Flap unit for covering opening of vehicle and vehicle having flap unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a flap unit (10) for covering an opening (81), in particular a loading opening or a tank opening, of a vehicle, the flap unit (10) comprising at least one frame (20), a flap (30) movably arranged on the frame (20), and an actuating device (40) for actuating the flap (30). The invention also relates to a vehicle having at least one opening (81), in particular a loading opening or a tank opening, and a flap unit (10) for covering the opening (81).

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a flap unit for covering an opening of a vehicle, in particular a loading opening or a fuel tank opening, and a vehicle having at least one vehicle exterior structure and a flap unit for covering an opening in the vehicle exterior structure, in particular a loading opening and / or a fuel tank opening. Background Art

[0002] In a vehicle, openings in the body, such as loading openings and / or fuel tank openings, are closed by a baffle or a flap to prevent contamination and abuse. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide an improved flap unit for covering an opening of a vehicle as compared with the prior art, which is in particular simple in structure and easy to operate, and to provide an improved vehicle having such a flap unit.

[0004] According to the present invention, the object regarding the flap unit is achieved by the features according to claim 1. According to the present invention, the object regarding the vehicle is achieved by the features according to claim 13.

[0005] According to the present invention, this object is achieved by a flap unit including at least one movable baffle and an actuating device coupled to the baffle for actuating the opening and closing of the baffle, wherein the actuating device is arranged to detect a manual actuation on the baffle and to adjust the baffle, in particular electrically, wherein the actuating device includes at least one transmission element rotatably drivable by applying pressure on the baffle and a sensor element operatively connected to the transmission element and arranged, for example, in and / or on the transmission element, and wherein the sensor element is arranged to detect a rotational movement of the transmission element.

[0006] The flap unit may include at least one frame and a baffle movably arranged on the frame.

[0007] The sensor element is particularly configured as a non-contact sensor. The sensor element is configured without a switch.

[0008] The sensor element (also simply referred to as a sensor) is preferably integrated, in particular arranged in the region of the actuating device, in particular in the region of the actuator of the drive unit and / or in the region of the transmission of the actuating device. For example, when the baffle is in the closed position, the transmission may be self-locking. In this case, in particular due to tolerances and / or compliance of materials and / or components, the self-locking transmission may be arranged in such a way that when a knock or a press occurs on the baffle, a slight movement can be detected or detected by the sensor element. Optionally, the transmission may also be designed as a non-self-locking transmission.

[0009] Optionally, a tilting spring can be provided for the hinge of the baffle, which keeps the hinge open in the open position and closed in the closed position, especially on a soft buffer. Then, whether in the open position or the closed position, manually pressing or tapping the baffle can apply a slight movement detected by the sensor element.

[0010] In this case, when the baffle is in the closed position, the transmission is under mechanical stress in the opening direction. Mechanical stress also occurs when the baffle moves in the closing direction, especially relative to the seal. In particular, in the closed position, the transmission can have a clearance, especially between the tooth flanks of two gears. If the baffle is now manually pressed to open it, the clearance in the transmission can be used to identify and detect the movement, and thus the actuation request can be identified and detected by the sensor element. The sensor element can be particularly arranged to detect a rotational movement with a predetermined resolution. In this case, the resolution is selected or preset to be so large (minimum resolution) that the sensor element reliably detects such actuation of the baffle and the corresponding actuation request. Since the sensor element designed as a microswitch can only receive the actuation signal locally, the actuation coverage of the hole surface (also called the design surface) is very high. The baffle can be pressed at any position.

[0011] The sensor element can be arranged to determine / detect at least one opening request and / or closing request based on the detected rotational movement of the transmission element. The sensor element can be arranged to detect at least one speed of the actuation device, especially the adjustment speed. The sensor element can be arranged to detect at least one position of the transmission element and / or the position of the actuation device, especially the position of the driven shaft. This reduces the tolerance regarding the position of the baffle, especially the loading flap.

[0012] The advantages achieved by the present invention particularly lie in that the opening actuation of the baffle (such as the loading flap) can be triggered with a defined force and a small actuation stroke, especially without the need for a separate switch module or sensor module. In this case, the actuation device can be configured as a so-called "Tip-to-Run" device. The actuation device can be arranged to trigger and / or start the electric adjustment of the baffle by manual initial actuation, especially pressure actuation or applying pressure on the baffle. The baffle can be pressed at any position, so that the flap is pressed to open or close automatically. The flap unit can be designed according to safety and / or environmental conditions so that the baffle can approach the protection position. For example, if an obstacle is detected at the opening, the movement of the baffle can be stopped so that the baffle is retracted a predetermined distance and / or angle, especially retracted to the protection position.

