Electrode device and steering wheel

Abstract

The present invention provides an electrode device, etc., that can suppress both a decline in the aesthetic appeal of the steering wheel and a decline in the accuracy of detecting biological information. [Solution] The electrode devices 3 to 3e are arranged so as to be partially exposed from the surface of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g mounted on the vehicle 1, and each electrode device 3 to 3e comprises an electrode 32, a base 31 on which the electrode 32 is arranged, and an outer casing arranged on the base 31 to support the electrode 32. The base 31 or the outer casing has an engaging portion 35 for engaging with the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g, and the electrode 32 is exposed from the outer casing so as to form a part of the outer surface of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g when the electrode devices 3 to 3e are arranged on the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electrode device and a steering wheel.

Background Art

[0002] As a prior art, a conductive rubber strip for measuring the heartbeat signal of a driver during driving from an electrode provided on the steering of a vehicle is known. [

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a conductive rubber strip that can be used as a biometric detection electrode. The conductive rubber strip is formed of a conductive base fabric and has a conductive base fabric layer having a first conductive base fabric surface and a conductive rubber layer formed by laminating conductive rubber on the first conductive base fabric surface.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document No. 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, when the conductive rubber strip of Patent Document 1 is mounted on the rim of a steering wheel, a configuration in which the conductive rubber strip is sewn with sewing thread on the surface of a steering cover wound around the rim can be considered. When a driver grips the steering wheel, since the conductive rubber strip and the sewing thread are arranged on the surface of the steering cover, there are problems such as a decrease in the design property of the steering wheel and a decrease in the detection accuracy of biometric information due to the inhibition of hand contact with the conductive rubber strip by being caught on the sewing thread.

[0006] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an electrode device, etc., that can suppress both a decrease in the aesthetic design of the steering wheel and a decrease in the accuracy of detecting biological information. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An electrode device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an electrode device arranged such that a portion of it is exposed from the surface of a steering wheel mounted on a vehicle, comprising an electrode, a base on which the electrode is arranged, and an outer casing arranged on the base to support the electrode, wherein the base or the outer casing has an engaging portion for engaging with the steering wheel, the outer casing forms a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the steering wheel when the electrode device is arranged on the steering wheel, and the electrode is exposed from the outer casing so as to form a portion of the outer circumferential surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The electrode device and the like of this disclosure can suppress both a decrease in the aesthetic appeal of the steering wheel and a decrease in the accuracy of detecting biological information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a vehicle equipped with a steering wheel according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the steering wheel along line AA in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing how an electrode device is attached to a recess in a steering wheel according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the disassembled electrode device. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a plan view showing the surface of the electrode device. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view showing the back surface of the electrode device. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel having an electrode device with laminated surface material. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an electrode device in which electrodes and wiring are directly connected. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a plan view showing the back surface of the electrode device shown in Figure 8. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel having an electrode device in which the engaging portion engages with a core metal. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a plan view showing the back surface of the electrode device shown in Figure 10. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing another steering wheel having an electrode device in which the engaging portion engages with a core metal. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing yet another steering wheel having an electrode device in which the engaging portion engages with a core metal. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel with an electrode device located on the front side of the vehicle. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel with an electrode device located on the rear side of the vehicle. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows the range of electrodes placed on the rim in the neutral position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] The embodiments described below are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions of components, and connection configurations shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Furthermore, any components in the following embodiments that are not described in an independent claim will be described as optional components.

[0012] Also, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily drawn precisely. Also, in each figure, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components.

[0013] Also, in the following embodiments, expressions such as T-shaped are used. For example, the T-shaped not only means being completely T-shaped, but also means being substantially T-shaped, that is, including an error of about several percent. Also, the T-shaped means T-shaped within the range where the effects according to the present disclosure can be achieved. The same applies to cases where there are other expressions using "shape".

[0014] (Embodiment) <Configuration> First, the steering wheel 2 provided in the vehicle 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a vehicle 1 on which the steering wheel 2 according to the embodiment is mounted. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the steering wheel 2 along the line A-A in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where the electrode device 3 is attached to the concave portion 21 of the steering wheel 2 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the disassembled electrode device 3. In FIG. 4, a state before the connector 39 electrically connects the electrode 32 to the circuit board 36 is shown. FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the front surface of the electrode device 3. FIG. 6 is a plan view showing the back surface of the electrode device 3.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the steering wheel 2 can give a steering angle to the steering wheel of the vehicle 1. The steering wheel 2 has a rim 20, spokes 30, a hub 29, an electrode device 3, and a control unit 40.

[0017] [[ID=第24]]The rim 20 is a grip portion for a driver (person) to hold with their hand. The rim 20 in FIG. 1 exemplifies a ring type. Note that the rim 20 is not limited to the ring type and may be an irregular type such as a yoke type, a D type, an elliptical type, or the like.

[0018] As shown in Figure 2, the rim 20 is composed of a core metal 23, a foam 24 covering the core metal 23, and a surface material 25 covering the foam 24.

