Lining device for car side

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lining device for a side panel (16) of a passenger car, comprising a side panel lining (20), the side panel lining comprising a first lining member (22) arranged below a door opening (18) in a longitudinal region (L) of the side panel (16) and a second lining member (24) in the longitudinal region (L). The lining device further comprises a drive unit (A), by means of which the first lining member (22) can be rotated around a first pivot (S1) and the second lining member (24) can be rotated around a pivot spaced apart from and parallel to the first pivot (S1). A second pivot (S2) extending from the first pivot (S1) pivots relative to the side panel (16) between a decorative position (V) and a comfort position (K), wherein the drive unit (A) is designed as a spindle drive device (30), which includes a motor (34), a spindle (32) that can be rotated by means of the motor (34), and a transmission member (36) screwed onto the spindle (32), and by rotating the spindle (32), the transmission member can be moved along the spindle (32), so that the lining member (22, 24) can be pivoted.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a lining device for a side panel of a car. Background Art

[0002] DE 10 2017 000 803 A1 discloses a trim assembly for trimming a vehicle body part. WO 2019 / 174768 A1 also discloses a trim device for a passenger car side panel, comprising a side panel trim having a movably connected trim part arranged below a door opening in the longitudinal region of the side panel. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a trim device for the side panels of a passenger car, which allows a particularly simple and space-saving design of the trim device to be provided.

[0004] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a trim device for a side panel of a passenger car. The side panel is also referred to as a side longitudinal member and is preferably a component of a passenger car structure, particularly one designed as a self-supporting body. The trim device comprises a side panel trim, which at least partially trims or can trim the side panel. The side panel trim comprises a first trim part arranged below a door opening in the longitudinal region of the side panel. The door opening is at least partially, particularly at least predominantly or completely, defined by the structure. In particular, the door opening is a side door opening. In the fully manufactured state of the passenger car, the door opening is assigned a door, particularly a side door, which is movably, particularly pivotably, secured to the structure. The door is movable, particularly pivotable, relative to the structure between a closed position and at least one open position. In the closed position, at least a partial area of ​​the door opening is covered by the door and thus closed. In the open position, the door exposes the partial area, allowing, for example, a person to enter and exit the passenger compartment, also referred to as the passenger compartment or cabin, defined by the structure, via the door opening and, therefore, the exposed partial area. Here, the door opening is delimited in the vertical direction of the vehicle downwards at least partially, in particular at least predominantly or completely, by the side panels and here in particular by the longitudinal zones of the side panels, so that, for example, the longitudinal zones extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle over at least a portion of the length of the door opening extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, in particular over at least half or more than half or the entire length of the door opening.

[0005] The side panel trim also has a second trim part arranged in the longitudinal region of the side panel below the door opening. Since these trim parts are arranged in the longitudinal region, they are arranged at least partially, in particular at least predominantly or completely, at the level of the door opening in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and thus below the door opening in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0006] The trim device further includes a drive unit, in particular common to the trim elements, by which the first trim element can be pivoted about a first pivot axis and the second trim element can be pivoted about a second pivot axis spaced apart from and extending parallel to the first pivot axis relative to the side panel between a decorative position and a comfort position, also referred to as a boarding position or an exiting position. Preferably, the trim elements can also be pivoted relative to one another between the decorative position and the comfort position. Because the trim elements are arranged in longitudinal regions, at least the longitudinal region of the side panel is covered and thus decorated by the trim elements, in particular in the transverse direction of the vehicle and / or upward and / or downward in the vertical direction of the vehicle, at least in the decorative position. This means, in particular, that in the decorative position, a first portion of the longitudinal region of the side panel is covered and thus decorated by the first trim element, in particular in a first direction, while a second portion of the longitudinal region is covered and thus decorated by the second trim element, in particular in a second direction. These directions can extend obliquely or parallel to one another.