[0013] The actuating device can be configured, for example, as a combined manually actuable actuating unit and an electrically operable regulating device or regulating unit. The actuating device can be configured as a pre-assembled component. The actuating device is provided to perform the automatic opening function and the closing function of the loading flap. The opening request and the closing request can be detected by or by sensors located in the actuating device.

[0014] In particular, the sensor or sensor element can be integrated, in particular arranged, in the transmission of the actuating device and / or the actuator, so that in the case of applying pressure to the baffle, for example, tapping and / or slightly pressing on the baffle, the automatic opening function and / or the closing function are triggered according to the position of the baffle. In this case, the sensor element can, for example, detect the position, in particular the position change, of the actuating device, the actuator, in particular the driven shaft, so as to detect the position change of the baffle in order to trigger the appropriate function. By integrating the sensor element into the actuating device and / or into / onto the actuator, additional component groups can be dispensed with. This reduces costs, assembly time and installation space.

[0015] For example, the sensor element can be directly or indirectly connected to the transmission element. The sensor element can be, for example, an angle sensor, in particular a magnetic angle sensor. The transmission element can be a gear. Optionally, the transmission element can be a transmission output element. The magnet of the sensor element can be fixedly connected to the transmission element. The magnet can be arranged on a separate component that is driven to rotate by frictional engagement and / or form fit by the gearbox. The magnet can also be movably supported. The magnet is particularly configured as a permanent magnet. The sensor for detecting the changing magnetic field of the magnet is fixedly arranged, for example, on a fixed component, in particular on the housing, on the control electronics, on the circuit board, etc.

[0016] Since the sensor element is directly integrated into the transmission, additional components, such as those for fixing and / or holding a separate sensor assembly, can be omitted. There is no need to integrate additional components and modules, which can reduce costs, parts, assembly effort and installation space. The sensor element can be provided to perform several functions.

[0017] The actuating device may include at least one control electronic device for controlling the opening function and the closing function of the baffle when rotation of a transmission element caused by manually applied pressure is detected. A sensor element may be arranged to detect a knock and / or a press on the baffle and to provide a corresponding signal to the control electronic device. The control electronic device may be arranged to control and trigger the actuating device, in particular the drive unit, based on the provided signal. If the sensor element detects a position change, in particular rotation of a driven shaft, due to pressure applied to the baffle in the closed position (= pressure acting on the baffle or flap), an opening signal is sent to the control electronic device, for example. If the sensor element detects a position change, in particular rotation of a driven shaft, due to pressure or tensile force applied to the baffle in the open position (= pressure or tensile force acting on the baffle or flap), a closing signal is sent to the control electronic device, for example.

[0018] By means of the baffle or cover, slight pressure actuation, in particular slight strokes, can already be introduced in order to generate rotation of the transmission element in the transmission of the actuating device.

[0019] The actuating device may include at least one sensor element arranged in and / or on the first transmission element. The sensor element is arranged to detect at least one speed of the actuating device, to detect the position of the transmission element and / or to determine or detect an opening request based on these detected values.

[0020] The actuating device may include at least one driven element operatively connected to the baffle and rotatable about a rotation axis. When pressure is manually applied to the baffle, the driven element may move in a first rotation direction for opening the baffle or in a second rotation direction for closing the opened baffle. The transmission of the actuating device is connected between the adjusting device and the drive unit. The drive unit may include at least one drive element, such as a drive shaft, a pin, a nut or a similar element. A drive element from the motion mechanism of the baffle or flap, such as a nut or a bracket of a shaft, may be coupled to the transmission by means of a plurality of transmission components, such as including at least one worm or pinion, another drive element (such as a drive wheel) and a driven element (such as a driven wheel). The transmission element according to the invention does not have to be an active component of the transmission. The transmission element may only be configured as a sensor carrier and may be operatively connected to the transmission, for example to a driven element of the transmission. Optionally, the transmission element may be an active component of the transmission and transmit a driven movement. In this case, the transmission element itself may form the driven element.

[0021] The actuating device may include at least one transmission coupled to the flap, and the transmission may be activated and driven by manually actuating pressure on the flap. The transmission may be manually driven by the flap or electrically driven by a drive unit. When manually actuated, the transmission is not self-locking. If a clutch is part of the transmission and one or more transmission stages upstream of the clutch are not self-locking, the non-self-locking transmission may rotate.

[0022] The transmission element may be configured as a separately constructed magnet holder having gears and sensor sockets, and may be rotated or moved together with the driven element by the driven element. Here, the transmission element may be a passive component of the actuating device. The transmission element may be actively coupled to the transmission.

[0023] For example, the transmission element may be of one-piece construction and may include at least one magnet socket or magnet surface. The transmission element may have a segmented tooth portion.

