DE102017219147A1 - Multimodal vehicle access - Google Patents

Abstract

A vehicle closure member for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle includes at least two closure segments, each of which is configured to reversibly close a portion of the body opening. The vehicle closure member is at least partially formed for closing the body opening by rotating the vehicle closure member about an axis of rotation of the vehicle closure member, and the closure segments are pivotally movably connected to each other about at least one pivot axis. The pivot axis extends at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the vehicle closure element. Also described are a vehicle locking system, a vehicle and a method.

Description

The present invention relates generally to the field of vehicle access. It relates in particular to a vehicle closure element having at least two closing segments and a vehicle locking system. It further relates to a vehicle and a method for controlling an adjustment device for a vehicle closure element.

Various techniques for providing vehicle access are known. In particular, various types of vehicle closure elements for reversibly closing body openings, such as vehicle doors, hoods or hatches, are in use. In most cases, the vehicle is opened or closed by moving the vehicle closure element about a pivot axis, wherein the vehicle closure element is guided along a predetermined path.

Difficulties often arise in the known techniques for providing vehicle access, for example when other objects are located in a dense environment of the vehicle. Thus, in conventional vehicle doors, which are laterally moved about a pivot axis, access to the vehicle is often impaired, such as in tight parking spaces or between the pillars of a parking garage. In addition to the difficult access to the vehicle, there is also the risk of damage due to collisions with objects in the vehicle environment.

It is therefore desirable to have a technique that mitigates or avoids the aforementioned disadvantages.

According to a first aspect, a vehicle closure element for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle is described. The vehicle closure member includes at least two closure segments, each of which is configured to reversibly close a portion of the body opening. The vehicle closing element is designed to close the body opening at least partially by rotating the vehicle closure element about an axis of rotation of the vehicle closure element. The locking segments are pivotally connected to one another about at least one pivot axis. The pivot axis extends at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the vehicle closure element.

The vehicle closure member may include at least three closure segments. The locking segments can be connected in pairs pivotally movable together. At least three of the locking segments may be pivotally movably coupled in pairs about non-parallel axes. At least two of the locking segments may be separably connected together.

The vehicle closure member may also be adjustable in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation. In particular, the vehicle closure element may be automatically adjustable in the direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

The pivot axis and the rotation axis can each extend in a front region or in the region of an upper edge of the vehicle closure element. In particular, both the pivot axis and the axis of rotation can run in a front region of the vehicle closure element. Alternatively, both the pivot axis and the axis of rotation may extend in the region of an upper edge of the vehicle closure element. Alternatively, the pivot axis and the rotation axis can each extend in a rear region of the vehicle closure element. The vehicle closure member may include a vehicle tailgate. In this case, the pivot axis and the axis of rotation can each extend in a side region of the vehicle closure element.

In a second aspect, a vehicle locking system is described. The vehicle closure system includes a vehicle closure member for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle, and an adjustment device configured to selectively adjust an orientation of the vehicle closure member with respect to the body opening according to one of at least two different access modes of the vehicle closure system. At least two of the access modes are different from each other in terms of adjusting the orientation according to various degrees of freedom of the vehicle locking system.

The adjusting device may comprise at least one motor.

A first access mode may include an adjustment according to only a first degree of freedom, and a second access mode may include an adjustment according to at least one other than the first degree of freedom.

In addition, at least two of the access modes may be different with respect to one direction and / or or an amount of adjustment of the orientation of the vehicle closure member according to at least one of the various degrees of freedom of the vehicle closure system. For example, at least two of the access modes may be different from each other both in terms of adjusting the orientation according to different degrees of freedom of the vehicle closure system and with respect to a direction and / or extent of adjusting the orientation of the vehicle closure element according to at least one of various degrees of freedom of the vehicle closure system.

At least one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to pivoting at least a portion of the vehicle closure member about a pivot axis of the vehicle closure member. For example, one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to a pivoting of at least substantially the entire vehicle closure element about a pivot axis of the vehicle closure element. Alternatively, one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to a pivoting of a closing segment of the vehicle closing element with respect to a further closing segment about a pivot axis of the vehicle closing element.

Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to a rotation of at least a part of the vehicle closure element about an axis of rotation of the vehicle closure element. For example, at least one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to a rotation of at least substantially the entire vehicle closure element about an axis of rotation of the vehicle closure element.

The axis of rotation and the pivot axis of the vehicle closure element may be arranged at least substantially perpendicular to each other. The pivot axis and the rotation axis may each extend in a front region of the vehicle closure element. In addition, the pivot axis and the axis of rotation can each extend in the region of an upper edge of the vehicle closure element. In addition, the pivot axis and the rotation axis may each extend in a rear area of the vehicle closure member.

The vehicle locking system may include a sensor device configured to detect at least one detection amount in an environment of the vehicle and to output a sensor signal indicative of the detection amount. In this case, the vehicle locking system can be designed to select the access mode at least partially as a function of the sensor signal. The detection amount may include presence of an object in or near a movement range of the vehicle closure member. The detection amount may further include at least one of a seat occupancy in the vehicle by one or more passengers, a geographical location of the vehicle, a climatic condition, and a time of day.

Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle locking system may include an operating element configured to detect a user input and output an input signal indicative of the user input. In this case, the vehicle locking system may be configured to select the access mode at least partially in response to the input signal. The control may allow a user to select an access mode among the various access modes. The operating element may be part of an on-board system and / or a remote control of the vehicle.

The vehicle closure member may include at least three closure segments, each of which is configured to reversibly close a portion of the body opening, and which are pivotally movably coupled in pairs about non-parallel axes. The vehicle closure system may include a vehicle closure member of the type presented herein.

In this case, at least one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to a pivoting of at least one of the closing segments with respect to at least one further closing segment.

At least one of the degrees of freedom may correspond to adjusting the orientation of at least a portion of the vehicle closure member in either connected or disconnected condition of the closure segments. The locking segments can be automatically detachably connected to each other.

According to a third aspect, a vehicle is described. The vehicle comprises a vehicle closure element of the type presented here and / or a vehicle locking system of the type presented here. The vehicle may be a passenger car.

According to a fourth aspect, a method for controlling an adjustment device for a vehicle closure element of a vehicle locking system is described. The vehicle closure member is provided for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle, and the adjustment device is configured to selectively adjust an orientation of the vehicle closure member with respect to the body opening according to one of at least two different access modes of the vehicle closure system. The method includes receiving, by a control unit of the vehicle locking system, a sensor signal indicative of a detection amount in an environment of the vehicle, and / or an input signal indicative of a user input to an operating element of the vehicle locking system. Furthermore, the method comprises selecting, by means of the control unit, one of the Access modes of the vehicle locking system at least partially in response to the received sensor signal and / or the received input signal. Furthermore, the method comprises generating, by means of the control unit, a control signal for adjusting the orientation of the vehicle closure element according to the selected access mode, and outputting the control signal to the adjustment device. At least two of the access modes are different from each other in terms of adjusting the orientation according to various degrees of freedom of the vehicle locking system.

In the method, the vehicle closure member may include at least two closure segments, each of which is configured to reversibly close a portion of the body opening. In this case, the vehicle closing element for closing the body opening may be at least partially formed by rotating the vehicle closure member about an axis of rotation of the vehicle closure member, and the closure segments may be pivotally connected to each other about at least one pivot axis. The pivot axis may extend at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the vehicle closure element.

In the method, at least two of the access modes may be further different from each other with respect to a direction and / or degree of adjustment of the orientation of the vehicle closure member according to at least one of the various degrees of freedom of the vehicle closure system.

Further details, objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the drawings and the detailed description.

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugschließelements gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 2a-2d schematische Darstellungen eines Fahrzeugs mit einem Fahrzeugschließelement in unterschiedlichen Positionen gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 3 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugschließelements gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 4a-4e schematische Darstellungen eines Fahrzeugs mit einem Fahrzeugschließelement in unterschiedlichen Positionen gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 5 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugschließsystems gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 6 eine schematische Darstellung eines Fahrzeugschließsystems gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 7 eine schematische Darstellung zweier Fahrzeuge mit jeweils einem Fahrzeugschließelement in unterschiedlichen Positionen gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel;
• 8 ein Flussdiagramm eines Verfahrens zum Steuern einer Verstellvorrichtung für ein Fahrzeugschließelement eines Fahrzeugschließsystems gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel.

