FR3077032A1 - SHAFT CONTROL DEVICE, IN PARTICULAR FOR MOTOR VEHICLE, AND FRAME COMPRISING SUCH A DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a control device, particularly for a motor vehicle, of at least one flap configured to be moved between open and closed positions, said device (1) comprising: a trainer (9) configured to be coupled to said flap and configured to be actuated by an actuator and to be disengaged from the actuator in the event of a failure of the actuator, - a drive shaft (70) configured to be driven by the actuator, and - a transmission element ( 11) mounted movably between an engaged position in which it couples the drive shaft (70) and the drive (9), and a disengaged position in which it disengages the drive (9) from the drive shaft (70). According to the invention, said device (1) comprises at least one elastic return member (23) arranged so as to urge the trainer (9) to move it, when it is disengaged from the drive shaft (70). ), in a predefined position, allowing the opening of said flap. The invention also relates to a corresponding frame.

Description

The invention relates to a shutter control device, in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one shutter and an actuator moving said at least one shutter between a closed position and an open position. The invention also relates to a frame comprising such a device.

The front sides of motor vehicles are generally composed of an air inlet or two air inlets, called upper track and lower track, separated by a bumper beam. Behind this bumper beam is generally placed a motor vehicle heat exchange device, comprising one or more heat exchangers, such as those used for air conditioning the passenger compartment, intended to be traversed by an introduced air flow through the air inlet or air inlets at the front of the vehicle.

At least one flap panel is also generally mounted in the vehicle air inlets. The flaps are for example formed by lamellae pivotally mounted on the panel, for example substantially transversely. The inclination of the flaps can be controlled by an actuator between a closed position, for example vertical, blocking the passage of air and several intermediate positions to an open position, for example horizontal, in which a flow of maximum air can circulate. When the flap panel is closed, the vehicle has a better air penetration coefficient, which reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

According to a known solution, the flaps can be driven by means of a trainer such as a control lever coupled to the actuator.

The piloted flaps are therefore arranged in front of the heat exchange device, and are used to reduce the drag coefficient as well as to improve the performance of the heat exchange device.

However, in the event of an actuator failure, the flaps may find themselves blocked in the closed position, which obstructs the passage of air to the heat exchange device, thereby causing the engine to overheat.

It has been proposed to couple the actuator and the shutter control lever by means of a mobile core forming a transmission element between the

-2 control and Γ actuator. In the event of failure of the actuator, this movable core is moved to a release position so as to dissociate from the actuator. For this purpose, a displacement means such as a solenoid makes it possible to move the mobile core. However, such a system can be cumbersome.

According to another solution, a member made of shape memory material, such as a wire made of shape memory material, capable of changing state, is arranged so as to separate the flaps from the actuator when it changes d 'state. In particular, the wire of shape memory material is arranged so as to urge the transmission element making it possible to transmit the movement of the actuator to the shutter control lever, in the event of failure of the actuator, so that it disengages from the control lever.

The control lever, once detached from the transmission element, is free to rotate. However, the movement of the control lever thus is not released is not controlled so that the flaps can adopt and remain in an open position unlocking the air intake, independently of the actuator.

The object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the drawbacks of the prior art by proposing a compact alternative making it possible to separate the actuator flaps in the event of an actuator failure and to move the control lever to a position d opening of the shutters when it is released.

To this end, the subject of the invention is a control device, in particular for a motor vehicle, of at least one flap configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position, said device comprising:

a drive configured to be coupled to said at least one flap and configured to be driven by an actuator so as to move said at least one flap and to be detached from the actuator in the event of failure of the actuator, a drive shaft configured to be driven by the actuator, and a transmission element mounted mobile between:

• a engaged position in which it couples the drive shaft and the trainer, and • a disengaged position in which it disconnects the trainer from the drive shaft.

According to the invention, said device comprises at least one elastic return member arranged so as to urge the coach to move it, when it is detached from the drive shaft, in a predefined position, in which the coach is configured to maintain said at least one flap in the open position when the driver is coupled to said at least one flap.

The recall device is integrated into the control system. It is not an external element. In addition, this return member is arranged closest to the coach to act directly on the latter, and not for example on the flaps.

In this way, a compact mechanism is guaranteed at the same time, the clutch, disengaging to couple or disengage the actuator trainer, but also the opening of the flaps in the event of failure of the actuator without action of the latter, when the member reminder brings the coach after its separation with the drive shaft intended to be coupled to the actuator, in the predefined position allowing the opening of the flaps.

According to one aspect of the invention, said device comprises said at least one flap configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position.

According to another aspect of the invention, the transmission element is coupled in rotation to the drive shaft in the engaged and disengaged positions. In the engaged position, it is rotatably coupled to the trainer so that it can transmit movement from the drive shaft to the trainer. In the disengaged position, it is decoupled from the coach, so as to separate the coach from the drive shaft.

Said device may also include one or more of the following characteristics, taken separately or in combination:

the transmission element is separate from the coach;

said at least one elastic return member is produced in the form of a return spring;

said at least one elastic return member is a torsion spring;

said at least one elastic return member is fixed on the one hand to the trainer and

-4 on the other hand to a fixed element of said device;

said device comprises a base arranged fixed in said device;

said at least one elastic return member is fixed on the one hand to the trainer and on the other hand to the base;

the base has an internal space for receiving a portion of complementary shape from the trainer;

said at least one elastic return member is arranged between the driver and an internal wall of the base;

the portion of the coach received in the base is generally tubular;

said at least one elastic return member is arranged around the portion of the coach received in the base;

the coach has a holding element at one end of the return spring;

the base has another element for holding the other end of the return spring;

the base has a slot for holding one of the ends of the return spring;

the drive shaft is configured to be driven in rotation about a drive axis by the actuator;

the transmission element is axially movable between the engaged and disengaged positions;

the coach comprises a housing in which the drive shaft and the transmission element are arranged at least partially;

said device comprises at least one member made of shape memory material configured to deform between a first state and a second state, and arranged so as to urge the transmission element to disconnect it from the driver in the event of failure of the 'actuator;

the member made of shape memory material comprises at least one spring;

the member made of shape memory material is configured to urge the transmission element towards the disengaged position in the event of an actuator failure;

-5Γdrive shaft comprises a receiving cavity of said at least one member made of shape memory material;

said device comprises another elastic return member arranged so as to urge the transmission element towards the engaged position, so that the organ made of shape memory material is configured to urge the transmission element towards the disengaged position at against the force exerted by the elastic return member.