[0019] The foam 24 constitutes the outer shell of the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2. The foam 24 is made of a urethane resin material such as polyurethane. The foam 24 has a core metal 23 embedded in it.

[0020] The surface material 25 is in the form of a long sheet along the circumferential direction of the rim 20 and covers the foam 24. Since the steering wheel 2 has recesses 21 formed therein, the surface material 25 covers the foam 24 except for the recesses 21.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the spokes 30 are support members for connecting the rim 20 and the hub 29. The spokes 30 are composed of a core metal 23 and a foam 24 covering the core metal 23. The spokes 30 are positioned on the inner circumferential surface of the rim 20. The spokes 30 are connected to the rim 20 and form a T-shape integrally with the rim 20.

[0022] Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, when the rim 20 is in the neutral position and the rim 20 is considered as a clock face, the spoke 30 on the right side extends from the hub 29 towards the 3 o'clock position, the spoke 30 on the left side extends from the hub 29 towards the 9 o'clock position, and the spoke 30 on the lower side extends from the hub 29 towards the 6 o'clock position.

[0023] The hub 29 is a component that transmits the rotational force caused by the operation of the rim 20 to the steering shaft, and is located in the central part of the steering wheel 2.

[0024] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the electrode device 3 is positioned in a recess 21 formed on the surface of the steering wheel 2 of the vehicle 1, such that a portion of it is exposed from the surface of the steering wheel 2. In other words, the electrode device 3 is attached to the recess 21 formed in the rim 20 so as to fill the recess 21 formed in the rim 20. The electrode device 3 is detachable from the rim 20.

[0025] The recess 21 is a long groove formed along the circumferential direction of the rim 20. Because the recess 21 is a long groove, the electrode device 3 is also elongated in proportion to the recess 21.

[0026] The recesses 21 are formed on the right and left sides of the rim 20 when the rim 20 is viewed from the front in its neutral position. When the rim 20 is viewed from the front in its neutral position, the recesses 21 are formed in the range from approximately 2 o'clock to 4 o'clock and from approximately 8 o'clock to 10 o'clock on the rim 20. This corresponds to the preferred hand contact position on the rim 20. Note that the right side or left side of the rim 20 when the rim 20 is viewed from the front in its neutral position is sometimes simply referred to as the right side or left side of the rim 20.

[0027] The recess 21 is formed on the outermost circumference of the steering wheel 2. Therefore, the electrode device 3 mounted in the recess 21 is positioned on the outermost circumference of the steering wheel 2.

[0028] The electrode device 3 can detect the driver's biometric information when the driver grips the steering wheel 2 with their hand. The driver's biometric information includes information indicating the driver's heart rate when in contact with the steering wheel 2, information indicating the driver's sweating state when in contact with the steering wheel 2, and information indicating whether or not the driver is in contact with the steering wheel 2.

[0029] Next, we will describe the specific configuration of the electrode device 3.

[0030] The electrode device 3 comprises a base 31, an electrode 32, and a cover 33.

[0031] The base 31 is a support for positioning the electrode 32. The base 31 is elongated along the circumferential direction of the rim 20.

[0032] The base 31 has a base body 31a and an electrode support portion 31b.

[0033] The base body 31a is a support for arranging the cover 33 and the electrode support portion 31b. The base body 31a is elongated along the circumferential direction of the rim 20. In this embodiment, when the electrode device 3 is cut in a plane perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the rim 20, the base body 31a has a V-shape or a curved U-shape in the central part in the shorter direction.

[0034] The electrode support portion 31b is a support for positioning the electrode 32. The electrode support portion 31b is elongated along the longitudinal direction of the base body 31a and is a convex body positioned to protrude from the surface of the base body 31a. In this embodiment, the electrode support portion 31b is a semicircular convex body when viewed in cross-section of the electrode device 3.

[0035] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, the base body 31a has a first engagement hole 31a1 for engaging with the electrode support portion 31b. The electrode support portion 31b has a first engagement projection 31b1 for engaging with the first engagement hole 31a1. Therefore, when the first engagement hole 31a1 and the first engagement projection 31b1 engage, the electrode support portion 31b is positioned on the surface of the base body 31a as a convex body. In this embodiment, a pair of electrode support portions 31b are arranged on the surface of the base body 31a.

[0036] The cover 33 is an exterior part that covers the base 31. The cover 33 is made of a resin material or the like, but it may be made of a different material than the surface material 25. The cover 33 is elongated along the longitudinal direction of the base body 31a.

[0037] The cover 33 is positioned on the base 31 to support the electrode 32. Specifically, the cover 33 is laminated on the surface of the base body 31a and positioned on the surface of the base body 31a. The base body 31a further has a second engagement hole 31a3 formed therein for engaging with the cover 33. The cover 33 has a second engagement projection 33b for engaging with the second engagement hole 31a3. As a result of the engagement between the second engagement hole 31a3 and the second engagement projection 33b, the electrode support portion 31b is positioned on the surface of the base body 31a as a convex body. The cover 33 may be an example of an outer casing.

