WO2012110203A1

WO2012110203A1 - Air flap arrangement

Info

Publication number: WO2012110203A1
Application number: PCT/EP2012/000464
Authority: WO
Inventors: Uwe Klippert; Gerald Terraz
Original assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile Gmbh & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Coburg
Priority date: 2011-02-15
Filing date: 2012-02-02
Publication date: 2012-08-23
Also published as: DE102011004169A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an air flap arrangement, in particular for regulating the inflow of air to a radiator of a motor vehicle. The air flap arrangement has a first flow channel, a first flap, a shaft having a first cam and a first coupling element. The first flap can be pivoted about a first pivot axis between an open position and a closed position. In the open position the first flap frees the first flow channel, whilst in the closed position said flap substantially closes the first flow channel. The shaft can be rotated about an axis of rotation. The first coupling element is coupled to the first cam and is connected to the first flap via a first articulation joint. To this end the first cam, the first coupling element and a section of the first flap extending between the first articulation joint and the first pivot axis can be moved by a rotary movement of the shaft as a four-bar linkage for pivoting the first flap in such a way that a first angle enclosed by the first coupling element with the first cam increases as the first flap pivots from the open into the closed position.

Description

Air flap assembly

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an air damper assembly, particularly for regulating the flow of air to a radiator of a motor vehicle.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

It is well known to equip motor vehicles with internal combustion engine with provided in the engine compartment shades to vary the flow of a cooler with cooling air depending on the operating condition of the engine can. Such blinds often have multiple flaps that can be opened or closed as needed. Although the present invention can be used in a variety of applications in which air flow regulation is desired, the invention and the problem underlying it will be described below with reference to the regulation of the flow of cooling air to the radiator of a motor vehicle by means of a blind or the like Venetian blind arrangement described in more detail. EP 2 233 343 A2 shows a flap arrangement which is provided for varying the inflow of cooling air into the engine compartment of a vehicle. The actuation of the flaps takes place there via a side of the flaps arranged lever mechanism. In this blind the lever mechanism used to adjust the flaps is open

Flaps of the air flow, which flows through the blind exposed. In a vehicle, this air flows in through the grille and may contain dust, dirt and sand. In this blind there is therefore the danger that the Ver adjusting mechanism thereby heavily contaminated. Furthermore, in the case of the Venetian blind shown in EP 2 233 343 A2, forces for opening and closing the flaps only act on a narrow side of each flap. However, especially when the flaps of the blind are to be long and / or comparatively thin and thus lightweight, such introduction of force can cause problems. In particular, it may happen that the actuated flap is twisted around its longitudinal direction and possibly no longer closes properly in an end region facing away from the adjustment mechanism.

This is a condition to be improved. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Against this background, the present invention seeks to provide an improved air damper assembly.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by an air flap arrangement having the features of patent claim 1.

Accordingly, an air damper assembly is provided which is particularly suitable for regulating the flow of air to a radiator of a motor vehicle having a first flow passage having a first flap pivotable about a first pivot axis between an open position and a closed position rotatable shaft, which has a first eccentric, with a first coupling element which is coupled to the first eccentric and connected via a first joint to the first flap, wherein the first eccentric, the first coupling element and a between the first joint and the first pivot axis extending portion of the first flap a rotational movement of the shaft as a four-bar linkage for pivoting the first flap are movable such that a first angle, which includes the first coupling element with the first eccentric increases in the pivoting of the first flap from the open to the closed position.

The idea underlying the invention is to actuate the first flap by means of a four-bar joint, which is formed by the first eccentric, the first coupling element and a portion of the first flap, which extends between the first joint and the first pivot axis. A pivoting of the first eccentric by rotating the shaft causes a mediated via the first coupling element pivotal movement of the first flap about the first pivot axis.

Characterized in that the first eccentric, the first coupling element and the first joint are arranged such that the first angle increases during the pivoting of the first flap from the open to the closed position, it succeeds on the one, the eccentric and the first coupling element Space-saving and protected against the flow on a downstream side of the flap accommodate, instead of the side of the flap, as in prior art blinds. In particular, this makes it possible to arrange the first joint, the first eccentric and the first coupling element for actuating the flap at any one or more arbitrary locations across the width of the flap, viewed in the longitudinal direction thereof. A twisting or twisting of the flap about the longitudinal direction and consequent leakage problems can be avoided in this way.

On the other hand, it succeeds in that the first angle increases when closing the first flap, at a constant rotational speed of the shaft at the beginning of the closing process To achieve a comparatively large pivoting speed of the first flap at relatively low operating forces and at the end of the closing operation, when the first flow channel is already almost completely closed by the first flap, to achieve a relatively low pivoting speed of the first flap at relatively high operating forces. This is particularly advantageous because with continued closing of the first flap on this by the damming of the airstream before the first flap acting resistance forces for further pivoting in the fully closed position increasing actuating forces required. The air flap arrangement according to the invention is thus adapted to the loads actually acting on the first flap during operation.

