DE102022103133A1 - Coupling for adjustable power transmission in motor vehicle locks - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention deals with clutches for adjustable power transmission in motor vehicle locks. In order to provide the simplest possible controllable power transmission for a motor vehicle lock, an adjustable coupling (10) is provided for a Bowden cable arrangement. The coupling has a first coupling part (12), a second coupling part (14) and a guide (16). The first coupling part is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable. The second coupling part is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable. The first coupling part and the second coupling part are held in the guide so as to be movable relative to one another between a primary position (S1) and a secondary position (S2). In the primary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively coupled to one another in the direction of the two Bowden cables in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores can be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable. In the secondary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part can be moved freely relative to one another in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores cannot be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to clutches for adjustable power transmission in motor vehicle locks and relates in particular to an adjustable clutch for a Bowden cable arrangement, a Bowden cable arrangement, a motor vehicle lock module, a motor vehicle door module and a method for adjusting a clutch for a Bowden cable arrangement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the area of motor vehicle locks, force transmission means are used in order, for example, to transmit an actuating force from a user from a handle to a motor vehicle lock. For example, Bowden cables come into question. In order to prevent the lock from being opened in certain situations, the power transmission in the lock is blocked or interrupted, for example. However, it has been shown that electric drives are also used to actuate locks and that controlling the power transmission requires increasingly complex measures on the lock.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One object of the present invention is therefore to provide the simplest possible controllable power transmission for a motor vehicle lock.

This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further examples are given in the dependent claims.

According to the invention, an adjustable clutch for a Bowden cable assembly is provided. The coupling has a first coupling part, a second coupling part and a guide. The first coupling part is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable and the second coupling part is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable. The first coupling part and the second coupling part are held in the guide for relative movement between a primary position and a secondary position. In the primary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively coupled to one another in the direction of the two Bowden cables in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores can be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable, i.e. can be transmitted. In the secondary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part can be moved freely relative to one another in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores cannot be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable.

The adjustable clutch can be used in a Bowden cable arrangement or a Bowden cable connection, so that an adjustable power transmission can be made available.

The coupling is suitable for motor vehicle doors and also vehicle hoods and vehicle flaps.

The term "clutch" refers to an adjustable unit with regard to the power transmission, which can be arranged in a power path, i.e. a power transmission device. The clutch may also be referred to as a releasable transmission or a releasable transmission.

The terms "first clutch part" and "second clutch part" refer to two coordinated components with which, with appropriate relative positioning of the two clutch parts, power transmission is possible at least in one direction. The two components can also interrupt a power transmission in a different relative positioning (of the two clutch parts). The two coupling parts are used for the adjustable structural or force-effective connection between the two Bowden cables or Bowden cable halves.

The first coupling part and the second coupling part can also be referred to as first and second coupling halves, as first and second coupling element or as first and second coupling segment.

The term "connection" refers to the constructive or force-effective connection of the first or second Bowden cable.

The force acting in the direction of the first and second soul is, for example, a pulling force.

The terms "primary position" and "secondary position" refer to two different clutch states.

The primary position may also be referred to as the clutched position, clutch position, or transmission position.

The secondary position may also be referred to as an uncoupled position, released position, or disconnected position.

The first Bowden cable can also be referred to as the first Bowden cable half or first Bowden cable section, and the second Bowden cable as the second Bowden cable half or second Bowden cable section.

The soul of the first Bowden cable can also be referred to as the first soul and the soul of the second Bowden cable as the second soul.

In one example, the guide is formed by a housing structure of the clutch.

For example, the housing structure has a first Bowden cable receptacle for one end of a sleeve of the first Bowden cable, and a second Bowden cable receptacle for one end of a sleeve of the second Bowden cable. In one example, the first Bowden cable mount and the second Bowden cable mount are formed along a longitudinal axis.

In the primary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively connected in the direction of the two Bowden cables.

According to one example, a drive is provided with which the first clutch part and the second clutch part can be moved relative to one another at least between the primary position and the secondary position. The drive is arranged coaxially with at least one of the two cores of the first and second Bowden cables.

The adjustable coupling is also suitable, for example, for retrofitting manually operated, i.e. mechanical motor vehicle locks, in order to equip them with additional comfort or security functions.

The term motor vehicle locks refers, for example, to motor vehicle door locks that are used in vehicle doors or flaps or covers.

The adjustable coupling is also suitable, for example, for electrically operated locks as a redundant function.

