DE102017115574A1 - Device for stepless locking of a vehicle door - Google Patents

Abstract

Vehicle doors are connected via at least one hinge pivotally connected to the vehicle body, wherein the vehicle door can be locked in different positions by means of a locking device.
For this purpose, a device 4 for stepless locking of a vehicle door 2, with a door holding unit 5 for attachment to a vehicle body 3, with a support unit 6 for attachment to the vehicle door 2, with a locking unit 7, wherein the locking unit 7 is connected to the carrier unit 6, wherein the door holding unit 5 is movable relative to the locking unit 7, the locking unit 7 having a first friction coupling portion 13a and the door holding unit 5 having a second friction coupling portion 13b, the first and second friction coupling portions 13a, b together forming a friction clutch 13, and wherein the locking unit 7 has a Verstellaktuatorik 12 for adjusting the frictional force of the friction clutch 13, so that the door holding unit 5 relative to the locking unit 7 in different positions along a Arretierungsstrecke AS can be locked, proposed, wherein the Verstellaktuatorik 12 at least two clamps With a displacement of the first clamping plate 23a relative to the second clamping plate 23b, a linear movement can be generated and transmitted to the friction clutch 13, so that the frictional force of the friction clutch 13 is adjustable.

Description

The invention relates to a device for stepless locking of a vehicle door with the features of the preamble of claim 1.

Vehicle doors are connected via at least one hinge pivotally connected to the vehicle body, wherein by means of a locking device, the vehicle door usually engages, for example, in two or three predetermined positions. Furthermore, systems are known from the prior art, which allow a stepless determination of the vehicle door, so that the vehicle door is held in any opening positions. For this purpose, in particular stepless mechanical door retainers are known, which hold the door in the desired position via a frictional engagement.

The publication DE 199 06 708 A1 , which is probably the closest prior art, describes a mechanical door lock for vehicle doors with a hinged door pillar on the door pillar and a holder housing arranged on the door, in which a holding device with a housing-fixed abutment on the one and a spring-loaded, perpendicular to the handle bar movement direction movable Holding body is arranged on the other side of the door retaining bar, wherein in the holder housing, a driver is arranged, which engages with a sliding member on the door retaining rod and on which a trigger lever is articulated, wherein on the holder housing an amplifier lever is rotatably mounted, on which the holding body rotatably is mounted and on which the release lever engages such that upon opening or closing the vehicle door of the moving together with the door retaining rod driver pivots the amplifier lever in the release position of the holding body.

The invention has for its object to provide a device for stepless locking a vehicle door, which has an improved performance.

This object is achieved by a step mechanism with the features of claim 1. Preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the following description and / or the accompanying figures.

The invention relates to a device for continuously locking a vehicle door, which is suitable and / or designed for a vehicle door. The device serves, in particular, to steplessly lock and / or lock the vehicle door in each opening angle, so that the vehicle door is held or blocked in the corresponding position. Preferably, the vehicle door is designed as a driver's door and / or a passenger door and / or a rear door and / or a rear door. The device is particularly preferably integrated in the vehicle door.

The device has a door holding unit, wherein the door holding unit is connected to a vehicle body. In particular, the door holding unit is fixedly connected to the vehicle body. The door holding unit thus preferably forms a first fixed seat on the vehicle body, in particular on a vehicle frame. The door holding unit may preferably be formed as a door retaining bar or have this. The door holding unit may be articulated to the vehicle body via a hinge member. For example, the joint member is formed as a hinge or a condyle.

The device has a carrier unit, wherein the carrier unit is connected to the vehicle door. In particular, carrier unit is fixedly connected to the vehicle door. The carrier unit thus preferably forms a second fixed seat in the movable vehicle door. The carrier unit may preferably be formed as a carrier adapter. The carrier unit may be fixedly connected to the vehicle door via at least one fastening means. For example, the fastening means is designed as a screw means or a bolt or a dowel pin, etc. Particularly preferably, the carrier unit via the fastening means fixed to the vehicle door, preferably with a door trim and / or a door inner panel connected.

The device has a locking unit, wherein the locking unit is connected to the carrier unit. In principle, the locking unit may be materially and / or frictionally and / or non-positively and / or positively connected to the carrier unit. Particularly preferably, however, the locking unit is connected via a connecting means with the carrier unit. For example, the connecting means is formed as a screw means or a bolt, etc. The connecting means preferably serves as a connecting member between the carrier unit and the locking unit and / or as a component carrier for individual components of the locking unit.

The door holding unit is movable relative to the locking unit in a direction of movement along a Arretierungsstrecke. In particular, the door holding unit along the Arretierungsstrecke is straight, preferably linearly guided. By opening or closing the vehicle door, the door holding unit is moved relative to the locking unit along the Arretierungsstrecke, at the same time the locking unit remains stationary to the vehicle door. Thus, the door holding unit moves opening or closing the vehicle door translationally along the Arretierungsstrecke.