In the open position, the first flap releases the first flow channel and in the closed position, the first flap substantially closes the first flow channel.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments will become apparent from the other dependent claims and from the description with reference to the figures of the drawing. In one embodiment of the invention, the rotatable shaft is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation, which runs substantially parallel to the first pivot axis. As a result, the first joint can be formed in a particularly simple manner, since it then only has to provide swiveling about one axis.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a second flow channel is provided. Further, a second flap is provided, which in opposite directions to the first flap about a second pivot axis between an open Position and a closed position is pivotable. In the open position of the second flap this releases the second flow channel, while the second flap substantially closes the second flow channel in its closed position. In addition, the shaft has a second eccentric in this embodiment. It is provided a second coupling element, which is coupled to the second eccentric and connected via a second joint with the second flap. In this case, the second eccentric, the second coupling element and a section of the second flap extending between the second joint and the second pivot axis can be moved as a four-bar linkage for pivoting the second flap by a rotary movement of the shaft. A second angle, which the second coupling element encloses with the second eccentric, increases during the pivoting of the second flap from the open position to the closed position. Thus, by means of a single shaft on the first and second eccentric two simultaneously mutually pivotable flaps can be operated. This allows the pivoting of the two flaps take place in a space-saving manner and without the need for another wave. Also, no additional actuator is required. In a further embodiment, the first eccentric and the second eccentric are arranged on the shaft at the same position along the axis of rotation of the shaft. On the eccentric acting supporting forces which occur when supporting the two flaps against the wind, can be compensated in this way at least partially against each other.

A bending of the shaft can be avoided or at least reduced.

In another development, the first and the second pivot axis extend parallel to each other. Preferably stimulated men the first and second pivot axis in this embodiment, however, the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis can also be arranged in parallel and spaced from each other. A parallel arrangement of the pivot axes can facilitate a windproof coupling of the flaps moving in opposite directions to one another on the windward side.

In an improvement of the invention, the first flap and the second flap form a closed wing profile, in particular a convex symmetrical wing profile, when the first flap and the second flap are each in the open position. Here, the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis in the state in which the first flap and the second flap form the closed profile, arranged in the region of a leading edge of the wing profile. In the open position of the first and second flaps, it is desirable to flow through the first and second flow channels as unhindered as possible. In other words, when the first flap and the second flap are completely opened, the lowest possible pressure loss is to be achieved and a separation of the flow from the opened flaps is to be avoided. This is achieved in this embodiment of the invention in that the first and the second flap in the opened state form a closed, preferably aerodynamically favorable, profile. In order to avoid that the air flow when closing the first and second flap by pivoting this from the open to the closed position between the flaps and it comes with only partial closing of the first and second flap to an unfavorable flow with recirculation and separation phenomena , are the first and second

Swivel axis advantageously arranged in the region of a leading edge of the sash profile. In a preferred embodiment, the front edge of the wing profile is rounded and thus provides sufficient space for the pivotable mounting of the first and second flap. In addition, a rounded front edge is aerodynamically favorable.

In a further embodiment of the invention, downstream edge regions of the first and second flaps lie on one another such that the airfoil profile has a closed rear edge when the first and second flaps are each in the open position. The air masses flowing in the first flow channel and the second flow channel can be brought together again at a closed trailing edge while avoiding large flow separations. Preferably, the trailing edge of the wing profile formed in the open position of the two flaps is designed to taper to a point.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the first and the second eccentric, the first and the second coupling element and at least a portion of the shaft are received in an interior of the airfoil when the first and the second flap are each in the open position. As a result, the eccentric, the coupling elements and the shaft are well shielded from the incoming air, and entrained by the air entrained dusts, sand and the like can less easily attach to the eccentrics and the coupling elements and pollute them. An impairment of the mobility of the coupling elements, the eccentric and the shaft against each other and against the flaps by such contamination is avoided.

In one embodiment, the second coupling element is formed pivotable relative to the second eccentric about a third pivot axis. This is the second angle from a straight line through the second joint and through the projection of the third pivot axis into a radial plane of the shaft on the one hand and from another straight line through the projections of the rotation axis and the third pivot axis into the radial plane to the other.

In a further embodiment, the first coupling element is formed pivotable relative to the first eccentric about a fourth pivot axis. The first angle is thereby enclosed by a straight line through the first joint and by the projection of the fourth pivot axis into a radial plane of the shaft on the one hand and by a further straight line through the projections of the rotation axis and the fourth pivot axis into the radial plane to the other.

In a further development of the invention, the first coupling element extends in the open position of the first flap substantially parallel to the first flap. Additionally or alternatively, in this development, the second coupling element extends in the open

Position of the second flap substantially parallel to the second flap. The coupling elements are thereby housed in a particularly space-saving manner in the open position of the flaps, and in particular when the first and the second flap form a closed wing profile in the open position.

In one embodiment of the invention, the first coupling element is rigid and hingedly connected to the first eccentric. Additionally or alternatively, the second coupling element in this embodiment is rigid and hingedly connected to the second eccentric. The rigid design of the coupling elements makes it possible in the closed position of the flaps against particular high, to support by the wind on the flaps acting forces.

In a further embodiment, the first coupling element is designed as a curved, in particular a circular arc, coupling lever. Additionally or alternatively, in this embodiment, the second coupling element may also be formed as a curved, in particular circular arc, coupling lever. In the open position of the first flap or the second flap, a first or second curved coupling element can save space around a part of the circumference of the shaft. This allows, for example, a particularly slim design of the wing profile when the flaps in the open position such a bil-.

In another development, the first coupling element is designed as a first section of a wire-forming spring. Additionally or alternatively, the second coupling element is designed as a second section of a wire-forming spring. As a result, the pivoting of the coupling element relative to the associated eccentric can be accomplished without the need for an additional rotary joint on the eccentric. Instead, the pivoting of the respective coupling element by elastic deformation of the

Wire form spring can be effected during pivoting of the associated flap. In this way, it is also advantageously possible to use the wire-forming spring to allow an additional torque to act between the coupling element and the eccentric. The wire-forming spring can for example be designed such that either the opening or the closing of the associated flap takes place with a pivoting of the coupling element relative to the associated eccentric against the spring force of the wire-forming spring. The wire form spring can then relax either when closing or when opening the respective flap.