Show it:

• 1 a schematic representation of a vehicle closure member according to an embodiment;
• 2a-2d schematic representations of a vehicle with a vehicle closure element in different positions according to another embodiment;
• 3 a schematic representation of a vehicle closure member according to another embodiment;
• 4a-4e schematic representations of a vehicle with a vehicle closure element in different positions according to another embodiment;
• 5 a schematic representation of a vehicle locking system according to an embodiment;
• 6 a schematic representation of a vehicle locking system according to another embodiment;
• 7 a schematic representation of two vehicles, each with a vehicle closure element in different positions according to another embodiment;
• 8th a flowchart of a method for controlling an adjusting device for a vehicle closing element of a vehicle locking system according to an embodiment.

1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle closure element 100 for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle. The vehicle closing element 100 includes two closing segments 101 . 102 that go along a pivot axis S101 pivotally movably connected to each other. The vehicle closing element 100 further comprises a rotation axis D1 , The rotation axis D1 extends in a mounting region of the vehicle closure element 100 for attaching the vehicle closure element 100 is provided on a vehicle body. In the example shown, the axis of rotation runs D1 also in the region of an upper edge of the vehicle closure element 100 ,

The vehicle closing element 100 is designed to open or close the body opening by means of the vehicle closure element 100 both a rotational movement about the axis of rotation D1 as well as a pivoting of the closing segments 101 . 102 with respect to each other about the pivot axis S101 to accomplish.

The rotation axis D1 and the pivot axis S101 extend in the example shown substantially perpendicular to each other. In other examples, at least some of the advantages described below can also be achieved with other orientations of rotary and pivot axes of the respective vehicle closure element.

As explained in more detail below, allows the vehicle closure element 100 to reduce a swivel range of the vehicle closure member in an environment of a vehicle. At the same time allows the vehicle closure element 100 other benefits to a user, as described below.

2A to 2D show different views of a vehicle 200 with a vehicle closure member, wherein the vehicle closure member is shown in various positions. The vehicle closing element is, for example, that associated with 1 described vehicle closure element 100 ,

2A shows a schematic view of the vehicle 200 with a body 210 , a body opening 220 and a vehicle closure member 100 , The vehicle closing element 100 is about the axis of rotation D1 rotatable on a fuselage of the vehicle 200 appropriate. The vehicle closing element 100 is aligned in the example shown, that it is the body opening 220 closes reversibly.

2 B shows a further illustration of the vehicle 200 , Unlike the closed position of the vehicle closure element 100 in 2A has the vehicle closure element 100 in 2 B an orientation corresponding to a partially open position. In this case, the vehicle closing element 100 in 2 B opposite to the 2A shown alignment about the axis of rotation D1 turned.

2C shows a further illustration of the vehicle 200 , 2C shows the vehicle closure element 100 in a fully open position. In particular, the body opening 220 at the in 2C shown position of the vehicle closure element 100 opened as far as possible, the vehicle closing element 100 opposite to the 2 B shown position further about the axis of rotation D1 is turned. In addition, the closing segments 101 . 102 of the vehicle closure element 100 with respect to each other about the pivot axis S101 towards a median plane of the vehicle 200 pivoted.

In the example shown, the vehicle closure member 100 another pivot axis S1 in the mounting area of the vehicle closure element 100 runs. Opposite the in 2A and 2 B shown positions is the vehicle closure element 100 at the in 2C shown position about the pivot axis S1 from the median plane of the vehicle 200 swung outward.

2D shows a perspective view of the vehicle 200 , The position of the vehicle closure element 100 corresponds to the position off 2C , From the view in 2D In particular, the pivoted position of the closing segment 102 around the pivot axis S101 to the median plane of the vehicle 200 towards and around the pivot axis S1 pivoted outward position of the vehicle closure element 100 clear.

