EP2307238A1 - Control module for a lever of control assembly under a steering wheel, and related lever - Google Patents

Control module for a lever of control assembly under a steering wheel, and related lever

Info

Publication number
EP2307238A1
EP2307238A1 EP09772560A EP09772560A EP2307238A1 EP 2307238 A1 EP2307238 A1 EP 2307238A1 EP 09772560 A EP09772560 A EP 09772560A EP 09772560 A EP09772560 A EP 09772560A EP 2307238 A1 EP2307238 A1 EP 2307238A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
indexing
control
module according
lever
base
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP09772560A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Michel Hallet
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SC2N SAS
Original Assignee
SC2N SAS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by SC2N SAS filed Critical SC2N SAS
Publication of EP2307238A1 publication Critical patent/EP2307238A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/02—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments
    • B60Q1/04—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights
    • B60Q1/14—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights having dimming means
    • B60Q1/1446—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to illuminate the way ahead or to illuminate other areas of way or environments the devices being headlights having dimming means controlled by mechanically actuated switches
    • B60Q1/1453—Hand actuated switches
    • B60Q1/1461—Multifunction switches for dimming headlights and controlling additional devices, e.g. for controlling direction indicating lights
    • B60Q1/1469—Multifunction switches for dimming headlights and controlling additional devices, e.g. for controlling direction indicating lights controlled by or attached to a single lever, e.g. steering column stalk switches
    • B60Q1/1476—Multifunction switches for dimming headlights and controlling additional devices, e.g. for controlling direction indicating lights controlled by or attached to a single lever, e.g. steering column stalk switches comprising switch controlling means located near the free end of the lever, e.g. press buttons, rotatable rings

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a control module for a lever of a control unit under a steering wheel of a motor vehicle.
  • the present invention relates to a control module for electrical functions, for example wiping functions or motor vehicle lighting, for a lever generally disposed near the steering wheel to allow the driver easy access to electrical functions .
  • electrical functions for example wiping functions or motor vehicle lighting
  • levers have already been proposed.
  • levers are known that most often have two gripping members rotatably mounted about the longitudinal axis of the lever and allowing the driver of the vehicle to select an electrical function by turning a gripping member to transform the different movements of the lever. these gripping members in control signals for actuating the electrical function selected by the driver.
  • control module for a lever of a sub-steering control assembly having a high degree of modularity, and allowing a simplified and less expensive assembly for different electrical functions, while allowing to meet the various specifications of the manufacturers.
  • the subject of the invention is a control module for a lever of a sub-steering control assembly characterized in that it comprises:
  • a base intended to be secured to the lever and carrying a contact pad support having on its two opposite faces respectively first and second electric contact pads
  • a first and a second control member rotatable relative to the base and respectively carrying a first and a second contact element capable of cooperating respectively with the first and second contact pads, the first and second control members being arranged symmetrically on both sides of the contact pad carrier.
  • control members symmetrically on either side of the contact pad support provides a control module of high modularity whose assembly is simplified.
  • the module can easily be adapted according to the customer's options even at the end of the assembly of the control lever, by modifying or replacing the support contact pads, so as to actuate electrical functions desired by the customer.
  • the control module may further comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in combination: the first and second control members have an identical general shape, which makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing costs and simplify the assembly of the module control,
  • the contact pad support is in the form of a printed circuit board, preferably in the form of an overmoulded insert making it possible to easily change the circuit according to the options chosen by the customer,
  • the first and second contacting elements respectively comprise a detent means for detachably fixing with the first and second control members respectively, which makes it possible to obtain an easily modulatable control module; at least one contactor element; is a high current contactor element to supply electrical energy, in particular for lighting, heating and motive power functions,
  • At least one contactor element is a low-current contactor element intended to diffuse, collect or exchange information in the form of electrical signals;
  • the contactor element has a general shape of an arc of circle which comprises at least two branches; hoses whose ends are able to establish two simultaneous electrical contacts to ensure the transmission of an electrical signal, said branches extending from a central base,
  • the module comprises first and second indexing means for respectively indexing the positions of first and second gripping members respectively integral with the first and second control members, the first and second indexing means being arranged symmetrically on the one hand and other contact pads support, for a simple assembly of the control module,
  • first and second indexing means comprise on the one hand respectively first and second indexing ramps and, on the other hand respectively, first and second plungers intended to be biased radially by means of elastic members, respectively against first and second indexing ramps,
  • the first and second plungers are carried by the base and the first and second indexing ramps are formed respectively in the first and second gripping members,
  • the first and second plungers are carried respectively by the first and second control members and in that the first and second indexing ramps are formed in the base,
  • the first and second indexing means comprise respectively first and second indexing pins and secondly respectively a first and a second indexing ring capable of being axially biased through an organ elastically, respectively against the first and second indexing pins,
  • the invention also relates to a lever of a sub-steering control assembly characterized in that it comprises a control module according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a lever of a control assembly under a steering wheel
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b show sectional views of a first embodiment of a lever according to the invention
  • FIGS. 3a to 3f schematically illustrate the steps of a method of assembling a lever control module of FIGS. 2a and 2b
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a contactor element according to the invention
  • FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a second embodiment of a lever according to the invention.
  • FIG. 6 represents a control member of the lever of FIG. 5;
  • FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a third embodiment of a lever according to the invention.
  • FIGS. 8a to 8f schematically illustrate the steps of a method of assembling a control module of the lever of FIG. 7.
  • FIGS. 5 and 6, respectively of FIGS. 7 to 8f, corresponding to the elements of FIGS. 1 to 4 bear the same references preceded by the one hundred 1, respectively of the one hundred one. will not be described again.
  • a central support connected to the steering column has laterally two levers.
  • lever 1 having a longitudinal axis A1, and a first 3 and a second 5 concentric grippers mounted rotatably about the axis Al.
  • gripping members 3,5 are able to be rotated by the driver of the vehicle to select electrical functions concerning, for example, the lighting (lighting the lights) or wiping (speed of the wipers).
  • electrical functions may vary depending on the manufacturers and options chosen by the customer, there may be mentioned for example electrical functions for the operation of the radio or a multimedia device. Generally, these various functions are identified on the gripping members 3,5 by one or more symbols, so as to allow the driver easy location of these functions.
  • the appearance and shape of the gripping members 3,5 are classically specific to each manufacturer and may vary from one lever to another.
  • the lever 1 comprises a control module 7 adapted to be actuated when a gripping member 3,5 is rotated to select an electrical function and able to transform the movement of the gripping member 3,5 turned into control signals for actuating the selected function.
  • control module 7 comprises a base 9 intended to be integral with the lever 1 and arranged between the two gripping members 3.5.
  • This base 9 may have a cylindrical shape for simplifying the arrangement of the base 9 between the gripping members 3 and 5 arranged concentrically.
  • the base 9 carries a support 11 of contact pads which has on a first face 11a of the first 12a electrical contact pads, and on a second face 11b opposite the first face 11a seconds 12b electrical contact pads .
  • the control module 7 further comprises a first 13a and a second 13b control members intended to be secured respectively to the first 3 and second 5 gripping members and rotatable relative to the base 9.
  • the first control member 13a (respectively the second control member 13b) carries a first contactor element 15a (respectively a second contactor element 15b) disposed opposite the first contacting pads 12a.
  • the first 15a and second 15b contactor elements then cooperate with contact pads 12a, 12b carried by a support 11 of common contact pads.
  • first 13a and second 13b control members are arranged symmetrically on either side of the support 11 of contact pads and preferably have a generally identical shape, which reduces the manufacturing costs since a single mold can suffice for multiple control members, and simplify the assembly of the control module 7, and the lever 1 which contains it.
  • control members 13a, 13b can then be mounted integral in rotation with one or the other of the two gripping members 3,5, which allows to define standard control members adapted to several gripping members.