In a particularly advantageous development, the first coupling element and the second coupling element form end-side sections of the same wire-form spring. By virtue of this measure, instead of two individual coupling elements, only a single wire-forming spring is required, as a result of which the number of components and the assembly outlay are reduced.

In a further improvement of the invention, in each case a winding mandrel is formed on the first and / or the second eccentric. A third or a fourth section of the wire form spring is wound around the winding mandrel. As a result, the wire-forming spring can be very easily fastened to the first and / or second eccentric.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the first joint on an inner side facing away from the first flap in the closed position of the flow inside the first

Arranged flap. Additionally or alternatively, the second joint is disposed on an inner side of the second flap facing away from the flow in the closed position of the second flap. As a result, the first and second joints are protected from contamination by the incoming air, which can carry sand and dirt.

In an advantageous development of the air flap arrangement according to the invention, the first flap has a first stiffening rib, wherein the first joint on the first

Stiffening rib is arranged. Additionally or alternatively, the second flap is provided with a second stiffening rib, and the second joint is disposed on the second stiffening rib. On the one hand, this can improve the stiffness of the flaps, as a result of which se less under the load of the accumulating in front of the flaps wind can deform less. On the other hand, the actuating and supporting forces applied to the first and second flap via the first and second hinges are advantageously introduced into a resistant stiffening element in this manner. This improves the support of the flaps against the surface acting on these air resistance forces. In addition, the torsional rigidity of the respective flap can be increased by means of such stiffening ribs. This can be advantageous for a tight closing of the flaps.

In another embodiment, the first flap has a first protrusion projecting on an outer side of the first flap which faces in the closed position of the first flap of the flow, wherein the first joint is arranged within the first protrusion. Additionally or alternatively, the second flap on a projecting in the closed position of the second flap of the on-flow outside of the second flap projecting second bulge, wherein the second joint is disposed within the second bulge. As a result, the flap can be made less curved in areas outside the bulge. If the first flap and the second flap in the respective open position form a closed wing profile, then it can be achieved by this measure that the wing profile over a large part of its span can be made even flatter and the air resistance of the damper assembly with open first and second flaps further reduced. On the other hand, the coupling elements and eccentric can be made larger and more stable by this configuration with a fixed thickness of the wing profile formed by the flaps. In a still further improvement of the invention, a first friction nose is provided on the first eccentric, which points in the open position of the first flap to the inside of the first flap and preferably rests against it in the open position. Additionally or alternatively, a second friction nose can also be provided on the second eccentric, which points in the open position of the second flap to the inside of the second flap and preferably rests against this. Upon rotation of the shaft to close the first and / or second flap, the first and second frictional lobe can slide slightly on the inside of the associated flap, thus assisting the beginning of the closing operation by pressing against the associated flap from the inside.

The above embodiments and developments can, if appropriate, combine with each other as desired. Further possible refinements, developments and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention which have not been explicitly mentioned above or described below with regard to the exemplary embodiments.

In particular, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention.

CONTENTS OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments given in the schematic figures of the drawings. Hereby show:

Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of an air damper assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, viewed from a downstream side of the arrangement, with closed flaps. Fig. 1A is a detail of Figure 1 in an enlarged view.

FIG. 2 shows the air flap arrangement of FIG. 1 in a state in which the flaps are partially opened; FIG.

Fig. 2A is a detail of Figure 2 in an enlarged view.

FIG. 3 shows the air flap arrangement of FIG. 1 in a state in which the flaps are completely opened; FIG.

Fig. 3A is a detail of Figure 3 in an enlarged view.

FIG. 4 is an overall perspective view of the louver assembly of FIG. 1 viewed from the downstream side in a condition in which the flaps are fully opened; FIG.

4A shows the air flap assembly according to the first embodiment in the state of Figure 4, in a perspective view, viewed from the upstream side.

Fig. 5 is an overall perspective view of the louver assembly of Fig. 1, as viewed from the downstream side, in a condition in which the flaps are partially closed;

5A shows the louver arrangement according to the first embodiment in the state of FIG. 5, in a perspective view, seen from the inlet side;

6 is an overall perspective view of the louver assembly of FIG. 1, as seen from the downstream side. FIG. seeks in a state in which the flaps are completely closed;

6A, the air flap assembly according to the first embodiment in the state of Figure 6, in a perspective view, viewed from the upstream side.

7 shows an air flap arrangement according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention in a partial view, in a perspective view, viewed from the outflow side, with completely closed flaps; Fig. 7A is a detail of Figure 7 in an enlarged view.

Fig. 8 shows the louver assembly of Fig. 7 in a condition in which the flaps are partially opened; FIG. 9 shows the air flap arrangement of FIG. 7 in a state in which the flaps are opened further than in the state of FIG. 8; FIG.

FIG. 10 shows the air flap arrangement of FIG. 7 in a state in which the flaps are opened even further than in FIG. 9; FIG.

Fig. 11 shows the louver assembly of Fig. 7 in a condition in which the flaps are fully opened;

12 shows the air flap arrangement according to the second exemplary embodiment of the invention in a sectional view AA, as indicated in FIG. 11, in a state in which the flaps are fully opened; FIG. 13 shows the air flap arrangement according to the second exemplary embodiment in the sectional view of FIG. 12, during the closing of the flaps, at the beginning of the closing operation; FIG.