[0024] The sensor element, in particular an angle sensor, a magnet sensor or a similar sensor, is arranged at a fixed position. For example, the sensor element may be arranged on the stationary side or surface of the transmission element opposite the tooth portion or the rotating surface. Sensor sockets may be provided, for example, in the form of grooves and / or slots. The sensor sockets may be arranged and fixed, for example, on the electronic unit, and / or on / in the housing, or on / in a fixed part of the flap unit opposite the rotating transmission element.

[0025] The sensor element may be at least partially received in the sensor socket. The sensor element may be at least partially received in the sensor socket, for example, in a form-fitting manner.

[0026] Optionally, the transmission element may form a driven element for the actuating device, in particular for the transmission. Here, the transmission element may be an active component of the transmission. The transmission element shown / constructed as a driven element here may be arranged to perform an actuating movement on the one hand when manually actuating pressure on the flap and to perform an adjusting movement on the other hand when the drive unit is activated.

[0027] The magnet of the sensor element may be fixed in and / or on a nut or similar component of the rotating shaft of the driven element, or fixed on a separate rotating element with a greater transmission ratio to achieve a full resolution of 360°. In particular, the magnet may be fixed to the rotating shaft of the transmission element serving as the driven element, especially in or on the magnet holder.

[0028] In particular, the actuating device can be directly coupled to the baffle and can be configured as, for example, a pressure actuating device. The actuating device can include a so-called Push-To-Run mechanism or a Tip-To-Run mechanism and is coupled to a locking mechanism. Conventional Push-Push mechanisms or only Push mechanisms are known, which transfer the baffle from the closed position (e.g., the sunken position) to the open position by simply pushing the baffle into the open position, where the loading opening or the fuel tank opening can be accessed. However, such Push-Push mechanisms require a large number of mechanical operating components, which in turn require a relatively large installation space. With the Push-To-Run actuating device, the controlled opening actuation and closing actuation can be triggered by simply and easily pressing the baffle, whereby the baffle can move to the open position spontaneously (e.g., automatically), for example pivot, by means of a transmission element. In this case, the speed and / or the absolute position or position change of the transmission device and thus of the baffle can be additionally detected by means of a sensor element, and / or the opening request can be determined / detected therefrom.

[0029] The actuating device can be connected to an adjusting device for adjusting, i.e., moving, the baffle. For example, the transmission element can be operatively connected to at least one adjusting element, such as a pivoting element and / or a sliding element and / or a lever element, for adjusting the baffle.

[0030] In one embodiment, the actuating device includes at least one drive unit, a transmission coupled to the drive unit, and an adjusting device coupled to the transmission and the baffle. In terms of drive technology, the transmission can be connected between the drive unit (e.g., a drive motor) and the adjusting device and thus between the baffles. The drive movement of the drive unit can be transmitted to the adjusting device via the transmission and thus to the baffle.

[0031] The adjusting device can include at least one hinge arm, which on the one hand, in particular at the first end, is connected to the baffle and on the other hand, in particular at the second end, is arranged on the rotation axis of the driven element. The hinge arm can be pivotally supported on the rotation axis. The pressure applied to the baffle is transmitted to the driven element, in particular its rotation axis, via the hinge arm. By the rotation of the rotation axis, the baffle can be moved from the closed position to the open position and vice versa. The driven element is rotationally driven by the hinge arm. The movement, in particular the rotation, of the driven element and the rotation axis can be detected by a sensor element, wherein the magnet of the sensor element configured as an angle sensor is fixed in the rotation axis and / or fixed on the rotation axis, fixed on the driven element and / or fixed in the driven element and / or fixed on a separate transmission element operatively connected to the driven element, in particular in a tooth engagement. In an improved embodiment, the transmission of the actuating device can also include a plurality of sensor elements and / or magnets. Optionally, the sensor element can be a rotary encoder.

[0032] By means of an actuating device, the triggering function of the flap unit, in particular the opening function and / or the closing function, can be triggered. The flap unit can include a baffle that opens and / or closes automatically. The opening function and / or the closing function can be detected by a sensor element located on the transmission element.

[0033] The actuating device can form an actuator. The actuating device requires only a small installation space and can be integrated on and / or in the frame. The actuating device can include a two-stage transmission, for example with a transmission ratio of 150:1. The drive can occur directly on the hinge arm shaft of the transmission. The actuating device can be provided with an overload coupler.

[0034] The actuating device can include at least one drive unit, such as a DC motor, for the electric adjustment of the baffle.

[0035] The hook element can be arranged on the opposite side of the drive to improve the triggering function, because the fixed support of the drive allows better transmission into the transmission. In addition, the triggering area on the baffle is enlarged thereby.

