Illumination system for a steering wheel

Abstract

An illumination system for a steering wheel may include a bezel defining a plurality of windows. An illumination system may include a light assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first surface and a second surface, the housing defining an opening extending from the first surface to the second surface, a printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the PCB facing the second surface of the housing, a light source disposed on the first surface of the PCB, a light guide disposed adjacent the first surface of the PCB; and a closure, wherein the PCB and the light guide are disposed in between the closure and the housing; and wherein the light assembly is coupled to the bezel and light emitted from the light source travels through the light guide and out the plurality of windows of the bezel.

Description

ILLUMINATION SYSTEM FOR A STEERING WHEELCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 694,004 filed on September 12, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated byreference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to safety devices for passenger vehicles. In particular,the disclosure relates to an illumination system for a steering wheel. Passenger vehiclesmay include, for example, automobiles, boats, trains, aircrafts, and spacecrafts.BACKGROUND

[0003] Nearly the entire passenger vehicle market is pushing for greater levels ofautonomous vehicle control to increase safety and reliability. For example, more and moreautomobiles are entering the market with systems for monitoring driver behavior and roadconditions and providing appropriate responses. With information gathered from thesesystems, automobile manufacturers can achieve various levels of autonomous drivingcontrol. However, before activating autonomous driving systems, automobile computersmust ensure that operators are paying close attention and ready to take manual controlwhen necessary.

[0004] One important aspect necessary to ensure operators stay attentive is an indicatorwithin the vehicle that can inform the operator of vehicle status. One effective means toachieve operator awareness is an illumination system. In automobiles, for example, thereare many surfaces within the vehicle that could include an illumination system, howevermany of them cannot guarantee that an operator will see them often enough to beeffective. On the other hand, illumination systems cannot be so obtrusive that they distractthe operator from the driving task. Therefore, there is a need for an optimized illuminationsystem for vehicles such that an operator will be properly notified of vehicle status withoutbeing overly distracted.SUMMARY

[0005] In some implementations, an illumination system for a steering wheel comprises abezel defining a plurality of windows and a light assembly. The light assembly comprises ahousing comprising a first surface and a second surface, the housing defining a plurality ofopenings extending from the first surface to the second surface. A printed circuit board(PCB) comprises a first surface and a second surface and the first surface of the PCB isdisposed adjacent the second surface of the housing. A plurality of light sources is disposedon the first surface of the PCB and a light guide is disposed adjacent the first surface of thehousing. Each of the plurality of light sources is disposed adjacent each of the plurality ofopenings of the housing. The housing further defines a plurality of walls, each of theplurality of walls being disposed in between two adjacent openings of the plurality ofopenings of the housing. The housing is coupled to the bezel and light emitted from theplurality of light sources travels through the light guide and out the plurality of windows ofthe bezel.

[0006] In some implementations, the first surface of the housing faces in a first directionand the second surface of the housing faces in a second direction different than the firstdirection. In some implementations, the plurality of walls extends from the first surface ofthe housing in the first direction. In some implementations, the housing further defines aguide wall extending from the first surface of the housing in the first direction, the guidewall surrounding the plurality of openings of the housing. In some implementations, theplurality of walls of the housing extends from a first side of the guide wall and a second sideof the guide wall. In some implementations, the first side of the guide wall and the secondside of the guide wall are opposite to each other.

[0007] In some implementations, each of the plurality of light sources comprises a lightemitting diode (LED). In some implementations, each of the plurality of light sourcescomprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some implementations, each of theLEDs of each array of LEDs is a single-color LED. In some implementations, each of thesingle-color LEDS of each array of LEDs emits a different color of light.

[0008] In some implementations, the light guide comprises a single unitary light guide. Inother implementations, the light guide comprises a plurality of light guides.

[0009] In other implementations, an illumination system for a steering wheel comprises abezel defining a plurality of windows and a light assembly. The light assembly comprises ahousing comprising a first surface and a second surface, the housing defining two openingsextending from the first surface to the second surface. A printed circuit board (PCB)comprises a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the PCB disposed adjacentthe second surface of the housing. Two light sources are disposed on the first surface of thePCB and a light guide is disposed adjacent the first surface of the housing. Each of the twolight sources is disposed adjacent each of the two openings of the housing. The housingfurther defines a wall, the wall being disposed in between the two openings of the housing.The housing is coupled to the bezel and light emitted from the two light sources travelsthrough the light guide and out the plurality of windows of the bezel.

