Drive for adjusting elements of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to an actuator for adjusting an adjusting element (2), particularly a valve, for adjusting a motor vehicle (3), wherein the actuator (1) has a drive unit (4), which, as a component for transmitting driving force, has a hollow cylinder (5) and a rod (6) axially guided therein, wherein the actuator (1) has two joint components (8, 9) adjustable relative to each other along a geometric drive axis (7) between an in-drive position and an out-drive position for deriving linear drive motion to the motor vehicle (3), which respectively form drive couplings (12, 11) with mating joint components (10, 11) on the motor vehicle side. 3) For connection with the adjusting element (2) on one hand and with the motor vehicle (3) on the other hand, one of the joint components (8) is axially fixedly connected to the first, especially the hollow cylinder (5), of the components (5,6) of the drive unit (4) and the other joint component (9) is axially fixedly connected to the second, especially the rod (6), of the components (5,6) of the drive unit (4) in the assembled state, and wherein the driver (1) has a drive spring assembly (14) with at least one drive spring (15) acting on the two joint components (8,9). It is proposed that, in the assembled state, at least one of the components (5,6) of the drive unit (4), especially both of the components (5,6) of the drive unit (4), is axially fixedly connected to the stop element via a threaded connection, and the stop element (16) extends radially into the axial projection (P) of the spring material of the drive spring assembly (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjustment element for adjusting a motor vehicle, particularly a valve actuator, and a method for assembling the actuator. Background Technology

[0002] The concept of "adjusting element" should be understood broadly. Examples include, for instance, clappers (sometimes also called flaps), such as tailgates, tailgates, hoods, side doors, cargo doors, or sliding doors of motor vehicles.

[0003] Different types of actuators are known for adjusting such adjusting elements, such as tailgates. Thus, motor-driven and motorless, and especially spring-driven, actuators are known. Motor-driven actuators are, for example, spindle actuators, which drive a spindle nut transmission mechanism via a drive motor as a feed transmission mechanism for generating linear drive motion. Motorless actuators particularly have a gas pressure spring, comprising a drive unit with a gas-filled gas pressure spring cylinder and a gas pressure spring piston rod, i.e., a push rod with a piston at the end side, axially guided therein. The gas filling the cylinder is then pressure-loaded, thereby providing the spring force. This drive unit may also be additionally supported by a drive spring assembly with at least one drive spring, especially a helical spring, such as a helical compression spring, which provides additional spring force.

[0004] The known actuator (DE 10 2008 061 117 A1) from which this invention originates has such a drive unit in the form of a gas pressure spring. The drive unit is radially surrounded by a drive spring assembly with a drive spring in the form of a helical pressure spring. The actuator, in order to derive linear drive motion to the vehicle, has two joint members that are adjustable relative to each other along the geometric drive axis between an entry position and an exit position, each forming a drive connection with a mating joint member on the vehicle side for connection to an adjusting element and, furthermore, to the vehicle. One joint member is axially fixedly connected to the hollow cylinder of the drive unit, i.e., the gas pressure spring cylinder, and the other joint member is axially fixedly connected to the rod of the drive unit, i.e., the rod with a gas pressure spring piston. Metal plates are respectively provided between the respective joint members and the drive unit, where the drive spring of the drive spring assembly is axially supported to transmit the spring force to the joint member.

[0005] The actuator housing, designed from plastic material, bends inward at both axial ends, thus forming a bottom that faces the joint components and stops the corresponding metal plates relative to the spring force of the drive spring assembly. Another axial stop, in the assembled state in the vehicle, forms the two joint components themselves, which are respectively connected to the associated components of the gas pressure spring, namely, the gas pressure spring cylinder on one hand and the gas pressure spring piston rod on the other. However, a problem arises in the event of damage to the housing and joint components, such as in a fire, where there is a risk of undesirable expansion of the drive spring of the drive spring assembly, because the two metal plates may then no longer, or in any case, have sufficient axial retention.

[0006] It is also known that a metal body is provided for the axial support of the drive spring in the drive spring assembly. This metal body is clamped to the drive unit's force-transmitting component, namely the hollow cylinder and the rod axially guided therein, so as to axially stop the metal body at the drive unit and thereby prevent undesirable expansion of the drive spring. This metal body is then typically cast in plastic material to form the associated joint component. The corresponding actuator is relatively complex in construction and has a high number of parts. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention addresses the problem by designing and improving known drivers in a way that ensures high operational safety while maintaining a simple construction.

[0008] The aforementioned problems are solved in the case of the adjustment element for adjusting motor vehicles, particularly the actuator of a valve, according to the present invention, by the features described below.

