Ball-and-socket joint for a vehicle chassis and method for manufacturing such a ball-and-socket joint

Abstract

The invention relates to a ball-and-socket joint (1, 37) for a vehicle chassis, having a joint inner part (4) and a one-piece plain bearing (10) made of plastic, wherein a joint ball (35) of the joint inner part (4) is movably hinged in a ball bearing section (16) of the plain bearing (10), and the plain bearing (10) has a receiving section (12, 38) for arranging a sensor element (13, 39). In order to simplify the structure and / or the mounting of the ball-and-socket joint (1, 37), it is characterized in that the plain bearing (10) has a circular ring-shaped abutment surface (20) on its outer side, which is coaxial to a central longitudinal axis (19) of the plain bearing (10) and which, in the axial direction of the central longitudinal axis (19), cooperates with a separate locking ring (9) which surrounds the outer side of the plain bearing (10) in order to fix the plain bearing (10) in a joint housing (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a ball-and-socket joint for a vehicle chassis, the ball-and-socket joint having an internal joint component and a one-piece sliding support made of plastic, wherein the articulated ball of the internal joint component is hingedly supported in a ball-support section of the sliding support, and the sliding support has a receiving section for accommodating sensor elements. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for manufacturing such a ball-and-socket joint. Background Technology

[0002] Such a ball-and-socket joint is known from patent document DE 10 2019 204 659 A1. Here, the ball-and-socket joint has a locking element having multiple notches. Plastic material extends through the notches of the metal locking element to form a sliding support. Thus, a hybrid component is formed with a locking element made of metal and a sliding support made of plastic.

[0003] The downside here is that forming a locking element with multiple notches is costly. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The objective of this invention is to further improve the type of ball-and-socket joint and / or method described at the outset, thereby simplifying the structure and / or installation of the ball-and-socket joint. It is preferable that the ball-and-socket joint be manufactured using as many standard components as possible, such as common locking rings and / or common installation steps. Furthermore, it is desirable that the predetermined orientation of the sensor element relative to the joint housing and / or internal components can be achieved more easily, more reliably, and / or in a better reproducible manner. In particular, alternative embodiments should be provided.

[0005] This ball joint is used in the chassis of vehicles, especially motor vehicle chassis. The ball joint is preferably a component of the chassis and / or chassis parts. Ball joints are used in vehicle manufacturing in various ways. Particularly in the chassis, ball joints are used to hingedly connect chassis components such as guide rods, wheel carriers, and steering tie rods to each other or to the vehicle body or axle frames attached thereto.

[0006] The ball-and-socket joint has an internal component. This internal component can be, for example, a ball journal or a ball sleeve. Furthermore, the ball-and-socket joint has a sliding support. The sliding support is integral and made of plastic. Here, the articulated ball of the internal component is hingedly supported in the ball-support section of the sliding support. The sliding support and / or the ball-support section may be open on at least one side. The sliding support, particularly the ball-support section, may be arranged between the internal component and the joint housing, particularly a housing recess of the joint housing. The housing recess may serve as an opening in the joint housing and / or be formed in the chassis component. Preferably, the internal component or the articulated ball can slide on the sliding support, particularly on the ball-support section. Furthermore, the sliding support has a receiving section for arranging, particularly fixing, a sensor element. The sliding support has an annular abutment surface on its outer side, which is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the sliding support and works in conjunction with a separate locking ring surrounding the outer side of the sliding support in the axial direction about the central longitudinal axis to secure the sliding support in the joint housing.

[0007] The advantage here is that common locking rings can be used. Specifically, the locking ring has no breaks within its annular disc profile. The locking ring preferably surrounds or encircles the outside of the sliding support member coaxially with the central longitudinal axis. Specifically, the locking ring is used to close the joint housing and / or housing recess. Here, locking in the sense of this application may already exist if the opening of the ball-and-socket joint and / or joint housing is reduced or minimized by means of the locking ring to reliably retain the internal joint components in the sliding support member. Specifically, the locking ring is used to preferably axially fix the internal joint components in the joint housing and / or housing recess. Therefore, the locking ring can prevent the internal joint components from falling out of and / or being pulled out of the joint housing at least until a predetermined pull-out force is reached. The locking ring is preferably formed of metal. Specifically, the locking ring is a separate and / or independent component.

