EP2921620A1 - Door handle assembly for a motor vehicle and method of assembling such a door handle assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

In a door handle assembly (3) with a handle support (7), a handle (4) and a coupling device (6), wherein the handle (4) with its first handle end (11) is pivotally mounted on the handle support (7) and with their second handle end (12) with the pivotally mounted on the handle support (7) coupling device (6) is coupled, a solution is to be created that provides a door handle assembly in a structurally simple manner, in which the handle easy, fast and convenient to mount the handle support is. This is achieved in that the door handle assembly (3) has a mounting element (19) attached to the coupling device (6) and pivotable with the coupling device (6), which is convertible between a mounting state and an operating state, wherein in the assembled state the mounting element (FIG. 19) is held by the handle carrier (7) in a coupling device (6) in a mounting pivoting position arresting mounting position, and wherein the mounting element (19) when changing from the mounting state to the operating state of the handle support (7) releasing and the locking of the coupling device ( 6) in the mounting swivel position canceling and the second handle end (12) of the handle (4) releasably fastened.

Description

The invention is directed to a door handle assembly for a motor vehicle having a handle support, a handle for opening a door or flap of the motor vehicle and a mechanical coupling device, wherein the handle is pivotally mounted with its first end of the handle on the handle support and with its second handle end the mechanical coupling device, which is pivotally mounted on the handle support and by the actuation of the handle is transferable to a vehicle-side locking arrangement can be coupled. Likewise, the invention relates to a method for assembling a door handle assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising a handle support, a handle for opening a door or flap of the motor vehicle and a mechanical coupling device, wherein the handle is pivotally mounted with its first end of the handle on the handle support and with their second end of the handle with the mechanical coupling device, which is pivotally mounted on the handle support and by the operation of the handle on a vehicle-mounted locking arrangement can be coupled, coupled, for mounting the handle support inside the door or flap is attached and then the two handle ends of the handle be passed through the outside by respective recesses in the door or flap for attachment to the handle support.

Such door handle assemblies for a motor vehicle may be embodied as an internal or external handle, with the present invention primarily related to a door handle assembly for an exterior handle. Such door handle assemblies have a variety of different constructions and embodiments. The execution of a door handle according to the invention relates to such embodiments in which the handle support on the one hand and the handle on the other hand of opposite sides to the door of the motor vehicle are fastened together. The handle support is in this case on the back of the door, ie inside the motor vehicle, attached, while the handle from the outside of the door, that is outside of the motor vehicle, is mounted. After assembly, the two grip ends of the handle pass through respective recesses in the door of the motor vehicle.

A door handle assembly of the type described is, for example, from DE 10 2009 053 553 A1 from which also the method for mounting such a door handle assembly according to the type described above results. The handle and the handle support must be assembled together, wherein the coupling device is pre-assembled with its designed as a spring element return element on the handle support. The handle carrier is mounted in the interior of the door during the manufacture of the door and then the handle is to be mounted. Since the mechanical coupling device is biased by the spring element, it is in a basic position, from which it must first be pivoted out against the force of the spring element, so that the corresponding handle end of the handle can be brought into engagement with the coupling device. This process is manual, time consuming and cumbersome.

There are also door handle assemblies of other types in which the handle is first preassembled with the handle support to a complete unit. The assembly is retrofitted after pre-assembly in a section of the door of the motor vehicle, for which purpose it is passed through a Einrenkbewegung from the outside of the door in the cutout of the door. On the handle support are locking elements, which are in an inoperative position and reach the back of the door, while edge zones of the handle support are supported on the outside of the door. Then the locking elements are transferred to their operative position, where they engage behind the back of the door, thus securing the unit to the door.

There are also door handle assemblies in which the reversal of the locking elements from their inoperative to their operative position by a first actuation of the handle on the imported assembly takes place. In the DE 44 43 117 A1 the locking elements consist of a slider which is longitudinally guided on the back of the handle carrier. The handle mounted on the handle has a cam which abuts against the slide during actuation of the handle and transfers it to its operative position. In the EP 0 724 052 B1 respectively. DE 696 03 756 T2 the locking elements consist of a wedge, which is pushed by a cam on the handle during its actuation under the bars of a T-shaped holding element, which is arranged in the edge region of the handle carrier. In this case, in addition to the cutout in the door also slots in the door are required to thread the T-beam during assembly of the unit. Because of the already completely preassembled unit, it is not important even with these outside door handles on a connection of the handle on the handle support during installation on the door.

In a door handle assembly according to the type described above - as already noted above - first the handle support at the back of the door (inside) attached and only then the handle from the outside of the door (outside) mounted. In this case, a first handle end of the handle is pivotally mounted on the handle carrier and a second handle end of the handle on the mechanical coupling device, which is already pivotally mounted on the attached handle carrier, releasably fixed. In order to facilitate this fixation of the handle end on the coupling device, it is important to convert the lever-like coupling device into a mounting swivel position, by means of which the section of the coupling device to be coupled to the handle end of the handle is arranged near a recess in the door. The Montageausschwenkposition is to be maintained until the fixation of the handle end of the handle is completed. For this purpose locking aids have been required so far, The laboriously brought into their locking position and then had to be solved again from this.

The invention has for its object to provide a solution that provides a door handle assembly in a structurally simple manner, which is inexpensive to manufacture and in which the handle is easy, quick and easy to mount on the handle support.