The vehicle closing element 100 as described herein has several advantages over conventional vehicle closure elements, especially with respect to laterally swinging vehicle doors. So allows the vehicle closure element 100 to minimize a lateral swivel range. This is essentially by turning the vehicle closure member 100 around the axis of rotation D1 allows. At the same time is a rotation or pivoting range in the vertical direction by the pivotal connection of the locking segments 101 . 102 , and in some examples by providing additional pivot axes achieved. The pivoting of the locking segments 101 . 102 In addition, in the manner described protects a possibly sensitive inside or interior of the vehicle closure element 100 , for example, from adverse weather conditions such as precipitation or solar radiation. An additional pivoting of the entire vehicle closure element 100 in the open position from the vehicle center plane to the outside reduces the vertical swing range on. At the same time offers the vehicle closing element 100 in this way additional protection for a user and the vehicle interior, for example, from adverse weather conditions such as precipitation or solar radiation.

In some examples, the vehicle closure member is 100 for manual opening and closing of the body opening 220 intended. In other examples, the vehicle includes 200 an adjusting device for automatically adjusting the vehicle closure element 100 , The adjusting device is, for example, an adjusting device of the type described in more detail below.

3 shows a schematic representation of another example of a vehicle closure member 300 for the reversible closing of a body opening. Unless otherwise stated below, the following applies to the vehicle closure element 300 with respect to the vehicle closure member 100 out 1 Said accordingly.

In contrast to the vehicle closure element 100 includes the vehicle closure element 300 more than two closing segments 301 - 304 , The closing segments 301 - 304 are in pairs around the swivel axes S301 . S302 . S303 pivotally connected to each other. Here are some of the pivot axes S302 . S303 not parallel to each other.

The rotation axis D1 runs at the vehicle closing element 300 in the example shown by one of the closing segments 301 in a front region of the vehicle closure element 300 , In addition, also runs a pivot axis S301 near the front of the vehicle closure element 300 , In other examples, the axis of rotation runs D1 in contrast, by one of the closing segments in a rear region of the vehicle closure element 300 , In addition, in further examples, a pivot axis extends near the rear region of the vehicle closure element 300 ,

4A to 4E show different views of another vehicle 400 with a vehicle closure member, wherein the vehicle closure member is shown in various positions. The vehicle closing element is, for example, that associated with 3 described vehicle closure element 300 , 4A to 4E show different positions the vehicle closure element 300 according to different access modes.

4A shows the motor vehicle 400 with a body 410 , a body opening 420 and a vehicle closure member 300 , In the in 4A shown position of the vehicle closure element 300 this is aligned so that it is the body opening 420 closes reversibly. In the example shown, the vehicle closure element 300 in the area of the axis of rotation D1 on the fuselage of the vehicle 400 attached and opposite the fuselage of the vehicle 400 around the axis of rotation D1 rotatable.

As described in more detail below, the vehicle closure member allows 300 an access to the vehicle 400 optionally according to different access modes. In this case, for example, some of the access modes differ with respect to at least one degree of freedom, according to which the orientation of the vehicle closure element 300 is adjusted in the respective access mode. Other modes, for example, differ with respect to direction and / or extent to the orientation of the vehicle closure member 300 is adjusted by at least one of the degrees of freedom in the respective access mode.

4B shows a further illustration of the vehicle 400 , In this case, there is the vehicle closure element 300 in the open position according to a first access mode. In the example shown, an adjustment of the orientation of the vehicle closure element takes place 300 at least substantially by pivoting the vehicle closure element 300 around the S301 of the vehicle closure element 300 , The other locking segments, however, are not or only slightly pivoted in relation to each other in the present access mode. In addition, no or only a slight rotation of the vehicle closure element takes place 300 around the axis of rotation D1 ,

4C shows a further illustration of the vehicle 400 , In this case, there is the vehicle closure element 300 in the open position according to another access mode. The in 4C illustrated access mode includes turning the vehicle closure member 300 around the axis of rotation D1 , At the same time in this access mode, for example, no or only a slight pivoting of the closing segments 301 - 304 in relation to each other. In some examples, the illustrated access mode also includes adjusting the vehicle closure member in the direction of the axis of rotation D1 , For example, by automatically moving the vehicle closing element along the axis of rotation D1 ,

4D shows a further illustration of the vehicle 400 , In this case, there is the vehicle closure element 300 in the open position according to another access mode. The in 4D illustrated access mode includes both turning the vehicle closure member 300 around the axis of rotation D1 as well as a pivoting of all locking segments in pairs with respect to each other.

