EP1108835A2 - Outside door handle for motor vehicle door, a motor vehicle door, and method of mounting an outside door handle - Google Patents

Abstract

The road vehicle door (3) external grip arrangement (2) has a grip retainer (4) fixed in the door and the external grip (5) is mechanically fitted from the outside to the retainer. An electrical connecting component (6) connects electrically the external grip and an electrical component, such as a sensor (7) or a switch (8), to a vehicle closure system or door lock (9) via a contact component (10) electrically connectable with the connecting component (6). The vehicle door or the grip retainer holds the contact component, so that when the external grip is mechanically fitted the connecting component is simultaneously electrically connectable with the contact component.

Description

The present invention relates to an outer door handle arrangement for a Motor vehicle door according to the preamble of claim 1, a motor vehicle door according to the preamble of claim 10 and a method for Installation of an outside door handle according to the preamble of claim 14.

From practice, an outer door handle arrangement is already known, which has a door handle holder and has an associated outside door handle. The door handle bracket is attached under an outer door panel of a motor vehicle door. The outside door handle can then later be attached to the outside of the motor vehicle door be, he mechanically through recesses in the door outer panel is connected to the door handle bracket.

If the outer door handle electrical components, such as a sensor and / or has a switch, is an electrical connection of the outer door handle or the electrical components of the outer door handle to the associated motor vehicle door lock or a motor vehicle locking device is required. The electrical connection of the outside door handle was previously done by mechanical Attaching the outer door handle to the motor vehicle door or Door handle bracket. This requires that the interior of the motor vehicle door is still accessible. The disadvantage here is that usually possible Attaching the outer door handle late in the production process the interior of the motor vehicle door is still accessible, in particular the door trim must still be open, causing other assembly work can be hindered in motor vehicle production.

In addition, the electrical connection of the outside door handle does not require one insignificant effort, for example because of an electrical cable connection between the outside door handle and a motor vehicle locking device or the associated motor vehicle door lock must be manufactured, for which in particular a connection element assigned to the outside door handle, in particular in the form of a connector with an adapted contact element must be connected manually.

The invention has for its object a door outer handle arrangement for a motor vehicle door, a motor vehicle door and a method for assembly of an outside door handle indicate the effort involved in installing the outside door handle minimize and secure electrical connection of the outside door handle enable.

The above object is achieved according to the invention by an outer door handle arrangement according to claim 1, a motor vehicle door according to claim 10 or a Method according to claim 14 solved. Advantageous further developments are the subject of subclaims.

A basic idea of the present invention is the outer door handle assembly to be provided with an electrical connection element, the same time or forcibly in the mechanical attachment of the Outside door handle on the door handle bracket with one on the connecting element adapted electrical contact element is electrically connectable. This is the contact element from the motor vehicle door, the door handle holder or the associated motor vehicle door lock held directly or indirectly or relocated. The outside door handle leads with its mechanical attachment a relative movement to the motor vehicle door or to the door handle holder off, so that the connecting element and the contact element with each other be electrically connected. Consequently, no separate assembly step is required electrical connection of the outer door handle required. Accordingly can in particular completely independent of the assembly of the outside door handle closing the interior of the motor vehicle door, in particular the Installation of a door interior trim. Therefore, when reducing the effort involved in an optimal assembly process in motor vehicle production enables.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connection element and the contact element is designed as a matching connector, so that in the assembled state - when the outside door handle on the motor vehicle door or the door handle bracket mechanically attached and electrically connected is - a very contact-safe and durable electrical connector is formed.

Alternatively, instead of the electrical connector in the assembled state another electrical contact can also be realized.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connection element is in one piece with the outside door handle and / or the contact element in one piece with the door handle bracket. So it is easy to manufacture the Components with a defined position of the elements to be brought into contact reached. However, the outside door handle and / or the door handle holder can, for example also be designed such that the separately formed connection element or contact element defined or repositioned is used to establish the electrical connection between the connection element and contact element in the mechanical attachment of the outer door handle ensure.

Alternatively, the contact element can also come from another part of the motor vehicle door, in particular the motor vehicle door lock, directly or indirectly be repositioned or held so that the mechanical attachment of the outer door handle, the connection element and the contact element are forcibly electrically connected to each other.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Ansicht eines Kraftfahrzeugs mit einer Kraftfahrzeugtür, die eine Türaußengriffanordnung und ein Kraftfahrzeugtürschloß aufweist;

Fig. 2

einen Schnitt der Kraftfahrzeugtür und der Türaußengriffanordnung gemäß Fig. 1; und

Fig. 3

eine Schnittdarstellung gemäß Fig. 2 bei gelöstem Türaußengriff.