[0036] The actuating device can include at least one housing that is integrally formed with the frame of the flap unit, for example in a monolithic or one-piece construction. The transmission unit and the drive unit can be pre-assembled in the housing. Thus, it is possible to avoid installing additional separate components after assembling the flap unit to the vehicle.

[0037] The present invention also relates to a vehicle that includes at least one opening, in particular a loading opening or a fuel tank opening, and a flap unit for covering the opening. Description of the Drawings

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Among them:

[0039] Figure 1 A perspective rear view of a flap unit for covering an opening of a vehicle according to the present invention is schematically shown;

[0040] Figure 2 A perspective view of an actuating device for opening the flap unit actuated according to Figure 1 is schematically shown;

[0041] Figure 3 A perspective view of a housing portion of an actuating device according to a first embodiment is schematically shown;

[0042] Figure 4 A perspective view of the actuating device is schematically shown;

[0043] Figure 5 A perspective front view of the actuating device actuated according to Figure 4 is schematically shown;

[0044] Figure 6 A perspective view of a flap unit with an actuating device according to another embodiment is schematically shown;

[0045] Figure 7 A perspective view of a vehicle body having an opening covered by a flap unit in the open position of the baffle is schematically shown; and

[0046] Figure 8 A perspective view of another embodiment having a sensor element integrated in a transmission, particularly arranged on a rotating shaft, is schematically shown.

[0047] The same components in all the figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0048] Figure 1 A perspective view of a flap unit 10 according to the present invention is schematically shown, which is used to cover an opening 81 not shown in more detail (as Figure 7 shown), such as a loading opening or a fuel tank opening of a vehicle not shown in more detail.

[0049] The flap unit 10 includes at least one frame 20 and a baffle 30. The baffle 30 is disposed within the circumferential region of the frame 20. The frame 20 includes a first frame opening 21 that can be closed by the baffle 30. The first frame opening 21 is defined, for example, by the circumferential region.

[0050] Figure 1 The baffle 30 in the closed position P1 is shown, where the baffle 30 is flush with the frame 20. The baffle 30 is used to cover the opening 81 of the vehicle (as Figure 7 shown). For example, the flap unit 10 can be correspondingly arranged and assembled in a socket (not shown in more detail) of the vehicle outer skin by means of the frame 20, such that the baffle 30 is flush with the frame 20 and flush with the vehicle outer skin.

[0051] The baffle 30 is a movable baffle 30 and is configured, for example, as a closing cover or a closing flap for a loading opening or a fuel tank opening. As shown, the frame 20 can be cup-shaped. The frame 20 can form a second frame opening 22 opposite to the baffle 30 and / or the first frame opening 21 for accommodating a loading interface or a fuel tank interface.

[0052] As shown, the baffle 30 can be disc-shaped. The baffle 30 can be arranged in such a way that it can be actuated and / or adjusted electrically or manually.

[0053] For example, at least one actuating device 40 is arranged on the frame 20 for actuating the opening and closing of the flap 30. The opening actuation can be triggered by activating the actuating device 40, for example by manually pressing the flap 30. The opening actuation can initiate the movement of the flap 30, for example a pivoting movement according to arrow D1.

[0054] The actuating device 40 includes at least one drive unit 70, a transmission 40a coupled to the drive unit 70, and an adjusting device 45 coupled to the transmission 40a and the flap 30 (shown in detail starting Figure 3 here). The actuating device 40 includes a housing 50 connected to the frame 20 for accommodating the drive unit 70, the transmission 40a and for guiding the adjusting device 45.

[0055] Figure 2 A perspective view of the actuating device 40 for opening actuation of the flap unit 10 according to Figure 1 is schematically shown.

[0056] The actuating device 40 includes a housing 50 which can be integrally formed with the frame 20 of the flap unit 10, in particular a one-piece construction. The first housing part 51 can be a cover element. The second housing part 52 which can be connected or is connected to the first housing part 51 can include Figure 3 a receiving space 53 for receiving the elements of the actuating device 40 shown in more detail in

[0057] The first housing part 51 includes an electrical interface 54 and an outwardly guided emergency release element 55, such as an emergency release lever.

[0058] The control electronics 60 of the actuating device 40 can be arranged on the inner side of the first housing part 51. The control electronics 60 can be encapsulated in the first housing part 51 by a suitable encapsulating material M. The control electronics 60 can be integrated in the housing 50 of the actuating device 40. The control electronics 60 can be connected to the vehicle's on-board electrical system (not shown in more detail).

[0059] For example, the opening function and / or the closing function of the flap unit 10 can be electrically controlled by the control electronics 60.

[0060] Figure 3 A perspective view of the second housing part 52 of the actuating device 40 according to the first embodiment is schematically shown. In particular, Figure 3 the second housing part 52 and the receiving space 53 are shown, where the first housing part 51, i.e. the cover element, is not shown.