  • the assembly of the control module can be automated.
  • the support 11 of contact pads is made in the form of a printed circuit board, in English "PCB” for "Printed Circuit Board” preferably in the form of an overmoulded insert, which makes it possible to easily change the circuit according to the options chosen by the customer, without having to change the entire control module 7, which provides a greater modularity of the control module 7.
  • This support also comprises unrepresented connectors for the electrical connection of the circuits with the electrical harness of the vehicle.
  • a contactor element 15a, 15b comprises a latching means 16 for being removably attached to a control member 13a, 13b, further adding flexibility to the embodiment at the control module 7.
  • the latching means 16 of the contactor element 15a, 15b is able to cooperate with a corresponding latching means of a control member.
  • the snap-fastening means 16 is formed by an elastic hook adapted to cooperate with a hooking protrusion of a control member 13a, 13b.
  • the contactor element 15a, 15b is easily interchangeable, and depending on the options chosen by the customer, one can advantageously provide both a high current contactor element a low current contactor element.
  • High current designates a current capable of supplying electrical energy, in particular for lighting, heating and motive power functions (lamps, resistors, motors). The currents involved are of the order of a few mA to several A.
  • a weak current designates a current intended to diffuse, collect or exchange information in the form of electrical signals.
  • the currents involved are sometimes very weak (a few mA to a few ⁇ A).
  • the required performance are not the same for a contactor element with high current or low current.
  • the contacting elements 15a, 15b have a general shape of an arc of a circle, adapted to the cylindrical shape of the base 9.
  • the contactor element 15a, 15b preferably has at least two flexible branches 17 whose ends are able to establish two simultaneous electrical contacts.
  • the simultaneous contacts allow for example in case of dust or obstacle on a branch 17 to ensure the transmission of an electrical signal, thus increasing the reliability of the control module.
  • the contactor element 15a, 15b comprises four flexible branches 17 whose ends are able to establish four simultaneous contacts.
  • each branch 17 comprises two contact arms 19a, 19b adapted to establish the electrical contacts with the associated contact pads 12a, 12b.
  • each branch 17 has at least two contact arms
  • each branch 17 or contactor arm 19a, 19b has a curved end, adapted to establish electrical contact with contact pads 12a, 12b corresponding.
  • the legs 17 extend from a central base 21 which suitably carries the latching means 16 to removably attach the contact member 15a, 15b and the control member 13a, 13b.
  • the control module 7 also comprises first and second indexing means for respectively indexing the positions of the first 3 and second 5 gripping members.
  • first 23a and second 23b indexing means are arranged symmetrically respectively on either side of the support 11 of contact pads, and are preferably of identical structure, which allows a simple assembly and little expensive control module 7 and lever 1 which contains it.
  • the first and second indexing means respectively allow radial indexing of the positions of the first 3 and second 5 gripping members. More specifically, the first indexing means comprises:
  • the first indexing ramps defined by an evolutive profile on the inner surface of the first gripping member 3, and
  • the second indexing means comprises:
  • second indexing ramps defined by an evolutive profile on the inner surface of the second gripping member 5
  • second plungers 23b carried by the base 9 and intended to be radially stressed by means of associated elastic members, against the second indexing ramps.
  • the elastic members are made in the form of springs 25 arranged in the base 9.
  • the base 9 is made in the form of two distinct parts 9a, 9b respectively equipped with housings 29a, 29b intended to respectively receive the plungers 23a, 23b and the associated springs 25.
  • control module 7 whose assembly method comprises the following steps:
  • the contacting elements 15a, 15b are fixed to the control members 13a, 13b (FIG. 3a),
  • the first 23a and second 23b indexing means and the associated springs 25 are respectively mounted in the housings 29a, 29b (FIG. 3b),
  • the first control member 13a and the second base portion 9b are assembled so that the first contact areas 12a are opposite the contactor element 15a and the two control members 13a and 13b are arranged in such a way that symmetrical on either side of the support 11 ( Figure 3e), and
  • the first base portion 9a and the second base portion 9b are assembled, so that the indexing means 23a, 23b are symmetrically disposed on either side of the support 11 (FIG. 3f).
  • the gripping members 3,5 are then attached indifferently to the control members 13a, 13b, and the assembly thus formed is mounted on the lever 1 (see FIGS.
  • a second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, differs from the first embodiment in that than :
  • the first 123a and second 123b divers are carried respectively by the first 113a and second 113b control members and
  • the first and second indexing ramps are defined by an evolutive profile on the inner surface of the base 109.
  • the first 123a and second 123b plungers are intended to be biased radially by means of associated elastic members, for example springs, respectively against the first and second indexing ramps of the baseplate.
  • control member 113a, 113b has housings 129a, 129b able respectively to receive the plungers 123a, 123b and the associated springs.
  • control member 113a, 113b This produces a standard contact and indexing member formed by the control member 113a, 113b, adapted to be arranged in any lever control module of a sub-steering control assembly.
  • indexing ramps being defined on the base 109, it is no longer necessary to change all the gripping members to change the haptic feedback when an electrical function is selected but it changes only one only part: the base.
  • a control module 107 is thus obtained whose assembly method comprises the following steps:
  • the gripping member 105 is mounted to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the lever 101,
  • the base 109 is fixed opposite the gripping member 105
  • a third embodiment illustrated in Figures 7 to 8f differs from the first embodiment in that the indexing of the position of the grippers 203,205 is axial.
  • the first indexing means comprises on the one hand a first pawn indexing device defined on the inner surface of the first gripping member 203, and secondly a first indexing ring 223 is adapted to be biased axially by means of an elastic member, against the first indexing pin.
  • the second indexing means comprises firstly a second indexing pin defined on the inner surface of the second gripping member 205, and secondly a second indexing ring 223b that can be axially biased by the bias of an elastic member against the second indexing pin.
  • the elastic member is common for the two indexing rings 223a, 223b and can be made in the form of a metal coil spring 225 whose diameter is adapted to be disposed on the outer surface 227 of the base 209.
  • the indexing rings 223a, 223b may comprise, for example, clipping means capable of cooperating with corresponding complementary clipping means of the base 9, for fixing the indexing rings 223a, 223b and the base 209.
  • a control module 207 is obtained whose assembly method comprises the following steps:
  • the base 209 is assembled with, on the one hand, the support 211 and, on the other hand, the spring 225 (FIG. 8a),
  • control members 213a, 213b are respectively fixed with the contacting elements 215a, 215b and the indexing means 223a, 223b (FIG.
  • control members 213a, 213b and the gripping members 203,205 are fixed indifferently,
  • the gripping member 205 is mounted to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the lever 201 (FIG. 8d), the base 209 is fixed opposite the gripping member 205 (FIG. 8e), and
  • the gripping member 203 is mounted to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the lever 201, so that the control members 213a, 213b and the indexing means 223a, 223b are symmetrically arranged on both sides other of the support 211 ( Figure 8f).
  • control module 7, 107, 207 having a single control member as shown above.
  • control module 7,107,207 can be modified in a simple and inexpensive way to adapt for example to the options chosen by the customer, even though its assembly and that of the lever 1 has already been realized.
  • control module 7, 107, 207 preferably of identical general shapes, makes it possible to reduce the costs of development and production of control module, and lever.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Steering Controls (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a control module for a lever of a control assembly under a steering wheel, comprising: - a base (9, 109, 209) to be secured to the lever and having a substrate (11, 111, 211) of contact pads having, on the two opposite surfaces (11a, 11b, 111a, 111b, 211a, 211b) thereof, first (12a, 112a, 212a) and second (12b, 112b, 212b) electric contact pads, respectively, and – a first (13a, 113a, 213a) and second (13b, 113b, 213b) control member rotatable relative to the base (9, 109, 209) and having, respectively, a first (15a, 115a, 215a) and a second (15b, 115b, 215b) contact element capable of engaging, respectively, with the first (12a, 112a, 212a) and second (12b, 112b, 212b) contact pads, the first (13a, 113a, 213a) and second (13b, 113b, 213b) control members being placed symmetrically on both sides of the contact pad substrate (11, 111, 211). The invention also relates to a lever of a control assembly under the steering wheel comprising such a control module.

