DE102017220691A1 - Arrangement structure and method for producing a component arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

An arrangement structure for a sealing element, wherein the arrangement structure for the arrangement of a sealing element, such as a foam bead, is designed, and wherein the arrangement structure in cross section has a central region and laterally adjacent side regions, and wherein the central region projects beyond the side regions in height.

Description

The present invention relates to an assembly structure for a sealing member, a component such as a door lock or a lock housing for a door lock, a method of manufacturing a component assembly, and a use of an arrangement structure.

The focus here is in particular in the field of automotive technology and here in particular in the body shell. Since all parts are subject to tolerances, it inevitably comes with the assembly or assembly of various parts / components problems. To achieve, for example, the desired tightness between a door lock or lock housing and the door shell, a sealing element, for example in the form of a foam bead, is applied to the lock or the housing. Due to manufacturing deviations and resulting tolerances, it happens again and again that this foam bead is not sufficient to bridge the tolerances between lock and shell and shell and shell, depending on the structural design, or to ensure a desired tightness. A typical approach to remedy this problem, for example, is to perform the foam bead according to thicker or even multiple times, for example, apply twice. This inevitably leads to disadvantages because, especially in the case of a double foam bead, an additional processing step and in particular increased material costs incurred. In addition, such a thick or highly trained sealing element may be compressed inadmissible, namely, if the tolerances are such that the sealing gap is very thin.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an arrangement structure, a component, a method and a use, which eliminate the aforementioned disadvantages, thereby significantly simplify the assembly process and extend the life of seal assemblies.

This object is achieved by an arrangement structure according to claim 1, by a component according to claim 12, by a method according to claim 13 as well as by a use according to claim 15. Further advantages and features will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description and the accompanying figures.

According to the invention, an arrangement structure for a sealing element, wherein the arrangement structure is designed for arranging a sealing element, such as a foam bead, has a central region in cross-section and laterally adjacent thereto side regions, and wherein the central region projects beyond the lateral regions in height. The arrangement structure, which is provided in particular in critical sealing areas, can be dispensed with, for example, extra-thick or double-applied foam beads. As already mentioned, for example, in the automotive industry between the door lock and the door shell to achieve the desired tightness, a foam bead applied, depending on the design also z. B. between the lock housing and the door lock or the door shell. Due to manufacturing tolerances, this always leads to tightness problems. A typical artisanal approach to solve this problem, for example, is at least in the critical areas (for example in the range of corners, radii, etc.) the foam bead extra thick or at least perform twice in order to bridge the possibly larger tolerances can. This not only requires additional work steps and increased material costs, but also complicates the entire production. For example, it is customary to use one and the same lock or one and the same lock housing on different doors, wherein these different doors differ, for example, with respect to the material. Steel doors are often manufactured with significantly lower tolerances than aluminum doors. As a result, also different high / large sealing gaps. The standard application of thick or double sealing elements may be disadvantageous here. Thickness sealing elements or foam beads or double-applied foam beads are in fact possibly excessively compressed if the sealing gap is too small. In this case, the required assembly forces can be unacceptably high. As a result, it must therefore be decided depending on the application, as the sealing element, such as the foam bead to be executed. Surprisingly, it has now been found that not only very high tolerances can be compensated or bridged with the proposed arrangement structure which has a central area in cross section, which projects beyond the side areas, but this profile is also extremely robust in the case when the sealing element is very strongly compressed, for example, if the sealing gap is very small, so thin. This is due in particular to the fact that the marginal or lateral areas are lower than the central area, so that the sealing element or the foam bead can virtually escape, as a result of which unacceptably high tension forces in the foam bead can be avoided. The sealing gaps in question are z. B. in a range of about 0.5 to 3 mm, usually in a range of about 1 mm, which may occur due to component tolerances deviations of up to 30%.

According to a preferred embodiment, a sealing element, in particular a foam bead, for example of PUR (polyurethane) foam, is fastened to the arrangement structure. In particular, the arrangement structure is coated directly with the PUR foam. In this case, the center area, in particular also an additional positive fit, is provided by the profiling.

According to a preferred embodiment, the central region has a triangular or substantially triangular basic shape. Similar to the side areas, this triangular basic shape allows escape of the sealing element to the side areas, whereby too high tensioning forces, which could damage the sealing element, are avoidable.

According to one embodiment, the central region has side surfaces which are at an angle of approximately 0-120 ° to each other. An angle of 0 ° means that the side surfaces are parallel to each other, so that the central region in this embodiment has an approximately quadrangular, rectangular or square configuration, which has also proved to be advantageous. In addition, however, it has been shown that up to angular ranges of about 120 ° between the side surfaces also or depending on the components to be mounted, even better results can be achieved. The optimal geometry must be found out here in individual cases, for example by means of experiments.

