Latch device and steering apparatus and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a latching device (2, 24) having a first latching unit (7, 25) and at least one second latching unit (8, 26), wherein the first tooth (14) of the first latching unit is formed for achieving an interlocking latching connection with the second tooth (28) of the second latching unit, and the first tooth (14) of the first latching unit (7, 25) has a first tooth tip (17) in each case, wherein the first tooth tip (17) forms a first tooth ridge (18) extending in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14). In order to reliably resolve tooth-to-tooth situations and to be able to achieve the desired interlocking latching connection, the first tooth ridge (18) is designed to be curved in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14), the first tooth ridge having a curved portion (19) and a straight portion (20). The invention also relates to a steering device and a method for producing an interlocking latching connection by means of a latching device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a latching device having a first latching unit and having at least one second latching unit, wherein the first tooth of the first latching unit is formed for achieving an interlocking latching connection with the second tooth of the second latching unit and the first tooth of the first latching unit has in each case a first tooth tip, wherein the first tooth tip forms a first tooth ridge extending in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth. The invention also relates to a steering device for a vehicle and having a steering column, which is arranged on a support and can be adjusted on the support, and the support has the aforementioned latching device. The invention also relates to a method for producing an interlocking latching connection by means of the latching device mentioned in the opening paragraph, wherein the first latching unit and the second latching unit are moved towards each other, wherein the first tooth of the first latching unit and the second tooth of the second latching unit face each other. Background Art

[0002] Such a latching device, deflecting arrangement and / or method is known from EP 3 172 114 B1.

[0003] The inclination, height, and / or length of the steering column of a steering device can be adjusted via an adjustable bracket. As a result, the position of the steering wheel on the steering column can be adapted to the needs of the user or driver. A latching device can be used to lock or latch the steering column in a desired position. In this case, the teeth of the first latch unit and the teeth of the second latch unit interlock with each other.

[0004] However, it is possible that, in the desired position of the steering column, the first tooth tip of the first tooth rests on the second tooth tip of the second tooth. In this tooth-to-tooth situation, the teeth of the first latch unit and the teeth of the second latch unit do not directly engage with each other. On the contrary, there is a risk that, in the tooth-to-tooth situation, the first tooth of the first latch unit will not engage with the second tooth of the second latch unit. This may prevent the steering column from being effectively locked or latched in the desired position, in particular by means of an interlocking latch connection between the first tooth and the second tooth. In addition, if the driver or the user applies too much force in order to force the latching or locking in the tooth-to-tooth situation, there is a risk of damaging the tooth tips. Alternatively, there is a risk that the driver will have to actuate the adjustment mechanism for adjusting the steering column again and find a slightly different setting in order to avoid the tooth-to-tooth situation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to further develop a latching device, a steering apparatus and / or a method of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that the tooth-on-tooth situation can be reliably resolved and the desired interlocking latching connection can be achieved. In particular, alternative embodiments will be provided.

[0006] The object is achieved by a latching device having a first latching unit and having at least a second latching unit, wherein the first tooth of the first latching unit is formed for achieving an interlocking latching connection with the second tooth of the second latching unit, and the first tooth of the first latching unit has a first tooth tip in each case, wherein the first tooth tip forms a first tooth ridge extending in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth, the first tooth ridge being designed to be curved in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth, the first tooth ridge having a curved portion and a straight portion.

[0007] The object is also achieved by a steering device for a vehicle and comprising a steering column which is arranged on a bracket and is adjustable on the bracket, and the bracket comprises a latching device according to the invention.

[0008] The object is also solved by a method for producing an interlocking latch connection by means of a latching device of the present invention, wherein the first latching unit and the second latching unit are moved toward each other, wherein the first tooth of the first latching unit and the second tooth of the second latching unit face each other, and in a tooth-to-tooth situation, a sub-area of ​​the first tooth ridge first abuts against a sub-area of ​​the second tooth ridge, and then the tooth-to-tooth situation is solved by the first tooth ridge, and then the first tooth and the second tooth are engaged in an interlocking manner, the first tooth ridge being designed to bend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth, and the first tooth ridge having a curved portion and a straight portion.