The invention also relates to a frame comprising at least one flap configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position and a device for controlling said at least one flap as defined above.

According to one aspect of the invention, said device comprises a base fixed to the frame.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description, given by way of illustrative and nonlimiting example, and of the appended drawings among which:

- Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a frame comprising a shutter control device,

FIG. 2 shows the flap control device and an actuator from the side,

FIG. 3a is an exploded view of a clutch and disengage mechanism of the device of FIG. 2,

FIG. 3b is an assembled view of the mechanism of FIG. 3a,

FIG. 4a is an exploded view of a drive shaft and a body of a transmission element complementary to the mechanism of FIG. 3a,

FIG. 4b shows the elements of FIG. 4a assembled and an elastic return element before assembly,

FIG. 4c shows the elements of FIG. 4b assembled and a member made of shape memory material before assembly,

FIG. 4d shows the elements of FIG. 4c assembled,

- Figure 4e shows the elements of Figure 4d and a cover of the transmission element before assembly,

FIG. 4f shows the elements of FIG. 4e assembled,

- Figure 5a is a partially sectional view showing the mechanism of Figure 2 assembled with the transmission element in a engaged position,

- Figure 5b is another sectional view showing the mechanism of Figure 2 assembled with the transmission element in a engaged position,

- Figure 5c is a partially sectional view showing the mechanism of Figure 2 assembled with the transmission element in a disengaged position,

- Figure 6a shows the elements of Figure 4f before assembly in the coach,

FIG. 6b shows the elements of FIG. 6a assembled,

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a trainer of the mechanism of FIG. 3a,

- Figure 8 is a top view of the trainer of Figure 7,

FIG. 9 shows an organ made of material with shape memory of the mechanism of FIG. 3a,

FIG. 10 shows the mechanism of FIG. 3a assembled on the frame,

FIG. 11 a is an exploded view of a base and of a return member of the mechanism of FIG. 3 a,

FIG. 11b is a top view of the elements of FIG. 11a assembled,

- figure lie shows the elements of figure lia assembled and the trainer before assembly,

FIG. 11d shows before assembly on the one hand the elements of FIG. 11b assembled and on the other hand the trainer receiving the drive shaft and the closing cover,

FIG. 12 is a top view of the assembled base and of the trainer, and

- Figure 13 is a perspective view of the mechanism of Figure 3a.

In these figures, the substantially identical elements have the same references.

The following embodiments are examples. Although the description refers to one or more embodiments, this does not necessarily mean that each reference relates to the same embodiment, or that the characteristics

-7 apply only to one embodiment. Simple features of different embodiments can also be combined or interchanged to provide other embodiments.

The horizontal plane is designated by a coordinate system (X, Y) and the vertical direction by the direction Z, the three directions forming a trihedron (X, Y, Z). These axes may correspond to the designation of the axes in a motor vehicle, that is to say by convention, in a vehicle, the X axis corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the Y axis corresponds to the axis transverse of the vehicle and the Z axis to the vertical axis according to the height of the vehicle.

In the present description, the terms vertical / horizontal or up / down are designated with reference to the arrangement of the elements in the figures, which corresponds to the arrangement of the elements in the mounted state in the motor vehicle.

In known manner, a motor vehicle has one or more air inlets formed at the front of the motor vehicle. The term before is here designated with reference to the direction of travel of the motor vehicle.

Referring to Figure 1, the invention relates to a device 1 for controlling one or more flaps 3, in particular for a motor vehicle. The control device 1 is intended to be arranged at an air inlet of the motor vehicle.

Behind or downstream of the control device 1, is generally placed a heat exchange device (not shown) of the motor vehicle intended to be traversed by an air flow introduced by the air inlet or inlets at the front of the vehicle.

The control device 1 may include at least one flap 3 movable between an open position and a closed position. These are extreme positions, the flap or flaps 3 can take intermediate positions between these two open and closed positions.

To this end, an actuator 7 (partially visible in FIG. 2) is provided for driving the movement or the flaps 3 between the open and closed positions. The actuator 7 may or may not be an integral part of the shutter control device 1. For example, the actuator control 7 can be pneumatic, electric or

- still mechanical.

According to the example illustrated in FIG. 1, when the flaps 3 are in the open position and in the state mounted on the vehicle, the air intake is cleared. When the flaps 3 are in the closed position (not shown), the air intake is obstructed.

The flap (s) 3 is (are) for example mobile (s) in rotation. Advantageously, in the case of a plurality of flaps 3, the flaps 3 can be movable according to the same rotary movement defined around a drive axis or axis of rotation represented by the axis A. The rotation of the flaps 3 can 'Carry out in both directions around the axis of rotation A. The axis of rotation A is in the example illustrated parallel to the transverse axis Y. According to an alternative not shown, it is possible to provide for a displacement of the flap or flaps 3 between the open and closed positions, for example by translation.

Furthermore, the control flaps 3 can be connected by a connecting member 4. The connecting member 4 is configured to move, for example in translation, and by moving it can cause all the flaps to pivot simultaneously. 3. According to the example shown in Figure 1, the connecting member 4 is configured to move in translation along an axis B. The translation axis B is for example parallel to the vertical axis Z. The member link 4 can be driven in both directions, either down or up here along the vertical axis Z.

This control device 1 is, according to the example illustrated, mounted on a frame 5. The frame 5 can correspond to a frame with two longitudinal sides 51 and two lateral sides (not visible in the figures) for a given thickness. The longitudinal sides 51 of the frame 5 here extend along the transverse axis Y and the lateral sides along the vertical axis Z. In the example illustrated, the frame 5 has a generally substantially rectangular shape with two large longitudinal sides 51 and two small side sides. Any other form of the frame 5 can be envisaged, the invention not being limited to the shape of the frame 5.