[0007] To achieve a simple, space-saving design of the trim device, the present invention provides that the drive unit is designed as a spindle drive, in particular, a drive unit shared by all trim parts. The spindle drive includes a motor shared by all trim parts, which can be designed as an electric motor. Furthermore, the spindle drive includes a spindle shared by all trim parts, which can be driven by the motor and thereby rotated relative to the trim parts and, preferably, the side panels, about the spindle's axis of rotation. Furthermore, the spindle drive includes a transmission element shared by all trim parts, which is screwed onto the spindle. To this end, the spindle has a first thread, for example, designed as an external thread, while the transmission element has a second thread corresponding to the first thread, for example, designed as an internal thread. The transmission element is screwed onto the spindle, for example, so that the threads engage with each other. For example, the transmission element is designed as a nut. The transmission element is movable along the spindle by rotating the spindle relative to the transmission element, preferably about the spindle's axis of rotation, thereby allowing the trim part to pivot between a comfort position and a decorative position. In other words, the transmission element is, for example, fixed so as not to rotate about the spindle's rotational axis or is restricted in rotation about the rotational axis. This allows the spindle to rotate about the spindle's rotational axis relative to the transmission element when the spindle is driven by a motor and thereby rotated relative to the trim element or the side panel about the spindle's rotational axis. This rotation of the spindle relative to the transmission element is converted into translational motion of the transmission element relative to the spindle by a thread. For example, when the spindle is rotated relative to the transmission element about the spindle's rotational axis by the motor in a first rotational direction, the transmission element is moved relative to the spindle along the spindle in a first direction of motion. This first direction, for example, extends parallel to the longitudinal extension of the spindle. However, if the spindle is rotated relative to the transmission element about the spindle's rotational axis by the motor in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first, the transmission element is moved relative to and along the spindle in a second direction of motion opposite to the first. In this way, the transmission element can be moved back and forth or translated back and forth by a corresponding back-and-forth rotation. For example, this can be achieved by pivoting the trim element from a comfort position to a decorative position, i.e., by moving the transmission element in the first direction of motion. Thus, the trim element is pivoted, for example, from a decorative position to a comfort position by moving the engagement element in the second direction of movement. The spindle drive itself is very compact, thereby providing a trim element design that is space-efficient overall. Furthermore, the spindle drive has a simple and therefore robust design, resulting in a simple trim element design overall.

[0008] Furthermore, the trim device of the present invention can achieve extremely high comfort, particularly when getting in and out of the vehicle. By pivoting the trim part from the decorative position to the comfort position, for example, the trim part is pivoted or moved at least partially, in particular at least predominantly or completely, inward in the transverse direction of the vehicle. In particular, it can be provided that when the first trim part is pivoted from the decorative position to the comfort position, an edge of the first trim part that is vertically upward in the decorative position, or an area that is vertically upward in the decorative position, is pivoted inward in the transverse direction of the vehicle. It is also conceivable, for example, that when the second trim part is pivoted from the decorative position to the comfort position, an edge of the second trim part that is vertically downward in the decorative position, or an area that is vertically downward in the decorative position, and / or an edge of the second trim part that is horizontally outward in the decorative position, or an area that is horizontally outward in the decorative position, is pivoted inward in the transverse direction of the vehicle and / or pivoted downward in the transverse direction of the vehicle. By pivoting the trim part from the decorative position to the comfort position, for example, a space or area enclosed by the trim part in the decorative position is opened up. By opening the space, a person exiting the interior through the door opening can, for example, move and position at least one leg in such a way that at least a portion of the leg is placed in or through the opened space. This allows the person to exit the interior easily and comfortably, in particular without the person's legs or trousers coming into contact with the side panels or the trim and becoming soiled thereby.

[0009] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the main shaft can be pivoted about the rotation axis relative to the side panel together with the trim part. This means that when the trim part pivots, the main shaft is also pivoted and, in the process, rotated about the rotation axis, in particular relative to the side panel and preferably also relative to the trim part. This allows for simple mounting of the trim part and space-saving movement, thereby keeping the trim part's space requirement small and its design very simple. To achieve a very simple and compact design of the trim device, it has proven advantageous if the rotation axis, which preferably runs parallel to the pivot axis, is spaced apart from the pivot axis, particularly in the vehicle transverse direction and / or in the vehicle vertical direction. Therefore, the rotation axis is preferably arranged further inwards than the pivot axis in the vehicle transverse direction.

[0010] Another embodiment is characterized in that the motor can be pivoted about the rotation axis relative to the side panel and preferably also relative to the trim part together with the trim part and the spindle. This avoids an overly complex connection between the motor and the spindle or the spindle and the trim part, thus resulting in a very simple design.