In a door handle assembly of the type described, the object is achieved in that the door handle assembly has a device attached to the coupling device and pivotable with the coupling mounting member which is formed convertible between a mounting state and an operating state, wherein in the assembled state, the mounting member of the handle carrier in a mounting position which locks the coupling device in a mounting swing-out position, and wherein the mounting element is releasing from the handle carrier when changing from the mounting state to the operating state and the lock of the coupling device is releasably releasable in the mounting swing-out position and the second handle end of the handle is detachably fastened.

Likewise, the object is achieved by a method of the type described above in that a mounting member is connected to the rotatably mounted on the handle support mechanical coupling device, wherein the mounting member is brought into an assembled state, in which the mounting member is held by the handle support in a mounting position and in which the mounting member locks the mechanical coupling device in a mounting pivot position, wherein when changing from the mounting state to the operating state, the second handle end of the handle is releasably secured to the mounting member, whereby the locking of the coupling device is released and the mounting member is released from the handle support.

Advantageous and expedient refinements and developments of the invention will become apparent from the respective dependent claims.

The invention provides a door handle assembly of a motor vehicle is available, which is characterized by a functional design and has a simple and inexpensive construction. In the door handle assembly according to the invention, a mounting member is used, which is attached to the mechanical coupling device and is coupled thereto, so that a pivoting of the coupling device causes a simultaneous pivoting of the mounting member by the same amount. As long as the second handle end of the handle is not yet attached to the handle support, according to the invention, the mounting member holds the coupling device in the mounting swivel position, which is in the swiveling out of the coupling device during normal operation of the handle during operation of the assembled door handle assembly. This Montageausschwenkposition is safe and maintained until the attachment of the second handle end of the handle has been made on the mounting element. Because according to the invention, the mounting element is held only in the assembled state on the handle support. When changing from the mounting state to the operating state, the mounting element is released and is no longer held on the handle support, which in addition, the locking of the coupling element is released in the Montageschwenkposition. At the same time, the change to the operating state causes the second handle end of the handle to be fastened to the mounting element, so that the handle is motion-coupled to the mounting element. In the operating state, an actuation of the handle for opening a door or flap of the motor vehicle causes a swiveling of the coupled to the handle mounting member, wherein a pivoting of the mounting member simultaneously causes such a pivoting of the coupling device. Preferably, only one work activity is required for the change from the mounting state to the operating state, because according to the invention the fastening of the second handle end of the handle on the mounting element causes a lifting of the locking

Coupling device and release of the mounting element from the handle support. This is comparable with the flipping of a

Switch, which can be changed between two different states by a single work activity. The associated saving of time for attaching the handle to the handle support is obvious if the fixation of the mounting member is released from the handle support at the same time by fixing the second end of the handle. For the purposes of the invention, an assembly state is to be understood as a state in which at least the second handle end of the handle is not yet attached to the handle carrier. In contrast, the second end of the handle is attached to the handle support in an operating state and the door handle assembly is generally ready for use, that is, the assembly or the assembly of the door handle assembly is completed. In the reverse order can be carried out with the help of the door handle assembly according to the invention also a safe disassembly by the coupling device is held on the mounting member in a defined position.

The invention provides in an embodiment of the door handle assembly, that the mounting element is releasably held in the assembled state via a positive connection to the handle carrier. Here are numerous possibilities for the realization of such a positive connection. For example, the positive connection can be designed as a screw or as an adjusting screw, which ensures that the mounting element is held on the handle support and can not be pivoted with the coupling device, but is motion-blocked with respect to the handle support. Of course, in the assembled state, the mounting element can alternatively also be held releasably by means of a non-positive connection to the handle carrier.

Further, it is advantageous in another embodiment of the invention, when the mounting member is releasably secured in the operating state via a non-positive connection to the second end of the handle handle. For example, clamping means may be provided which clamp the second end of the handle on the mounting element and thus realize a movement coupling of handle on mounting element to the coupling device, so that on the mounting element actuation of the handle for opening a door of the motor vehicle is transmitted to the coupling device. As an alternative to a frictional connection but also a positive connection is conceivable, such as a screw to attach the second end of the handle to the mounting element.

To reduce the installation time, the invention provides in a further embodiment, that the mounting element comprises a coupling element attached to the joint element and a screw formed by a nut and held by the joint element screw assembly which in the assembled state with the handle support and the coupling device, the mounting element on the Holding carrier cooperates holding and fixed in the operating state, the second end of the handle handle. The joint element and the bolt assembly act together as a switch when changing from the mounting state to the operating state, so that a single work operation causes the change.

A structurally particularly effective way of forming the mounting element is that the screw is passed into a through hole formed in the joint member, the threaded portion of the screw is disposed within the joint member and the nut is movable in a receiving space of the joint member along the threaded portion of the screw.

The held by the joint element screw set may act like a screw when according to another embodiment of the invention in the assembled state, the distance between the screw head of the screw and the nut engaged with the threaded portion is maximum, so that the mother facing away from the screw head Longitudinal end of the threaded portion of the screw is arranged.

The position of the acting in the manner of a screw set screw depends on the state of the mounting member, the invention provides in a further embodiment that in the operating condition, the distance between the screw head of the screw and the nut engaged with the threaded portion is minimal, so that the nut a at the screw head facing the longitudinal end of the threaded portion of Assigns screw arranged position and the second grip end of the handle between it and a clamping element formed on the mounting member clamps.