[0009] The latching device comprises a first latching unit with a first tooth and at least one second latching unit with a second tooth. The first and second teeth are designed to interact with each other and form an interlocking latch connection between the first and second latching units. Depending on the specific design of the latching device, the latching device may include a third latching unit or additional latching units. In particular, the first latching unit interacts with the second latching unit, the third latching unit, and / or the additional latching unit. The first tooth of the first latching unit each has a first tooth tip. In particular, the first tooth each has a single tooth tip. This first tooth tip forms a first tooth ridge extending in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth. The first tooth of the first latching unit and the second tooth row of the second latching unit each preferably extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first and / or second tooth, or at right angles to the longitudinal direction. The tooth row of the first latching unit is formed by a plurality of first teeth, and the tooth row of the second latching unit is formed by a plurality of second teeth. According to the present invention, the first tooth ridge is designed to be at least partially curved.

[0010] The advantage in this case is that, since the first tooth ridge is at least partially curved in the tooth-on-tooth situation, only a subsection of the first tooth ridge abuts or rests on the second tooth tip of the second tooth, or a subsection of the second tooth ridge of the second tooth. In this way, a latching device design can be implemented that allows the tooth-on-tooth situation to be resolved.

[0011] The first tooth ridge is preferably designed to bend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth or at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth. The first tooth ridge can be designed to bend over its entire length in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth. In particular, the first tooth ridge has a curved portion and a straight portion. The curved first tooth ridge or the curved portion of the first tooth ridge can have a constant radius or a varying radius. The first tooth preferably has two tooth flanks facing away from each other. In particular, these tooth flanks each have a surface height which extends from the tooth root of the first tooth on the respective tooth flank surface to the first tooth tip or to the first tooth ridge. In particular, the surface height is aligned at right angles to the tooth end on the surface.

[0012] Because the tooth ridge curves in the direction of the second tooth tip facing away from the first tooth tip, a first surface height of the first tooth flank of the first tooth can continuously increase, starting from the first tooth tip of the first tooth. Correspondingly, a second tooth flank of the first tooth, starting from the first tooth tip in the direction of the second tooth tip, has a continuously decreasing second surface height. If the first tooth ridge has a straight portion adjoining the curved portion, the surface height remains constant in the region of the straight portion.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the first tooth ridge has a tooth height that decreases, in particular continuously, at least partially, starting from the first tooth tip in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth and in the direction of the second tooth tip of the first tooth facing away from the first tooth tip. A tooth height that decreases continuously over the entire length of the first tooth ridge in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth can be achieved. The first tooth ridge preferably has a first subsection with a continuously decreasing tooth height and another section with a constant tooth height. In particular, the continuously decreasing tooth height is limited to the curved portion of the first tooth ridge. The straight portion of the first tooth ridge preferably has a constant tooth height. Thus, starting from the first tooth tip in the direction of the second tooth tip, the first tooth can have not only a first tooth ridge that changes in shape and / or its stroke, but also a varying tooth height. In particular, in tooth-to-tooth situations, this prevents the entire first tooth ridge from abutting or resting on the second tooth ridge of the second tooth. This makes it easier to resolve tooth-to-tooth situations. The first tooth tip and / or the second tooth tip can have end faces. In particular, the end faces of the first tooth tip and the second tooth tip face away from each other. The end faces of the first tooth end and the second tooth end can be parallel to or obliquely aligned with each other. In particular, when there are a plurality of first teeth, when the end faces of the corresponding first teeth are obliquely aligned with each other, a curved tooth row is formed.