Further details, features, objectives and advantages of the present invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. It shows:

Fig. 1

is a schematic view of a motor vehicle with a motor vehicle door having an outer door handle arrangement and a motor vehicle door lock;

Fig. 2

a section of the motor vehicle door and the outer door handle arrangement according to FIG. 1; and

Fig. 3

a sectional view of FIG. 2 with the outside door handle released.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a motor vehicle 1, the at least has a motor vehicle door 3 provided with an outer door handle arrangement 2.

Fig. 2 shows the in a schematic, substantially horizontal section Outside door handle assembly 2 and portions of the motor vehicle door 3. The outside door handle assembly 2 has a door handle holder installed in the motor vehicle door 3 4 and an outside door handle 5.

Fig. 2 shows the outer door handle 5 in the assembled state, i. H. the outside door handle 5 is mechanical from the outside on the motor vehicle door 3 or the door handle holder 4 attached and held by it.

Fig. 3 shows a section corresponding essentially to Fig. 2, but the Outside door handle 5 in the unmounted state.

2 and 3 show that the outer door handle 5 is an electrical connection element 6 and thus electrically connected, electrical components, such as a sensor 7, a switch 8 and the like. These electrical components are on the connector 6 to an associated, not shown Motor vehicle locking system and / or to that schematically indicated in FIG. 1, the motor vehicle door lock assigned to the outer door handle arrangement 2 9 electrically connectable. This is an electrical contact element 10 is provided, which is adapted to the connecting element 6 such that a secure electrical connection in the assembled state of the outer door handle 5, in particular an electrical connector between the connection element 6 and the contact element 10 or the corresponding, in Fig. 2 and 3 indicated connecting lines 11 and 12.

It goes without saying that the number of interconnected lines 11, 12 depends on the particular circumstances, in particular on the requirements for the electrical connection of the outer door handle 5.
In the example shown, the motor vehicle door 3 has an outer door panel 13 which forms a recessed grip 14 in the region of the outer door handle 5 and has at least one through opening 15, in particular two through openings 15 for mechanically attaching the outer door handle 5. The door handle holder 4 is adapted to the shape of the door outer panel 13 and fastened on the inside of the door outer panel 13, that is to say in the motor vehicle door 3. The door handle holder 4 forms the receiving areas 16 and 17 corresponding to the through openings 15 in the outer door panel 13, which serve for mechanical mounting or fastening of the outer door handle 5 in the assembled state, as shown in FIG. 2.

The mechanical attachment of the outer door handle 5 will now be described explained. However, the constructive solution shown here only sets one preferred embodiment.

The outer door handle 5 is essentially elongated and has in one End region 18 an undercut, preferably integrally molded Holding projection 19 on through a through hole 15 can be inserted into the receiving area 16 of the handle holder 4. The Outside door handle 5 is inclined to the outer surface of the outside door panel 13 with its Holding section 19 inserted into the receiving area 16. Subsequently the outer door handle 5 - in terms of its longitudinal extent - in at least one essentially parallel to the outer surface of the door outer panel 13 pivoted. The pivoting causes the holding portion 19 a adapted holding area 20 of the handle holder 4 engages behind in the receiving area 16 and thereby the outside door handle 5 in the receiving area 16 in a form-fitting manner backs up. For this purpose, the holding section 19 is in particular hook-like educated. The holding area 20 forms, for example, a kind of swivel. Holding axis.

When pivoting the outer door handle 5 into the at least essentially parallel position to the outer surface of the outer door panel 13 or the motor vehicle door 3 becomes one at the other end region 21 of the outer door handle 5 arranged, in particular also molded retaining section 22nd through an assigned passage opening 15 into the receiving area 17 the door handle bracket 4 introduced. The holding section 22 is preferably also undercut or hook-shaped. In particular points the holding section 22 has a projecting projection 23, as indicated in FIG. 2, on.

After swiveling the outer door handle 5 into said parallel The outer door handle 5 is positioned relative to the motor vehicle door 3 or to the door handle holder 4 according to arrow 24, here from receiving area 16 to Recording area 17 out, shifted. This one is essentially straightforward Relative movement leads to the fact that the holding section 22, in particular the Approach 23, a holding area 25 of the door handle holder 4 in the receiving area 17 engages behind, so that the outer door handle 5 now on its two End regions 18 and 21 of the holding sections 19 and 22 in a form-fitting manner is held in the door handle bracket 4. This assembly state in which the Outside door handle 5 is mechanically attached to the door handle holder 4 is in Fig. 2 shown.