[0009] The key idea is to axially stop the spring assembly at the associated force-transmitting component of the drive unit via a stop element. The stop element extends radially into the spring material of the drive spring assembly, particularly the drive spring closest to it axially, i.e., an imaginary extension of the spring wire forming the spring winding. The concept of "axial" here refers to the direction of extension of the spring's centerline or geometric drive axis. The imaginary extension of the spring material, "projected" here, extends circumferentially around the geometric drive axis. On the one hand, this ensures particularly simple assembly, as the corresponding stop element simply needs to be screwed on. On the other hand, components of the drive unit are typically designed to be stable and not melt so quickly in a fire. Of course, when the stop element is also designed to be fire-resistant, the joint components can melt without posing a danger through the spring assembly.

[0010] It is described in detail that, in the assembled state, at least one component of the drive unit, particularly two components of the drive unit, is axially fixedly connected to the stop element via a threaded connection, and the stop element extends radially into the axial projection of the spring material of the drive spring assembly.

[0011] By setting a threaded connection, a simple assembly combining a stop function and a stable connection is achieved, which is especially directly set between the components of the stop element and the drive unit.

[0012] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, components of the drive unit are connected to associated joint components via stop elements. This results in a particularly simple assembly of the joint components and stop elements at the components of the drive unit, especially when both are rotatable.

[0013] One design of the present invention relates to a preferred arrangement of the stopping element along the drive axis. This provides a good stop for simple assembly.

[0014] One aspect of the invention relates to a preferred design of the form of the stop element, chosen such that torsional stop of the stop element and thus the components of the drive unit relative to the joint components is preferably achieved. Another feasible solution for achieving torsional stop is described below.

[0015] One design of the invention relates to an axial fortsatz of a hollow cylinder body onto which a stop element can be screwed. From this design further derives a design in which the axial fortsatz has an axial end section with a reduced cross-section. This can have several functions. On the one hand, it is preferably used as a insertion aid during assembly; on the other hand, it can improve torque required for loosening rotation of threaded connections when engaged with corresponding receptacles of associated joint components. Additionally, it can be used to center the hollow cylinder body about the joint components.

[0016] One design of the invention relates to a preferred type of threaded connection. According to one design of the invention, the threaded connection can be rotationally stopped relative to loosening. In a particularly preferred embodiment, this occurs via a torsional stop section, which can be formed by an axial end section.

[0017] One design of the invention relates to a drive housing and preferred components thereof. For centering of at least one component of the drive unit in the axial direction, one of the housing tubes may have a centering collar. This centering collar, in particular in conjunction with assembly aids, forms another preferred design.

[0018] One design of the present invention relates to a preferred feasible solution for water management of a drive.

[0019] One design of the present invention relates to a design scheme for a drive spring assembly, a stop element, and a drive unit.

[0020] According to another teaching of the present invention, which has independent significance, a method for assembling a driver is claimed. This method is particularly used for assembling a driver according to the proposed method. Reference is permitted to all embodiments for the proposed driver.

[0021] In this method, it is important to set up the connection between the internal housing tube and the associated joint components, drive unit and spring assembly, especially for its centering collar, which is set as an assembly aid.

[0022] One design of the present invention relates to the assembly of a stop element. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Below, the invention is illustrated in more detail with reference to drawings showing only one embodiment. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 The rear of a motor vehicle with a suggested drivetrain is shown in a schematic perspective view.

[0025] Figure 2 The cross-sectional view shows the position in the entry position according to Figure 1 According to the recommended driver,

[0026] Figure 3 The cross-sectional view shows the position at the departure point according to Figure 1 According to the recommended driver,

[0027] Figure 4 An enlarged perspective view shows the schematic diagram of the assembly process according to... Figure 1 Based on the details of the suggested driver, and

[0028] Figure 5 An enlarged perspective view shows the schematic diagram of the assembly process according to... Figure 1 Details of the alternative implementation forms of the proposed driver. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The actuator 1 shown in the drawings is constructed as a linear actuator, and hereby preferably designed as a gas pressure spring actuator in a manner to be further explained. In principle, actuator 1 can also be designed as a spindle actuator. The implementation of the gas pressure spring actuator thus also applies to the spindle actuator.

[0030] According to the proposed actuator 1, which is designed here as a gas pressure spring actuator, it is used to adjust the adjusting element 2, particularly the valve, of the motor vehicle 3 in a purely spring-driven manner without a motor. The adjusting element 2 is based on... Figure 1This is the tailgate of vehicle 3. Regarding other design options for adjusting element 2, refer to the examples listed in the introductory section of the instruction manual. As presented, multiple, particularly two, actuators 1 can also be provided here for adjusting adjusting element 2.