[0008] When the intra-articular component is a ball-and-socket journal, the intra-articular component has a ball and a journal. Specifically, the journal of the intra-articular component extends from an opening in the ball-support section and / or the housing recess. The opening in the ball-support section and / or the housing recess preferably allows for articulated movement of the intra-articular component within the sliding support or the ball-support section. Simultaneously, the diameter of the opening can be predetermined or defined to indicate the maximum tilt angle of the intra-articular component relative to the central longitudinal axis. Specifically, the diameter of the opening is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the ball. The opening in the ball-support section and / or the journal is preferably arranged on the side of the sliding support opposite to the receiving section.

[0009] Specifically, the ball bearing section fully assumes the function of a typical individual bearing. Specifically, the ball bearing section partially surrounds and / or encloses the articular ball of the intra-articular component. Specifically, the inner side of the ball bearing section abuts the outer side of the articular ball. For this purpose, the ball bearing section has at least partially a hollow spherical inner side. Specifically, the hollow spherical inner side of the ball bearing section corresponds to the outer side of the articular ball. Because the articular ball is particularly partially surrounded and / or enclosed by the ball bearing section, the intra-articular component or articular ball is shape-fittedly held within the ball bearing section. The ball bearing section, particularly the at least partially hollow spherical inner side, can extend beyond the equator of the articular ball from its end face and / or polar face toward the joint journal of the intra-articular component.

[0010] Preferably, the ball-and-socket joint, sliding support, and / or locking ring are rotationally symmetrical or substantially rotationally symmetrical about a central longitudinal axis. The central longitudinal axis may extend through the midpoint of the joint sphere, particularly a spherical or ball-shaped joint ball, within the joint components.

[0011] Within the framework of this application, the term "radial" can refer to a direction or any direction extending axially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the ball-and-socket joint, the intra-articular component, and / or the sliding support. Furthermore, the term "axial" can refer to a direction or any direction extending axially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the ball-and-socket joint, the intra-articular component, and / or the sliding support.

[0012] Specifically, the support for the movable and / or articulated movement of the intra-articular component in the sliding support should be understood as pivotable, tiltable, and / or rotatable. The articulated connection preferably does not allow any translational movement of the intra-articular component relative to the sliding support and / or the joint housing. "Tilt" of the intra-articular component should be specifically understood as movement of the intra-articular component relative to the sliding support and / or the joint housing, in which the angle between the central longitudinal axis and the longitudinal axis of the intra-articular component changes. Tilt is preferably about the midpoint of the intra-articular component, and preferably about the midpoint of the articular ball of the intra-articular component. Specifically, "rotation" of the intra-articular component should be understood as movement of the intra-articular component in which the intra-articular component rotates relative to the sliding support and / or relative to the joint housing about the central longitudinal axis and / or about the longitudinal axis of the intra-articular component.

[0013] The integrally formed sliding support with a ball-and-socket section and a receiving section is specifically manufactured in a single manufacturing step via injection molding. The sensor element can be held or fixed to the sliding support via the receiving section. The sensor element can interact with other sensor elements to form a sensor device. For example, additional sensor elements can be assigned to, and / or disposed thereon, the intra-articular components, particularly the articular ball. These additional sensor elements are preferably magnets. Specifically, the sensor device is used to determine the position of the intra-articular components within the ball-and-socket joint and their position relative to the central longitudinal axis of the joint housing and / or the sliding support. For example, the corresponding sensor device can be an angle sensor device. For this purpose, the sensor element can have a Hall effect sensor for interaction with the magnet of the articular ball.

[0014] According to another construction scheme, the annular contact surface is at least partially formed by an annular protrusion of the sliding support. Here, the annular protrusion protrudes radially outward from the outside of the sliding support along the central longitudinal axis. In particular, the maximum outer diameter of the sliding support is defined or determined by the annular protrusion. The annular protrusion is preferably an integrally formed component of the sliding support. Furthermore, the annular protrusion may engage with a corresponding recess in the joint housing and / or joint recess. The recess may be based on a stepped structure in the inner side of the joint recess. The sliding support is preferably pressed into the joint recess. Here, the pressing motion ends once the annular protrusion contacts the recess or stepped profile inside the housing recess in the axial direction relative to the central longitudinal axis of the sliding support.

[0015] According to an improved design, the locking ring protrudes radially outward from the central longitudinal axis beyond the outer side of the sliding support, particularly beyond the annular protrusion of the sliding support. Here, the radially outer edge of the locking ring is form-fitted into a groove corresponding to the outer edge. Specifically, the groove is a component of the joint housing. Here, the groove can be formed inside the joint recess. Therefore, by means of the locking ring, the sliding support is fixed or secured in the axial direction about the central longitudinal axis. Here, in order to form-fit the locking ring and to ultimately form the groove for receiving the outer edge of the locking ring, the edge of the joint housing can be formed after the locking ring is arranged on the annular abutment surface of the sliding support. This forming can be, for example, by so-called crimping.