The outer door handle 5 is in the assembled state against loosening the positive Connection to door handle bracket 4 secured. For example by a not shown locking or the like. Alternatively or additionally a screw 26 is provided for this purpose, as indicated in FIG the outside door handle 5 against a relative movement, which leads to a loosening of the Door handle 5 would lead, secures. The screw preferably connects 26 the outside door handle 5, in particular at the extension 23, through the door handle holder 4 or its receiving area 17 with the motor vehicle door 3. It should be noted that between the outside door handle 5 and the outer door panel 13 is usually a, in particular elastically deformable Seal 27, as indicated in Fig. 2 and 3, is arranged, the damage the surface of the outer door panel 13 through the outer door handle 5 prevents and a play-free storage of the door handle 5 in the assembled Condition is conducive.

An essential aspect of the present invention is that mechanical attachment of the outer door handle 5, in particular as above described occurs simultaneously or forcibly the outside door handle 5 is electrically connected, that is, the connecting element 6 and that Contact element 10 at least electrically, but preferably also mechanically be connected to each other. For this purpose, the connecting element 6 from Outside door handle 5, in particular held by the holding section 22, or even integrally molded on it. In particular, the connection element is 6 formed as a connector or the like.

The corresponding or complementary contact element 10 is at Representation example held by the door handle bracket 4. For example the contact element 10 is a corresponding connector, the clamping of the door handle bracket 4 in a defined position is held. However, the contact element 10 can, if necessary, also in one piece be molded onto the door handle bracket 4.

When mechanically attaching the outer door handle 5 to the motor vehicle door 3 or on the door handle bracket 4 are simultaneously or forcibly the electrical connection between the connection element 6 and the contact element 10. In particular, the two Elements 6, 10 inserted into each other, so that a contact-safe and durable electrical connection is established.

The electrical connection is preferably made at least in the essential linear relative movement of the outer door handle 5 to the door handle holder 4 when attaching the outside door handle 5, especially when Movement according to arrow 24. This is particularly advantageous if one electrical connector between the connector 6 and the Contact element 10 is made.

However, the preferred translatory or rectilinear relative movement the outside door handle 5 to the door handle holder 4 when making the electrical Contact or the electrical connection between the connecting element 6 and contact element 10 also by a rotary relative movement be overlaid or replaced.

As already explained, the connection element 6 and the contact element 10 preferably designed in the manner of connectors. However, can other types of contact can also be implemented. For example, a Type electrical sliding contact between the connecting element 6 and the Contact element 10 be made in the connected state.

Instead of storage on the door handle holder 4, the contact element 10 also from the assigned motor vehicle door lock 9 or another Part of the motor vehicle door 3, such as one schematically indicated in FIG. 1, for example, circuit board-like connector 28 which in particular the motor vehicle door lock 9 and, for example, a schematic indicated servomotor 29, such as a window regulator, is connected, held or educated.

According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the door handle holder 4 and the motor vehicle door lock 9 form an assembly unit. In this case in particular, the contact element 10 can also be of the Motor vehicle door lock 9 or connecting elements of the assembly unit be held or stored.

It is again pointed out that the constructive described above Solution of the mechanical attachment of the outer door handle 5 to the door bracket 4 shows only a preferred embodiment. Alternatively For example, the holding portion 19 with its hook-shaped projection also point in the other direction and the receiving area 16 of the Door handle bracket 4 may be adapted accordingly so that the outer door handle 5 with both holding sections 19 and 22 simultaneously in the receiving areas 16 and 17 insertable and then according to arrow 24 to produce the Form fit is slidable to the door handle 5 on the door handle bracket 4 mechanically attachable. It is essential that at the same time or forcibly with the mechanical attachment of the outside door handle 5 to the Motor vehicle door 3 or on the door handle bracket 4 the electrical connection the outer door handle 5 is made.

In the example shown, the outer door handle 5 is fixed in the assembled state trained, i.e. immobile. Alternatively, the outside door handle 5 can, however also movably mounted or at least partially movable be trained.

In the example shown, the outer door handle 5 has an electrical component a sensor 7 on the proximity of an operator, not shown to the outside door handle 5 and / or a touch and / or Operation of the outer door handle 5 can detect. Accordingly, the Sensor 7, for example, as a proximity sensor, touch sensor, pressure sensor, Pressure switch, actuation switch or the like. Of course Several sensors 7 can also be integrated in the outer door handle 5 or be assigned to it.

Additionally or alternatively, the switch 8, as indicated in FIGS. 2 and 3, be provided. The switch 8 has, for example, an associated one Actuator 30 on by an operator to trigger a desired function can be pressed.

In addition or as an alternative to switch 8, for example, one cannot Lock cylinder shown can be integrated into the outer door handle 5.