The locking unit has a first Reibkupplungsabschnitt and the door holding unit to a second Reibkupplungsabschnitt, wherein the first and the second Reibkupplungsabschnitt together form a friction clutch. In particular, by increasing the friction in the friction clutch, the vehicle door can be held at an opening angle and / or blocked. For example, the opening angle is in a range of more than 1 degree and less than 90 degrees.

The locking unit has a Verstellaktuatorik for adjusting the friction force of the friction clutch, so that the door holding unit can be locked in different positions along the Arretierungsstrecke. In particular, the Verstellaktuatorik used to apply the friction clutch with an additional compressive force. Preferably, by the Verstellaktuatorik a base friction between the first and the second Reibkupplungsabschnitt be generated. Particularly preferably, the basic friction is preferably so high that the vehicle door is self-retaining in every opening angle.

In the context of the invention, the Verstellaktuatorik at least two clamping plates. The first clamping mat may have a first receiving opening and / or the second clamping plate may have a second receiving opening. The first and / or the second clamping plate are preferably connected via the receiving opening with the connecting means or suitable for receiving the connecting means. In particular, the connecting means defines a locking axis, wherein in a projection from above, the locking axis intersects the locking path or the direction of movement at right angles.

The first and / or the second clamping plate may be arranged coaxially and / or concentrically with the locking axis. In particular, the first and / or the second clamping plate can be moved in or against the direction of movement. Particularly preferably, at least one of the two receiving openings is designed as a slot, so that the corresponding clamping plate is linearly guided during a displacement. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the other receiving opening has a similar cross-section as the connecting means, so that the corresponding clamping plate is held in a form-fitting manner at least in the direction of movement. Thus, one of the two clamping plates remains stationary in a displacement of the other clamping plate with respect to the direction of movement. Alternatively, however, one of the two clamping plates can also be firmly connected to the connecting means, so that this remains stationary in a displacement of the other clamping plate both in the direction of movement and in the axial direction.

Upon displacement of the first clamping plate relative to the second clamping plate, a linear movement can be generated and transmitted to the friction clutch, so that the friction force of the friction clutch is adjustable. In particular, in the axial direction of the first and the second Reibkupplungsabschnitt and the first and the second clamping plate are successively arranged on the connecting means. Preferably, the connecting means is provided on at least one axial end with a securing means, so that the components arranged on the connecting means are axially secured against slipping. Particularly preferably, the two clamping plates and the two Reibkupplungsabschnitte are arranged in the axial direction positively between the securing means and the carrier unit.

Upon displacement of the first and / or the second clamping plate, an axial distance between the first and the second clamping plate is changed. Thus, at least one of the two clamping plates experiences an axial movement with respect to the locking axis, so that the linear movement is generated. Due to the positive fit of the components in the axial direction can thus be increased or reduced by the linear movement, the pressure force on the friction clutch, so that the frictional force of the multi-plate clutch is set.

The advantage of the invention is that a simple and cost-effective implementation of a continuous locking of vehicle doors can be realized by the inventive embodiment of the invention. Another advantage is in particular that the vehicle door is self-holding at any angle by the inventive design of the device. In particular, a particularly robust and reliable system is formed by the simple design of the system.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first and / or the second clamping plate has a wedge-shaped active contour. In particular, the first clamping plate has a first active contour, as the active contour, on a side facing the second clamping plate. In particular, the second clamping plate has a second active contour, as the active contour, on a side facing the first clamping plate. In particular, the two active contours are formed by at least one, in particular more than three, spaced-apart ramps with the same pitch. Preferably, one of the two contours is formed as a negative contour of the other contour.

At least one of the two clamping plates is displaceable between a first and a second relative position. By formed as a slot receiving opening a first and a second end stop of the clamping plate is formed. In particular, the first active contour in the first relative position is fully engaged with the second active contour. Preferably, in the first relative position, the displaceable clamping plate bears against the connecting means with the first end stop. During a movement of the vehicle door slides the sliding clamping plates with its active contour, in particular due to different friction conditions on the two clamping plate sides, along the active contour of the other clamping plate, which remains stationary until the second relative position is reached. Preferably, the displaceable clamping plate is in the second relative position with the second end stop on the connecting means. By the rising or falling course of the active contours thus the distance between the clamping plates is changed, whereby an axial movement of at least one of the two clamping plates is forced along the locking axis.

In the first relative position, a first friction force of the friction clutch and in the second relative position, a second friction force of the friction clutch is set, wherein the first and the second friction force are of different heights. When opening the vehicle door, the clamping plate is preferably transferred from the first to the second relative position and, when closing, from the second to the first relative position. In particular, the first friction force is smaller than the second friction force. Preferably, the first friction force is so low, so that a movement of the vehicle door is almost friction-free or at least reduced friction. The basic adhesion of the friction clutch is preferably set in the second relative position.