In order to realize the desired locking of the mechanical coupling device in the assembled state, the mounting element must also be kept fixed because the coupling device and the mounting element are motion-coupled. For this reason, the invention provides in a further embodiment that, in the assembled state, the screw assembly held by the joint element is fixed between a retaining collar arranged on the grip carrier and a movement limiting element formed on the coupling device. When acting in the manner of a screw screw assembly in the assembled state, the distance between the screw head of the screw and the nut engaged with the threaded portion maximum so that the Schraubengarnitur extends between the Feststellkragen and the movement limiting element and is clamped therebetween, whereby the joint element and so that ultimately the mounting element is held on the handle support in the mounting position.

A structurally particularly favorable possibility to fix the mounting element in the assembled state in the mounting position, is that in the assembled state, the screw head of the screw in its radial direction is held motion blocking within the locking collar and the mother is supported on the formed on the mechanical coupling device movement limiting element ,

With regard to the locking collar, there are various possibilities as to how this can be realized in a structurally flexible or cost-effective manner. For this purpose, the invention provides in a further embodiment that the Feststellkragen is formed on a support member which is fixed by means of latching connections on the handle support removable or which is formed integrally with the handle support. In one-piece design of the handle support together with the support member in Injection molding can be produced inexpensively. On the other hand, the formation of the locking collar on a separate support member allows a cost exchange, should the Feststellkragen be damaged. For damage would not have the complete handle support but only the support member to be replaced with the Feststellkragen, which is quickly and easily possible via the locking connections.

In an embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the carrier component in an imaginary extension of the locking collar has a screw head directed to the mounting hopper for introducing and aligning a tool for handling the mounting member. The necessary for the change between the mounting state and the operating state tool, such as a screwdriver, this can be used in a simple manner, without the tool would need to be targeted brought into position by special skill.

For the motion-coupled connection between the mechanical coupling device and mounting element, it is sufficient if the movement coupling is effective only when the handle or the mounting member is swung in the direction of actuation of the handle, because the coupling device is spring-biased in the basic position, ie the coupling device passes with the help of a Spring element in its home position or starting position after actuation of the handle back, while at the same time due to the motion coupling returns the handle in its unactuated and unde fluted home position. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the mounting element is mounted on the coupling device via a positive-locking actuating connection, wherein the positive-locking actuating connection is formed by at least one actuating projection formed on the joint element and at least one actuating surface formed on the mechanical coupling device, wherein the actuating surface is in the path of movement of the Actuating approach is arranged and a swiveling out of the actuating lug a rotational movement of the mechanical coupling device against the force of the coupling device urging into its home position causes mechanical return element. As can be seen, the positive-locking actuating connection is a one-sided positive connection, since the connection acts only in the direction of the swiveling out movement of the handle.

Finally, in an embodiment of the inventive method, the invention provides that the mounting element comprises a joint element attached to the coupling device and a screw set formed by a screw and a nut, wherein the releasable fixing of the mounting element both on the handle support and on the second handle end of the handle is carried out by means of the screw assembly, wherein the mother is arranged for the mounting state at the screw head remote from the longitudinal end of the threaded portion of the screw and for the operating state, the nut is moved in the direction of the screw head, so that the second handle end of the handle between the nut and an am Joint element formed clamping surface is clamped.

It is understood that the features to be explained above and below can be used not only in the particular combination given, but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the present invention. The scope of the invention is defined only by the claims.

• Figur 1 eine Seitenansicht eines Kraftfahrzeugs mit mehreren erfindungsgemäßen Türgriffanordnungen,
• Figur 2 eine Perspektivansicht auf eine Tür, an der innenseitig ein Griffträger und außenseitig eine Handhabe zur Ausbildung einer erfindungsgemäßen Türgriffanordnung angeordnet sind,
• Figur 3 eine perspektivische Ansicht auf einen Griffträger der erfindungsgemäßen Türgriffanordnung,
• Figur 4 eine perspektivische Einzelteildarstellung der erfindungsgemäßen Türgriffanordnung,
• Figur 5 ein Montageelement der Türgriffanordnung in perspektivischer Ansicht,
• Figur 6 das Montageelement aus Figur 5 in einem Montagezustand,
• Figur 7 das Montageelement aus Figur 5 in einem Betriebszustand,
• Figur 8 das Montageelement und eine mechanische Kopplungsvorrichtung vor ihrem Zusammensetzen in perspektivischer Ansicht,
• Figur 9 das an der Kopplungsvorrichtung angebrachte Montageelement in perspektivischer Ansicht,
• Figur 10 eine perspektivische seitliche Schnittansicht der Türgriffanordnung im Montagezustand des Montageelements,
• Figur 11 eine Schnittansicht von oben auf die Türgriffanordnung im Montagezustand des Montageelements,
• Figur 12 eine perspektivische seitliche Schnittansicht der Türgriffanordnung im Betriebszustand des Montageelements,
• Figur 13 eine Schnittansicht von oben auf die Türgriffanordnung im Betriebszustand des Montageelements und
• Figur 14 eine perspektivische Ansicht auf die am Griffträger angebrachte Montagevorrichtung im Betriebszustand.

