DE112013004888T5 - Release lever assembly comprising an inertial blocking member - Google Patents

Abstract

An inertial obturator subassembly for a vehicle door release lever assembly comprising a release lever frame supporting an angle lever assembly and a manually operable door lever handle, the door lever handle being in operative communication with the bell crank assembly, the inertial blocking member subassembly comprising: an inertial blocking member associated with the release lever assembly frame, the blocking member having a center of gravity which is offset to a rotational axis, and wherein the blocking member is rotationally and translationally movable between a rest position in which the blocking member does not prevent actuation of the release lever, and an engagement position in which the blocking member prevents actuation of the release lever; a biasing means associated with the blocking member, the biasing means biasing the blocking member into the engaged position; a blocking member holder provided on at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member; wherein, as a result of an accelerating force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is rotationally and translationally moved from the rest position to the engaged position, and wherein the blocking member is in the engaged position by the blocking member holder until the blocking member holder is released from the at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member is held.

Description

Data of related applications

This application claims priority to US Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 709,410 filed Oct. 4, 2012 and US Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 788,155 filed on Mar. 15, 2013, the contents of which applications are incorporated by reference in their entirety incorporated herein by reference.

Field of the invention

The invention relates to vehicle door release lever assemblies having inertial locking member subassemblies with retainers for preventing inadvertent opening of the vehicle door in the event of an impact.

Background of the invention

Vehicle door latch assemblies often include a door latch handle that is pulled away from the door for the purpose of actuating the latch mechanism and opening the door. In the case of an impact event such as a collision, particularly one that generates an impact force vector perpendicular to the side of the vehicle, the acceleration of the vehicle towards the laterally acting force vector may cause the door (and the rest of the vehicle) to move due to inertia (inertia) ) of the door latch handle accelerates away from the door latch handle. Such impact events typically consist of two phases: an acceleration phase and a deformation phase.

The acceleration phase corresponds to a time beginning with the initial impact. During this time, which typically lasts about 40 ms (milliseconds), but may extend up to 300 ms, a release lever assembly may experience relatively high accelerations and, consequently, relatively high acceleration forces in the region of impact, with a mostly lateral one Movement of the vehicle door go along. This creates a movement that is analogous to pulling on the door lever handle to open the door.

During the deformation phase following the acceleration phase, crushing and deformation of the side structure of the vehicle takes place in the area affected by the impact forces.

During this time, the acceleration of the door latch assembly is substantially asymptotically reduced to zero. Nevertheless, the potential for the vehicle door to open, depending on specific impact event parameters, still exists during the deformation phase. Likewise, the vehicle door may be able to open at certain events having an extended acceleration phase during the end of the acceleration phase.

To minimize the potential for accidental impact door opening, vehicle door release lever suppliers have developed inertial block subassemblies which hinder the inadvertent movement of the release lever assembly and / or the door opening actuator resulting from an impact on the vehicle. These subassemblies are activated between a rest position wherein the door, if operational, can be opened by operating the release lever assembly and a blocking position wherein the door is prevented from being opened by impact inertial forces (inertial forces). Preventing the movement of the release lever assembly or the door opening actuator may thus be accomplished by controlling impact-based acceleration and inertial effects (inertial effects) associated with the inertial blocking member subassembly.

Known inertial block subassemblies are configured, generally with a biasing element, to return to the rest position, allowing the door to be opened in the usual manner in the absence of or after a crash event. However, known inertial block subassemblies are typically effective only during the acceleration phase; they generally return to their rest position during or after the deformation phase, which allows the release lever assembly to function, thereby allowing occupants to leave the vehicle and allowing emergency workers to easily access occupants remaining in the vehicle. This functionality may also allow the door to be inadvertently opened during the deformation phase of an impact event.

Accidental door opening following an impact may be minimized by means of an inertial block subassembly which maintains its "blocking" position for a selected time after the impact event is completed, rather than allowing the subassembly to return to a rest position. However, extending the duration of the stall action by controlling the return of the inertial obturator to its rest position may prevent the door from opening after the impact event is completed, which may be a potentially serious threat to occupants remaining in the vehicle.

An inertial blocking member subassembly adapted to prevent inadvertent door opening during the acceleration and deformation phases while allowing the door release lever to be operated to open the door after the end of the impact event would be desirable.

Summary of the invention

In one embodiment, an inertial blocking member subassembly is provided for a vehicle door release lever assembly including a release lever frame or release lever frame having an angle lever assembly and a manually operable door lever handle, the door lever handle being operatively coupled to the bell crank assembly. The inertial blocking member subassembly comprises an inertial blocking member connected to the release lever assembly rack, the blocking member having a center of gravity offset from a rotational axis, and the blocking member being rotationally and translationally movable between a rest position in which the blocking member does not actuate the release lever prevented, and an engagement position, in which the blocking member prevents the actuation of the release lever; a biasing member connected to the blocking member, the biasing member biasing the blocking member into the engaged position; and a blocking member holder provided on at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member. As a result of the accelerating force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is moved from the rest position to the engaged position by rotation and translation, and the blocking member is held in the engaged position by the blocking member holder until the blocking member holder of the at least one is released from Lösehebelanordnungsgestell and blocking member.

According to a feature of the invention, the center of gravity of the blocking member in the engaged position of the blocking member is approximately aligned with the vector of the accelerating force and the axis of rotation.

According to another feature, the biasing member may be a spiral torsion spring.

According to another feature, the blocking member intercepts the bell crank assembly and prevents it from activating when the blocking member is in the engaged position and allows activation of the bell crank assembly when the blocking member is in the rest position.

In yet another feature, the release of the blocking member holder from the at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member is effected by operating the release lever assembly.

According to yet another feature, the blocking member holder is connected to both the release lever frame and the blocking member. In one embodiment, the blocking member holder comprises each of a projection provided on one of the release lever frame or the blocking member and a recess provided on the other of the release lever frame or the blocking member, wherein the projection in the engaged position of the blocking member at least partially is included in the return.

In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided an inertial obturator subassembly for a vehicle teaser lever assembly including a release lever support supporting an angle lever assembly and a manually operable door handle, wherein the door handle is operatively coupled to the bell crank assembly, the inertial blocking member subassembly comprising: an inertial obturator; A release lever assembly rack is connected, wherein the blocking member has a center of gravity, which is offset from a rotational axis, and wherein the blocking member between a rest position, in which the blocking member does not prevent the actuation of the release lever, and an engagement position in which the blocking member prevents the actuation of the release lever , is rotatory and translationally movable; a biasing member connected to the blocking member, the biasing member biasing the blocking member along a translation axis from the rest position to the engaged position, and wherein the biasing member further biases the blocking member along an axis of rotation from the engaged position to the inoperative position; and a blocking member holder provided on at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member, the blocking member holder each having a projection provided on one of the release lever frame and the blocking member and a recess provided on the other of the release lever frame or the blocking member wherein the projection is at least partially received in the recess when the blocking member is in the engaged position. The recess includes a ramp portion arranged to provide a resistance surface such that the projection opposes rotational movement of the blocking member from the engagement position to the rest position.

As a result of the acceleration force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is rotationally and translationally moved from the rest position to the engaged position with the blocking member held in the engaged position by the resistance surface until the blocking member Acceleration force has decayed sufficiently that the biasing member can move the blocking member in the rest position.

According to one feature, the center of gravity of the blocking member in the engaged position of the blocking member is approximately aligned with the vector of the accelerating force and the axis of rotation.

According to another feature, the biasing member is a spiral torsion spring.

According to yet another feature, the blocking member intercepts and prevents the activation of the bell crank assembly when the blocking member is in the engaged position and allows activation of the bell crank assembly when the blocking member is in the rest position.

In accordance with yet another feature, there is provided a release lever means for locking and unlocking a vehicle door, the release lever means comprising: a release lever support supporting an angle lever assembly and a manually operable door handle, the door handle being operatively coupled to the bell crank assembly; an inertial blocking member subassembly activated by an accelerating force associated with an impact event, the blocking link subassembly comprising an inertial blocking member connected to the release lever assembly frame for rotational and translational movement relative thereto, the blocking member having a center of gravity from the axis of rotation is offset, and wherein the blocking member is rotationally and translationally movable between a rest position in which the blocking member does not prevent actuation of the release lever and an engagement position in which the blocking member prevents actuation of the release lever; a biasing member that biases the blocking member to the rest position; and a projection provided on the blocking member, wherein the projection is at least partially received in a recess provided in the release lever frame in the engaged position of the blocking member, and wherein the projection and the return are not aligned in the rest position of the blocking member.