FIG. 14 shows the air flap arrangement according to the second exemplary embodiment in the sectional view of FIG. 12, in a state which follows the state of FIG. 13 when the flaps are closed; FIG. and

Fig. 15, the air flap assembly according to the second embodiment in the sectional view of FIG. 12, in a state in which the flaps are fully closed.

The accompanying drawings are intended to provide further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the stated advantages will become apparent with reference to the drawings. The elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale to each other. In the figures of the drawings are the same, functionally identical and equivalent elements, features and components - unless otherwise stated - each provided with the same reference numerals. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Figure 1 shows an air flap assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, in a partial view. The illustrated air damper assembly is preferable for regulating the inflow of cooling air to a radiator of one Motor vehicle provided and can be arranged for this purpose in the front region of the motor vehicle, such as an automobile. 1 has a frame 1, in which a first flap 2a, which is only partly shown in FIG. 1, and a second flap 2b, also shown only partially, are pivotably mounted. FIG. 1 shows the air flap arrangement viewed from the outflow side, such that inner sides 3a, 3b of the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b facing away from one another in the position shown of the flaps 2a, 2b are visible. In the state shown in FIG. 1, the first and second flaps 2a and 2b are closed, in other words, they each assume their closed position. The first flap 2a and the second flap 2b are formed as flat, lamellar components, are curved in their transverse direction, and have on their inner sides 3a, 3b stiffening ribs 4, which extend substantially in the transverse direction of the flaps 2a, 2b and stiffen the flaps 2a, 2b. Preferably, the flaps 2a, 2b are formed integrally with the stiffening ribs 4, for example made of a plastic. Downstream of the first and second flaps 2a and 2b shown in FIG. 1, a shaft 5 is arranged, which extends essentially along the longitudinal direction of the flaps 2a, 2b. The shaft 5 is supported in the frame 1 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis D, and serves to operate, in other words, to open and close the flaps 2a, 2b. For this purpose, the shaft 5 can be set into a rotational movement by means of an actuator 6 and subjected to a torque. As Figure 1 further shows, the shaft 5 is further provided at a position along the rotation axis D with a first eccentric 7a and a second eccentric 7b. The eccentric 7a, 7b are rotatably connected to the shaft 5. Figure 1A shows the region of the damper assembly according to the first embodiment, in which the first and second eccentric 7a, 7b are arranged, in an enlarged view. The first eccentric 7a is coupled to a first coupling element IIa, which in turn is connected to the first flap 2a via a first joint 12a. In the first embodiment shown, the first coupling element IIa is designed as a rigid, circular arc-shaped coupling lever. While one end of the first coupling element IIa is pivotally connected to the first flap 2a via the first joint 12a, which is arranged on one of the stiffening ribs 4, the other end of the first coupling element IIa is connected via an additional joint 13a to an end section of the first eccentric 7a articulated.

At the same position along the axis of rotation D, at which the first eccentric 7a is arranged on the shaft 5, a second eccentric 7b is also provided. In a manner similar to that of the first eccentric 7a, the second eccentric 7b is coupled to a second coupling element IIb, which is likewise of a rigid and circular arcuate design. The second coupling element IIb is connected to the second flap 2b at one end section via a second joint 12b, which is arranged on the reinforcing rib 4 extending on the inside 3b of the second flap 2b. Another end portion of the second coupling element IIb is hingedly connected via an additional joint 13b to an end portion of the second eccentric 7b.

The first flap 2a is pivotable about a first pivot axis 14a, while the second flap 2b is pivotable about a second pivot axis 14b. The first and second pivot axes 14a, 14b are substantially parallel to each other and substantially parallel to the axis of rotation D. In the illustrated first embodiment of the invention, the pivot axes 14a and 14b are parallel to each other, but do not match each other. In an alternative embodiment, however, the pivot axes 14a and 14b can also be arranged such that they lie on one another and the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b are thus pivotable about a common pivot axis 14 ', as indicated by broken lines in FIG. 1A. By oppositely pivoting the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b about the first pivot axis 14a and the second pivot axis 14b, the flaps 2a, 2b can be transferred from the closed position shown in Figure 1 in the open position shown in Figure 3. An intermediate state is shown in FIG. 2. While the first flap 2a releases a first flow channel 15a in its open position, the first flow channel 15a is substantially closed by the first flap 2a in the closed state of the first flap 2a in FIG. The flow through the first flow channel 15a is indicated in FIG. 3 for the opened first flap 2a by the arrows with the reference numeral 16.

While the first flap 2a rotates downward when pivoted about the pivot axis 14a from the closed to the opened state in the first embodiment, the second flap 2b pivots upward about the second one

Pivot axis 14b and thereby releases a second flow channel 15b. In the closed position of the second flap 2b, however, the second flap 2b substantially closes the second flow channel 15b.