According to one example, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are rotatably movable relative to each other. In order to transmit a tensile force between the first Bowden cable and the second Bowden cable, a first radial projection of the first coupling part can be aligned with a second radial projection of the second coupling part in the manner of a bayonet lock.

For example, the first clutch part and the second clutch part form a rotary clutch.

In one example, in the locked or coupled position, the first protrusion is positioned downstream of the second protrusion.

To decouple the first Bowden cable and the second Bowden cable, the first radial projection of the first coupling part and the second radial projection of the second coupling part are offset in the axial direction.

In one example, the guide has a linear guide for the coupled coupling parts in order to enable a longitudinal movement along an adjustment path. The length of the travel is aligned, for example, with the travel for actuating a motor vehicle lock. The travel corresponds, for example, to the travel of an inside door handle or an outside door handle.

The axial direction denotes the direction of the tensile force that can be transmitted through the cores.

If the cores of the Bowden cables, which are primarily designed to transmit tensile force, are also designed to be pressure-resistant, compressive forces can also be transmitted, at least to a small extent. For this purpose it is provided that the first and the second radial projection are arranged correspondingly aligned in front of one another.

In an alternative example, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are movable in a linearly displaceable manner in relation to one another. In order to transmit a tensile force, a first projection of the first coupling part can be aligned with a second projection of the second coupling part in the manner of a lock.

The rotatable adjustment offers the advantage that it can be designed to be neutral for acceleration.

In one example, one of the two coupling parts is rotatably held in the guide and the other of the two coupling parts is held against rotation in the guide. For example, the first coupling part is held in the guide in a rotatable and longitudinally displaceable manner, i.e. in the axial direction of the cores, and the second coupling part is non-rotatable but also held in a longitudinally displaceable manner.

In another example, both coupling parts are held in the guide in a rotatable and longitudinally displaceable manner. The drive works, for example on both coupling parts in opposite directions.

According to one example, an electric drive is provided, with which the first coupling part can be rotated in the guide relative to the second coupling part. The electric drive is arranged coaxially to the core of the first Bowden cable, and the end of the core of the first Bowden cable extends through the electric drive in the assembled state.

In one example, an electric drive is provided, with which one of the two coupling parts can be rotated in the guide relative to the other of the two coupling parts.

In another example, an electric drive is provided, with which the two coupling parts can be rotated in the guide.

The use of an electric drive makes it possible, for example, to retrofit mechanical locks with a central locking function or a child safety device.

In addition, the connections to the handles can be disengaged with mechanical locks in the event of a crash.

In one example, the electric drive is designed as an electromagnetic actuator that causes a partial rotation of one clutch part or of the two clutch parts.

In another example, the electric drive is designed as a claw-pole motor.

The electric drive has, for example, an annular core structure with a coil winding as the stator, and a rotor that extends through the core structure and is connected to one of the two clutch parts. The electric drive has a through-opening for the passage of the core of the first Bowden cable.

According to one example, the first coupling part has a first connection area for connection to the end of the core of the first Bowden cable. The second coupling part has a second connection area for connection to the end of the core of the second Bowden cable. The first connection area and the second connection area are aligned in the primary position and the secondary position in the direction of the power transmission.

The connection area can also be referred to as a connection point, connection point, coupling point, connection point or connection.

In one example it is provided that the first connection area and the second connection area are aligned in the primary position in the direction of power transmission. In one option, the first port portion and the second port portion are also aligned in the secondary position. In an alternative option, the first connection area and the second connection area are not aligned in the secondary position, but are arranged offset, for example.

In one example, the first connection area is designed as a first receptacle for hanging in a barrel or the like, which is provided, i.e. fastened, at the end of the core of the first Bowden cable. In a further example, the second connection area is additionally or alternatively designed as a second receptacle for hanging in a barrel or the like, which is provided, i.e. fastened, at the end of the core of the second Bowden cable.

The first connection area and the second connection area can be arranged in alignment with the first Bowden cable mount and the second Bowden cable mount.

According to one example, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are mutually rotatable over a range of less than 180°.

In one example, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are mutually rotatable through a range of less than 90°. In another example, a range of less than 45° is provided.

According to one example, a position safeguard is provided for the primary position and/or the secondary position, with which the first coupling part and the second coupling part can be rotationally fixed relative to one another.

The position assurance is, for example, a spherical detent or a ball snap.

According to one example, the guide for the rotatable coupling part has a primary stop in the primary position and a secondary stop in the secondary position. A spring mechanism is provided which biases the rotatable coupling member against the primary and secondary stops, respectively, in the primary and secondary positions.