Further details, features and advantages of the subject matter of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawing, in which by way of example a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. In the drawing shows:

• FIG. 1 a side view of a motor vehicle with a plurality of door handle assemblies according to the invention,
• FIG. 2 a perspective view of a door on the inside of a handle carrier and on the outside a handle for forming a door handle assembly according to the invention are arranged,
• FIG. 3 a perspective view of a handle support of the door handle assembly according to the invention,
• FIG. 4 a perspective detail view of the door handle assembly according to the invention,
• FIG. 5 a mounting element of the door handle assembly in perspective view,
• FIG. 6 the mounting element FIG. 5 in an assembled state,
• FIG. 7 the mounting element FIG. 5 in an operating state,
• FIG. 8 the mounting element and a mechanical coupling device before their assembly in perspective view,
• FIG. 9 the mounted on the coupling device mounting element in perspective view,
• FIG. 10 a perspective sectional side view of the door handle assembly in the assembled state of the mounting member,
• FIG. 11 a sectional view from above of the door handle assembly in the assembled state of the mounting member,
• FIG. 12 a perspective sectional side view of the door handle assembly in the operating state of the mounting member,
• FIG. 13 a sectional view from above of the door handle assembly in the operating state of the mounting member and
• FIG. 14 a perspective view of the mounted on the handle support mounting device in the operating state.

In FIG. 1 is a vehicle or motor vehicle 1 in the form of a car exemplified, which in the example of four doors 2 (two of which are from FIG. 1 apparent), which can be opened via a door handle assembly 3 and in particular by means of a door handle or a handle 4. The doors 2 are tightly closed via respective closing arrangements 5 and can be opened from the outside only via a respective movement of the handle 4. This movement on the handle 4 may consist of a pulling and / or folding movement, wherein the corresponding movement of the handle 4 mechanically at least via a coupling device 6 (see for example FIG. 3 or 4 ) is transferred to the corresponding closing arrangement 5. By the movement of the handle 4 can be then open the corresponding locking assembly 5 and thus the associated door 2.

In the FIGS. 2 to 9 is shown in different views, the door handle assembly 3 according to the invention in more detail. The door handle assembly 3 has a frame-like handle support 7, wherein for reasons of clarity in FIG. 3 on a representation of the handle 4 is omitted. The handle support 7 is known to attach the handle 4 and is secured by means not shown screw on the inside of the door 2 (inside), wherein the handle 4 on the outside of the door 2 (outside) is arranged. In this case, the grip carrier 7 is formed for reasons of material saving predominantly of a frame structure which has various recording and storage areas to accommodate, among other things, the handle 4, on the handle support 7 for opening a corresponding door 2 of the motor vehicle 1 by a User is movably and / or pivotally mounted on the handle support 7.

How out FIG. 2 it can be seen, the door 2 has an outside recessed grip 8 with two recesses 9 and 10, through which the bow-shaped handle 4 protrudes with its first handle end 11 and its second handle end 12 in the assembled state of the door handle assembly 3. The first handle end 11 of the handle 4 is thus inserted through the first recess 9 and pivotally mounted on a bearing element 13 of the handle support 7. The end-side pivot bearing of the handle 4 allows pivoting of the handle 4 about a vertical axis. After mounting the door handle device 3, the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 extends through the second recess 10 formed in the door 2 and interacts with the coupling device 6 for actuating the closing arrangement 5.

By the mechanical coupling device 6, which is rotatably mounted on the handle support 7, a movement of the handle 4 is transferable to the corresponding vehicle-side locking assembly 5, thereby opening the corresponding door 2. The coupling device 6 is in the selected embodiment against the force of a designed as a spring element mechanical return element 14 from a basic position with non-actuated handle 4 in a Ausschwenkposition in which the handle 4 is actuated, pivotally, wherein the spring element or return element 14, the coupling device 6 from the Ausschwenkposition urges back to its basic position. The coupling device 6 is by Drehachselementen 15, 16 in corresponding bearings 17, 18 of the handle support 7 (see, for example FIG. 4 ) rotatably mounted on the handle support 7, wherein the spring element or restoring element 14 is held by the Drehachselementen 15, 16 and is supported on the coupling device 6 and the handle support 7, to swing the counteracting the Ausschwenkbewegung force and the desired return to the basic position cause.

The handle 4 is coupled with its second end of the handle 12 with the pivotally mounted on the handle support 7 coupling device 6 coupled. More specifically, the Ausschwenkbewegung the handle 4 is coupled in its operation for opening the door 2 of the motor vehicle 1 with the closing assembly 5. For this movement coupling, the door handle assembly 3 in addition to the handle support 7, the rotatably mounted on the handle support 7 coupling device 6 and pivotally mounted with its first handle end 11 on the handle support 7 4 a mounting member 19. The mounting element 19, which in detail for example in FIG. 4 comprises a hinge element 20 and a screw set 21, which is formed by a screw 22 and a nut 23. The screw 22 in turn has a screw head 24, which is formed substantially cylindrical with a hexagon socket and a peripheral collar, and a threaded portion 25 which is engageable with the nut 23 in engagement. The screw set 21 formed by the screw 22 and the nut 23 is held by the hinge element 20.

The FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 show details of the mounting member 19 formed by the bolt assembly 21 and the bolt assembly 21 holding the joint member 20 is. To assemble the mounting member 19, the shank of the screw 22 is formed in a through hole 26 formed in the joint member 20 (see FIG FIG. 4 ) is guided so that the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22 is disposed within the hinge member 20, whereas the screw head 24 is disposed outside of the hinge member 20, as shown for example in the sectional views of FIGS. 6 and 7 can be seen. The nut 23, which is formed as a square nut, is inserted from the opposite side of the through-hole of the hinge member 20 in the joint member 20 and brought into engagement with the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22. In this way, the nut 23 is movably arranged in a quadrangular receiving space 27 of the joint member 20 along the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22 and held non-rotatably, as the FIGS. 6 and 7 demonstrate. In particular, in this way the screw set 21 is held aligned by the hinge element 20. The mounting member 19 is between a mounting state, which is determined by the position of the screw 21 in FIG. 6 is characterized and an operating condition, which by the position of the screw 21 in FIG. 7 is characterized, formed convertible. The characteristic positions of the screw set 21 will be discussed in detail below.