According to the embodiment described, the control device 1 comprises a drive shaft 70 (FIGS. 3a, 3b), arranged so as to transmit a movement from the actuator 7 to the flaps 3, also referring to FIG. 2 In the event of an anomaly,

For example following a failure of the actuator 7, the control device 1 comprises one or more elements making it possible to separate the flap or flaps 3 from the actuator 7.

In particular, the control device 1 comprises a driver 9 coupled to the flaps 3 and configured to be driven by the actuator 7 via the drive shaft 70 so as to move the flaps 3. The driver 9 is configured to be disconnected from the actuator 7 in the event of failure of the actuator 7.

To this end, the device 1 comprises a transmission element 11 (see FIG. 3a) which can be coupled in rotation or disconnected from the driver 9. The decoupling occurs in the event of failure of the actuator 7, for example under the action of an organ made of shape memory material 8.

The control device 1 further comprises at least one elastic return member 23 arranged so as to urge the coach 9 towards a predefined position which corresponds to an open position of the flaps 3, when the coach 9 is coupled to the flaps 3. When the driver 9 is detached from the actuator 7, that is to say when it is detached from the drive shaft 70, the elastic return member 23 can move the driver 9 in this position predefined. In other words, the trainer 9 is configured to move and maintain the flap or flaps 3 in the open position under the effect of the elastic return member 23 after separation of the trainer 9 and the actuator 7.

As regards the drive shaft 70, it is configured to be driven by the actuator 7. The drive shaft 70 can be driven in a rotational movement around the drive axis A.

This drive shaft 70 may comprise at least one means for rotating the transmission element 11 of the control device 1.

The drive shaft 70, better visible in Figures 4a to 4f, comprises for example a first part 71 configured to be driven by the actuator 7 (not visible in these figures) and a second part 72 configured to cooperate with the transmission element IL

-10The first 71 and second 72 parts extend for example longitudinally along the drive axis A.

The section of the first part 71 may have, without limitation, a general shape of a star.

According to the embodiment described, the second part 72 is configured to be received in the transmission element 11.

The second part 72 is configured to drive the transmission element 11 in rotation. In other words, the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70 comprises the means for rotating the transmission element 11. The second part 72 may have, without limitation, a generally elongated shape, such as a generally oblong shape. This second part 72 also has at least one flat 720. According to the example in FIG. 4a, the second part 72 has at least two opposite flat 720s. In this example of the drive shaft 70 with a second part 72 of elongated shape, such as an oblong shape, the flats 720 are arranged at the long sides of the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70 The second part 72 is configured to guide the movement of the transmission element 11 as will be described later.

In addition, this second part 72 may have on its outer contour, a peripheral groove 721 better visible in FIG. 4a.

The drive shaft 70 further comprises a junction part 73 between the first 71 and second 72 parts of the drive shaft 70. This junction part 73 is shaped to be received in the driver 9, as shown schematically in Figures 5a to 5c. This joining part 73 can serve as a surface for guiding in rotation of the driver 9.

In addition, the drive shaft 70 comprises at least one blocking element 731 in translation or axial blocking of the driver 9.

The translation 9 of the driver 9 can be locked by snap-fastening. To this end, by referring again to FIGS. 4a to 4f, the drive shaft 70 can have a peripheral groove 731 configured to cooperate with at least one complementary blocking element carried by the driver 9. This groove 731

The device is for example at the level of the junction part 73. In this example, this groove 731 is closer to the first part 71 than to the second part 72.

Finally, the drive shaft 70 comprises a cavity 75 (see FIGS. 4a to 4c) for receiving the member made of shape memory material 8. The cavity 75 is formed at the level of the second part 72 of the shaft drive 70 intended to cooperate with the transmission element 11. The member made of shape memory material 8 is therefore received in this second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. The cavity 75 is of complementary shape to the shape of the member made of shape memory material 8. By way of nonlimiting example, the cavity 75 has an outline of general shape substantially in the form of an "eight" or peanut, or even of a nephroid.

The drive shaft 70 may further comprise a peripheral groove 77, as illustrated in the example of FIG. 5b. This peripheral groove 77 can be on the junction portion 73, and is configured to receive a seal 33, as described below. It is in particular a seal 33 intended to be positioned in interface with the driver 9.

Concerning the trainer 9, referring again to FIGS. 2 to 3b, it can be a control lever 9. The trainer 9 means any means or organ making it possible to transmit a movement to one or more flaps 3 To this end, the driver 9 is on the one hand directly or indirectly coupled to at least one flap 3 and is on the other hand configured to be coupled to the actuator 7 via the drive shaft 70. With such an arrangement, the driver 9 can move the flap or flaps 3 under the impulse of the actuator 7.

The coach 9 is for example coupled by form cooperation to at least one flap 3 or to the connecting member 4. With reference to the example of FIG. 2, the coach 9 can be coupled to the flaps 3 by through the connecting member 4. Thus, in operation, the actuator 7 controls the rotation of the driver 9 which causes the displacement of the connecting member 4 to which the flaps 3 are connected, which are therefore driven to their turn in pivoting.

The shape of the coach 9 can be adapted according to the device 1 of

-12control in which it is located and the actuator 7. Referring to Figures 5a to 6b, the coach 9 comprises a main body 9a intended to be crossed by the drive shaft 70. The main body 9a is for example of generally cylindrical shape.

According to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 3a, 3b, 6a, 6b, and 7 the coach 9 further comprises an arm 9b configured to be coupled to at least one flap 3 for example by means of the member connection 4 (see Figure 2). According to the example illustrated, the arm 9b extends projecting from a corner or side of the main body 9a. The arm 9b therefore extends eccentrically. The arm 9b can extend axially in the direction of the flaps 3 or of the connecting member 4 for example. This configuration is not limiting. This configuration is advantageous, for example when the actuator 7 is intended to be placed on the side of the control device 1.

According to an alternative not shown, the driver 9 may have an extension substantially in the form of a fork intended to be connected to the flap (s) 3 or to the connecting member 4. Such a configuration can be advantageous when the actuator 7 is intended to be placed in the center of the control device 1.

The coach 9 further comprises a portion 9c which extends from the main body 9a on the side opposite to the arm 9b. This portion 9c is for example of generally tubular shape. The portion 9c extends for example centrally, from one face of the main body 9a. The portion 9c has a smaller diameter than the main body 9a.