The spring mechanism is designed, for example, as a torsion spring or toggle spring.

In one example, at least one sensor is provided to sense the relative position of the first and second coupling parts. A control of the drive is based on the detected position.

According to one example, a return element is provided to push the second clutch part towards the first clutch part.

The restoring element causes the coupling part to be reset, and thus at the same time also the Bowden cable connected to it, i.e. the core of the Bowden cable. The reset element can also be used to reset a handle element, for example an inside door handle or outside door handle.

In one variant, a further restoring element is provided as an alternative or in addition, in order to press the first clutch part in the direction of the second clutch part.

The restoring element is a compression spring, for example. In another example, the return element is a tension spring. Instead of a spring, an elastic bearing element can also be provided, which presses one coupling part in the direction of the other coupling part.

According to one example, a housing is provided that encloses the adjustable coupling and that has a first opening for feeding the first bowden cable and a second opening for feeding the second bowden cable.

According to the invention, a Bowden cable arrangement is also provided. The Bowden cable arrangement has a first Bowden cable with a first sheath and a first core running in the first sheath, a second Bowden cable with a second sheath and a second core running in the second sheath, and a clutch according to one of the preceding examples. The clutch connects the first Bowden cable to the second Bowden cable. With the coupling, the first core can be coupled to the second core in an adjustable manner.

The arrangement in a Bowden cable, i.e. in the course of a Bowden cable, means additional functional safety in the event of a crash, since the Bowden cable only has to be held in place with clips. But even if the clips no longer hold the function, there is still an adjustable coupling.

According to one example, an electrical signal or power supply runs along the second Bowden cable and electrical contacts are provided on a floor cable end piece for connection to electrical contacts of a motor vehicle lock or a handle device.

According to the invention, a motor vehicle lock module is also provided. The motor vehicle lock module has a motor vehicle lock, an operating element with a manually operable handle and a Bowden cable arrangement according to one of the preceding examples. The operating element is coupled to the motor vehicle lock via the Bowden cable arrangement. The operating element is, for example, an outside door handle or an inside door handle. The term door handle refers to handles or other components or structures that are to be gripped and operated manually, both on the side (pivoting, sliding or folding) doors of a vehicle and on tailgates, boot lids or front hoods.

• - „Kindersicherung“ (child lock, CL), bzw. „motorische Kindersicherung“ (power child lock, PCL): Eine Betätigung des Innentürgriffs bleibt ohne Auswirkung auf das Kraftfahrzeugschloss;
• - „zentral verriegelt“ (central lock): Eine Betätigung des Außengriffs bleibt ohne Auswirkung auf das Kraftfahrzeugschloss; und
• - „doppelt verriegelt“ (double locked, DL): Eine Betätigung des Außentürgriffs oder des Innentürgriffs bleibt ohne Auswirkung auf das Kraftfahrzeugschloss.

In the secondary position, the following states can be mapped for the motor vehicle lock or for the possible actuation of the motor vehicle lock:

• - "Child safety" (child lock, CL) or "motorized child safety" (power child lock, PCL): Operating the inside door handle has no effect on the motor vehicle lock;
• - "Centrally locked" (central lock): Operating the outside handle has no effect on the motor vehicle lock; and
• - "Double locked" (double locked, DL): Operating the outside door handle or the inside door handle has no effect on the motor vehicle lock.

• - „entriegelt“: Eine Betätigung des Außentürgriffs oder des Innentürgriffs führt zum Lösen der Sperrklinke des Kraftfahrzeugschlosses und erlaubt, dass die Drehfalle einen Schließbolzen einer Fahrzeugtür freigibt, so dass die Tür geöffnet werden kann.

In the primary position, the following states can be mapped for the motor vehicle lock or for the possible actuation of the motor vehicle lock:

• - "Unlocked": Actuation of the outside door handle or the inside door handle releases the pawl of the motor vehicle lock and allows the rotary latch to release a locking bolt of a vehicle door so that the door can be opened.