Description

Module de commande pour un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous- volant, et levier associé Control module for a lever of a sub-steering control assembly, and associated lever
L'invention concerne un module de commande pour un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous-volant d'un véhicule automobile.The invention relates to a control module for a lever of a control unit under a steering wheel of a motor vehicle.
Plus précisément, la présente invention concerne un module de commande de fonctions électriques, par exemple des fonctions d'essuyage ou encore d'éclairage de véhicule automobile, pour un levier généralement disposé à proximité du volant pour permettre au conducteur un accès aisé aux fonctions électriques. De nombreux leviers ont déjà été proposés. En particulier, on connaît des leviers qui présentent le plus souvent deux organes de préhension montés à rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal du levier et permettant au conducteur du véhicule de sélectionner une fonction électrique en tournant un organe de préhension pour transformer les différents mouvements de ces organes de préhension en signaux de commande pour l'actionnement de la fonction électrique sélectionnée par le conducteur.More specifically, the present invention relates to a control module for electrical functions, for example wiping functions or motor vehicle lighting, for a lever generally disposed near the steering wheel to allow the driver easy access to electrical functions . Many levers have already been proposed. In particular, levers are known that most often have two gripping members rotatably mounted about the longitudinal axis of the lever and allowing the driver of the vehicle to select an electrical function by turning a gripping member to transform the different movements of the lever. these gripping members in control signals for actuating the electrical function selected by the driver.
Généralement, la configuration électrique et mécanique de tels leviers diffère pour les différentes commandes de fonctions électriques, et également d'un constructeur à un autre, ce qui engendre un certain coût.Generally, the electrical and mechanical configuration of such levers differs for the different commands of electrical functions, and also from one manufacturer to another, which generates a certain cost.
L'assemblage des leviers de commande connus est alors souvent fastidieux, long et coûteux.The assembly of the known control levers is then often tedious, long and expensive.
En outre, dans le domaine automobile, on a constaté depuis de nombreuses années que les véhicules sont de plus en plus personnalisés au niveau de leur équipement et que certaines options du véhicule, notamment concernant les commandes sous volant, sont choisies par le client au dernier moment de l'assemblage du véhicule. II est alors nécessaire de pouvoir proposer des leviers de commande adaptés en fonction des souhaits du client.In addition, in the automotive field, it has been noted for many years that vehicles are more and more personalized in their equipment and that certain vehicle options, particularly concerning the controls under the steering wheel, are chosen by the customer at the last moment of assembly of the vehicle. It is then necessary to be able to propose control levers adapted according to the wishes of the customer.
L'invention a donc pour but de pallier ces inconvénients de l'art antérieur en proposant un module de commande pour un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous- volant ayant une grande modularité, et permettant un assemblage simplifié et moins coûteux pour les différentes fonctions électriques, tout en permettant de satisfaire les différents cahiers de charges des constructeurs. À cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un module de commande pour un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous-volant caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte :The invention therefore aims to overcome these drawbacks of the prior art by providing a control module for a lever of a sub-steering control assembly having a high degree of modularity, and allowing a simplified and less expensive assembly for different electrical functions, while allowing to meet the various specifications of the manufacturers. For this purpose, the subject of the invention is a control module for a lever of a sub-steering control assembly characterized in that it comprises:
- une embase destinée à être solidaire du levier et portant un support de plages de contactage présentant sur ses deux faces opposées respectivement des premières et des secondes plages de contactage électrique, eta base intended to be secured to the lever and carrying a contact pad support having on its two opposite faces respectively first and second electric contact pads, and
- un premier et un second organe de commande susceptibles de rotation par rapport à l'embase et portant respectivement un premier et un second élément contacteur aptes à coopérer respectivement avec les premières et secondes plages de contactage, les premier et second organes de commande étant disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support de plages de contactage.- A first and a second control member rotatable relative to the base and respectively carrying a first and a second contact element capable of cooperating respectively with the first and second contact pads, the first and second control members being arranged symmetrically on both sides of the contact pad carrier.
La disposition des organes de commande de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support de plages de contactage permet d'obtenir un module de commande de grande modularité dont l'assemblage est simplifié.The arrangement of the control members symmetrically on either side of the contact pad support provides a control module of high modularity whose assembly is simplified.
De plus, le module peut facilement être adapté en fonction des options du client même à la fin de l'assemblage du levier de commande, en modifiant ou remplaçant le support de plages de contactage, de manière à pouvoir actionner des fonctions électriques souhaitées par le client.In addition, the module can easily be adapted according to the customer's options even at the end of the assembly of the control lever, by modifying or replacing the support contact pads, so as to actuate electrical functions desired by the customer.
Le module de commande peut en outre comporter une ou plusieurs caractéristiques suivantes, prises séparément ou en combinaison : - les premier et second organes de commande présentent une forme générale identique, ce qui permet de diminuer les coûts de fabrication et simplifier l'assemblage du module de commande,The control module may further comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in combination: the first and second control members have an identical general shape, which makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing costs and simplify the assembly of the module control,
- le support de plages de contactage est réalisée sous la forme d'une carte à circuits imprimés, de préférence sous la forme d'un insert surmoulé permettant de changer facilement le circuit en fonction des options choisies par le client,the contact pad support is in the form of a printed circuit board, preferably in the form of an overmoulded insert making it possible to easily change the circuit according to the options chosen by the customer,
- les premier et second éléments contacteurs comportent respectivement un moyen d'encliquetage pour être fixés de manière amovible avec respectivement le premier et le second organe de commande, ce qui permet d'obtenir un module de commande facilement modulable, - au moins un élément contacteur est un élément contacteur à courant fort permettant de fournir de l'énergie électrique notamment destinée à des fonctions d'éclairage, de chauffage et de force motrice,the first and second contacting elements respectively comprise a detent means for detachably fixing with the first and second control members respectively, which makes it possible to obtain an easily modulatable control module; at least one contactor element; is a high current contactor element to supply electrical energy, in particular for lighting, heating and motive power functions,
- au moins un élément contacteur est un élément contacteur à courant faible visant à diffuser, recueillir ou échanger de l'information sous forme de signaux électriques, - l'élément contacteur présente une forme générale d'arc de cercle qui comporte au moins deux branches flexibles dont les extrémités sont aptes à établir deux contacts électriques simultanés pour garantir la transmission d'un signal électrique, lesdites branches s'étendant à partir d'une base centrale,at least one contactor element is a low-current contactor element intended to diffuse, collect or exchange information in the form of electrical signals; the contactor element has a general shape of an arc of circle which comprises at least two branches; hoses whose ends are able to establish two simultaneous electrical contacts to ensure the transmission of an electrical signal, said branches extending from a central base,
- le module comporte des premier et second moyens d'indexage pour indexer respectivement les positions de premier et second organes de préhension solidaires respectivement des premier et second organes de commande, les premier et second moyens d'indexage étant agencés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support de plages de contactage, pour un assemblage simple du module de commande,the module comprises first and second indexing means for respectively indexing the positions of first and second gripping members respectively integral with the first and second control members, the first and second indexing means being arranged symmetrically on the one hand and other contact pads support, for a simple assembly of the control module,