[0016] The radially inward-pointing side of the locking ring preferably abuts against the outer cylindrical surface of the sliding support. Specifically, the inward-pointing side of the locking ring faces away from its radially outer edge. The cylindrical surface preferably extends coaxially with the central longitudinal axis and / or extends perpendicularly to the circular abutment surface. Therefore, the locking ring abuts against both the annular abutment surface and the cylindrical surface of the sliding support. Here, the annular abutment surface and the cylindrical surface are components of the outer side of the sliding support.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the cylindrical surface has an annular groove adjacent to the abutment surface. Specifically, the annular groove is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the sliding support. A sealing element, particularly an O-ring, is arranged in the annular groove. Preferably, the sealing element interacts with the radially inward-pointing side of the locking ring. Specifically, the sealing element is pressed into the annular groove by the locking ring. The sealing element prevents undesirable infiltration of dirt and / or moisture into the ball-and-socket joint and / or the sliding support.

[0018] According to another improvement, the receiving section of the sliding support is annular. Specifically, the receiving section has a substantially annular outer periphery. Preferably, the receiving section has at least one connecting plate projecting radially outward relative to a central longitudinal axis, which interacts with at least one or more corresponding locking hooks of the sensor element to form a snap-fit ​​connection and / or a locking connection to releasably secure the sensor element to the receiving section. Specifically, the multiple locking hooks are arranged relative to each other to form an annular or circular structure. Alternatively, the multiple locking hooks may be arranged in an arcuate or circular arcuate shape relative to each other. Preferably, the multiple locking hooks achieve at least a partially arcuate or annular outer contour for the sensor element. The sensor element is preferably plug-in type. A first end of the sensor element can be connected to the receiving section via a snap-fit ​​connection and / or a locking connection. A second end of the sensor element opposite to the first end can be connected to or linked to an evaluation unit via wiring.

[0019] According to another embodiment, a sealing device, particularly an O-ring, is arranged coaxially with the central longitudinal axis and in the axial direction between the receiving section and the sensor element. Specifically, the seal is surrounded and / or wrapped by at least one or more latches of the sensor element. The seal prevents dirt and / or moisture from seeping between the sensor element and the sliding support.

[0020] According to another improvement, the sensor element has an annular or segmental fixing element at its outer periphery. The fixing element acts on the sensor element with a tension force and / or spring force pointing radially inward about the central longitudinal axis. The fixing element effectively prevents undesirable and unintentional disengagement of the sensor element from the receiving section of the sliding support. In particular, the fixing element acts on at least one or more latches of the sensor element with a radially inward tension force and / or spring force. Therefore, the fixing element additionally ensures the latching connection and / or locking between the sensor element and the receiving section. Preferably, the latches or latches each have a groove on their outer side. The fixing element is at least partially received in the groove. In particular, the multiple grooves are coaxial with each other about the central longitudinal axis and together form an annular groove composite structure in which the fixing element is at least partially received. The fixing element can be a circular loop, a tensioning ring, or an O-ring. Here, it is sufficient for the fixing element to form a segment and therefore it is not implemented as a complete ring.

[0021] The receiving section preferably has at least one directional section for orienting the sensor element therein. Specifically, the directional section predetermines a unique orientation of the sensor element on the receiving section. Thus, the directional section predetermines a specific position of the sensor element relative to the sliding support. Specifically, the directional section interacts with a corresponding mounting section of the sensor element. The directional section of the receiving section and the mounting section of the sensor element preferably interact with each other in a form-fitting manner. The directional section can be formed by at least one cutout in the annular receiving section. The corresponding mounting section of the sensor element can be accommodated in this cutout. The directional section preferably has two cutouts opposite each other in the annular receiving section. Here, the mounting section of the sensor element is configured to be accommodated in both cutouts for arranging the sensor element in the receiving section. Alternatively, the directional section can be formed by at least one protrusion disposed at the outer periphery of the annular receiving section. Specifically, the protrusion is a projection or nose. The corresponding mounting section may have a profile that accommodates and / or at least partially surrounds the protrusion when the sensor element is arranged in the receiving section.

[0022] According to an improved design, the annular receiving section has multiple reinforcing ribs pointing radially inward toward the central longitudinal axis. These ribs can be sloping. Here, the height of the sloping reinforcing ribs, particularly the height observed in the axial direction relative to the central longitudinal axis, decreases radially from the inside of the receiving section toward the central longitudinal axis. These reinforcing ribs ensure better shape stability of the sliding support, especially the receiving section.

