Method for opening a receiving device to release a coating medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a method (10) for opening a receiving device (12) to release a coating medium (36) for coating at least one body component (14) of a motor vehicle by means of the coating medium (36), wherein the receiving device (12), which comprises the coating medium (36) received in the interior space (38) bounded by a wall (28) of the receiving device (12), is opened by actuating an opening mechanism, in particular by the opening mechanism acting directly and / or indirectly on the wall (28) of the receiving device (12).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for opening a receiving device to release a coating medium for coating at least one body component of a motor vehicle using the coating medium.

[0002] In current automotive manufacturing practices, body components are waxed as part of corrosion protection measures. This can be done using either a spray waxing system or a flood waxing system. With a spray waxing system, wax is sprayed onto the body component. With a flood waxing system, the body component is flooded with wax.

[0003] The disadvantages of both spray wax and flood wax systems are that the body panel must be accessible for the system. Flood wax systems require inlet and outlet holes for the wax, while spray wax systems require openings for the spray nozzle. These holes and / or openings are created in the body panel, weakening its structure. Resealing these holes and / or openings, for example with plugs, is costly during assembly.

[0004] For the wax to be applied, both the wax and the body panel must be at a predetermined temperature. The wax must be at least hot enough to be liquid and spread on the panel. This is very energy-intensive. Furthermore, applying wax is an additional process step in production, making it expensive and particularly time-consuming.

[0005] Typically, especially with flood waxing systems, too much wax is applied to the body panel. This excess is associated with particularly high costs and is especially wasteful of resources, namely wax. Furthermore, the processes – spray waxing and / or flood waxing – can lead to carryover, particularly of wax, within the bodywork. For example, these processes can unnecessarily introduce up to 2 kg of wax into the vehicle, which then remains permanently inside.

[0006] German patent application DE 10 2015 116 658 A1 describes a specific embodiment of a spray wax arrangement. This arrangement for applying wax to body components of a vehicle comprises a wax dispensing lance, a wax conveying device designed to convey wax through the dispensing lance, and an interruption device configured to interrupt the wax dispensing within an application process for predetermined time intervals. The wax dispensing lance has a nozzle at one end to generate a fine jet of wax, enabling linear or spot application of wax to the vehicle's body components.

[0007] This method also requires additional process steps for applying wax during production. This results in high production costs. Furthermore, controlling this setup is particularly complex.

[0008] German patent DE 8429069 U1 describes a device for tearing open a bag for storing solid goods in a liquid. The device comprises a hanger for the bag, a support or attachment part for the bag, and a tearing pin which is movable in a transverse direction on a pivoting part in the lower area of ​​the support part.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to improve a method for opening a receiving device in such a way that it is designed to be particularly simple, reliable and flexible.

[0010] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent patent claims, the description, and the figures.

[0011] Accordingly, the invention proposes a method for opening a receiving device to release a coating medium for coating at least one body component of a motor vehicle using the coating medium. In the method, the receiving device is opened, in particular, to allow the coating medium contained within it to escape, flow out, or be released. A body component and / or several interconnected body components can then be coated, in particular preserved, using the coating medium. The receiving device can be designed, for example, as a casing, a bag, a pouch, or a pad. The coating medium is designed, for example, as wax, a wax mixture, a wax-based product, or wax containing particles.In particular, the coating medium is designed as a meltable or liquefiable wax or as an oxidatively curing wax. Depending on the requirements of the coating process, either solid or lumpy wax or oxidatively curing wax can be used, which is initially liquid in the receiving device and hardens upon contact with oxygen as soon as it exits the receiving device.

[0012] If the wax in the receiving device is initially in a solid state, it must be liquefied before opening the device. The wax can be heated to liquefy it. Alternatively, if oxidatively curing wax is used in the receiving device, the wax will already be liquid.

[0013] The method comprises providing a receiving device that holds the coating medium contained within an interior space defined by a wall of the receiving device, for coating at least one body component of the motor vehicle. In other words, a receiving device is provided that is designed to receive and retain the coating medium. The receiving device can be filled with the coating medium. In particular, the receiving device is at least partially, i.e., completely or partially, filled with the coating medium and sealed, preferably hermetically sealed. Preferably, the wall or the material of the wall of the receiving device has a density and chemical resistance sufficient to retain the coating medium under predetermined process conditions.The wall, which is particularly preferably made of plastic, is designed in particular as a wall, a shell, or a wall element. The term "interior" refers in particular to a cavity or chamber in the receiving device or a space enclosed by the wall.

[0014] In a further process step, the receiving device is positioned on the at least one body component. In other words, the receiving device can be attached to the at least one body component. In particular, the receiving device is attached to a predetermined area, for example, an assembly area, of the body component. For example, the receiving device is glued or clipped to the body component.

[0015] In a further process step, an opening mechanism is actuated. The opening mechanism preferably refers to a mechanical, physical, and / or chemical process, particularly for opening the wall of the receiving device. For example, the mechanical process can be implemented using a component that can be used to open the wall at a predetermined area. The physical and / or chemical process can take place inside the receiving device or on the wall itself, thus performing or initiating an opening process or causing the wall to open.

[0016] According to a further process step, the wall of the receiving device is opened by the opening mechanism, which acts on the wall of the receiving device, in particular directly and / or indirectly. The opening of the wall can, for example, include melting, bursting, tearing, or dissolving at least part of the wall caused by the opening mechanism. The wall can open automatically, in particular spontaneously, or directly by the opening mechanism.