According to a preferred embodiment, the central region has a recess or forms a recess, wherein the recess forms two upper contact surfaces or contact lines. The return offers the advantage that the middle section thereby receives additional flexibility. Preferably, the recess is centered relative to the cross section. It should be mentioned at this point that the arrangement structure is preferably symmetrical in cross-section, wherein the cross-sectional geometry is advantageously constant along a longitudinal direction of the arrangement structure.

According to a preferred embodiment, the recess is triangular in shape. Typical angular ranges are preferably in a range of about 50-150 °, more preferably in a range of about 80-120 °, more preferably in a range of about 90-100 °.

According to one embodiment, the side regions have or form out lower contact surfaces, wherein the lower contact surfaces are formed flat and parallel to a bottom surface of the arrangement structure. A width of the planar contact surfaces in preferred embodiments is in a range of about 1-5 mm, the actual dimensions depending in particular on the overall size of the arrangement structure.

It has been found that, in particular, a combination of line-shaped upper contact surfaces and flat lower contact surfaces allow the best possible properties, in particular with regard to the possible tolerance compensation. In particular, the lower flat contact surfaces allow escape of the sealing element to the outside. Alternatively, it has also proven to be advantageous to provide the upper and lower contact surfaces with radii, in particular so rounded perform, with typical radii in a range of about 0.5 to 2 mm.

According to one embodiment, the side regions have inner surfaces which enclose an angle of about 40-120 ° with the side surfaces of the central region. Advantageously, this creates a kind of valley or recess or a recess, as it were, between the lateral areas and the middle area, which is particularly advantageous when the sealing element has to be very strongly compressed, since a space is provided by this valley, as it were the sealing element can escape.

According to a preferred embodiment, a ratio of a maximum height of the central region to a maximum height of a side region or regions is in a range of approximately 4-1.5.

In a preferred embodiment, a ratio of a width of the center region to a width of a side region is in the range of about 10-1.5. The above values are the result of many tests and relate to a sealing element having a width in a range of about 10 to 50 mm.

The maximum height of the array structure is, depending on the embodiment and application, about 1 to 3 mm. The minimum height, which is typically measured between the transition from the central region to the lateral regions, is about 0.2 to 2 mm.

According to an embodiment, a height or a thickness of the arrangement structure varies along the longitudinal direction. For example, in terms of the longitudinal direction, the arrangement structure is highest in the middle and then falls linearly or progressively toward the ends. This allows a very flexible and individual adaptation to the most diverse boundary conditions. In addition, other configurations are possible, for example, at the edge higher than in the middle or alternately, etc.

According to one embodiment, the arrangement structure is formed as a single part. Conveniently, the arrangement structure, for example, an extruded profile, for. B. of a plastic or a metal material. This is for example on the sealing surface laterally positive and / or non-positively and / or materially secured, for example screwed, riveted or glued. In addition, however, the arrangement structure can also be part of a component, for example a door lock or housing, and be taken into account directly during production.

There are no restrictions on the material used. The production is possible in many ways. Here are continuous manufacturing processes (extrusion, extrusion, roll forming, rolling, etc.) conceivable as well as integrated processes (injection molding, forging, casting, etc.). As already mentioned, the arrangement structure may have been manufactured in one of the aforementioned methods in order subsequently to be fastened on the corresponding component at the desired location. Alternatively, the arrangement structure may be formed directly in the manufacture of the corresponding component, e.g. B. be formed with.

The invention is also directed to a component comprising an arrangement structure according to the invention.

According to a preferred embodiment, the component is in particular a housing, a door lock or a lock housing (a door lock) of a motor vehicle, such as a passenger car. The component has a provided with a sealing element, for example, to be foamed, surface or contour, which forms the later sealing surface. The arrangement structure helps that in the substrate to be foamed in one or more subregions of the foam cross-section ideal stress conditions are generated, whereby tightness is given. Furthermore, in particular, the tightness with multiple installation and removal, for example, the lock housing can be ensured. According to one embodiment, the entire sealing surface can also be formed by the arrangement structure or the arrangement structure can be provided along the entire sealing surface or sealing contour.

Alternatively, the component is also a body component or a trim component.

According to a preferred embodiment, the component z. B. produced by injection molding. According to one embodiment, it is, for example, an injection molded plastic housing. This manufacturing method allows an uncomplicated and rapid implementation of the arrangement structure, in particular directly in the production of the component.

• - Bereitstellen zumindest eines ersten Bauteils und eines zweiten Bauteils;
• - Vorsehen einer erfindungsgemäßen Anordnungsstruktur auf dem ersten Bauteil;
• - Auftragen eines Dichtelements entlang einer Dichtfläche auf dem ersten Bauteil, wobei die Anordnungsstruktur zumindest einen Abschnitt der Dichtfläche bildet;
• - Anordnen des zweiten Bauteils auf oder an dem ersten Bauteil, sodass das Dichtelement umgeformt oder verformt wird.