In one embodiment of the invention, the friction clutch is designed as a multi-plate clutch, wherein the first friction clutch portion comprises a plurality of locking lamellae and the second friction clutch portion comprises a plurality of guide plates, wherein the guide plates are arranged in an alternating sequence between the locking lamellae. The guide plates and / or the locking lamellae are preferably designed as friction plates, so that a frictional engagement between the first and the second multi-plate clutch section is formed. Particularly preferably, the guide plates are designed as translationally movable lamellar plates and the locking lamellae as stationary clutch discs. In particular, the guide blades and the locking blades are arranged in alternating order on the connecting means.

The guide lamellae serve in particular for guiding the door holding unit in the direction of movement, the guide lamella for this purpose each having an elongate guide opening extending in the direction of movement for receiving the connecting means. The guide opening limits the Arretierungsstrecke in the direction of movement, so that the door holding unit is limitedly displaced in the direction of movement.

In principle, the guide plates can be connected in a material-locking and / or frictional and / or non-positive and / or positive-locking manner to the door-retaining bar. However, particularly preferably, the guide plates are connected by means of a riveted joint with the door retaining bar. Preferably, the door retaining bar at a free end on a connecting fork, wherein the guide blades are accommodated in the connecting fork. In particular, the rivet connection is formed by at least one, preferably exactly two, rivet, which connects the connecting fork with the guide plates. The at least one rivet prevents the formation of a bending angle between the guide blades and the door retaining bar, so that the two composite partners are held in a load axis.

In a preferred arrangement, one of the clamping plates rests on one of the guide blades. Preferably, the friction between the clamping plate and the guide plate is greater than the friction between the clamping plate and the other clamping plate.

When opening the vehicle door thus the clamping plate is taken by the guide plate in the direction of movement until, in particular, the second relative position is reached. In a further opening of the vehicle door in particular the displaceable clamping plate now remains in the direction of movement due to the second end stop in the second relative position, so that due to the generated second frictional force the vehicle door along the Arretierungsstrecke can be locked. Particularly preferably, upon further opening of the vehicle door, the base friction, preferably by a small force of the vehicle occupant, in a sliding friction, so that the vehicle door can be opened and due to the second friction force in any opening angle is infinitely locked.

When closing the door, the clamping plate is taken by the guide plate in the opposite direction of movement until, in particular, the first relative position is reached. In a further closing of the vehicle door, the displaceable clamping plate now remains in the direction of movement due to the first end stop in the first Relative position, so that due to the generated lower first frictional force the vehicle door is easier zuziehbar.

In a further constructional implementation, the locking unit has a spring device, wherein the spring device acts on the friction clutch with a spring force. The spring device is arranged coaxially and / or concentrically with respect to the locking axis on the connecting means. Preferably, the spring force along the locking axis acts on the friction clutch. Due to the spring force generated, in particular in a balanced state of the system, the first frictional force is generated. Preferably, the spring device is supported on the one hand on the securing means and on the other hand on one of the clamping plates. In particular, the spring force is adjustable via the securing means. For example, the spring device is designed as a helical spring or a leaf spring package or a cup spring package.

The Verstellaktuatorik is designed to adjust the spring force. In particular, due to the linear movement of one of the clamping plates, the spring device is displaced in the axial direction. In this case, the spring device is preferably compressed in the second relative position of the displaceable clamping plate, wherein in particular the spring force or the bias of the spring device is increased and the second friction force is generated.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the Verstellaktuatorik on a third clamping plate. The third clamping plate may have a third receiving opening for receiving the connecting means. Particularly preferably, the third receiving opening is formed as a slot, so that the third clamping plate is linearly guided. Thus, the third clamping plate can be moved in or against the direction of movement.

The third clamping plate is displaceable between a release position and a clamping position relative to the first and / or the second clamping plate. Upon displacement of the third clamping plate, in particular relative to at least one of the other two clamping plates in the direction of movement, an additional linear movement can be generated. The additional linear movement leads to a further axial displacement of the clamping plates along the locking axis, which in turn leads to a change in the spring force. The third clamping plate is preferably controllable separately from the first and the second clamping plate. Preferably, the first and / or the second and / or the third clamping plate with at least one side surface of the carrier unit, so that they are straight in the direction of movement. Optionally complementary to the first and / or the second and / or the third clamping plate for this purpose have a rectangular basic shape, so that a rotation of the clamping plates is prevented.

In the clamping position, a third frictional force is generated, which is greater than the first and the second frictional force, so that the door holding unit is blocked in the direction of movement. Preferably, the third frictional force generates a static friction in the friction clutch, which is higher than the basic friction, so that the door holding unit is blocked or braked in the direction of movement. As a result, a further opening and / or closing the vehicle door can be prevented or made difficult difficult.

Optionally, in addition, the adjusting actuator can be signal-wise connected to a sensor system for detecting collision objects, so that a collision of the vehicle door with objects located in the vicinity is prevented by the blocking of the door holding unit. Preferably, the sensor system comprises at least one ultrasonic sensor and / or a camera and / or a laser scanner. It is particularly preferred to detect a collision object, e.g. Cyclist or parked car, etc., activates the Verstellaktuatorik, in particular the third clamping plate moved, preventing further opening of the vehicle door and / or the opening angle of the vehicle door is limited. Preferably, the third friction force is at least so great that a further opening of the vehicle door is associated with a very high expenditure of force. Thus, the vehicle occupant notices that he is deliberately prevented from opening the vehicle door in order to avoid a possible collision with the collision object.