[0061] The actuating device 40 includes at least one transmission element 41 that can be rotationally driven by manually applying pressure on the baffle 30 and a sensor element 43 operatively connected to the transmission element 41. The sensor element 43 is arranged to detect the rotational movement of the transmission element 41 and then trigger an opening function or a closing function according to the position of the baffle 30. The sensor element 43 is arranged to determine the position of the baffle 30 based on the position of the transmission device. The sensor element 43 can also determine the adjustment speed of the actuating device 40 according to the determined position of the transmission device. The sensor element 43 is, for example, a non-contact angle sensor 43a. The sensor element 43 includes, for example, a magnet 44 and a magnet sensor 49. The magnet 44 is fixedly connected to the transmission element 41.

[0062] The magnet sensor 49 of the sensor element 43 can be arranged on the inner side of the first housing part 51 and / or on the control electronics 60. The magnet sensor 49 can be a Hall sensor or another detection sensor suitable for determining the position of a magnetic field.

[0063] The sensor element 43 is non-contact. The sensor element 43 (also simply referred to as the sensor) is integrated in the area of the transmission device 40a and is formed by a movable magnet 44 by driving the transmission element 41 and moving the fixed magnet sensor 49. As Figure 2 shown, the transmission device 40a can be configured to be self-locking or have tolerances and / or material compliance and / or component compliance, especially in the closed position P1 of the baffle 30. Thus, in the closed position P1 of the baffle 30, the transmission device 40a is under mechanical stress in the opening direction. In this case, the transmission device 40a can have a clearance in the closed position P1. If the baffle 30 is now manually pressed to open it, the clearance in the transmission device 40a can be utilized to detect the movement, especially the rotational movement, caused by the clearance through the sensor element 43 and derive an actuation request therefrom. The sensor element 43 can be particularly arranged to detect the rotational movement with a resolution.

[0064] The actuating device 40 includes at least one drive unit 70, a transmission device 40a coupled to the drive unit 70, and an adjustment device 45 coupled to the transmission device 40a and the baffle 30. The adjustment device 45 includes at least one hinge arm 46 that is fixedly connected to the baffle 30 at one end and connected to the transmission device 40a at the other end and is pivotally supported. The pressure applied on the baffle 30 is transmitted to the transmission device 40a through the hinge arm 46. The transmission element 41 can be rotationally driven by the hinge arm 46.

[0065] The drive device 40a includes at least one driven element 47 operatively connected to the hinge arm 46 and rotatable about a rotation axis 48. When pressure is manually applied to the baffle 30 and thus the hinge arm 46 is pressed to close the baffle 30, the driven element 47 can move in a first rotation direction, as shown by arrow D2, or when pressure is manually applied to the baffle 30 to open the baffle 30, as shown by arrow D3, and vice versa. In the case of closing and driving / closing the baffle 30, the driven element 47 can move in the first rotation direction according to arrow D2 so as to pivot the hinge arm 46 from the open position P2 to the closed position P1. The drive device 40a of the actuating device 40 is connected between the adjusting device 45 and the drive unit 70.

[0066] The actuating device 40 for electric adjustment includes, for example, a drive unit 70 having at least one electric motor 71 and a drive shaft. The drive device 40a includes at least one worm 72 drivable by the drive shaft and a worm wheel 73 operatively connected to the worm 72, for example meshing, in particular snap meshing and / or tooth meshing. The worm wheel 73 is operatively connected to the driven element 47, in particular in a tooth meshing manner. The electric motor 71 can be a so-called DC motor. The drive device 40a is, for example, a two-stage drive device 40a.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive element 41 provided with the magnet 44 is configured as a sensor carrier, also referred to as a magnet holder, and is operatively connected to the drive device 40a, for example, the driven element 47 of the drive device 40a, for example in a tooth meshing manner. The hinge arm 46 is provided on the rotation axis 48 of the driven element 47. Through the movement transmitted by the hinge arm 46, the rotation axis 48 and thus the drive element 47 can move in the first rotation direction according to arrow D2. This results in a rotational movement of the drive element 41 and the magnet 44. In this case, it should be understood that even a small actuation stroke applied to the baffle 30 can trigger a rotational movement of the driven element 47, which can be detected by the sensor element 43.

[0068] Furthermore, the actuating device 40 includes at least one emergency release device, wherein an emergency release element 55 is provided on the worm wheel 73. The emergency release element 55 can be, for example, an emergency release lever that is accessible from the outside and can be actuated by the user. By actuating, for example, pulling, rotating and / or pressing the emergency release element 55, the worm wheel 73 can be manually actuated to adjust the baffle 30.