The housing offers the advantage that an acoustically encapsulated design can be made available. The guides are protected by a sleeve. The drive, ie the actuator, can be mounted or provided in the air, so to speak, and no relative movements occur. The movements within the housing are coaxial. For attachment only Bow denzugschellen be provided. Even if the clutch affects the Bowden cable routing, the clutch only takes up an insignificant amount of additional space. The adjustable coupling is suitable as a universal drive. The coupling can be used directly as an interface for the cable. The diameter then only changes in the area of the housing, but no Bowden cable clamp variations are required, for example. The housing can be easily sealed so that it can also be used in a wet room. Due to the 45° rotation, for example, a quick reaction is possible, so that the coupling is also suitable for crash functions. In addition, the clutch is relatively insensitive to acceleration because rotating parts can be easily balanced. If required at all, the springs are weak. Low energy consumption due to weak springs and no relative movements plus dust protection result in good efficiency. For example, it is possible to place a (smaller) backup battery in the clutch housing. Installing the clutch in a Bowden cable route also allows for a shorter tolerance chain. The dimensional deviations of the clutch itself can be included in the overall tolerances of the Bowden cable. As a result, the pawl/handle can be designed with a shorter stroke.

The coupling can also be used with a Y-point, for example, to connect one or the other two connections of the Y-point in an adjustable manner.

According to the invention, a motor vehicle door module is also provided. The motor vehicle door module has a motor vehicle lock module according to the previous example and a multifunction carrier. The multifunction carrier is designed for attachment to a door structure of a motor vehicle door. At least one of the group of interior door handle, exterior door handle and motor vehicle lock is attached to the multifunction carrier.

• - Vorsehen eines ersten Kupplungsteils, eines zweiten Kupplungsteils und einer Führung; der erste Kupplungsteil ist zur Verbindung mit einem Ende einer Seele eines ersten Bowdenzugs ausgebildet; und der zweite Kupplungsteil ist zur Verbindung mit einem Ende einer Seele eines zweiten Bowdenzugs ausgebildet; und
• - Bewegen des ersten Kupplungsteils und des zweiten Kupplungsteils relativ zueinander in der Führung zwischen einer primären Stellung und einer sekundären Stellung.

According to the invention, a method of adjusting a clutch for a Bowden cable assembly is also provided. The procedure has the following steps

• - providing a first coupling part, a second coupling part and a guide; the first coupling part is designed for connection to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable; and the second coupling part is designed for connection to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable; and
• - moving the first coupling part and the second coupling part relative to each other in the guide between a primary position and a secondary position.

In the primary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively coupled in the direction of the two Bowden cables, or at least abutting, such that a force acting in the direction of the cores is transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable. In the secondary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part can be moved freely relative to one another in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores is not transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a rotary clutch having a coaxially disposed electromagnetic drive. By designing locking lugs that engage behind on two counterpart clutches, the clutch can be engaged and disengaged with a very small angular range. The coupling can be used in a Bowden cable run so as to interrupt the transmission of a tractive force by decoupling the coupling.

It should be noted that the features of the exemplary embodiments of the adjustable clutch for a Bowden cable assembly also apply to embodiments of the Bowden cable assembly, the motor vehicle lock module, the motor vehicle door module and the method for adjusting a clutch for a Bowden cable assembly and vice versa. In addition, those features can also be freely combined with one another where this is not explicitly mentioned.

character list

• 1 zeigt schematisch ein Beispiel einer einstellbaren Kupplung für eine Bowdenzuganordnung.
• 2 zeigt schematisch ein Beispiel einer Bowdenzuganordnung.
• 3 zeigt schematisch ein Beispiel eines Kraftfahrzeugschlossmoduls.
• 4 zeigt schematisch ein Beispiel eines Kraftfahrzeugtürmoduls.
• 5 zeigt Schritte eines Beispiels eines Verfahrens zum Einstellen einer Kupplung für eine Bowdenzuganordnung.
• 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e und 6f zeigen ein Beispiel einer einstellbaren Kupplung für eine Bowdenzuganordnung in unterschiedlichen Kupplungs- bzw. Bewegungszuständen.
• 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e und 7f zeigen einen Schnitt durch einen Kupplungsbereich der 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e und 6f.
• 8a zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel einer einstellbaren Kupplung in einer perspektivischen Darstellung.
• 8b zeigt das Beispiel aus 8a in einem vergrößerten Ausschnitt.
• 9 zeigt das Beispiel aus 9 in einer weiteren perspektivischen Darstellung.
• 10 zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel einer einstellbaren Kupplung in einer Explosionsdarstellung.
• 11 zeigt ein weiteres Beispiel einer in ein Gehäuse eingesetzten einstellbaren Kupplung.
• 12 zeigt das Beispiel aus 11 mit geschlossenem, d.h. vollständigem Gehäuse.
• 13a, 13b, 13c zeigen ein weiteres Beispiel einer einstellbaren Kupplung für eine Bowdenzuganordnung in drei verschiedenen Ansichten.
• 14 zeigt das Beispiel aus 13a ff. in einer perspektivischen Darstellung.
• 15, 16 und 17 zeigen das Beispiel aus 13a ff. in weiteren perspektivischen Darstellungen.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will be discussed in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