4E shows a perspective view of the vehicle 400 , The position of the vehicle closure element 300 corresponds to the in 4D shown. From the view in 4E are in particular the positions of the closing segments 301 - 304 in terms of each other clearly. The closing segment 302 is opposite the closing segment 301 pivoted outward, whereas the closing segment 303 in relation to the closing segment 302 as well as the closing segment 304 in relation to the closing segment 303 are each pivoted to the vehicle center plane. In addition, it can be seen that in the access mode shown, the vehicle closure element 300 opposite to the 4A shown closed position about the axis of rotation D1 turned up.

In accordance with the foregoing, the vehicle closure member permits 300 an adjustment optionally according to different access modes. Each of the examples shown from the 4B to 4E has different advantages. For example, the in 4B Access mode shown a simple realization even with manual operation. In addition, this access mode is particularly suitable when there are no objects near the vehicle 400 are or expected to be the opening of the vehicle closure element 300 could complicate or hinder in the mode shown or even by the swung-out vehicle closure element 300 could be hampered. The in 4C on the other hand has the advantage that the vehicle closure element 300 has no or only a slight lateral pivoting range. This can be particularly collisions with objects in lateral proximity to the vehicle 400 be avoided. In addition, vehicle access is facilitated in the presence of other objects, for example in tight parking spaces. The in 4D and 4E Access mode shown also has a reduced lateral swivel range. At the same time, a vertical turning or swivel range in relation to the in 4C shown reduced mode. This access mode also has the advantage of being a user of the vehicle 400 For example, it can provide protection against adverse weather conditions and other external circumstances when entering and exiting.

Some examples of the vehicle closure element 300 allow further or different access modes. In addition, in some examples, at least two of the locking segments 301 -304 separably connected. By selectively releasing or connecting the separably connected locking segments in the closed position of the vehicle closure element 300 For example, it is possible to change a circumference to which the body opening 420 when opening the vehicle closure element 300 is opened. Thus, in some examples, the rearward closing segment is 304 from the middle closing segment 303 detachably formed. This allows, by separating the closing segment 304 from the middle closing segment 303 the body opening 420 For example, to open only in the field of a driver's seat.

In such examples, where at least two of the locking segments 301 - 304 separable connected to each other, there are also other access modes from that, for example, with reference to 4B to 4E access modes described in each case with all locking segments 301 - 304 in a connected state and alternatively, as far as applicable, with one or more closing segments in a separated state can be realized.

Other examples of vehicle locking systems, in particular those with a different from the examples shown segmentation or a different arrangement of rotary or pivot axes, in turn allow other or more access modes analogous to the foregoing. In some examples, the vehicle closure member 300 for example not the axis of rotation D1 on. Here, different access modes differ, for example, with respect to at least one pivot axis about which one or more of the closure segments are pivoted upon opening according to the particular access mode, and / or with respect to a direction and / or extent to which one or more of the Locking segments are pivoted at opening according to the respective access mode.

The various access modes are in some examples by manually moving the vehicle closure member 300 realizable. In other examples, the vehicle includes 400 Furthermore, an adjusting device, for example with one or more motors, for automatically adjusting the vehicle closing element 300 , The adjustment device can be controlled differently, for example, according to the different access modes.

In some examples, where the vehicle 400 to a vehicle locking system with a vehicle closure element 300 and an associated adjustment device, the access mode to be used is selectable from one of the different feasible access modes. For example, such a vehicle locking system comprises an operating element, by means of which a user of the vehicle 400 in the individual case under the different access modes can select. Such a selection can take place, for example, taking into account the above-mentioned advantages of the different access modes.

In other examples, the vehicle locking system includes a sensor device that provides a sensing amount around the vehicle 400 detected. In this case, the vehicle locking system is designed to determine the access mode to be used by using a signal of the sensor device. For example, a sensor signal may indicate the presence of another vehicle or other object in close lateral proximity to the vehicle 400 point out. In such a case, the vehicle locking system sets to open the vehicle closure member 300 the access mode automatically, for example, on one of in 4C to 4E fixed access modes. In other examples, a sensor device of the vehicle locking system is configured to occupy a seat within the vehicle 400 capture. Acts in such a situation, for example, the driver of the vehicle 400 a control element for opening the vehicle closure element, it is automatically a selection of such an access mode, solved in the rear closing segments of the vehicle closure element and only the front closing segments are opened.