[0017] The advantage of the method according to the invention is that the coating medium can be released in a particularly simple and reliable manner by means of the opening mechanism.

[0018] The invention also includes embodiments that offer additional advantages.

[0019] One embodiment provides that the opening mechanism includes a force device, wherein a tensile and / or compressive force is applied by means of the force device to at least one opening area of ​​the wall, and wherein, upon reaching a threshold value of the tensile and / or compressive force, the wall, particularly within the opening area, is torn or burst open. In other words, a tensile and / or compressive force is exerted by means of a force device on the wall of the receiving device—that is, on a region of the wall and / or on the entire wall—such that the receiving device is opened. In particular, the wall is pulled and / or pressed until a threshold value of a tensile and / or compressive force is reached and the wall tears or bursts open.In particular, the tensile and / or compressive force is exerted on the entire wall and / or on a predetermined area – the opening area – of the wall. "Opening area" refers specifically to a predetermined area or section of the wall. Specifically, the opening area is a different area of ​​the wall of the receiving device than the area of ​​the body component located on it. This offers the advantage that the receiving device can be opened in a particularly simple and reliable manner.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment, the method can further include the step of the force device having a mandrel or a pin, wherein the mandrel or pin presses against the wall within the opening area, and upon reaching the threshold of the pressure force, the wall within the opening area is torn open. In other words, the mandrel or pin presses against the wall within the opening area with a predetermined pressure force until the wall tears open at that point. In other words, the wall of the receiving device within the opening area can be mechanically pierced or punctured by means of the mandrel or pin. As an opening mechanism, the mandrel or pin acts directly on the wall of the receiving device.

[0021] For example, the mandrel is first guided through the body panel to the receiving device attached to it. The mandrel can then pierce the section of the wall attached to the body panel and be guided into the interior of the receiving device. The mandrel can be moved perpendicular to a plane of the body panel. Subsequently, the mandrel can be guided through the interior of the receiving device, particularly perpendicular to the generated opening, until it encounters an opening in the wall of the receiving device. The mandrel can then exert a compressive force on this opening. This compressive force can be exerted until a threshold value is reached. Once this threshold is reached, the wall can open within the opening area.

[0022] This offers the advantage that the wall can be opened particularly easily at the predetermined area and the exit direction of the coating medium can be specified particularly reliably.

[0023] Advantageously, the force device comprises a force transmission element, wherein the force transmission element is preferably designed as a thread, particularly preferably as a nylon thread, or as a wire, wherein the force transmission element is arranged at the opening area and / or extends along a direction of extension of the opening area, and wherein the force transmission element exerts and / or transmits the tensile force to the opening area. In other words, the force transmission element connected to the opening area, which is designed as a thread or wire, can be pulled until the wall within the opening area opens. The force transmission element can be arranged at a single point within the opening area and connected to the wall.Additionally or alternatively, the force transmission element can extend at least partially within the opening area, meaning it can at least partially rest against the wall and / or be integrated into it. For example, the receiving device can be mechanically torn open or opened by means of an integrated thread, particularly a nylon thread, in the wall of the receiving device by pulling on the thread. The force transmission element acts directly on the wall of the receiving device as the opening mechanism. This offers the advantage that the receiving device can be opened in a particularly simple manner and the point of exit of the coating medium can be precisely defined to ensure a particularly good coating of the body component. Furthermore, this opening mechanism has a particularly low energy consumption.

[0024] An advantageous embodiment provides that pulling on the force transmission element exerts or transmits the tensile force to the wall within the opening area. In other words, the force transmission element can be pulled with sufficient force until the wall within the opening area opens. The force transmission element, through its tensile force, acts directly on the wall of the receiving device, acting as the opening mechanism. For example, a robot arm can pull on the force transmission element. This offers the advantage of a particularly simple and reliable opening of the receiving device. Furthermore, this opening mechanism is associated with very low energy consumption. Due to the interaction with the force transmission element, no drilling is required in the body component, thus preventing any additional weakening of the body component.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the wire can be made of a bimetal or a shape memory alloy, wherein the wire is heated and, through the temperature-dependent deformation of the wire, exerts a tensile force on the wall within the opening area. In other words, the force transmission element can be designed as a bimetal or a shape memory alloy, wherein the force transmission element is heated, in particular by the supply of thermal or electrical energy, whereby the bimetal or shape memory alloy deforms due to the heating and exerts a tensile force on the wall at or within the opening area by the wire. Preferably, the bimetal or shape memory alloy is arranged on or within the opening area of ​​the wall or is at least partially integrated or embedded in the wall.For example, a bimetallic strip can be integrated into the wall of the receiving device, which bends depending on the temperature and tears the wall. Alternatively, the bimetallic strip can be connected or coupled to the wall at one point, bend depending on the temperature, and pull on the wall, particularly at specific points. The wire can be heated by a heat source located near the receiving device, such as an infrared heater. This offers the advantage that the receiving device can be opened in a particularly simple manner, and the point of exit of the coating medium can be precisely defined to ensure a particularly good coating of the body panel.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment, the force device comprises a feed element, wherein the feed element is inserted into the interior of the receiving device and a medium, in particular a gas, most preferably compressed air, is introduced into the interior of the receiving device via the feed element until the threshold pressure force is reached. The feed element is, for example, designed as a nozzle, a channel, or a pin with a supply line. For example, the wall of the receiving device is first pierced, particularly mechanically, by means of a pin, and compressed air is additionally initiated, directed, introduced, or blown into the interior of the receiving device via the pin. By introducing the compressed air into the interior of the receiving device, the receiving device can, in particular, be inflated and burst.The pressure threshold can be, in particular, a pressure inside the receiving device at which the wall bursts, or a bursting pressure. For example, the threshold can be 2 bar. The opening mechanism is effected indirectly by the medium supplied to the interior, specifically by increasing the pressure inside the receiving device. As soon as the pressure threshold is reached, the wall can open at least partially, and preferably completely, and most preferably automatically, by bursting, particularly within the opening area.