Referring to Figures 5a to 6a, the coach 9 has a cavity defining a housing 91 in which the drive shaft 70, and the transmission element 11 are arranged at least partially (Figure 6b). This cavity is provided in the main body 9a. This main body 9a may have a shoulder 93 (FIGS. 5a to 5c) serving as a bearing surface and abutment for the drive shaft 70, in particular the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. The first part 71 of the drive shaft 70 can extend at least in part outside the driver 9 (FIGS. 5a to 5c, 6b) to come and assemble the actuator 7 (not shown in these figures), while the second and third parts 72, 73 can be housed inside the coach 9.

The driver 9 has a holding element 94 (FIG. 7), such as a retaining lug or hook, of the elastic return member 23, as will be described in more detail below. In the particular example shown, the holding element 94 extends projecting from the face of the main body 9a from which extends the portion 9c, for example tubular. H is a circular face in the example of the main cylindrical body 9a.

As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 8, the trainer 9 can also have a plurality of teeth 95 alternated with a plurality of recesses 97. More generally speaking, there are teeth. This toothing is formed on the internal surface of the main body 9a. More specifically, the toothing is provided so as to cooperate with the transmission element 11 (not visible in this figure) when it is received in the housing 91. In this example, the first teeth 95 do not extend over all the height of the main body 9a but only over a portion.

Referring again to Figures 6a to 7, the driver 9 may also have one or more locking elements of the drive shaft 70. It is a translation locking along the axis of drive A. These blocking elements can be arranged at the portion 9c of the driver 9. The blocking elements can be produced by blocking tabs 98 configured to cooperate with the groove 731 on the drive shaft 70 (visible in Figures 4a to 4f). The locking tabs 98 end for example with hooks. This produces, for example, an assembly by clipping or snap-fastening between the trainer 9 and the drive shaft 70. For example, the portion 9c may have notches 99 which delimit the locking tabs 98.

As regards the transmission element 11, referring again to FIGS. 3a and 5a to 5c, this is a separate element from the driver 9. H can be produced by a clutch bell. This transmission element 11 is arranged so as to couple in rotation the drive shaft 70 and the trainer 9 in normal operation (FIGS. 5a, 5b), and to separate from the trainer 9 in the event of failure of the 'actuator 7 (Figure 5c). Here, "normal operation" means a mode without

-14 fault, without actuator failure 7.

To do this, the transmission element 11 is mounted movable between a engaged position (Figures 5a, 5b) and a disengaged position (Figure 5c). In this example, the transmission element 11 is mounted movable axially, that is to say movable in translation along the drive axis A.

In the engaged position (Figures 5a, 5b), the transmission element 11 can transmit a movement of the drive shaft 70 to the driver 9. The transmission element 11 is coupled in rotation with the shaft d drive 70 and is coupled in rotation with the drive 9, thus making it possible to couple the drive 9 and the actuator 7 via the drive shaft 70. The drive 9 can then drive one or more flaps 3.

In the disengaged position (FIG. 5c), the transmission element 11 is detached from the driver 9. In this example, the transmission element 11 remains integral with the drive shaft 70 and is decoupled from the driver 9. The transmission element 11 therefore makes it possible to separate the flaps 3 from the actuator 7 by separating from the coach 9.

More specifically, concerning the cooperation of the transmission element 11 with the drive shaft 70, the transmission element 11 is placed around a portion of the drive shaft 70, namely in this example around an end portion which corresponds to the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. This arrangement is produced by cooperation of shapes between the transmission element 11 and the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70.

In addition, the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70, in particular the external surface which is opposite the transmission element 11, is configured to guide the movement, in this example the sliding, of the element transmission 11 around the second part 72 between the engaged and disengaged positions. It is a linear guide.

According to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3a and 4a to 5c, the transmission element 11 comprises a main body 15 which is arranged around the second

-15part 72 of the drive shaft 70.

In particular, the transmission element 11 comprises a housing 150 (see FIGS. 4a to 4c) configured to receive the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. This housing 150 is provided in this example at the level of the main body 15 of the transmission element 11.

The housing 150 has an elongated general shape complementary to the shape of the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. The second part 72 of the drive shaft 70 is intended to be arranged in this housing 150 so that the flats 720 are arranged opposite the long sides of the housing 150. This allows the drive shaft 70 to slide in the transmission element but blocks it in rotation. This makes it possible to transmit the torque from the actuator 7 to the driver 9 via the transmission element 11.

In addition, as illustrated in FIGS. 4c to 4e, and 5a to 5c, the transmission element 11 can have at least one lateral opening 151, in this example two opposite lateral openings 151. The elongated, for example oblong, shape of the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70 makes it possible to orient the arrangement of the latter in the housing 150 of the transmission element, so that the short side of the second part 72 is positioned opposite a lateral opening 151 of the transmission element 11. When the transmission element 11 and the drive shaft 70 are assembled, each lateral opening 151 s' aligns with the peripheral groove 721 of the drive shaft 70.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4e and 4f, it is possible to provide a cover 17 for closing the transmission element 11, which is fixed on the main body 15. The assembly is done for example by form cooperation between the main body 15 and the cover 17 for closing. Advantageously, additional fixing means 19 (FIG. 4f) are provided, such as clipping or snap-fastening means, for example, carried on the one hand by the main body 15 and on the other hand by the closing cover 17.

The cover 17 for closing the transmission element 11 comprises at least two openings 171. These are longitudinal openings 171.

-16According to a variant not shown, it could be envisaged that the transmission element 11, that is to say the parts 15 and 17 are made in one piece.

Furthermore, with regard to the cooperation of the transmission element 11 with the coach 9, the transmission element 11, in particular the main body 15, can be coupled by form cooperation to the coach 9 in operation normal. According to the embodiment described, the transmission element 11 is configured to mesh with the coach 9 in normal operation. For this purpose, with reference to FIG. 3a, the transmission element 11 has a toothing complementary to the toothing of the coach 9. This toothing is provided on a face of the main body 15 arranged on the side of the coach 9. The toothing of the transmission element 11 is configured to cooperate with the toothing of the coach 9 so as to couple the coach 9 and the transmission element 11 in rotation in the engaged position. The teeth of the transmission element 11 comprise a plurality of teeth 153 alternated with a plurality of recesses 155. The teeth 153 of the transmission element 11 are configured to be inserted between the teeth 95 (not visible in FIG. 3a ) of the trainer 9, so as to make the transmission element 11 and the trainer 9 integral in rotation.