The mounted in its assembled state and assembled as described above mounting member 19 with the screw set 21 held thereon is then mounted for mounting the door handle assembly 3 to the rotatably mounted on the handle support 7 coupling device 6, wherein the handle support 7 is still on the inside to attach to the door 2 or already attached there. In this case, the mounting member 19 is attached via a rotary plug connection 28 and a form-locking actuating connection 29 to the coupling device 6, such as from the FIGS. 8 and 9 is apparent.

About the rotary connector 28, the hinge member 20 is rotatably mounted on the coupling device 6. To this Purpose, the coupling device 6 pin members 30 and 31 which extend parallel to the Drehachselementen 15, 16 (see, for example FIG. 4 or 8th ). On the pin members 30, 31 of the coupling device 6, the hinge member 20 is attached, wherein the pin members 30, 31 are arranged in bearing recesses 32 and 33 of the hinge member 20 so that the hinge member 20 about the pin members 30, 31 is rotatable. The rotary connector 28 is thus formed by the pin members 30, 31 of the coupling device 6 and the bearing recesses 32, 33 of the hinge member 20.

With the aid of the form-locking actuating connection 29 and the rotary plug-in connection 28 previously produced, the joint element 20 is coupled in a coupled manner to the coupling device 6 at least in the swiveling-out direction of the handle 4 and consequently counter to the force of the mechanical return element 14 which urges the coupling device 6 into its basic position. In this case, the form-locking actuating connection 28 (see FIG. 9 ) formed on the hinge element 20 and projecting laterally thereof actuating lugs 34, 35 and formed on the mechanical coupling device 6 actuating surfaces 36, 37. The movement coupling takes place in that the actuating surfaces 36, 37 are arranged in the path of movement of the actuating lugs 34, 35. Therefore causes a swiveling out of the joint member 20 with the molded thereon actuation lugs 34, 35 against rotation of the mechanical coupling device 6 against the force of the coupling device 6 urging into its home position 14. Because when swinging the hinge member 20 about the pin members 30, 31 reach the Actuation lugs 34, 35 in abutment with the actuating surfaces 36, 37 and thus pivoted by depressing the actuating surfaces 36, 37, the coupling device 6 about the Drehachselemente 15, 16. In the manner described above, the mounting member 19 is attached to the coupling device 6 and with the coupling device 6 swiveling. It is in the form-locking actuating connection 28 to a quasi one-sided fit. In the assembled state causes the determination of the mounting member 19, that the actuating lugs 34, 35 press on the actuating surfaces 36, 37 and thereby the coupling device 6 is swung out. If the mounting member 19 is not fixed or fixed to the handle support 7, the force of the mechanical return element 14 acts and causes a turning back of the coupling device 6 in its basic position. When turning back the actuating surfaces 36, 37 press against the actuating lugs 34, 35 and thus move the mounting member 19 also in a normal position. As an alternative to the unilateral positive connection, a rotationally fixed connection between the coupling device 6 and the mounting element 19 may also be provided, with the mounting element 19 and coupling device 6 pivoting together both in the direction of the arrow 38 and in an opposite direction.

The mounting member 19 is used according to the invention, the purpose of facilitating the attachment of the handle 4 on the handle support 7 in an embodiment of a door handle assembly 3, in which the handle support 7 is fastened on the inside of the door 2 and the handle 4 externally fixed to the handle support 7 becomes. For attachment of the handle on the handle support it was - as already stated - required in known door handle assemblies, auszuschwenken the coupling device and if possible to lock in this pivoted position, so that the handle could be connected to the coupling device. This type of assembly was cumbersome, because the coupling device had to be laboriously held in a swung-out position. To facilitate assembly, the mounting element 19, via which the handle 4 is connected to the coupling device 6, now serves. For mounting the handle 4, the mounting member 19 is swung together with the coupling device 6, wherein the mounting member 19 assumes a mounting state, as shown in the FIGS. 10 and 11 is shown in various sectional views.