[0038] The cover 33 forms part of the outer surface of the steering wheel 2 when the electrode device 3 is positioned in the recess 21. In other words, the cover 33 is positioned so that the outer surface of the steering wheel 2 and the surface of the cover 33 of the electrode device 3 are flush. As a result, when the driver grips the steering wheel 2, it is less likely to cause the driver any discomfort due to the boundary between the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2 and the electrode device 3.

[0039] The cover 33 has a slit 33a formed in it for exposing the electrode 32. The slit 33a is formed in the cover 33 to be in a position and size corresponding to the electrode 32 and the electrode support portion 31b. The slit 33a is formed in the cover 33 so as to extend from about 2 o'clock to about 4 o'clock on the rim 20, and also so as to extend from about 8 o'clock to about 10 o'clock.

[0040] The electrode 32 and the electrode support portion 31b are positioned in the slit 33a with the electrode 32 inserted. In other words, the electrode 32 is positioned in the slit 33a sandwiched between the cover 33 and the electrode support portion 31b. This allows the electrode 32 to be supported in the slit 33a so that it does not detach from the electrode support portion 31b.

[0041] In particular, the slit 33a is formed according to the size and shape of the electrode 32 and the electrode support portion 31b. Therefore, when viewing a cross-section of the electrode device 3, the slit 33a is formed to narrow in the direction normal to the surface of the base body 31a. As a result, the cover 33 can support the electrode 32 so that it does not peel off from the electrode support portion 31b.

[0042] In this embodiment, a pair of electrodes 32 and a pair of electrode support portions 31b are arranged on the base body 31a. For this reason, the cover 33 has a pair of slits 33a that correspond one-to-one with the pair of electrodes 32 and also one-to-one with the pair of electrode support portions 31b.

[0043] The electrode 32 is a sensor electrode for detecting the driver's biological information when the driver grips the steering wheel 2 with their hand and the driver makes contact with the steering wheel 2. The electrode 32 is elongated along the longitudinal direction of the electrode support portion 31b.

[0044] The electrode 32 is laminated on the electrode support portion 31b of the base 31 and positioned on the surface of the electrode support portion 31b. The electrode 32 is exposed from the cover 33 so as to form a part of the outer peripheral surface of the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2. In other words, a part of the electrode 32 is exposed from the cover 33 through a slit 33a formed in the cover 33. In this embodiment, the electrode 32 is exposed from the cover 33 so as to be flush with the outer peripheral surface of the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2. In other words, the electrode 32 is exposed from the cover 33 through a slit 33a formed in the cover 33. For example, in this embodiment, a step of less than 1 mm is referred to as being flush.

[0045] The electrode 32 is electrically connected to the circuit board 36 located on the back side of the base body 31a via the base body 31a. In this embodiment, the electrode 32 is electrically connected to the circuit board 36 by a connector 39 such as a rivet or conductive adhesive.

[0046] Specifically, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the base body 31a has an insertion hole 31a2 through which the electrode 32 is inserted. A portion of the electrode 32 extends from the surface of the electrode support portion 31b through the insertion hole 31a2 to the back surface of the base body 31a, and is electrically connected to a circuit board 36 located on the back surface of the base body 31a.

[0047] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the circuit board 36 is electrically connected to the wiring 38 located inside the steering wheel 2, and therefore the electrode 32 is electrically connected to the wiring 38 via the circuit board 36. The wiring 38 electrically connects the circuit board 36 to the control unit 40.

[0048] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, since the electrode device 3 has a pair of electrodes 32, a partition plate 31d is formed on the back surface of the base body 31a, positioned between the pair of electrodes 32 so that the pair of electrodes 32 that reach the back surface of the base body 31a do not come into contact with each other.

[0049] The electrode 32 has a conductive layer 32a made of a conductive elastomer or a metal plate. The electrode 32 may further have a conductive base fabric 32b. In this case, when the conductive layer 32a and the conductive base fabric 32b are arranged on the surface of the electrode support portion 31b, the conductive base fabric 32b is laminated on the surface of the electrode support portion 31b, and the conductive layer 32a is arranged on the surface of the conductive base fabric 32b opposite to the electrode support portion 31b side. For this reason, the conductive layer 32a is arranged so that a portion of it is exposed from the slit 33a of the cover 33. This embodiment illustrates the case in which the electrode 32 has a conductive layer 32a and a conductive base fabric 32b.

[0050] In this embodiment, a pair of electrodes 32 are arranged on the surface of a pair of electrode support portions 31b in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0051] The pair of electrodes 32 extend along the direction in which the electrode support portion 31b extends, but are arranged adjacent to each other so as not to touch each other. Here, "arranged adjacent to each other" means that, for example, when the driver touches the steering wheel 2 with their hand, the width between the pair of electrodes 32 is narrower than the thickness of the driver's finger so that the finger touches the pair of electrodes 32.

[0052] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the electrode device 3 is located on the outermost periphery of the rim 20, so the pair of electrodes 32 are arranged on the rim 20 such that the outermost periphery of the rim 20 passes between the pair of electrodes 32. One of the pair of electrodes 32 is located on the front side of the vehicle 1, and the other electrode 32 is located on the rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0053] The base 31 or cover 33 has an engaging portion 35 for engaging with the steering wheel 2. In this embodiment, an engaging portion 35 formed on the base 31 is illustrated. The engaging portion 35 is oriented in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction of the rim 20 and extends toward the hub 29 of the steering wheel 2. The engaging portion 35 is, for example, a hook-shaped hook that engages with an engaged portion 22 formed in a recess 21.