[0031] The driver 1 has a drive unit 4, which, as a component for transmitting driving force, has a hollow cylinder 5 and a rod 6 axially guided therein. The hollow cylinder 5 and the rod 6 are further pre-tightened relative to each other by gas filled into the hollow cylinder 5, here and preferably to the drive-out position.

[0032] To direct linear drive motion to vehicle 3, drive unit 1 has two joint components 8, 9 that are adjustable relative to each other along geometric drive axis 7 between entering and exiting positions, and which are hereby, and preferably, identical in structure. Figure 2 and 3 The upper joint component 8 and the mating joint component 10 on the vehicle side (which is arranged here at the adjusting element 2) together form a drive coupling 12 for connection with the adjusting element 2. Figure 2 and 3 The lower joint component 9, together with the mating joint component 11 on the vehicle side (which is located on the vehicle body here), forms a drive connection 13 for further connection with the vehicle 3. Preferably, both joint components 8 and 9 have spherical joints that are articulated with the ball joints of the corresponding mating joint components 10 and 11. It is also conceivable, in principle, that joint components 8 and 9 have ball joints and mating joint components 10 and 11 have spherical joints.

[0033] As in Figure 2 and 3 The enlarged detail illustration shows that a joint component 8 is associated with the first component of the drive unit 4, the hollow cylinder 5, and another joint component 9 is associated with the second component of the drive unit 4, the rod 6, which are axially fixedly connected in the assembled state. The axially fixed connection is further explained in more detail.

[0034] Additionally, the proposed actuator 1 has a drive spring assembly 14 with at least one drive spring 15, specifically one drive spring 15, which acts on the two joint members 8,9, i.e., preloaded thereon. The joint members 8,9 are preloaded relative to each other into the drive-out position by the drive spring assembly 14 and the gas filled into the hollow cylinder 5. The at least one drive spring 15, specifically one drive spring 15, is in particular a helical spring and, here and preferably a helical compression spring. In principle, according to embodiments not shown herein, it is also conceivable that, additionally or alternatively, a helical tension spring may be configured as a component of the drive spring assembly 14, in addition to the helical compression spring.

[0035] Importantly, in the assembled state, at least one of the components of the drive unit 4, particularly both components of the drive unit 4, is axially fixedly connected to the stop element 16 via a threaded connection, and the stop element 16 extends radially into the axial projection P of the spring material of the drive spring assembly 14.

[0036] When discussing “assembly state” here and elsewhere, it always means the state in which the drive unit is assembled. In this state, there is an axial form fit between the corresponding joint components 8, 9 and the associated components in two directions, that is, along the geometric drive axis 7, not only in the direction of the driving-in position but also in the direction of the driving-out position.

[0037] When the stop element 16 is provided along the drive axis 7 on both sides, the drive spring assembly 14 and especially the drive spring 15 are stopped to prevent sudden decompression in case of failure, especially in case of fire. From another embodiment, it also becomes advantageous to provide only a single stop element 16 as suggested. This particularly relates to the simple assembly of the stop element 16, which is not identical in the two joint components 8, 9. Accordingly, it can be concluded that there are more advantages to assembling it on one side than on the other.

[0038] To sense its stopping function, the stopping element 16 extends radially into the axial projection P of the spring material. Here, it is particularly the spring material of the drive spring 15. In particular, the preferred helical spring, especially the helical compression spring, is the projection of the spring winding away from the drive axis 7 by a certain radius in the projection P. The concept of "spring material" thus refers to the region of the drive spring assembly 14, in which the material of the drive spring 15 and, in particular, the spring winding, is actually contained.

[0039] Preferably, to simplify assembly, but also to improve the compactness and structural strength of the actuator 1, the components of the drive unit 4, particularly the two components of the drive unit 4, can be connected to the respective associated joint components 8, 9 via the stop element 16. Figure 2 and 3 The overview shows that this is where two components are set for driving unit 4. Exemplarily, this is in Figure 4 It is applicable to the hollow cylinder body 5 and the joint component 8 above it.

[0040] As in Figure 4 As shown in b), the stop element 16 is preferably housed in the joint components 8, 9. This and similar additional embodiments implemented only with respect to joint components 8, 9 are equally applicable to other joint components 8, 9.

[0041] Preferably, the joint components 8 and 9 are configured with a receiving portion 17, into which the stop element 16 is introduced radially. The introduction process is as follows: Figure 4 Presented in a).