In the assembled state, the mounting element 19 of the handle support 7 in a coupling device 6 in a Mounting swivel position arresting mounting position held. The coupling device 6 designed in the manner of a reversing lever is 5 ° away from its basic position in the swiveling out direction (see arrow 38 in FIG FIG. 10 ) is rotated or pivoted about the Drehachselemente 15, 16. The swing-out direction (arrow 38 in FIG. 10 ) corresponds to the pivoting movement, which perform the handle 4 and via the mounting member 19 with the handle 4 motion-coupled coupling device 6 upon actuation of the handle 4 for opening the door 2. For locking the coupling device 6 in the mounting position and thus fixing the mounting member 19 in a mounting swivel position on the handle support 7, a positive connection 39 is provided. The positive connection 39 holds in the assembled state, the mounting member 19 releasably on the handle support 7, as shown in the FIGS. 10 and 11 is shown. For this purpose, the mounting member 19 takes the in FIG. 6 shown mounting state in which the distance between the screw head 24 of the screw 22 and the threaded portion 25 is in engagement nut 23 is maximum. Consequently, the nut 23 is arranged on the screw head 24 facing away from the longitudinal end of the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22. The mounting state of the mounting member 19 is then established when the mounting member 19 is attached to the coupling device 6. To prepare the mounting state, the screw is rotated by means of a tool, so that the screw set 21 may have the maximum distance between the screw head 24 and nut 23, whereby the held by the joint member 20 screw set 21 between a arranged on the handle carrier 7 Feststellkragen 40 and one on the coupling device 6 trained movement limiting element 41 is fixed. In the FIGS. 10 and 11 It can be clearly seen that the screw head 24 is received by the locking collar 40 and the collar of the screw head 24 rests against the locking collar 40. At the screw head 24 facing away from the longitudinal side of the screw 21 is the nut 23 with the outer end of the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22 in engagement. However, the nut 23 abuts on the movement limiting element 41 which is rod-shaped and spaced and extends parallel to the Drehachselementen 15, 16 between two lever arms of the coupling device 6, so that a total of a swiveling out of the joint member 20 and the movement-coupled coupling device. 6 in Ausschwenkrichtung 42 (see FIG. 10 ) of the handle 4 and a rotation about the Drehachselemente 15, 16 is not possible, but the mounting member 20 is fixed together with the coupling device 6 on the Feststellkragen 40 of the handle support 7. The locking collar 40 is formed in the embodiment shown in the figures on a support member 43 which is fixed by means of latching connection elements 44 which are formed on the support member 43 and the handle support 7 complementary to each other on the handle support 7 removable. In the simplest case, the latching connection elements 44 are as in FIG FIG. 4 indicated clip-connecting means which interlock by corresponding pressure. Alternatively, the carrier component 43 can of course also be produced in one piece with the handle carrier 7 in a cost-effective injection molding process and be formed therewith.

In the assembled state, consequently, the screw set 21 cooperates with the coupling device 6 such that the grip carrier 7 holds the mounting element 19 over its locking collar 40. In this case, in the assembled state of the mounting element 19, the screw head 24 of the screw 22 is immobilized within the locking collar 40 in its radial direction, whereas the nut 23 is supported on the movement limiting element 41 formed on the mechanical coupling device 6. The movement limiting element 41 is designed as a rod-shaped element between two lever arms 50, 51 of the coupling device 6, which extend transversely to the axis of rotation of the coupling device 6. Between the two lever arms 50, 51, the pin members 30, 31 are arranged, wherein the actuating surfaces 36, 37 sections of Lever arms 50, 51 are. The locked in Montageschwenkposition coupling device 6 and held in the mounting position mounting member 19 are now conveniently arranged for the attachment of the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 in a swung-out position, so that the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 can be easily mounted. In the assembled state, therefore, the screw 22 locks the rotation of the mounting member 19 and the spring-loaded coupling device 6 and blocks the nut 23, whereas the nut 23 also blocks the rotation of the mounting member 19 by abutting against the movement limiting member 41.

To mount the second end of the handle 12 of the handle 4, the mounting member 19 must change from the mounting state in the operating state, in the FIGS. 12, 13 and 14 is shown. Furthermore, at the latest now the handle 4 must be inserted with its second end of the handle 12 in the joint member 20 of the mounting member 19, as in the embodiment, however, already in the in the FIGS. 10 and 11 shown assembly state was the case. To change to the operating state, the fitter uses a tool with which he turns the screw 22 so that the screw head 24 and nut 23 to move toward each other. To facilitate work for the fitter, the support member 43 in an imaginary extension of the Feststellkragens 40 directed to the screw head 24 mounting hopper 45 (see, for example FIG. 3 ) for introducing and aligning the tool for handling the mounting member 19 and the screw 22. When handling the screw 22, the nut 23 abuts quickly on the second end of the handle 12 of the handle 4. The second handle end 12 is formed with two connecting webs 46, which are inserted into corresponding passage openings 47 in the sliding member 20, wherein between the two connecting webs 46, the screw 22 extends. Consequently, the screw head 24 shifts in further handling of the screw 22 in the direction of the sliding member 20 until the screw head 24 abuts the outside of the sliding member 20. Upon further handling of the screw 22 then the connecting webs 46 of the second Handle 12 of the handle 4 between the nut 23 and formed on a sliding member 20 clamping surface 48 and clamped, as shown for example in FIG. 12 is shown. The displacement of the screw head 24 out of the locking collar 40 in the direction of the sliding element 20 when changing from the mounting state to the operating state causes the locking of the coupling device 6 to be canceled and instead the screw set 21 together with the hinge element 20 the second grip end 12 of the handle 4 fixed, so that after assembly, an operation of the handle 4 is transmitted to open the door 2 via the mounting member 19 to the coupling device 6, wherein the coupling device 6 is known to be coupled to the locking assembly 5. In other words, the mounting member 19 when changing from the mounting state in the operating state of the handle support 7 releasing and the locking of the coupling device 6 in the Montageausschwenkposition lifting and the second end of the handle 12 of the handle 4 releasably fastened. In this case, in the operating state, the clamping connection between the nut 23 and the clamping surface 48 is a frictional connection 49, via which the mounting member 19, the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 releasably attached. In the operating state in which the handle 4 is effectively mounted on the handle support 7 and can be actuated to open the door 4, the distance between the screw head 24 of the screw 22 and the nut 23 engaged with the threaded portion 25 is minimal, so that the nut 23 occupies a position arranged on the screw head 24 facing longitudinal end of the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22, whereby the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 between the nut 23 and the clamping element 48 formed on the mounting element 19 or joint member 20 is clamped.