[0054] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 6, the electrode device 3 may also have a circuit board 36.

[0055] The circuit board 36 may be positioned so as to overlap the base body 31a. The circuit board 36 may be supported by a support portion 31c located on the back surface of the base body 31a. The support portion 31c may protrude from the back surface of the base body 31a toward the core metal 23.

[0056] A pair of electrodes 32 are arranged on the surface of the circuit board 36, and the circuit board 36 may be electrically connected to the pair of electrodes 32 by a connector 39. A terminal 37 is arranged on the back surface of the circuit board 36, and the terminal 37 may be electrically connected to the terminal 38a of a pair of wires 38 arranged inside the steering wheel 2. The pair of wires 38 are bundled together, and a terminal 38a is provided at the end of each bundle. One of the wires 38 is electrically connected to one electrode 32 via terminals 38a and 37, and the other wire 38 is electrically connected to the other electrode 32 via terminals 38a and 37.

[0057] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the steering wheel 2 may have a control unit 40. The control unit 40 may detect the driver's heart rate, sweating status, etc., based on the biological information detected by the electrodes 32.

[0058] For example, one electrode 32 located on the right or left side of the rim 20 may be used as a heart rate detection electrode, and the other electrode 32 located on the right or left side of the rim 20 may be used as a reference electrode. Alternatively, one electrode 32 located on the left or right side of the rim 20 may be used as a heart rate and sweat detection electrode, and the other electrode 32 located on the left or right side of the rim 20 may be used as a sweat detection electrode.

[0059] In this case, the control unit 40 may have a heart rate detection circuit, a sweat detection circuit, and a grip detection circuit.

[0060] The heart rate detection circuit is a heart rate monitor that detects the driver's heart rate when the driver's hands make contact with the steering wheel 2. The heart rate detection circuit can obtain information indicating the driver's heart rate by detecting the driver's heart rate based on the signals output from the heart rate detection electrode, the heart rate sweat detection electrode, and the reference electrode. The heart rate detection circuit may also display information indicating the driver's heart rate on an in-vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle 1.

[0061] The sweat detection circuit is a sweat detector that can detect the sweating state of the driver's hands when the driver's hands come into contact with the steering wheel 2. The sweat detection circuit can detect the sweating state of the driver's hands by receiving sweat signals output by sweat detection electrodes and heart rate sweat detection electrodes. The sweat detection circuit can display information indicating the driver's sweating state on an in-vehicle monitor installed in the vehicle 1.

[0062] With such a control unit 40, it becomes possible to estimate the driver's emotions from the driver's heart rate and sweating state. The ECU (Electronic Control Unit) installed in the vehicle 1 can control the in-vehicle equipment installed in the vehicle 1 based on the driver's emotions estimated by the control unit 40. The in-vehicle equipment includes, for example, an in-vehicle air conditioning system, an in-vehicle sound system, and an in-vehicle lighting system. Such a control unit 40 and electrode device 3 may constitute a measurement system mounted on the steering wheel 2.

[0063] The grip detection circuit may also be a grip detector that detects contact between the driver's hand and the electrode device 3 based on a detection signal output from the electrode 32. In this case, the electrode 32 also functions as a grip detection electrode, and the grip detection circuit may detect whether or not the driver's hand is in contact with the electrode device 3 by the change in capacitance between the driver's hand and the grip detection electrode. Furthermore, the grip detection circuit may detect the contact position of the driver's hand by using multiple grip detection electrodes. The grip detection circuit can display on an in-vehicle monitor mounted in the vehicle 1 that the driver's hand is not in contact with the steering wheel 2.

[0064] Although the electrode device 3 is detachable from the recess 21 of the rim 20, when the electrode device 3 is inserted into the recess 21 of the rim 20, the terminal 37 of the circuit board 36 is electrically connected to the terminal 38a of the wiring 38, and the engaging portion 35 engages with the engaged portion 22 of the recess 21. In this way, the electrode device 3 is attached to the rim 20.

[0065] In the above description, an electrode device 3 in which a cover 33 is laminated on a base 31 was illustrated, but this embodiment is not limited to this. As shown in Figure 7, a surface material 25a may be further laminated on the cover 33. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel 2a having an electrode device 3a with a surface material 25a laminated on it.

[0066] The outer surface of the steering wheel 2a is formed by a surface material 25, but the cover 33 of the electrode device 3a may also have a surface material 25a laminated on it. The surface materials 25 and 25a are, for example, resin material, leather, etc.

[0067] In this case, in order to detect the driver's biological information, the electrode 32 is exposed from the surface material 25a so as to form a part of the outer surface of the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2a. In this embodiment, a portion of the electrode 32 is exposed from the surface material 25a. This makes it possible to make the outer surface of the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2a and the outer surface of the electrode device 3a the same material. Therefore, when the driver grips the steering wheel 2a, it is less likely to cause discomfort to the driver.