- les premier et second moyens d'indexage comportent d'une part respectivement des premières et secondes rampes d'indexage et d'autre part respectivement des premiers et seconds plongeurs destinés à être sollicités radialement par le biais d'organes élastiques, respectivement contre les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage,the first and second indexing means comprise on the one hand respectively first and second indexing ramps and, on the other hand respectively, first and second plungers intended to be biased radially by means of elastic members, respectively against first and second indexing ramps,
- les premiers et seconds plongeurs sont portés par l'embase et les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage sont formées respectivement dans les premier et second organes de préhension,the first and second plungers are carried by the base and the first and second indexing ramps are formed respectively in the first and second gripping members,
- les premiers et seconds plongeurs sont portés respectivement par les premier et second organes de commande et en ce que les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage sont formées dans l'embase,the first and second plungers are carried respectively by the first and second control members and in that the first and second indexing ramps are formed in the base,
- les premier et second moyens d'indexage comportent d'une part respectivement des premier et second pions d'indexage et d'autre part respectivement une première et une seconde bagues d'indexage aptes à être sollicitées axialement par le biais d'un organe élastique, respectivement contre les premier et second pions d'indexage,the first and second indexing means comprise respectively first and second indexing pins and secondly respectively a first and a second indexing ring capable of being axially biased through an organ elastically, respectively against the first and second indexing pins,
- les premier et second pions d'indexage sont formés respectivement dans les premier et second organes de préhension et les première et seconde bagues d'indexage sont aptes à être fixées sur l'embase. L'invention concerne également un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous- volant caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un module de commande selon l'invention.- The first and second indexing pins are formed respectively in the first and second gripping members and the first and second indexing rings are adapted to be fixed on the base. The invention also relates to a lever of a sub-steering control assembly characterized in that it comprises a control module according to the invention.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description suivante, donnée à titre d'exemple, sans caractère limitatif, en regard des dessins annexés sur lesquels :Other features and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description given by way of example, without limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
- la figure 1 illustre un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous volant,FIG. 1 illustrates a lever of a control assembly under a steering wheel,
- les figures 2a et 2b représentent des vues en coupe d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un levier selon l'invention,FIGS. 2a and 2b show sectional views of a first embodiment of a lever according to the invention,
- les figures 3a à 3f illustrent de façon schématique les étapes d'un procédé d'assemblage d'un module de commande du levier des figures 2a et 2b,FIGS. 3a to 3f schematically illustrate the steps of a method of assembling a lever control module of FIGS. 2a and 2b,
- la figure 4 illustre un élément contacteur selon l'invention,FIG. 4 illustrates a contactor element according to the invention,
- la figure 5 est une vue en coupe d'un second mode de réalisation d'un levier selon l'invention,FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a second embodiment of a lever according to the invention,
- la figure 6 représente un organe de commande du levier de la figure 5, - la figure 7 est une vue en coupe d'un troisième exemple de réalisation d'un levier selon l'invention,etFIG. 6 represents a control member of the lever of FIG. 5; FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a third embodiment of a lever according to the invention, and
- les figures 8a à 8f illustrent de façon schématique les étapes d'un procédé d'assemblage d'un module de commande du levier de la figure 7.FIGS. 8a to 8f schematically illustrate the steps of a method of assembling a control module of the lever of FIG. 7.
Pour plus de clarté, les éléments des figures 5 et 6, respectivement des figures 7 à 8f, correspondants aux éléments des figures 1 à 4, portent les mêmes références précédées de la centaine 1, respectivement de la centaine 2. De ce fait ces éléments ne seront pas à nouveau décrits.For the sake of clarity, the elements of FIGS. 5 and 6, respectively of FIGS. 7 to 8f, corresponding to the elements of FIGS. 1 to 4, bear the same references preceded by the one hundred 1, respectively of the one hundred one. will not be described again.
Classiquement, dans un ensemble de commande sous volant d'un véhicule automobile, un support central relié à la colonne de direction comporte latéralement deux leviers.Conventionally, in a control assembly under the steering wheel of a motor vehicle, a central support connected to the steering column has laterally two levers.
Sur la figure 1, on a représenté un levier 1 ayant un axe longitudinal Al, et un premier 3 et un second 5 organes de préhension, concentriques montés à rotation autour de l'axe Al.In Figure 1, there is shown a lever 1 having a longitudinal axis A1, and a first 3 and a second 5 concentric grippers mounted rotatably about the axis Al.
Ces organes de préhension 3,5 sont aptes à être tournés par le conducteur du véhicule pour sélectionner des fonctions électriques concernant par exemple l'éclairage (allumage des feux) ou l'essuyage (vitesse des essuie-glaces).These gripping members 3,5 are able to be rotated by the driver of the vehicle to select electrical functions concerning, for example, the lighting (lighting the lights) or wiping (speed of the wipers).
Ces fonctions électriques peuvent varier en fonction des constructeurs et des options choisies par le client, on peut citer par exemple des fonctions électriques pour le fonctionnement de la radio ou d'un dispositif multimédia. Généralement, ces différentes fonctions sont identifiées sur les organes de préhension 3,5 par un ou plusieurs symboles, de manière à permettre au conducteur une localisation aisée de ces fonctions.These electrical functions may vary depending on the manufacturers and options chosen by the customer, there may be mentioned for example electrical functions for the operation of the radio or a multimedia device. Generally, these various functions are identified on the gripping members 3,5 by one or more symbols, so as to allow the driver easy location of these functions.
Cependant, l'aspect et la forme des organes de préhension 3,5 sont classiquement propres à chaque constructeur et peuvent varier d'un levier à un autre.However, the appearance and shape of the gripping members 3,5 are classically specific to each manufacturer and may vary from one lever to another.
Selon un premier mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 2a à 4, le levier 1 comporte un module de commande 7 apte à être actionné lorsqu'un organe de préhension 3,5 est tourné pour sélectionner une fonction électrique et apte à transformer le mouvement de l'organe de préhension 3,5 tourné en signaux de commande permettant l'actionnement de la fonction sélectionnée.According to a first embodiment illustrated in Figures 2a to 4, the lever 1 comprises a control module 7 adapted to be actuated when a gripping member 3,5 is rotated to select an electrical function and able to transform the movement of the gripping member 3,5 turned into control signals for actuating the selected function.
Pour cela, le module de commande 7 comporte une embase 9 destinée à être solidaire du levier 1 et agencée entre les deux organes de préhension 3,5.For this, the control module 7 comprises a base 9 intended to be integral with the lever 1 and arranged between the two gripping members 3.5.
Cette embase 9 peut présenter une forme cylindrique permettant de simplifier l'agencement de l'embase 9 entre les organes de préhension 3 et 5 disposés de façon concentrique.This base 9 may have a cylindrical shape for simplifying the arrangement of the base 9 between the gripping members 3 and 5 arranged concentrically.
De plus, l'embase 9 porte un support 11 de plages de contactage qui présente sur une première face lia des premières 12a plages de contactage électrique, et sur une seconde face 11b opposée à la première face l ia des secondes 12b plages de contactage électrique.In addition, the base 9 carries a support 11 of contact pads which has on a first face 11a of the first 12a electrical contact pads, and on a second face 11b opposite the first face 11a seconds 12b electrical contact pads .
Le module de commande 7 comporte en outre un premier 13a et un second 13b organes de commande destinés à être solidaires respectivement des premier 3 et second 5 organes de préhension et susceptibles de rotation par rapport à l'embase 9.The control module 7 further comprises a first 13a and a second 13b control members intended to be secured respectively to the first 3 and second 5 gripping members and rotatable relative to the base 9.
Le premier organe de commande 13a (respectivement le second organe de commande 13b) porte un premier élément contacteur 15a (respectivement un second élément contacteur 15b) disposé en regard des premières plages de contactage 12aThe first control member 13a (respectively the second control member 13b) carries a first contactor element 15a (respectively a second contactor element 15b) disposed opposite the first contacting pads 12a.
