Switch assembly for an airbag module attachment

US6860509B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• KEY SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC. · US

Inventors

• Xiaoping Xu · Beijing, CN
• Jason Luo · Troy, US
• Adolfo Ridolfi · Verona, IT
• Federico Girardi · Verona, IT
• Giuseppe Testa · San Bonifacio, IT

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 13, 2003
• Grant date: Mar 1, 2005
• Expiry date: Apr 18, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60Q5/003
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A vehicle steering wheel assembly having a molded armature with outwardly extending spokes for mounting on a steering column. Airbag module engagement members extend from an airbag module housing to engage corresponding armature engagement members. The airbag module rests on a multiple of switch assemblies while the engagement members are separated by a clearance. The engagement members are only in contact if the airbag is fired. A clearance between each armature engagement member and each corresponding airbag module engagement member assures that there is no interference that may result in undesirable noise or vibration.