Steering wheel with airbag for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle steering wheel (20); the steering wheel comprising: a central hub (24) with a display screen (26); two gripping portions (32) transversely spaced apart from the central hub, said gripping portions extending vertically; a housing (34) in front of the display screen; a safety device with an inflatable bag and a module for inflating the inflatable bag 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 inflatable bag is capable of being deployed from the upper crossmember (42).

Description

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

[0001] The present invention claims priority from French application 2403084 filed on March 27, 2024, the content of which (text, drawings and claims) is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The invention relates to motor vehicle safety. The invention provides a steering wheel equipped with an airbag for a motor vehicle. The invention provides a steering wheel equipped with an airbag behind a display screen for a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle.

[0003] The steering system of a vehicle typically comprises a steering column mounted to rotate in a support, 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 electrical circuits of the motor vehicle are grouped.

[0004] The current trend is towards integrating an increasing number of electrical components into the central hub. These components are generally control units, intended to be manually operated by the driver. These components enable the control of functional components of the vehicle, such as the radio, cruise control, gearbox, or interfaces with the vehicle's navigation system. They also enable the operation of safety components, such as the inflatable ball or protective airbag.

[0005] In 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 and the environment, as well as information specific to entertainment functions. However, this display screen is arranged in the immediate vicinity of the inflatable ball; this is not without consequences for its operation, and therefore the level of safety it ensures.

[0006] CN 114194136B discloses a driver airbag device for a motor vehicle. The airbag device is configured to deploy from an area behind a steering wheel to an area in front of a steering wheel while avoiding an obstacle in a central portion of the steering wheel. The driver airbag device includes: an airbag housing disposed behind the steering wheel; and an airbag cushion housed in the airbag housing and configured to traverse a gap between the obstacle and the steering wheel rim by injecting gas into a forward deployment area. A housing cover is coupled to the airbag housing to cover the opening of the airbag housing and configured to rupture under deployment pressure of the airbag cushion to move the airbag housing forward of the steering wheel. A display screen provides entertainment information and service information to the driver.

[0007] Document US9193375B2 discloses a motor vehicle steering apparatus. The steering apparatus has a steering wheel with a steering wheel rim and steering wheel spokes. The airbag module includes an airbag and an airbag inflator, a molded plastic module cover. A display screen is housed behind a non-deployable window. The steering gear has a substantially non-rotating hub member in which the display is mounted. The airbag deploys from the rear of a deployable flap and extends between the non-rotating hub and the steering wheel rim and extends immediately adjacent the front side of the gear.

[0008] 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.

[0009] According to a first aspect, the invention proposes a steering wheel for a motor vehicle; the steering wheel comprising: a central hub with a display screen; two gripping portions transversely spaced from the central hub, said gripping portions extending vertically and being 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; remarkable in that the steering wheel further comprises an upper crossmember connecting each gripping portion to the central hub; an upper flap forming the upper crossmember and closing the housing; the housing extending into the upper crossmember so that the airbag is able to deploy from the upper crossmember.

[0010] The invention allows an airbag to be deployed at the top of a steering wheel. The invention also avoids the presence of a rigid obstacle above the airbag deployment area. This aspect improves safety. In addition, a steering wheel with the upper crossbar increases visibility of the dashboard.

[0011] Preferably, the upper flap comprises a first wall and a second wall extending under the first wall towards the display screen.

[0012] Preferably, the first wall comprises a first thickness, the second wall comprises a second thickness greater than the first thickness.

[0013] Preferably, the central hub comprises a partition for guiding the airbag, capable of deploying outside the housing when the airbag is inflated.

[0014] 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 inflation of the air bag.

[0015] Preferably, the upper flap has a first transverse width, the central hub comprises a second transverse width greater than the first transverse width.

[0016] Preferably, the display screen comprises a third transverse width less than the first transverse width.

[0017] Preferably, the central hub comprises a rear wall surrounding the display screen; the upper flap further comprising a retaining hook cooperating with said rear wall, said retaining hook being adapted to release the upper flap when said airbag is inflated.

[0018] Preferably, the upper flap comprises a lower edge, the retaining hook being formed at said lower edge and being arranged longitudinally at the level of the display screen.

[0019] Preferably, the upper flap includes side edges.

[0020] Preferably, the housing is above the display screen.

[0021] Preferably, the steering wheel further comprises a lower crosspiece connecting the gripping portions to the central hub; the gripping portions, the lower crosspiece and the upper crosspiece forming a rectangular frame around the central hub, the upper flap being vertically spaced from the lower crosspiece.

[0022] Preferably, the upper flap includes a hinge in front of the display screen.

[0023] Preferably, the upper flap forms an upper protrusion on the upper crosspiece.