[0011] The feature "the spindle or motor is pivotable relative to the side panel about a rotation axis" can particularly mean that the spindle or motor is mounted on the side panel so as to be at least indirectly pivotable relative to the side panel about the rotation axis. The rotation axis is preferably fixed relative to the side panel, so that the rotation axis is not moved relative to the side panel when the trim is pivoted. Alternatively or additionally, the respective pivot axis is preferably fixed relative to the side panel, so that relative movement between the respective pivot axis and the side panel is prevented when the trim is pivoted. Furthermore, the feature "the trim is pivotable relative to the side panel about a pivot axis" can mean that the respective trim is mounted on the side panel so as to be at least indirectly pivotable relative to the side panel about its respective pivot axis. Since the spindle is preferably pivotable relative to the side panel about the rotation axis and can therefore, for example, rotate or pivot relative to the side panel about the rotation axis when the trim is pivoted, when the spindle is pivoted about the rotation axis, for example, the direction of movement pivots relative to the side panel about the rotation axis.

[0012] In order to achieve a particularly simple and space-saving pivoting of the spindle and, preferably, also of the motor, in another embodiment of the present invention, the trim device includes a guide groove, by which the transmission element and, by extension, the spindle are positively guided as the transmission element moves along the spindle. Consequently, the movement of the transmission element along the spindle results in a pivoting of the spindle and, preferably, the motor about the axis of rotation. In other words, due to this positive guidance, for example, when the transmission element moves along the spindle, the transmission element at least indirectly, particularly via a co-movable connecting rod, at least indirectly, particularly directly, bears against the respective walls, for example, that directly delimit the guide groove. The guide groove or walls may, for example, extend in an arcuate and / or oblique manner, particularly with respect to the direction of movement. Thus, the movement of the transmission element along the spindle is converted into a rotation of the spindle and, preferably, the motor, about the axis of rotation relative to the side panel. This positive guidance allows for a cost-effective, simple, and space-saving pivoting of the spindle and, therefore, the trim element. It is preferably provided that the guide groove is fixed in position relative to the side panel, so that a movement of the guide groove relative to the side panel is prevented during a pivoting of the trim part and the spindle therewith.

[0013] Another embodiment provides for a connecting element that is movable with the transmission element, such as the aforementioned connecting rod. This connecting element is particularly articulated to one of the trim parts. Furthermore, the connecting element extends through a corresponding connecting groove, designed as a through-hole, in the other trim part. This means that the connecting groove is formed in the other trim part or in its wall and thus particularly extends completely through the other trim part or wall. Thus, for example, the connecting element is particularly articulatedly connected to one trim part on a first side of the other trim part facing away from the transmission element, wherein the transmission element is arranged on the other trim part's side facing away from the first side and, for example, on a second side of one of the trim parts and, for example, engages or is connected to the connecting element on the second side. This allows for a simple design that is very space-efficient.

[0014] Because the connecting member passes through the connecting groove, the other trim part is also connected to the connecting member, so that the trim part is connected to the transmission member via the connecting member. In particular, the other trim part is also connected to the connecting member in an articulated manner. By connecting the trim part to the connecting member and, via the connecting member, to the transmission member, these trim parts can be pivoted by means of the transmission member via the connecting member by causing the transmission member to move along the main axis. "The other trim part is connected to the connecting member via the connecting groove" can, for example, be defined as follows: when the transmission member is moved along the main axis, the connecting member is moved within the connecting groove along the connecting groove, while the connecting member passes through the connecting groove and is therefore at least partially seated in the connecting groove. Here, the connecting member at least indirectly, in particular directly, abuts against at least one wall portion that supports the other trim part and, in particular, directly delimits the connecting groove, so that the movement or displacement of the connecting member causes the other trim part to pivot.

[0015] In order to maintain a simple design of the trim device, another embodiment of the present invention provides that the guide groove and the connecting groove are separate grooves that are arranged side by side along their respective pivot axes and, for example, at least partially overlap. In this case, the connecting element passes through both the connecting groove and the guide groove, whereby the transmission element is forcibly guided by the connecting element via the guide groove.

[0016] In another particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the trim element is pivotable in opposite directions between the decorative position and the comfort position, thereby enabling a very space-saving rotation of the trim element. "The trim elements are pivotable or can be pivoted in the same direction" particularly means, for example, that the first trim element is pivotable or can be pivoted in a first pivot direction from the decorative position to the comfort position, while the second trim element is pivotable or can be pivoted in a second pivot direction, which is opposite to the first pivot direction, from the decorative position to the comfort position.

[0017] Finally, it has proven particularly advantageous if the pivot axes are spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction of the vehicle, thereby resulting in a particularly simple and compact design.

[0018] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a side trim device for a passenger car, comprising a side trim comprising a first trim member disposed below a door opening in a longitudinal region of the side trim and a second trim member disposed below the door opening in the longitudinal region. The trim device further comprises a drive unit that pivots the first trim member about a first pivot axis and the second trim member about a second pivot axis spaced apart from and extending parallel to the first pivot axis relative to the side trim between a decorative position and a comfort position.