[0027] For example, the feed element is first guided through the body panel, which may have an opening, to the receiving device attached to it. The feed element can then pierce the section of the wall attached to the body panel and be guided into the interior of the receiving device. Once the feed element is inside, compressed air can be introduced into the interior of the receiving device.

[0028] This offers the advantage that the recording device can be opened in a particularly simple and reliable manner.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively, the coating medium can be a wax-gas mixture. Specifically, the wax is in a liquid state. A further gas can be introduced into the interior of the receiving device via the feed element. In a further process step, the contents of the receiving device, specifically the wax-gas mixture and the introduced gas, can be heated by means of a heating device. Through heating or with increasing temperature, the gases can react with each other and / or the contents can expand until a pressure threshold is reached within the interior. This results in a chemical activation from within the receiving device. The introduced gas can expand with the wax-gas mixture through thermal activation, thus causing the receiving device to burst.This offers the advantage that the recording device can be opened in a particularly simple and reliable manner.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the coating medium can be a wax-gas mixture, or a gas can be supplied to the wax in the interior via the feed element, so that a wax-gas mixture forms in the interior. In particular, the wax is in a liquid state. In a further process step, the contents, especially the wax-gas mixture, of the receiving device can be heated by means of a heating device designed to warm it. Through heating or with increasing temperature of the contents, the contents, especially the gas, can expand until a pressure threshold is reached in the interior. This results in a chemical activation from within the receiving device. The wax-gas mixture can expand through thermal activation and thus cause the receiving device to burst.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, the coating medium can be a wax-substrate mixture, particularly a liquid one. In a further process step, the contents, especially the wax-substrate mixture, of the receiving device can be heated by means of a heating device designed to warm it. Due to the heating or the rising temperature, the substrate can evaporate or transition into a gaseous state. The evaporation of the substrate can cause the contents, especially the vaporized substrate, to expand within the interior of the receiving device until a pressure threshold is reached. This results in a chemical activation from within the receiving device. The wax-substrate mixture can expand through thermal activation, potentially causing the receiving device to burst.For example, the substrate can be an alcoholic liquid or a liquid that has a lower evaporation temperature than the wax.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the opening mechanism can include a feed element, wherein the feed element is inserted into the interior of the receiving device and air with a predetermined humidity is introduced into the interior of the receiving device via the feed element until the humidity threshold is reached in the interior of the receiving device. As soon as the humidity threshold is reached in the interior, the wall of the receiving device, particularly within the opening area, can dissolve and open. Preferably, a predetermined material component of the wall, particularly within the opening area, can dissolve, preferably automatically, upon reaching the humidity threshold in the interior of the receiving device. By dissolving, the wall, particularly within the opening area, can be at least partially opened.

[0033] Instead of increasing the humidity inside the recording device, it can alternatively be provided that the humidity in the surrounding area of ​​the recording device is increased until the humidity threshold is reached and the wall of the recording device, particularly within the opening area, dissolves and opens.

[0034] Advantageously, the opening area has a predetermined breaking point, wherein the receiving device tears and / or bursts open at the predetermined breaking point as soon as the threshold value is reached. A "predetermined breaking point" refers in particular to a location, area, or section on the wall of the receiving device, especially on or within the wall of the receiving device, which is designed such that when a threshold value of a force is reached, opening occurs at the predetermined breaking point. For example, the predetermined breaking point is formed from a material that has a structural weakness compared to the rest of the wall. For example, the wall thickness at the predetermined breaking point is smaller or thinner than the rest of the wall of the receiving device.This offers the advantage that the coating medium can exit the receiving device at the predetermined breaking point, making the release of the coating medium particularly easy to control.

[0035] Another advantageous embodiment provides that the opening mechanism includes a heating device, wherein the wall of the receiving device is heated, at least within an opening area, particularly directly or indirectly, by means of the heating device, and wherein, upon reaching a melting temperature of at least one material component of the wall, particularly within the opening area, the wall is at least partially opened. In other words, the wall can be heated completely or partially, i.e., within the opening area, by means of the heating device such that the wall, particularly within the opening area, melts.Once the melting temperature of at least one material component is reached, the wall can be opened at least partially, and in particular completely, preferably automatically, by melting the at least one material component, especially within the opening area. For example, the heating device can have a heat source, such as an infrared radiator, which is arranged in the vicinity of the receiving device. The heat source can emit heat, i.e., thermal energy, directed towards the opening area and heat the wall at the opening area to its melting temperature. Once the melting temperature of the material or at least one material component of the wall is reached, the wall can melt. The heat source can, in particular, act directly on the wall of the receiving device.This offers the advantage that the recording device can be opened in a particularly simple and reliable manner.

[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment, the heating device is designed to heat the coating medium by microwaves and / or infrared radiation, wherein the coating medium is heated by the heating device to the melting temperature of the at least one material component.