(respectivement des secondes plages de contactage 12b) et apte à coopérer avec les premières plages de contactage 12a (respectivement les secondes plages de contactage 12b) pour établir des contacts électriques en fonction du déplacement de l'organe de commande 13a (respectivement 13b).(respectively second contact pads 12b) and adapted to cooperate with the first contact pads 12a (respectively the second contact pads 12b) to establish electrical contacts according to the displacement of the control member 13a (respectively 13b).
Les premier 15a et second 15b éléments contacteurs coopèrent alors avec des plages de contactage 12a, 12b portées par un support 11 de plages de contactage commun.The first 15a and second 15b contactor elements then cooperate with contact pads 12a, 12b carried by a support 11 of common contact pads.
En outre, les premier 13a et second 13b organes de commande sont disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support 11 de plages de contactage et présentent de préférence une forme générale identique, ce qui permet de diminuer les coûts de fabrication puisqu'un seul moule peut suffire pour de multiples organes de commande, et de simplifier l'assemblage du module de commande 7, et du levier 1 qui le contient.In addition, the first 13a and second 13b control members are arranged symmetrically on either side of the support 11 of contact pads and preferably have a generally identical shape, which reduces the manufacturing costs since a single mold can suffice for multiple control members, and simplify the assembly of the control module 7, and the lever 1 which contains it.
Ces organes de commande 13a, 13b peuvent alors être montés solidaires en rotation avec l'un ou l'autre des deux organes de préhension 3,5, ce qui permet de définir des organes de commande standards adaptés à plusieurs organes de préhension.These control members 13a, 13b can then be mounted integral in rotation with one or the other of the two gripping members 3,5, which allows to define standard control members adapted to several gripping members.
Bien entendu, l'assemblage du module de commande peut être automatisé. De façon avantageuse, le support 11 de plages de contactage est réalisé sous la forme d'une carte à circuits imprimés, en anglais « PCB » pour « Printed Circuit Board » de préférence sous la forme d'un insert surmoulé, ce qui permet de changer facilement le circuit en fonction des options choisies par le client, sans avoir à changer tout le module de commande 7, ce qui procure une plus grande modularité du module de commande 7.Of course, the assembly of the control module can be automated. Advantageously, the support 11 of contact pads is made in the form of a printed circuit board, in English "PCB" for "Printed Circuit Board" preferably in the form of an overmoulded insert, which makes it possible to easily change the circuit according to the options chosen by the customer, without having to change the entire control module 7, which provides a greater modularity of the control module 7.
Ce support comprend en outre des connecteurs non représentés pour la liaison électrique des circuits avec le faisceau électrique du véhicule.This support also comprises unrepresented connectors for the electrical connection of the circuits with the electrical harness of the vehicle.
Comme on le constate sur la figure 4, un élément contacteur 15a, 15b comporte un moyen d'encliquetage 16 pour être fixé de manière amovible avec un organe de commande 13a, 13b, ajoutant encore une souplesse à la réalisation au module de commande 7.As can be seen in FIG. 4, a contactor element 15a, 15b comprises a latching means 16 for being removably attached to a control member 13a, 13b, further adding flexibility to the embodiment at the control module 7.
Pour cela, le moyen d'encliquetage 16 de l'élément contacteur 15a, 15b est apte à coopérer avec un moyen d'encliquetage correspondant d'un organe de commandeFor this, the latching means 16 of the contactor element 15a, 15b is able to cooperate with a corresponding latching means of a control member.
13a, 13b avec lequel l'élément contacteur 15a, 15b doit être fixé. Par exemple, on peut prévoir que le moyen d'encliquetage 16 est formé par un crochet élastique apte à coopérer avec une protubérance d'accrochage d'un organe de commande 13 a, 13b.13a, 13b with which the contactor element 15a, 15b must be fixed. For example, it can be provided that the snap-fastening means 16 is formed by an elastic hook adapted to cooperate with a hooking protrusion of a control member 13a, 13b.
Ainsi l'élément contacteur 15 a, 15b est facilement interchangeable, et en fonction des options choisies par le client, on peut avantageusement prévoir aussi bien un élément contacteur à courant fort qu'un élément contacteur à courant faible. On désigne par courant fort, un courant apte à fournir de l'énergie électrique notamment destinée à des fonctions d'éclairage, de chauffage et de force motrice (lampes, résistances, moteurs). Les courants mis en cause sont de l'ordre de quelques mA à plusieurs A.Thus the contactor element 15a, 15b is easily interchangeable, and depending on the options chosen by the customer, one can advantageously provide both a high current contactor element a low current contactor element. High current designates a current capable of supplying electrical energy, in particular for lighting, heating and motive power functions (lamps, resistors, motors). The currents involved are of the order of a few mA to several A.
En revanche, on désigne par courant faible, un courant visant à diffuser, recueillir ou échanger de l'information sous forme de signaux électriques. Les courants mis en cause sont parfois très faibles (quelques mA à quelques μA).On the other hand, a weak current designates a current intended to diffuse, collect or exchange information in the form of electrical signals. The currents involved are sometimes very weak (a few mA to a few μA).
On comprend donc que les performances exigées, notamment au niveau de la résistance mécanique et électrique, ne sont pas les mêmes pour un élément contacteur à courant fort ou à courant faible. Par ailleurs, on peut prévoir que les éléments contacteurs 15a, 15b présentent une forme générale d'arc de cercle, adaptée à la forme cylindrique de l'embase 9.It is therefore understood that the required performance, particularly in terms of mechanical and electrical resistance, are not the same for a contactor element with high current or low current. Moreover, it can be provided that the contacting elements 15a, 15b have a general shape of an arc of a circle, adapted to the cylindrical shape of the base 9.
Lorsqu'il s'agit d'un élément contacteur à courant faible, l'élément contacteur 15a, 15b présente de préférence au moins deux branches flexibles 17 dont les extrémités sont aptes à établir deux contacts électriques simultanés. Les contacts simultanés permettent par exemple en cas de poussière ou d'obstacle sur une branche 17 d'assurer la transmission d'un signal électrique, permettant ainsi d'augmenter la fiabilité du module de commande.In the case of a low current contactor element, the contactor element 15a, 15b preferably has at least two flexible branches 17 whose ends are able to establish two simultaneous electrical contacts. The simultaneous contacts allow for example in case of dust or obstacle on a branch 17 to ensure the transmission of an electrical signal, thus increasing the reliability of the control module.
Dans l'exemple illustré sur la figure 4, l'élément contacteur 15a, 15b comporte quatre branches flexibles 17 dont les extrémités sont aptes à établir quatre contacts simultanés.In the example illustrated in Figure 4, the contactor element 15a, 15b comprises four flexible branches 17 whose ends are able to establish four simultaneous contacts.
De plus, chaque branche 17 comporte deux bras contacteurs 19a, 19b aptes à établir les contacts électriques avec les plages de contactage 12a, 12b associées.In addition, each branch 17 comprises two contact arms 19a, 19b adapted to establish the electrical contacts with the associated contact pads 12a, 12b.
Plus précisément, chaque branche 17 comporte au moins deux bras contacteursMore specifically, each branch 17 has at least two contact arms
19a, 19b et chaque branche 17 ou bras contacteur 19a, 19b possède une extrémité galbée, apte à établir un contact électrique avec des plages de contactage 12a, 12b correspondantes .19a, 19b and each branch 17 or contactor arm 19a, 19b has a curved end, adapted to establish electrical contact with contact pads 12a, 12b corresponding.