• 1 shows schematically an example of an adjustable coupling for a Bowden cable arrangement.
• 2 shows schematically an example of a Bowden cable arrangement.
• 3 shows schematically an example of a motor vehicle lock module.
• 4 shows schematically an example of a motor vehicle door module.
• 5 12 shows steps of an example of a method for adjusting a clutch for a bowden cable assembly.
• 6a , 6b , 6c , 6d , 6e and 6f show an example of an adjustable Coupling for a Bowden cable arrangement in different coupling or movement states.
• 7a , 7b , 7c , 7d , 7e and 7f show a section through a clutch area 6a , 6b , 6c , 6d , 6e and 6f .
• 8a shows another example of an adjustable coupling in a perspective view.
• 8b shows the example 8a in an enlarged section.
• 9 shows the example 9 in another perspective view.
• 10 shows another example of an adjustable coupling in an exploded view.
• 11 shows another example of an adjustable coupling inserted into a housing.
• 12 shows the example 11 with a closed, ie complete housing.
• 13a , 13b , 13c show another example of an adjustable coupling for a Bowden cable arrangement in three different views.
• 14 shows the example 13a ff. in a perspective view.
• 15 , 16 and 17 show the example 13a ff. in further perspective views.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

1 1 shows schematically an example of an adjustable coupling 10 for a Bowden cable arrangement. The coupling has a first coupling part 12 , a second coupling part 14 and a guide 16 . The first coupling part 12 is designed for connection to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable. The second coupling part 14 is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable. The first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 are held in the guide 16 such that they can move relative to one another between a primary position S1 and a secondary position S2. In the primary position S1, the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 are positively coupled to one another in the direction of the two Bowden cables such that a force acting in the direction of the cores can be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable. In the secondary position S2, the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 can be moved freely relative to one another in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores cannot be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable.

The adjustable positive connection is indicated with a coupling area 18 . For a better understanding, in 1 the first Bowden cable with a first core 20 and a first end 22 is shown. The second bowden cable is shown with a second core 24 and a second end 26 .

As an option (see also 6 ff.) It is provided that a drive 27 is provided with which the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 can be moved relative to one another at least between the primary position S1 and the secondary position S2. The drive 27 is arranged coaxially with at least one of the two cores 20, 24 of the first and second Bowden cables.

2 shows schematically an example of a Bowden cable arrangement 28. The Bowden cable arrangement 28 has a first Bowden cable 30 with a first sheath 32 and a first core 34 running in the first sheath 32. The Bowden cable arrangement 28 also has a second Bowden cable 36 with a second sleeve 38 and a second core 40 running in the second sleeve 38 . The Bowden cable arrangement 28 also has a clutch 10 according to one of the preceding and following examples. The clutch 10 connects the first Bowden cable 30 to the second Bowden cable 36. With the clutch 10, the first core 34 can be coupled to the second core 40 in an adjustable manner.

In 2 two first ends 42a, 42b are shown schematically for the first Bowden cable 30, and two second ends 44a, 44b for the second Bowden cable 36. The ends 42a, 42b and 44a, 44b are used for power transmission and are designed, for example, as barrel or hook-shaped ends that can be hooked into corresponding receptacles.

As an option is in 2 shown that an electrical signal or power supply 45 runs along, for example, the second Bowden cable 36 and electrical contacts are provided on a Bodenzugendstück (not shown in detail) for connection to electrical contacts of a motor vehicle lock or handle device.

3 shows schematically an example of a motor vehicle lock module 46. The motor vehicle lock module 46 has a motor vehicle lock 48, an operating element 50 having a manually operable handle, and an example of the Bowden cable arrangement 28 according to one of the preceding and following examples. The operating element 50 is connected to the power via the Bowden cable arrangement 28 vehicle lock 48 coupled. The operating element can, for example, be an outside door handle 50a (see 4 ) or an inside door handle 50b (see 4 ) be.

4 1 schematically shows an example of a motor vehicle door module 52. The motor vehicle door module 52 has a motor vehicle lock module 46 according to the preceding and the following examples and a multifunction carrier 54. The multifunction carrier 54 is designed for attachment to a door structure of a motor vehicle door 56 . At least one of the group consisting of the outside door handle 50a, the inside door handle 50b and the motor vehicle lock 48 is attached to the multifunction carrier 54.

The multifunctional carrier is also referred to as a multi functional bracket (MFB).