[0024] Preferably, the steering wheel comprises a top, the upper flap forming said top.

[0025] Preferably, the central hub has a front face and a rear face, the display screen being on the rear face.

[0026] Preferably, the housing includes a bottom above the display screen.

[0027] Preferably, the airbag is configured to deploy longitudinally at the upper cross member when the inflation module is triggered.

[0028] Preferably, the upper cross member forms an upper face of the steering wheel and is attached to the central hub.

[0029] Preferably, the upper cross member forms the top of the steering wheel.

[0030] Preferably, the upper crosspiece is straight.

[0031] Preferably, the guide partition is under the upper flap.

[0032] Preferably, in the closed configuration the second portion extends forward from the first portion.

[0033] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a steering wheel for a motor vehicle; the steering wheel comprising: a central hub with a display screen; two gripping portions transversely spaced from the central hub, said gripping portions extending vertically and being 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; remarkable 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 outside the housing when the airbag is inflated; 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 when the airbag is inflated. Such a steering wheel enhances safety.;

[0034] According to another aspect, the invention provides 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 a airbag inflation module; a housing receiving the airbag, said housing being in front of the display screen; remarkable in that the peripheral handle comprises a horizontal upper crossbar; the steering wheel further comprises a flap covering the airbag and forming said branch in order to deploy the airbag from the upper crossbar.

[0035] According to another aspect, the invention provides a motor vehicle comprising a steering wheel; remarkable in that the steering wheel is in accordance with the invention.

[0036] Preferably, the motor vehicle comprises a driver's seat, the upper flap being longitudinally opposite said driver's seat.

[0037] 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.

[0038] The invention will be well understood and other aspects and advantages will appear clearly on reading the following description, given with reference to the appended figures and listed below.

[0039] Figure 1 is a side view of a motor vehicle according to the invention.

[0040] Figure 2 is a front view of a motor vehicle steering wheel according to the invention.

[0041] Figure 3 is an isometric side view of a motor vehicle steering wheel according to a first embodiment of the invention, the upper flap being in the open configuration.

[0042] Figure 4 shows in profile an airbag deploying from a steering wheel of a motor vehicle according to the first embodiment of the invention.

[0043] Figure 5 is a side view of a motor vehicle steering wheel according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0044] Figure 6 shows in profile an airbag deploying from a steering wheel of a motor vehicle according to the second embodiment of the invention.

[0045] In the following description, the term "comprise" is synonymous with "include" and is not limiting in that it allows the presence of other elements in the motor vehicle or steering wheel to which it relates. It is understood that the term "comprise" includes the terms "consist of".

[0046] In this description, the term "longitudinal", the term "longitudinally", the term "transverse", and the term "transversely" are used according to the reference system of the vehicle, in the mounting configuration. The term "longitudinal" corresponds to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "transverse" corresponds to a direction perpendicular to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "front" refers to the main direction of movement of the vehicle. The term "rear" designates the opposite of the front of the vehicle.

[0047] 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 direct trihedron.

[0048] In this description, the ranges of values ​​include the limits which delimit them.

[0049] In the present description, the term "vertical" and the term "horizontal" are not to be understood in the strict sense of the term. Indeed, they allow an inclination of at most 20°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5°, even more preferably at most 2°; compared to the strict sense of these terms.

[0050] In this description, the technical characteristics are defined in the mounting configuration of the steering wheel, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0051] Throughout the description, the different figures use the same reference signs to designate identical or similar entities.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The motor vehicle 10 comprises a structure 12. The structure 12 forms an outer body, or a main frame of the motor vehicle. The structure 12 delimits different compartments of the motor vehicle 10, including the passenger compartment, the cargo compartment, the engine compartment (not shown). The structure 12 connects different parts of the motor vehicle 10 including the openings. The structure 12 forms a mounting support for the powertrain, the suspension systems, the braking systems, and also the steering system 14.

[0054] The steering system 14 further comprises a control box 16. The control box is around the steering column 18. The steering system 14 comprises a rack connected to each front wheel via steering rods (not shown). The steering column 18 also comprises a rotating connection allowing attachment to the structure 12.

[0055] The steering system 14 further comprises a steering wheel 20 attached to the steering column 18. It transmits rotational movements thereto, and is possibly associated with an assistance 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 arranged on one side of the motor vehicle 10.

[0056] The motor vehicle may, for example, be a private motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle, according to one embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to that presented in relation to Figure 1.

[0058] The steering wheel 20 comprises 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 touch screen, so that the driver can control certain parameters of the motor vehicle. It is coupled to a central computer (not shown).