In a concrete structural implementation, the Verstellaktuatorik at least one rolling element, wherein the rolling elements between the third and one of the other two clamping plates is arranged in a clamping ramp path. For example, the rolling element is designed as a ball or a roller. In particular, the Verstellaktuatorik more than two, in particular more than four rolling elements. In principle, the rolling element can be accommodated on the one hand in a pocket-like recess and on the other hand be received in the clamping ramp track. Preferably, however, the third clamping plate and one of the other two clamping plates each have the clamping ramp track, wherein the rolling elements between the two clamping plates in the clamping ramp track is received and / or guided.

About the rolling elements, a distance between the third clamping plate and one of the other two clamping plates is variable, so that the third friction force of the friction clutch is adjustable. In particular, the clamping ramp track on a contour on which the rolling elements in the displacement of the third clamping plate between the release position and the clamping position rolls. Preferably, the contour is formed rising from the release position to the clamping position, so that an axial distance between the clamping plates is variable by the rolling elements. Thus, preferably at least one of the two clamping plates experiences the further axial movement with respect to the locking axis, so that the additional linear movement is generated.

In a further realization of the invention, the second clamping plate is designed as an intermediate plate. In particular, the second clamping plate is arranged between the first and the third clamping plate. Preferably, the second clamping plate is fixed in the direction of movement and / or in the axial direction with respect to the locking axis on the connecting means. Particularly preferably, the third and / or the first clamping plate are displaceable relative to the second clamping plate in the direction of movement, wherein the second clamping plate remains stationary in the direction of movement. On the one hand, the second clamping plate has the second active contour and interacts with the first active contour. On the other hand, the second clamping plate has the clamping ramp track and cooperates with the third clamping plate, in particular the rolling element.

In a further implementation, the locking unit has an actuating lever for actuating the third clamping plate. Preferably, the actuating lever is designed as an angle lever. Particularly preferably, the actuating lever comprises a short and a long lever arm. The actuating lever may be rotatably mounted on the carrier unit.

The actuating lever is operatively connected on the one hand to the third clamping plate and on the other hand with an adjusting device. In particular, the actuating lever is connected via a transmission means with the actuating device. Preferably, the transmission means serve to transmit a tensile force on the actuating lever. The transmission means may be designed as a cable, e.g. Bowden cable or wire, and / or be designed as a rigid rod. In particular, the short lever arm may rest against the third clamping plate and / or the long lever arm may be connected to the setting device via the transmission means. Preferably, the adjusting device is designed as an electric motor. The adjusting device is preferably a component of the device.

Upon activation of the actuator, the third clamping plate is moved to the clamping position. The setting device is preferably always activated when a collision object is detected and / or the vehicle door is locked. The actuating lever is actuated in particular via the transmission means, wherein pressed by the lever force amplification of the actuating lever, preferably the short lever arm on the third clamping plate and moves it along its receiving opening. The rolling elements are forced to follow the slope of the clamping ramp paths, so that the axial distance between the clamping plates, preferably between the third and the second clamping plate is increased. Due to the additional linear movement, the spring device is further compressed and the spring force is additionally increased, so that the third friction force is set.

In a further concretization, the locking unit has a restoring device, wherein the restoring device resets the third clamping plate when the adjusting device is deactivated in the release position. In particular, as soon as the danger situation no longer exists, the actuating lever is relieved and the third clamping plate is transferred to the release position via the restoring device. The restoring device is preferably arranged in the direction of movement between the third clamping plate and the carrier unit. The restoring device preferably has a compression spring, as a further spring member on. In particular, the pressure spring is supported on the one hand on the carrier unit and on the other hand on the third clamping plate, wherein a restoring force counteracts the actuating lever. Particularly preferably, the restoring force acts in the direction of the release position of the third clamping plate. By means of the restoring device, a system is thus proposed which can be unlocked without additional expenditure of energy.

In one possible implementation, the adjusting device is designed as a central locking plate. By means of the force multiplication by the operating lever and the described wedge mechanism, it is possible to operate the Verstellaktuatorik with a smaller force, whereby the formation of the adjusting device is made possible as a central locking plate. In particular, the central locking plate is designed as a linear actuator. Preferably, the adjusting device is a component of a central locking, wherein the adjusting device serves for locking or unlocking the vehicle door.

• 1 eine Schnittdarstellung einer Fahrzeugtür mit einer Vorrichtung zur stufenlosen Arretierung der Fahrzeugtür als ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;
• 2 einen Teilausschnitt eines Fahrzeugs mit der Fahrzeugtür in einer dreidimensionalen Darstellung;
• 3 eine Explosionsdarstellung der Vorrichtung aus 1 ;
• 4a, b in einer dreidimensionalen Darstellung die Vorrichtung in einer ersten und einer zweiten Endposition;
• 5 eine Schnittdarstellung der Vorrichtung in einem ersten Betriebszustand;
• 6 die Vorrichtung in gleicher Darstellung wie 5 in einem zweiten Betriebszustand;
• 7 die Vorrichtung in gleicher Darstellung wie 5 in einem dritten Betriebszustand.