En outre, les branches 17 s'étendent à partir d'une base 21 centrale qui porte judicieusement le moyen d'encliquetage 16 pour fixer de manière amovible l'élément contacteur 15 a, 15b et l'organe de commande 13 a, 13b. Par ailleurs, le module de commande 7 comporte également des premier et second moyens d'indexage pour indexer respectivement les positions des premier 3 et second 5 organes de préhension.In addition, the legs 17 extend from a central base 21 which suitably carries the latching means 16 to removably attach the contact member 15a, 15b and the control member 13a, 13b. Furthermore, the control module 7 also comprises first and second indexing means for respectively indexing the positions of the first 3 and second 5 gripping members.
En outre, ces premier 23 a et second 23b moyens d'indexage sont agencés de façon symétrique respectivement de part et d'autre du support 11 de plages de contactage, et sont de préférence de structure identique, ce qui permet un assemblage simple et peu coûteux du module de commande 7 et du levier 1 qui le contient.In addition, these first 23a and second 23b indexing means are arranged symmetrically respectively on either side of the support 11 of contact pads, and are preferably of identical structure, which allows a simple assembly and little expensive control module 7 and lever 1 which contains it.
En référence aux figures 2a à 3f, les premier et second moyens d'indexage permettent respectivement un indexage radial des positions des premier 3 et second 5 organes de préhension. Plus précisément, le premier moyen d'indexage comporte :With reference to FIGS. 2a to 3f, the first and second indexing means respectively allow radial indexing of the positions of the first 3 and second 5 gripping members. More specifically, the first indexing means comprises:
- d'une part des premières rampes d'indexage définies par un profil évolutif sur la surface interne du premier organe de préhension 3, eton the one hand, the first indexing ramps defined by an evolutive profile on the inner surface of the first gripping member 3, and
- d'autre part des premiers plongeurs 23a portés par l'embase 9 et destinés à être sollicités radialement par le biais d'organes élastiques associés, contre les premières rampes d'indexage.- On the other hand first divers 23a carried by the base 9 and intended to be solicited radially through the associated elastic members, against the first indexing ramps.
De même, le second moyen d'indexage comporte :Likewise, the second indexing means comprises:
- d'une part des secondes rampes d'indexage définies par un profil évolutif sur la surface interne du second organe de préhension 5, eton the one hand, second indexing ramps defined by an evolutive profile on the inner surface of the second gripping member 5, and
- d'autre part des seconds plongeurs 23b portés par l'embase 9 et destinés à être sollicités radialement par le biais d'organes élastiques associés, contre les secondes rampes d'indexage.on the other hand second plungers 23b carried by the base 9 and intended to be radially stressed by means of associated elastic members, against the second indexing ramps.
De préférence, les organes élastiques sont réalisés sous la forme de ressorts 25 agencés dans l'embase 9.Preferably, the elastic members are made in the form of springs 25 arranged in the base 9.
Pour cela, on peut prévoir que l'embase 9 est réalisée sous la forme de deux parties distinctes 9a,9b équipées respectivement de logements 29a,29b destinés à recevoir respectivement les plongeurs 23a,23b et les ressorts 25 associés.For this purpose, it is possible to provide that the base 9 is made in the form of two distinct parts 9a, 9b respectively equipped with housings 29a, 29b intended to respectively receive the plungers 23a, 23b and the associated springs 25.
Dans ce cas, on obtient un module de commande 7 dont le procédé d'assemblage comporte les étapes suivantes :In this case, a control module 7 is obtained whose assembly method comprises the following steps:
- on fixe les éléments contacteurs 15 a, 15b aux organes de commande 13 a, 13b (figure 3 a),the contacting elements 15a, 15b are fixed to the control members 13a, 13b (FIG. 3a),
- on monte les premier 23 a et second 23b moyens d'indexage et les ressorts 25 associés respectivement dans les logements 29a,29b(figure 3b),the first 23a and second 23b indexing means and the associated springs 25 are respectively mounted in the housings 29a, 29b (FIG. 3b),
- on assemble le second organe de commande 13b et la seconde partie 9b d'embase (figure 3c), - on fixe le support 11 sur la seconde partie d'embase 9b, de sorte que les secondes plages de contactage 12b sont en regard de l'élément contacteur 15b (figure 3d),the second control member 13b and the second base portion 9b are assembled (FIG. 3c), the support 11 is fixed on the second base portion 9b, so that the second contacting areas 12b are opposite the contactor element 15b (FIG. 3d),
- on assemble le premier organe de commande 13a et la seconde partie 9b d'embase, de sorte que les premières plages de contactage 12a sont en regard de l'élément contacteur 15a et que les deux organes de commande 13a, 13b sont disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support 11 (figure 3e), etthe first control member 13a and the second base portion 9b are assembled so that the first contact areas 12a are opposite the contactor element 15a and the two control members 13a and 13b are arranged in such a way that symmetrical on either side of the support 11 (Figure 3e), and
- on assemble la première partie 9a d'embase et la seconde partie 9b d'embase, de sorte que les moyens d'indexage 23a,23b sont disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support 11 (figure 3f).the first base portion 9a and the second base portion 9b are assembled, so that the indexing means 23a, 23b are symmetrically disposed on either side of the support 11 (FIG. 3f).
Les organes de préhension 3,5 sont ensuite fixés indifféremment aux organes de commande 13a, 13b, puis l'ensemble ainsi formé est monté sur le levier 1 (voir figuresThe gripping members 3,5 are then attached indifferently to the control members 13a, 13b, and the assembly thus formed is mounted on the lever 1 (see FIGS.
2a,2b), tel que les organes de préhension 3,5 soient mobiles en rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal du levier 1. Un second mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 5 et 6, diffère du premier mode de réalisation par le fait que :2a, 2b), such that the gripping members 3,5 are rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the lever 1. A second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, differs from the first embodiment in that than :
- les premier 123a et second 123b plongeurs sont portés respectivement par les premier 113a et second 113b organes de commande etthe first 123a and second 123b divers are carried respectively by the first 113a and second 113b control members and
- les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage sont définies par un profil évolutif sur la surface interne de l'embase 109. Dans ce cas, les premier 123a et second 123b plongeurs sont destinés à être sollicités radialement par le biais d'organes élastiques associés, par exemple des ressorts, respectivement contre les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage de l'embasethe first and second indexing ramps are defined by an evolutive profile on the inner surface of the base 109. In this case, the first 123a and second 123b plungers are intended to be biased radially by means of associated elastic members, for example springs, respectively against the first and second indexing ramps of the baseplate.
109, pour indexer respectivement les positions des premier 103 et second 105 organes de préhension.109, for respectively indexing the positions of the first 103 and second 105 gripping members.
On peut prévoir que l'organe de commande 113a,113b présente des logements 129a, 129b aptes à recevoir respectivement les plongeurs 123a, 123b et les ressorts associés.It can be provided that the control member 113a, 113b has housings 129a, 129b able respectively to receive the plungers 123a, 123b and the associated springs.
On obtient ainsi un organe standard de contactage et d'indexage formé par l'organe de commande 113a, 113b, apte à être agencé dans tout module de commande pour levier d'un ensemble de commande sous-volant.This produces a standard contact and indexing member formed by the control member 113a, 113b, adapted to be arranged in any lever control module of a sub-steering control assembly.
En outre, les rampes d'indexage étant définies sur l'embase 109, il n'est plus nécessaire de changer tous les organes de préhension pour modifier le retour haptique lorsqu'une une fonction électrique est sélectionnée mais on ne change plus qu'une seule pièce : l'embase.In addition, the indexing ramps being defined on the base 109, it is no longer necessary to change all the gripping members to change the haptic feedback when an electrical function is selected but it changes only one only part: the base.