In the disengaged position of the transmission element 11, its teeth are disengaged from the teeth of the trainer 9.

Furthermore, the separation between the flaps 3 and the actuator 7 by the separation between the transmission element 11 and the driver 9 can be reversible. In other words, the driver 9 and the transmission element 11 can return to the engaged position in which they are integral, for example when the failure of the actuator 7 was only temporary, to return to a normal operating configuration without anomaly.

In addition, the control device 1 comprises at least one member made of shape memory material 8 (more particularly visible in FIGS. 3a and 9) making it possible to separate the flap (s) 3 from the actuator 7.

The organ made of shape memory material 8 is arranged so as to separate the driver 9 from the actuator 7 in the event of failure of the actuator 7. To do this, the organ made of shape memory material 8 is arranged to urge the transmission element 11 in the event of failure of the actuator 7 towards the disengaged position. More specifically, the member made of shape memory material 8 axially biases the transmission element 11. In other words, when the actuator 7 is blocked following a failure, the transmission element 11 may, under the effect of the stress on the member made of shape memory material 8, be moved in translation to the disengaged position, independently of the drive shaft 70.

The member made of shape memory material 8 is configured to deform between a first state and a second state. More precisely, it is an elastic deformation of the member made of shape memory material 8. This change of state can take place in the event of failure of the actuator 7. The member made of memory material of form 8 is arranged so as to separate the flap (s) 3 from the actuator 7 when it changes from one state to another, in particular from the first to the second state.

The body made of shape memory material 8 can go from a compressed or retracted state to a relaxed state and vice versa. The body made of shape memory material 8 can, when compressed, relax or lengthen by a predefined distance. By way of nonlimiting example, a member made of shape memory material 8 can be provided with a retraction coefficient of the order of 2% to 8%, preferably of the order of 4%.

In the event of only temporary failure of the actuator 7, when the failure ceases, the member made of shape memory material 8 can return to the initial or rest state, for example to the compressed state.

According to the particular example illustrated in FIG. 5a, as long as the member made of shape memory material 8 (not visible in FIG. 5a) is compressed, it does not stress the transmission element 11 towards its disengaged position. Thus, the transmission element 11 remains in the engaged position, the transmission element 11 being coupled with the driver 9.

On the contrary, in the relaxed state as illustrated in FIG. 5c, the material organ

-18 with shape memory 8 exerts an axial stress on the transmission element 11 urging it towards the disengaged position (FIG. 5c), which leads to the separation of the transmission element 11 and the driver 9 if the latter were secured to each other beforehand, or which leaves the transmission element 11 in the disengaged position if the transmission element 11 was already detached from the driver 9.

According to an exemplary embodiment, when the member made of shape memory material 8 passes from one state to another, therefore relaxes or retracts, this corresponds to a displacement of the transmission element 11 over a length of in the range of 2 to 3mm.

The change of state of the organ made of shape memory material 8 can be triggered or activated by electrical power for example.

One can for example provide that when it is supplied with the organ in shape memory material 8 is in its compressed form and that when it is no longer supplied with current, it regains its relaxed form in the rest state and returns to its original length. Or conversely, it can be provided that, when it is supplied, the member made of shape memory material 8 is in its relaxed form and that when it is no longer supplied with current it regains its compressed form at the state of rest. This is the preferred embodiment variant.

The member made of shape memory material 8 may comprise at least one spring.

In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the member made of shape memory material 8 may comprise two springs 81, for example helical, joining by one end 83. In other words, the two springs 81 have a common end 83. We can also speak of double winding 81 to form the body of shape memory material 8.

The body made of shape memory material 8 may be able to be connected to a power supply source (not shown). The free ends 85 of the two springs 81, that is to say on the side opposite to the common end 83, can be configured to be connected to the power supply source (not shown).

According to a particular nonlimiting exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3a, 4c to 4f and 9, the member made of shape memory material 8 may comprise at least

-19two contactor elements 87. It is, for example, friction shoes 87.

According to the particular example illustrated with a member made of shape memory material 8 produced by two springs or two windings 81 connected by a common end 83, a wiper 87 is connected to the end 85 of each spring or winding 81, which is opposite the common end 83. The wiper 87 is connected at least electrically to the end 85 of the spring 81.

The member made of shape memory material 8 is arranged inside the drive shaft 70, in the cavity 75. The general shape substantially in "eight" of the cavity 75 is suitable for the two contiguous springs 81 The second part 72 of the drive shaft 70 having this cavity 75 being surrounded by the main body 15 of the transmission element 11, the member made of shape memory material 8 is at least partly inside of the main body 15. The arrangement of the closing hood 17 on the main body 15 makes it possible to sandwich between the closing hood 17 and the main body 15, at least part of the wipers 87, at the junction with the ends 85 of the springs 81.

The wipers 87 may each have a tongue 871 terminated by one end 872. The openings 171 provided on the closure cover 17 are of complementary shape to the contactor elements 87, in particular the tongues 871, of the member made of shape memory material 8 The tongues 871 pass through the openings 171 of the cover 17 for closing.

In particular, the wipers 87 are at least partly flexible. More specifically, at least the tongues 871 are flexible.

The realization of the member in shape memory material 8 is not limited to this particular example. Any other form of the member made of shape memory material 8 can be envisaged. For example, one can provide a wire of shape memory material, which can be substantially straight or have at least on a section a curved or spiral shape.

The control device 1 may include one or more electrical connection means for connecting the member made of shape memory material 8 to the

-20 electrical power source (not shown).

According to the illustrated embodiment, the control device 1 comprises a support 10 for tracks, visible in FIG. 3a.