[0069] Figure 4 A perspective view of the actuating device 40 is schematically shown.

[0070] The flap unit 10 has a particularly reduced construction and only requires little installation space, especially transversely and longitudinally in the vehicle. In this case, the flap unit 10 is particularly compact and relatively narrow in terms of its width. The flap unit 10 can be formed from simple, inexpensive and space-saving components.

[0071] The actuating device 40 includes at least one transmission 40a having a first transmission element 41 that can be rotationally driven by actuating pressure on the baffle 30 and a second transmission element 42 operatively connected to the first transmission element 41, for example in engagement, in particular snap engagement or toothed engagement.

[0072] The worm wheel 73 can be a drive element, such as a drive wheel. The first transmission element 41 can be a gear 41a or a pinion. Here, the first transmission element 41 is a gear 41a with a magnet holder for the magnet 44. A fixed sensor socket 41b can be provided opposite and at a distance from the magnet 44.

[0073] The second transmission element 42 can be a driven element 47, such as a driven wheel. The second transmission element 42 can be a gear 42a.

[0074] The actuating device 40 can be activated by introducing a small stroke, in particular an actuating stroke, at the baffle 30, which is introduced via the baffle 30, in particular in the form of a cover, and which generates a rotation of the second transmission element 42 in the transmission 40a.

[0075] Figure 5 Schematically shown is a perspective front view of the actuating device 40 according to Figure 4 of.

[0076] The rotation of the second transmission element 42 causes the rotation of the first transmission element 41 and thus the rotation of the magnet 44. The first transmission element 41 is equipped with a sensor element 43 in order to adjust at least one speed of the actuating device 40, in particular the transmission 40a, to detect a position, such as an absolute position, and / or to detect an opening request.

[0077] The sensor element 43 can be, for example, an angle sensor 43a, in particular a magnetic angle sensor 43a. For example, the magnet 44 for the magnetic sensor element 43, in particular the angle sensor 43a, can be arranged, in particular fixed, to the end face of the first transmission element 41. The first transmission element 41 is configured to set an absolute position. The adjusting device 45 can be coupled via the second transmission element 42 for adjusting, in particular moving, the baffle 30. The rotationally driven second transmission element 42 causes the rotationally driven first transmission element 41 and the adjusting device 45.

[0078] The first transmission element 41 includes a gear 41a and a magnet holding surface for the magnet 44 in the first part. A sensor socket 41b for receiving the sensor element 43 is provided opposite the first part of the gear 41a. For example, the sensor element 43 can be arranged in the sensor socket 41b. The gear 41a and the magnet holding surface / magnet 44 can be formed integrally. The sensor socket 41b is fixed and can be arranged, for example, on the electronic unit, in particular on another suitable fixed part of the control electronics 60, the housing 50 or the flap unit 10 opposite the rotating magnet 44.

[0079] The actuating device 40 can be directly connected to the baffle 30, wherein an actuating pressure is applied to the baffle 30 to trigger the actuation, in particular the drive, of the second transmission element 42. The actuating device 40 can be configured as a so-called Push-To-Run device. In such a device, by a simple initial pressing-in, the baffle 30 can automatically be transferred from the closed position P1 (for example, a sunken position) to Figure 7 the shown open position P2, in which access to the loading opening or the fuel tank opening is permitted. In this case, with the aid of a simply integrated sensor element 43, the speed and / or the absolute position of the first transmission element 41 and thus of the second transmission element 42 and thus of the baffle 30 can additionally be detected, and / or an opening request can be determined / detected. The start detection can be carried out by means of an angle sensor 43a.

[0080] In the case of a manual closing operation of the baffle 30, by gently pressing on the baffle 30, it can be automatically moved and / or pivoted back to the closed position P1 in a simple manner by means of a so-called Push-To-Run mechanism. In other words: when the baffle 30 is positioned in the open position P2, it can be moved backward in the direction of the released loading opening or fuel tank opening by means of the adjusting device 45, in particular without the user requiring further force. Thus, the comfort of the user can be increased, wherein the user does not have to move the baffle 30 independently until it reaches the closed position P1, for example by pressing on the baffle 30 until the baffle 30 is locked.

[0081] The actuation and / or adjustment of the baffle 30 can be carried out manually and / or electrically, for example by means of an electrically actuable locking element and an electrically movable baffle 30 not shown in more detail.

[0082] For electrical actuation, the actuating device 40 includes, for example, a drive unit 70 having at least one electric motor 71, a worm 72 drivable by the electric motor 71, and a worm gear 73 operatively connected to the worm 72, the worm gear 73 meshing with the worm 72, in particular by snap meshing and / or tooth meshing. The worm gear 73 can have a transmission ratio wheel 74 for the transmission ratio or conversion, which meshes into the second transmission element 42, i.e., the driven element 47.