On obtient alors un module de commande 107 dont le procédé d'assemblage comporte les étapes suivantes :A control module 107 is thus obtained whose assembly method comprises the following steps:
- on assemble l'embase 109 et le support 111,the base 109 and the support 111 are assembled,
- on fixe indifféremment les organes standards de contactage et d'indexage 113a, 113b et les organes de préhension 103,105,the standard contacting and indexing members 113a, 113b and the gripping members 103, 105 are fixed indifferently,
- on monte l'organe de préhension 105 à rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal du levier 101,the gripping member 105 is mounted to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the lever 101,
- on fixe l'embase 109 en regard de l'organe de préhension 105,the base 109 is fixed opposite the gripping member 105,
- on monte l'organe de préhension 103 à rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal, de sorte que les organes standards de contactage et d'indexage 113a,113b sont disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support 111. En variante, un troisième mode de réalisation illustré sur les figures 7 à 8f, diffère du premier mode de réalisation par le fait que l'indexage de la position des organes de préhension 203,205 est axial. Dans ce cas, le premier moyen d'indexage comporte d'une part un premier pion d'indexage défini sur la surface interne du premier organe de préhension 203, et d'autre part une première bague d'indexage 223 a apte à être sollicitée axialement par le biais d'un organe élastique, contre le premier pion d'indexage.the gripping member 103 is mounted to rotate around the longitudinal axis, so that the standard contacting and indexing members 113a, 113b are symmetrically disposed on either side of the support 111. In a variant , a third embodiment illustrated in Figures 7 to 8f, differs from the first embodiment in that the indexing of the position of the grippers 203,205 is axial. In this case, the first indexing means comprises on the one hand a first pawn indexing device defined on the inner surface of the first gripping member 203, and secondly a first indexing ring 223 is adapted to be biased axially by means of an elastic member, against the first indexing pin.
De même, le second moyen d'indexage comporte d'une part un second pion d'indexage défini sur la surface interne du second organe de préhension 205, et d'autre part une seconde bague d'indexage 223b apte à être sollicitée axialement par le biais d'un organe élastique, contre le second pion d'indexage.Similarly, the second indexing means comprises firstly a second indexing pin defined on the inner surface of the second gripping member 205, and secondly a second indexing ring 223b that can be axially biased by the bias of an elastic member against the second indexing pin.
De façon préférée, l'organe élastique est commun pour les deux bagues d'indexage 223a,223b et peut être réalisé sous la forme d'un ressort hélicoïdal métallique 225 dont le diamètre est adapté pour être disposé sur la surface extérieure 227 de l'embase 209.Preferably, the elastic member is common for the two indexing rings 223a, 223b and can be made in the form of a metal coil spring 225 whose diameter is adapted to be disposed on the outer surface 227 of the base 209.
Les bagues d'indexage 223a,223b peuvent comporter par exemple des moyens de clipsage aptes à coopérer avec des moyens de clipsage correspondants complémentaires de l'embase 9, pour fixer les bagues d'indexage 223a,223b et l'embase 209.The indexing rings 223a, 223b may comprise, for example, clipping means capable of cooperating with corresponding complementary clipping means of the base 9, for fixing the indexing rings 223a, 223b and the base 209.
De plus, on peut prévoir que les bagues d'indexage 223a,223b possèdent respectivement sur l'une de leur tranche transversale perpendiculaire à l'axe Al, un profil évolutif définissant des rampes d'indexage qui coopèrent avec les premier et second pions d'indexage. Selon ce troisième mode de réalisation, on obtient un module de commande 207 dont le procédé d'assemblage comporte les étapes suivantes :In addition, it can be provided that the indexing rings 223a, 223b respectively have on one of their transverse edge perpendicular to the axis Al, an evolutive profile defining indexing ramps which cooperate with the first and second pins of 'indexing. According to this third embodiment, a control module 207 is obtained whose assembly method comprises the following steps:
- on assemble l'embase 209 avec d'une part le support 211 et d'autre part le ressort 225 (figure 8a),the base 209 is assembled with, on the one hand, the support 211 and, on the other hand, the spring 225 (FIG. 8a),
- on fixe respectivement les organes de commande 213a,213b avec les éléments contacteurs 215a,215b et les moyens d'indexage 223a,223b (figurethe control members 213a, 213b are respectively fixed with the contacting elements 215a, 215b and the indexing means 223a, 223b (FIG.
8b),8b)
- on fixe indifféremment les organes de commande 213a,213b et les organes de préhension 203,205 (figure 8c),the control members 213a, 213b and the gripping members 203,205 (FIG. 8c) are fixed indifferently,
- on monte l'organe de préhension 205 à rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal du levier 201 (figure 8d), - on fixe l'embase 209 en regard de l'organe de préhension 205 (figure 8e), etthe gripping member 205 is mounted to rotate around the longitudinal axis of the lever 201 (FIG. 8d), the base 209 is fixed opposite the gripping member 205 (FIG. 8e), and
- on monte l'organe de préhension 203 à rotation autour de l'axe longitudinal du levier 201, de sorte que les organes de commande 213a,213b et les moyens d'indexage 223a,223b sont disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support 211 (figure 8f).the gripping member 203 is mounted to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the lever 201, so that the control members 213a, 213b and the indexing means 223a, 223b are symmetrically arranged on both sides other of the support 211 (Figure 8f).
Bien entendu, on peut prévoir un module de commande 7,107,207 présentant un seul organe de commande tel que présenté ci-dessus.Of course, it is possible to provide a control module 7, 107, 207 having a single control member as shown above.
On comprend donc qu'un tel module de commande 7,107,207 peut être modifié de façon simple et peu coûteuse pour s'adapter par exemple aux options choisies par le client, alors même que son assemblage et celui du levier 1 a déjà été réalisé.It is therefore understood that such a control module 7,107,207 can be modified in a simple and inexpensive way to adapt for example to the options chosen by the customer, even though its assembly and that of the lever 1 has already been realized.
En outre, l'agencement symétrique des éléments du module de commande 7,107,207, de préférence de formes générales identiques, permettent de réduire les coûts de développement et de production de module de commande, et de levier.In addition, the symmetrical arrangement of the elements of the control module 7, 107, 207, preferably of identical general shapes, makes it possible to reduce the costs of development and production of control module, and lever.
Il est évident qu'un tel module de commande tel que décrit précédemment peut équiper tout levier d'un ensemble de commande sous-volant. It is obvious that such a control module as described above can equip any lever of a sub-steering control assembly.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Module de commande pour un levier d'un ensemble de commande sous- volant caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte : - une embase (9,109,209) destinée à être solidaire du levier et portant un support (11,111,211) de plages de contactage présentant sur ses deux faces (lla,llb,l l la,l l lb,211a,211b) opposées respectivement des premières (12a,112a,212a) et des secondes (12b,112b,212b) plages de contactage électrique, et - un premier (13a,113a,213a) et un second (13b,113b,213b) organe de commande susceptibles de rotation par rapport à l'embase (9,109,209) et portant respectivement un premier (15a,115a,215a) et un second (15b,115b,215b) élément contacteur aptes à coopérer respectivement avec les premières (12a,112a,212a ) et secondes (12b,112b,212b) plages de contactage, les premier (13a,113a,213a) et second (13b,113b,213b) organes de commande étant disposés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support (11,111,211) de plages de contactage.1. Control module for a lever of a sub-steering control assembly characterized in that it comprises: - a base (9,109,209) intended to be secured to the lever and carrying a support (11,111,211) contact pads having on its two faces (11a, 11b, 11a, 11b, 211a, 211b) respectively opposed first (12a, 112a, 212a) and second (12b, 112b, 212b) electrical contact pads, and - a first (13a 113a, 213a) and a second (13b, 113b, 213b) control member rotatable relative to the base (9,109,209) and carrying respectively a first (15a, 115a, 215a) and a second (15b, 115b, 215b) contactor element adapted to cooperate respectively with the first (12a, 112a, 212a) and second (12b, 112b, 212b) contact pads, the first (13a, 113a, 213a) and second (13b, 113b, 213b) bodies control means being arranged symmetrically on either side of the support (11,111,211) contact pads.