The support 10 of tracks is mounted while being retained in rotation in the control device 1. The support 10 tracks can be mounted on the frame 5 (see Figure 10), so as to be locked in rotation. To do this, the frame 5 may have a support bearing 53 to which the support 10 of tracks is fixed by any suitable means. In addition, the cover 10 can have an indexing member 100 with at least one flat 102 (see FIG. 3b). The indexing member 100 is configured to be received in a housing of complementary shape on the frame 5 (not visible in FIG. 3b) allowing in particular a translation of the support 10 of tracks relative to the frame 5 for assembly and preventing to the support 10 of tracks to be movable in rotation relative to the frame 5.

Referring again to FIG. 3 a, the support 10 has at least two conductive tracks 101 for electrically supplying the member with shape memory material 8. By way of example, the conductive tracks 101 can be electrically supplied with in the event of failure of the actuator 7. When the actuator 7 is separated from the flaps 3, the electrical supply of the conductive tracks 101 can be cut. A gap or space can be provided between the two tracks 101. For example, the conductive tracks 101 are separated by a non-conductive track 101 ’.

In addition, with reference to FIGS. 5a to 5c, the contactor elements 87 are configured to each come into electrical contact with a conductive track 101 associated at least under certain conditions, for example at least when the member made of memory material of form 8 is in the first state, in this example in the rest state.

The wipers 87 are movable relative to the support 10 of tracks. In other words, the wipers 87 can pass from one position to another with respect to the support 10 of tracks when the organ made of shape memory material 8 changes state.

In addition, the member made of shape memory material 8 is mounted in an assembly

-21mobile in rotation around the drive axis A, while the support 10 of tracks can remain retained in rotation. This forms a rotary contactor for supplying the member with shape memory material 8.

At least when the member made of shape memory material 8 is in the first state, in this example in the rest state, the wipers 87 can be in abutment against the conductive tracks 101, whatever the angular position of the body made of shape memory material 8 relative to the support 10 of tracks. Thus, when the member made of shape memory material 8 is supplied, in the event of failure of the actuator 7 for example, electrical contact is ensured between the wipers 87 and the conductive tracks 101, whatever the angular position of the body made of shape memory material 8.

According to an advantageous mode, the wipers 87 are not configured to be arranged continuously in contact with the conductive tracks 101. In particular, the wipers 87 can be configured and / or sized so that at the end of the travel of the material member with shape memory 8, when the latter relaxes, at least one of the wipers 87 or the two wipers 87 come out of the conductive tracks 101 and come into mechanical contact with the non-conductive intermediate track 101 'and without electrical contact.

The output of the wipers 87 from the conductive tracks 101 then stops the electrical supply to the member of shape memory material 8 which, when cooling, then tends to return to the state of rest, that is to say to regain its compressed form.

In addition, when the actuator 7 is separated from the flaps 3, the tracks 101 are no longer supplied with current. Thus, when the member made of shape memory material 8 compresses so that the wipers 87 are again in contact with an associated conductive track 101, the power supply having been stopped, the member made of shape memory material 8 can return to the rest state, that is to say in the example described compressed.

In addition, the support 10 has for example a generally annular shape centered on the drive axis A. According to an advantageous configuration, the support 10

-22de tracks defines a certain radial size and the wipers 87 are arranged in the control device 1 without exceeding radially with respect to the space defined by the support 10 of tracks. In other words, the wipers 87 are arranged in the same radial size or with a smaller radial size than the support 10 of tracks. The term "radial" is defined with respect to the drive axis A. The wipers 87 are thus in alignment with the support 10 of the tracks.

Furthermore, the support 10 for tracks can also carry at least one electrical connector 105 intended to be connected to the electrical power source (not shown).

The support 10 for tracks can also be shaped so as to receive a seal 31. It can be for example as illustrated in FIG. 5b of a groove 107 on a peripheral skirt of the support 10 for tracks. The peripheral skirt of the support 10 extends in the direction of the transmission element 11 and of the drive shaft 70 in the assembled state of the control device 1.

With particular reference to FIGS. 5a to 5c, so as to obtain a sealed device 1, a seal 31 can be arranged at the interface between the driver 9, more particularly the main body 9a of the driver 9, and the track support 10. It is advantageously an O-ring capable of working in motion. To this end, the driver 9 can have a peripheral groove 90 intended to be arranged opposite and to cooperate with the groove 107 on the peripheral skirt of the support 10 of tracks to maintain the seal 31.

Likewise, a seal 33 can be arranged at the interface between the driver 9 and the drive shaft 70, more particularly between the portion 9c of the driver 9 and the third part 73 of the drive shaft. drive 70. It is advantageously an O-ring capable of working in motion. To this end, the driver 9 can have another peripheral groove 90 ′ intended to be arranged facing and cooperate with the peripheral groove 77 on the junction part 73 for

-23maintain the gasket 33.

Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 3a, the control device 1 also comprises at least one elastic return element 21.

The elastic return element 21 is arranged so as to exert a return force urging the transmission element 11 towards the engaged position (FIGS. 5a, 5b). This allows the coupling of the driver 9 and the actuator 7 under normal conditions of use, that is to say here in the absence of failure of the actuator 7. In this example, the stress on the 'transmission element 11 is made axially.

When the member made of shape memory material 8 changes state and biases the transmission element 11 towards the disengaged position (FIG. 5c), for example when it relaxes, this is against the force exerted by the elastic return element 21.

In this example, the elastic return element 21 is arranged so as to urge the main body 15 of the transmission element 11.

For example, the elastic return element 21 can be produced in the form of a clip intended to grip the drive shaft 70, here the second part 72, housed in the transmission element 11, while bearing against at least one surface of the transmission element 11. The elastic return element 21, for example in this form of staple, thus makes it possible to link the drive shaft 70 and the element transmission 11.

The clip, better visible in Figure 4b, has a base 211 from which extend two legs 213, in parallel or substantially parallel. In the example illustrated, the legs 213 are curved when the clip is in the rest state (FIGS. 4b and 5a). When the member made of shape memory material 8 changes state and biases the transmission element 11 towards the disengaged position (FIG. 5c), the clip is compressed so that the tabs 213 extend substantially in the same plane as the base 211 of the clip.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4c to 4e, and 5a to 5c, the lateral openings 151 of the transmission element 11 allow the insertion of the elastic return element 21. Once introduced via the opening 151 of the transmission element 11, the transmission element

Elastic spring 21, for example in the form of a staple, partially engages around the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. The tabs 213 of the staple are arranged in the peripheral groove 721 of the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70. The height of the peripheral groove 721 is therefore adapted to the curvature of the legs 213 in this example. The base 211 of the clip bears against a surface delimiting a lateral opening 151 of the transmission element 11. In a complementary manner, the ends of the legs 213 of the clip can come to bear against a surface delimiting a lateral opening opposite 151 of the transmission element 11.