The vehicle door 56 is shown in phantom as an option. In addition, a window area 58 and two door mounts 60, e.g., hinges, are indicated.

5 FIG. 2 shows steps of an example of a method 200 for adjusting a clutch for a Bowden cable assembly. The method 200 has the following steps: In a first step 202, a first coupling part, a second coupling part and a guide are provided. The first coupling part is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable. The second coupling part is designed to be connected to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable. In a second step 204, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are moved relative to each other in the guide between a primary position and a secondary position. In the primary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively coupled to one another in the direction of the two Bowden cables in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores is transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable. In the secondary position, the first coupling part and the second coupling part can be moved freely relative to one another in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores is not transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable.

In 6a a first Bowden cable 100 is connected to the first clutch part; a second Bowden cable 102 is connected to the second clutch part 14 .

The first Bowden cable 100 has a first sleeve 104 and a first core 106 . In addition, a first end 108 is indicated. One end of the first Bowden cable sleeve 104 is accommodated in a first receptacle 110 of a housing structure 112, also called housing 112 below.

The second Bowden cable 102 has a second sleeve 114 and a second core 116 . In addition, a first end 118 is indicated. One end of the second bowden cable sleeve 114 is received in a second receptacle 120 of the housing structure 112 . The housing structure 112 is formed, for example, by an upper housing half 112a and a lower housing half 112b (see also 10 ).

The guide 16 is in 6a ff. realized by the housing 112 (but not shown in detail).

As an option, the housing 112 encloses the adjustable coupling 10 . The housing has a first opening 122 for feeding in the first Bowden cable 100, for example for feeding through the first core 106. The housing 112 has a second opening 124 for feeding in the second Bowden cable 102, for example for feeding through the second core 116 .

As an option is in 6a provided that the first coupling part 12 has a first connection area 126 for connection to the first end 108 of the first core 106 of the first Bowden cable 102 .

Another option is in 6a provided that the second coupling part 14 has a second connection area 128 for connection to the second end 118 of the second core 116 of the second Bowden cable 102 .

The first connection portion 126 and the second connection portion 128 are aligned in the direction of power transmission in the primary position S1 and the secondary position S2.

As a further option, it is provided that the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 are rotatably movable relative to one another (see also 8b ). In order to transmit a tensile force between the first Bowden cable 100 and the second Bowden cable 102, a first radial projection 130 of the first coupling part 12 can be aligned with a second radial projection 132 of the second coupling part 14 in the manner of a bayonet catch (see also 8a and 8b ).

As a further option, it is provided that the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 can be rotated relative to one another over a range of less than 180°.

As an option is in 7a provided that the guide for the rotatable coupling part has a primary stop 131 in the primary position S1 and a secondary stop 133 in the secondary position S2 (see 7e ) having. Additionally For example, a spring mechanism 136 may be provided which presses the rotatable coupling part against the primary and secondary stops 131, 133, respectively, in the primary position S1 and the secondary position S2.

As a further option, an electric drive 134 is provided, with which the first coupling part 12 can be rotated in the guide in relation to the second coupling part 14 . The electric drive 134 is arranged coaxially to the first core 106 of the first Bowden cable 100, and the end of the first core 106 of the first Bowden cable 100 extends through the electric drive 134 in the assembled state. The electric drive 134 has, for example, an annular core structure 136 a coil winding 138 as a stator, and a rotor 140 extending through the core structure and connected to one of the two clutch parts. The electric drive 134 has a through opening 142 for the passage of the first core 106 of the first Bowden cable 100 .

As an option, a return element 144 is provided in order to push the second coupling part 14 in the direction of the first coupling part 12 . The restoring element 144 is a compression spring, for example.

As an option, at least one sensor 146 is provided to sense the relative position of the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 . For example, activation of the drive 134 is based on the detected position.

A rotary guide 148 is provided for the transmission of the rotational movement by the drive 134 . A protruding tab 150 for interaction with the sensor 146 can be provided on this.

As a further option it is provided that for the primary position S1 and/or the secondary position S2 a position securing device 152 is provided, with which the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 are rotationally fixed relative to one another. For example, a rotating disc segment 154 is provided with at least one depression 156 into which a ball head 160, which is acted upon by a spring 158, is pressed (see also 8a , 8b and 9 ).