Further features, advantages and effects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention and the accompanying figures. Showing:

• 1 a sectional view of a vehicle door with a device for continuously locking the vehicle door as an embodiment of the invention;
• 2 a partial section of a vehicle with the vehicle door in a three-dimensional representation;
• 3 an exploded view of the device 1 ;
• 4a, b in a three-dimensional representation, the device in a first and a second end position;
• 5 a sectional view of the device in a first operating state;
• 6 the device in the same representation as 5 in a second operating state;
• 7 the device in the same representation as 5 in a third operating state.

1 shows a partial view of a vehicle in a plan view 1 in a sectional view. In the illustration shown is the vehicle 1 shown from the passenger side. The vehicle 1 has a vehicle door 2 , in particular a passenger door, on, wherein the vehicle door 2 is shown in an open state. In the open state defines the vehicle door 2 an opening angle alpha.

The vehicle door 2 is pivotable on a vehicle body 3 arranged and has a device 4 for stepless locking of the vehicle door 2 on. The device 4 has a door holding unit 5 , a carrier unit 6 and a locking unit 7 on. The door holding unit 5 is articulated to the vehicle body 3 and the carrier unit 6 fixed to the vehicle door 2 attached. Thus, the device has 4 a first tight fit on the vehicle body 3 and a second fixed seat on the vehicle door 2 , For example, the device 4 in the vehicle door 2 integrated, the device 4 with the carrier unit 6 for example, on an assembly carrier of the vehicle door 2 is arranged.

During an opening or closing operation of the vehicle door 2 is the door holding unit 5 at least in sections in the carrier unit 6 guided. The locking unit 7 is with the carrier unit 6 firmly connected, wherein the door holding unit 5 relative to the locking unit 8th is displaceable. The locking unit 8th serves for locking and / or blocking the door holding unit 7 so the vehicle door 2 is held in the opening angle alpha and / or blocked. The locking unit locks 8th the door holding unit 7 stepless so that the vehicle door 2 within the opening angle alpha is infinitely lockable at any angle. For example, the opening angle alpha is in a range of more than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

2 shows in a three-dimensional view of the vehicle 1 from the passenger side, with the vehicle door 2 is shown in the open state. The device 1 has an adjusting device 8th on. The adjusting device 8th For example, it can be designed as an electrical or electromechanical central locking plate. The locking unit 7 is via a means of transmission 9 with the adjusting device 8th operatively connected, wherein at an actuating movement of the adjusting device 8th the locking unit 7 is operable. For example, the transmission means 9 formed as a pull wire or rope, so by the transmission means 9 a tensile force on the locking unit 7 is transferable.

The adjusting device 8th can, for example, signaling with an existing sensor system of the vehicle 1 , For example, laser scanner, top-view camera, etc., be connected, wherein in a detection of possible collision objects, the sensor system is a control signal to the adjusting device 8th transmitted. Based on the control signal leads the actuator 8th the adjusting movement, whereby the Arrtierungseinheit 8th is pressed and the vehicle door 2 is blocked or braked in an opening direction and thus a collision is prevented.

3 shows the device 4 in an exploded view. The carrier unit 6 is designed as a carrier adapter and two fastening means 10 with the vehicle door 2 connectable. For example, the two fasteners 10 designed as welding screws.

The device 4 has a connecting means 11 on, wherein the connecting means 11 the locking unit 7 with the carrier unit 6 combines. For example, the connecting means 11 designed as a dowel screw. The connecting means 11 serves as a link between the locking unit 7 and the carrier unit 6 and on the other hand as a component carrier for the components of the locking unit 7 and / or the door holding unit 5 , The connecting means 11 defines with its longitudinal axis a locking axis A ,

The locking unit 7 has a Verstellaktuatorik 12 , a first friction coupling portion 13a , an operating lever 14 and a reset device 15 on. The door holding unit 5 has a joint organ 16 , a door retaining bar 17 and a second friction coupling portion 13b on.

The first and second friction clutch sections 13a , b together form a friction clutch 13 , The friction clutch 13 is designed as a multi-plate clutch. For this purpose, the first friction coupling section 13a a plurality of locking lamellae 18 and the second friction coupling portion 13b a plurality of guide blades 19 on. About the connecting means 11 are the guide blades in alternating order 19 and the locking lamellae 18 arranged. Through the friction clutch 13 is thus a frictional connection of the locking unit 7 with the door holding unit 5 implemented.

The guide blades 19 are designed as translationally movable lamella plates and each have an elongated guide opening for this purpose 20 on, wherein the connecting means 11 in the guide hole 20 is included. The guide opening 20 is formed as a slot, the guide opening 20 a Arretierungsstrecke AS defined, along which the door holding unit 5 displaceable and by the locking unit 7 can be locked in different positions.