[0019] In order to achieve a simple, space-saving design for the trim device, the second aspect of the present invention provides that the trim element can be pivoted in opposite directions between a decorative position and a comfort position. The advantages and advantageous features of the first aspect of the present invention should be considered as advantages and advantageous features of the second aspect of the present invention, and vice versa. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Further advantages and details of the present invention are obtained from the following description in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a trim device and a side door of a passenger car along a cutting plane extending in the vehicle transverse direction and the vehicle vertical direction;

[0022] Figure 2 A schematic rear perspective view of the trim device according to the first embodiment is shown, wherein the trim element of the trim device is in a decorative position;

[0023] FIG3 shows a rear perspective view of the trim device, wherein the trim element is in an intermediate position between the decorative position and the comfort position;

[0024] FIG4 shows a rear perspective view of the trim device, wherein the trim is in a comfortable position;

[0025] Figure 5 A schematic rear perspective view of a portion of the trim device is shown, wherein the trim member is in a comfortable position;

[0026] Figure 6 A schematic front perspective view of the trim device according to the first embodiment is shown, wherein the trim element is in a decorative position;

[0027] Figure 7 A schematic front perspective view of the trim device is shown, wherein the trim member is in a neutral position;

[0028] Figure 8 A schematic front perspective view of the trim device is shown, wherein the trim member is in a comfort position;

[0029] Figure 9 A schematic rear perspective view of a portion of the trim device according to a second embodiment, wherein the trim element is in a decorative position; and

[0030] Figure 10 A schematic perspective rear view shows a detail of a trim arrangement according to a second embodiment, wherein the trim part is in a central position.

[0031] In the figures, identical or functionally identical components are provided with the same reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a trim device 10 and a passenger car door designed as a side door 12 is shown along a section plane extending in the vehicle transverse direction and in the vehicle vertical direction. Figure 1 Indicated by arrow 14, the arrow points outward in the vehicle transverse direction. Here, the passenger car structure designed as a monocoque has side panels that are spaced apart from each other in the vehicle transverse direction. Figure 1 Only the side panels designated 16 are visible in the figure. Furthermore, the structure has at least one side door opening 18, which is delimited downward in the vertical direction of the vehicle at least partially, in particular at least predominantly or completely, by a side panel 20. It can be seen that at least one longitudinal section L of the side panel 16 is arranged or extends vertically below the door opening 18 and is therefore at least partially, in particular at least predominantly or completely, located at the same height as the door opening 18 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Consequently, at least a portion of the longitudinal section L extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle extends over at least a portion of the longitudinal extent or length of the door opening 18. In particular, the side panel 16 extends, for example, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle between wheel arches arranged one behind the other or one behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. For example, the side panel 20 forms a so-called doorway or a portion of a so-called doorway through which a person moves to exit the passenger compartment defined by the structure into their surroundings or to enter the interior from the surroundings.

[0033] If combined Figure 2 As can be seen from the overview, the trim arrangement 10 comprises a side panel trim 20 comprising a first trim part 22 arranged below the door opening in the longitudinal region L of the side panel 16 and a second trim part 24 arranged below the door opening 18 in the longitudinal region L of the side panel 16. Figure 1 The partial door opening 18 shown here is, for example, a front door opening. The structure may also include a second door opening, arranged behind the front door opening 18 in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Door opening 18 and the second door opening are, for example, arranged on the same side of the structure in the transverse direction of the vehicle. The side panel trim 20 includes a third trim part 22′ and a fourth trim part 24′, which are arranged below the second door opening in the second longitudinal region of the side panel 16. The above and following descriptions of trim part 22 also apply immediately to trim part 22′, and vice versa. The above and following descriptions of trim part 24 also apply immediately to trim part 24′, and vice versa. Therefore, it is provided that trim parts 22 and 24 have the same length extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Furthermore, trim parts 22 and 24 are arranged at least partially, and in particular, at least predominantly or completely, at the same height in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0034] The trim device 10 also includes a drive unit, described in more detail below, that is common to the trim parts 22, 22. The drive unit allows the first trim part 22 to pivot relative to the side panel 16 and relative to the fifth trim part 28 of the side panel trim 20 about a first pivot axis S1, which preferably extends at least substantially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The trim part 28 is fixed relative to the side panel 16 and therefore cannot move relative to the side panel 16. In other words, the trim part 28 is fixed to the side panel. The drive unit allows the second trim part 24 to pivot relative to the trim part 28 and relative to the side panel 16 about a second pivot axis S2, which extends parallel to and is spaced apart from the pivot axis S1. Preferably, the pivot axis S2 is spaced apart from the pivot axis S1, at least in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