The second coupling part 14 is rotated, for example, via the drive 134 through a range of a maximum of approximately 45°. For this purpose, the second coupling part 14 has a radial driver projection 162 . The first coupling part 14 is guided in the housing 112 in a longitudinally displaceable manner by a guide 164 and at the same time is held in a rotationally fixed manner, i.e. against rotation. The radial driver projection 162 of the second clutch part 14 is connected via a driver rod 166 to a driver 168 of the drive 134, for example on the disc segment 154.

In 6a the first clutch part 12 and the second clutch part 14 are in the secondary position S2, ie in the uncoupled configuration. In 7a is a section through a clutch area 6a shown. The protruding tab 150 rests against the secondary stop 133 on one side, for example. In 6b are the two clutch parts 12, 14 also in the secondary position S2, see also 7b .

A train on the second core 116 of the second Bowden cable 102, indicated as an actuating force F1, causes a displacement (indicated by a first arrow P1) of the second clutch part 14. The first clutch part 12 remains and is not shifted. A first double arrow D1 shows that the first coupling part 12 and the second coupling part 14 have been shifted relative to one another. At the same time, the return element 144 is compressed.

When there is no longer any tensile force on the second core 166, the restoring element 144 presses the second coupling part 14 back in the direction of the first coupling part 12, indicated in FIG 6c with a second arrow P2. In 6c the two clutch parts 12, 14 are also still in the secondary position S2, see also 7c .

If the drive 134 now rotates the first and the second coupling part 12, 14 relative to one another, the two coupling parts 12, 14 reach the primary position S1, ie in the coupled arrangement, which in 6d is shown. 7d shows a section through a clutch area 6d . The protruding tab 150 rests against the primary stop 131 on one side, for example.

A train on the second core 116 of the second Bowden cable 102, indicated as an actuating force F2 in 6e , now causes not only a displacement (indicated by a third arrow P3) of the second coupling part 14, but also a displacement of the first coupling part 12 (indicated by a fourth arrow P4). At the same time, the return element 144 is compressed. In 6e the two clutch parts 12, 14 are still in the primary position S1, see also 7e .

When there is no longer any tensile force on the second core 116, the restoring element 144 pushes the second coupling part 14 back in the direction of the first coupling part 12, indicated in 6f with a fifth arrow P5. At the same time, the restoring element 144 also pushes the first clutch part 12 back to the left (indicated by a sixth arrow P6). In 6f the two clutch parts 12, 14 are also still in the primary position S1, see also 7f .

8a shows another example of the adjustable clutch 10 in a perspective view. 8b shows the example 8a in an enlarged section.

The second clutch part 14 is rotated by the drive 134 via the radial driver projection 162 . The first coupling part 14 is guided in the housing 112 in a longitudinally displaceable manner with the guide 164 and at the same time is held in a rotationally fixed manner, i.e. against rotation. The turning causes the first radial projection 130 of the first coupling part 12 to be aligned with the second radial projection 132 of the second coupling part 14 in such a way that it engages behind (in relation to the pulling direction of the Bowden cables), so that the first and second Bowden cables 100, 102 are coupled together.

9 shows the example 8a and 8b in another perspective view. The sensor 146 acts on the rotating disk segment 154 from one side and the position assurance 152 on the other side.

10 shows another example of the adjustable clutch 10 in an exploded view. In the assembled state ready for use (see also 11 ) the force curves are aligned linearly and the parts or components are distributed around a longitudinal axis so that the masses are distributed as evenly as possible in order to make the adjustable clutch 10 as insensitive as possible to acceleration with regard to twisting.

11 Figure 12 shows another example of the adjustable coupling 10 fitted into a housing. Of the housing, the lower housing half 112b is shown. The design as a rotary clutch enables a compact design along the course of the Bowden cable. As a result, the adjustable coupling 10 can be provided at locations in a vehicle door, for example, where space is available. This can also be done in the wet area of the door, for example, since the adjustable coupling can be designed to be sealed by the housing.

12 shows the example 11 with the closed housing 112, which is composed, for example, of the lower housing half 112b and the upper housing half 112a.

13a , 13b and 13c show another example of the adjustable coupling 10 for a Bowden cable assembly in three different views. 13a shows, based on the arrangement in 10 and 11 , a view from below. 13b shows a front view, and 13c shows a view from above.

14 shows the example 13a ff. in a further perspective representation, similar to the representation in 8a .

15 , 16 and 17 show the example 13a ff. in further perspective views, each without the housing.

The exemplary embodiments described above can be combined in different ways. In particular, aspects of the devices can also be used for the embodiments of the method and vice versa.

It should also be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be pointed out that features or steps that have been described with reference to one of the above exemplary embodiments can also be used in combination with other features or steps of other exemplary embodiments described above. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting.