[0037] In particular, the opening area or the wall is heated indirectly by heating the coating medium. When the coating medium reaches the melting temperature of at least one material component, the wall, especially within the opening area, melts and opens. For example, a microwave emission device can be arranged outside the receiving device, i.e., in the vicinity of the receiving device, and the microwaves can be directed at the receiving device, especially at the coating medium. This opening mechanism acts, in particular indirectly, on the wall of the receiving device by heating the coating medium to open the wall.

[0038] Advantageously, the heating device comprises a heating element, wherein the heating element is designed as a wire, the wire being arranged at the opening region and / or extending along a direction of extension of the opening region. "Direction of extension" refers in particular to the extent, direction of expansion, or length of the opening region. For example, the wire can extend over the entire length of the opening region. The wire can be at least partially, i.e., completely or partially, embedded or integrated into the wall. By applying an electric current or by inductive heating, the wire is heated to the melting temperature of the at least one material component. In other words, by supplying electrical energy to the wire and / or by inductive, particularly contactless, heating of the wire, the at least one material component can be heated and melted.The electrical contact, particularly of the wire, can be established via an electrical connection point, i.e., a power source, which is located, in particular, outside of, or in the vicinity of, the receiving device. The application of electrical energy causes, in particular, resistance heating of the wire. For example, activation or heating occurs by applying current to the wire, which is at least partially integrated into the wall of the receiving device at the opening area. As soon as the melting temperature is reached, at least one material component can melt and the wall can be at least partially opened. In particular, the area of ​​the wall that is in contact with or rests against the wire melts. The heated wire acts directly on the wall of the receiving device as the opening mechanism.Since only the wire is heated, the energy consumption is particularly low.

[0039] Another advantageous embodiment provides that the heating device heats the body panel on which the receiving device is arranged to the melting temperature of at least one material component. This heating can be achieved, for example, by selectively directing a welding flame, a hot air stream, or an infrared emitter onto the area of ​​the body panel on which the receiving device is located. Preferably, the heat is applied from an outer surface of the body panel opposite the attached receiving device. In this area, the body panel can, for example, be provided with a higher thermal conductivity than in the surrounding areas.Once the melting temperature of at least one material component is reached, the wall can be opened at least partially, and in particular completely, preferably automatically, by melting the at least one material component, especially within the opening area. The heated body component acts directly on the wall of the receiving device as the opening mechanism.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment, the receiving device comprises a chamber in its interior, which is at least partially connected to the opening area. In other words, a chamber is arranged in the interior of the receiving device, which is at least partially connected to the opening area. "Chamber" refers in particular to an area or cavity delimited from the interior. A phase-change material is contained within the chamber. Thus, the coating medium and the phase-change material are arranged in the interior of the receiving device, with the coating medium and the phase-change material being separated from each other by the chamber. The chamber encapsulates the phase-change material, in particular, from the coating medium.The phase-change material is stimulated by an activation device of the opening mechanism to undergo a phase change or phase transition and to heat the at least one material component to its melting temperature. The phase change of the phase-change material releases thermal energy, which heats the wall of the receiving device or the at least one material component to its melting temperature. The phase-change material preferably undergoes a phase transition from liquid to solid. The opening mechanism is primarily the heat-releasing phase-change material acting directly on the wall of the receiving device. The energy consumption of the phase-change material is particularly low.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the activation device emits ultrasonic waves directed at the phase-change material or vibrates the chamber or the receiving device to stimulate the phase change. In other words, the activation device can emit ultrasonic waves directed at the phase-change material to activate it, in particular to effect a phase change or phase transition. The activation device can be located in the vicinity of the receiving device. Alternatively, the activation device can vibrate the chamber or the receiving device to activate the phase-change material, in particular to effect a phase change or phase transition.

[0042] According to an alternative embodiment, the interior of the receiving device contains a mixture of the coating medium and a phase-change material. The phase-change material can then be stimulated by an activation device of the opening mechanism to undergo a phase change and heat the at least one material component to its melting temperature. This phase change releases thermal energy, which heats the wall of the receiving device or the at least one material component to its melting temperature. The activation device can stimulate the phase change by emitting ultrasonic waves directed into the interior or by vibrating the receiving device.

[0043] Advantageously, the coating medium comprises particles, particularly microparticles, wherein the particles are designed as sharp-edged particles. The microparticles are, for example, made of plastic or glass. Particularly preferably, the particles are designed as plastic fragments. The opening mechanism comprises a moving device, wherein the particles in the interior of the receiving device are set into motion by the moving device, and the wall is opened at least partially, particularly within the opening area, by the action of the sharp-edged particles on the wall of the receiving device. In other words, the particles can be set into vibration or motion by the moving device and thereby act on the wall until the wall is at least partially opened.In other words, the sharp-edged particles can, through their movement, act on the wall in such a way that the wall is at least partially weakened, opened, damaged, and / or torn by the movement. For example, the particles can be excited to vibrate or be set in motion by the introduction of thermal energy and / or kinetic energy, which is emitted in particular by the moving device, into the coating medium.

[0044] Another advantageous embodiment provides that the motion device emits microwaves and / or ultrasonic waves and / or acoustic waves to excite the movement of the particles, particularly directed at the coating medium. Additionally or alternatively, the motion device can also perform frequency excitation of the at least one body component on which the receiving device is arranged. In other words, the motion device can be configured to set the at least one body component into vibration.

[0045] Advantageously, the receiving device can have a chamber, wherein the chamber is arranged in the interior of the receiving device and is at least partially connected to the opening area of ​​the receiving device. The chamber can be filled with a liquid which is designed to dissolve or decompose the wall or at least a material component of the wall, particularly preferably within the opening area, especially over time.