Over two rivets 21 are the guide blades 19 with the door retaining bar 17 connected, with the door retaining bar 17 this end has a connecting fork. For example, the rivets 21 designed as a tubular rivet. The two rivets 21 prevent the emergence of a bending angle between the guide plates 19 and the door retaining bar 17 , and keep them in a load axis.

On the opposite side of the connecting fork is the joint organ 16 on the door retaining bar 17 attached. The door holding unit 5 is about the joint organ 16 swiveling on the vehicle body 3 , eg attached to the A-pillar. Thus, the door retaining bar moves 17 with the guide blades 19 when opening or closing the vehicle door 2 translational, as the device 4 as previously described, via the first and second fixed seats to the body 3 or the vehicle door 2 is attached.

The adjustment actuator 12 includes a spring device 22 , a first, second and third clamping plate 23a . b . c as well as two rolling elements 24 , The two rolling elements 24 are axial with respect to the locking axis A between the second and the third clamping plate 23b , C arranged and formed in the embodiment shown as cylindrical rollers.

The spring device 22 includes a first and a second washer 25a . b , For example, the first and / or the second intermediate disc 25a . b designed as a washer or a spring washer. Between the first and the second washer 25a . b is a spring organ 26 and a cup-shaped spring sleeve 27 arranged. The spring organ 26 is designed as a plate spring package and in the spring sleeve 27 added. The locking lamellae 18 are formed as annular clutch plates and coaxial and / or concentric with respect to the locking axis on the connecting means 11 arranged.

The adjustment actuator 12 is seen in the axial direction after the friction clutch 13 arranged, wherein in the following order the first clamping plate 23a , the second clamp 23b , the two rolling elements 24 , the third clamping plate, the first washer 25a , the spring sleeve 27 , the spring organ 26 , the second washer 25b on the lanyard 11 are arranged. The connecting means 11 is at its axial end with a securing means 28 provided, the securing means 28 for example, is designed as a self-locking nut. The securing means 28 lies in the axial direction of the second washer 25b with, over the securing means 28 for example, the bias of the spring member 26 is adjustable.

The reset device 15 has a cylindrical further spring sleeve 29 and another spring organ 30 on, wherein the restoring device 15 with the third clamping plate 23c connected is. The further spring element 30 is designed as a compression spring and is on the other cylinder sleeve 29 added.

The operating lever 14 is pivotable on the carrier unit 6 attached. The operating lever 14 is designed as an angle lever and has a short lever arm 14a and a long lever arm 14b on. The operating lever 14 is about the transmission medium 9 with the adjusting device 8th , from the 2 , connected. In this case, the transfer agent attacks 9 at the outer end of the long lever arm 14b at.

The 4a and 4b show in a three-dimensional representation of the device 4 in two different end positions. The door holding unit 5 is in the carrier unit 6 in a direction of movement B along the Arretierungsstrecke AS guided displaceable, wherein the locking device 7 remains stationary. The Arretierungsstrecke AS is in the direction of movement B through the guide opening 26 limited, so that the first and the second end position is formed.

In the 4a is the door holding unit 5 in the first end position and in the 4b shown in the second end position. For example, the difference between the first and second end positions is about 110 millimeters. In the first end position is the vehicle door 2 in the closed state. In the second end position is the vehicle door 2 in an open state, wherein the opening angle alpha occupies a maximum angle, so that the vehicle door 2 is open at most. For example, the opening angle in a range of 1 °> = alpha <= 90 °.

The 5 shows the device 4 in a sectional view along the locking axis A in a first operating state, as the stepless locking of the vehicle door 2 , In particular, the describes 5 an opening of the vehicle door 2 being the vehicle door 2 can be locked in any position. The first clamping plate 23a has a first receiving opening 31a and a first active contour 32a on. The second clamping plate 23b has a second receiving opening 31b and a second active contour 32b on.

The first receiving opening 31a is formed as a slot, which is in the direction of movement B extends so that the first clamping plate 23a in the direction of movement B is displaceable. The second receiving opening 31b is formed as a through-hole, wherein the second clamping plate 23b in the direction of movement B positive fit on the connecting means 11 is arranged.

When opening the vehicle door 2 the door holding unit moves 5 in a first direction of movement B1 relative to the locking unit 7 , By trained as a slot first receiving opening 31a a first and a second end stop is formed, so that the first clamping plate is displaceable between a first and a second relative position. In the illustration shown, the first clamping plate 23a shown in the second relative position, wherein the first clamping plate 23a with the second end stop in the first direction of movement B1 on the connecting means 11 is applied. For this purpose, the first clamping plate 23a in the first direction of movement B1 through one of the guide blades 19 taken. This is made possible by the friction between the first clamping plate 23a and the guide blade 19 is greater than the friction between the first and the second clamping plate 23a , b. Thus, the frictional contact between the first clamping plate 23a and the guide blade 19 along the first direction of movement B1 initially a static friction and can thus the translational displacement of the guide plate 19 consequences. The frictional contact between the first clamping plate 23a and the second clamping plate 23b points first along the first direction of movement B1 a sliding friction, so that the first and the second clamping plate 23a . b slide against each other, the second clamping plate 23a , b remains stationary.