2. Module selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les premier (13a,l 13a,213a) et second (13b, 113b,213b) organes de commande présentent une forme générale identique.2. Module according to claim 1, characterized in that the first (13a, 13a, 213a) and second (13b, 113b, 213b) control members have an identical general shape.
3. Module selon l'une des revendications 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que le support (11,111,211) de plages de contactage est réalisé sous la forme d'une carte à circuits imprimés, de préférence sous la forme d'un insert surmoulé.3. Module according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the support (11,111,211) contact pads is formed in the form of a printed circuit board, preferably in the form of an overmolded insert.
4. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que les premier (15a,115a,215a) et second (15b,115b,215b) éléments contacteurs comportent respectivement un moyen d'encliquetage (16) pour être fixés de manière amovible avec respectivement le premier (13a,113a,213a) et le second (13b,113b,213b) organe de commande.4. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first (15a, 115a, 215a) and second (15b, 115b, 215b) contactor elements respectively comprise a latching means (16) to be releasably secured with respectively the first (13a, 113a, 213a) and the second (13b, 113b, 213b) control member.
5. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins un élément contacteur (15a,15b,115a,115b,215a,215b) est un élément contacteur à courant fort.5. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one contactor element (15a, 15b, 115a, 115b, 215a, 215b) is a strong current contactor element.
6. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins un élément contacteur (15a,15b,115a,115b,215a,215b) est un élément contacteur à courant faible. 6. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least one contactor element (15a, 15b, 115a, 115b, 215a, 215b) is a low current contactor element.
7. Module selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que l'élément contacteur7. Module according to claim 6, characterized in that the contactor element
(15a,15b,115a,115b,215a,215b) présente une forme générale d'arc de cercle qui comporte au moins deux branches (17) flexibles dont les extrémités sont aptes à établir deux contacts électriques simultanés, lesdites branches (17) s'étendant à partir d'une base (21) centrale. (15a, 15b, 115a, 115b, 215a, 215b) has a general shape of an arc of circle which comprises at least two flexible branches (17) whose ends are able to establish two simultaneous electrical contacts, said branches (17) s extending from a central base (21).
8. Module selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte des premier et second moyens d'indexage pour indexer respectivement les positions de premier (3,103,203) et second (5,105,205) organes de préhension solidaires respectivement des premier (13a,l 13a,213a) et second (13b,113b,213b) organes de commande, les premier et second moyens d'indexage étant agencés de façon symétrique de part et d'autre du support (11, 111, 211) de plages de contactage.8. Module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises first and second indexing means for respectively indexing the positions of first (3,103,203) and second (5,105,205) respectively integral gripping members of first (13a, 13a, 213a) and second (13b, 113b, 213b) control members, the first and second indexing means being arranged symmetrically on either side of the support (11, 111, 211) contact pads.
9. Module selon la revendication 8, caractérisé en ce que les premier et second moyens d'indexage comportent d'une part respectivement des premières et secondes rampes d'indexage et d'autre part respectivement des premiers (23a,123a) et seconds (23b,123b) plongeurs destinés à être sollicités radialement par le biais d'organes élastiques, respectivement contre les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage.9. Module according to claim 8, characterized in that the first and second indexing means comprise first respectively first and second indexing ramps and second respectively first (23a, 123a) and second ( 23b, 123b) plungers intended to be biased radially by means of resilient members, respectively against the first and second indexing ramps.
10. Module selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que les premiers (23a) et seconds (23b) plongeurs sont portés par l'embase (9) et en ce que les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage sont formées respectivement dans les premier (3) et second (5) organes de préhension.10. Module according to claim 9, characterized in that the first (23a) and second (23b) plungers are carried by the base (9) and in that the first and second indexing ramps are formed respectively in the first (3) and second (5) gripping members.
11. Module selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que les premiers (123a) et seconds (123b) plongeurs sont portés respectivement par les premier (113a) et second (113b) organes de commande et en ce que les premières et secondes rampes d'indexage sont formées dans l'embase (109). 11. Module according to claim 9, characterized in that the first (123a) and second (123b) plungers are carried respectively by the first (113a) and second (113b) control members and in that the first and second ramps d indexing are formed in the base (109).
12. Module selon la revendication 8, caractérisé en ce que les premier et second moyens d'indexage comportent d'une part respectivement des premier et second pions d'indexage et d'autre part respectivement une première (223 a) et une seconde (223b) bagues d'indexage aptes à être sollicitées axialement par le biais d'un organe élastique, respectivement contre les premier et second pions d'indexage.12. Module according to claim 8, characterized in that the first and second indexing means comprise first respectively first and second indexing pins and secondly respectively a first (223 a) and a second ( 223b) indexing rings adapted to be biased axially by means of an elastic member, respectively against the first and second indexing pins.
13. Module selon la revendication 12, caractérisé en ce que les premier et second pions d'indexage sont formés respectivement dans les premier (203) et second (205) organes de préhension et en ce que les première (223a) et seconde (223b) bagues d'indexage sont aptes à être fixées sur l'embase (209).13. Module according to claim 12, characterized in that the first and second indexing pins are respectively formed in the first (203) and second (205) gripping members and in that the first (223a) and second (223b) ) indexing rings are adapted to be fixed on the base (209).
14. Levier d'un ensemble de commande sous-volant caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un module de commande conforme à l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13. 14. Lever of a sub-flying control assembly characterized in that it comprises a control module according to any one of claims 1 to 13.
EP09772560A 2008-07-03 2009-07-03 Control module for a lever of control assembly under a steering wheel, and related lever Withdrawn EP2307238A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0803771A FR2933343B1 (en) 2008-07-03 2008-07-03 CONTROL MODULE FOR A LEVER OF A STEERING CONTROL ASSEMBLY, AND ASSOCIATED LEVER
PCT/EP2009/058461 WO2010000860A1 (en) 2008-07-03 2009-07-03 Control module for a lever of control assembly under a steering wheel, and related lever

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2307238A1 true EP2307238A1 (en) 2011-04-13

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EP09772560A Withdrawn EP2307238A1 (en) 2008-07-03 2009-07-03 Control module for a lever of control assembly under a steering wheel, and related lever

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EP (1) EP2307238A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2933343B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2010000860A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP6049079B2 (en) * 2013-10-10 2016-12-21 アルプス電気株式会社 Lever switch

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5581058A (en) * 1995-02-03 1996-12-03 United Technologies Automotive, Inc. Multifunction switch stalk for controlling vehicle functions
DE19722611C1 (en) * 1997-05-30 1998-06-10 Kostal Leopold Gmbh & Co Kg Multi-function electrical switch e.g. for motor vehicle lighting
FR2816893B1 (en) * 2000-11-22 2003-05-30 Valeo Electronique AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE STEERING COLUMN TOP SWITCH HANDLE WITH ON-BOARD AUDIO DEVICE CONTROL (S) AND SWITCH HAVING SUCH A HANDLE
DE10206047C1 (en) * 2002-02-14 2003-09-25 Kostal Leopold Gmbh & Co Kg Electrical switching device for different electrical functions in automobile has movable contact parts carried by rotary ring cooperating with stationary contact surfaces of flexible circuit board
JP4011988B2 (en) * 2002-06-25 2007-11-21 ナイルス株式会社 Vehicle switch
DE10242253A1 (en) * 2002-09-12 2004-03-25 Leopold Kostal Gmbh & Co. Kg Electrical switching device
DE502005004044D1 (en) * 2005-11-05 2008-06-19 Delphi Tech Inc Electrical switching device

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See also references of WO2010000860A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2933343B1 (en) 2011-01-07
FR2933343A1 (en) 2010-01-08
WO2010000860A1 (en) 2010-01-07

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