[0014] The curved first tooth ridge and / or the curved portion of the first tooth ridge preferably extend in the direction of the second tooth end from the first tooth end and from the maximum tooth height of the first tooth. In particular, the first tooth ridge has a first subsection with a preferably continuously decreasing tooth height and a further subsection with a constant tooth height. The tooth height preferably decreases continuously in the direction of the second tooth end and over the course of the curved first tooth ridge and / or the curved portion of the first tooth ridge. In this case, in particular in the direction of the second tooth end, the curved portion can merge into the straight portion of the first tooth ridge. The straight portion of the first tooth ridge can have a constant tooth height corresponding to the lowest tooth height of the curved portion.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the first latching unit can be pivoted about an inclined axis, which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth or aligned at right angles to the longitudinal direction. The inclined axis can be an inclined axis of virtual or real design. In particular, the first latching unit can be pivoted about an inclined axis within a range of less than 10° or an angle within a range of 5° to 10°. In order to achieve the pivoting of the first latching unit, the first latching unit can be mounted in a suitable manner. In particular, the first latching unit has a predetermined freedom of movement or clearance outside the interlocking latch connection with the second latching unit in order to achieve the desired pivoting. As an alternative or in addition, the second latching unit can be pivoted about an inclined axis, which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the second tooth or aligned at right angles to the longitudinal direction. However, the second latching unit is preferably fixed.

[0016] The second tooth of the second latching unit preferably has a second tooth tip in each case. In this case, the second tooth tip forms a straight and / or curved second tooth ridge extending in the longitudinal direction of the second tooth. The entire length of the second tooth ridge can be designed as a straight line. Alternatively, the second tooth ridge can be designed to be curved over its entire length, or over a part of its entire length. The curvature and / or bending radius of the second tooth ridge is preferably different from the curvature and / or bending radius of the first tooth. In particular, the second tooth has a single tooth ridge in each case. Preferably, in order to achieve an interlocking latching connection, the tooth flank of the second tooth is designed to correspond in shape to the tooth flank of the first tooth. Thus, in the interlocking latching connection, the tooth flank of the second tooth abuts against the tooth flank of the first tooth. Preferably, the first latching unit and the second latching unit are arranged so that they cannot move relative to each other in an effective interlocking latching connection and in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the teeth of the first latching unit and the second latching unit, or at right angles to this longitudinal direction.

[0017] A steering system for a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, comprising a steering column, which is arranged on a bracket and is adjustable thereon, and which also includes a latching device according to the present invention, is particularly advantageous. The steering system preferably includes a steering wheel. The steering wheel of the steering system can be connected to the vehicle's running wheels, particularly mechanically, electromechanically, or via steer-by-wire. In this case, the running wheels can be moved or centered by turning the steering wheel via the steering system. This allows the driver or user to control the direction of travel while the vehicle is in motion. In particular, the steering column is adjustably attached to the bracket. The steering column can be adjusted in terms of inclination, height, and / or length via an adjustable bracket. This allows the position of the steering wheel to be adjusted according to the driver's height or ergonomics. The steering system preferably includes an adjustment mechanism. This adjustment mechanism can be used to implement the adjustment function of the adjustable bracket. In particular, the adjustment mechanism includes a latching device according to the present invention. In addition, the adjustment mechanism can include a joystick. The adjustment mechanism allows the steering column, and therefore the steering wheel, to be adjusted in terms of inclination, height, and / or distance from the driver. To perform the adjustment, the joystick can be used to release the adjustment mechanism. At the same time, the latching mechanism is released, for example, by lifting the first latching unit from the second latching unit. After the adjustment has been made, the adjustment mechanism is fixed or blocked by the operating lever. In this manner, the first and second latching units are moved toward each other to achieve the interlocking latching connection until the first and second teeth engage. Due to the latching mechanism according to the present invention, any tooth-on-tooth situations that may arise are automatically resolved, ensuring a reliable interlocking latching connection.

[0018] Furthermore, a method for producing an interlocking latching connection by means of a latching device according to the invention is advantageous. In this case, the first latching unit and the second latching unit are moved towards each other, wherein the first tooth of the first latching unit and the second tooth of the second latching unit face each other. If a tooth-to-tooth situation occurs, a sub-region of the first tooth ridge first abuts against a sub-region of the second tooth ridge. The tooth-to-tooth situation is then resolved by the first tooth ridge, which is at least partially bent. The first tooth and the second tooth then engage in an interlocking manner, in particular automatically. Thus, a desired interlocking latching connection of the two latching units can also be implemented based on a tooth-to-tooth situation.