[0010] In some implementations, the first surface of the housing faces in a first directionand the second surface of the housing faces in a second direction different than the firstdirection. In some implementations, the wall extends from the first surface of the housingin the first direction.

[0011] In some implementations, each of the two light sources comprises a light emittingdiode (LED). In some implementations, each of the two sources comprises an array of lightemitting diodes (LEDs).

[0012] In some implementations, the housing further defines a guide wall extending fromthe first surface of the housing in the first direction, the guide wall surrounding the twoopenings of the housing, wherein the wall of the housing extends from a first side of theguide wall and a second side of the guide wall, wherein the first side of the guide wall andthe second side of the guide wall are opposite to each other.

[0013] In some implementations, the light guide comprises a single unitary light guide. Inother implementations, the light guide comprises two separate light guides.

[0014] in other implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system for asteering wheel including: a bezel defining a plurality of windows; and a light assemblyincluding: a housing including a first surface and a second surface, the housing defining anopening extending from the first surface to the second surface; a printed circuit board (PCB)including a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the PCB facing the secondsurface of the housing; a light source disposed on the first surface of the PCB; a light guidedisposed adjacent the first surface of the PCB; and a closure, wherein the PCB and the lightguide are disposed in between the closure and the housing; and wherein the light assemblyis coupled to the bezel and light emitted from the light source travels through the lightguide and out the plurality of windows of the bezel.

[0015] In some aspects, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, wherein the lightsource includes a light emitting diode (LED).

[0016] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereinthe light source includes an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0017] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereineach of the LEDs of the array of LEDs is a single-color LED.

[0018] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereineach single-color LED of the array of LEDs emits a different color of light.

[0019] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereinthe light guide includes a single unitary light guide.

[0020] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereinthe housing includes clips that couple the housing to the PCB.

[0021] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereinthe closure includes clips that couple the closure to the housing.

[0022] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereinthe light source includes a plurality of light sources, and wherein each of the plurality of lightsources is disposed adjacent a side of the light guide.

[0023] In some implementations, the disclosure relates to an illumination system, whereinthe emitted light enters a side of the light guide and exits through the first surface of thelight guide.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The drawings are merely exemplary to illustrate steps, structure, and certainfeatures that can be used singularly or in combination with other features. The disclosureshould not be limited to the implementations shown.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a steering wheel comprising an illumination system.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a front side of the illumination system of FIG. 1.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a rear side of the illumination system of FIG. 1.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a light assembly of the illumination system of FIG. 3.

[0029] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the light assembly of FIG. 4 with a light guide removedfrom view.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a closure coupled to a housing of the light assembly ofFIG. 4.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the light assembly of FIG. 6 with the closure removed.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the housing of the light assembly of FIG. 4.

[0033] FIG. 9 is another perspective view of the housing of FIG. 8.

[0034] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a light guide of the light assembly of FIG. 4.

[0035] FIG. 11 is another perspective view of the light guide of FIG. 10.

[0036] FIG. 12 is cross-sectional view of the light assembly of FIG. 4 taken along the plane A-A in FIG. 4.

[0037] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the light assembly of FIG. 4.

[0038] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another implementation of a light assembly of theillumination system of FIG. 3.

[0039] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a housing of the light assembly of FIG. 14.

[0040] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a light guide of the light assembly of FIG. 14.

[0041] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the light assembly of FIG. 14 taken along the planeB-B in FIG. 14.

[0042] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the light assembly of FIG. 14.

[0043] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a rear side of another implementation of anillumination system.

[0044] FIG. 20 is another perspective view of the illumination system of FIG. 19.

[0045] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a light assembly of the illumination system of FIG. 19.

[0046] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the light assembly of FIG. 21.

[0047] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a housing of the light assembly of FIG. 21.

[0048] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a closure of the light assembly of FIG. 21.