To open the first and second flaps 2 a, 2 b starting from the closed position of FIG. 1, the shaft 5 is set into a rotary movement 17 about the axis of rotation D by means of the actuator 6, see FIG. 2A. The rotational movement 17 of the shaft 5 causes a pivoting movement of the first eccentric 7a and the second eccentric 7b. In this case, the first eccentric 7a, the first coupling element IIa and a section 21a of the first flap 2a extending between the first joint 12a and the first pivot axis 14a move in the manner of a four-bar mechanism, whereby the first flap 2a pivots about the first pivot axis 14a. A first angle 22a, which includes the first coupling element IIa with the first eccentric 7a, decreases in the pivoting of the first flap 2a from the closed position to the open position of the first flap 2a, and when pivoting in the opposite direction from the open in the closed position to. At the same time, during a rotational movement 17 of the shaft 5, the second eccentric 7b, the second coupling element IIb and a second link 12b extending between the second pivot 12b and the second pivot axis 14b move

Section 21b of the second flap 2b also in the manner of a four-bar mechanism and thereby cause a pivoting of the second flap 2b. A second angle 22b, which the second coupling element IIb encloses with the second eccentric 7b, decreases upon pivoting of the second flap 2b from the closed to the open position, while the second angle 22b during the pivoting of the second flap 2b from the opened position in the closed position increases. In order to bring the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b from the opened position of the flaps into their closed position, the shaft 5 is to be set in a rotational movement 18, which is opposite to the rotary movement 17.

Due to the articulated connection via the further joint 13b, the second coupling element IIb is pivotable about a third pivot axis 23b relative to the second eccentric 7b, while the first coupling element IIa by the articulated connection by means of the further joint 13a relative to the first eccentric 7a about a fourth pivot axis 23a is pivotable. Opposite the second flap 2b is the second head pelelement IIb by means of the second joint 12b pivotable about a fifth pivot axis 24b, while the first coupling element IIa relative to the first flap 2a by means of the first hinge 12a about a sixth pivot axis 24a is pivotable bar. In the first embodiment shown, the first angle 22a of a straight line 25a, which extends in a radial plane of the shaft 5 through the first joint 12a and by the projection of the fourth pivot axis 23a in this plane, and of a further straight line 26a, in the Radial plane of the shaft 5 through the projections of the axis of rotation D and the fourth pivot axis 23 a extends, including, as indicated in Figures 1A and 2A. Similarly, the second angle 22b of a straight line 25b, which passes through the second joint 12b and by the projection of the third pivot axis 23b in a radial plane of the shaft 5, and by a further straight line 26b, in the radial plane of the shaft 5 by the projections of the rotation axis D and the third pivot axis 23b are included. The definition of the second angle 22b is also indicated in FIGS. 1A and 2A. FIG. 1A additionally shows two radial directions R1 and R2, which, at another position along the axis of rotation D, for example, span a radial plane of the shaft 5. While Figures 1 to 3 show the opening of the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b by turning the shaft 5 in the direction 17, in Figures 4, 5 and 6 the opposite action, namely the transfer of the flaps from the open into their closed position, shown. FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 show an overall view of the air flap arrangement according to the first exemplary embodiment, two additional flaps 2c and 2d designed in the same way being provided in addition to the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b. As Figure 5 shows, the shaft 5 extends downstream along both the first and second Flaps 2a, 2b and along the other flaps 2c, 2d. The pivoting of the further flaps 2c and 2d is effected in the same way as the pivoting of the first and second flaps 2a, 2b. For this purpose, further eccentric 7c and 7d and further coupling elements 11c and lld are provided. Thus, advantageously, a whole series of longitudinally juxtaposed flaps can be actuated by means of a single shaft 5. For this purpose, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the shaft 5 can be rotatably supported in a middle bearing 19 between the pairs of flaps.

In order to close the flaps 2 a to 2 d, the shaft 5 is set into a rotary motion 18 by means of the actuator 6. The inventively designed eccentric 7a to 7d cause in conjunction with the coupling elements IIa to Lld starting from the open state of Figure 4 at a constant rotational speed of the shaft 5 at the beginning of the closing process, a comparatively fast pivoting of the flaps, due to the arrangement of the eccentric 7a to 7d and the coupling elements IIa to Lld with increasing obstruction of the

Flow channels 15a to 15d, the pivoting of the flaps is increasingly slower. While the coupling elements IIa to lld conveyed via the eccentrics 7a to 7d exert only relatively small actuating forces on the flaps 2a to 2d at the beginning of the closing operation, the applicable actuating force increases with a fixed shaft torque with increasing degree of locking of the flow channels 15a to 15d. In other words, the farther the flow channels 15a to 15d are closed, the more actuating force can be applied to pivot the flaps 2a to 2d on them. At the same time, however, with increasing closing of the flow channels 15a to 15d, the air resistance of the flaps also increases. The increasing loads acting on the flaps, which are caused by the travel wind F, must be overcome when adjusting the flaps 2a to 2d. In the but according to the invention air damper arrangement also increases the applicable actuating force with increasing closure of the flow channels 15a to 15d. The adjusting mechanism formed with the shaft 5, the eccentrics 7a to 7d and the coupling elements IIa to lld is thus adapted in a favorable manner to the wind loads acting from outside on the flaps.

Furthermore, the flaps can be advantageously pressed in the closed position in any provided seals.