As a result of the acceleration force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is rotationally moved to a position in which the projection is aligned with the recess and in which the blocking member obstructs activation of the bell crank assembly, the blocking member in that position being translationally displaced from the bell crank assembly is moved into the engaged position, wherein the projection is at least partially received in the recess in the engaged position, thus preventing a rotational movement of the blocking member back to the rest position until the acceleration force has subsided sufficiently that the biasing member moves the inertial blocking member in the rest position ,

According to one feature, the center of gravity of the blocking member in the engaged position of the blocking member is approximately aligned with the vector of the accelerating force and the axis of rotation.

According to another feature, the biasing member is a helical spring.

Brief description of the drawings

In the drawings:

1 a partial side view of a motor vehicle having a vehicle release lever assembly comprising a retaining member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

2 an enlarged perspective view of the vehicle release lever assembly 1 ;

3 a schematic view of the axis of rotation of a rotating Inertialblockierglieds, which represents the underlying embodiments of the underlying concept of an inertial blocking member subassembly comprising a retaining member according to the invention;

4 an enlarged perspective view of the interior of a vehicle release lever assembly, a first embodiment of an Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung representing;

5 a further enlarged perspective view of the interior of the vehicle release lever assembly 4 representing essential parts of the inertial blocking member subassembly;

6A D are alternate enlarged perspective views of an inertial blocking member comprising an essential part of Figs 5 illustrated blocking member subassembly;

7 an enlarged perspective view of the Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung 5 in a rest configuration.

8th a first enlarged perspective view of the Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung 5 which is the inertial blocking member in the position for preventing the activation of an angle lever actuator and unintentional opening of the door;

9 a second enlarged perspective view of the Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung 5 which is the inertial blocking member in the position for preventing the activation of an angle lever actuator and unintentional opening of the door;

10 a second enlarged perspective view of the Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung 5 which is the inertial blocking member in the position for preventing the activation of an angle lever actuator and unintentional opening of the door;

11 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a vehicle release lever assembly, which represents a second embodiment of an Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung comprising a retaining member;

12 an enlarged perspective view of an Inertialblockierglieds, which is an essential part of in 11 illustrated Inertialblockiergliedunteranordnung comprises;

13A -B are alternate enlarged perspective views of a blocking link stop comprising a portion of FIG 11 illustrated inertial blocking member subassembly;

14A -B are changing enlarged perspective views of the Inertialblockierglieds and the blocking link stop 11 in a rest configuration;

15A -C are alternate enlarged perspective views of the inertial blocking member and blocking member stopper 11 during an impact, tending to influence activation of the vehicle release lever assembly;

16A B are alternate enlarged perspective views of the inertial block subassembly 11 illustrating the inertial blocking member in a position relative to the blocking member stop for preventing the return of the inertial blocking member to the resting configuration;

17A C are alternate enlarged perspective views of an inertial blocking member having a third embodiment of an inertial blocking member subassembly having a retaining member;

18A B are alternate enlarged perspective views of the inertial blocking member

17A -C in a resting configuration, and a curved wedge wall comprising a portion of the inertial blocking member subassembly;

19A B are alternate enlarged perspective views of the inertial blocking member and the curved wedge wall 17A -C tending to affect the activation of the vehicle release lever assembly during an impact;

20A -B are alternate enlarged perspective views of the inertial blocking member and the curved wedge wall, which illustrate the inertial blocking member subassembly in position to prevent the return of the angle lever actuator to the rest position;

21 an enlarged perspective view of the curved wedge wall and an upper support feature of 17A -C;

22 an enlarged partial perspective view of the lower support feature and Inertialblockierglieds the 17A -C;

23 FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a vehicle release lever assembly illustrating a fourth embodiment of an inertial block subassembly having a retention member; FIG.

24 is an exploded view of the vehicle release lever assembly 23 ;

25A B are alternate enlarged perspective views of an inertial blocking member as in FIG 24 represents;

26A -B are alternate enlarged perspective views of an angle lever actuator incorporated in 24 and the inertial blocking member, in a rest configuration;

27A -B are alternate enlarged perspective views of an angle lever actuator and inertial blocking member as in FIG 26A -B, tending to affect the activation of the vehicle release lever assembly during an impact;

28A -B are alternate enlarged perspective views of the bell crank actuator and inertial blocking member as in FIG 26A B illustrating the inertial blocking member subassembly in a position for preventing the return of the angle lever actuator to the rest position;

29A Figures 3-B are views of an alternative embodiment of an inertial block subassembly shown in the rest and engaged position of the blocker;

29C is a perspective view of the blocking member 29A and 29B ;

29D -E are perspective views of the blocking member subassembly 29A - 29C shown in rest and engagement positions of the blocking member;

30A Figures 5B are views of another alternative embodiment of an inertial blocking member subassembly shown in rest and engaged positions of the blocking member;

31A Figures 8A-B are views of still another alternative embodiment of an inertial blocking member subassembly shown in rest and engagement positions of the blocking member;

31C is a perspective view of the blocking member 31A and 31B ; and

31D FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the blocking member subassembly. FIG 31A - 31C , shown in rest and blocking positions of the blocking member.

Written description

For purposes of this description, "bell crank counterweight" shall mean: "a body coupled to an angle lever actuator for imparting a balance torque thereon, movable in response to an inertial force vector from a rest position in which a door assembly can only be operated by operating a door lever handle and moving the bellcrank counterweight a non-limiting position can be opened, movement of the bellcrank counterweight and the bell crank actuator in response to the inertial force vector allowing uncontrolled opening of the vehicle door. "" blocking member holder "or" holder "shall mean:" a part or combination of parts provided with an inertial blocking member to increase the activation time during which the inertial blocking member prevents movement of the bellcrank actuator beyond the activation time that would result in the absence of the blocking member holder.

"Door lever handle" shall mean: "The component of the release lever assembly which is mounted on the outside of the vehicle door and which is gripped and pulled to operate the door latch and open the door."

"Door latch assembly" shall mean: "An assembly of components comprising a portion of a vehicle door for opening and closing the vehicle door, comprising a release lever assembly, a door latch, and a device, such as a cable or rod, that operatively operates the release lever assembly with the door latch coupled. "

"Inertial blocking member" or "blocking member" shall mean: "A body movable in response to an Inertialkraftvektor from a rest position in which the door assembly can be opened by operating the door lever handle and movement of the Winkelhebelaktuators, in a blocking position, wherein a movement of the Winkelhebelgegengewichts and the Winkelhebelaktuators be prevented, whereby an uncontrolled opening of the vehicle door is avoided. "

"Release lever assembly" shall mean: "An assembly of components comprising a cover or shield, a door lever handle, an angle lever assembly comprising an angle lever actuator and an angle lever counterweight, an inertial blocking member assembly comprising a blocking member holder, and a release lever assembly rack."

The terms "outbound", "outbound", "outside", or "outside" are intended to mean "in a direction toward the exterior of the motor vehicle to or outside the motor vehicle." The terms "inward," "inward," "within "Or" inside "are intended to mean" arranged in a direction toward the interior of the motor vehicle to or within the motor vehicle. "

With reference to the drawings, and in particular to 1 , is a motor vehicle 10 partially shown, that is a door assembly 12 includes. The door device 12 has a release lever arrangement 14 which is mounted to the opening and closing of the door assembly 12 to enable. The door arrangement 12 also has a mirror arrangement 16 to provide a rearward view of an occupant of the vehicle. The mirror arrangement 16 is not part of the invention and will therefore not be further described herein.

As in 2 shown, comprises the release lever assembly 14 a cover 20 and a door handle 22 , The illustrated release lever assembly 14 is merely one example of a release lever assembly that may include an inertial blocking member subassembly.

The release lever assembly 14 may alternatively comprise other release lever arrangements, for example in the manner of a blade or rotary lever arrangement.

Several embodiments of the invention will be described which share a basic configuration and a basic operation. This basic configuration is in 3 3, which conceptually show, in a planar view, the operation of an inertial blocking member, which is also referred to as hidden center of mass, and which forms the basis for embodiments of the invention Invention. The inertial blocker 140 includes a portion of an inertial blocking member subassembly (not shown) that is pivotally connected 144 is rotatably connected to a fixed portion of the release lever assembly rack or cover (not shown) for rotation about a pivot point about a vertical axis. The rotary joint 144 is the focus 148 of the inertial blocking member 140 spaced.