[0049] FIG. 25 is another perspective view of the light assembly of FIG. 21.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein provide for an illuminationsystem for a steering wheel for use in passenger vehicles, such as automobiles. Theillumination system includes a bezel and a light assembly coupled to the bezel. The lightassembly includes a housing, a printed circuit board (PCB), a plurality of light sources, and alight guide. The housing defines a plurality of openings, and the plurality of light sources aredisposed adjacent the plurality of openings. A wall extends between adjacent openings ofthe plurality of openings to ensure optimum lighting characteristics. When activated, lightfrom the plurality of light sources travels through the light guide and out of windowsdefined by the bezel so that an operator of the vehicle can be alerted to a vehicle status.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, a steering wheel 101 comprises a rim 102, for gripping androtating the steering wheel 101, and a hub 103, for storing an airbag and horn function, forexample. The rim is coupled to the hub via spokes 104. An illumination system 100 islocated adjacent the "six o'clock" position. The illumination system 100 comprises a bezel105 and a light assembly 110 coupled to the bezel 105. The illumination system 100 mayinclude multiple light assemblies 110, however as shown in FIG. 3, for example, one lightassembly 110 is removed from view (left hand side of the FIGURE) to reveal mountingcharacteristics of the bezel 105, as discussed below. The bezel 105 may include otherfeatures, such as mounting holes 108, as well as other clips and snaps, to facilitate mountingthe bezel 105 to other steering wheel components, such as a backcover or a spoke 104.

[0052] To facilitate alerts to an operator of the vehicle, the bezel 105 defines a plurality ofwindows 106. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, there are eight total windows 106 defined by thebezel, however any number of windows 106 can be used depending on the necessaryrequirements and the desired design characteristics. The bezel 105 may be made fromplastic, metal, wood, or other material, but preferably plastic. To create the windows 106,in some implementations, the bezel 105 is formed as one solid piece, such as by a moldingprocess, and the plurality of windows 106 may be formed by removing material from thebezel 105 in the appropriate locations, such as by laser cutting, stamping, drilling, etc. Alight diffusing film may be placed over the windows 106 to seal them and to improve lighttransmission and appearance. In other implementations, the bezel 105 may be formed byan in-mold process, starting with a transparent plastic and using a light blocking film in allother locations than the windows 106. In all examples, the windows 106 can be designedsuch that they are invisible (or near invisible) to the naked eye unless the light assembly 110is illuminated.

[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 4-14, a first implementation of a light assembly 110 comprisesa housing 111, a printed circuit board (PCB) 125, a plurality of light sources 128, a light guide132, and a closure 129. The housing 111 comprises a first surface 112 and a second surface113. The first surface 112 faces in a first direction D1 (as shown in FIG. 12) and the secondsurface 113 faces in a second direction D2, the second direction being different than thefirst direction. In the implementations shown, the first direction D1 and the seconddirection D2 are perpendicular to the first surface 112 and the second surface 113, beingplanar surfaces, and directly opposite to each other, however in other implementations thehousing 111 may include curved surfaces or other shapes and the first direction D1 and thesecond direction D2 may be different but not opposite to each other.

[0054] The housing 111 defines a plurality of openings 114 extending from the first surface112 to the second surface 113. The housing 111 further defines a guide wall 116 extendingfrom the first surface 112 of the housing 111 in the first direction D1. The guide wall 116surrounds the plurality of openings 114 of the housing 111. The housing 111 further definesa plurality of walls 115 extending from the first surface 112 in the first direction D1. Each ofthe plurality of walls 115 are disposed in between two adjacent openings 114 of theplurality of openings 114 of the housing 111. The guide wall 116 comprises a first side 117and a second side 118 opposite the first side 117, and the plurality of walls 115 extendsfrom the first side 117 to the second side 118.

[0055] As best seen in FIGS. 5-8 and 12, a PCB 125 comprises a first surface 126 and asecond surface 127. The first surface 126 is disposed adjacent to the second surface 113 ofthe housing 111. In some implementations, the first surface 126 of the PCB 125 abuts thesecond surface 113 of the housing 111. A plurality of light sources 128 is disposed on thefirst surface 126 of the PCB 125 such that each of the plurality of light sources 128 aredisposed adjacent each of the plurality of openings 114 of the housing 111. In someimplementations, each of the plurality of light sources 128 are disposed within each of theplurality of openings 114 (i.e., the plurality of light sources 128 may at least partially extendinto the plurality of openings 114). A controller connector 131 is coupled to the secondsurface 127 of the PCB 125 to facilitate an electrical connection to a vehicle computer, notshown, for controlling the illumination system 100.