[0019] In the tooth-to-tooth position, the first tooth ridge abuts the straight second tooth ridge at the first tooth end of the second tooth, the first tooth ridge preferably being curved at the first tooth end of the first tooth and in the region of the first tooth having the greatest tooth height. The first latching unit is then pivoted or tilted about a tilting axis, which is aligned transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth or at right angles to the longitudinal direction as the first and second latching units continue to move toward each other.

[0020] Due to the inclination of the first latching unit, the area of ​​the first tooth ridge assigned to the second tooth end of the first tooth facing away from the first tooth end is preferably in contact with the tooth face of the second tooth. When the first latching unit and the second latching unit continue to move toward each other, the first latching unit and the second latching unit are subsequently displaced transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth and the second tooth. In particular, the tooth face of the first tooth and the tooth face of the second tooth slide on each other in the area of ​​the second tooth end. This solves the tooth-to-tooth situation at the first tooth end of the first tooth and the second tooth. Therefore, the first tooth and the second tooth can ultimately be interlocked in an interlocking manner so as to achieve a latching connection. In particular, when the first latching unit and the second latching unit move transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth and the second tooth, the first latching unit and the second latching unit are displaced in opposite directions to each other. Preferably, only the first latching unit moves to solve the tooth-to-tooth situation. The second latching unit can be firmly attached to the bracket. In particular, the first latch unit and / or the second latch unit are designed, supported, and / or arranged to have sufficient freedom of movement or play to allow displacement transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first and second teeth. After the tooth-on-tooth situation has been resolved, the first latch unit can be pivoted about the tilt axis back to its original orientation. In particular, the original orientation corresponds to the orientation of the first latch unit before pivoting about the tilt axis to resolve the tooth-on-tooth situation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The present invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this case, like reference numerals refer to like, similar or functionally identical parts or elements. In the drawings:

[0022] Figure 1 is a front view of a steering device having a latching device according to the present invention,

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective front view of a first tooth of a latching device according to the invention,

[0024] Figure 3 is based on Figure 2 A schematic side view of the first tooth of

[0025] Figure 4 is a side view of a latch device according to the present invention,

[0026] Figure 5 is based on Figure 4 a first partially transparent perspective front view of a latching device according to the invention,

[0027] Figure 6 is based on Figure 4 a second partially transparent perspective front view of a latching device according to the invention,

[0028] Figure 7 is based on Figures 4 to 6 Two front views of a latching device according to the invention with respect to implementing a first latching connection from a first non-tooth-on-tooth situation,

[0029] Figure 8 is based on Figures 4 to 6 Two front views of the latching device according to the present invention with respect to implementing a second latching connection from a second non-tooth-on-tooth situation,

[0030] Figure 9 is based on Figures 4 to 6 a first front view and a partially transparent first perspective front view of a latching device according to the invention with respect to implementing a further latching connection from a tooth-to-tooth situation,

[0031] Figure 10 is based on Figures 4 to 6 The latch device according to the present invention is Figure 9 a second perspective front view of two partially transparent portions of a tooth-on-tooth case implementing another latch connection, and

[0032] Figure 11 is based on Figures 4 to 6 The latch device according to the present invention is Figure 9 A tooth-on-tooth case implementing another latch connection is shown in a perspective front view of two further partially transparent first portions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Figure 1 A front view of a steering device 1 having a latching device 2 according to the present invention is shown. The steering device 1 is designed to be arranged in a motor vehicle (not shown in detail in this case). To this end, the steering device 1 can be arranged on a vehicle support member (not shown in detail in this case), such as a vehicle cross member. The steering device 1 has a steering column 3 (in this case only schematically indicated). At the free end of the steering column 3, a steering wheel (not shown in this case) can be arranged or will be arranged. The steering column 3 is arranged on a bracket 4. In this case, the position of the steering column 3, and therefore the position of the steering wheel connected to the steering column 3, can be adjusted. To this end, the steering device 1 has an adjustment mechanism 5. The adjustment mechanism 5 includes, in particular, a joystick 6, which is only shown schematically in this case. The inclination, height, and / or length of the steering column 3 can be adjusted by means of the adjustment mechanism 5. To allow such adjustment, the adjustment mechanism 5 or the latching device 2 is released by means of the joystick 6. After the adjustment has been carried out, the adjustment mechanism 5 or the latching device 2 is fixed or blocked by means of the joystick 6. Therefore, the latching device 2 is an integral part of the adjustment mechanism 5.