[0023] Particularly advantageous is a method for manufacturing a ball-and-socket joint according to the invention, wherein a sliding support is oriented and pressed into a housing recess of the joint housing relative to the joint housing, taking into account a predetermined principal deflection direction of the internal components of the joint. Due to the oriented arrangement of the sliding support in the housing recess, the orientation of the sensor element to be installed later is predetermined. Here, the press fit of the sliding support in the housing recess ensures that the sliding support cannot rotate about a central longitudinal axis. After the sliding support is pressed in, a separate locking ring is pressed in to axially fix the sliding support. Specifically, the locking ring contacts the annular abutment surface and cylindrical surface on the outer side of the sliding support. The housing edge of the joint housing is then shaped to form-fit the locking ring. Thus, specifically, the radially outer edge of the locking ring is fixed in a groove formed by the molding in the joint housing. The sensor element is then fixed in the receiving section with a predetermined orientation relative to the joint housing by means of the receiving section, and particularly by means of the oriented section.

[0024] In particular, the ball-and-socket joint manufactured according to the method according to the invention is the ball-and-socket joint according to the invention previously described. Preferably, the method is improved according to a design scheme explained in conjunction with the ball-and-socket joint according to the invention described herein. Furthermore, the ball-and-socket joint described herein can be improved based on a design scheme explained in conjunction with the method. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the same reference numerals refer to the same, similar, or functionally identical components or elements. As shown here:

[0026] Figure 1 A partial view of a three-dimensional side view of the first ball-and-socket joint according to the invention is shown.

[0027] Figure 2 It shows the method for using according to Figure 1 A perspective side view of the sliding support member of the ball-and-socket joint according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 It shows according to Figure 1 The first cross-sectional side view of the ball-and-socket joint according to the present invention,

[0029] Figure 4 A partial perspective view of another ball-and-socket joint according to the invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 5 It shows the method for using according to Figure 4 Another side view of the sensor element of the ball-and-socket joint according to the invention.

[0031] Figure 6 It shows according to Figure 4 Another cross-sectional side view of the ball-and-socket joint of the present invention,

[0032] Figure 7 It shows according to Figure 6 Another section of the cross-sectional side view of the ball-and-socket joint according to the invention.

[0033] Figure 8 It shows according to Figure 4 Another partial cross-section of the ball-and-socket joint according to the invention is shown in the side view.

[0034] Figure 9 A partial perspective view of another ball-and-socket joint without sensor elements according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Figure 1 A partial perspective side view of the first ball-and-socket joint 1 according to the invention is shown. In this embodiment, the ball-and-socket joint 1 is a ball-and-socket joint. Furthermore, the ball-and-socket joint 1 is arranged in the housing recess 2 of the joint housing 3. The joint housing 3 in this embodiment is an integral part of the integrated chassis components, wherein the chassis components are exemplarily guide rods.

[0036] The ball-and-socket joint 1 has an intra-articular component 4. The intra-articular component 4 is, in this case, a ball journal. Accordingly, the intra-articular component 4 has a joint journal 5, which extends outward from the joint housing 3. The ball-and-socket joint 1 has a flexible telescopic hose 6 for sealing it. The flexible telescopic hose 6 extends between the joint journal 5 and the joint housing 3. Here, the flexible telescopic hose 6 is secured to the joint journal 5 or the joint housing 3 on both the joint journal side and the joint housing side by spring rings 7 or 8, respectively.

[0037] The housing recess 2 is locked on the side opposite to the joint journal 5 by a locking ring 9 and a sliding support 10. Here, the locking ring 9 is fixed in the housing recess 2 by the shaped housing edge 11 of the joint housing 3. The receiving section 12 of the sliding support 10 extends outward through the central opening of the locking ring 9.

[0038] Sensor element 13 is arranged or fixed in receiving section 12. In this embodiment, sensor element 13 is substantially plug-in type. From sensor element 13, line 14 extends to evaluation device (not shown in detail here). Sensor element 13 is positioned in and held in receiving section 12 by a snap-fit ​​connection and / or locking connection in the axial direction of central longitudinal axis 19. Here, sensor element 13 has a plurality of locking hooks 15. For clarity, not all locking hooks 15 are provided with reference numerals. The plurality of locking hooks 15 are evenly spaced from each other. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the plurality of locking hooks 15 are arranged in a semi-circular shape relative to each other. Here, the locking hooks 15 also form a portion of the outer periphery of sensor element 13 facing away from line 14.