[0056] Each of the plurality of light sources 128 may comprise a light emitting diode (LED).As shown in FIG. 5, for example, each of the plurality of light sources 128 may comprise anarray of LEDs. As shown, each array of LEDs includes five LEDs. In other implementations,each of the plurality of light sources 128 may include any number of LEDs required for thedesired illumination effect, such as one LED or three LEDs. Each LED may be capable ofemitting only a single color of light (e.g., a single wavelength range), and is herein called asingle-color LED. Each single-color LED may emit a different color of light, thereforeallowing unique lighting combinations to achieve a desire effect. In other implementations,the LEDs may be red-green-blue-white (RGBW) LEDs or red-green-blue (RGB) LEDs capableof individually emitting a wide range of colors.

[0057] The light guide 132 is disposed adjacent the first surface 112 of the housing 111. Thelight guide 132 is inserted within the guide wall 116 and forms a snap fit with the guide wall116. To form the snap fit, a protrusion 119 of the guide wall 116 fits into a groove 136formed in the light guide 132 to ensure the light guide 132 does not decouple from thehousing 111. As shown in FIGS. 10-12, the light guide 132 may be made from a single,unitary piece and define slots 133 for fitting around the plurality of walls 115. The lightguide 132 may be formed from a transparent or semi-transparent light diffusing material,such as a clear or relatively clear plastic. The light guide 132 comprises a first surface 134and a second surface 135. When installed, the second surface 135 is adjacent the pluralityof light sources 128 to allow diffusion and transfer of emitted light from the plurality of lightsources 128 through the light guide 132 and out the first surface 134.

[0058] A closure 129 may be coupled to the housing 111 such that the closure 129surrounds and protects the PCB 125 from outside damage and contaminants. As shown inFIG. 6, the closure 129 allows the controller connector 131 to remain accessible, forexample to be plugged into a vehicle wiring harness to electrically couple the light assembly110 to a vehicle computer. The closure 129 may couple to the housing 111 via a snapfeature using one or more clips 130 that couple to one of more hooks 122 of the housing111. The closure 129 could also be coupled to the housing 111 using adhesives, heatstaking, magnets, or other similar methods.

[0059] To couple the light assembly 110 to the bezel 105, the light assembly 110 is broughtinto contact with the bezel 105 such that a mounting wall 107 of the bezel 105 is disposedbetween a middle wall 120 and a perimeter wall 121 of the housing 111. At this time,fastener openings 123 of the housing 111 will be aligned with fastener openings 109 of thebezel 105. Fasteners 124, for example screws, are then inserted through the fasteneropenings 109 and 123 to thereby fixedly couple the light assembly 110 to the bezel 105.Finally, a wiring harness is connected to the controller connector 131.

[0060] A vehicle may be configured to operate the illumination system 100 in a variety ofsituations. In some implementations, the illumination system 100 is configured to operateas a system that indicates autonomous driving conditions of the vehicle. For example, agreen color can be emitted to indicate the vehicle is capable of switching to autonomousmode while a red color can be emitted to indicate the vehicle is not capable of switching toautonomous mode. A blue color can be emitted to indicate the vehicle is currently drivingautonomously. The illumination system 100 may also be configured to emit consistent lightor flashing lights, such as a quickly repeating light or a slow pulsating light. In other words,the illumination system 100 can be configured to operate in any manner as required by thevehicle manufacturer to accomplish any required notification task.

[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 14-18, a second implementation of a light assembly 210 forinclusion in the illumination system 100 may comprise two light guides 232 rather than thesingle, unitary light guide 132 of the light assembly 110. For the following description of thelight assembly 210, parts that are the same will continued to be labeled as they are abovefor the light assembly 110 (e.g., PCB 125) whereas different but similar parts will be labeledsimilarly (e.g., housing 211 vs. housing 111).