[0046] The invention also includes combinations of the features of the described embodiments. The invention therefore also includes realizations that each exhibit a combination of the features of several of the described embodiments, provided that the embodiments have not been described as mutually exclusive.

[0047] The following are exemplary embodiments of the invention described. This is illustrated by: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a method for opening a receiving device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of process steps for opening the receiving device according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 a schematic representation of process steps for opening the receiving device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4 a schematic representation of a motor vehicle door with a marked area where the receiving device can be arranged, in a perspective view; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a section of a motor vehicle door on which the recording device is arranged, in a perspective view; Fig. 6 a schematic representation of a section of a sill and wheel arch of a motor vehicle with a marked area on which the receiving device can be arranged, in a perspective view; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a sill in a perspective view; and Fig. 8 a schematic cross-sectional representation of the sill with receiving devices at predetermined areas and an opening mechanism for opening the respective receiving device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0048] The exemplary embodiments described below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In these exemplary embodiments, the described components each represent individual features of the invention, which can be considered independently of one another and each further develops the invention independently. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to include combinations of features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0049] In the figures, identical reference symbols denote functionally equivalent elements.

[0050] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a method 10 for opening a receiving device to release a coating medium for coating at least one body component of a motor vehicle. The coating medium can be, for example, wax or a wax mixture. The body component and / or several interconnected body components are coated or preserved using the coating medium. The receiving device can be, for example, a bag, a casing, or a pad. The body component can be, for example, a door of a motor vehicle, a sill of the motor vehicle, and / or a wheel arch of the motor vehicle.

[0051] In a first process step S1, the receiving device is provided with the coating medium. The coating medium is initially contained within an interior space of the receiving device, which is bounded by a wall. The receiving device is thus at least partially, or even completely, filled with the coating medium. The coating medium can be contained in the receiving device in a liquid state. For example, the coating medium can be an oxidatively curing wax. In this case, the oxidatively curing wax is located within the interior of the receiving device without contact with air or oxygen. Alternatively, the coating medium can be contained within the interior of the receiving device in solid form or in a solid state of matter. For example, the coating medium can be a wax block or wax granules.If the coating medium is in a solid state, it must be ensured that it is melted or liquefied, i.e., in a liquid state, before exiting the receiving device. For example, the coating medium can be heated to liquefy it before opening the receiving device.

[0052] In a further process step S2, the receiving device is positioned on at least one body component. The receiving device can be attached to a predetermined area of ​​the body component. For example, the receiving device can be glued to the predetermined area of ​​the body component. Alternatively, the receiving device can also be screwed, riveted, or clipped to the predetermined area.

[0053] The method is described in particular with a receiving device. However, several receiving devices can also be attached to the same body component, especially to different areas of the body component, or to several interconnected body components.

[0054] In a further process step S3, an opening mechanism is actuated. The opening mechanism refers in particular to a process that causes the wall of the receiving device, especially at an opening area of ​​the wall, to open. The opening mechanism can comprise a mechanical process and / or a physical process and / or a chemical process.

[0055] In a further process step S4, the wall of the receiving device is opened by the opening mechanism, which acts on the wall of the receiving device, in particular directly and / or indirectly. The opening mechanism can act directly on the wall of the receiving device by cutting, piercing, tearing, melting, or dissolving the wall at a predetermined area – the opening area. Additionally or alternatively, the opening mechanism can act indirectly on the wall, for example, by changing a condition in the interior of the receiving device. For example, the temperature and / or pressure and / or humidity in the interior can be changed, leading to the opening of the wall of the receiving device.

[0056] In connection with Fig. 2 and Fig. Section 3 will discuss in more detail embodiments of the opening mechanism for opening the receiving device, i.e., process steps S3 and S4. Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows the receiving device 12, which is arranged on a body component 14. The body component 14 is a door of a motor vehicle. The receiving device 12 is arranged on a predetermined area 16 of the body component 14. The receiving device 12 is located between an outer surface 18 of the component and an inner surface 20 opposite the outer surface 18. The receiving device 12 is arranged in a cavity 22 formed between the outer surface 18 and the inner surface 20. The receiving device 12 is arranged or attached to a surface 24 of the outer surface 18 facing the cavity 22 at the predetermined area 16. For example, the receiving device 12 is glued to the surface 24 at the predetermined area 16 of the body component 14.

[0057] The receiving device 12 is arranged in the area of ​​an opening 26 of the body component 14, which is, for example, designed as a bore. In other words, the predetermined area 16 has the opening 26 on which the receiving device 12 is arranged. How Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen from Figure 3, the receiving device 12, in particular a region or part of the wall 28 of the receiving device 12, conceals or covers the opening 26. In other words, a predetermined region of the wall 28 of the receiving device 12 can rest on and / or cover the opening 26 of the body component 14. Alternatively, the receiving device 12 can also be arranged on the predetermined region 16 of the body component 14, and in a further process step, the opening 26 can then be introduced into the body component 14 at the predetermined region 16.

[0058] A sealing element 30 can be arranged on the surface 24 of the body component 14 at the opening 26. The receiving device 12 or the wall 28 of the receiving device 12 can bear against the sealing element 30. The sealing element 30 can seal or close the opening 26. Alternatively, the sealing element 30 can be integrated into the wall 28 of the receiving device 12 or form part of the wall 28 of the receiving device 12. In this case, the receiving device 12 is arranged on the body component 14 such that the sealing element 30 rests on the opening 26, in particular congruently, and seals and / or closes it. The sealing element 30 can be designed as a valve.The valve of the receiving device 12 can then be arranged at the opening 26, so that the opening 26 of the body component 14 and a valve passage of the valve are opposite each other, in particular parallel.