[0034] The latching device 2 has a first latching unit 7. In this embodiment, the first latching unit 7 interacts on two sides facing away from each other with a second latching unit 8 on the one hand and with a third latching unit 9 on the other hand. The basic structure and mode of operation of the first latching unit 7 interacting with the second latching unit 8 or with the third latching unit 9 are described in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0035] In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 5 includes an actuating lever 10. The operating lever 6 is arranged in the region of a first end of the actuating lever 10. A releasable fixing support 11 for the actuating lever 10 is arranged in the region of a second end of the actuating lever 10, facing away from the first end. The actuating lever 10 penetrates two retaining flanges 12, 13 of the bracket 4. The steering column 3 is arranged between the two retaining flanges 12, 13 and is retained by the actuating lever 10. In this embodiment, the actuating lever 10 also penetrates the latching units 7, 8, and 9. In this case, the third latching unit 9 is designed as an integral part of the retaining flange 13.

[0036] When the adjustment mechanism 5 is released by means of the operating lever 6, the latching units 7, 8, 9 are released from one another or lifted up in such a way that the steering column 3 can be adjusted. When the adjustment mechanism 5 is fixed by means of the operating lever 6, a corresponding interlocking latching connection is achieved between the latching units 7, 8, 9, so that the steering column 3 is fixed in the adjusted position.

[0037] Figure 2 A latching device according to the invention (not shown in this case) is shown, for example according to Figure 1 Schematic perspective front view of the first tooth 14 of the latching device 2.

[0038] The first tooth 14 has a first tooth end 15 and a second tooth end 16 facing away from the first tooth end 15. The longitudinal direction of the first tooth 14 runs from the first tooth end 15 in the direction of the second tooth end 16. The first tooth 14 has a first tooth tip 17. The first tooth tip 17 forms a first tooth ridge 18 extending in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth 14. In this embodiment, this first tooth ridge 18 is designed to be partially curved. In this case, the first tooth ridge 18 is designed to be curved in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth 14. In this embodiment, the first tooth ridge 18 has a curved portion 19 and a straight portion 20.

[0039] The first tooth 14 has two tooth flanks 21, 22 that are arranged facing away from one another. The tooth flanks 21, 22 each have a surface height formed between the tooth root 23 of the first tooth 14 and the first tooth ridge 18. Starting from the first tooth tip 15 in the direction of the second tooth tip 16, the surface height of the first tooth flank 21 increases continuously in the region of the bend 19. On the other hand, starting from the first tooth tip 15 in the direction of the second tooth tip 16, the surface height of the second tooth flank 22 decreases continuously in the region of the bend 19. Furthermore, in the region of the bend 19, the inclination angle of the tooth flanks 21, 22 changes continuously from the first tooth tip 15 in the direction of the second tooth tip 16.

[0040] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 2 Schematic side view of a first tooth 14. A first tooth ridge 18 has a tooth height that decreases continuously from the first tooth end 15 in the direction of the second tooth end 16 and in a curved section 19. Accordingly, the first tooth 14 has a maximum tooth height in the region of the first tooth end 15. In the region of the second tooth end 16, the first tooth 14 has a minimum tooth height. In this case, the curved section 19 merges into a straight section 20 having a constant tooth height, which simultaneously corresponds to the minimum or lowest tooth height of the curved section 19.

[0041] Figure 4 2 is a side view of a latching device 24 according to the present invention. The latching device 24 has a first latching unit 25 and a second latching unit 26. The two latching units 25, 26 are designed to achieve an interlocking latching connection with each other, and the two latching units 25, 26 are arranged to be disengaged from each other, as shown in this case.

[0042] It can be seen that the first latch unit 25 has a first tooth 14. Regarding the structure of the first tooth 14, and to avoid repetition, reference is made to the previous Figure 2 and Figure 3 Description.