The inertial blocker 140 is about the slewing connection 144 between a first, resting position 152 and a second, engaged position 142 , rotatable. As a result, an acceleration force comprising a portion of a larger acceleration / force field acting on the door assembly and represented by the vector "B" may cause an opposing force on the center of gravity 148 acts and thereby to a rotation 150 of the inertial blocking member 140 urges, which is shown as counterclockwise, in the engaged position 142 , Conversely, an accelerating force acting on the door assembly in a direction opposite to the accelerating force B may rotate the inertial blocking member 140 in the clockwise direction.

The engaged position 142 in which the focus 148 in a position 146 in line with the acceleration force vector B and the rotary joint 144 rotated, may be referred to as a "hidden center of gravity" or "hidden SP" configuration. In the hidden SP configuration, the inertial block can 140 remain stationary until the acceleration force has sufficiently dissipated to the inertial blocker 140 to allow in its resting position 152 to return. A biasing member, such as a coil spring (not shown), cannister into the inertial blocking member 140 be taken to return to the resting position 152 to urge. A spring constant for the tendon may be selected based on the mass and inertial moment (inertial moment) of the inertial block, design parameters of the impact event, and the length of time during which the hidden SP configuration is to be maintained.

In the resting position 152 can the inertial blocker 140 be isolated from the angle lever, and thus allow the bell crank a full operation to open the door. The inertial blocker 140 may be adapted to engage and hinder the movement of the bell crank or other release lever means when the inertial blocking member 140 as a result of an impact event in the hidden SP configuration to prevent movement of the release lever assembly and opening of the door. The inertial blocker 140 can in the configuration with hidden SP 142 remain until it is able, under the influence of the tendon in the rest position 152 to turn. The return of the inertial blocker 140 in the resting position 152 may occur during the late phases or after the deformation phase when the acceleration force vector is no longer sufficient to withstand the restoring force of the biasing member.

With reference now to the 4 and 5 FIG. 12 is a first embodiment of an inertial block subassembly. FIG 176 which includes the above-described features of the hidden SP comprising a portion of a release lever assembly 160 , The release lever assembly 160 includes a cover 162 and a door lever handle (not shown) for actuating the bell crank assembly 174 , The door handle handle includes a latch arm 164 at a first end and a pivot arm (not shown) rotatably mounted in a pivot arm housing 170 by means of a pivot 172 is included. Pulling on the door lever handle can lock the door handle around the pivot 172 turn so that the latch arm 164 to the outside of the release lever assembly 160 is moved. Alternatively, the release lever assembly 160 have other lever / latch arrangements, such as a latch arrangement of a blade or rotary lever type.

The angle lever arrangement 174 includes an angle lever that fits into a crank finger 166 passes, that of the support pin 184 radially away at a first, substantially subsequent end, protrudes, slidingly with the latch arm 164 (both shown in 10 ), so that when the door lever handle 22 is pulled, the crank finger 166 moves translationally outwards. An intervention finger 188 extends radially away from the support pin 184 at a second, generally leading end of the bellcrank assembly 174 for purposes that will become apparent here later. The angle lever arrangement 174 Also includes a suitably oriented support pin such as a horizontally disposed support pin 184 suitably attached to the release lever assembly rack 186 for rotation of the bell crank assembly 174 around the longitudinal axis of the pin 184 is mounted.

At the door lever handle can pull the latch arm 164 and the crankpin 166 move outwards, causing the bell crank assembly 174 is rotated to the engaging finger 188 to turn down.

Especially with respect to 5 , an inertial block subassembly 176 comprising an inertial blocking member 178 is rotatable by a pin 246 between an upper support feature 228 and a lower support feature 230 stored. As in the 5 . 7 and 8th represented comprises the upper support feature 228 a substantially rectangular stop wall depending therefrom 232 and inwards ending in a plan stop end 234 , The upper support feature 229 also has a pin opening 236 extending therethrough, for receiving the pin 246 ,

Regarding 6A -D, the inertial blocker 178 is an irregularly shaped body comprising a generally sector-shaped hidden SP counterweight section 190 ( 6B ) and an engaging portion 192 , The counterweight section 190 includes a top wall 194 , The engaging section 192 includes a bottom wall 196 coming from the upper wall 194 rests and essentially parallel to the top wall 194 is. A side wall 1989 extends substantially perpendicularly between the upper wall 194 and the bottom wall 196 ,

The upper wall 194 includes a substantially planar lower surface 200 at the apex of the upper wall 194 in a substantially circular spring opening 202 for receiving the biasing member passes. The spring opening 202 opens tangentially into a narrow, elongated spring channel 204 from which there is a spring opening 214 extends. The spring opening 202 has a concentric pin opening 212 that stretches away from it, and through the top wall 194 and the bottom wall 196 extends.

A low wall 206 depends on the bottom surface 200 in a bow, the spring opening 202 partially surrounds and defines. A high wall 208 covers the remaining peripheral portion of the spring opening 202 and the peripheral area of the spring channel 204 , The spring opening 202 and the spring channel 204 take a coil spring (not shown). The coil of the coil spring is in the spring opening 202 added. An arm of the coil spring extends into the spring channel 204 , and ends at right angles in a finger in the spring opening 214 can be used. The other arm of the coil spring extends along the lower surface 200 ,

The lower surface 196 goes into a substantially rectangular lower wall projection 216 over, extending from the lower surface 200 extends.

The upper wall 194 goes radially away from the pin opening 212 in the engaging section 192 above. The upper wall 194 has a flat top surface 224 which are substantially parallel z of the lower surface 200 is aligned. From the upper surface 194 extends an annular collar 220 coaxial with the pin opening 212 , A stop nose 218 the upper wall extends from the upper surface 224 along the upper wall 196 and the collar 220 to move radially away from the pin opening 212 to extend. The pin opening 212 cuts the sidewall 198 to an elongated, rounded channel-like pin groove 222 to build.

5 and 7 illustrate the inertial blocking subassembly 176 in a resting position. In this configuration, the inertial block becomes 178 urged by the coil spring in a counterclockwise direction, which is indicated by the vector in 9 is displayed so that the stopper nose 218 the top wall is the stop end 234 touched ( 8th ). As in 5 shown, the engaging portion 192 essentially under the lower support feature 228 extend. The center of gravity of the inertial blocking member 178 can from the axis of rotation, in this case the pin 246 be offset with the Inertialblockierglied 178 in the resting position. Pull on the door lever handle 22 can the angle lever assembly 174 and the engaging finger 188 without engagement by the engagement portion 192 rotate when the Inertialblockiergliedanordnung is in a rest position.

8th . 9 and 10 illustrate the relative positions of the inertial blocking member 178 and the engagement finger 188 the bellcrank assembly 174 during the acceleration phase. During the acceleration phase, the angle lever counterweight 182 applying an outward inertial force, tending to cause the bellcrank assembly 174 to turn and the crank finger 166 inwards against the end of the locking arm 164 to urge. At the same time the door lever handle can 22 also apply a radially outward force. Because of the higher weight of the door lever handle 22 relative to the angle lever counterweight 182 can the door lever handle 22 move outward, tending to the latch arm 164 move outwards and thereby the bell crank assembly 174 to a rotation opposite to the angle lever counterweight 182 to force acting inertial force.

Meanwhile, the inertial blocker can 178 to turn against the bias of the coil spring. The engaging section 192 can simultaneously on the bell crank assembly 174 and the latch arm 164 to turn, and the stop nose 218 The top wall may be from the stop end 234 move away.

During the acceleration phase, the rotation of the engagement portion 192 the inertial blocking member 178 into the hidden SP configuration, which can extend into the deformation phase. Thus, the Inertialblockierglied 178 be prevented from returning to a rest position, and the engaging finger 188 can the engagement section 192 touch, causing a Rotation of the engagement finger 188 is prevented downwards and outwards, whereby rotation of the bellcrank assembly 174 and a movement of the door lever handle 22 during the deformation phase is prevented.

At the end of the deformation phase, the force exerted by the coil spring can force the inertial block 178 return to the rest position, so that the release lever assembly 14 can be operated.