As FIGS. 3, 3A and 4 show, the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b in their open position preferably form a symmetrical, convex wing profile. In the area of a front edge 27 of the wing profile are the first

Pivot axis 14a and the second pivot axis 14b arranged. Downstream edge regions 28a and 28b of the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b are, when the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b respectively in the open position, to each other, whereby the wing profile ne a closed trailing edge 31 has. As clearly shown in particular FIGS. 2 and 5, when the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b are opened, the first eccentric 7a, the second eccentric 7b, the first coupling element IIa, the second coupling element IIb and at least a portion of the shaft 5 are interposed between the two Flaps 2a and 2b recorded. If, in the fully opened position of the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b, the edge regions 28a and 28b lie against one another, the eccentrics 7a, 7b, the coupling elements IIa, IIb and the section of the shaft 5 are received in an interior 32 of the airfoil. The adjusting mechanism formed by the eccentrics 7a, 7b and the coupling elements IIa, IIb for the flaps 2a, 2b is then safely protected from dirt and damage between the flaps 2a and 2b housed in the interior 32. In the state of Figures 3, 3A and 4, the (in these figures not visible) arcuately curved coupling elements IIa and IIb due to their shape around a portion of the circumference of the shaft 5 to save space and also also with little space at least partially approximately parallel to the inner sides 3a, 3b of the flaps 2a and 2b come to rest.

The harboring of the shaft, the eccentric 7a, 7b and the coupling elements IIa, IIb between the first and second flaps 2a and 2b is facilitated on the one hand by the curvature of the flaps 2a, 2b, in addition, the stiffening ribs 4 are provided with recesses 33 which in the opened position of the flaps 2a, 2b, the shaft 5 partially record. The first and second flaps 2a and 2b, and also the further flaps 2c and 2d, are curved in such a way that they form an aerodynamically favorable airfoil profile in their open position. The air flow 16, which passes through the flow channels 15a to 15d, the open flaps 2a to 2d thus flow around with little resistance and without significant separation phenomena. For this purpose, the front edge 27 is rounded, while the trailing edge 31 of the airfoil profile tapers. A second embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 7 to 15. As in the first embodiment of the damper assembly, a frame 1 is provided. Within the frame 1, a first flap 2a and a second flap 2b is arranged. FIG. 7 shows the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b in their closed position. Also in the second embodiment of the air flap assembly according to the invention, the first and second flaps 2a, 2b are a first and a second

Swivel axis 14a, 14b mounted pivotably. In the second embodiment, however, fall the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis 14a, 14b together and are referred to below by the reference numeral 14 '. Again, downstream of the flaps 2a, 2b, a shaft 5 is provided which, as in the first embodiment of the invention, is rotatable about a rotation axis D which extends substantially parallel to the pivot axis 14 '.

The air flap arrangement according to the second exemplary embodiment, however, initially differs from the arrangement according to the first exemplary embodiment in that the coupling elements IIa and IIb are not formed as rigid elements in the second embodiment, but rather that the first coupling element IIa and the second coupling element IIb respectively forming a portion of a single wire-form spring 34. The ends of the coupling elements IIa and IIb and thus the ends of the wire-forming spring 34 are bent and respectively through an opening in a first nose 35a on an inner side 3a of the first flap 2a and in an opening in a second nose 35b on an inner side 3b of the second Flap 2b introduced and thereby form first and second joints 12a and 12b. The first joint 12a permits a pivoting of the coupling element IIa with respect to the first flap 2a about a sixth pivot axis 24a, while the second pivot 12b permits a pivoting of the second coupling element IIb about a fifth pivot axis 24b. Also in the second embodiment, a first eccentric 7a and a second eccentric 7b are provided, which are rotatably connected to the shaft 5. The eccentrics 7a, 7b are provided with mandrels 36a, 36b, which extend substantially in the direction of the axis of rotation D. The mandrels 36a, 36b are used to couple the first coupling element IIa with the first eccentric 7a or the coupling of the second coupling element IIb with the second eccentric 7b. In order to achieve this coupling, the wire-forming spring 34 is wound around the winding mandrels 36a and 36b in each case. By elastic deformation of the wire Shape spring 34 are thus the coupling elements IIa, IIb relative to the associated eccentric 7a and 7b about a fourth pivot axis 23a and a third pivot axis 23b

pivotable. The pivot axes 23a, 23b, 24a, 24b extend both in the second, as well as in the first embodiment of the invention described above, preferably substantially parallel to the axis of rotation D and the pivot axes 14 'and 14a, 14b. FIGS. 7 and 7A further show that the first flap 2 a and the second flap 2 b according to the second exemplary embodiment have no stiffening ribs on their inner sides 3 a and 3 b, respectively. Instead, each of the flaps 2a, 2b in the region of the joints 12a, 12b is provided with a bulge 37 extending in the transverse direction of the respective flap. Viewed from the inner sides 3a, 3b, the bulges 37 form recesses. At the bottom of the respective recess, the lugs 35a, 35b are arranged with the joints 12a, 12b. FIGS. 8 and 9 show how an outside of the flap has a fin-like elevation due to the bulge 37.

The pivoting of the flaps 2a and 2b takes place in the second embodiment of the invention, as explained for the first embodiment, by a rotary movement 17 of the shaft 5 for opening and a rotary movement 18 of the shaft 5 for closing the flaps 2a, 2b. As with the first embodiment, upon pivoting the first flap 2a from the open to the closed position, a first angle 22a, which the first coupling element IIa encloses with the first eccentric 7a, increases. During the pivoting of the second flap 2b from the open to the closed position, a second angle 22b, which the second coupling element IIb engages with the second eccentric 7b, also assumes a second angle 22b. closes, too. The angles 22a and 22b are indicated in FIGS. 12, 14 and 15.