[0062] The light assembly 210 comprises a housing 211, a printed circuit board (PCB) 125, aplurality of light sources 228, two light guides 232, and a closure 129. The housing 211comprises a first surface 212 and a second surface 213. The first surface 212 faces in thefirst direction D1 and the second surface 213 faces in a second direction D2, the seconddirection being different than the first direction. In the implementations shown, the firstdirection D1 and the second direction D2 are perpendicular to the first surface 212 and thesecond surface 213, being planar surfaces, and directly opposite to each other, however inother implementations the housing 211 may include curved surfaces or other shapes andthe first direction D1 and the second direction D2 may be different but not opposite to eachother.

[0063] The housing 211 defines two openings 214 extending from the first surface 212 tothe second surface 213. The housing 211 further defines a guide wall 216 extending fromthe first surface 212 of the housing 211 in the first direction D1. The guide wall 216surrounds the two openings 214 of the housing 211. The housing 211 further defines a wall215 extending from the first surface 212 in the first direction D1. The wall 215 is disposed inbetween the two openings 214 of the housing 211. The guide wall 216 comprises a first side217 and a second side 218 opposite the first side 217, and the wall 215 extends from thefirst side 217 to the second side 218.

[0064] As best seen in FIGS. 17-18, a PCB 125 comprises a first surface 126 and a secondsurface 127. The first surface 126 is disposed adjacent to the second surface 213 of thehousing 211. In some implementations, the first surface 126 of the PCB 125 abuts thesecond surface 213 of the housing 211. A plurality of light sources 228 is disposed on thefirst surface 126 of the PCB 125 such that each of the plurality of light sources 228 aredisposed adjacent each of the two openings 214 of the housing 211. In someimplementations, each of the plurality of light sources 228 are disposed within each of thetwo openings 214 (i.e., the plurality of light sources 228 may at least partially extend intothe two openings 214). A controller connector 131 is coupled to the second surface 127 ofthe PCB 125 to facilitate an electrical connection to a vehicle computer, not shown, forcontrolling the illumination system 100.

[0065] Each of the plurality of light sources 228 may comprise a light emitting diode (LED).As shown in FIG. 18, for example, each of the plurality of light sources 228 may comprise anarray of LEDs. As shown, each array of LEDs includes five LEDs. In other implementations,each of the plurality of light sources 228 may include any number of LEDs required for thedesired illumination effect, such as one LED or three LEDs. Each LED may be capable ofemitting only a single color of light (e.g., a single wavelength range), and is herein called asingle-color LED. Each single-color LED may emit a different color of light, thereforeallowing unique lighting combinations to achieve a desire effect. In other implementations,the LEDs may be red-green-blue-white (RGBW) LEDs or red-green-blue (RGB) LEDs capableof individually emitting a wide range of colors.

[0066] The light guides 232 are disposed adjacent the first surface 212 of the housing 211.The light guides 232 are inserted within the guide wall 216 and form a snap fit with theguide wall 216. To form the snap fit, protrusions 219 of the guide wall 216 fit into a groove236 formed in the light guide 232 to ensure the light guide 232 does not decouple from thehousing 211. The light guides 232 may be formed from a transparent or semi-transparentlight diffusing material, such as a clear or relatively clear plastic. The light guides 232 eachcomprise a first surface 234 and a second surface 235. When installed, the second surfaces235 are adjacent the plurality of light sources 228 to allow diffusion and transfer of emittedlight from the plurality of light sources 228 through the light guides 232 and out the firstsurface 234.

[0067] A closure 129 may be coupled to the housing 211 such that the closure 129surrounds and protects the PCB 125 from outside damage and contaminants. As shown inFIG. 17, the closure 129 allows the controller connector 131 to remain accessible, forexample to be plugged into a vehicle wiring harness to electrically couple the light assembly210 to a vehicle computer. The closure 129 may couple to the housing 211 via a snapfeature using one or more clips and hooks as described above. The closure 129 could alsobe coupled to the housing 211 using adhesives, heat staking, magnets, or other similarmethods.

[0068] To couple the light assembly 210 to the bezel 105, the light assembly 210 is broughtinto contact with the bezel 105 such that a mounting wall 107 of the bezel 105 is disposedbetween a middle wall 220 and a perimeter wall 221 of the housing 211. At this time,fastener openings 223 of the housing 211 will be aligned with fastener openings 109 of thebezel 105. Fasteners 124, for example screws, are then inserted through the fasteneropenings 109 and 223 to thereby fixedly couple the light assembly 210 to the bezel 105.Finally, a wiring harness is connected to the controller connector 131.