[0059] At the in Fig. In the embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 2, the receiving device 12 is arranged with a lower end 32 at the opening 26. The lower end 32 of the receiving device 12 is arranged, in particular, in a vertical direction z relative to an upper end 34 of the receiving device 12. The vertical direction z coincides, in particular, with a direction of gravity. In other words, the receiving device 12 is arranged on the body component 14 such that the lower end 32, or a lower region of the receiving device 12, which is arranged, in particular, relative to the upper end 34 in a vertical direction z, abuts the opening 26.

[0060] Unlike in Fig. 2 is in Fig. 3 the receiving device 12 is arranged on the body component 14 in such a way that the upper end 34 or the upper area of ​​the receiving device 12, which is arranged in the vertical direction z opposite the lower end 32 or lower area, rests against the opening 26.

[0061] The receiving device 12 is in Fig. 2 in process steps S3.1 and S3.2 filled with a coating medium 36. According to the embodiment of Fig. 2 the receiving device 12 is completely filled with the coating medium 36. In Fig. 3 The receiving device 12 is partially, i.e., not completely, filled with the coating medium 36, as can be seen from process steps S3.1' and S3.2'. The receiving device 12 is in the embodiments in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 with the coating medium 36 contained therein is arranged at the predetermined area 16 of the body component 14. The coating medium 36 is contained in an interior space 38 bounded by the wall 28 of the receiving device 12.

[0062] In Fig. Figure 2 schematically depicts three successive process steps S3.1, S3.2, and S4.1 for opening the receiving device 12. According to this embodiment, process steps S3.1 and S3.2 specify, in particular, process step S3 of actuating the opening mechanism, as is the case in connection with Fig. 1 was described. According to this embodiment, process step S4.1 specifies in particular process step S4 of opening the receiving device 12, as described in connection with Fig. 1 was described.

[0063] Fig. Figure 2 shows a force device 40 of the opening mechanism for opening the receiving device 12 to release the coating medium 36. The opening mechanism includes, in particular, the force device 40 for opening the receiving device 12. The force device 40 includes a mandrel 42. In process step 3.1, the mandrel 42 is guided through the opening 26 into the interior 38 of the receiving device 12. The mandrel 42 is moved perpendicular to the vertical direction z in a transverse direction y. In doing so, the mandrel 42 can pierce the wall 28 of the receiving device 12, which covers the opening 26. Since the receiving device 12 is bonded to the predetermined area 16, the coating medium 36 cannot flow out of the receiving device 12 in this area. In the further process step 3.2. The mandrel 42 is guided through the interior 38 of the receiving device 12, particularly in the transverse direction y or perpendicular to the opening 26, until it encounters an opening region 44 in the wall 28 of the receiving device 12. The mandrel 42 is guided to a region of the wall 28 opposite the opening 26. In process step S4.1, the mandrel 42 exerts a compressive force on the opening region 44 of the wall 28 of the receiving device 12. The mandrel 42 exerts this compressive force on the opening region 44 of the wall 28 until a threshold value of the compressive force is reached. As soon as the threshold value is reached, the wall 28 opens within the opening region 44. In particular, the wall 28 is mechanically pierced at the opening region 44 by means of the mandrel 42.The opening mechanism is therefore a mechanical process using the mandrel 42, which pierces the wall 28 at or within the opening area 44. The mandrel 42 acts directly on the wall 28, specifically at the opening area 44 of the wall 28.

[0064] Unlike in Fig. 2 indicates the receiving device 12 in Fig. 3. A predetermined breaking point 48 is located at the opening area 44. For example, the predetermined breaking point 48 can be formed by making the wall thickness of the wall 28 in this area smaller or thinner than the rest of the wall 28 of the receiving device 12. The predetermined breaking point 48 is located at the lower end 32 of the receiving device 12. The predetermined breaking point 48 can extend along a direction of expansion of the receiving device 12. According to the embodiment of Fig. 3 a feed element 50 on.

[0065] In Fig. Figure 3 schematically depicts three successive process steps or procedure steps S3.1', S3.2', and S4.1' for opening the receiving device 12. According to this embodiment, procedure steps S3.1' and S3.2' specify, in particular, procedure step S3 of actuating the opening mechanism, as is done in connection with Fig. 1 was described. According to this embodiment, process step S4.1' specifies in particular process step S4 of opening the receiving device 12, as described in connection with Fig. 1 was described.

[0066] In process step 3.1', the feed element 50 is guided through the opening 26 into the interior 38 of the receiving device 12. The feed element 50 is moved perpendicular to the vertical direction z in a transverse direction y. In doing so, the feed element 50 can pierce the wall 28 of the receiving device 12, which covers the opening 26.

[0067] The feed element 50 is designed, for example, as a nozzle, in particular as a compressed air nozzle, or as a mandrel with a compressed air supply line. Once the feed element 50 is arranged in the interior 38 of the receiving device 12, compressed air is fed into the interior 38 of the receiving device 12 via the feed element 50 in process step 3.2'. Compressed air is fed into the interior 38 of the receiving device 12 until a predetermined pressure threshold, in particular within the interior 38, is reached. As soon as the predetermined threshold or pressure threshold is reached, the receiving device 12 opens at the predetermined breaking point 48 in process step 4.1'. In particular, the receiving device 12 bursts open at the predetermined breaking point 48, in particular automatically, when the threshold is reached.The opening mechanism thus involves a physical process using compressed air introduced into the interior 38, which increases the pressure in the interior 38 until the wall 28 bursts at the predetermined breaking point 48. The opening mechanism acts, primarily indirectly, on the wall 28 of the receiving device 12 by means of the compressed air, causing the receiving device 12 to open.