11 - 16B illustrate a second embodiment of the invention that is similar to the first embodiment except that a blocking member holder is included that extends the length of the hidden SP configuration and the engagement of the inertial blocking member. Parts of the second embodiment which are common to the first embodiment are given similar reference numerals and will not be described except where necessary for a complete understanding of the invention.

12 illustrates an inertial blocking member 178 with a blocking member holding device having a substantially rectilinear, approximately brick-like blocking member stop 226 extending from an upper surface of the engaging portion 192 extends upward and along the outer edge. Not shown is a biasing element, such as a spring, in the spring opening 202 can be included and that, in addition to the rotation of the Inertialblockierglieds 178 in a rest position, the inertial blocker 178 upwards towards the upper support feature 228 can push.

Related to 13 and 14 is a frame advantage 238 an elongated, cantilever beam-like structure extending from the release lever assembly rack 186 extends inwards. The frame projection 238 terminates in the blocking member holding device, comprising a blocking member trap 180 , The blocking member trap 180 includes a sloping side 240 going outwards into a concave surface 242 passes over, which laterally over the frame projection 238 extends, and a return 248 Are defined. The concave surface 242 go inwards on a sloping side 244 over which the inclined side 240 cuts. The blocking member trap 180 and the blocking link stop 226 are configured to communicate with each other as described below.

14A -B illustrate the inertial block subassembly 176 in a resting position. In this configuration, pulling on the door lever handle can 22 the bellcrank assembly 174 and the engaging finger 188 without intervention of the Inertialblockierglieds 178 rotate.

15A -C illustrate the relative positions of the inertial blocking member 178 and the engagement finger 188 the angle lever arrangement 174 during the acceleration phase. The activation of the inertial blocker subassembly 176 during the acceleration phase substantially proceeds as described above with respect to the first embodiment. The hidden SP section 190 can the inertial blocker 178 push to turn it into the hidden SP configuration.

In a later period, which may be during the end of the acceleration phase or during the deformation phase, the inertial blocking member may 178 sufficiently turn into the hidden SP configuration, with the engagement portion 192 with the frame projection 238 aligned so that the inertial blocking member stop 226 along the inclined surface 240 and in the return 248 can drive. As in the 16A -B, this may be the inertial blocker 178 down to the lower support feature 230 to urge, against the upward force of the tendon, thereby the stop 226 and the trap 180 couplingly. The upward force of the tendon may stop the inertial block 226 in the return 248 and the inertial blocking member 178 hold over the end of the impact event in a blocking configuration.

At the end of the impact event, pulling on the door lever handle may occur 22 the engaging finger 188 down against the engaging portion 192 press, with the Inertialblockierglied 178 from the frame projection 238 is moved to the Inertialblockgliedgliedanschlag 226 and the return 248 separating each other, thereby allowing the biasing member to block the inertial blocking member 178 to return to the resting position.

17A - 22 illustrate a third embodiment of an inertial blocking member subassembly similar to the first and second embodiments except by the inclusion of an alternative blocking member holder to increase the duration of the hidden SP configuration and to prolong the blockage of the release lever assembly.

Parts of the third embodiment, which are common to the first and second embodiments, are provided with similar reference numerals and will not be described except where necessary for a complete understanding of the invention.

The third embodiment includes an inertial blocking member 250 represented in 17A -C, rotatable between a lower support feature 284 and an upper support feature 286 through the pin 246 ( 18A ) is mounted. The inertial blocker 250 is characterized by a suitable biasing member in the rest position and up to the upper support feature 286 to be urged, for example, by a coil spring (not shown) concentric with the pin 246 is arranged. An elongated, slightly overhanging frame projection 308 which is arranged in a right-angled, plane stop surface 310 ends, extends inwardly from the release lever assembly rack 186 ,

Regarding 17A -C, the inertial blocker 250 includes a hidden SP counterweight section 252 and an engaging portion 254 , The hidden SP counterweight section 252 includes a bottom wall 258 , The engaging section 254 includes a top wall 256 , The upper wall is with the lower wall 258 through a side wall 260 connected.

The bottom wall 258 goes into a radially arranged lower wall projection 262 , and the top wall 256 goes into a radially arranged upper Wandanaschlagsnase 264 above. A pin opening 266 Coaxially extends through the top wall 256 and the bottom wall 258 , A high wall 268 depends in the circumferential direction around an elongated spring channel 204 and a part of a circular spring opening 202 , A first blocking member holding device comprises a nose of the high wall 270 coming from an outer corner edge of the high wall 268 downwardly projecting, and the one radially inwardly directed inclined side 280 has the radially outward into a parallel side 282 passes.

The upper side of the engaging portion 254 has a substantially linear inertial block stop 278 extending upwards from it to the stop surface 310 to intervene to rotation of the Inertialblockierglieds 250 to limit away from the resting position. A second blocking member holding device comprises an annular collar 272 which is perpendicular to the upper surface of the inertial blocking member 250 concentric with the pin opening 266 protrudes. Radial from the collar 272 spaced apart is a third blocking member holding means comprising a semicircular curved wedge 274 with an upwardly inclined surface 276 having.

As in 21 shown, has the upper support feature 286 a fourth blocking member holding device having a downwardly projecting, semi-circularly curved wedge wall 292 which is used for analizing to the curved wedge 274 is configured when the Inertialblockierglied 250 between the lower support feature 284 and the upper support feature 286 is mounted. The curved wedge wall 292 includes a first inclined surface 294 that over a vertical surface 298 in a second inclined surface 296 passes. The inclined surfaces 292 . 296 are for sliding attachment to the inclined surface 276 of the curved wedge 274 aligned. The upper support feature 286 also includes a stop wall 288 that in a stop-end 290 ends.

As in the 18C and 22 shown, the lower support feature has a section 300 that is in the lower support feature 284 extends, and by a cantilevered wall 302 passing through a curved side 304 into a plane return page 306 passes, is limited. The cutout 300 is to the engaging plant with the nose of the high wall 270 customized.

18A -B illustrate the relative positions of the inertial blocking member 250 , the lower support feature 284 and the upper support feature 286 in a resting position. In this configuration, the inertial blocker cann 250 be urged clockwise by the coil spring so that the stop lug of the top wall 264 the end of the attack 290 touched, causing further movement of the Inertialblockierglieds 250 is prevented and the center of gravity of the Inertialblockierglieds 250 in an optimal position relative to the axis of rotation, in this case the pin 246 , is oriented for a satisfactory function in the event of an impact. In addition, the inertial blocking member 250 up to the upper support feature 286 to be preloaded as previously described.

In the resting position, the curved wedge can 274 in the circumferential direction of the curved wedge wall 292 be spaced away. The engaging section 254 can be essentially below the upper support feature 286 side of the angle lever assembly 174 extend. The center of gravity of the inertial blocking member 250 can move from the axis of rotation to the latch arm 164 to be offset. Pull on the door lever handle 22 can the angle lever assembly 174 without intervention by the Inertialblockierglied 250 actuate; the engaging finger 188 can turn down without the engagement section 254 to touch.

19A -B illustrate the relative position of the inertial blocking member 250 , the lower support feature 284 and the upper support feature 286 during the acceleration phase. During the acceleration phase, the Inertialblockierglied 250 rotate against the bias of the coil spring so that the engagement portion 254 on the angle lever arrangement 174 and the latch arm 164 to turn. The inclined surface 276 of the curved wedge 274 can be the first inclined surface 294 the curved wedge wall 294 touch and move along it, causing the inertial blocker 250 down against the force of the tendon on the lower support feature 284 to be pushed. The nose of the high wall 270 can also be on the upper surface of the lower support feature 284 to be pushed. The engaging finger 188 can simultaneously rotate down to the inertial block 250 to touch. The downward movement of the inertial blocking member 250 and the engagement finger 188 However, by touching the nose of the high wall 270 and the upper surface of the lower support feature 284 be prevented.