[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 19-25, a third implementation of an illumination system 300includes a light assembly 310. The light assembly 310 comprises a housing 311 (see FIG. 21),a printed circuit board (PCB) 325 (see FIG. 22), a plurality of light sources 328 (two shown inFIG. 22), a single, unitary light guide 332 (see FIGS. 21 and 22), and a closure 329 (see FIG.24).

[0070] The housing 311 comprises a first surface 312 (see FIG. 21) and a second surface 313(see FIG. 23). The first surface 312 faces in the first direction D1 and the second surface 313faces in a second direction D2, the second direction being different than the first direction.In the implementations shown, the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 areperpendicular to the first surface 312 and the second surface 313, being planar surfaces,and directly opposite to each other, however in other implementations the housing 311may include curved surfaces or other shapes and the first direction D1 and the seconddirection D2 may be different but not opposite to each other. The housing 311 defines oneopening 314 extending from the first surface 312 to the second surface 313.

[0071] As best seen in FIG. 22, a PCB 325 comprises a first surface 326 and a second surface327. The first surface 326 is disposed adjacent to the second surface 313 of the housing311. In some implementations, the first surface 326 of the PCB 325 abuts the secondsurface 313 of the housing 311. A light source in the form of two light sources 328 isdisposed on the first surface 326 of the PCB 325 such that each of the light sources 328 isdisposed adjacent a side 337 of the light guide 332. In this arrangement, the light sources328 emit light into the sides 337 of the light guide 332 such that the emitted light will exitfrom the first surface 334 of the light guide 332. In some implementations, the light sourceincludes a single light source 328. In some implementations, the light source includes morethan two light sources 328.

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 22 and 25, a controller connector 331 is coupled to the secondsurface 327 of the PCB 325 to facilitate an electrical connection to a vehicle computer (notshown) for controlling the illumination system 300.

[0073] In some implementations, each of light sources 328 comprises a light emitting diode(LED). As shown in FIG. 22, for example, each of the plurality of light sources 328 maycomprise an array of LEDs. As shown, each array of LEDs includes three LEDs. In otherimplementations, each of the plurality of light sources 328 may include any number of LEDsrequired for the desired illumination effect, such as one LED, two LEDs, five LEDs, etc. EachLED may be capable of emitting only a single color of light (e.g., a single wavelength range),and is herein called a single-color LED. Each single-color LED may emit a different color oflight, therefore allowing unique lighting combinations to achieve a desire effect. In otherimplementations, the LEDs may be red-green-blue-white (RGBW) LEDs or red-green-blue(RGB) LEDs capable of individually emitting a wide range of colors.

[0074] The light guide 332 is disposed adjacent the second surface 313 of the housing 311such that at least a portion of a first surface 334 of the light guide 332 is visible through theopening 314 of the housing 311. The light guide 332 may be formed from a transparent orsemi-transparent light diffusing material, such as a clear or relatively clear plastic. Wheninstalled, the sides 337 are adjacent the plurality of light sources 328 to allow diffusion andtransfer of emitted light from the plurality of light sources 328 through the light guide 332and out the first surface 334, as noted above.

[0075] A closure 329 may be coupled to the housing 311 such that the closure 329surrounds and protects the PCB 325 from outside damage and contaminants. As shown inFIG. 25, the closure 329 allows the controller connector 331 to remain accessible, forexample to be plugged into a vehicle wiring harness to electrically couple the light assembly310 to a vehicle computer. The closure 329 may couple to the housing 311 via a snapfeature using one or more clips 330 (see FIG. 24). The closure 329 could also be coupled tothe housing 311 using adhesives, heat staking, magnets, or other similar methods. Similarly,the housing 311 may couple to the PCB 325 via a snap feature using one or more clips 322(see FIG. 23). The housing 311 could also be coupled to the PCB 325 using adhesives, heatstaking, magnets, or other similar methods. When the closure 329 is coupled to the housing311, the entire light assembly 310 is held firmly together as a single assembly wherein thePCB 325 and the light guide 332 are disposed in between the closure 329 and the housing311.