[0039] Figure 2 It shows the method for using according to Figure 1 A perspective side view of the sliding support 10 of the ball-and-socket joint 1 according to the invention. The sliding support 10 is formed by a receiving section 12 and a ball support section 16. The ball support section 16 has an opening 17 on the side opposite to the receiving section 12. Figure 1 The joint component 4 extends outward through the opening 17. The ball bearing section 16 has a plurality of gaps 18. The plurality of gaps 18 are arranged to be evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the ball bearing section 16. Furthermore, the gaps 18 extend parallel to the central longitudinal axis 19 of the sliding support 10 from the opening 17. The gaps 18 extend approximately to the equatorial region of the ball bearing section 16. In this embodiment, the ball bearing section 16 has a total of four gaps 18.

[0040] The sliding support 10 has an annular abutment surface 20 on its outer side. The abutment surface 20 is coaxial with and extends radially toward the central longitudinal axis 19. Furthermore, the abutment surface 20 is positioned away from the ball support section 16 or toward the receiving section 12. The receiving section 12 is annular, wherein the receiving section 12 has a smaller outer diameter than the abutment surface 20. Here, the receiving section 12 is centrally located relative to the abutment surface 20 or the central longitudinal axis 19.

[0041] The annular contact surface 20 is at least partially formed by the annular protrusion 21 of the sliding support 10. Here, the annular protrusion 21 protrudes radially outward from the outside of the sliding support along the central longitudinal axis 19. The protrusion 21 thus defines or determines the maximum outer diameter of the sliding support 10.

[0042] The receiving section 12 has a cylindrical surface 22 that extends coaxially with the central longitudinal axis 19 and, in this embodiment, extends at right angles away from the annular contact surface 20.

[0043] In order to be based on Figure 1A sensor element 13 is arranged in a receiving section 12, which has a connecting plate 23 projecting radially outward about a central longitudinal axis 19. In this embodiment, the receiving section 12 has two connecting plates 23. The two connecting plates 23 are arranged as circular segments that are mirror-symmetrical to each other. The connecting plates 23 also form end faces 24 of the receiving section 12. The end faces 24 are located axially away from the spherical support section 16 about the central longitudinal axis 19.

[0044] The receiving section 12 has a directional section 25 for use according to Figure 1 The sensor element 13 is oriented in the receiving section 12. In this embodiment, the oriented section 25 is formed by two opposing notches 26 and 27. Due to the notches 26 and 27, the two connecting plates 23 are separated from each other.

[0045] The receiving section 12 is substantially annular and has a plurality of reinforcing ribs 28 pointing radially inward toward the central longitudinal axis 19. For clarity, not all reinforcing ribs 28 are labeled. The reinforcing ribs 28 are sloping. Here, the height of the sloping reinforcing ribs 28 begins from the inner side 29 of the receiving section 12 and decreases radially toward the central longitudinal axis 19.

[0046] Figure 3 It shows according to Figure 1 The first cross-sectional side view of the ball-and-socket joint 1 according to the invention. The annular protrusion 21 of the sliding support 10 is inserted into the corresponding recess 30 of the joint housing 3 or the housing recess 2. In this embodiment, the recess 30 is stepped.

[0047] The locking ring 9 protrudes radially outward from the central longitudinal axis 19 beyond the outer side of the sliding support 10. Here, the radial outer edge of the locking ring 9 is shaped to fit within a groove 31 corresponding to the outer edge of the locking ring 9. The groove 31 is annular and is provided or formed inside the housing recess 2. The groove 31 shown here is formed after the locking ring 9 is inserted and the housing edge 11 is shaped, resulting in the shape shown here.

[0048] The cylindrical surface 22 of the receiving section 12 has an annular groove 32 adjacent to the abutment surface 20. A sealing element 33 is provided in the annular groove 32. In this embodiment, the sealing element 33 is an O-ring. Here, the sealing element 33 works in conjunction with the radially inward-pointing side of the locking ring 9. The sealing element 33 prevents dirt and / or moisture from undesirably seeping into the ball-and-socket joint 1.

[0049] In this embodiment, sensor element 13 works in conjunction with another sensor element 34. Sensor element 13 and the other sensor element 34 form a sensor device. In this embodiment, the other sensor element 34 is a magnet and is integrated into the articulated ball 35 of the joint component 4. The articulated ball 35 is hingedly supported in the ball support section 16. The other sensor element 34 is arranged in the region of the articulated ball 35 opposite to the joint journal 5 and facing the receiving section 12.