[0068] As soon as the receiving device 12 is opened, in particular at the opening area 44 or within the opening area 44 or at the predetermined breaking point 48, it can be, as Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen from Figure 3, the coating medium 36 located in the interior 38 of the receiving device 12 flows out of the interior 38 via the opening area 44. The coating medium 36 can flow into a rebate 46, in particular a door rebate. For the coating medium 36 to flow out of the receiving device 12, it must be in a liquid state. For example, oxidatively curing wax, which is present in a liquid state in the interior 38 of the receiving device 12, can be used as the coating medium 36. As soon as the oxidatively curing wax flows out of the receiving device 12 towards the rebate 46, it can harden upon contact with air or oxygen. Alternatively, wax can be present in a solid state in the receiving device 12 and be heated and thereby liquefied before and / or during the actuation of the opening mechanism.This allows the liquefied wax to flow out of the receiving device 12 in the direction of the fold 46.

[0069] In connection with Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 describes that the opening 26 is already located in the body component 14. Alternatively, it may be provided that the opening 26 is only formed by the mandrel 42 or the feed element 50 or another device which is designed to create an opening in the body component.

[0070] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a motor vehicle door 52. The predetermined area 16, where the receiving device 12 is arranged, is located in the area of ​​the door rebate 46. The predetermined area 16 is indicated by the dashed line. It extends perpendicularly to the vertical direction z in a longitudinal direction x, particularly along the length of a motor vehicle. The predetermined area may coincide with an area of ​​the body component 14 to be coated, i.e., the area to be coated with the coating medium 36.

[0071] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a section of a motor vehicle door on which the receiving device 12 is arranged. The receiving device 12 extends at least partially, i.e., completely or partially, perpendicular to the vertical direction z in the longitudinal direction x along the predetermined area 16. The opening 26 is located in the predetermined area 16, through which either the force transmission element, i.e., the mandrel 42, or the feed element 50 can be inserted into the interior of the receiving device 12.

[0072] Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a sill 54 and a wheel arch 56 of a motor vehicle body in a perspective view. The sill 54 can be one body component and the wheel arch 56 another, with both body components – sill 54 and wheel arch 56 – being coupled or connected to each other. The marked area (dashed line) forms the predetermined area 16 in which the receiving device 12 is arranged. For example, as also shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the receiving device 12 can extend over the entire predetermined area 16, or several receiving devices 12 can be arranged at a predetermined distance from each other within the predetermined area 16.

[0073] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of the sill 54 of a motor vehicle in a perspective view. The marked points 1 and 2 show the positions of the openings 26 through which either the mandrel 42 or the feed element 50 is inserted into the receiving device 12, and / or positions of the predetermined area 16 in which the receiving devices 12 can be arranged.

[0074] Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the sill 54 made of Fig.7 with receiving devices 12 at predetermined areas 16. The marked points 1 and 2 show the positions of the openings 26 through which the feed element 50 is inserted into the interior 38 of the receiving device 12, and / or positions of the predetermined area 16 where the receiving devices 12 can be arranged. A receiving device 12 is arranged at each of several predetermined areas – in this case, 3 predetermined areas. Each of the predetermined areas 16 has an opening 26 through which, in this embodiment, a feed element 50 is guided into the interior 38 of the receiving device 12. The opening 26 can also be formed in the body component 14 only by the feed element 50.

[0075] Overall, the examples show how activation of a wax pad can be provided.

[0076] The idea involves, in particular, introducing wax into a type of bag or receiving device. This receiving device will be referred to as a bag in the following. The bag can be locally attached to specific areas of vehicle structures during the body-in-white stage, i.e., to a single body panel and / or several interconnected body panels. The bag is later opened at specific points, allowing the wax to flow out.

[0077] The following defines the variants with which the wax-filled bag can be activated or opened in the body shell construction.

[0078] One method involves mechanically piercing the wax-filled pouch using a spike or pin. Optionally, the spike can also introduce compressed air into the pouch, causing it to inflate and tear along a defined point.

[0079] In an additional or alternative variant, the bag's outer shell, especially one made of plastic, can dissolve independently depending on temperature and / or time.

[0080] In an additional or alternative variant, the bag can be mechanically torn open by means of an integrated thread, which is designed, for example, as a nylon thread, in the bag casing.

[0081] An additional or alternative method involves activation by applying an electric current to a wire. This causes the wire to heat up due to resistance. The wire is integrated along the entire length of the bag or partially at specific points within the bag. The wire can make electrical contact with the surrounding area of ​​the bag, particularly via external connection points. This melts the area of ​​the bag in contact with the wire, and the bag opens.

[0082] An additional or alternative variant allows for contactless inductive heating and / or inductive activation of the wire. This melts the bag's outer layer in the area of ​​contact with the wire, opening the bag.

[0083] In an additional or alternative version, a bimetallic strip can be integrated into the bag's outer layer, which bends depending on the temperature and thereby tears the bag open. Alternatively, the bimetallic strip can be located in the bag's surroundings and coupled or connected to it.