[0083] The hinge arm 46 is connected to the baffle 30 on the one hand and is arranged on the rotation axis 48 or the nut of the driven element 47 on the other hand.

[0084] Figure 6 A perspective view of a flap unit 10 with an actuating device 40 according to another embodiment is schematically shown, wherein the function and most of the components of the actuating device 40 are configured to be similar to Figure 5 the actuating device 40 shown.

[0085] The actuating device 40 includes at least one drive unit 70, a transmission 40a coupled to the drive unit 70, and an adjusting device 45 coupled to the transmission 40a and the baffle 30. The adjusting device 45 includes at least one hinge arm 46 which is fixedly connected to the baffle 30 at one end / on the one hand and is connected to the transmission 40a at the other end / on the other hand and is pivotally supported. The pressure application on the baffle 30 is transmitted to the transmission 40a through the hinge arm 46. The transmission element 41 can be rotationally driven by the hinge arm 46.

[0086] The transmission 40a includes at least one driven element 47 operatively connected to the hinge arm 46 and rotatable about the rotation axis 48. When pressure is manually applied on the baffle 30 and thus the hinge arm 46 is pressed, the driven element 47 can move in a first rotational direction, as shown by the arrow D2, for closing the baffle 30, and can move in a second rotational direction, as shown by the arrow D3, for opening the baffle 30. In the case of closing drive / closing the baffle 30, the driven element 47 can move in the first rotational direction according to the arrow D2 so as to pivot the hinge arm 46 from the open position P2 to the closed position P1. The transmission 40a of the actuating device 40 is connected between the adjusting device 45 and the drive unit 70. The actuating device 40 for electric adjustment includes, for example, a drive unit 70 having at least one motor 71 and a drive shaft. The transmission 40a includes at least one worm 72 drivable by the drive shaft and a worm wheel 73 operatively connected to the worm 72, for example, meshing, in particular snap meshing and / or tooth meshing. The worm wheel 73 is operatively connected to the driven element 47, in particular in a tooth meshing manner.

[0087] In the embodiment shown here, the first transmission element 41 is a movable part of the transmission 40a and can transmit the driven movement. The transmission element 41 is configured as the driven element 47. The transmission element 41 is arranged to perform an actuating movement on the one hand in the case of manually actuating pressure on the baffle 30 and to perform an adjusting movement on the other hand in the case of activating the drive unit 70.

[0088] The magnet 44 of the sensor element 43, in particular the magnet 44 of the angle sensor 43a, can be fixed in and / or on the rotation axis 48 of the driven element 47 or on the nut. The transmission element 41 can be configured as a simple gear 41a, in particular a driven wheel.

[0089] The hinge arm 46 is arranged on the rotation axis 48 of the transmission element 41 configured as the driven element 47. By the movement transmitted by the hinge arm 46, the rotation axis 48 and thus the drive element 47 can be moved in the first rotation direction according to the arrow D2. This results in a rotational movement of the transmission element 41 and the magnet 44. In this case, it should be understood that even a small actuation stroke applied to the baffle 30 can trigger the rotational movement of the driven element 47, which can be detected by the sensor element 43.

[0090] Optionally, the magnet 44 can be arranged in and / or on the transmission element 41.

[0091] Figure 7 A perspective view of a vehicle body 80 with an opening 81 is schematically shown. In particular, when the baffle 30 is arranged in the closed position P1, the flap unit 10 can cover or overlie the opening 81. Figure 7 The baffle 30 in the open position P2 is shown, in which the baffle 30 and the hinge arm 46 are pivoted upward relative to the opening 81.

[0092] Figure 8 A perspective view of a flap unit 10 with an actuating device 40 according to another embodiment is schematically shown, wherein the function and most of the components of the actuating device 40 are configured to be similar to Figure 6 the actuating device 40 shown.

[0093] According to Figure 8 the actuating device 40 is different from Figure 6 the actuating device 40 in that the magnet 44 is directly arranged on the rotation axis 48 (as Figure 6 shown). The magnet 44 is torsionally connected to the rotation axis 48. The movement on the rotation axis 48 causes the movement of the magnet 44. The magnet 44 is a permanent magnet.

[0094] The magnet sensor 49 is fixedly arranged in the magnetic field of the magnet 44, for example on the fixed part of the actuating device 40, in particular on the inner side of the housing 50 (as Figure 1 shown), or on the control electronics 60 in the housing 50.

[0095] Thus, the sensor element 43 formed by the movable magnet 44 and the fixed magnet sensor 49 is directly integrated into the transmission device 40a.