The method for assembling the door handle assembly 3 described above with reference to the technical features for a motor vehicle 1 initially comprises the steps that are fastened on the inside to the door 2 of the motor vehicle 1 for mounting the handle carrier 7 and then the two handle ends 11 and 12 of the handle 4 on the outside by the respective recesses. 9 and 10 in the door 2 for attachment to the handle support 7 are passed. Then, the mounting member 19 is connected to the rotatably mounted on the handle support 7 coupling device 6, wherein the mounting member 19 is brought into the assembled state. In the assembled state, the mounting member 19 is held by the handle support 7 in the mounting position, wherein in the assembled state, the mounting member 19 locks the coupling device 6 in a mounting pivoting position. In this position, the handle can then be mounted externally on the door 2 by a fitter, for which purpose the mounting element 19 changes from the mounting state to the operating state. First, however, the first handle end 11 of the handle 4 is attached to the bearing element 13 of the handle support 7. When changing from the mounting state to the operating state, the second grip end 12 of the handle 4 is then releasably secured to the mounting member 19, whereby the locking of the coupling device 6 is released and the mounting member 19 is released from the handle support 7. The detachable fixing of the mounting member 19 both on the handle support 7 and on the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 is performed by means of the screw 21, the nut 23 is arranged for the mounting state on the screw head 24 remote from the longitudinal end of the threaded portion 25 of the screw 22 and for the operating state, the nut 23 is moved in the direction of the screw head 24, so that the second grip end 12 of the handle 4 between the nut 23 and the joint element 20 formed on the clamping surface 48 is clamped. Consequently, to change from the mounting state to the operating state, the screw 22 is pressed in the direction of the nut 23 and rotated so that the screw 22 rotates into the nut 23 until the screw 22 strikes against the outside of the joint element 20. In this case, the nut 23 moves in the direction of the second handle end 12 and brings about a clamping. The effective in the mounting state turnstile for the coupling device 6 and the mounting member 19 are dissolved when turning the screw 22 for clamping the second handle end 12 of the handle 4.

In summary, a door handle assembly 3 for a motor vehicle 1 has been described above, in which on the back of the door 2, the handle support 7 is fixed and the handle 4 is mounted from the front of the door 2 on the handle support 7. The handle 4 can be transferred from its rest position on the door 2 by a pulling or folding movement in an operating position with respect to the lock assembly. To attach the handle 4, the two handle ends 11, 12 pass through corresponding recesses 9, 10 in the door 2, wherein the second handle end 12 is connected to a lever-like design and pivotally mounted on the handle support 7 coupling element 6. For mounting the second handle end 12 of the handle 4, the mounting member 19 is reversible between a mounting state and an operating state and formed switchable. The switchable or reversible mounting member 19 is used in its operating state for locking the coupling device 6 in the mounting swivel position, in which the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 can be easily and quickly attached or mounted on the handle support 7. In particular, the second handle end 12 is mounted on the mounting member 19 itself, the mounting member 19 is both in the assembled state and in the operating state with the coupling device 6, at least in Ausschwenkrichtung 42, in which the handle 4 is moved to open the door 2, is coupled in motion. In the mounting position, consequently, the mounting member 19 and the coupling device 6 are locked and held in a swung-out position, wherein the mounting member 19 itself provides the lock. In operation, the held on the joint member 20 screw set 21 of the mounting member 19 is then actuated such that the mounting member 19 releases itself and additionally the coupling device 6 while the second grip end 12 of the handle 4 clamps, so this on the mounting member 19 with the coupling device 6 is motion coupled.

The door handle assembly 3 according to the invention is characterized by the between the mounting state and the operating state switchable mounting member 19, wherein the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 is fixed exclusively in the operating state on the mounting member 19. The mounting member 19 is mounted outside of the pivot point of the coupling device 6 and lever arms 50, 51 of the coupling device 6, wherein when swinging in the direction of actuation, the mounting member 19 moves the coupling device 6 and pivoting back to the basic position, the coupling device 6 moves the mounting member 19 so that independently from the pivoting direction, the coupling device 6 and the mounting member 19 pivot together about the axis of rotation or the Drehachselemente 15, 16. In the assembled state, the mounting member 19 is locked in the mounting position to the handle support 7 such that the coupling device 6 is arranged slightly swung out in the mounting swivel position. A release of the locking of the mounting member 19 when changing from the mounting state to the operating state simultaneously causes a jamming of the second handle end 12 of the handle 4 on the mounting member 19, wherein in particular the manipulation of the screw assembly 21 causes both the lock and the jamming.

Of course, the invention described above is not limited to the described and illustrated embodiment. It will be appreciated that numerous modifications which are obvious to a person skilled in the art according to the intended application can be made to the embodiment shown in the drawing without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, instead of the two actuating lugs and two actuating surfaces shown in the exemplary embodiment, only one actuating lug and one actuating surface or more than two actuating lugs and more than two actuating surfaces can be provided. For the invention includes everything that is contained in the description and / or shown in the drawing, including what, in deviation from the concrete embodiment obvious to the skilled person.