[0050] In this embodiment, sensor element 13 has a Hall sensor 36. Therefore, in this embodiment, the sensor device formed by sensor element 13 and another sensor element 34 is an angle sensor device, by means of which the position of the joint inner component 4 relative to the joint housing 3 or relative to the sliding support 10 can be determined.

[0051] The sliding support 10, consisting of the receiving section 12 and the ball support section 16, is made of plastic and is manufactured as a single piece. The locking ring 9 is made of metal. The joint housing 3 and the associated chassis components are also made of metal.

[0052] Figure 4 A partial perspective side view of another ball-and-socket joint 37 according to the invention is shown. The same features as described above have the same reference numerals. Reference is also made to the preceding description. As according to... Figures 1 to 3 The ball-and-socket joint 1 and ball-and-socket joint 37 are also ball-and-socket journal joints. Accordingly, an internal joint component 4 in the form of a ball-and-socket journal is arranged in the housing recess 2 of the joint housing 3. In this embodiment, the sliding support 10 has a receiving section 38 to which the sensor element 39 is fixed by a snap-fit ​​connection and / or a locking connection. The structure of the receiving section 38 and the sensor element 39 is described in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0053] Figure 5 It shows the method for using according to Figure 4 Another side view of the sensor element 39 of the ball-and-socket joint 37 according to the invention. Similar to that according to Figures 1 to 3 Sensor element 13 and sensor element 39 are plug-in type. Here, the free end 40 of sensor element 39 can be connected to the evaluation unit via wiring not shown in detail here. The sensor element has multiple [connections / connections] for [various applications / functions]. Figure 4 The sensor element 39 is arranged on the locking hook 41 in the receiving section 38. For clarity, not all locking hooks 41 are marked with reference numerals. The multiple locking hooks 41 are evenly spaced from each other and together form a circular or circular segment structure.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sensor element 39 has an annular or segmental fixing element 42 in the region of the locking hook 41 at its outer periphery. The fixing element 42 surrounds or encircles a plurality of locking hooks 41, wherein the fixing element 42 is arranged on the outside of the respective locking hook 41. Here, the fixing element 42 acts on the sensor element 39 or the locking hook 41 with a tension force or spring force radially toward the central longitudinal axis 19. Thus, additionally ensuring that according to Figure 4 The sensor element 39 and the receiving section 38 are connected by a snap-fit ​​connection and / or a locking connection.

[0055] Each of the locking hooks 41 has a groove 43 on its outer side. The fixing element 42 is at least partially received in the groove 43 and is thus positioned and fixed at the locking hook 41.

[0056] Figure 6 It shows according to Figure 4 Another cross-sectional side view of the ball-and-socket joint 37 according to the invention. In addition to the receiving section 38, the sliding support 10 has a ball support section 16. The ball support section 16, the protrusion 21, the locking ring 9, and their interaction with the joint housing 3, the housing recess 2, and the housing edge 11 correspond to the... Figures 1 to 3 The implementation of the ball-and-socket joint 1. Referring again to the preceding description.

[0057] Here, sensor element 39 also interacts with another sensor element 34 in the form of a magnet in the articular ball 35 of the joint component 4. For this purpose, sensor element 39 also has a Hall sensor 36. In this embodiment, electronics 44 extends parallel to the central longitudinal axis 19 from the Hall sensor 36. If, for an alternative embodiment, it is desired to achieve a sensor element 39 that is flatter in the axial direction relative to the central longitudinal axis 19, electronics 44 can be arranged at an angle to the central longitudinal axis 19 instead of being parallel to it. For example, electronics 44 can be arranged at a 65° angle or even a 90° angle to the central longitudinal axis 19.

[0058] Figure 7 It shows according to Figure 6 Another portion of a cross-sectional side view of the ball-and-socket joint 37 according to the invention. The receiving section 38 is substantially annular and has according to Figure 6 A connecting plate 45 protrudes radially outward from the central longitudinal axis 19. The connecting plate 45 is used to cooperate with a plurality of hooks 41 of the sensor element 39 to form a snap-fit ​​connection and / or a locking connection, so as to detachably secure the sensor element 39 to the receiving section 38. For this purpose, the hooks 41 are at least partially radially inward so as to cooperate with the connecting plate 45 which is radially outward in a form-fitting connection.

[0059] According to Figure 6 The central longitudinal axis 19 is coaxial, and in the axial direction of the central longitudinal axis, a seal 46 is arranged between the receiving section 38 and the sensor element 39. In this embodiment, the seal 46 is an O-ring. Furthermore, the seal 46 is surrounded or encircled by a plurality of locking hooks 41. In the region of the seal 46 and for accommodating the seal 46, the receiving section 38 has a substantially U-shaped cross-section. Here, the seal 46 is supported on the end face 24 of the connecting plate 45. By means of the seal 46, dirt and / or moisture can be prevented from undesirably seeping between the sensor element 36 and the sliding support 10 or the receiving section 38.