[0068] The skin material 25 wrapped around the steering wheel 2a may be integrally formed with the skin material 25a laminated on the cover 33 of the electrode device 3a, or they may be separate. In the electrode device 3a, a laminated structure combining the skin material 25a and the cover 33 may be an example of an exterior body. In this embodiment, however, the cover 33 may not be provided, and only the skin material 25a may be laminated on the base 31. In this case, the skin material 25a may be an example of an exterior body. Furthermore, in this case, the skin material 25a differs from the base 31 only in material, and the function of the skin material 25a is the same as that of the cover 33.

[0069] In the above description, an example was given in which the electrode device 3 etc. has a circuit board 36, but this embodiment is not limited to this. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the electrode device 3b does not have to have the circuit board described above. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrode device 3b in which the electrode 32 and the wiring 38 are directly connected. Figure 9 is a plan view showing the back surface of the electrode device 3b in Figure 8.

[0070] In this case, the electrode 32 may be electrically connected to the wiring 36h by the connector 39. The wiring 36h electrically connects the electrode 32 to the terminal 37.

[0071] The above example illustrates a case where the engaging portion 35 engages with a recess 21 in the steering wheel 2, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, the engaging portion 35 may engage with the core metal 23 of the steering wheels 2c to 2e. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel 2c having an electrode device 3c in which the engaging portion 35 engages with the core metal 23. Figure 11 is a plan view showing the back surface of the electrode device 3c in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing another steering wheel 2d having an electrode device 3d in which the engaging portion 35 engages with the core metal 23. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing yet another steering wheel 2e having an electrode device 3e in which the engaging portion 35 engages with the core metal 23.

[0072] In this case, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the electrode device 3c may have a pair of engaging portions 35.

[0073] Specifically, the core metal 23 may have an inner circumference portion 23a connected to the spoke 30, an outer circumference portion 23b positioned on the outer circumference of the inner circumference portion 23a, and a connecting portion 23c connecting the inner circumference portion 23a and the outer circumference portion 23b. The core metal 23 may have a U-shaped cross-section with respect to the inner circumference portion 23a, the outer circumference portion 23b, and the connecting portion 23c. The pair of engaging portions 35 may be arranged in the short-side direction of the electrode device 3c so as to sandwich the core metal 23. In this case, one of the pair of engaging portions 35 may engage with the inner circumference portion 23a of the core metal 23, and the other of the pair of engaging portions 35 may engage with the connecting portion 23c of the core metal 23.

[0074] Furthermore, in the electrode device 3d shown in Figure 12, one of the pair of engaging portions 35 may be engaged with the outer circumference 23b of the core metal 23, and the other of the pair of engaging portions 35 may be engaged with the connecting portion 23c of the core metal 23.

[0075] The engagement between the other engaging portion 35 and the connecting portion 23c of the core metal 23 may be achieved simply by the other engaging portion 35 being hooked onto the connecting portion 23c.

[0076] Furthermore, in the electrode device 3e shown in Figure 13, the engagement between the other engaging portion 35 and the connecting portion 23c of the core metal 23 may be achieved by fastening members 27 such as screws, which can fix the other engaging portion 35 to the connecting portion 23c.

[0077] In this configuration, the electrode devices 3c to 3e do not need to have a circuit board. In this case, one of the pair of wires 38 is located inside the steering wheels 2c to 2d on the front side of the vehicle 1, and the other of the pair of wires 38 is located inside the steering wheels 2c to 2d on the rear side of the vehicle 1. A terminal 38a provided at the end of one of the wires 38 is electrically connected to one electrode 32 by a connector 39. A terminal 38a provided at the end of the other wire 38 is electrically connected to the other electrode 32 by a connector 39. The connection portion between the terminal 38a of the wires 38 connected by the connector 39 and the wire 38 is covered by a protective tube 28.

[0078] For example, taking Figure 10 as an example, when obtaining a steering wheel 2c, first, the electrode device 3c is connected to the core metal 23. At this time, one of the pair of engaging parts 35 engages with the inner circumference 23a of the core metal 23, and the other of the pair of engaging parts 35 engages with the connecting part 23c of the core metal 23. Furthermore, the support part 31c of the base body 31a extends toward the core metal 23 and abuts against the core metal 23. This makes it possible to obtain an assembly structure of the core metal 23 and the electrode device 3c assembled to the core metal 23. Next, by foam molding of urethane onto the assembly structure, a foam body 24 is formed around the core metal 23, and recesses 21 excluding the electrode device 3c are formed in the foam body 24. Then, by wrapping the surface material 25 around the foam body 24, the steering wheel 2c can be obtained.

[0079] In the above description, an example was given in which the electrode device 3, etc., is arranged on the outermost circumference of the rim 20, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 14, the recess 21 may be formed on the front side of the steering wheel 2f relative to the vehicle 1. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel 2f having an electrode device 3 arranged on the front side of the vehicle 1.

