delimited by the central hub, the connecting arms 30, the gripping portions 32, and the crossbars. The upper flap 40 is set apart from the passages 80.

[0065] The upper flap 40 forms an upper protrusion 38 on the upper cross member 42. The upper protrusion 38 allows the housing 34 to be enlarged. The steering wheel 20 has an extended volume to accommodate the safety device 36. Thus, the housing extends above and below the upper cross member 42; therefore into the central hub 24.

[0066] Figure 3 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 2. The upper flap 40 is shown in the open position, moving away from the upper crossmember 42. The airbag is not shown for clarity.

[0067] The housing 34 is open, raised above the gripping portions 32. It has an upper opening which is covered, and therefore closed, by the upper flap 40 when it is in the closed position. The upper flap 40 comprises a first wall 48 and a second wall 50 extending towards the display screen 26. In the closed configuration, the first wall 48 is an upper wall, extending essentially horizontally; and the second wall 50 is a lower wall, extending essentially vertically. They may be curved.

[0068] The upper flap 40 has a first transverse width 52, and the central hub 24 includes a second transverse width 54 that is greater than the first transverse width 52. This feature optimizes compactness. It also improves the support of the airbag in the event of deployment. The display screen 26 includes a third transverse width 56 that is less than the second transverse width 54. The third transverse width 56 is less than the first transverse width 52. This feature increases the width of the opening available for the airbag. In general, the invention optimizes safety.

[0069] The transverse widths are average widths. They are measured when the steering wheel 20 is straight, i.e. in a neutral orientation in which the motor vehicle moves in a straight line.

[0070] The upper flap 40 includes a hinge 58 in front of the display screen 26. The hinge 58 includes, for example, a thinned line. It is also formed on the central hub 24. The hinge 58 is configured to resist the steering wheel 20 being pulled away when it is opened by the effect of a pyrotechnic charge from the inflation module. Such a pyrotechnic charge allows the airbag to deploy in a few milliseconds.

[0071] The display screen 26 is a liquid crystal display, commonly referred to by the acronym "LCD," which stands for Liquid Crystal Display. Such a screen limits energy consumption. The display screen 26 is generally rectangular, with a diagonal of at least 5 cm.

[0072] The steering wheel 20 includes a rear wall 60 surrounding the display screen 26. The rear wall 60 is formed on the upper cross member 42 and the central hub 24. The rear wall 60 extends vertically. It delimits the housing 34.

[0073] The upper flap 40 includes lateral edges 64. In the closed position, the lateral edges 64 fit snugly against the upper cross member 42. The lateral edges 64 project inside the upper flap 40. They laterally define the first wall 48 and the second wall 50. They contribute to reinforcing the upper flap 40.

[0074] Figure 4 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle during the deployment of its airbag 62, according to an embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3.

[0075] The upper flap 40 is movable between a closed position and an open position, which is forced open by the deployment of the airbag 62. This deployment is triggered by the inflation module. In the open position, the upper flap 40 rises. It moves forward and pivots forward around the hinge 58. It moves away from the gripping portions 32 and the housing 34. The airbag 62 forms a cushion. It includes a sealed, pressurizable outer casing.

[0076] The first wall 48 comprises a first thickness, the second wall 50 comprises a second thickness greater than the first thickness, preferably at least twice as thick. The first and second thicknesses are average thicknesses.

[0077] Figure 5 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle, according to a second embodiment of the invention. The steering wheel 20 is shown in an exploded view at the housing 34. The motor vehicle generally corresponds to the one shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 4. The upper cover 40 is shown in the closed position.

[0078] The steering wheel 20 according to the second embodiment is substantially identical to that of the first embodiment, however, it differs from it in that it also includes a guide partition 66. The guide partition 66 is under the upper flap 40. It is enveloped and covered by the upper flap 40.

[0079] The steering wheel 20 comprises: a central hub 24 with a display screen 26; two gripping portions 32 transversely spaced away from the central hub 24, said gripping portions extending vertically; a housing 34 in front of the display screen 26; a safety device 36 with an airbag and an airbag inflation module 68; an upper flap 40 closing the housing 34. The steering wheel 20 further comprises an upper cross member 42 connecting each gripping portion 32 to the central hub 24; an upper flap 40 forming the upper cross member 42 and delimiting the housing 34. The housing 34 extends into the upper cross member 42 so that the airbag can deploy from the upper cross member 42.

[0080] Thus, the airbag deploys from the top of the steering wheel 20 and does not encounter any overhead obstruction. Its kinematics are better controlled. Safety is enhanced.

[0081] The first wall 48 forms the summit, and the second wall 50 forms a section A vertical section extending from the first wall towards the display screen 26. The second wall 50 is generally flat. It faces the driver's seat (not shown). This configuration facing the driver's seat directs the airbag deployment towards the driver's seat.

[0082] The central hub 24 includes a rear end. The rear end receives the guide partition 66. The guide partition 66 is configured to deploy out of the housing 34 during inflation of the airbag, in particular simultaneously with the upper flap 40. In the closed configuration, the upper flap 40 and the guide partition 66 define the housing 34. They overlap. They form the upper cross member 42.

[0083] Housing 34 includes a base above the display screen 26. This prevents damage to the display screen 26 in the event of activation of the inflation module 68.

[0084] Figure 6 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle, according to a second embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle generally corresponds to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 5. The airbag 62 is shown at the beginning of inflation. The airbag 62 deploys from the housing 34 by pushing the upper flap 40 and the guide partition 66 in opposite directions.