[0059] The steering wheel 20 also has different control interfaces of the button type 28. The buttons 28 are arranged on the central hub 24, or on spokes junction branches 30 extending from the central hub 24. The junction branches 30 are horizontal. The buttons 28 can receive a pressure pulse from the driver. Some buttons 28 are cross-shaped directional sliders.

[0060] The steering wheel 20 comprises two gripping portions 32. The gripping portions 32 form handles. They are transversely opposite relative to the central hub 24. The connecting branches 30 connect 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 manipulated by a driver of the motor vehicle. They extend mainly vertically. The gripping portions 32 are arched.

[0061] 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 inflation module (not shown) of the airbag. 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.

[0062] The steering wheel 20 further comprises an upper cross member 42. The upper cross member 42 forms a horizontal bar. It is straight. It materializes a flat area above the steering wheel 20, which frees up space for visibility of the dashboard. The steering wheel 20 is compact. The upper cross member 42 materializes the top of the steering wheel 20. The upper cross member 42 joins the central hub 24 to each gripping portion 32. The upper cross member 42 provides a support surface for the airbag when it is inflated.

[0063] The housing 34 extends into the upper cross member 42. It is hollow under the upper flap 40. The housing 34 extends vertically at the level of the upper cross member 42, and under the latter. 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 air bag manages to deploy from the upper cross member 42. This aspect makes it possible to position the air bag at the top of the upper cross member 42; and therefore of the steering wheel 20.

[0064] 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 a rectangular frame. The frame 46 surrounds the central hub 24, the connecting branches 30 and therefore the display screen 26. The upper flap 40 is vertically spaced from the lower cross member 44. It materializes the frame 46. The frame 46 forms a peripheral handle with a hoop surrounding the display screen.

[0065] The steering wheel 20 has several passages 80. The passages 80 pass through it longitudinally. They form openings. The frame 46 surrounds the passages 80. The passages 80 are delimited by the central hub, the connecting branches 30, the gripping portions 32, the crosspieces. The upper flap 40 is at a distance from the passages 80.

[0066] The upper flap 40 forms an upper protrusion 38 on the upper crosspiece 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 in the central hub 24.

[0067] Figure 3 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle may correspond to that 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 cross member 42. The airbag is not shown for the sake of clarity.

[0068] The housing 34 is open, in elevation relative to 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, it extends essentially horizontally; and the second wall 50 is a lower wall, it extends essentially vertically. They may be arched.

[0069] The upper flap 40 has a first transverse width 52, the central hub 24 comprises a second transverse width 54 greater than the first transverse width 52. This aspect optimizes compactness. It also improves the support of the airbag in the event of deployment. The display screen 26 comprises a third transverse width 56 less than the second transverse width 54. The third transverse width 56 is less than the first transverse width 52. This aspect increases the width of the opening available for the airbag. In general, the invention optimizes safety.

[0070] The transverse widths are average widths. They are measured when the steering wheel 20 is straight, that is to say in a neutral orientation in which the motor vehicle is moving in a straight line.

[0071] The upper flap 40 comprises a hinge 58 in front of the display screen 26. The hinge 58 comprises, for example, a line with a thinning. It is also formed on the central hub 24. The hinge 58 is configured to resist tearing of the steering wheel 20 when the latter is opened by the effect of a pyrotechnic charge of the inflation module. Such a pyrotechnic charge allows deployment of the airbag in a few thousandths of a second.

[0072] The display screen 26 is a liquid crystal display, commonly referred to by the acronym “LCD” which corresponds to the English expression “Liquid Crystal Display”. Such a screen limits energy consumption. The display screen 26 is generally rectangular, it has a diagonal of at least 5 cm.

[0073] 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.

[0074] The upper flap 40 comprises lateral edges 64. In the closed position, the lateral edges 64 fit the upper crosspiece 42. The lateral edges 64 project inside the upper flap 40. They laterally delimit the first wall 48 and the second wall 50. They help to strengthen the upper flap 40.

[0075] Figure 4 shows a steering wheel 20 of a motor vehicle during deployment of its airbag 62, according to one embodiment of the invention. The motor vehicle may correspond to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 3.

[0076] The upper flap 40 is movable between a closed position and an open position which is forced by the deployment of the inflatable bag 62. This deployment is triggered by the inflation module. In the open position, the upper flap 40 rises. It moves forward, and tilts forward around the hinge 58. It moves away from the gripping portions 32 and the housing 34. The inflatable bag 62 forms a cushion. It comprises a sealed envelope capable of being pressurized.

[0077] 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 greater. The first thickness and the second thickness are average thicknesses.

[0078] 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 exploded at the level of the housing 34. The motor vehicle generally corresponds to that shown in relation to one of Figures 1 to 4. The upper flap 40 is shown in the closed configuration.