[0076] To couple the light assembly 310 to the bezel 305, the light assembly 310 is broughtinto contact with the bezel 305 such that a mounting wall 307 of the bezel 305 is disposed ina gap 339 (as shown in FIG. 21) between the housing 311 and the closure 329. At this time,fastener dimples 338 of the closure 329 will be aligned with fastener protrusions 336 of thebezel 305 (as shown in FIG. 20), which snap together to form a snap-fit of the light assembly310 to the bezel 305. Finally, a wiring harness is connected to the controller connector 331.

[0077] The description in the present disclosure has been presented for purposes ofillustration but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the implementations disclosed.It will be understood that various modifications and variations will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art and may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of thefollowing claims. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the claims.For example, the light assembly 110 may use a single, unitary light guide 132 or use aplurality of light guides, similar to the two light guides 232 of the light assembly 210.Similarly, the light assembly 210 may use a single, unitary light guide similar to the lightguide 132 of the light assembly 110. The particular implementations described were chosenin order to best explain the principles of the illumination system and its practicalapplication, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the system forvarious implementations with various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated.

[0078] The terms "coupled," "connected," and the like as used herein to mean the joining oftwo members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g.,permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved withthe two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members beingintegrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or thetwo members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

[0079] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularimplementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein,the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well,unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms"comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components,and / or groups thereof.EXAMPLES

[0080] Example 1. An illumination system for a steering wheel comprising: a bezel defining aplurality of windows; and a light assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first surfaceand a second surface, the housing defining a plurality of openings extending from the firstsurface to the second surface; a printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a first surface and asecond surface, the first surface of the PCB disposed adjacent the second surface of thehousing; a plurality of light sources disposed on the first surface of the PCB; and a light guidedisposed adjacent the first surface of the housing; wherein each of the plurality of lightsources is disposed adjacent each of the plurality of openings of the housing; wherein thehousing further defines a plurality of walls, each of the plurality of walls being disposed inbetween two adjacent openings of the plurality of openings of the housing; and wherein thehousing is coupled to the bezel and light emitted from the plurality of light sources travelsthrough the light guide and out the plurality of windows of the bezel.

[0081] Example 2. The illumination system of Example 1, wherein the first surface of thehousing faces in a first direction and the second surface of the housing faces in a seconddirection different than the first direction.

[0082] Example 3. The illumination system of Example 2, wherein the plurality of wallsextends from the first surface of the housing in the first direction.

[0083] Example 4. The illumination system of Example 1, wherein each of the plurality oflight sources comprises a light emitting diode (LED).

[0084] Example 5. The illumination system of Example 1, wherein each of the plurality oflight sources comprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0085] Example 6. The illumination system of Example 5, wherein each of the LEDs of eacharray of LEDs is a single-color LED.

[0086] Example 7. The illumination system of Example 6, wherein each single-color LED ofeach array of LEDs emits a different color of light.

[0087] Example 8. The illumination system of Example 2, wherein the housing furtherdefines a guide wall extending from the first surface of the housing in the first direction, theguide wall surrounding the plurality of openings of the housing.

[0088] Example 9. The illumination system of Example 8, wherein the plurality of walls ofthe housing extends from a first side of the guide wall and a second side of the guide wall.

[0089] Example 10. The illumination system of Example 9, wherein the first side of the guidewall and the second side of the guide wall are opposite to each other.

[0090] Example 11. The illumination system of Example 1, wherein the light guide comprisesa single unitary light guide.

[0091] Example 12. The illumination system of Example 1, wherein the light guide comprisesa plurality of light guides.

[0092] Example 13. An illumination system for a steering wheel comprising: a bezel defininga plurality of windows; and a light assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first surfaceand a second surface, the housing defining two openings extending from the first surface tothe second surface; a printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a first surface and a secondsurface, the first surface of the PCB disposed adjacent the second surface of the housing;two light sources disposed on the first surface of the PCB; and a light guide disposedadjacent the first surface of the housing; wherein each of the two light sources is disposedadjacent each of the two openings of the housing; wherein the housing further defines awall, the wall being disposed in between the two openings of the housing; and wherein thehousing is coupled to the bezel and light emitted from the two light sources travels throughthe light guide and out the plurality of windows of the bezel.