[0080] In this case, the electrode device 3 mounted in the recess 21 will be positioned on the front side of the steering wheel 2f relative to the vehicle 1. In this case, the pair of electrodes 32 are positioned on the steering wheel 2f such that the outermost outer circumference of the steering wheel 2f passes between the pair of electrodes 32.

[0081] Figure 14 illustrates a configuration in which the electrode device 3 has a circuit board 36, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the electrode device 3 in Figure 14 may be replaced with an electrode device 3b that does not have a circuit board, as shown in Figure 8.

[0082] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, the pair of engaging portions 35 may engage with the core metal 23 of the steering wheels 2c to 2e. In this case, the pair of engaging portions 35 may engage with the inner circumference 23a and the outer circumference 23b so as to sandwich the core metal 23.

[0083] In the above description, an example was given in which the electrode device 3, etc., is arranged on the outermost circumference of the rim 20, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Figure 15, the recess 21 may be formed on the rear side of the steering wheel 2g relative to the vehicle 1. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a steering wheel 2g having an electrode device 3 arranged on the rear side of the vehicle 1.

[0084] In this case, the electrode device 3 mounted in the recess 21 will be positioned on the rear side of the steering wheel 2g relative to the vehicle 1. In this case, the pair of electrodes 32 are positioned on the steering wheel 2g such that the rearmost outer circumference of the steering wheel 2g passes between the pair of electrodes 32.

[0085] Figure 15 illustrates a configuration in which the electrode device 3 has a circuit board 36, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the electrode device 3 in Figure 15 may be replaced with an electrode device 3b that does not have a circuit board, as shown in Figure 8.

[0086] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, the pair of engaging portions 35 may be engaged with the core metal 23 of the steering wheels 2c to 2e. In this case, the pair of engaging portions 35 may be engaged with the inner circumference 23a and the outer circumference 23b so as to sandwich the core metal 23.

[0087] In Figure 1 above, when the rim 20 is likened to a clock face, the electrodes 32 are positioned in the range from approximately 2 o'clock to 4 o'clock and from approximately 8 o'clock to 10 o'clock on the rim 20. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the range of the rim 20 may be set as shown in Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing the range of electrodes 32 positioned on the rim 20 in the neutral position.

[0088] In this case, the angle α between the dashed line V1 connecting one end of the electrode 32 and the axis of the hub 29, and the dashed line V2 connecting the other end of the electrode 32 and the axis, may be set to be between 30° and 90°, when the rotational axis of the rim 20 (axis of the hub 29) is the center.

[0089] In this embodiment, the above-described elements may be combined in any way as appropriate.

[0090] <Effects and Effects> Next, the effects of the electrode devices 3 to 3e and the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g according to this embodiment will be described.

[0091] As described above, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 1 of this embodiment are electrode devices 3 to 3e that are arranged so as to be partially exposed from the surface of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g mounted on the vehicle 1, and comprise an electrode 32, a base 31 on which the electrode 32 is arranged, and an outer casing arranged on the base 31 to support the electrode 32. The base 31 or the outer casing has an engaging portion 35 for engaging with the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g, and the electrode 32 is exposed from the outer casing so as to form a part of the outer peripheral surface of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g when the electrode devices 3 to 3e are arranged on the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g.

[0092] According to this, electrode devices 3 to 3e can be placed on the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g. This makes the surfaces of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g smooth, eliminating the need to sew conductive rubber-coated fabric onto the surface of the steering cover with sewing thread, as in the conventional technology. Therefore, in this embodiment, a decrease in the aesthetic appearance of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g can be suppressed.

[0093] Furthermore, because the surfaces of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g are smoothly formed, the driver can easily grip the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g and easily make contact with the electrodes 32. Therefore, in this embodiment, unlike in the prior art, it is less likely that sewing threads will obstruct contact between the hand and the conductive rubber-coated fabric, or that the hand will get caught on the conductive rubber-coated fabric, which would reduce the accuracy of detecting the driver's biological information.

[0094] Therefore, according to the electrode devices 3 to 3e of this disclosure, it is possible to suppress the decrease in aesthetic appeal of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g and the decrease in the accuracy of detecting biological information.

[0095] In particular, since the surfaces of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g can be formed smoothly, when the driver grips the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g, it is less likely to cause discomfort to the driver, and it is expected that the driver's tactile sensation will be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 2 of this embodiment are the same as the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in Technology 1. In this case, the electrode 32 has a conductive layer 32a made of a conductive elastomer or a metal plate.

[0097] According to this, the driver can acquire biometric information when they grasp the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g.

[0098] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 3 of this embodiment are the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in Technology 2. In this case, the electrode 32 further has a conductive base fabric 32b, and the conductive layer 32a is laminated on the conductive base fabric 32b.

[0099] According to this, by laminating a conductive layer 32a onto a conductive base fabric 32b, the distance between the conductive base fabric 32b and the driver's hand can be made as short as possible.

[0100] For example, if the conductive layer 32a is a conductive elastomer, using a conductive base fabric 32b with lower electrical resistance than the conductive elastomer makes it easier to obtain electrical signals from the driver's hand.