The multiple segmentation of the vehicle closure element 300 allows an advantageous and needs-based distribution of functional vehicle elements with respect to different closing segments. For example, some closure segments may be provided with movable discs and window regulators, while other closure segments have rigid glazing. In addition, in the case of vehicle damage, segmentation favors replacement of parts only in the immediate affected area.

5 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle locking system 500 , The vehicle locking system 500 includes a vehicle closure element 510 and an adjusting device 520 , The adjustment 520 is adapted to an orientation of the vehicle closure element 510 with respect to a body opening of a vehicle, optionally in accordance with one of various access modes of the vehicle locking system 500 to adjust, as described above.

In the example shown, the vehicle closure member 510 a pivot axis S1 and a rotation axis D1 on. The pivot axis S1 and the rotation axis D1 are aligned substantially perpendicular to each other. In this case, a first access mode of the vehicle closure element corresponds 510 for example, a pivoting of the vehicle closure element 510 around the pivot axis S1 without or with only slight rotation of the vehicle closure element 510 around the axis of rotation D1 , In contrast, another access mode, for example, corresponds to a turning of the vehicle closure element 510 around the axis of rotation D1 without or with only slight pivoting of the vehicle closure element 510 around the pivot axis S1 , Other examples of possible access modes include any combination of vehicle closure member adjustments 510 around the axis of rotation D1 and / or the pivot axis S1 in any direction and to any extent. In other examples, the vehicle closure member 510 instead, instead of the axis of rotation D1 one or more further pivot axes, for example, between a plurality, with respect to each other pivotable closing segments of the vehicle closure element 510 ,

6 shows another example of a vehicle locking system 600 , Similar to the vehicle locking system 500 also includes the vehicle locking system 600 a vehicle closure element 610 and an adjusting device 620 , Unless otherwise stated below, these components apply in connection with the vehicle locking system 500 Said accordingly. Unlike the vehicle locking system 500 includes the vehicle locking system 600 a control unit 630 , a control 640 and a sensor device 650 , The vehicle closing element 610 is in several closing segments 611 . 612 . 613 around different pivot axes S611 . S612 are pivotable with respect to each other, formed segmented. In the vehicle closing element 610 For example, it is a vehicle closure element as related to 3 to 4E discussed. Also for the control 640 and the sensor device 650 the above applies accordingly.

The operating element 640 and the sensor device 650 are each adapted to send a signal to the control unit 630 issue. The control unit 630 is adapted, based on at least one signal, that of the operating element 640 or the sensor device 650 is received, an access mode for adjusting the vehicle closure member 610 to determine.

7 shows two identical vehicles 700 . 700 ' each with a vehicle closure element 730 . 730 ' according to another example. The vehicle closure elements 730 . 730 ' of the two vehicles 700 . 700 ' are shown in different positions. Unless otherwise stated below, this applies to the vehicles 700 . 700 ' and the vehicle closure elements 730 . 730 ' the above said accordingly. The vehicle closure elements 730 . 730 ' For example, each is part of a vehicle locking system as described above.

The vehicle closing element 730 ' of the vehicle 700 ' is in a closed position. The vehicle closing element 730 of the vehicle 700 however, is shown in a partially open position according to an access mode. In particular, a body opening 720 in the body 710 of the vehicle 700 through the vehicle closure element 730 only partially closed.

Each of the vehicle closure elements 730 . 730 ' is in several sub-elements 732 . 734 . 736 . 738 divided. Each of the subelements 732 . 734 . 736 . 738 has a plurality of locking segments, which are connected in pairs pivotable about partially non-parallel axes. The subelements 732 . 734 . 736 . 738 are formed separated or separably connected with respect to their closing segments. When opening the vehicle closure elements 730 , 730 ', a pivoting of the closing segments of at least one partial element 732 . 734 . 736 . 738 such that the closing segments of the sub-element are transferred from a stretched position to a folded position, as in the example of the vehicle 700 shown.