Now referring to 20A -B, while the inertial blocker 250 continues to rotate, the inertial block can 250 continue to move down while the curved wedge 274 the inclined surface 294 crossed. At the same time, the nose of the high wall 270 by the action of the engaging finger 188 and / or the movement of the curved wedge 274 along the inclined surface 294 in the neckline 300 "Fall" ( 22 ), and thus a rotation of the blocking member 250 back to the resting position. If the wedge 274 the vertical surface 298 the curved wedge wall 294 has happened, the inertial blocker can 250 be pushed upwards, with the curved wedge 274 in contact with the second inclined surface 296 is brought. The rotation of the inertial blocking member 250 back towards the resting position can be achieved by engaging the curved wedge 274 with the vertical surface 298 be prevented, thereby continuously engaging the finger 188 blocked and unintentional actuation of the release lever assembly 14 and opening the door assembly 12 is prevented during and after the deformation phase.

At the end of the impact event, pulling on the door lever handle may occur 22 the engaging finger 188 down against the engaging portion 254 rotate, causing the Inertialblockierglied 250 is pushed down and the curved wedge 274 from the curved wedge wall 292 is separated so that the inertial blocking member 250 under the influence of the tendon can return to the rest position.

While the curved wedge 274 the curved wedge wall 292 crosses, remains the nose of the high wall 270 in the clipping 300 until the wedge 274 the wedge wall 292 leaves, at which time the movement of the blocking member 250 upwards it the nose of the high wall 270 allow to leave the clipping. It may be necessary to use the door lever handle 22 let go and pull a second time after the inertial obstruction 250 has returned to the rest position to allow unimpeded operation of the bellcrank assembly 174 to allow.

23 - 28 illustrate a fourth embodiment of the invention. The door lever handle 22 includes a support end 24 and an opposite bar end 26 , An elongated support arm 28 of substantially constant cross section, shown herein as substantially rectilinear, extends approximately perpendicularly away from the door lever handle 22 at the support end 24 , Similarly, a latch arm extends 30 which has a substantially rectilinear cross section, perpendicular to the door lever handle 22 at the end of the bar 26 ,

Every arm 28 . 30 ends near its inward end in a respective rectilinear recess 35 . 37 , each. The support arm 28 and the latch arm 30 are slidable in complementary tubular lever bushings 56 . 54 each taken up, the tight with the cover 20 are coupled. Pull on the door lever handle 22 from the outside of the vehicle 10 The arms can be moved on the exterior of the door arrangement 12 to move.

An angle lever actuator 32 is a lazy body that is a crank end 34 and an opposite support end 36 comprising, by an elongated connection carrier 42 are connected. The crank end 34 includes an angle lever for operatively coupling with the vehicle door latch (not shown), and for angular movement about an axis of rotation 48 ,

From the connection carrier 42 extends at the end of the crank 34 an elongated crank finger 38 essentially right-angled down. At the support end 36 extends an elongated support finger 40 essentially at right angles down from the connection carrier 42 path. The finger 38 . 40 are for sliding coupling with the recesses 37 . 35 adjusted so that pulling the door handle 22 and displacement of the arms 28 . 30 away from the door assembly 12 the finger 38 . 40 can move abroad.

The finger 38 . 40 are slightly angled to support this movement. The finger 38 . 40 however, may have any configuration suitable for the purposes stated herein. The finger 38 . 40 are by means of openings 66 . 64 each adapted to a pivot 46 by absorbing what it is the angle lever actuator 32 allowed to move around the axis of rotation 48 to turn that from the fingers 38 . 40 spaced apart and substantially perpendicular to these.

The pin 46 is a slender, cylindrical, rod-like member which may be suitably rotatably supported, for example by a rigid frame or the cover subassembly 68 , with the various components of the release lever assembly 14 can also be coupled.

From approximately the center of the connection carrier 42 away and over your fingers 38 . 40 extends a block-like angle counterweight 44 that is essentially upwards projects. In essence, down off the connector support 42 and slightly offset from the center of the connection carrier 42 and the angle lever counterweight 44 protrudes a blocking member holding device which has a translation hump 50 comprising a downwardly disposed inclined surface. Adjacent to the translational hump 50 and substantially downwardly therefrom is an inertial block subassembly 52 that is an inertial blocker 58 having, by means of a mounting pin 60 ( 24 ) is suspended. The mounting pin 60 is from a pair of pillow blocks 122 . 124 firmly attached to a suitable portion of the release lever assembly 14 are attached, supported, such as a rigid frame, a sub-assembly or the cover 20 , and is provided with a biasing member or a return spring 62 associated. The pillow block 124 is provided at an innermost end with a blocking member holding device having a laterally projecting stopper block 126 having.

Regarding 25A -B, the inertial blocker 58 is an irregularly shaped body that has a comparatively thin, planar inertial block 70 having a substantially annular through collar 72 has, which extends at right angles through this and a coaxial mounting pin opening 74 Are defined. The inertial block plate 70 includes a sector section 76 , the one crowning end 78 and an opposite bent end 80 having. From the apex end 78 sideways away and coplanar with the sector section 26 extends a stop finger 82 , The curved end 80 defines a curved wall 84 which is in a substantially upwardly extending stop hump 86 passes.

The mounting pin opening 74 can be an elongated, substantially cylindrical mounting pin 60 as described hereinafter, suitably for rotating the inertial blocking member 58 about an axis of rotation, which coincides with the longitudinal axis of the pin 60 extends, may be supported.

The through collar 72 includes an annular free section 90 which extends substantially perpendicularly from a first side of the inertial blocker plate 70 extends, and a blocking member holding device, which has an engagement portion 92 substantially perpendicular from a second, opposite side of the inertial blocker plate 70 and coaxial with the free section 90 extends. The center of gravity of the inertial blocking member 58 is inside the inertial block plate 70 arranged and laterally away from the axis of rotation, with the mounting pin 60 is associated, offset.

The engaging section 92 comprises a substantially cylindrical tower 94 which is substantially tangential in an approximately rectangular tower projection 100 passes. A curved lower wall 96 covers the tower 94 along a bow that points to the stop finger 82 is arranged to. A first high wall 98 covers the rest of the tower 94 , and goes into a second high wall 102 over which the tower ledge 100 covered. The low and high walls 96 . 98 which the tower 94 cover, define a Federkavität 110 coaxial with the mounting pin opening 74 , The second high wall 102 which the tower projection 100 covered, defines a spring channel 104 , A spring opening 106 extends from the bottom of the spring channel 104 in the tower projection 100 , A straight-line blocker hump 108 covers the high walls 98 . 102 at her transition.

The spring cavity 110 and the spring channel 104 are for receiving a biasing member or a coil spring 62 configured a coil 116 for circling the mounting pin 60 having. From a first end of the coil 160 extends tangentially a contact arm 102 away, the right angle in a contact finger 118 ends. From a second end of the coil 116 and angular with respect to the contact arm 112 displaced tangentially a blocking member holder protrudes 114 at right angles in a blocking finger 120 ends. The blocking finger 120 is to lead into the spring opening 106 adjusted when the spring 62 in the spring cavity 110 and around the mounting pin 60 is arranged. In this configuration, the contact arm 112 over the lower wall 96 extend.

Regarding 26A the bend between the contact arm 112 and the contact finger 118 so against the cover 20 push that inertial blocking member 58 in a clockwise direction, as indicated by the curved vector "A" in FIG 25B is shown.

26A -B illustrates the relative positions of the inertial blocking member 58 and the angle lever actuator 32 in a rest configuration. The mounting pin 60 that from the pillow blocks 123 . 124 is supported, hangs the Inertialblockierglied 58 rotatable. The return spring 62 may tend to the inertial blocker 58 to urge a rotation, so that the attack finger 82 the cover 20 touched, causing the Inertialblockierglied 58 is stabilized in place and the stop hump 86 away from the translation hump 50 is spaced. In this configuration, a pull on the door lever handle 22 to the door assembly 12 to open, cause the angle lever actuator 32 around the pin axis 48 rotates, whereby the angle lever is activated and also the translation hump 50 forward and away from the inertial blocker 58 is turned. Thus, the Inertialblockierglied 58 do not move.

27A -B illustrates the relative positions of the inertial blocking member 58 and the angle lever actuator 32 during the acceleration phase of an impact event. During this phase, the angle lever counterweight can 44 and the translation hump 50 outward towards the cover 20 move so that the angle lever actuator 32 around the pin axis 48 turns and fingers 38 . 40 be pushed inwards, leaving the door lever handle 22 held in the position of the closed door. At the same time, the Inertialblockierglied 58 turn so that the stop finger 82 inward away from the cover 20 moved and the stop hump 86 occupied abroad. The blocker hump 108 can move up along the stop block 126 of the pillow block 124 move, where appropriate, at the Anschlagsbuckel 136 moved over, as in 27A shown.