[0043] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 4 1 . A first partially transparent perspective front view of a latching device 24 according to the invention. The first latching unit 25 has a plurality of first teeth 14. As a result, the first latching unit 25 has a first row of teeth 27.

[0044] The second latching unit 26 has a second tooth 28. For the sake of clarity, not all second teeth 28 are provided with reference numerals. The plurality of second teeth 28 of the second latching unit 26 form a second tooth row 29. The first tooth 14 of the first latching unit 25 and the second tooth 28 of the second latching unit 26 face each other. The second teeth 28 each have a second tooth tip 30. The second tooth tip 30 forms a straight second tooth ridge 31 extending in the longitudinal direction of the respective second tooth 28. The second tooth 28 each has two tooth flanks 32, 33 facing away from each other. The tooth flanks 32, 33 of the second tooth 28 are formed in a shape corresponding to the tooth flanks 21, 22 of the first tooth 14 in order to achieve an interlocking latching connection.

[0045] Figure 6 is based on Figure 4 2 , a second, partially transparent, perspective front view of a latching device 24 according to the invention. In each case, a tooth valley 34 is formed between two second teeth 28. The tooth valley 34 is designed to be received in an interlocking manner corresponding to the travel of the first tooth ridge 18 of the first tooth 14.

[0046] Figure 7 Shown according to Figures 4 to 6 Two front views of a latching device 24 according to the present invention regarding the implementation of a first latching connection from a first non-tooth-on-tooth situation.

[0047] Figure 7 The upper diagram of the embodiment shows a latching device 24 in which the latching units 25, 26 are spaced apart from one another. The latching units 25, 26 are arranged offset from one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the teeth 14, 28 or at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the teeth. Figure 7 Starting from the upper illustration of FIG, the latch units 25, 26 move toward each other. Due to the non-tooth-to-tooth situation, the second tooth flank 22 of the first tooth 14 is in each case in contact with the tooth flank 32 of the corresponding second tooth 28, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in the lower diagram of . Via the interaction of the tooth surfaces 22 , 32 , the first tooth 14 and the second tooth 28 are interlockingly latched to each other without any hindrance.

[0048] Figure 8 is based on Figures 4 to 6 Two front views of a latching device 24 according to the present invention regarding the implementation of a second latching connection from a second non-tooth-on-tooth situation.

[0049] Figure 8 The upper diagram of the embodiment shows a latching device 24 in which the latching units 25, 26 are spaced apart from one another. The latching units 25, 26 are arranged offset from one another in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the teeth 14, 28 or at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the teeth. Figure 8Starting from the upper illustration of FIG, the latch units 25, 26 move toward each other. Due to the non-tooth-to-tooth situation, the second tooth flank 21 of the first tooth 14 is in each case in contact with the tooth flank 33 of the corresponding second tooth 28, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown in the lower diagram of . Via the interaction of the tooth surfaces 21 , 33 , the first tooth 14 and the second tooth 28 are interlockingly latched to each other without any hindrance.

[0050] Figure 9 is based on Figures 4 to 6 A first front view and a partially transparent first perspective front view of a latching device 24 according to the invention with respect to implementing a further latching connection from a tooth-to-tooth situation.

[0051] Figure 9 The upper illustration of shows a first front view in which the first latching unit 25 and the second latching unit 26 are moved relative to each other, wherein the first tooth 14 of the first latching unit and the second tooth 28 of the second latching unit face each other so that in the tooth-to-tooth situation shown in this case a sub-region of the first tooth ridge 18 first abuts a sub-region of the second tooth ridge 31. Figure 4 , in the tooth-to-tooth situation, the first tooth ridge 18 abuts against a straight second tooth ridge 31 at the first tooth end 15 of the second tooth 28, which is curved at the first tooth end of the first tooth 14 and in the area of ​​the first tooth 14 with the maximum tooth height.

[0052] When the first latching unit 25 and the further latching unit 26 subsequently continue to move towards each other, this tooth-on-tooth situation is then resolved by the first tooth ridge 18 being designed to be curved.