[0096] As previously described, as Figure 2As shown, the transmission device 40a is self-locking in the closed position P1 of the baffle 30. Therefore, the transmission device 40a in the closed position P1 is mechanically stressed in the opening or closing direction. For example, the transmission device 40a has a clearance between the tooth flanks of the meshing gear elements 41 and 42 (as Figure 5 shown).

[0097] If the baffle 30 is now manually pressed in the closed position P1 to open the baffle 30, the clearance between the tooth flanks in the transmission device 40a is overcome, and the resulting slight rotational movement of one of the transmission elements 41 or 42 can be used to detect the rotational movement of the transmission device 40a generated by the clearance by means of the sensor element 43, and an actuation request can be derived therefrom.

[0098] List of Reference Signs

[0099] 10 Flap unit

[0100] 20 Frame

[0101] 21 First frame opening

[0102] 22 Second frame opening

[0103] 30 Baffle

[0104] 40 Actuating device

[0105] 40a Transmission device

[0106] 41 First transmission element

[0107] 41a Gear

[0108] 41b Sensor socket

[0109] 42 Second transmission element

[0110] 42a Gear

[0111] 43 Sensor element

[0112] 43a Angle sensor

[0113] 44 Magnet

[0114] 45 Adjusting device

[0115] 46 Hinge arm

[0116] 47 Driven element

[0117] 48 Rotation axis

[0118] 49 Magnet sensor

[0119] 50 Housing

[0120] 51 First housing part

[0121] 52 Second housing part

[0122] 53 Accommodation space

[0123] 54 Interface

[0124] 55 Emergency release element

[0125] 60 Control electronic device

[0126] 70 Drive unit

[0127] 71 Motor

[0128] 72 Worm

[0129] 73 Worm gear

[0130] 74 Transmission ratio wheel

[0131] 80 Vehicle body

[0132] 81 Opening

[0133] Arrows D1 to D3

[0134] M Encapsulation material

[0135] P1 Closed position

[0136] P2 Open position

Claims

1. A flap unit (10) for covering an opening (81) of a vehicle, in particular a loading opening or a tank opening, wherein: The flap unit (10) has at least - a movable baffle (30), and - an actuating device (40) coupled to the baffle (30), the actuating device being arranged to detect a manual actuation on the baffle (30) and to adjust the baffle (30), - wherein the actuating device (40) comprises at least one transmission element (41) which can be driven in rotation by manually exerting pressure on the baffle (30) and a sensor element (43) which is operatively connected to the transmission element (41), - wherein the sensor element (43) is arranged to detect a rotational movement of the transmission element (41).

2. The flap unit (10) according to claim 1, in, The sensor element (43) is arranged to detect at least one opening request based on a detected rotational movement of the transmission element (41).

3. The flap unit (10) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The sensor element (43) is arranged to detect at least one position and / or a change in position of the actuating device (40) and / or an adjustment speed of the actuating device (40).

4. The flap unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The sensor element (43) is an angle sensor (43a) and comprises at least one magnet (44) fixedly connected to the transmission element (41).

5. The flap unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The actuating device (40) comprises at least one driven element (47) operably connected to the baffle (30) and rotatable about a rotation axis (48), and when manual pressure is applied to the baffle (30), the driven element (47) can be moved in a first rotation direction according to an arrow (D2) to close the baffle (30), and in a second rotation direction according to an arrow (D3) to open the baffle (30).

6. The flap unit (10) according to claim 5, in, The transmission element (41) is formed as a separately formed magnet holder having a gear (41a) and a magnet receiving surface, and is rotationally movable by the driven element (47).

7. The flap unit (10) according to claim 5, in, The transmission element (41) forms the driven element (47) for the actuating device (40).

8. The flap unit (10) according to claim 5, in, The magnet (44) is fixed in and / or on the rotational axis (48) of the driven element (47).

9. The flap unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The actuating device (40) comprises at least - a drive unit (70), - a transmission (40a) coupled to said drive unit (70), and - an adjustment device (45) coupled to the transmission device (40a) and the baffle (30).

10. The flap unit (10) according to claim 9, in, The adjustment device (45) comprises at least one hinged arm (46) which is connected on the one hand to the baffle (30) and, on the other hand, is arranged on the rotation axis (48) of the driven element (47).

11. The flap unit (10) according to claim 9, in, The transmission device (40a) is configured to be manually driven via the baffle (30) and electrically driven via the drive unit (70).

12. The flap unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The actuating device (40) comprises at least one control electronic device (60) for operating the opening and closing functions of the baffle (30) when a rotation of the transmission element (41) caused by manually applied pressure is detected.

13. A vehicle having at least one opening (81), in particular a loading opening or a tank opening, and a flap unit (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 12 for covering the opening (81).

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