[0093] Example 14. The illumination system of Example 13, wherein the first surface of thehousing faces in a first direction and the second surface of the housing faces in a seconddirection different than the first direction.

[0094] Example 15. The illumination system of Example 14, wherein the wall extends fromthe first surface of the housing in the first direction.

[0095] Example 16. The illumination system of Example 13, wherein each of the two lightsources comprises a light emitting diode (LED).

[0096] Example 17. The illumination system of Example 13, wherein each of the two sourcescomprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0097] Example 18. The illumination system of Example 13, wherein the housing furtherdefines a guide wall extending from the first surface of the housing in a first direction, theguide wall surrounding the two openings of the housing, wherein the wall of the housingextends from a first side of the guide wall and a second side of the guide wall, and whereinthe first side of the guide wall and the second side of the guide wall are opposite to eachother.

[0098] Example 19. The illumination system of Example 13, wherein the light guidecomprises a single unitary light guide.

[0099] Example 20. The illumination system of Example 13, wherein the light guidecomprises two separate light guides.

[0100] Example 21. An illumination system for a steering wheel comprising: a bezel defininga plurality of windows; and a light assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first surfaceand a second surface, the housing defining an opening extending from the first surface tothe second surface; a printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a first surface and a secondsurface, the first surface of the PCB facing the second surface of the housing; a light sourcedisposed on the first surface of the PCB; a light guide disposed adjacent the first surface ofthe PCB; and a closure, wherein the PCB and the light guide are disposed in between theclosure and the housing; and wherein the light assembly is coupled to the bezel and lightemitted from the light source travels through the light guide and out the plurality ofwindows of the bezel.

[0101] Example 22. The illumination system of Example 21, wherein the light sourcecomprises a light emitting diode (LED).

[0102] Example 23. The illumination system of Example 21, wherein the light sourcecomprises an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0103] Example 24. The illumination system of Example 23, wherein each of the LEDs of thearray of LEDs is a single-color LED.

[0104] Example 25. The illumination system of Example 24, wherein each single-color LED ofthe array of LEDs emits a different color of light.

[0105] Example 26. The illumination system of Example 21, wherein the light guidecomprises a single unitary light guide.

[0106] Example 27. The illumination system of Example 21, wherein the housing comprisesclips that couple the housing to the PCB.

[0107] Example 28. The illumination system of Example 27, wherein the closure comprisesclips that couple the closure to the housing.Example 29. The illumination system of Example 21, wherein the light source includes aplurality of light sources, and wherein each of the plurality of light sources is disposedadjacent a side of the light guide.

[0108] Example 30. The illumination system of Example 21, wherein the emitted light entersa side of the light guide and exits through the first surface of the light guide.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An illumination system for a steering wheel comprising:a bezel defining a plurality of windows; anda light assembly comprising:a housing comprising a first surface and a second surface, the housingdefining an opening extending from the first surface to the second surface;a printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a first surface and a second surface,the first surface of the PCB facing the second surface of the housing;a light source disposed on the first surface of the PCB;a light guide disposed adjacent the first surface of the PCB; anda closure,wherein the PCB and the light guide are disposed in between the closure and thehousing; andwherein the light assembly is coupled to the bezel and light emitted from the lightsource travels through the light guide and out the plurality of windows of the bezel.

2. The illumination system of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a lightemitting diode (LED).

3. The illumination system of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises an array oflight emitting diodes (LEDs).

4. The illumination system of claim 3, wherein each of the LEDs of the array of LEDs is asingle-color LED.

5. The illumination system of claim 4, wherein each single-color LED of the array ofLEDs emits a different color of light.

6. The illumination system of claim 1, wherein the light guide comprises a single unitarylight guide.

7. The illumination system of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises clips that couplethe housing to the PCB.

8. The illumination system of claim 7, wherein the closure comprises clips that couplethe closure to the housing.

9. The illumination system of claim 1, wherein the light source includes a plurality oflight sources, andwherein each of the plurality of light sources is disposed adjacent a side of the lightguide.

10. The illumination system of claim 1, wherein the emitted light enters a side of thelight guide and exits through the first surface of the light guide.

Images