It can also be seen from the sectional views of FIGS. 12 to 15 that the eccentrics 7a and 7b are provided with a first friction nose 41a and a second friction nose 41b, respectively. Upon rotation of the shaft 5 in the direction 18 for closing the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b, the friction nose 41a slides on the inside 3a of the first flap 2a, while the friction nose 41b slides on the inside 3b of the second flap 2b. The Reibnasen 41a, 41b are intended to facilitate the beginning of the closing operation in that they exert pressure on the respective inner side 3a and 3b of the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b upon initial rotation of the shaft 5 in the direction 18. If the first and second flaps 2 a and 2 b are then pivoted about the pivot axis 14 'by a certain angle, then the friction cams 41 a and 41 b are lifted off the inner sides 3 a and 3 b, and the further pivoting movement now becomes exclusively via the eccentrics 7 a , 7b and the associated coupling elements IIa and IIb accomplished.

By forming the coupling elements IIa and IIb as sections of a single wire-form spring 34, the number of required components is reduced in the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, and the assembly of the air flap arrangement is further simplified. The joints 12a, 12b are in the second embodiment of the invention by the use of the wire form spring 34 is particularly robust and insensitive to dirt. In addition, the wire-forming spring 34 allows the pivoting movement of the first and second flaps 2 a and 2 b to be such that either when opening or closing the flaps 2 a, 2 b, a torque generated by the wire-forming spring 34 has to be overcome, and the Wire form spring 34 thus either when closing or opening the flaps 2a, 2b relaxed and contributes a torque.

From the sectional view of Figure 12 also shows that the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b in the open state also form an aerodynamically favorable airfoil profile with a rounded front edge 27 and a tapered trailing edge 31. The sectional views of FIGS. 12 to 15 illustrate the air flap arrangement in a section A - A through the bulge 37.

FIG. 12 shows that the bulge 37 provides space for accommodating the friction lugs 41a, 41b, the lugs 35a, 35b with the first and second joints 12a and 12b, the coupling elements IIa, IIb and the eccentrics 7a, 7b and the shaft 5. By providing the bulge 37 on both the first flap 2a and the second flap 2b, the airfoil profile formed in the closed state of the flaps 2a, 2b can be made slender in regions away from the bulge 37, as shown in FIG even less air resistance.

In the case of the second exemplary embodiment, a film element 42 is also provided on the front edge 27, which in this exemplary embodiment is preferably integrally formed with the flaps 2 a, 2 b and creates a dense front edge 27. During the pivoting movement of the flaps 2 a and 2 b, the film element 42 deforms elastically. Also, in the first embodiment of the invention, such a film element 42 may be provided.

In the fully closed position of the first and second flaps 2 a, 2 b, edge regions 28 a, 28 b of the flaps 2 a, 2 b are in sealing contact with inner walls 43 a, 43 b of the frame 1. For this purpose, on the inner walls 43a, 43b or alternatively in the edge regions 28a, 28b of the first and second flaps 2a, 2b may be provided a sealing element (not shown), for example in the form of an element made of a soft plastic. Both in the first and in the second embodiment of the invention, the flaps and the eccentric and the shaft can be made of a suitable plastic. The coupling elements of the first exemplary embodiment can also be produced from a plastic, while preferably a metal material is used for the wire form spring 34 of the second exemplary embodiment.

While the Reibnasen 41a, 41b have been described above with respect to the second embodiment, such Reibnasen can also be advantageously provided in the configuration of the coupling elements according to the first embodiment of the invention.

Although the present invention has been fully described above by means of preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but may be modified in a variety of manners.

Thus, it is conceivable, in particular, to arrange a plurality of pairs of flaps which can be pivoted relative to one another in a frame over one another and to actuate each flap pair by means of a shaft, as described above. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 frame

2a first flap

2b second flap

2c more flap

2d more flap

3a inside (first flap)

3b inside (second flap)

4 stiffening rib (flap)

5 wave

6 actuator

7a first eccentric

7b second eccentric

7c further eccentric

7d further eccentric

IIa first coupling element

IIb second coupling element

11c further coupling element

lld further coupling element

12a first joint

12b second joint

13a another joint

13b another joint

14a first pivot axis

14b second pivot axis

14 'common pivot axis

15a first flow channel

15b second flow channel

15c further flow channel

15d further flow channel

16 flow direction

17 Turning movement (opening the flaps) 18 Turning movement (closing the flaps) 19 middle camp

21a section (first flap)

21b section (second flap) 22a first angle

22b second angle

23a fourth pivot axis

23b third pivot axis

24a sixth pivot axis

24b fifth pivot axis

25a straight

25b straight

26a more straight

26b further straight

27 leading edge

28a edge area (first flap) 28b edge area (second flap)

31 trailing edge

32 interior

33 recess (stiffening rib)

34 wire form spring

35a first nose

35b second nose

36a mandrel (first eccentric)

36b mandrel (second eccentric) 37 bulge (flap)

41a first Reibnase

41b second friction nose

42 movie element

43a inner wall (frame)

43b Inner wall (frame) D Rotary axis (shaft) wind

radial directions

Claims

PATEN CLAIMS

An air damper arrangement, in particular for regulating the inflow of air to a radiator of a motor vehicle, having a first flow channel (15a), having a first flap (2a) which is pivotable about a first pivot axis (14a) between an open position and a closed position Position is pivotable, with a rotatable shaft (5) having a first eccentric (7a), with a first coupling element (IIa), which with the first eccentric (7a) coupled and via a first joint (12a) with the first flap (2a), wherein the first eccentric (7a), the first coupling element (IIa) and a between the first joint (12a) and the first pivot axis (14a) extending portion (21a) of the first flap (2a) by a Rotary movement of the shaft (5) as a four-bar linkage for pivoting the first flap (2a) are movable such that a first angle (22a), which includes the first coupling element (IIa) with the first eccentric (7a) in the pivoting the first flap (2a) increases from the open to the closed position.