With reference to the 28A -B, if acceleration forces during the deformation phase cause the angle lever counterweight 44 and the stop hump 50 inward away from the cover 20 can move, the inclined surface of the translation hump 50 , which also moves inward, with the curved wall 84 be brought into contact, causing the Winkelhebelaktuator 32 pushed back to its rest position. A continuous movement of the translation hump 50 can the curved wall 84 to urge along the inclined surface of the translation hump too 50 to slide and the inertial blocking member 58 to urge, along the mounting pin 60 on the pillow block 124 to slide.

The blocker hump 108 as soon as he hits the stopper hump 126 is over, can along the stop hump 126 on the pillow block 124 to move translationally until the Blockiergliedbuckel 108 the blocking member surface 130 touched. In this configuration, the inertial block can 58 and the angle lever actuator 32 Do not turn back to their resting positions because of the stop hump 86 with the translation hump 50 is engaged.

Because the inertial blocker 58 and the angle lever actuator 32 are prevented from turning back to their rest position, the door lever handle 22 be prevented from moving and the opening of the door assembly 12 to allow. When the acceleration forces have dissipated, the return spring can 62 the inertial blocking member 58 pushing into its rest position, with the stop finger 82 with the cover 20 is in contact and the stop hump 86 from the translation hump 50 is removed. The force coming from the return spring 62 is exercised and which tends to the inertial blocker 58 The curved wall can turn 84 to urge, along the inclined surface of the translation hump 50 drive until the blocking hump 108 at the blocking member surface 130 is over and can along the stop hump 126 slide. The door arrangement 12 may remain closed during the acceleration caused by the impact, but may be opened when the acceleration has dissipated after the impact event has ended.

Join the next 29A to 29E Turning now to another alternative embodiment, an inertial blocking member subassembly for a vehicle door release lever assembly is shown. Except as detailed below, the lever assembly comprising the inertial blocking member subassembly is formed substantially as described above with respect to the other embodiments of the present invention.

In the following and remaining embodiments of the present invention, as in 29A to 31D It is understood that the reference numerals used in these drawings are merely related to these embodiments and, as such, have no relation to the reference numerals used in any of the other drawings. It is also to be understood that unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms "upper,""upper,""lower," and "lower" are used with reference to the reference system defined by the drawings, and not necessarily actual vertical relationships relate to the horizon. Rather, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the orientation of the invention according to the embodiments disclosed herein may be varied to accommodate different door lever designs, subject only to the overriding requirement that the blocking member be rotational and translational in nature, as hereinafter described various embodiments of the present invention is moved to intervene as needed in the operation of a door lever assembly of a vehicle.

According to the embodiment of the 29A to 29E For example, the inertial blocking member subassembly comprises an inertial blocking member 350 that with the release lever assembly rack 400 is associated with the blocking member 350 has a center of gravity which is defined by a rotation axis (shown by the dashed line R in FIG 29A and B) is offset. As described below, the blocking member is 350 in rotatory (shown by arrows A ₁ and A ₂ in FIG 29A and B) and translational (shown by the arrows B ₁ and B ₂ in FIG 29A and B) direction between a rest position (shown in FIG 29A and D), in which the blocking member 350 does not prevent actuation of the release lever (not shown) to effect actuation of the door latch, and an engagement position (shown in Figs 29B and E) in which the blocking member 350 prevents the operation of the door bolt.

More particularly, the blocking member comprises 350 an engagement section 352 which, as in the embodiments of the invention described above, an engagement portion 610 of the angle lever 600 an angle lever assembly in the engaged position of the blocking member 350 touched to prevent son the rotation of the bell crank assembly and the movement of the door lever term (and, thereby, to prevent the unlocking of the vehicle door, which according to convention by means of a locking bar 700 is performed, which the angle lever 600 with the door latch (not shown) connects).

How best in 29A to C, the blocking member can 350 comprise an irregularly shaped body which is movable on the door lever frame 400 between an upper one 410 and ours 420 Support feature is mounted. The blocking member 350 is movable on a pin or an axle 500 attached to the frame 400 is attached, and which is between the top 410 and lower 420 Support feature extends, mounted. The pin 500 For example, it may have a shape comparable to the embodiments described above, and is formed by axially aligned openings 357 . 358 taken in the body of the blocking member 350 are defined.

It is understood that the pin 500 the rotation axis R of the blocking member 350 Are defined.

As with other embodiments disclosed herein, the blocking member comprises 350 a counterweight section 351 which defines the offset center of gravity of the blocking member which causes it to move in response to an acceleration force, such as caused by a collision. According to the illustrated embodiment, the counterweight section 351 have the shape of an irregularly shaped mass which extends radially away from the axis of rotation R of the blocking member. The counterweight section 351 may or may not be characterized by the hidden centroid feature described herein with respect to other embodiments of the present invention. As far as the hidden center of gravity feature is used, it is understood from the description of the foregoing that the center of gravity of the blocking member is in the engaged position of the blocking member 350 essentially with the vector of the acceleration force and the rotation axis R of the blocking member 350 flees. By convention, as those skilled in the art will understand, the counterweight section is 351 is arranged and configured to define a center of gravity that causes rotational movement (rotational movement) of the blocking member in response to an accelerating force such as caused by a collision 350 causes.

The engaging section 352 of the blocking section 350 is configured to be in the travel path of the bellcrank 600 or another movable member of the release lever assembly when the blocking member 350 in its engaged position ( 29B ). Conversely, the blocking member allows 350 the activation of the release lever arrangement (and, according to the illustrated embodiment more particularly, the angle lever 600 ) when the blocking member 350 in the rest position ( 29A ).

A blocking member holder is on at least one of the release lever assembly rack 400 and the blocking member 350 provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking member holder each includes a projection on one of the release lever frame 400 or the blocking member 350 is provided, and a return on the other of the release lever frame 400 or the blocking member 350 is provided, wherein the projection at least partially in the engaged position of the blocking member 350 is included in the return. More particularly, the blocking member comprises 350 according to the illustrated embodiment of 29A to 29E at an upper end thereof, a storage or shoulder portion 355 which extends radially away from the axis of rotation R.

A pin receiving opening 358 is through the storage section 355 defines how best in 29C shown. The filing or shoulder section 355 defines a substantially planar upper surface 356 which are opposite to a substantially planar lower surface 411 of the upper support feature 410 is arranged. Yourself from the upper surface 356 on the opposite upper support feature 410 frightening is on the blocking link 350 an intervention feature 357 provided. The intervention feature 357 is dimensioned to fit in a cutout or return 410 in the lower area 411 of the upper support feature 410 is defined, can be included, as described below. As shown is the cutout or return 410 in the upper support feature 410 at one of the position of the engagement feature 357 in the rest position of the blocking member 350 arranged spaced position. More particular is the cut-out or return 410 along the rotational path of the blocking member 350 arranged so that, as described below, the engaging feature 357 in the return 412 only in the engaged position of the blocking member 350 is included.

The lower support feature 420 includes a curved cutout section or return 421 in which a subsection 360 of the blocking member when it is in the rest position (shown in FIG 29A and 29D ). The return 421 is partly through a side wall 24 defines that of an opposite contact surface 353 of the blocking member 350 in the rest position and abuts against this, whereby a counter-rotation (for example, in the direction of arrow A ₂ ) of the blocking member 350 is prevented from the rest position.

Between the lower surface of the engaging portion 352 and the lower support feature 420 defines the blocking member 350 a cavity or a cutout 361 for arranging a biasing means or member 385 , The pretensioner 385 between the blocking member 350 and (by means of the projecting leg 385a ) the frame 400 enclosed and connected thereto, and further thereby the pin or axle 500 absorbs, clamps the blocking member 350 in its engaged position in the manner described hereinafter. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing means comprises 385 a helical torsion spring, although it is conceivable that other biasing means, even other types of springs, could be substituted therefor. According to the illustrated embodiment, the helical spring is in the rest position (FIG. 29A and D) of the blocking member 350 under longitudinal compression, and biases the movement of the blocking member 350 Of course, upwards (in the direction of arrow B ₁ ) in the engaged position.