Claims (14)

Door handle assembly (3) for a motor vehicle (1) comprising a handle support (7), a handle (4) for opening a door (2) or flap of the motor vehicle (1) and a mechanical coupling device (6), wherein the handle ( 4) with its first handle end (11) pivotally mounted on the handle support (7) and with its second handle end (12) with the mechanical coupling device (6) which is pivotally mounted on the handle support (7) and by the one actuation of the handle (4) is transferable to a vehicle-side locking arrangement (5), can be coupled,
characterized,
in that the door handle arrangement (3) has a mounting element (19) which is attached to the coupling device (6) and can be pivoted to the coupling device (6) and which is convertible between a mounting state and an operating state,
wherein in the assembled state, the mounting member (19) by the handle support (7) in a coupling device (6) in a mounting pivoting position arresting mounting position is held, and
wherein the mounting member (19) when changing from the mounting state to the operating state of the handle support (7) releasing and the locking of the coupling device (6) in the Montageausschwenkposition lifting and the second handle end (12) of the handle (4) releasably fastened. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mounting element (19) in the assembled state via a positive connection (39) on the handle support (7) is releasably held. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the mounting element (19) in Operating state via a non-positive connection (49) the second handle end (12) of the handle (4) removably attached. Door handle arrangement (3) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mounting element (19) has a joint element (20) attached to the coupling device (6) and one of a screw (22) and a nut (23) and of the joint element ( 20) held in the assembled state with the handle support (7) and the coupling device (6), the mounting element (19) on the handle support (4) and cooperating in the operating state, the second handle end (12) of the handle ( 4) fixed. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 4, characterized in that the screw (22) is guided in a in the joint member (20) formed through opening (26), the threaded portion (25) of the screw (22) within the joint member (20) is and the nut (23) in a receiving space (27) of the joint member (20) along the threaded portion (25) of the screw (22) is movable. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that in the assembled state, the distance (40) between the screw head (24) of the screw (22) and with the threaded portion (25) in engagement nut (23) is maximum, such that the nut (23) is arranged on the longitudinal end of the threaded portion (25) of the screw (22) facing away from the screw head (24). Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 4, 5 or 6, characterized in that in the operating state, the distance between the screw head (24) of the screw (22) and with the threaded portion (25) engages nut (23) is minimal, so that the mother (23) one on the the Screw head (24) facing the longitudinal end of the threaded portion (25) of the screw (22) arranged position and the second grip end (12) of the handle (4) between it and a mounting element (19) formed clamping surface (48) clamped. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 4, 5, 6 or 7, characterized in that in the assembled state, the screw member (21) held by the hinge element (20) between a on the handle support (7) arranged Feststellkragen (40) and one on the coupling device (6 ) formed movement limiting element (41) is fixed. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 8, characterized in that in the assembled state, the screw head (24) of the screw (22) is held in its radial direction movement blocking within the Feststellkragens (40) and the nut (23) on the at the mechanical coupling device (6) formed movement limiting element (41) is supported. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the Feststellkragen (40) on a support member (43) is formed, which is fixed by means of latching connection elements (44) on the handle support (7) removable or integral with the handle support (7 ) is trained. Door handle assembly (3) according to claim 10, characterized in that the carrier component (43) in an imaginary extension of the Feststellkragens (40) facing the screw head (24) mounting hopper (45) for introducing and aligning a tool for handling the mounting member (19) , Door handle assembly (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mounting element (19) is mounted on the coupling device (6) via a form-locking actuating connection (29), the form-locking actuating connection (29) being formed by at least one actuating projection (34, 35) formed on the joint element (20) and at least one on the mechanical coupling device (6) ) formed actuating surface (36, 37), wherein the actuating surface (36, 37) in the path of movement of the actuating lug (34, 35) is arranged and a swiveling out of the actuating lug (34, 35) against a rotational movement of the mechanical coupling device (6) Force of the coupling device (6) in its home position urging mechanical return element (14) causes. Method for mounting a door handle assembly (3) for a motor vehicle (1), comprising a handle support (7), a handle (4) for opening a door (2) or flap of the motor vehicle (1) and a mechanical coupling device (6), wherein the handle (4) with its first handle end (11) is pivotally mounted on the handle support (7) and with its second handle end (12) with the mechanical coupling device (6) which is pivotally mounted on the handle support (7) and by the an actuation of the handle (4) is transferable to a vehicle-side locking arrangement (5), can be coupled,
wherein for mounting the handle support (7) on the inside of the door (1) or flap is fastened and then the two handle ends (11, 12) of the handle (4) on the outside by respective recesses (9, 10) in the door (1) or Flap for attachment to the handle support (7) are passed,
characterized,
in that a mounting element (19) is connected to the mechanical coupling device (6) mounted rotatably on the handle carrier (7), wherein the mounting element (19) is brought into a mounting state in which the mounting element (19) of the handle carrier (7) in a Mounting position is held and in which the mounting element (19), the mechanical Coupling device (6) locked in a mounting swivel position, wherein when changing from the mounting state to the operating state, the second handle end (12) of the handle (4) on the mounting member (19) is releasably attached, whereby the locking of the coupling device (6) is released and the mounting element (19) from the handle support (7) is released. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the mounting element (19) comprises a joint element (20) attached to the coupling device (6) and a screw set (21) formed by a screw (22) and a nut (23), the releasable one Fixing the mounting element (19) both on the handle support (7) and on the second handle end (12) of the handle (4) by means of the screw set (21) is performed, the nut (23) for the mounting state of the screw head ( 24) facing away from the threaded portion (25) of the screw (22) is arranged and for the operating state, the nut (23) in the direction of the screw head (24) is moved, so that the second handle end (12) of the handle (4) between the Nut (23) and a on the hinge element (20) formed clamping surface (48) is clamped.

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