[0060] Figure 8 It shows according to Figure 4 Another portion of the cross-section of the ball-and-socket joint 37 according to the invention is shown as a side view. Here, the direction of observation is from the free end 40 of the sensor element 39 toward the snap-fit ​​connection and / or locking connection between the sensor element 39 and the receiving section 38. It can be seen that the receiving section 38 has an orientation section 47 for aligning the sensor element 39 within the receiving section 38. The orientation section 47 interacts with a mounting section 48 corresponding to the sensor element 39. In this embodiment, the orientation section 47 is formed by a protruding protrusion 49. In this embodiment, the mounting section 48 has a receiving portion 50 corresponding to the protrusion 49, into which the protrusion 49 engages. Based on the combined action of the orientation section 47 and the mounting section 48, the orientation of the sensor element 39 relative to the sliding support 10 or the joint housing 3 is determined according to… Figure 6 Provided.

[0061] Figure 9 A partial perspective side view of another ball-and-socket joint 37 according to the invention, without the sensor element 39, is shown. Here, the annular connecting plate 45 and the directional section 47 with a radially outwardly projecting protrusion 49 can be clearly seen. (Compared to...) Figure 2 Like the receiving section 12, the receiving section 38 also has multiple reinforcing ribs 28, which are sloping and extend radially toward the central longitudinal axis 19 starting from the inner side 29.

[0062] To manufacture the ball-and-socket joint 1 or 37, the sliding support 10 is directionally pressed into the housing recess 2 of the joint housing 3, taking into account the predetermined principal deflection direction of the internal component 4 relative to the joint housing 3. Here, the sliding support 10 is pressed in axially along the central longitudinal axis 19 with an opening 17. The pressing process is completed once the protrusion 21 of the sliding support 10 contacts the stepped recess 30 of the joint housing 3 or the housing recess 2. Then, a separate locking ring 9 is pressed into the housing recess 2 to axially fix the sliding support 10. Here, the locking ring 9 is pressed in axially toward the sliding support 10 along the central longitudinal axis 19 until it rests against the stop surface 20 of the sliding support 10. Here, the radially inward-pointing side of the locking ring 9 simultaneously reaches the cylindrical surface 22. Then, the housing edge 11 is shaped to fix the locking ring 9 in a form-fitting manner. This forms a groove 31 in which the radially outer edge of the locking ring 9 is shaped-fittingly fixed. Finally, sensor element 13 or sensor element 39 is fixed to receiving section 12 or receiving section 38 with a predetermined orientation relative to joint housing 3. Here, the predetermined orientation of sensor element 13 or sensor element 39 is given based on orientation section 25 or orientation section 47 of receiving section 12 or receiving section 38. The orientation of orientation section 25 or orientation section 47 is in turn achieved based on aligned, press-fit sliding support 10. Figure Labels 1. Ball-and-socket joint 2 Housing recess 3. Joint shell 4. Intra-articular components 5. Joint neck 6. Telescopic flexible hose 7. Spring ring 8. Spring ring 9. Locking ring 10 Sliding support components 11. Shell edge 12 Accommodation Sections 13 Sensor Components Line 14 15 Carabiners 16 Ball Support Section 17 Opening 18 gaps 19. Central longitudinal axis 20. Surface against 21. Protrusion 22 Cylindrical surfaces 23 Connecting plate 24 end face 25 Oriented Sections 26 Gap 27 Gap 28 Reinforcing ribs 29. Inner side 30. Depression 31 slots 32 Annular groove 33 Sealing elements 34 Another sensor element (magnet) 35. Jointed sphere 36 Hall effect sensors 37. Ball-and-socket joint 38 Accommodation Sections 39 Sensor Components 40 Free end 41 Carabiner 42 Fixing elements 43 Ditch 44 Electronic Components 45 Connecting plate 46. ​​Seals 47 Oriented Section 48 Installation Section 49. Protrusion 50. Accommodation section.