The first and the second active contour 32a . b are formed as wedge-shaped ramps, wherein the first and the second active contour 32a . b in the first direction of movement B1 sloping. Due to the wedge-shaped course of the two active contours 32a , b is thus at a displacement of the first clamping plate 23a in the first direction of movement B1 a linear movement of the second clamping plate 23b axially in the direction of the spring device 22 generated or enforced. By the axial movement of the second clamping plate 23b and all adjacent overlying components, causes the spring sleeve 27 opposite the stationary second washer 25b axially in the direction of the securing means 28 shifts, so that the spring force of the spring element 26 is increased

The spring force acts axially in relation to the locking axis A in the direction of the friction clutch 13 , By increasing the spring force, the friction clutch 13 thus in the first relative position of the first clamping plate 23a a first frictional force and the second relative position of the first clamping plate 23a a second frictional force, wherein the first frictional force is less than the second frictional force.

The second friction force is increased to the extent that a stepless locking the vehicle door 2 is possible. It is in the friction clutch 13 creates a base friction. Upon further opening of the vehicle door 2 go, for example, by a small amount of force of the vehicle occupant, the static friction between the guide plate 19 and the first clamping plate 23a as well as the basic friction in a sliding friction, so that the vehicle door 3 can be opened and is self-holding in any opening angle.

The 6 shows the device 4 , in the same representation as 5 , in a second operating state, as the facilitated closing the vehicle door 2 , When closing the vehicle door 2 the door holding unit moves 5 in an opposite to the first direction of movement B1 directed second direction of movement B2 relative to the locking unit 7 , This is the first clamping plate 23a in the second direction of movement B2 through the guide plate 19 taken along and transferred back to the first relative position.

In the illustration shown, there is the first clamping plate 23a in the first relative position, wherein the first clamping plate 23a with the first end stop in the second direction of movement B2 on the connecting means 11 is applied. The second active contour 32b forms a negative contour to the first active contour 32a , wherein in the first relative position, the first and the second active contour 32a . b completely mesh and the first frictional force is generated. Since the first friction force is less than the second friction force, the door holding unit 5 or the vehicle door 2 with a reduced friction in the second direction of movement B2 be moved, thereby facilitating the closing of the vehicle door 2 is possible. This case always occurs when the vehicle door 2 is closed, even if the emergency stop function, as described in 7 described, is active.

The 7 shows the device 4 , in the same representation as 5 , in a third operating state, as the emergency stop the vehicle door 2 , The emergency stop function serves as a collision prevention measure with eg other road users and / or as a limitation of the opening angle alpha. This is the vehicle door 2 in an opening movement, causing the first clamping plate 23a as already in 5 described, is arranged in the second relative position. Upon detection of a collision object by the sensor system performs the actuator 8th the adjusting movement, for example, a pulling movement, from, wherein the actuating lever 14 is pressed and the third clamping plate 23c is moved.

The third clamping plate 23c has a third receiving opening 31c on. The third receiving opening 31c is formed as a slot, so that the third clamping plate 23c in the direction of movement B is displaceable between a release and a clamping position. The second clamping plate 23b is formed as an intermediate plate and points to one of the third clamping plate 23c facing side per rolling element 24 one clamping ramp track each 33 on, in which the rolling elements 24 are arranged. Furthermore, the third clamping plate 23c also, on one of the second clamping plate 23b facing side, the Klemmrampenbahnen 33 on. The clamping ramp tracks 33 have one in the second direction of movement B2 rising ramp up.

The operating lever 14 lies with the short lever arm 14a on the third clamping plate 23c at. By the leverage of the operating lever 14 pushes the short lever arm 14a on the third clamp 23c and shifts them in the second direction of movement B2 from the release position to the clamping position. As a result, the rolling elements 24 forced the slope of the clamping ramp tracks 33 to follow, resulting in an axial distance between the second and the third clamping plate 23b . c increased. By increasing the distance between the two clamping plates 23b . c leads the third clamp 23c an additional linear movement in the axial direction with respect to the locking axis A out. Due to the additional linear movement, the spring sleeve 28 continue in the direction of the securing device 28 moved and the spring organ 28 further compressed, so that the spring force is further increased. Thus, in the clamping position of the third clamping plate 23c a third friction force of the friction clutch 13 generated, which is greater than the first and the second friction force. In this case, the third friction force is dimensioned such that a further movement of the door holding unit 13 and thus the vehicle door 2 blocked or only with an additional increased effort of the vehicle occupant is possible.