In the manner described also allows the vehicle closure element 730 a minimized pivoting range by segmentation into several locking segments. At the same time also allows the vehicle closure element 730 multiple access modes. For example, several access modes differ in the selection of those sub-elements 732 . 734 . 736 . 738 , in whose area in the respective access mode opening the vehicle closure element 730 he follows. At the in 7 For example, the selected access mode includes, for example, opening the vehicle closure member 730 only in the area of the sub-elements 734 . 736 . 738 whereas the closing segments of the subelement 732 remain in extended, closed position. A selection of the access mode used in each case also takes place, for example, as in the examples described above.

8th shows a method 800 for controlling an adjusting device for a vehicle closing element of a vehicle locking system, as described above. The procedure 800 comprises receiving a sensor signal / or an input signal by means of a control unit of the vehicle locking system, step 810 , Furthermore, the method comprises 800 selecting one of the different access modes of the vehicle locking system in response to the received signal, step 820 as well as generating a control signal for adjusting the vehicle closure element according to the selected access mode, step 830 , Finally, the process includes 800 outputting the generated control signal to the adjustment device of the vehicle shooting system, step 840 ,

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100, 300, 510, 610, 730, 730 '

- Vehicle closing element

101, 102, 301, 302, 303, 304, 611, 612, 613

- closing segment

200,400,700,700 '

- Vehicle

210, 410, 710

- bodywork

220, 420, 720

- Body opening

500, 600

- Vehicle locking system

520, 620

- Adjustment device

630

- Control unit

640

- Operating element

650

- Sensor device

732, 734, 736, 738

- partial element

S1, S101, S301, S302, S303, S611, S612

- Swivel axis

D1

- rotation axis

Claims (22)