[0101] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 4 of this embodiment are the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in any one of Technology 1 to 3. In this case, recesses 21 are formed on the surfaces of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g, the electrode devices 3 to 3e are placed in the recesses 21, and the engaging portion 35 engages with the engaged portion 22 formed in the recess 21.

[0102] According to this, by inserting the electrode devices 3-3e into the recesses 21 of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g, the engaging portion 35 and the engaged portion 22 engage, allowing the electrode devices 3-3e to be easily attached to the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g. Therefore, in this embodiment, the assembly of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g is simplified.

[0103] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3c to 3e according to Technology 5 of this embodiment are the electrode devices 3c to 3e described in any one of Technology 1 to 4. In this case, the engaging portion 35 engages with the core metal 23 of the steering wheel 2c to 2e.

[0104] According to this, since the engaging portion 35 engages with the core metal 23, the electrode devices 3c to 3e can be firmly fixed to the core metal 23.

[0105] Furthermore, the electrode device 3a according to Technology 6 of this embodiment is the electrode device 3a described in any one of Technologies 1 to 5. In this case, the exterior body has a cover 33 and a surface material 25a laminated on the cover 33, the outer circumferential surface of the steering wheel 2a is formed by the surface material 25, and the electrode 32 is exposed from the surface material 25a so as to form a part of the outer circumferential surface.

[0106] According to this, the surface of the steering wheel 2a can be made smoother, so when the driver grips the steering wheel 2a, it is less likely to cause discomfort to the driver, and it is expected that the driver's tactile sensation will be improved.

[0107] Furthermore, the outer surface of the rim 20 of the steering wheel 2a and the outer surface of the electrode device 3a can be made of the same material. Therefore, when the driver grips the steering wheel 2a, it is less likely to cause discomfort to the driver, and it is expected that the driver's tactile sensation will be improved.

[0108] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 7 of this embodiment are the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in any one of Technology 1 to 6. In this case, the base 31 has an electrode support portion 31b for arranging the electrode 32 and a base body 31a for arranging the outer casing and the electrode support portion 31b. The electrode support portion 31b is a convex body protruding from the surface of the base body 31a on which the outer casing is arranged. The base body 31a has a first engagement hole 31a1 for engaging with the electrode support portion 31b and a second engagement hole 31a3 for engaging with the outer casing. The electrode support portion 31b has a first engagement projection 31b1 for engaging with the first engagement hole 31a1, and the outer casing has a second engagement projection 33b for engaging with the second engagement hole 31a3.

[0109] According to this, the electrode support portion 31b can be easily assembled to the base body 31a by engaging the first engaging projection 31b1 with the first engaging hole 31a1. Furthermore, the outer casing can be easily assembled to the base body 31a by engaging the second engaging projection 33b with the second engaging hole 31a3. This makes the assembly of the electrode devices 3 to 3e easier.

[0110] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 8 of this embodiment are the same as the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in Technology 7. In this case, the base body 31a has an insertion hole 31a2 through which the electrode 32 is inserted, and the electrode 32 is arranged so as to extend from the electrode support portion 31b through the insertion hole 31a2 to the back surface of the base body 31a, and is electrically connected to the wiring 38 located inside the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g.

[0111] According to this, the electrode 32 and the wiring 38 can be electrically connected on the back surface of the base body 31a. Therefore, the connection portion for electrically connecting the electrode 32 and the wiring 38, and the wiring 38 itself can be placed on the back surface of the base body 31a. This suppresses a decrease in the aesthetic appearance of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g, and allows for a smooth surface to be formed on the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2g.

[0112] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to Technology 9 of this embodiment are the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in any one of Technology 1 to 8. In this case, the electrode devices 3 to 3e include a pair of electrodes 32 arranged on the front side and rear side of the vehicle 1, and the pair of electrodes 32 are arranged on the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2e such that the outermost circumference of the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c to 2e passes between the pair of electrodes 32.

[0113] According to this, when the driver grips the steering wheel 2, 2a, 2c-2e, the electrode 32 comes into contact with the driver's palm, enabling the detection of the driver's biometric information. Therefore, a decrease in the accuracy of biometric information detection can be suppressed.

[0114] Furthermore, the electrode devices 3 to 3e according to the technology 10 of this embodiment are the electrode devices 3 to 3e described in technology 7 or 8. In this case, the electrode 32 is positioned sandwiched between the electrode support portion 31b and the outer casing.

[0115] According to this, since the electrode 32 is supported by the electrode support portion 31b and the outer casing, the electrode 32 is less likely to detach from the electrode support portion 31b.

[0116] Furthermore, the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c~2g according to Technology 11 of this embodiment include electrode devices 3~3e described in any one of Technologies 1~10 and a rim 20 having a recess 21 formed therein for arranging the electrode devices 3~3e.

[0117] The steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g also exhibit the same effects as described above.

[0118] Furthermore, the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g according to Technology 12 of this embodiment are the same as the steering wheels 2, 2a, 2c-2g described in Technology 11. In this case, the recess 21 is formed on the outermost circumference of the rim 20.