When the blocking member 350 is in the engaged position, the rotational movement of the blocking member rolls 350 from the rest position, the engagement position, the helical spring so far from that it is biased in the control direction of the arrow A ₂ , and thus tends to the blocking member 350 to push back towards the rest position. Accordingly, it goes without saying that the torsion spring 385 the illustrated embodiment in the rest position of the blocking member 350 is not torsionally loaded (otherwise, it should be understood would be the blocking element 350 according to the illustrated embodiment, are forced freely into the engaged position).

In response to the accelerating force acting on the centers of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member becomes 350 both rotational (in the direction of the arrow A ₁ ) and translational (in the direction of the arrow B ₁ ) from the rest position ( 29A and D) in the engaged position ( 29B and E) moves. More particularly, the acceleration force causes a rotational movement of the blocking member 350 in the direction of arrow A ₁ . While the blocking member 350 turns, becomes the intervention feature 357 in the direction of rotation from its rest position in contact with the lower surface 411 of the upper support feature 410 and on the neckline 412 too moved. While the intervention feature 357 in the lower area 411 of the support feature 410 injured, urges the pretensioner 385 the blocking member 350 translatory in the direction of the arrow B ₁ , in the direction of the upper supporting feature 410 , which makes the engaging feature 357 completely in the return 412 is brought. In this position, how best in 29B and E is shown is the engaging portion 352 in the guideway of the angle lever 600 (which, in the normal operation, of the in 29A to E shown position down to a point beyond the location of the engagement section lady 52 moved in the engaged position) and, more particularly, encounters and acts on the engaging portion 610 counter to an ordinary downward movement of the angle lever 600 to prevent.

Due to the blocking member holder (for example, the interaction of the engagement feature 357 and the clipping 410 of the illustrated embodiment) becomes the blocking member 350 held in the engaged position until the blocking member holder of the at least one of the release lever assembly rack 400 and the blocking member 350 solves.

More particularly, it can be seen that the engaging feature 357 both due to the pretensioner 385 which urges the blocking member in an engaged position in the direction of translation of the arrow B ₁ , as well as due to the opposing engagement of the engaging feature 357 with the wall 413 of the return 412 in which return 412 is held, that a rotational movement (rotational movement) of the blocking member in the direction of the arrow A ₂ (ie back to the rest position) prevented.

Release of the blocking member holder from the at least one of the release lever assembly rack and the blocking member may be effected by operating the release lever assembly. More particularly, and in a manner similar to that described above with respect to other embodiments of the present invention, pulling on the door lever handle (not shown) with sufficient force turns the bell crank assembly down so that the engagement portion 610 of the angle lever 600 against the engagement section 352 of the blocking member 350 is brought so that the blocking member 350 is moved down in the direction of arrow B ₂ . This movement brings the intervention feature 357 from the return 412 , Once the intrusive feature of 157 the cutout or return 412 and in particular the end wall 413 has left, the torsional bias is in the helical spring 385 tend to the blocking member 350 in the direction of rotation in the direction of arrow A ₂ and thus back into the Rest position to urge. At the same time, a continued downward movement of the angle lever 600 , by means of a contact between the engaging portions 352 and 610 move the blocking member downwards in the direction of arrow B ₂ to the helical spring 385 until further when the blocking member is fully rotated back to the rest position, further engagement between the engaging portion 610 and the engaging portion 352 is prevented, because the engaging portion 352 is rotated out of the path of the engagement finger out. Thus, it should be understood that the blocking member engaging feature 357 by the joint action of the operation of the door lever handle and the bias of the helical spring from the recess 412 is released and, at the same time, the blocking member 350 is returned to the resting position.

It is thoughtful, and should be understood from the foregoing, simply an engagement between the blocking member 350 and the upper support feature 410 may be achieved by other engagement feature configurations, including, for example, another arrangement of the various devices described above.

The 30A and B, there is shown a further alternative embodiment, which in all essential aspects as the embodiment of the 29A to 29E is designed, unless otherwise stated. More particularly, the embodiment of the 30A and B by providing a ramp section 414 ' marked at the return 412 ' of the upper support feature 410 ' arranged so that he has a resistance surface for the projection 357 ' provides when the blocking member 350 ' in and out of the engaged position ( 30B ) emotional. In particular, the ramp section defines more 414 ' a transition surface between the lower surface 411 ' of the support feature 410 ' and the return 412 ' ,

According to this embodiment, the orientation of the resistance surface 414 ' so that, unlike the end wall 413 , which in the embodiment of the above 29A to E, the resistive surface 414 ' a rotational movement of the blocking member 350 ' in the direction of arrow A ₂ does not stop completely when the engaging feature 357 ' in the return 412 ' is. Rather, the angled surface 414 ' only geared to the rotational movement of the blocking member 350 ' back to the resting position ( 30A ) and thus to slow them down. As will be understood from this description, the particular slope, length and / or surface contour of the resistive surface 414 ' including the biasing force of the helical spring 385 ' or another biasing device so as to prevent the return of the blocking member 350 ' hinder in the rest position, until a time when it is no longer necessary for the blocking member to be in its engaged position; for example, until the deformation phase of the impact event or collision has reached a point where inadvertent operation of the door lever assembly is no longer possible. By the foregoing, thus, the embodiment of the 30A and B are understood to allow it, by the action of the helical spring 385 ' or other biasing means, the blocking member 350 ' to automatically return to the resting position after the impact event.

31A to D show yet another alternative embodiment of an inertial blocking member subassembly comprising a blocking member 350 '' comprising, with the release lever assembly rack 400 '' is associated. The blocking member 150 '' is in all material aspects as the embodiment of the 29A to 29E is designed, unless otherwise stated.

The blocking member 350 '' is movable on a pin or an axle 500 '' mounted on the frame 400 '' is attached and located between the top 410 '' and lower 420 '' Support feature extends. The pin 500 '' For example, it may take on a similar form to that of the previously described embodiments and is formed by axially aligned openings 357 '' . 358 '' in the body of the blocking member 350 '' are defined. It is understood that the pin 500 '' the rotation axis R for the blocking member 350 '' Are defined.

The blocking member 350 '' can visible the engaging feature of 357 . 357 ' the embodiments of the 29A to 30B missing during the upper support feature 410 '' visible the return or cutout 412 . 412 ' these embodiments are missing. This upper surface of the blocking member and opposite lower surface of the upper support feature are, rather, substantially planar surfaces.

Instead of the engagement feature of the previous embodiments, the blocking member defines 350 '' the embodiments of the 31A to D a longitudinal contact surface 353 '' near the lower support feature 420 '' , Accordingly, the lower support feature includes a stepped cutout that forms a first return 421 '' which extends from the upper surface 422 '' at a first depth to the lower support feature 420 '' extends. The first depth of the first return is determined by the position of the step 423 '' defined, this step is an upper surface 424 '' and a side wall 425 '' that in a second return 426 '' passes, extending from the upper surface 424 '' extends to a second depth. The connection between the upper surface 424 '' and the side wall 425 '' of the step 423 '' defines a transitional edge between the first 421 '' and the second 446 '' Return. Furthermore, the section defines a side wall 427 '' between the upper surface 422 '' and the upper surface 424 '' how best in 31B to see.

As in the previous embodiment, the blocking member defines 350 '' a cavity or a cutout 361 '' between the lower surface of the engaging portion 352 '' and the lower support feature 420 '' for arranging a biasing means or a biasing member 385 '' (please refer 31C ). According to the embodiment of 31A to D biases the pretensioner 385 '' the blocking member he 350 '' in the resting position of 31A before, by the blocking member up in the direction of arrow B ₁ and away from engagement with the second return 426 '' urges, whereby the upper surface of the blocking member and the opposite lower surface of the upper support feature are brought into contact.

As described below, the force of the pretensioner 385 '' - which, in the illustrated embodiment, comprises a helical torsion spring - selected so that it is sufficiently weak to (i) the blocking member 350 '' not on a movement (in the direction of arrow B ₂ ) in the engaged position ( 31B ) and (ii) the blocking member 350 '' in its rest position only to urge (Figs A to D) after the acceleration force has decayed sufficiently, so that the interposition of the blocking member 350 '' is no longer necessary in the engaged position.