[0042] In principle, it is advantageous in the proposed drive 1 that the different components are centered and retained as much as possible along the drive axis 7. This involves not only assembly, but also the fact that this centering is important during the operation of the drive 1, for example, when it is icy, in order to avoid damage to less stable components, especially plastic components, when the ice breaks and some of the components of the drive 1 perform sudden movements. Additionally, a well-centered drive 1 allows for the use of more cost-effective plastic components because they are more precise or subject to less load. The threaded connection, especially in combination with the receiving portion 17, contributes here as follows: it centers the components of the drive unit 4 about the joint components 8, 9. Accordingly, the stop element 16 is here and preferably designed such that it centers the components about the joint components 8, 9, especially, by means of the threaded connection oriented along the drive axis 7 and / or coaxial with it.

[0043] The corresponding joint components 8, 9 here and preferably have support sections 8a, 9a for connection with mating joint components 10, 11, here and preferably spherical joints, and connecting sections 8b, 9b spaced apart therefrom for connection with the respective associated components of the drive unit 4. The support sections 8a, 9a and the connecting sections 8b, 9b are connected via connecting sections 8c, 9c. Particularly preferably, the support sections 8a, 9a and the connecting sections 8c, 9c, preferably also together with the connecting sections 8b, 9b, are designed as a single-piece component. Here and preferably, the stop element 16 is accommodated in the connecting sections 8b, 9b. It is here and preferably constructed with a receiving portion 17.

[0044] Regarding the arrangement of the stop element 16 along the geometric drive axis 7, it is preferably arranged axially between the spring material and at least one section 8a, 8b, 8c, 9a, 9b, 9c of the corresponding joint components 8, 9, particularly the support sections 8a, 9a. Alternatively, the stop element 16 may be arranged between all the joint components 8, 9 and the spring material.

[0045] Preferably, the stop element 16 is axially, particularly in a form-fitting manner with respect to the corresponding joint components 8, 9 on both sides. Preferably, the stop element 16 is axially movable with little or no movement relative to the corresponding joint component 8, 9. For this purpose, the stop element 16 is preferably in direct contact with the joint component 8, 9.

[0046] It can be configured such that the stop element 16, in particular in conjunction with the receiving portion 17, provides torsional stop of the stop element 16 relative to the joint members 8, 9 and thus particularly the members of the drive unit 4 relative to the respective associated joint members 8, 9.

[0047] Generally, the stop element 16 is constructed radially, particularly disc-shaped. Here, the stop element 16 may have a substantially circular radial outer profile. However, it can also be configured such that the stop element 16 has a radial outer profile that differs from a circular shape. In particular, the stop element 16 may have a substantially elliptical or polygonal radial outer profile. This allows the stop element 16 to be torsionally stopped by the mating element 18, which is torsionally connected to or single-piece with the corresponding joint members 8,9. In embodiments, the mating element 18 is formed by or through the wall of the receiving portion 17.

[0048] As previously indicated, the hollow cylinder 5, and more specifically the axial end of the joint member 8 facing or connected thereto, is provided with an axial protrusion 19, which is axially fixed to the hollow cylinder 5.

[0049] The stop element 6 is then screwed onto the axial protrusion 19 in the assembled state. Preferably, the rod 6 also has the axial protrusion 19, which, however, is different from the reduced diameter relative to the rod 6 in the hollow cylinder body 5. All embodiments of the axial protrusion 19 of the hollow cylinder body 5 can be correspondingly applied to the axial protrusion 19 of the rod 6.

[0050] Preferably, the axial protrusion 19 has an axial end section 20 with a cross-section that is reduced in diameter relative to the inner diameter of the stop element 16. This reduction in cross-section, preferably in diameter, provides an insertion aid for simplifying the joint guidance of the stop element 16 and the axial protrusion 19 during assembly. Another preferred function of the axial end section 20 is further explained below.

[0051] The axial protrusion 19 and especially the axial end section 20 are here and preferably connected to the hollow cylinder 5 or rod 6 in a material-fitting, shape-fitting and / or force-fitting manner, or designed as a single piece with the hollow cylinder 5 or rod 6.

[0052] Preferably, the axial protrusion 19 and / or the axial end section 20 are engaged in a force-fit and / or material-fit engagement with the corresponding receiving portions 21 of the respective associated joint components 8, 9. The receiving portion 21 of the joint components 8, 9 serves a dual function. On the one hand, it is responsible for the radial centering of the components of the drive unit 4 relative to the joint components 8, 9 and thus simultaneously the stop element 16; on the other hand, the axial end section 20 is configured to have a surface profile 22, which provides torsional stop in conjunction with the corresponding receiving portion 21, including torsional resistance. Specifically, the surface profile 22 is grooved, particularly with multiple longitudinal grooves, and is made of metal and embedded in the receiving portion 21 of the joint components 8, 9, which is particularly made of plastic, during rotational movement.