Claims (15)

An adjustable coupling (10) for a Bowden cable assembly, the coupling comprising: - a first coupling part (12); - a second coupling part (14); and - a guide (16); wherein the first coupling part is designed for connection to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable; and the second coupling part is designed for connection to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable; the first coupling part and the second coupling part being held in the guide so as to be movable relative to one another between a primary position (S1) and a secondary position (S2); wherein in the primary position the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively coupled to one another in the direction of the two Bowden cables in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores can be transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable; and wherein in the secondary position the first hitch Development part and the second coupling part are freely movable to one another in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the souls between the first and the second Bowden cable cannot be transmitted. clutch after claim 1 , wherein a drive (17; 134) is provided, with which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are movable relative to each other at least between the primary position and the secondary position; and wherein the drive is arranged coaxially with at least one of the two cores of the first and the second Bowden cable. clutch after claim 1 or 2 wherein the first coupling part and the second coupling part are rotatably movable relative to each other; and wherein a first radial projection (130) of the first coupling part can be aligned with a second radial projection (132) of the second coupling part in the manner of a bayonet lock in order to transmit a tensile force between the first Bowden cable and the second Bowden cable. Coupling according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an electric drive (134) is provided, with which the first coupling part can be rotated in the guide relative to the second coupling part; and wherein the electric drive is arranged coaxially to the core of the first Bowden cable, and the end of the core of the first Bowden cable extends through the electric drive in the assembled state. Coupling according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling part has a first connection area (126) for connection to the end of the core of the first Bowden cable; wherein the second coupling part has a second connection area (128) for connection to the end of the core of the second Bowden cable; and wherein the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion are aligned in the primary position and the secondary position in the direction of power transmission. A coupling according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling part and the second coupling part are mutually rotatable over a range of less than 180°. Coupling according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a position lock (152) is provided for the primary position and/or the secondary position, with which the first coupling part and the second coupling part are rotationally fixed relative to one another. A coupling according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide for the rotatable coupling part has a primary stop (131) in the primary position and a secondary stop (133) in the secondary position; and a spring mechanism (136) urging the rotatable coupling member against the primary and secondary stops, respectively, in the primary and secondary positions. A clutch as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a return member (144) is provided to urge the second clutch part towards the first clutch part. A clutch as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein there is a housing (112) enclosing the adjustable clutch and having a first opening for feeding the first bowden cable and a second opening for feeding the second bowden cable. A bowden cable assembly (28) comprising: - A first Bowden cable (30) with a first casing (32) and a first core (34) running in the first casing; - A second Bowden cable (36) with a second sleeve (38) and a second core (40) running in the second sleeve; and - A clutch (10) according to any one of the preceding claims; wherein the clutch connects the first bowden cable to the second bowden cable; and wherein the first soul with the second soul is adjustably coupled with the clutch. Bowden cable arrangement claim 11 wherein an electrical signal or power supply (45) runs along the second Bowden cable and electrical contacts are provided on a Bodenzugendstück for connection to electrical contacts of a motor vehicle lock or a handle device. An automotive lock module (46) comprising: - an automotive lock (48); - An operating element (50) having a manually operable handle; and a Bowden cable assembly (28). claim 11 or 12 ; wherein the operating element is coupled to the motor vehicle lock via the Bowden cable arrangement; and wherein the operating element is an outside door handle (50a) or an inside door handle (50b). A motor vehicle door module (52) comprising: - a motor vehicle lock module (46) according to Claim 13 ; and - a multifunction carrier (54); where the multi function carrier is designed for attachment to a door structure of a motor vehicle door (56); and wherein at least one of the group consisting of the outside door handle (50a), the inside door handle (50b) and the motor vehicle lock (48) is attached to the multifunction carrier. A method (200) for adjusting a clutch for a Bowden cable assembly, comprising the steps of: - providing (202) a first coupling part, a second coupling part and a guide; wherein the first coupling part is designed for connection to one end of a core of a first Bowden cable; and the second coupling part is designed for connection to one end of a core of a second Bowden cable; - moving (204) the first coupling part and the second coupling part relative to each other in the guide between a primary position and a secondary position; wherein in the primary position the first coupling part and the second coupling part are positively coupled to one another in the direction of the two Bowden cables in such a way that a force acting in the direction of the cores is transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable; and wherein in the secondary position the first coupling part and the second coupling part can be moved freely relative to each other such that a force acting in the direction of the cores is not transmitted between the first and the second Bowden cable.

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