As a result of the acceleration force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member 350 '' (as defined by the counterweight section), becomes the blocking member 350 '' in the direction of rotation (shown by the arrow A ₁ ) from the rest position ( 31A ) to the engaged position ( 31B ) to move. While the blocking member 350 '' at the transition edge of the step 423 '' between the first 421 '' and second 426 '' Turned back jumps, moves the engagement portion 352 '' in a rotational position in which the engagement portion 352 '' in the guideway of the angle lever 600 is arranged and, in particular, the engagement portion 610 face and opposes him to the normal downward movement of the angle lever 600 to prevent. While the angle lever 600 is rotating due to the force of the impact event, the engagement portion moves 610 down, being on the engaging section 352 '' acts to block the block 350 '' to push down in the direction of arrow B ₂ . This downward movement brings the lower portion of the blocking member 350 '' in the second return 426 '' , against the biasing force of the pretensioner 385 '' (please refer 31B ). In this engaged position also enters the side wall 425 '' the contact surface 353 '' of the blocking member 350 '' and opposes it, thereby preventing a rotational movement of the blocking member in the direction of the arrow A ₂ (in this case, back to the rest position).

With sufficient deceleration of the acceleration force - for example, at the end of the impact event - when the angle lever 600 is no longer crowded, against the engagement section 352 '' of the blocking member 350 '' to act, urges the biasing force of the biasing device 385 '' the blocking member 350 '' translationally upward (in the present case in the direction of the arrow B ₁ ) and from the second return 426 '' out. As can be understood from the above description, this upward movement can also be the angle lever 600 move upward while the engaging portion 352 '' on the engaging section 610 causes (as far as the angle lever 600 not already returned to its original position by other means).

At the same time, the pretensioner clamps 385 '' - For example, in the illustrated embodiment by means of the torsional force which is exerted in the direction of arrow A ₂ by the coil spring - the blocking member 350 '' in the direction of rotation in the direction of arrow A ₂ and back to the rest position (in which the side wall 427 ' the contact surface 353 '' of the blocking member 350 '' confront and oppose it, as best in 31B shown).

Alternatively, it is to be understood from the foregoing disclosure with respect to other embodiments of the present invention that the biasing force of the biasing means may be insufficient to automatically return the blocking member to the rest position upon cessation of the accelerating force and that the blocking member is instead held in the engaged position. until it is released therefrom by manual actuation of the release lever assembly, for example, in a manner described elsewhere herein.

The inertial blocking member subassembly described and illustrated herein may be readily used in vehicle door release lever assemblies. Minor changes to the release lever assembly and the inertial block subassembly can be developed to allow the release lever assembly to be incorporated into virtually any vehicle. The inertial block subassembly includes a minimum of components, thereby optimizing the repeatability and effectiveness of the fuse function and minimizing manufacturing and installation costs. The inertial blocking member subassembly may be incorporated into a release lever assembly for movement about a horizontal axis or a vertical axis. In both configurations, the inertial blocking member subassembly engages during the acceleration phase and this engagement occurs during and after the deformation phase of an impact event to maintain the door handle in a locked condition until all acceleration forces have subsided and / or the door handle is pulled.

Similarly, and as noted above, it will be understood that the inertial block subassembly may be adapted to engage any suitable component or components of a particular door latch assembly, including, as disclosed herein, the bell crank and / or bell crank actuator components of the bell crank assembly.

Although the invention has been particularly described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this has been done by way of illustration and not limitation of the scope. Reasonable variations and changes are possible within the scope of the foregoing disclosure and drawings without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (14)

An inertial obturator subassembly for a vehicle door release lever assembly comprising a release lever frame supporting an angular lever assembly and a manually operable door lever handle, the door lever handle being in operative communication with the bell crank assembly, the inertial blocking member subassembly comprising: an inertial blocking member associated with the release lever assembly frame, the blocking member having a center of gravity offset from a rotational axis, and wherein the blocking member is rotationally and translationally displaced between a rest position in which the blocking member does not prevent actuation of the release lever and an engaged position which the blocking member prevents actuation of the release lever, is movable; a biasing means associated with the blocking member, the biasing means biasing the blocking member into the engaged position; a blocking member holder provided on at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member; wherein, as a result of an accelerating force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is rotationally and translationally moved from the rest position to the engaged position, and wherein the blocking member is in the engaged position by the blocking member holder until the blocking member holder is released from the at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member is held. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 1, wherein, in the engaging position of the blocking member, the center of gravity of the blocking member is approximately aligned with the vector of the accelerating force and the axis of rotation. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 1, wherein said biasing means is a helical torsion spring. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the blocking member intercepts and prevents the bell crank assembly when the blocking member is in the engaged position, and wherein the blocking member allows actuation of the bell crank assembly when the blocking member is in the rest position. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 1, wherein disengagement of the blocking member holder from the at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member is effected by actuating the release lever assembly. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 1, wherein the blocking member holder is associated with each of the release lever frame and the blocking member. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 6, wherein the blocking member holder each has a projection provided on one of the release lever frame or the blocking member and a recess provided on the other of the release lever frame or the blocking member, wherein the projection in the engaged position of Blocking member is at least partially received in the recess. An inertial blocking member subassembly for a vehicle door release lever assembly, comprising a release lever frame supporting an angle lever assembly and a manually operable door lever handle, the door handle handle being in operative communication with the bell crank assembly, the inertial blocking member subassembly comprising: an inertial blocking member associated with the release lever assembly frame, the blocking member having a center of gravity, which is offset to a rotational axis, and wherein the blocking member is rotationally and translationally movable between a rest position in which the blocking member does not prevent actuation of the release lever, and an engagement position in which the blocking member prevents actuation of the release lever; a biasing means associated with the blocking member, the biasing means comprising The blocking member is biased from the rest position to the engaged position along a translational axis, and wherein the biasing means further biases the blocking member along a rotational axis from the engaged position to the rest position; a blocking member holder provided on at least one of the release lever assembly frame and the blocking member, the blocking member holder each having a projection provided on one of the release lever frame or the blocking member and a recess provided on the other of the release lever frame or the blocking member is, wherein the projection is at least partially received in an engaged position of the blocking member in the recess; the return having a ramp portion arranged to provide a resistance surface for the projection to resist rotational movement of the blocking member from the engaged position to the rest position; and wherein, as a result of the accelerating force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is rotationally and translationally moved from the rest position to the engaged position, and wherein the blocking member is held in the engaged position by the resistive surface until the accelerating force has sufficiently decayed so that the biasing means can move the blocking member to the rest position. An inertial block subassembly according to claim 8, wherein, in the engaged position of the blocking member, the center of gravity of the blocking member is approximately aligned with the vector of the accelerating force and the axis of rotation. An inertial block subassembly according to claim 8, wherein said biasing means is a helical torsion spring. The inertial blocking member subassembly of claim 8, wherein the blocking member intercepts and prevents the bell crank assembly when the blocking member is in the engaged position, and wherein the blocking member allows the bell crank assembly to be actuated when the blocking member is in the rest position. A release lever device for locking and unlocking a vehicle door, the release lever device comprising: a release lever frame supporting an angle lever assembly and a manually operable door lever handle, wherein the door handle handle is operatively connected to the bell crank assembly; an inertial blocking member subassembly activated by an accelerating force associated with an impact event, the blocking link subassembly having an inertial blocking member associated with the release lever assembly frame for rotational and translational movement relative thereto, the blocking member having a center of gravity offset from a rotational axis and wherein the blocking member is rotationally and translationally movable between a rest position in which the blocking member does not prevent actuation of the release lever and an engagement position in which the blocking member prevents actuation of the release lever; a biasing means biasing the blocking member to the rest position; a protrusion provided on the blocking member, wherein the protrusion is at least partially received in a recess provided in the release lever frame in the engaged position of the blocking member, and wherein the protrusion and the return are not aligned in the rest position of the blocking member; and wherein, as a result of the acceleration force acting on the center of gravity of the blocking member, the blocking member is rotationally moved to a position in which the projection is in line with the return and the blocking member obstructs activation of the bell crank assembly, in which position the blocking member is translated by the bell crank assembly the engagement position is moved, and in which engagement position, the projection is at least partially received in the recess to thereby prevent a rotational movement of the blocking member back to the rest position until the acceleration force has decayed sufficiently so that the biasing means move the inertial blocking member to the rest position can. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 12, wherein, in the engaged position of the blocking member, the center of gravity of the blocking member is approximately aligned with the vector of the accelerating force and the axis of rotation. An inertial blocking member subassembly according to claim 12, wherein said biasing means is a helical torsion spring.

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