Tesla, Inc.
STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY

Abstract:

A steering wheel assembly includes a steering rim and a steering housing connected to the steering rim. The steering wheel assembly also includes at least one pressure sensitive component disposed within the steering housing. The at least one pressure sensitive component generates electric signals in response to force applied on the steering housing. The at least one pressure sensitive component may include any one of at least one piezoelectric switch, a piezoelectric sensor, and a capacitive array. Further, at least one pressure sensitive component may provide a haptic feedback. Additionally, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) disposed within the steering housing is electrically connected to the at least one pressure sensitive component. The PCB includes a controller that determines a user input or a gesture made by a user on the steering housing based on the electric signals received from the at least one pressure sensitive component.