Once the dangerous situation is over and the vehicle door 2 is to be closed again, there is no further pulling movement of the adjusting device 8th or becomes the transmission means 9 relaxed. The further spring element 30 , which on the one hand on the third clamping plate 23c and on the other hand on the carrier unit 6 supports, pushes the third clamp 23c in the first direction of movement B1 back to the release position. What the operating lever 14 is also pushed back to its original position.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

vehicle

2

vehicle door

3

vehicle body

4

contraption

5

Door holding unit

6

support unit

7

arresting

8th

setting device

9

transmission means

10

fastener

11

connecting means

12

Verstellaktuatorik

13

friction clutch

13a

first friction coupling section

13b

second friction coupling section

14

actuating lever

14a

short lever arm

14b

long lever arm

15

Reset device

16

hinged device

17

Door retaining bar

18

lock-

19

Arrangers

20

guide opening

21

rivet

22

spring means

23a

first clamping plate

23b

second clamping plate

23c

third clamping plate

24

rolling elements

25a

first intermediate disc

25b

second washer

26

spring member

27

spring sleeve

28

securing means

29

further spring sleeve

30

another spring element

31a

first receiving opening

31b

second receiving opening

31c

third receiving opening

32a

first active contour

32b

third active contour

33

Clamping ramp lanes

A

Arretierungsachse

AS

Arretierungsstrecke

B

movement direction

B1

first direction of movement

B2

second direction of movement

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 19906708 A1 [0003]

Claims (10)

Device (4) for steplessly locking a vehicle door (2), comprising a door holding unit (5) for attachment to a vehicle body (3), with a carrier unit (6) for attachment to the vehicle door (2), with a locking unit (7), wherein the locking unit (7) is connected to the carrier unit (6), wherein the door holding unit (5) relative to the locking unit (7) in a direction of movement (B) along a locking path (AS) is movable, wherein the locking unit (7) first friction coupling portion (13a) and the door holding unit (5) having a second friction coupling portion (13b), wherein the first and second friction coupling portions (13a, b) together form a friction clutch (13), and wherein the locking unit (7) comprises a Verstellaktuatorik (12 ) for adjusting the friction force of the friction clutch (13), so that the door holding unit (5) relative to the locking unit (7) in different positions along the locking track (AS) can be locked, characterized in that the Verstellaktuatorik (12) at least two clamping plates (23 a, b), wherein upon displacement of the first clamping plate (23 a) relative to the second clamping plate (23 b) a linear movement generated and on the Friction clutch (13) is transferable, so that the friction force of the friction clutch (13) is adjustable. Device (4) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that the first and / or the second clamping plate (23a, b) have a wedge-shaped active contour (32a, b), wherein at least one of the two clamping plates (23a, b) is displaceable between a first and a second relative position, wherein in the first relative position, a first friction force and in the second relative position, a second friction force is set, wherein the first and the second friction force are different. Device (4) according to Claim 1 or 2 characterized in that the friction clutch (13) is formed as a multi-plate clutch, wherein the first friction clutch section (13a) has a plurality of locking blades (18) and the second friction clutch section (13b) comprises a plurality of guide blades (19), wherein the guide blades ( 19) are arranged in alternating sequence between the locking lamellae (18). Device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking unit (7) has a spring device (22), wherein the spring device (22) acts on the friction clutch (13) with a spring force, wherein the Verstellaktuatorik (12) for adjustment the spring force is formed. Device (4) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the Verstellaktuatorik (12) has a third clamping plate (23c), wherein the third clamping plate (23c) between a release position and a clamping position relative to the first and / or the second clamping plate (23a, b) is displaceable, wherein in the clamping position, a third frictional force is generated, which is greater than the first and the second frictional force, so that the door holding unit (5) in the direction of movement (B) is blocked. Device (4) according to Claim 5 , characterized in that the Verstellaktuatorik (12) has at least one rolling body (24), wherein the rolling body (24) between the third and one of the other two clamping plates (23a, b, c) in a clamping ramp track (33) is arranged, a distance between the third clamping plate (23c) and one of the two other clamping plates (23a, b) is variable via the roller body (24), so that the third friction force of the friction clutch (13) is adjustable. Device (4) according to Claim 5 or 6 , characterized in that the second clamping plate (23b) is formed as an intermediate plate, wherein the second clamping plate (23b) on the one hand the operative contour (32b) and with the first clamping plate (23a) cooperates, and wherein the second clamping plate (23b) on the other the clamping ramp track (33) and with the third clamping plate (23c) cooperates. Device (4) according to one of Claims 5 to 7 , characterized in that the locking unit (7) comprises an actuating lever (14) for actuating the third clamping plate (23c), wherein the actuating lever (14) on the one hand with the third clamping plate (23c) and on the other hand with an actuating device (8) for activating the Actuating lever (14) is operatively connected, wherein upon activation of the adjusting device (8), the third clamping plate (23c) is moved. Device (4) according to Claim 8 , characterized in that the locking device (7) has a restoring device (15), wherein the restoring device (15) resets the third clamping plate (23c) upon deactivation of the adjusting device (8) in the release position. Device (4) according to Claim 8 or 9 , characterized in that the adjusting device (8) is designed as a central locking plate.

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