[0053] according to Figure 9 As shown in the lower part of the drawing, as the first latch unit 25 and the second latch unit 26 continue to move toward each other, the first latch unit 25 pivots about a tilting axis 35 that is aligned transversely to, or at right angles to (in this embodiment) the longitudinal direction of the first tooth 14. This creates a tilting angle 36 between the planes of the first latch unit 25 and the second latch unit 26. In this embodiment, this angle is in the range of 5° to 10°.

[0054] Figure 10 is based on Figures 4 to 6 The latching device 24 according to the present invention is Figure 9 A second perspective front view of the two partially transparent parts of a tooth-to-tooth case implementing another latch connection. Figure 10As shown in the lower part of FIG, due to the pivoting or tilting of the first latching unit 25 about the tilting axis 35, the area of ​​the first tooth ridge 18 of the first tooth 14 in each case contacts the tooth flank 33 of the facing second tooth 28. In this case, the contact area of ​​the first tooth ridge 18 is assigned to the second tooth end 16 of the first tooth 14. Figure 10 As shown in the lower illustration of FIG, as the first latching unit 25 and the second latching unit 26 continue to move toward each other, the first latching unit 25 and the second latching unit 26 are displaced opposite to each other relative to each other, in particular transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth 14 and the second tooth 28. In this case, the first tooth surface 21 of the first tooth 14 slides on the tooth surface 33 of the facing second tooth 28.

[0055] Figure 11 is based on Figures 4 to 6 The latching device 24 according to the present invention is Figure 9 A tooth-on-tooth situation implements another latch connection of two other partially transparent first perspective front views. In this case, Figure 11 The upper diagram shows the Figure 10 The lower part of the diagram shows the same situation, but in this case with a view of the first tooth end 15. It can be seen that, due to the sliding of the first tooth ridge 18 or the first tooth flank 21 along the first tooth 14 on the tooth flank 33 in the region of the second tooth end 16, the tooth-on-tooth situation in the region of the first tooth end 15 is resolved and, when the first latching unit 25 and the further latching unit 26 continue to move towards each other, the first tooth 14 engages in an interlocking manner with the second tooth 28.

[0056] This creates the desired interlocking latch connection between the first latch unit 25 and the second latch unit 26, as shown in FIG. Figure 11 In this end position, in this embodiment, after the tooth-to-tooth situation is resolved, the first latch unit 25 is preferably around the Figure 9 The lower illustrated tilt axis 35 is pivoted back to its original orientation.

[0057] according to Figure 1 The first latch unit 7 is in accordance with Figures 4 to 11 The first latch unit 25 is designed in the sense of Figure 1 The second latch unit 8 and the third latch unit 9 are respectively in each case in accordance with Figures 4 to 11 The second latching unit 26 is designed in the sense of the second latching unit 26.

[0058] List of Reference Numerals

[0059] 1 Steering equipment

[0060] 2 Latch mechanism

[0061] 3 Steering column

[0062] 4 brackets

[0063] 5. Adjustment mechanism

[0064] 6 Joystick

[0065] 7 First latch unit

[0066] 8 Second latch unit

[0067] 9 Third latch unit

[0068] 10 Fastening rod

[0069] 11 Fixed support

[0070] 12 Retention flange

[0071] 13 Retention flange

[0072] 14 First tooth

[0073] 15 First tooth end

[0074] 16 Second tooth end

[0075] 17 First tooth tip

[0076] 18 First ridge

[0077] 19 Bend

[0078] 20 straight part

[0079] 21 First tooth surface

[0080] 22 Second tooth surface

[0081] 23 tooth root

[0082] 24 Latch device

[0083] 25 First latch unit

[0084] 26 Second latch unit

[0085] 27 First tooth row

[0086] 28 Second tooth

[0087] 29 Second tooth row

[0088] 30 Second tooth tip

[0089] 31 Second tooth ridge

[0090] 32 tooth surface

[0091] 33 tooth surface

[0092] 34 Tooth Valley

[0093] 35 Tilt axis

[0094] 36 angles

Claims

1. A latching device comprising a first latching unit (7, 25) and at least one second latching unit (8, 26), wherein: The first tooth (14) of the first latching unit (7, 25) is formed for achieving an interlocking latching connection with the second tooth (28) of the second latching unit (8, 26), and the first tooth (14) of the first latching unit (7, 25) has a first tooth tip (17) in each case, wherein the first tooth tip (17) forms a first tooth ridge (18) extending in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14), characterized in that the first tooth ridge (18) is designed to be curved in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14), the first tooth ridge (18) having a curved portion (19) and a straight portion (20).