[0053] The stopping of the drive unit 4 relative to the joint components 8, 9 is also provided by providing two axially spaced contact areas between the components of the drive unit 4 and the respective associated joint components 8, 9 via the axial end section 20 and the threaded connection with the stop element 16.

[0054] Preferably, the hollow cylinder body 5, particularly the axial protrusion 19 and / or the rod 6, has external threads 23. The stop element 16 preferably has a corresponding internal thread 24. The external threads 23 and the internal threads 24 then form a threaded connection in the assembled state. Preferably, at the axial protrusion 19, the threaded section 25 forming the external threads 23 is externally connected to the axial end section 20.

[0055] The threaded connection here is preferably stopped from rotational loosening, where known measures can be used. In particular, the threaded section 25 of the axially raised 19 may have a non-circular cross-section and / or be designed to be non-cylindrical in order to improve the loosening torque.

[0056] Additionally or alternatively, the hollow cylinder body 5, particularly the axial protrusion 19 and / or the rod 6, has a torsion stop section 26, which is engaged with, particularly in force and / or form fit, the corresponding receiving portions 27 of the respective associated joint members 8, 9. The torsion stop section 26 is hereby and preferably arranged axially outside the threaded section 25. Hereby and preferably, the axial end section 20 of the axial protrusion 19 forms the torsion stop section 26 and / or the receiving portion 21 corresponding to the axial end section 20 forms the receiving portion 27.

[0057] In another embodiment, the engagement of the internal thread 24 and the external thread 23 is designed to be self-locking along the loosening direction.

[0058] In addition, such as especially Figure 2 and 3As shown, the actuator 1 has an actuator housing 28 with two housing tubes, an inner housing tube 29 and an outer housing tube 30, which telescopically travel into each other when adjusted between an in-drive position and an out-of-drive position. The inner housing tube 29 and the outer housing tube 30 are here, and preferably, axially fixed to their respective associated joint components 8, 9. Here, the inner housing tube 29 is for... Figure 2 and 3 The lower joint component 9, and the outer housing tube 30 for Figure 2 and 3 The upper joint component 8 is axially fixed.

[0059] The drive spring assembly 14, which is formed by a single drive spring 15 but may also be formed by multiple drive springs 15, is arranged radially between the drive unit 4 and the driver housing 28. Here, in order to guide at least one, and here only one, drive spring 15, a spring guide tube 31 is arranged radially between the drive unit 4 and the drive spring assembly 14.

[0060] As shown in the figure, a spacer 32 may also be additionally provided between the drive spring 15 and the corresponding joint components 8, 9, where the drive spring 15 is supported.

[0061] The axial fixed connection between the inner housing tube 29 and the associated joint member 9 is here, and preferably, achieved through an axial form fit, such that the housing flange 33 is axially fixed between the axial stop of the joint member 9 and the drive spring assembly 14. This can be provided in addition to the connection via the stop element 16. Furthermore, it can be configured such that the respective inner housing tube 29 and outer housing tube 30 extend axially via and / or radially surround the respective stop element 16 in the assembled state. The stop element 16 is radially stopped in this way and is also not easily accessible from the outside. Since this radial stop is here, and preferably not necessary, it can also be used for purely visual purposes.

[0062] As in Figure 3 As shown in the enlarged view below, it can also be configured such that at least one of the inner housing tube 29 and the outer housing tube 30, especially the inner housing tube 29, has a centering collar 34, which extends radially within the inner housing tube 29 and the outer housing tube 30 in the axial direction along the respective associated components of the drive unit 4, especially the axial protrusion 19 or the rod 6, and preferably forms a receiving portion 35 for the radially extended axial direction of the respective associated components as an assembly aid. In the drive 1 according to the proposed method, the inner housing tube 29 moves blindly past the rod 6 during assembly. To simplify this, the centering collar 34 is used. It guides the rod 6 through the inclined portion of the receiving portion 35.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, the centering collar 34 can center the respective components with respect to the associated joint components 8, 9. This prevents the components from rolling relative to the drive shaft 7 and simplifies assembly at the stop element 16 and / or the joint components 8, 9.

[0064] Preferably, the centering collar 34 is integrally connected to the inner housing tube 29 and the outer housing tube 30. Preferably, the centering collar 34 is designed to be axially sealing. This improves water management of the drive 1.

[0065] Because the drive unit 1 may have contact with rainwater at the vehicle 3, for example, water management is provided here and preferably at least at one of the inner housing pipe 29 and the outer housing pipe 30, especially at the inner housing pipe 29 and the outer housing pipe 30 below when mounted at the vehicle 3. Here and preferably at least two drainage openings 36 are provided, more preferably at least three drainage openings 36, and even more preferably at least four drainage openings 36. The corresponding water flow is... Figure 3 The arrow in the middle indicates this.