According to the preferred and illustrated embodiment, the door handle holder 4 on the one hand and the outside door handle 5 on the other hand at least in essentially formed in one piece. However, this is not mandatory required. Possibly. In particular, the outside door handle 5 can also consist of several parts be designed with elements that can be moved relative to one another.

Especially in the preferred fixed design of the outside door handle 5 in the assembled state is the assigned motor vehicle door lock 9 as So-called electric lock designed, the electric motor opening and is closable. The motor vehicle door lock 9 is opened when the sensor 7 is touched or actuated by - in particular by means of a so-called "passive entry" system with regard to their authorization checked - operator detected and a corresponding signal via the electrical connection of the outside door handle 5, that is to say the connecting element 6 and the contact element 10, to the associated electronics or the motor vehicle door lock 9 outputs. A closing or in particular locking of the motor vehicle door lock 9 can, for example, by actuation of the switch 8 are triggered.

The present invention is also with a tailgate or a trunk lid applicable. Accordingly, the term "motor vehicle door" here to be understood in a broad and comprehensive sense.

Claims (15)

Outside door handle arrangement (2) for a motor vehicle door (3) with a door handle holder (4), which can be fastened in particular in the motor vehicle door (3), and with an outside door handle (5), which can be mechanically attached in particular from the outside to the door handle holder (4) and an electrical connection element (6) for the electrical connection of the outer door handle (4) or an electrical component, such as a sensor (7) or switch (8), the outer door handle (5) to an associated motor vehicle locking system or motor vehicle door lock (9) via a with the Connection element (6) has an electrically connectable contact element (10),
characterized by
that the motor vehicle door (3) or the door handle holder (4) holds the contact element (10) or is designed to hold it, so that during the mechanical attachment of the outside door handle (5) to the door handle holder (4) the connecting element (6) simultaneously and / or can be forcibly connected to the contact element (10). Outside door handle arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting element (6) and the contact element (10) as a connector are trained. Exterior door handle arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the connecting element (6) integrally formed with the outer door handle (5) is. Outside door handle arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the contact element (10) integrally with the door handle holder (10) is formed. Outside door handle arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the outer door handle (5) during mechanical attachment on the door handle holder (4) movable relative to the door handle holder (4) so that the connecting element (6) and the contact element (10) are electrically and in particular mechanically connectable. Outside door handle arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that which the electrical and possibly mechanical connection of the connecting element (6) and the contact element (10) causing relative movement of the outer door handle (5) to the door handle holder (4) at least essentially in a straight line, in particular essentially parallel to the longitudinal extent of the outer door handle (5) runs. Outside door handle arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the outside door handle (5) on the door handle holder (4) attached and electrically connected assembly state latching can be secured. Outside door handle arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the outside door handle (5) on the door handle holder (4) attached and electrically connected installation state by means of a screw (26) can be secured and in particular by means of this with the motor vehicle door (3) and / or the door handle holder (4) can be connected. Outside door handle arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the outside door handle (5) on the door handle holder (4) attached and electrically connected installation state is fixed. Motor vehicle door (3) with a motor vehicle door lock (9) and an associated outer door handle arrangement (2), which has a door handle holder (4) fastened to the motor vehicle door (3) and an outer door handle (5), which, in particular, mechanically from the outside on the door handle holder (4) can be attached and an electrical connection element (6) for electrical connection of the outside door handle (4) or an electrical component, such as a sensor (7) or switch (8), the outside door handle (5) to the motor vehicle door lock (9) via a with the Connection element (6) has an electrically connectable contact element (10),
characterized by
that the motor vehicle door (3), the door handle holder (4) or the motor vehicle door lock (9) holds the contact element (10) or is designed to hold it, so that when the outer door handle (5) is mechanically attached to the door handle holder (4) Connection element (6) is simultaneously and / or forcibly connectable to the contact element (10). Motor vehicle door according to claim 10, characterized in that the Door handle bracket (4) and the motor vehicle door lock (9) one with the other form connected assembly unit. Motor vehicle door according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the contact element (10) is part of a motor vehicle door (3) and / or connected to the motor vehicle door lock (9), circuit board-like Connection device (28) is or is held by it. Motor vehicle door according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the door handle outer arrangement (2) according to one of claims 1 to 9 is formed. Method for mounting an outer door handle on a motor vehicle door, the outer door handle being mechanically attached to the motor vehicle door or a door handle holder connected to the motor vehicle door and being electrically connected,
characterized by
that the outside door handle is mechanically moved relative to the motor vehicle door or the door handle holder into the desired mounting position in such a way that the outside door handle is simultaneously and / or forcibly connected. A method according to claim 14, characterized in that the mechanical Attaching the outer door handle at the same time an electrical Plug connection to the outside door handle is established.

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