The drive shaft 70 and the transmission element 11, more precisely, the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70, and the main body 15 and the closing cover 17 of the transmission element 11, form a mobile assembly itself mounted in the coach 9 which is also mobile (FIGS. 5a to 5c and 6a, 6b).

These elements form a clutch and disengage mechanism making it possible to couple or separate the transmission element 11 and the driver 9. The driver 9 houses part of this mechanism.

Referring again to Figures 2 and 3a, the elastic return member 23 for urging the coach 9 to a predefined position for the opening of the flaps 3, is fixed on the one hand to the coach 9 and d on the other hand to a fixed element of the control device 1.

When the trainer 9 is detached from the transmission element 11, in the event of failure of the actuator 7, the elastic return member 23 makes it possible to move the trainer 9 in rotation around the drive axis A , to a predefined position. It is a predetermined angular position in which the flaps 3 are open.

In particular, the elastic return member 23 is arranged around the tubular portion 9c, for example of the driver 9.

The elastic return member 23 can be produced in the form of a spring

-25 recall, such as a torsion spring, also referenced subsequently by 23.

The two ends 231, 233 of the spring 23 can extend in the same direction or in two different directions. At least one end 233 of such a spring 23 can extend in a direction normal to the drive axis A.

The directions of extension of the ends 231, 233 of the spring 23 are adapted as a function of the complementary holding elements provided on the one hand on the coach 9 and on the other hand on the fixed element of the control device 1.

The holding element 94 such as a retaining lug or hook provided on the driver 9, makes it possible to hold one of the ends 231 of such a spring 23 (see FIG. 7).

The fixed element of the control device 1 to which the return spring 23 is fixed has another element for holding the other end of the return spring 23. An example of such a fixed element is described in more detail below. .

The control device 1 also comprises a base 25 arranged fixed in the device 1.

The base 25 can be fixed to the frame 5 (see FIG. 10). To this end, the frame 5 may comprise another support bearing 57 having an opening for the passage and the fixing of the base 25. This support bearing 57 may extend in parallel or almost parallel to the support bearing 53 for fixing. support 10 tracks.

The elastic return member 23, visible by transparency in FIG. 10, is fixed on the one hand to the trainer 9 and on the other hand to the base 25.

When the control device 1 is assembled, the portion 9c of the driver 9 is received in the base 25 and the elastic return member 23 is arranged between the driver 9 and an internal wall of the base 25. With such an arrangement, the elastic return member 23 is protected by the base 25.

The driver 9 is assembled to the base 25 while remaining movable in rotation relative to the base 25 which remains fixed.

The base 25, better visible in Figures 11a to lld has an internal space 250 for receiving the portion 9c of the trainer 9. The internal space 250 of the base 25

-26 is complementary to portion 9c. More generally, the base 25 may have a general shape complementary to the general shape of the coach 9.

For example, the base 25 comprises a main body 25a of generally cylindrical shape. The base 25 may include a fixing lug 25b which extends radially relative to the main body 25a.

In a delivery position (see Figure 13) before assembly on the frame 5 (not visible in this figure), the driver 9 and the base 25 can be assembled so that the fixing lug 25b is in alignment of the arm 9b of the driver 9. A pin 27 can be inserted into corresponding openings in the fixing lug 25b and in the driver 9, to position and immobilize the driver 9 and the base 25 in this position of delivery.

Furthermore, the driver 9 alone can first be assembled to the base 25 (FIG. 11c) before in turn receiving the drive shaft 70, the transmission element 11, the member made of material to be shape memory 8, or even support 10, not visible in FIG. 11c. As a variant, it is the whole of the trainer 9 already receiving the drive shaft 70, the transmission element 11, the member made of shape memory material 8, or even the support 10, which can be mounted in the base 25 (Figure lld).

In addition, when the drive shaft 70 is mounted in the driver 9, the first part 71 of the drive shaft 70 protrudes from the base 25 (Figure 13) to allow coupling with the actuator 7 not shown in this figure.

The base 25 also has at least one holding element, for example a holding slot 251, from one of the ends 233 of the return spring 23, as is better visible in FIG. 11b. The holding slot 251 is provided on the internal wall of the base 25 which delimits the internal space 250 for receiving the driver 9. The holding slot 251 extends, for example longitudinally longitudinally parallel or almost parallel to the drive axis A. The holding slot 251 can extend over all or almost the entire height of the base 25 along the drive axis A. This facilitates the arrangement of the return spring 23 in the base 25 with the end 233 which is received in the slot 251.

Referring to Figures 11a and 11b, the base 25 may have a shoulder

-27,253. This shoulder 253 can form a support surface for the return spring 23. The base 25 therefore has a change in diameter.

The base 25 may also have at least one means for positioning the return spring 23. It is for example a boss 255 or several bosses 255 distributed over the inner surface of the base 25. The or each boss 255 extends radially over a distance which corresponds to the difference between the outside diameter of the return spring 23 and the inside diameter of the part of the base 25 receiving the return spring 23. In the example illustrated, the ( s) boss (es) 255 does not extend over the entire height of the base 25, along the drive axis A, but only over a portion.

In the example shown, the boss or bosses 25 extend from the shoulder 253 in the direction of the main body 9a of the driver 9 (see FIGS. 11c, lld) during assembly.

Normal operating mode without failure

Thus, in a normal operating mode, that is to say without anomaly, without failure of the actuator 7, the actuator 7 causes the flaps 3 to move, in this example by means of the link 4 (Figures 1 and 2).

Referring to FIG. 5a or 5b, the elastic return element 21 is in the rest state, and the member made of shape memory material 8 is not supplied and is compressed. The wipers 87 can be arranged in contact with the tracks 101. As long as the member made of shape memory material 8 remains in the compressed state, the transmission element 11 is kept coupled with the driver 9 by force. of return exerted by the elastic return element 21.