[0066] The drain opening 36 fluidly connects the internal space of the actuator 1 to the surrounding environment. In particular, this protects the metal components within the actuator 1 from corrosion. The internal space of the actuator 1 that is fluidly connected to the surrounding environment is preferably the internal space housing the drive spring 5. Here, and preferably, the centering collar 34 has at least one drain opening 37. The drain opening 37 of the centering collar 34 is in fluid contact with the drain opening 36 of the joint components 8, 9.

[0067] Preferably, the corresponding stop element 16 and / or at least one drive spring 15 of the drive spring assembly 14 and / or the corresponding component, namely the hollow cylinder 5 or the rod 6 and / or the axial protrusion 19, are respectively designed of metal. Additionally or alternatively, the corresponding joint components 8, 9 and / or the corresponding inner housing tube 29 and outer housing tube 30 are designed of plastic material.

[0068] As previously mentioned, the actuator 1 is preferably designed as a gas pressure spring actuator. Preferably, the drive unit 4 is therefore designed as a gas pressure spring 38, wherein the first component is a gas-filled gas pressure spring cylinder 39 and the second component is a gas pressure spring piston rod 40 axially guided therein. The gas pressure spring piston rod 40 is a unit consisting of a push rod 40a and a piston 40b.

[0069] As previously stated, the proposed actuator 1 is not limited to a gas pressure spring actuator design, but can also be designed as a spindle actuator. In this case, the drive unit 4 is designed as a spindle drive unit, wherein the first component is a spindle nut tube with a torsion-resistant spindle nut fixed in this axial direction, and the second component is a threaded spindle that meshes with the spindle nut. Such a spindle nut drive mechanism is well known and does not need to be explained here. An optional drive motor of the drive unit 4 can then operate the spindle nut drive mechanism in a normal manner.

[0070] Based on another teaching that achieves independent meaning, a method for assembling driver 1 is proposed. This method is particularly suitable for assembling driver 1 according to the proposed method. Reference can be made to all embodiments of driver 1 according to the proposed method.

[0071] Importantly, in this method, the inner housing tube 29 is connected to the associated joint component 9, drive unit 4, and spring assembly 14. For this purpose, the inner housing tube 29 is moved via one of the components of the drive unit 4, particularly the rod 6 and the drive spring 15. Here, the inner housing tube 29 is centered with respect to the components of the drive unit 4 via a centering collar 34.

[0072] The associated joint component 9 can be connected to the inner housing tube 29 before or after being pushed up. It is here, and preferably after being pushed up, screwed onto the rod 6 via the stop element 16. It can be configured such that the drive spring 15 is compressed externally, particularly, when the inner housing tube 29 is pushed up.

[0073] After the inner housing tube 29 is connected to the associated joint component 9, drive unit 4, and spring assembly 14, here and preferably the stop element 16 is as follows: Figure 4 As shown in a), it is introduced into another joint component 8. The joint component 8 is then tightened via the stop element 16 to the associated component of the drive unit 4, particularly the axial protrusion 19, to form a threaded connection. Here, and preferably, during this process, the drive spring 15 is as shown in Figure 4 As seen in a), the compression occurs. The outer housing tube 30 can then move and engage with the joint member 8. For engagement, the joint member 8 may have a bundle 41. Since joint members 8 and 9 are structurally identical to save on production costs, the bundle 41 may also be located at another joint member 9. In particular, the centering collar 34 and the water management system connected thereto are of unique importance not only within the scope of this invention but also.

[0074] Figure 5 Corresponding to Figure 4 Alternative embodiments of the previously described proposed drive 1, both during and after assembly, are shown. This drive 1 is distinguished from those described in the following ways: Figures 2 to 4The actuator 1 shown here, i.e., the stop element 16, is not a single piece but a multi-piece design, and preferably a two-piece design. Thus, the stop element 16 is formed here and preferably by a first stop element component 16a and a second stop element component 16b, which together complete the function. Figures 2 to 4 The single-piece stop element 16 has the following functions: on the one hand, the stop element 16 is axially fixedly connected to the corresponding component of the drive unit 4 via a threaded connection (first function); on the other hand, the stop element 16 extends radially into the axial projection P of the spring material of the drive spring assembly 14 (second function).

[0075] Preferably, the first stop element component 16a is configured for a first function and the second stop element component 16b is configured for a second function.