According to the invention, a method for producing a component arrangement comprises the steps:

• - Providing at least a first component and a second component;
• - Providing an arrangement structure according to the invention on the first component;
• - Applying a sealing element along a sealing surface on the first component, wherein the arrangement structure forms at least a portion of the sealing surface;
• - Arranging the second component on or on the first component, so that the sealing element is deformed or deformed.

By reshaping the substrate to be foamed, in other words the sealing surface, a higher "simple" foam bead can be partially produced so that the tightness despite a simple foam bead and any inaccuracies is given. The method allows due to the geometric design of the arrangement structure for both dimensionally stable as well as non-dimensional components the required tightness, for example in the critical area between the door lock or lock housing and bodyshell. In addition, it is additionally ensured, as already mentioned, that the arrangement structure or its profiling has an extremely positive effect in particular on the tension forces acting in the sealing element. The sealing element is lightly loaded and it is advantageously also a multiple disassembly of the components possible without causing damage. Demensprechend it may also be advantageous to provide along the entire sealing surface, the arrangement structure.

• - Erstellen eines Abdrucks auf dem ersten Bauteil zum Positionieren der Anordnungsstruktur.

According to one embodiment, the method comprises the step:

• - Creating an impression on the first component for positioning the arrangement structure.

The impression can be realized via the or a second component or a corresponding pattern component, which is marked on the (later) sealing surface, for example by being provided with a color. When arranging the color is transferred to the first component, as far as the geometries of the sealing surfaces match each other. On the basis of the unmarked points or locations, it can be recognized where, if appropriate, the arrangement structure should be provided.

The invention is further directed to the use of an arrangement structure according to the invention for sealing at least two components against each other, according to an embodiment z. B. a housing of a door lock against the door shell of a motor vehicle or a lock housing against the door shell of a motor vehicle or a lock against the door shell of a motor vehicle.

For the use, the method and the component, the advantages and features mentioned in connection with the arrangement structure apply analogously and correspondingly, and vice versa and with one another.

Further advantages and features will become apparent from the following description of various embodiments or sketches of arrangement structures with reference to the accompanying figures. Different features can be combined with each other within the scope of the invention.

• 1: eine Ausführungsform einer Anordnungsstruktur im Querschnitt;
• 2: eine schematische Ansicht einer Ausführungsform nebst aufgebrachter Schaumraupe vor und nach der Montage;
• 3: eine weitere Ausführungsform einer Anordnungsstruktur im Querschnitt;
• 4: eine schematische Ansicht eines Türschlosses nebst Anordnungsstruktur sowie eine Anordnungsstruktur in einer Seitenansicht.

Show it:

• 1 an embodiment of an arrangement structure in cross section;
• 2 a schematic view of an embodiment together with applied foam bead before and after assembly;
• 3 a further embodiment of an arrangement structure in cross section;
• 4 : A schematic view of a door lock together with arrangement structure and an arrangement structure in a side view.

1 shows an arrangement structure 10 in cross section. The arrangement structure 10 extends along a longitudinal direction L and has a bottom surface 12 on. Evident is a substantially tripartite structure comprising a central region 20 as well as adjacent side areas 30 , The middle area 20 has a substantially triangular basic shape, wherein the triangle forms an angle α which is located between the side surfaces 24 of the middle area 20 measured. In the embodiment shown here, the center region 20 a recess or in particular a return 22 which is also triangular in shape and which inner surfaces 26 forms between which an angle β extends. The configuration becomes substantially line-shaped upper contact surfaces 28 educated. The page areas 30 each have substantially parallel side surfaces 32 on. Offset to the upper contact surfaces 28 are at the side areas 30 lower contact surfaces 36 formed, which in the embodiment shown here is substantially flat or flat and parallel to a bottom surface 12 are oriented. Next to it are the side areas 30 inner surfaces 34 from which an angle γ with the side surfaces 24 of the middle area 20 shape and, so to speak, reduce a profile height. A minimal height h _min is in this range, for example, 0.5-2 mm. Relative to a symmetry line S is the arrangement structure 10 formed symmetrically. With the reference number h20 is a maximum height of the mid-range 20 outlined, with the reference numeral h30 a maximum height of the page area 30 , wherein favorable ratios between the maximum height h20 of the middle area 20 to the maximum height h30 of the side area 30 in a range of about 4-1.5. Preferred ratios of a width b20 of the middle area 20 to a width b30 of a page area 30 lie in a range of about 10-1.5.