A vehicle closure member (100; 300; 610) for reversibly closing a body opening (220; 420) on a vehicle (200; 400) comprising at least two closure segments (101,102; 301,302,303,311,612,613) of FIG each being configured to reversibly close a portion of the body opening (220; 420), the vehicle closure member (100; 300; 610) closing the body opening (220; 420) at least partially by turning the vehicle closure member (100; 300; 610 is formed about an axis of rotation (D1) of the vehicle closing element (100; 300; 610) and the closing segments (101, 102, 301, 302, 303, 304; 611, 612, 613) are formed about at least one pivot axis (S101; S301, S302 , S303, S304; S611, S612) are pivotably connected to one another, characterized in that the pivot axis (S101; S301, S302, S303, S304; S611, S612) extends at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation (D1) of the vehicle closure element. Vehicle closing element according to Claim 1 characterized in that the vehicle closure member (300; 610) comprises at least three closure segments (301, 302, 303, 304; 611, 612, 613) pivotally movably coupled in pairs. Vehicle closing element according to Claim 2 , characterized in that at least three of the locking segments (302, 303, 304; 611, 612, 613) are pivotably connected in pairs about non-parallel axes so as to be pivotable in pairs. Vehicle closing element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle closing element (300; 610) is further adjustable in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation (D1). Vehicle closing element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two of the closing segments (101, 102, 301, 302, 303, 611, 612, 613) are separably connected to one another. A vehicle closure system (500; 600) comprising: - a vehicle closure member (300; 510; 610; 730,730 ') for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle, and - an adjustment device (520; 620) adapted to direct alignment of the vehicle body Vehicle closing member (510; 610) with respect to the body opening selectively according to one of at least two different access modes of the vehicle locking system (500; 600) to adjust, characterized in that at least two of the access modes are different from each other with respect to an adjustment of the orientation according to different degrees of freedom the vehicle locking system (500; 600). Vehicle locking system according to Claim 6 characterized in that at least one of the degrees of freedom corresponds to pivoting at least a portion of the vehicle closure member (300; 510; 610; 730, 730 ') about a pivot axis (S1; S1, S611, S612) of the vehicle closure member. Vehicle locking system according to Claim 6 or 7 characterized in that at least one of the degrees of freedom is associated with rotating at least a portion of the vehicle closure member (300; 510; 610) about an axis of rotation (D1) of the vehicle closure member (300; 510; 610). Vehicle locking system according to Claim 8 combined with Claim 7 , characterized in that the axis of rotation (D1) and the pivot axis (S1; S1, S611, S612) of the vehicle closing element (300; 510; 610) are arranged at least substantially perpendicular to one another. Vehicle locking system according to one of Claims 7 to 9 characterized in that the pivot axis (S1; S1) and / or the rotation axis (D1) extends in a front region of the vehicle closure element (300; 510; 610; 730, 730 '). Vehicle locking system according to one of Claims 6 to 10 characterized in that at least two of the access modes are further different from each other with respect to a direction and / or degree of adjustment of the orientation of the vehicle closure member (300; 510; 610; 730, 730 ') according to at least one of the various degrees of freedom of the vehicle locking system (FIG. 500, 600). Vehicle locking system according to one of Claims 6 to 11 , further comprising: a sensor device (650) configured to detect a detection amount in an environment of the vehicle and to output a sensor signal indicative of the detection amount, wherein the vehicle closure system (600) is configured to control the access mode at least partly depending on the sensor signal. Vehicle locking system according to Claim 12 , characterized in that the detection amount comprises presence of an object in or near a movement range of the vehicle closure member (610). Vehicle locking system according to one of Claims 6 to 13 , further comprising: an operating element (640) configured to detect a user input and output an input signal indicative of the user input, the vehicle closure system (600) configured to adjust the access mode at least partially in response to the user input Select input signal. Vehicle locking system according to one of Claims 6 to 14 characterized in that the vehicle closure member (300; 610; 730, 730 ') comprises at least three closure segments, each of which is adapted to reversibly close a portion of the body opening and which are pivotally movably coupled in pairs about non-parallel axes , Vehicle locking system according to one of Claims 6 to 15 comprising a vehicle closure member (100; 300; 610) according to any one of Claims 1 to 5 , Vehicle locking system according to Claim 16 characterized in that at least one of the degrees of freedom pivoting at least one of the closing segments (101, 102; 301, 302, 303, 304; 611, 612, 613) with respect to at least one further closing segment (101, 102; 301, 302, 303, 304; 611, 612, 613). Vehicle locking system according to Claim 17 comprising a vehicle closure member (100; 300; 610) Claim 5 characterized in that at least one of the degrees of freedom involves adjusting the orientation of at least a portion of the vehicle closure member (100; 300; 610) in either connected or disconnected condition of the closure segments (101,102; 301,302,303,304; 611,612; 613). A vehicle (200; 400) comprising a vehicle closure member according to any one of Claims 1 to 5 and / or a vehicle locking system according to any one of Claims 6 to 18 , A method (800) for controlling an adjustment device for a vehicle closure member of a vehicle closure system, wherein the vehicle closure member is provided for reversibly closing a body opening on a vehicle, and wherein the adjustment device is adapted to selectively align the vehicle closure member with respect to the body opening according to one of at least two various access modes of the vehicle locking system, comprising: - receiving (810), by a control unit of the vehicle locking system, a sensor signal indicative of a detection amount in an environment of the vehicle, and / or an input signal responsive to user input to an operating element of the vehicle locking system points; Selecting (820), by the control unit, one of the access modes of the vehicle locking system at least in part in response to the received sensor signal and / or the received input signal; Generating (830), by the control unit, a control signal for adjusting the orientation of the vehicle closure member according to the selected access mode, and outputting (840) the control signal to the adjustment device, characterized in that at least two of the access modes are different from each other with respect to Adjusting the Alignment according to different degrees of freedom of the vehicle locking system. Method according to Claim 20 characterized in that the vehicle closure member comprises at least two closure segments, each of which is adapted to reversibly close a portion of the body opening, wherein the vehicle closure member for closing the body opening is at least partially formed by rotating the vehicle closure member about an axis of rotation of the vehicle closure member, the closure segments at least one pivot axis are pivotally connected to each other, and the pivot axis extends at least substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the vehicle closure member. Method according to Claim 20 or 21 characterized in that at least two of the access modes are further different from each other in terms of adjusting the orientation according to different degrees of freedom of the vehicle locking system and / or wherein at least two of the access modes are different from each other with respect to a direction and / or degree of adjustment of the orientation the vehicle closing element according to at least one of the various degrees of freedom of the vehicle locking system.

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