[0076] The first stop element component 16a is specifically designed as a helical nut with an internal thread 24 corresponding to the external thread 23. Radially outward, the first stop element component 16a is non-circular, particularly angular, and here designed as a hexagonal edge, wherein, here and preferably in the corresponding joint components 8, 9, a receiving portion 21 already described is provided, which here corresponds to the first stop element component 16a, particularly to its non-circular radial outer side.

[0077] Furthermore, and preferably, the second stop element component 16b is designed as a form-fitting element that extends radially into the axial projection P of the spring material of the drive spring assembly 14. In particular, the second stop element component 16b is a snap-fit ​​clamp with two legs, between which an intermediate space is constructed in both the assembled and unassembled states, wherein an axial protrusion 19 extends in the assembled state.

[0078] As in Figure 5 As shown in a), and also preferably in the assembly process, corresponding to Figure 4 In the manner shown in a), the stop element 16 is first introduced into the associated joint member 8 and then the joint member 8 is tightened via the stop element 16 to the associated member of the drive unit 4, in particular the axial protrusion 19, to form a threaded connection.

[0079] The introduction of the stop element 16 into the associated joint member 8 comprises several, particularly two, assembly steps: on the one hand, the axial, particularly torsional, insertion of the first stop element component 16a into the receiving portion 21, and on the other hand, particularly subsequently, the radial introduction of the second stop element component 16b into the receiving portion 17. In this case, and preferably, the second stop element component 16b extends radially with its legs into the axial projection of the material of the first stop element component 16a, thereby axially stopping the first stop element component 16a in the associated joint member 8.

[0080] The joint component 8 and the associated components of the drive unit 4, particularly the axial protrusion 19, are tightened via the stop element 16, which is achieved by tightening the first stop element component 16a with the external thread 23. Here, the external thread 23 and / or the internal thread 24 may be provided with a micro-encapsulation 42 before assembly, which prevents loosening or hinders rotation during operation in the assembled state. It is conceivable that the micro-encapsulation 42 has a micro-encapsulated adhesive that is activated upon tightening.

Claims

1. A driver for adjusting an adjusting element (2) of a motor vehicle (3), wherein the driver (1) has a drive unit (4) having a hollow cylinder (5) and a rod (6) axially guided therein as a component for transmitting driving force, wherein the driver (1) has two joint components (8, 9) adjustable to each other along a geometric drive axis (7) between an entry position and an exit position for deriving linear drive motion to the motor vehicle (3), which respectively form drive couplings (12, 13) with mating joint components (10, 11) on the motor vehicle side for coupling with the adjusting element (2) on one hand and with the motor vehicle (3) on the other hand, wherein one of the joint components (8) is axially fixedly coupled to a first component associated with a component of the drive unit (4) and the other joint component (9) is axially fixedly coupled to a second component associated with a component of the drive unit (4) in an assembled state, and wherein the driver (1) has a drive spring assembly (14) with at least one drive spring (15) acting on the two joint components (8, 9). Its features are, In the assembled state, at least one of the components of the drive unit (4) is axially fixedly connected to the stop element via a threaded connection, and the stop element (16) extends radially into the axial projection (P) of the spring material of the drive spring assembly (14). The components of the drive unit (4) are connected to the respective associated joint components (8,9) via the stop element (16), and the stop element (16) is housed in the joint components (8,9). The joint components (8,9) have a receiving portion (17) into which the stop element (16) or the stop element component (16b) of the stop element (16) is introduced radially.

2. The driver according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop element (16) is axially arranged between at least one section (8a, 8b, 8c, 9a, 9b, 9c) of the spring material and the corresponding joint components (8, 9).

3. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The stop element (16) is radially surface-shaped and / or the stop element (16) has a radial outer contour that is different from a circular shape and / or the stop element (16) has a substantially elliptical or circular or polygonal radial outer contour.

4. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The hollow cylinder (5) has an axial protrusion (19) at its axial end facing the associated joint component (8), which is axially fixed to the hollow cylinder (5), and the stop element (16) is screwed onto the axial protrusion (19) in the assembled state.

5. The driver according to claim 4, characterized in that, The axial protrusion (19) is engaged with the corresponding receiving portion (21) of the respective associated joint components (8, 9).

6. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The hollow cylinder (5) and / or the rod (6) have external threads (23), the stop element (16) has a corresponding internal thread (24), and the external thread (23) and the internal thread (24) form the threaded connection in the assembled state.

7. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The threaded connection is stopped to prevent loosening and rotation, and / or the hollow cylinder (5) and / or the rod (6) have a torsion stop section (26) which is engaged with the corresponding receiving portion (27) of the respective associated joint components (8,9).

8. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The drive (1) has a drive housing (28) with inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) that telescopically travel into each other when adjusted between the drive-in position and the drive-out position.