[0085] The guide partition 66 comprises a first portion 70 and a second portion 72 inclined relative to the first portion 70. The second portion 72 forms the apex of the guide partition 66. The second portion 72 is capable of pivoting backward during the inflation of the airbag 62, under the action of the inflation module 68. The guide partition 66 optionally comprises a third portion 74. The third portion 74 is a fastening portion. It is fixed to the floor of the housing 34. The third portion 74 is located below the safety device 36, which stabilizes the guide partition 66 during the deployment of the airbag 62.

[0086] In its closed configuration, the second portion 72 covers the airbag 62 and forms a baffle that directs the deployment upwards. The second portion 72 extends forwards from the first portion 70. However, under the effect of the increasing pressure, the inflation module 68 causes the airbag 62 to push against the second portion 72, causing it to tilt. Consequently, the airbag 62 deploys rearward, thus towards the driver for their safety.

[0087] The guide partition 66 comprises polypropylene. It has a thickness of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm. These properties optimize its flexibility and its ability to guide the inflatable bag 62.

[0088] The upper flap 40 has a variable thickness. The first wall 48 comprises a first thickness, and the second wall 50 comprises a second thickness greater than the first thickness. Thus, the second wall 50 is stiffened, which improves its stability. For example, the second thickness is at least twice as thick. superior to the first layer.

[0089] The central hub 24 comprises a housing with a rear wall 60 surrounding the display screen. The upper flap 40 further comprises a retaining hook 76 for holding it in the closed position. The retaining hook 76 is formed on the inner face of the upper flap 40, in particular from the second wall 50.

[0090] In the closed position, the retaining hook 76 cooperates with the rear wall 60. When the safety device 36 is triggered, the retaining hook 76 detaches and releases the upper flap 40 to initiate the inflation of the inflatable bag 62.

[0091] The upper flap 40 includes a lower edge 78, the lower aspect being considered in the closed configuration. The lower edge 78 is a free edge. It is opposite the hinge 58. The retaining hook 76 is arranged at the level of said lower edge 78. In the closed configuration, the retaining hook 76 is arranged longitudinally at the level of the display screen 26.

[0092] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper flap 40 is made of a plastic or composite material. The plastic material may include a thermoplastic or thermosetting material. According to a preferred embodiment, the plastic material is selected from the group comprising polypropylene, polyamide, polyphthalamide, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyamide-imide, polyetherimide, polyarylamide, polyepoxide, unsaturated polyester, vinyl ester, or polyester-vinylester resins. For example, the composite material comprises a matrix of a plastic material as described above with reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement comprises glass or carbon fibers.

[0093] The upper section comprises at least 10% by weight of recycled plastic material based on the total weight of the plastic material; preferably from 10 to 80% by weight; more preferably from 20 to 60% by weight or from 30 to 40% by weight. The use of recycled plastic material reduces the vehicle's environmental footprint.

[0094] The detailed characteristics in relation to one embodiment also apply to each other embodiment, unless otherwise specified.

[0095] The invention comprises the combination of all the embodiments illustrated by all the figures.

[0096] Figures 2 to 6 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Demands

1. Steering wheel (20) of a motor vehicle (10); the steering wheel (20) comprising: a central hub (24) with a display screen (26); two gripping portions (32) transversely spaced away from the central hub (24), said gripping portions (32) extending vertically and intended to be operated by a driver of the motor vehicle (10); a housing (34); a safety device (36) with an airbag (62) and an inflation module (68) for the airbag (62) in the housing (34); characterized in that the steering wheel (20) further comprises an upper crossbar (42) connecting each gripping portion (32) to the central hub (24); an upper flap (40) forming the upper crossbar (42) and closing the housing (34); the housing (34) extending into the upper cross member (42) so that the inflatable bag (62) is able to deploy from the upper cross member (42).

2. Steering wheel (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that the upper flap (40) comprises a first wall (48) and a second wall (50) extending under the first wall (48) towards the display screen (26); preferably, the first wall (48) comprises a first thickness, the second wall (50) comprises a second thickness greater than the first thickness.

3. Steering wheel (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the central hub (24) includes a guide partition (66) for the airbag (62), capable of deploying out of the housing (34) when the airbag (62) is inflated.

4. Steering wheel (20) according to claim 3, characterized in that the guide partition (66) comprises a first portion (70) and a second portion (72) inclined with respect to the first portion (70); said second portion (72) being able to pivot during the inflation of the airbag (62).

5. Steering wheel (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the upper flap (40) has a first transverse width (52), the central hub (24) includes a second transverse width (54) greater than the first transverse width (52); preferably, the display screen (26) includes a third transverse width (56) less than the first transverse width (52).

6. Steering wheel (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the central hub (24) includes a rear wall (60) surrounding the display screen (26); the upper flap (40) further including a retaining hook (76) cooperating with said rear wall (60), said retaining hook (76) being adapted to release the upper flap (40) during inflation of said airbag (62); preferably, the upper flap (40) includes a lower edge (78), the retaining hook (76) being formed at said lower edge (78) and being arranged longitudinally at the level of the display screen (26).

7. Steering wheel (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the upper flap (40) includes lateral edges (64); preferably, the housing (34) is above the display screen (26).

8. Steering wheel (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the steering wheel (20) further comprises a lower cross member (44) connecting the gripping portions (32) to the central hub (24); the gripping portions (32), the lower cross member (44) and the upper cross member (42) forming a rectangular frame (46) around the central hub (24), the upper flap (40) being vertically spaced away from the lower cross member (44).

9. Steering wheel (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the upper flap (40) includes a hinge (58) in front of the display screen (26); and / or the upper flap (40) forms an upper protrusion (38) on the upper cross member (42).

10. Motor vehicle (10) comprising a steering wheel (20); characterized in that the steering wheel (20) conforms to any one of claims 1 to 9; preferably, the motor vehicle (10) comprises a driver's seat (22), the upper flap (40) being longitudinally opposite said driver's seat (22).

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