2. Arrangement according to claim 1,

characterized ,

in that the rotatable shaft (5) is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation (D) which runs essentially parallel to the first pivot axis (14a).

3. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized ,

in that a second flow channel (15b) is provided, that a second flap (2b) is provided, which about a second pivot axis (14b) opposite to the first flap (2a) between an open position, in which the second flap (2b) second flow channel (15b) releases, and a closed position in which the second flap (2b) the second flow channel (15b) substantially closes, is pivotable,

in that the shaft (5) has a second eccentric (7b), and in that a second coupling element (IIb) is provided, which is coupled to the second eccentric (7b) and connected to the second flap (2b) via a second joint (12b) is, wherein the second eccentric (7b), the second coupling element (IIb) and a between the second joint (12b) and the second pivot axis (14b) extending portion (21b) of the second flap (2b) by a rotational movement of the shaft ( 5) as a four-bar linkage for pivoting the second flap (2b) are movable such that a second angle (22b), which includes the second coupling element (IIb) with the second eccentric (7b) in the pivoting of the second flap (2b) the open to the closed position increases.

4. Arrangement according to claim 3,

characterized ,

in that the first (14a) and second (14b) pivot axes extend parallel to one another and, in particular, coincide with one another.

5. Arrangement according to claim 3 or 4,

characterized ,

the first (2a) and second (2b) flap form a closed wing profile, in particular a convex symmetrical wing profile, when the first (2a) and the second (2b) form the second wing (2b) are each flap in the open position, and that in this state, the first (14a) and second (14b) pivot axis in the region of a leading edge (27) of the airfoil are arranged.

6. Arrangement according to claim 5,

characterized ,

the downstream edge regions (28a, 28b) of the first (2a) and second (2b) flaps lie on top of each other such that the airfoil has a closed trailing edge (31) when the first (2a) and second (2b) flaps respectively in the are in the open position.

7. Arrangement according to claim 5 or 6,

characterized ,

in that the first (7a) and second (7b) eccentric, the first (IIa) and second (IIb) coupling element and at least a portion of the shaft (5) are received in an interior space (32) of the airfoil when the first (2a ) and second (2b) flap are each in the open position.

8. Arrangement according to one of claims 3 to 7,

characterized ,

in that the second coupling element (IIb) is pivotable relative to the second eccentric (7b) about a third pivot axis (23b) and that the second angle (22b) of a straight line (25b) through the second joint (12b) and the projection of the third pivot axis (23b) is enclosed in a radial plane of the shaft (5) on the one hand and by a further straight line (26b) through the projections of the rotation axis (D) and the third pivot axis (23b) in the radial plane on the other hand.

9. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in that the first coupling element (IIa) is pivotable relative to the first eccentric (7a) about a fourth pivot axis (23a) and that the first angle (22a) of a straight line (25a) through the first joint (12a) and the projection of the fourth pivot axis (23a) is enclosed in a radial plane of the shaft (5) on the one hand and by a further straight line (26a) through the projections of the rotation axis (D) and the fourth pivot axis (23a) in the radial plane on the other hand.

10. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

the first coupling element (IIa) extends in the open position of the first flap (2a) substantially parallel to the first flap (2a) and / or that the second coupling element (IIb) is in the open position of the second flap (2b) extends substantially parallel to the second flap (2b).

11. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

in that the first (IIa) and / or second (IIb) coupling element are rigid and articulated to the first (7a) and the second (7b) eccentric, respectively.

12. Arrangement according to claim 11,

characterized ,

in that the first (IIa) and / or second (IIb) coupling element are each designed as a curved, in particular arcuate, coupling lever / is.

13. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 10,

characterized ,

the first coupling element (IIa) is designed as a first section of a wire-forming spring (34) and / or that the second coupling element (IIb) is formed as a second portion of a wire-forming spring (34).

14. Arrangement according to claim 13,

characterized ,

in that the first (IIa) and second (IIb) coupling elements form end-side sections of the same wire-forming spring (34).

15. Arrangement according to claim 13 or 14,

characterized ,

in that in each case a winding mandrel (36a, 36b) is / are formed on the first (7a) and / or the second (7b) eccentric, and that in each case a third or a fourth section of the wire form spring (34) is arranged around the winding mandrel (36a, 36b) ) is wrapped around.

16. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

in that the first joint (12a) is arranged on an inner side (3a) of the first flap (2a) facing away from the flow in the closed position of the first flap (2a) and / or in that the second joint (12b) is in a closed position the second flap (2b) facing away from the flow on the inside (3b) of the second flap (2b) is arranged.

17. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized

in that the first flap (2a) has a first stiffening rib (4) and the first joint (12a) is arranged on the first stiffening rib (4) and / or that the second flap (2b) has a second stiffening rib (4) and the second one Joint (12 b) on the second stiffening rib (4) is arranged.

18. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that

in that the first flap (2a) has a first protrusion (37) projecting on an outside of the first flap (2a) facing the flow in the closed position of the first flap (2a) and the first hinge (12a) within the first protrusion (37) is arranged and / or that the second flap (2b) on one in the closed position of the second flap (2b) facing the outer side of the second flap (2b) projecting second bulge (37) and the second Joint (12b) within the second bulge (37) is arranged.