Claims

1. A ball-and-socket joint for a vehicle chassis, the ball-and-socket joint having an internal joint component (4) and an integral sliding support (10) made of plastic, wherein, The articular ball (35) of the intra-articular component (4) is hingedly supported in the ball support section (16) of the sliding support (10), and the sliding support (10) has receiving sections (12, 38) and sensor elements (13, 39) arranged on the receiving sections, wherein the sliding support (10) has an annular abutment surface (20) on its outer side, the abutment surface being coaxial with the central longitudinal axis (19) of the sliding support (10) and cooperating with a separate locking ring (9) in the axial direction of the central longitudinal axis (19). For use in order to fix the sliding support (10) in the joint housing (3), characterized in that a separate locking ring (9) surrounds the outside of the sliding support (10), and an annular receiving section (12, 38) extends outward through the central opening of the locking ring (9) and the radially inward side of the locking ring (9) abuts against the cylindrical surface (22) on the outside of the sliding support (10), wherein the cylindrical surface (22) extends coaxially with the central longitudinal axis (19) and / or perpendicularly to and / or at right angles to the annular abutment surface (20).

2. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 1, characterized in that, The annular contact surface (20) is at least partially formed by an annular protrusion (21), wherein the annular protrusion (21) protrudes outward from the outside of the sliding support (10) radially along the central longitudinal axis (19).

3. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 2, characterized in that, The annular protrusion (21) engages in the corresponding recess (30) of the joint housing (3).

4. The ball-and-socket joint according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The locking ring (9) protrudes radially outward relative to the central longitudinal axis (19) beyond the outer side of the sliding support (10), and the radial outer edge of the locking ring (9) is fixed in a groove (31) corresponding to the outer edge.

5. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cylindrical surface (22) has an annular groove (32) adjacent to the annular contact surface (20), wherein a sealing element (33) is arranged in the annular groove (32).

6. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sealing element (33) is an O-ring.

7. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sealing element (33) works together with the radially inward-pointing side of the locking ring (9).

8. The ball-and-socket joint according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The receiving section (12, 38) has at least one connecting plate (23, 45) that projects radially outward relative to the central longitudinal axis (19), the connecting plate being used to form a snap-fit ​​connection and / or locking connection with at least one correspondingly configured locking hook (15, 41) of the sensor element (13, 39) so as to detachably fix the sensor element (13, 39) to the receiving section (12, 38).

9. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 8, characterized in that, Between the receiving section (12, 38) and the sensor element (13, 39), a seal (46) is arranged coaxially with the central longitudinal axis (19) and along its axial direction.

10. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 9, characterized in that, The seal (46) is an O-ring.

11. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 9, characterized in that, The seal (46) is surrounded and / or enclosed by at least one locking hook (15, 41) of the sensor element (13, 39).

12. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 8, characterized in that, The sensor elements (13, 39) have annular or segmental fixing elements (42) at their outer periphery, which act on the sensor elements (13, 39) with a clamping force or spring force pointing radially inward relative to the central longitudinal axis (19) for securing the sensor elements (13, 39) and the receiving sections (12, 38) with a snap-fit ​​connection and / or locking connection.

13. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 12, characterized in that, The fixing element acts on at least one hook (15, 41) of the sensor element (13, 39) with a clamping force or spring force pointing radially inward relative to the central longitudinal axis (19), the at least one hook (15, 41) having a groove (43) on its outer side, the fixing element (42) being at least partially accommodated in the groove.

14. The ball-and-socket joint according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The receiving section (12, 38) has at least one orientation section (25, 47) for orienting the sensor element (13, 39) at the receiving section (12, 38), wherein the orientation section (25, 47) works in conjunction with the mounting section (48) of the corresponding configuration of the sensor element (13, 39).

15. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 14, characterized in that, The orientation sections (25, 47) are formed by at least one notch (26, 27) in the annular receiving section (12) or by at least one protrusion (49) arranged at the outer periphery of the annular receiving section (38).

16. The ball-and-socket joint according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The annular receiving section (12, 38) has reinforcing ribs (28) pointing radially inward relative to the central longitudinal axis (19).

17. The ball-and-socket joint according to claim 16, characterized in that, The reinforcing rib (28) is sloping, wherein the height of the sloping reinforcing rib (28) begins from the inside of the receiving section (12, 38) and decreases radially toward the central longitudinal axis (19).

18. A method for manufacturing a ball-and-socket joint (1, 37) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, Taking into account the predetermined principal deflection direction of the internal component (4) relative to the joint housing (3), the sliding support (10) is oriented and pressed into the housing recess (2) of the joint housing (3), and then a separate locking ring (9) is pressed in to axially fix the sliding support (10), and then the housing edge (11) is shaped to fix the locking ring (9) in a form fit, and then the sensor elements (13, 39) are fixed on the receiving section (12, 38) with a predetermined orientation relative to the joint housing (3) by means of the receiving section (12, 38).

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