[0084] In an additional or alternative variant, chemical activation or heating can occur from within the bag or from the surrounding environment. As a result, the bag, especially a plastic bag, dissolves, or the contents expand along with a wax-gas mixture. Thermal activation is particularly necessary in this case.

[0085] An additional or alternative method involves ultrasonic activation. This can excite the bag material. This excitation causes heating and / or an increase in pressure inside the bag, which can rupture, or open, the bag's outer layer. Optionally, additional sharp-edged microparticles, such as plastic fragments, can be present in the wax mixture. These can weaken and open the bag's outer layer through vibration.

[0086] An additional or alternative variant can incorporate an exothermic reaction using a wax-substrate mixture. The substrate can trigger this exothermic reaction. This trigger can be, for example, ultrasound and / or vibration in the vicinity of the bag. This heats the wax-substrate mixture, allowing it to reach the target temperature and open the bag.

[0087] As an additional or alternative option, the bag can be microwaved.

[0088] In an additional or alternative variant, excitation can be carried out by natural frequency and / or acoustic excitation of the bag or the bag contents. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2015 116 658 A1

[0006] DE 8429069 U1

[0008]

Claims

[1] Method (10) for opening a receiving device (12) for releasing a coating medium (36) for coating at least one body component (14) of a motor vehicle by means of the coating medium (36), comprising the steps: - Providing the receiving device (12), wherein the receiving device (12) comprises the coating medium (36) received in an interior space (38) bounded by a wall (28) of the receiving device (12) for coating the at least one body component (14) of the motor vehicle; - Arranging the receiving device (12) on the at least one body component (14); - Activating an opening mechanism and - Opening of the wall (28) of the receiving device (12) by the opening mechanism, which acts on the wall (28) of the receiving device (12), in particular directly and / or indirectly. [2] Method (10) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the opening mechanism comprises a force device (40), wherein a tensile force and / or compressive force is applied by means of the force device (40) to at least an opening area (44) of the wall (28), wherein when a threshold value of the tensile force and / or the compressive force is reached the wall (28), in particular within the opening area (44), is torn open or bursts open. [3] Method (10) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the force device (40) has a mandrel (42) wherein the mandrel (42) presses on the wall (28) within the opening area (44), wherein when the threshold value of the pressure force is reached the wall (28) within the opening area (44) is torn open. [4] Method (10) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by, that the force device (40) has a force transmission element, wherein the force transmission element is in particular designed as a thread, especially preferably as a nylon thread, or as a wire, wherein the force transmission element is arranged on the opening area (44) and / or extends along a direction of extension of the opening area (44), wherein the force transmission element exerts the tensile force on the opening area (44). [5] Method (10) according to claim 4, characterized by , that by pulling on the force transmission element the tensile force is exerted on the wall (28) within the opening area (44) or the wire is made of a bimetal or a shape memory alloy, wherein the wire is heated and the temperature-dependent shape change of the wire exerts the tensile force on the wall (28) within the opening area (44). [6] Method (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized by , that the force device (40) comprises a feed element (50), wherein the feed element (50) is inserted into the interior (38) of the receiving device (12) and a medium, in particular a gas, especially preferably compressed air, is introduced via the feed element (50) into the interior (38) of the receiving device (12) until the threshold value of the pressure force is reached. [7] Method (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized by , that the opening area (44) has a predetermined breaking point (48), wherein the receiving device (12) tears open and / or bursts open at the predetermined breaking point (48) as soon as the threshold value is reached. [8] Method (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the opening mechanism comprises a heating device, wherein the wall (28) of the receiving device (12) is heated by means of the heating device at least within an opening area (44), in particular directly or indirectly, wherein when a melting temperature of at least one material component of the wall (28), in particular within the opening area (44), is reached, the wall (28) is opened at least partially. [9] Method (10) according to claim 8, characterized by , that the heating device is configured to heat the coating medium (36) by microwaves and / or infrared radiation, wherein the coating medium (36) is heated by the heating device to the melting temperature of the at least one material component. [10] Method (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by, that the heating device comprises a heating element, wherein the heating element is designed as a wire, wherein the wire is arranged at the opening region (44) and / or extends along a direction of extension of the opening region (44), wherein the wire is heated to the melting temperature of the at least one material component by current or inductive heating. [11] Method (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by , that the heating device heats the body component (14) on which the receiving device (12) is arranged, in particular glued, to the melting temperature of the at least one material component. [12] Method (10) according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized by, that the receiving device (12) in the interior (38) comprises a chamber which is at least partially connected to the opening area (44), wherein a phase change material is received in the chamber, wherein the phase change material is stimulated by an activation device of the opening mechanism to undergo a phase change and to heat the at least one material component to the melting temperature. [13] Method (10) according to claim 12, characterized by , that the activation device emits ultrasonic waves directed at the phase change material to stimulate the phase change or performs a vibration of the chamber or the recording device (12). [14] Method (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the coating medium (36) comprises particles, in particular microparticles, wherein the particles are designed as sharp-edged particles, wherein the opening mechanism comprises a movement device, wherein the particles in the interior (38) of the receiving device (12) are stimulated to move by the movement device and the wall (28) is opened at least partially, in particular within an opening area (44), by the action of the sharp-edged particles on the wall (28) of the receiving device (12). [15] Method (10) according to claim 14, characterized by , that the motion device emits microwaves and / or ultrasonic waves and / or acoustic waves to stimulate the movement of the particles and / or performs a frequency excitation of the at least one body component (14) on which the receiving device (12) is arranged.

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