2 shows a first component 81 and a second component 82 , On the first component 81 is an arrangement structure 10 arranged, which extend along a longitudinal direction L extends. On the arrangement structure 10 is one with the reference numeral 90 applied foam bead applied, which is a sealing element. In the assembled state, which is shown in the lower half, it can be seen how the foam bead 90 deformed. With the reference number a is a distance or sealing gap sketched, which depends on the tolerances of the components 81 and 82 may be different, for example, once smaller or larger. The arrangement structure 10 However, due to its geometry is extremely robust in terms of the actual distance a , in other words, can compensate for large tolerances.

3 shows a further embodiment of an arrangement structure 10 in cross section. The basic structure is essentially off 1 known. To emphasize is only that here upper contact surfaces 28 or lower contact surfaces 36 provided with a radius or executed rounded. In addition, is a middle area 20 , comprising side surfaces 24 formed substantially square. The result is the side surfaces 24 , essentially parallel to each other. Incidentally, the middle section 20 but also a return 22 on. The execution is different in detail from the one in the 1 , However, here too the advantageous basic configuration can be seen, according to which the middle region 20 page sections 30 surmounted in height.

4 shows in a very simple schematic view of a first component 81 in the form of a housing, such as a lock housing of a door lock, seen in the view bottom left from the side, in the view above so folded up that virtually the interior of the housing or a circumferential sealing surface 92 is recognizable. About the sealing surface 92 For example, the arrangement takes place on a door shell of a motor vehicle. Sectionwise is at the sealing surface 92 an arrangement structure 10 arranged (depending on the embodiment but also along the entire sealing surface), which extends along a longitudinal direction. In the schematic view shown here is the arrangement structure 10 in particular in a corner region of the housing 81 arranged. A sealing surface 90 is over the entire sealing surface 92 or applied along this, for example in the form of a foam bead. In the area of the arrangement structure 10 can be partially generated a higher "simple" foam bead, whereby the aforementioned advantages can be achieved. In the right half of the picture is shown even further schematically that the arrangement structure 10 along its longitudinal direction L , based on their floor area 12 , may have a different profile height, for example, a higher in the central region than at the end regions. In the component 81 can it be z. B. also act to a door lock, which is to be arranged on a door shell.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

array structure

12

floor area

20

the central region

22

Recess, recess

24

faces

26

inner surfaces

28

upper contact surfaces

30

page range

32

faces

34

inner surfaces

36

lower contact surfaces

h20

Height mid-range

h30

Height of side area

b20

Wide mid-range

b30

Wide side area

h _min

minute height

81

first component, door lock

82

second component, door

a

Distance, gap

90

Sealing element, foam bead

92

sealing surface

α

Angle mid-range

β

Angle return, recess

γ

Angle between inside and side surfaces

L

longitudinal direction

Claims (15)

Arrangement structure (10) for a sealing element, wherein the arrangement structure (10) is arranged for the arrangement of a sealing element (90), such as a foam bead, and wherein the locating structure (10) has in cross-section a central region (20) and laterally adjacent side regions (30), and wherein the central region (20) projects beyond the lateral regions (20) in height. Arrangement structure (10) according to Claim 1 in which a sealing element (90) is fastened on the arrangement structure (10) Arrangement structure (10) according to Claim 1 or 2 , wherein the central region (20) has a triangular basic shape. An assembly structure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the central region (20) has side surfaces (24) which are at an angle of about 0 to 120 ° to each other. An assembly structure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the central region (20) has or forms a recess (20) which forms two upper contact surfaces (28). Arrangement structure (10) according to Claim 5 wherein the recess (22) is triangular in shape. An assembly structure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side regions (30) form lower contact surfaces (36) formed flat and parallel to a bottom surface (12) of the device structure (10). An array structure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side regions (30) have inner surfaces (34) which enclose an angle of about 40 to 120 ° with the side surfaces (24) of the central region (20). The array structure (10) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a ratio of a maximum height (h20) of the center region (20) to a maximum height (h30) of a side region (30) is in a range of 4 to 1.5. An array structure (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein a ratio of a width (b20) of the center region (20) to a width (b30) of a side region (30) is in a range of 10 to 1.5. An array structure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a height of the array structure (10) varies along a longitudinal direction (L). A component comprising an assembly structure (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. A method of manufacturing a component assembly, comprising the steps of: providing at least a first component (81) and a second component (82); Providing an arrangement structure (10) according to one of Claims 1 - 11 on the first component (10); - applying a sealing element (90) along a sealing surface (92) on the first component (10), wherein the arrangement structure (10) forms at least a portion of the sealing surface (92); - Arranging the second component (82) on or on the first component (81), so that the sealing element (90) is deformed or deformed. Method according to Claim 13 comprising the step of: - creating an impression on the first component (81) for positioning the arrangement structure (10). Using an arrangement structure according to one of Claims 1 - 11 for sealing two components to each other.

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