[0119] According to this, the electrode devices 3 to 3e can be placed on the outermost circumference of the rim 20, making it easier for the driver's palm to come into contact with the electrode 32 when the driver grips the steering wheel 2, 2a, 2c to 2g, thereby enabling the detection of the driver's biological information. This makes it possible to suppress a decrease in the accuracy of biological information detection.

[0120] Furthermore, the steering wheel 2f according to Technology 13 of this embodiment is the steering wheel 2f described in Technology 11. In this case, the recess 21 is formed on the front side of the vehicle 1 in the rim 20.

[0121] According to this, since the electrode 3 is positioned in a location that is difficult for the driver to see, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the aesthetic appearance when the driver looks at the steering wheel 2f from the front.

[0122] Furthermore, the steering wheel 2g according to Technology 14 of this embodiment is the steering wheel 2g described in Technology 11. In this case, the recess 21 is formed on the rear side of the vehicle 1 in the rim 20.

[0123] According to this, the electrode device 3 is positioned in a location easily visible to the driver, so the driver consciously grips the steering wheel 2g so as to make contact with the electrode 32 of the electrode device 3.

[0124] Therefore, when the driver grips the steering wheel 2g, the driver's fingers or palm are more likely to come into contact with the electrode 32, allowing for better detection of the driver's biological information. As a result, it is expected that the decrease in the accuracy of biological information detection will be further suppressed.

[0125] (Other variations) Although the electrode devices and the like related to this disclosure have been described above based on the embodiments described, this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications to the embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive of may also be included in the scope of this disclosure, as long as they do not deviate from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0126] For example, in the above embodiment, the conductive layer 32a and the conductive base fabric 32b may be bonded together with a conductive adhesive.

[0127] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the electrode 32 may be attached to the base 31 with an adhesive, or the electrode 32 may be integrally formed with the base 31 by insert molding.

[0128] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the base body 31a and the electrode support portion 31b may be integrally configured.

[0129] Furthermore, this disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive, as well as forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of each embodiment without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0130] This disclosure is useful in steering wheels mounted on vehicles. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1 vehicle 2, 2a, 2c~2g Steering Wheel 3~3e electrode device 20 rim 21 Recess 22 Engaged part 23 Mandrel 25, 25a Skin material (exterior body) 31 Base 31a Base Unit 31a1 1st engagement hole 31a2 Through hole 31a3 2nd engagement hole 31b Electrode support part 31b1 First engagement convex part 32a conductive layer 32b Conductive base fabric 33 Cover (outer casing) 33b Second engagement protrusion 35 Engaging part

Claims

1. An electrode device positioned such that a portion of it is exposed from the surface of a steering wheel mounted on a vehicle, Electrodes and, The base on which the electrodes are arranged, The system comprises an outer casing disposed on the base so as to support the electrode, The base or the exterior body has an engagement portion for engaging with the steering wheel, The exterior body forms a part of the outer surface of the steering wheel when the electrode device is placed on the steering wheel. The electrode is exposed from the outer casing so as to form a part of the outer surface. Electrode device.

2. The electrode has a conductive layer made of a conductive elastomer or a metal plate. The electrode device according to claim 1.

3. The electrode further has a conductive base fabric, The conductive layer is laminated on the conductive base fabric. The electrode device according to claim 2.

4. The surface of the steering wheel is formed by a recess The electrode device is arranged in the recess, The engaging portion engages with the engaged portion formed in the recess. The electrode device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The engagement portion engages with the core metal of the steering wheel. The electrode device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The exterior body comprises a cover and a surface material laminated on the cover. The outer surface of the steering wheel is formed by the surface material, The electrode is exposed from the surface material so as to form a part of the outer surface. The electrode device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The base comprises an electrode support portion for arranging the electrode and a base body for arranging the outer casing and the electrode support portion. The electrode support portion is a convex body that protrudes from the surface of the base body on which the outer casing is arranged. The base body is formed with a first engagement hole for engaging with the electrode support portion and a second engagement hole for engaging with the outer casing. The electrode support portion has a first engagement projection for engaging with the first engagement hole, The exterior body has a second engaging projection for engaging with the second engaging hole. The electrode device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The base body has an insertion hole formed in it for inserting the electrode. The electrode is The electrode support portion is arranged to extend from the electrode support portion through the insertion hole to the back surface of the base body, The wiring located inside the steering wheel is electrically connected. The electrode device according to claim 7.

9. The electrode device comprises a pair of electrodes positioned on the front side of the vehicle and the rear side of the vehicle, The pair of electrodes are arranged on the steering wheel such that the outermost circumference of the steering wheel passes between the pair of electrodes. The electrode device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The electrode is positioned between the electrode support and the outer casing. The electrode device according to claim 7.

11. An electrode device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The device comprises a rim having a recess formed therein for arranging the electrode device, Steering wheel.

12. The recess is formed on the outermost circumference of the rim. The steering wheel according to claim 11.

13. The recess is formed on the front side of the rim. The steering wheel according to claim 11.

14. The recess is formed on the rear side of the rim. The steering wheel according to claim 11.

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