The actuator 7 (not visible in FIG. 5a) causes, under the effect of a command, the rotation of the drive shaft 70 coupled in rotation to the transmission element 11, the driver 9 being integral of the transmission element 11, it then adopts the same rotary movement. The connecting member 4 (see Figure 2) is in turn driven by the coach 9 and here, simultaneously, pivotally flaps 3 to change position.

To move the flaps 3 to a closed position, the actuator 7 brings the coach 9 into a predefined position against the restoring force exerted by the return member 23. Conversely, to move the flaps 3 to an open position, the actuator 7 brings the coach 9 into a predefined position which corresponds to the rest position of the return member 23.

Operating mode in the event of actuator failure

In the event that the actuator 7 undergoes a failure, such as for example when the actuator 7 is no longer supplied following a short circuit or a cut in the electrical harness or further following a non-functioning of the electrical control , or even in the case of an internal breakage of an element of the actuator 7, the connecting member 4 and therefore the flaps 3 are separated from the drive shaft 70 and therefore from the actuator 7 ( with reference to Figures 2 and 3a).

More specifically, the member made of shape memory material 8 can be supplied electrically, and deforms between the first state and the second state, that is to say according to the example described, it can relax or lengthen by a sufficient distance to decouple the transmission element 11 and the trainer 9. In fact, the member made of shape memory material 8 while stretching stresses the transmission element 11 which moves towards the disengaged position (Figure 5c) and thus separates from the coach 9. In this example, the teeth provided respectively on the transmission element 11 and the coach 9 are disengaged from one another.

In addition, during the relaxation of the member made of shape memory material 8, the wipers 87 are crushed against the support 10 of tracks, advantageously until at the end of the stroke of the member made of material shape memory 8, their ends 872 come out of the tracks 101 and come into mechanical contact with the non-conductive track 101 'and without electrical contact. The output of the wipers 87 from the tracks 101 then stops the electrical supply of the member with shape memory material 8. Thus, the wipers 87 are electrically supplied only for the minimum necessary allowing the separation of the trainer 9 and the transmission element 11, that is to say long enough for the toothing of the transmission element 11 to

-29disengage from that of Coach 9.

The driver 9 disengages from the transmission element 11, itself coupled to the drive shaft 70 which is integral with the actuator 7.

The driver 9, once detached from the actuator 7, finds itself free to rotate relative to the drive shaft 70. The return member 23 allows the flaps 3 to be brought back to the open position. More specifically, this return member 23 moves the driver 9 to the predefined or rest position of the return member 23, which corresponds to an open position of the flaps 3, for example by means of the connecting member 4 which has remained integral with the coach 9. The coach 9, and in particular its portion 9c rotates inside the base 25 which remains fixed.

When the actuator 7 is separated from the flaps 3, the tracks 101 are no longer supplied with current. As for the body made of shape memory material 8, when it cools, it returns to the compressed state.

As long as the actuator 7 does not again transmit a rotational movement to the drive shaft 70, the driver 9 remains in the open position of the flaps 3.

If the actuator 7 comes to operate again, provision can be made for the transmission element 11 to be able to join again to the driver 9. The device 1 could then reposition itself in its initial configuration. In fact, as soon as the actuator 7 starts to move again, the teeth 95 of the driver 9 return to face the hollows 155 of the teeth on the transmission element 11.

The device according to the present invention therefore has the advantage, in a situation where the actuator 7 is faulty, to allow a return to a configuration where the flaps 3 are in the open position without the need for intervention exterior. Indeed, the transmission element 11 making it possible to couple or separate the driver 9 from the drive shaft 70 in the event of failure of the actuator 7.

The driver 9, once detached from the transmission element 11, is brought back to a position in which the flaps remain open unlocking the air intake, independently of the actuator 7. The air can thus exchange with the fluids circulating in the heat exchangers in the motor vehicle thus avoiding overheating

-30from the engine and the vehicle's emergency stop.

Furthermore, the arrangement of the member made of shape memory material 8 axially urging the transmission element 11 inside the second part 72 of the drive shaft 70, itself inside of the transmission element 11 5 while allowing the guiding of this transmission element 11 between the engaged and disengaged positions, offers a certain compactness to said mechanism.

Claims (10)

-31REVENDICATIONS 1. Control device (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, of at least one flap (3) configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position, said device (1) comprising: - a driver (9) configured to be coupled to said at least one flap (3) and configured to be driven by an actuator (7) so as to move said at least one flap (3) and to be detached from the actuator ( 7) in the event of failure of the actuator (7), - a drive shaft (70) configured to be driven by the actuator (7), and - a transmission element (11) mounted movable between: • a engaged position in which it couples the drive shaft (70) and the driver (9), and • a disengaged position in which it disengages the driver (9) from the drive shaft (70) , characterized in that said device (1) comprises at least one elastic return member (23) arranged so as to urge the driver (9) to move it, when it is detached from the drive shaft (70 ), in a predefined position, in which the driver (9) is configured to maintain said at least one flap (3) in the open position when the driver (9) is coupled to said at least one flap (3). 2. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, said at least one elastic return member (23) is produced in the form of a return spring. 3. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a base (25) arranged fixed in said device (1), and in which said at least one elastic return member (23) is fixed on the one hand to the coach (9) and on the other hand to the base (25). 4. Device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the base (25) has an internal space (250) to receive a portion (9c) of complementary shape of the coach (9). 5. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said at least one elastic return member (23) is arranged between the coach (9) and an internal wall of the base (25). 6. Device (1) according to claim 2 and any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the coach (9) has a holding element (94) of one of the ends (231) of the return spring (23). 7. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the driver (9) comprises a housing (91) in which the drive shaft (70) and the transmission element (11) are arranged at least partially . 8. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one member of shape memory material (8) configured to deform between a first state and a second state, and arranged so as to stress the transmission element (11) to disconnect it from the driver (9) in the event of failure of the actuator (7). 9. Frame (5) comprising at least one flap (3) configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position, characterized in that it comprises a device (1) for controlling said at least one flap (3) according to any of the preceding claims. 10. Frame (5) according to the preceding claim, wherein said device (1) comprises a base (25) fixed to the frame (5).