9. The driver according to claim 8, characterized in that, The drive spring assembly (14) is arranged radially between the drive unit (4) and the driver housing (28).

10. The driver according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least one of the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) has a centering collar (34) that extends radially within the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) in an axial direction along the respective associated components of the drive unit (4).

11. The driver according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least one of the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) has at least one drain opening (36) that fluidly connects the interior space of the actuator (1) to the surrounding environment.

12. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The stop element (16) and / or the at least one drive spring (15) of the drive spring assembly (14) and / or the corresponding component of the drive unit (4) are made of metal, and / or the corresponding joint components (8,9) are made of plastic material.

13. The driver according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The drive unit (4) is designed as a gas pressure spring (38), wherein the first component of the components is a gas-filled gas pressure spring cylinder (39) and the second component of the components is a gas pressure spring piston rod (40) axially guided therein, or the drive unit (4) is designed as a spindle drive unit, wherein the first component of the components is a spindle nut tube with a spindle nut that is axially fixed and torsion-resistant, and the second component of the components is a threaded spindle that meshes with the spindle nut.

14. The driver according to claim 2, characterized in that, The stop element (16) is axially and shape-fittingly connected to the corresponding joint components (8, 9).

15. The driver according to claim 3, characterized in that, The stop element (16) is torsionalally stopped at a mating element (18) that is torsionally connected to the corresponding joint component (8,9) or is otherwise monolithically designed with the corresponding joint component (8,9).

16. The driver according to claim 4, characterized in that, The axial protrusion (19) has an axial end section (20) with a cross section whose inner diameter is reduced relative to the stop element (16).

17. The driver according to claim 16, characterized in that, The axial protrusion (19) and / or the rod (6) have external threads (23), the stop element (16) has a corresponding internal thread (24), and the external thread (23) and the internal thread (24) form the threaded connection in the assembled state, wherein the threaded section (25) of the external thread (23) formed at the axial protrusion (19) is connected to the axial end section (20).

18. The driver according to claim 16, characterized in that, The threaded connection is stopped to prevent loosening and rotation, and / or the axial protrusion (19) and / or the rod (6) have a torsion stop section (26) in engagement with a corresponding receiving portion (27) of a respective associated joint member (8, 9), wherein the axial end section of the axial protrusion (19) forms the torsion stop section (26).

19. The driver according to claim 7, characterized in that, The hollow cylinder (5) and / or the rod (6) have external threads (23), the stop element (16) has corresponding internal threads (24), and the external threads (23) and the internal threads (24) form the threaded connection in the assembled state, wherein the engagement of the internal threads (24) and the external threads (23) is designed to be self-locking along the loosening direction.

20. The driver according to claim 18, characterized in that, The axial protrusion (19) and / or the rod (6) have external threads (23), the stop element (16) has corresponding internal threads (24), and the external threads (23) and the internal threads (24) form the threaded connection in the assembled state, wherein the engagement of the internal threads (24) and the external threads (23) is designed to be self-locking along the loosening direction.

21. The driver according to claim 8, characterized in that, The inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) are axially fixed to the respective associated joint components in the joint components (8, 9).

22. The driver according to claim 9, characterized in that, The spring guide tube (31) is arranged radially between the drive unit (4) and the drive spring assembly (14).

23. The driver according to claim 10, characterized in that, The centering collar (34) is designed to be sealed along the axial direction.

24. The driver according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least one of the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) has a centering collar (34) that extends radially within the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) in an axial direction along the respective associated components of the drive unit (4), wherein the centering collar (34) has at least one drain opening (37) and the drain opening (36) of the joint component is in fluid technical contact with the drain opening (37) of the centering collar.

25. The driver according to claim 16, characterized in that, The axial end section (20) is engaged with the corresponding receiving portion (21) of the respective associated joint components (8, 9).

26. A method for assembling the driver according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The inner housing tube (29) is connected to the associated joint component (9), the drive unit (4), and the drive spring assembly (14).

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The stop element (16) is then introduced into another joint component (8), and the joint component (8) is then screwed onto the associated component of the drive unit (4) via the stop element (16) to form the threaded connection.

28. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, At least one of the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) has a centering collar (34) that extends radially within the inner and outer housing tubes (29, 30) in an axial direction along the respective associated components of the drive unit (4), wherein the inner housing tube (29) is connected to the associated joint component (9), the drive unit (4) and the drive spring assembly (14) in such a way that the inner housing tube (29) moves via one of the components of the drive unit (4) and the drive spring (15), and is centered here via the centering collar (34) relative to the components of the drive unit (4).

29. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The outer housing tube (30) then moves via the joint component (8) and engages therein.

Images