2. The latch device according to claim 1, wherein: The first tooth ridge (18) has a tooth height that continuously decreases in a curved portion (19) starting from a first tooth end (15) of the first tooth (14) in the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14) and in the direction of a second tooth end (16) of the first tooth (14) facing away from the first tooth end (15).

3. The latch device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The curved portion (19) of the first tooth ridge (18) extends from the first tooth end (15) and from the maximum tooth height of the first tooth (14) in the direction of the second tooth end (16), and the tooth height decreases continuously in the direction of the second tooth end (16) and in the course of the curved portion (19) of the first tooth ridge (18).

4. The latch device according to claim 3, wherein: The curved portion (19) merges into a straight portion (20) of the first tooth ridge (18).

5. The latch device according to claim 4, wherein: The straight portion (20) has a constant tooth height corresponding to the lowest tooth height of the curved portion (19).

6. The latch device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first latching unit (7, 25) is pivotable about a tilting axis (35) which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14) or aligned at right angles to the longitudinal direction.

7. The latch device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The second tooth (28) of the second latching unit (8, 26) has in each case a second tooth tip (30) which forms a straight and / or curved second tooth ridge (31) extending in the longitudinal direction of the second tooth (28).

8. The latch device according to claim 7, wherein: The tooth surfaces (32, 33) of the second teeth (28) are formed into shapes corresponding to the tooth surfaces (21, 22) of the first teeth (14) so ​​as to achieve the interlocking latch connection.

9. A steering device for a vehicle having a steering column (3), the steering column (3) being arranged on a bracket (4) and adjustable on the bracket, and the bracket (4) having a latching device (2, 24) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A method for producing an interlocking latching connection by means of a latching device (2, 24) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The first latch unit (7, 25) and the second latch unit (8, 26) move toward each other, wherein the first tooth (14) of the first latch unit and the second tooth (28) of the second latch unit face each other, characterized in that, in a tooth-to-tooth situation, a sub-area of ​​the first tooth ridge (18) first abuts against a sub-area of ​​the second tooth ridge (31), and then the tooth-to-tooth situation is resolved by the first tooth ridge (18), and then the first tooth (14) and the second tooth (28) engage in an interlocking manner, the first tooth ridge (18) being designed to bend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14), and the first tooth ridge (18) having a curved portion (19) and a straight portion (20).

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that In the tooth-to-tooth situation, the first tooth ridge (18) abuts the second tooth ridge (31) at the first tooth end of the second tooth (28), the first tooth ridge is at least partially bent at the first tooth end (15) of the first tooth (14) and in the area of ​​the first tooth (14) with the maximum tooth height, and the first latch unit (7, 25) pivots about an inclined axis (35), and when the first latch unit (7, 25) and the second latch unit (8, 26) continue to move toward each other, the inclined axis is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14) or aligned at right angles to the longitudinal direction.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that Due to the pivoting of the first latching unit (7, 25), the area of ​​the first tooth ridge (18) assigned to the second tooth end (16) of the first tooth (14) facing away from the first tooth end (15) contacts the tooth surface (33) of the second tooth (28), and when the first latching unit (7, 25) and the second latching unit (8, 26) continue to move toward each other, the first latching unit (7, 25) and the second latching unit (8, 26) are shifted relative to each other and transversely to the longitudinal direction of the first tooth (14) and the second tooth (28), whereby the tooth-to-tooth situation at the first tooth end (15) of the first tooth (14) and the second tooth (28) disappears, and subsequently, the first tooth (14) and the second tooth (28) are engaged in an interlocking manner.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that After the tooth-on-tooth situation is resolved, the first latch unit (7, 25) is pivoted back to its original orientation about the tilt axis (35).

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