[0079] The steering wheel 20 according to the second embodiment is substantially identical to that of the first embodiment, it is distinguished however in that it further comprises a guide partition 66. The guide partition 66 is under the upper flap 40. It is enveloped and covered by the upper flap 40.

[0080] The steering wheel 20 comprises: a central hub 24 with a display screen 26; two gripping portions 32 transversely spaced 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 inflation module 68 of the airbag; an upper flap 40 closing the housing 34. The steering wheel 20 further comprises an upper crossmember 42 connecting each gripping portion 32 to the central hub 24; an upper flap 40 forming the upper crossmember 42 and delimiting the housing 34. The housing 34 extends into the upper crossmember 42 so that the airbag is able to deploy from the upper crossmember 42.

[0081] Thus, the airbag deploys from the top of the steering wheel 20, and does not encounter any upper obstacle. Its kinematics are better controlled. Safety is enhanced.

[0082] The first wall 48 forms the top, and the second wall 50 forms a vertical section extending the first wall towards the display screen 26. The second wall 50 is generally flat. It faces the driver's seat (not shown). The configuration facing the driver's seat directs the deployment of the airbag towards the latter.

[0083] 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 at the same time as the upper flap 40. In the closed configuration, the upper flap 40 and the guide partition 66 delimit the housing 34. They overlap. They form the upper crosspiece 42.

[0084] The housing 34 includes a bottom above the display screen 26. This prevents damage to the display screen 26 in the event of the inflation module 68 being triggered.

[0085] 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 start of inflation. The airbag 62 deploys from the housing 34, pushing the upper flap 40 and the guide partition 66 in opposite directions.

[0086] 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 top of the guide partition 66. The second portion 72 is able to pivot rearwardly during 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 fixing portion. It is fixed to the floor of the housing 34. The third portion 74 is under the safety device 36, which stabilizes the guide partition 66 during deployment of the airbag 62.

[0087] In the closed configuration, the second portion 72 covers the airbag 62, and forms a baffle which directs deployment upwards. The second portion 72 extends forward from the first portion 70. However, under the effect of the increase in the pressure of the inflation module 68, the airbag 62 pushes the second portion 72 and causes it to tilt. From then on, the airbag 62 deploys rearward; therefore towards the driver for his safety.

[0088] 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 airbag 62.

[0089] The upper flap 40 has a variable thickness. The first wall 48 comprises a first thickness, 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 greater than the first thickness.

[0090] The central hub 24 comprises a housing with a rear wall 60 surrounding the display screen. The upper flap 40 further comprises a holding hook 76 capable of holding it in the closed position. The holding hook 76 is formed on the internal face of the upper flap 40, in particular of the second wall 50.

[0091] 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 when inflation of the air bag 62 begins.

[0092] The upper flap 40 comprises 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 said lower edge 78. In the closed configuration, the retaining hook 76 is arranged longitudinally at the display screen 26.

[0093] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper flap 40 is made of a plastic or composite material. The plastic material may comprise a thermoplastic material or a 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, vinylester or polyester-vinylester resins. For example, the composite material comprises a matrix of a plastic material as described above with a reinforcement. For example, the reinforcement comprises glass or carbon fibers.

[0094] The upper flap comprises at least 10% by weight of recycled plastic material based on the total weight of the plastic material; preferably 10 to 80% by weight; more preferably 20 to 60% by weight or 30 to 40% by weight. The use of recycled plastic material reduces the ecological footprint of the vehicle.

[0095] The features detailed in relation to one embodiment apply equally to each other embodiment, unless otherwise specified.

[0096] The invention includes the combination of all embodiments illustrated by all figures.

[0097] Figures 2 to 6 are isometric views. They each respect a specific scale, real angles and real proportions.

Claims

Claims

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 from the central hub (24), said gripping portions (32) extending vertically and being intended to be manipulated by a driver of the motor vehicle (10); a housing (34); a safety device (36) with an airbag (62) and an inflation module (68) of the airbag (62) in the housing (34); characterized in that the steering wheel (20) further comprises an upper crossmember (42) connecting each gripping portion (32) to the central hub (24); an upper flap (40) forming the upper crossmember (42) and closing the housing (34); the housing (34) extending into the upper cross member (42) such that the air bag (62) is capable of deploying 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 one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the central hub (24) comprises a guide partition (66) for the inflatable bag (62), capable of deploying outside the housing (34) when the inflatable bag (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 relative to the first portion (70); said second portion (72) being able to pivot during inflation of the air bag (62).

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

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

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

8. Steering wheel (20) according to 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 from the lower cross member (44).

9. Steering wheel (20) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the upper flap (40) comprises 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) is in accordance with 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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