[0035] Figure 2-8 A first embodiment is shown, in which the pivot axis S2 is arranged higher in the vertical direction of the vehicle than the pivot axis S1. It is also conceivable that the pivot axes S1 and S2 are arranged staggered relative to each other in the vertical direction of the vehicle, so that, for example, the pivot axis S2 is arranged further inwards or further outwards than the pivot axis S1 in the vertical direction of the vehicle. As an alternative, it is conceivable that the pivot axes S1 and S2 are arranged at the same height in the vertical direction of the vehicle. The pivot axes S1 and S2 extend at least substantially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle or extend parallel to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The trim parts 22 and 24 can be moved by means of a drive unit such as Figure 2 The trim elements 22, 24 pivot relative to the side panel 16 and relative to the trim element 28 fixed thereto between the decorative position V shown and the comfort position K shown in FIG4 . During their respective journeys from the decorative position V to the comfort position K and vice versa, the trim elements 22, 24 adopt a plurality of intermediate positions arranged between the comfort position K and the decorative position V. One of these intermediate positions is shown in FIG3 and designated by z.

[0036] In order to achieve a very simple and space-saving structure of the lining device 10, the drive unit is designed as a spindle drive 30. The spindle drive 30 can be seen in particular clearly from the Figure 5 As can be seen in the figure, a main shaft 32 is common to the trim parts 22 and 24 and can be rotated about a main shaft rotation axis SD relative to the trim parts 22, 24, and 28 and relative to the side panel 16. The respective pivot axis S1 or S2 extends perpendicularly to a first plane, wherein the main shaft rotation axis SD extends perpendicularly to a second plane. In this case, the first plane extends obliquely or perpendicularly to the second plane.

[0037] Furthermore, the spindle drive 30 includes a motor 34, which is shared by the trim parts 22 and 24 and is preferably designed as an electric motor, by which the spindle 32 can be driven and thus rotated about the spindle axis of rotation SD relative to the trim parts 22, 24, and 28 and relative to the side panel 16. Furthermore, the spindle drive 30 includes a transmission element 36, which is shared by the trim parts 22 and 24 and is screwed to the spindle 32 and thus mounted on the spindle 32. Furthermore, the transmission element 36 can be fixed, for example, so as not to rotate relative to the spindle 32 about the spindle axis of rotation SD, or its rotation relative to the spindle 32 about the spindle axis of rotation SD can be at least limited, so that when the spindle 32 is rotated about the spindle axis of rotation SD by the motor 34, the transmission element 36 is moved in a direction of motion, and thus along the spindle 32, relative to the spindle 32. Here, the direction of motion coincides with the spindle axis of rotation SD. If, for example, the spindle 32 is rotated about the spindle rotation axis SD by means of the motor 34 in a first rotational direction, the transmission element 36 is moved relative to the spindle 32 in a first movement direction. If, for example, the spindle 32 is rotated about the spindle rotation axis SD by means of the motor 34 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the transmission element 36 is thereby moved relative to the spindle 32 in a second movement direction opposite to the first movement direction. In this way, the transmission element 36 can be moved back and forth along and relative to the spindle 32. The respective movement directions extend parallel to the aforementioned movement directions and, therefore, parallel to the spindle rotation axis SD. The transmission element 36 is, in particular, articulatedly coupled to the trim parts 22, 24, so that by moving the transmission element 36 along the spindle 32, the trim parts 22, 24 can be pivoted between the decorative position V and the comfort position K.

[0038] Can be obtained from Figure 1 , it can be seen that in the decorative position V the side panel trim 20 extends outwardly in the transverse direction of the vehicle to such an extent that, in the closed state of the side door 12, i.e. when the side door 12 is in its closed position, the side panel trim 20 projects beyond the corresponding door edge 18, which is formed, for example, by a trim, in particular an outer trim, of the bodywork or the side door 12, or at least ends flush with the door edge 38. This extension of the outer panel trim 20 in the decorative position V has the advantage that, by covering the door edge 38 or the entire side door 12 on the bottom side with respect to the transverse direction of the vehicle, damage to the door edge 38 or the entire lower region of the side door 12 due to stone impacts or general soiling can be avoided.

[0039] However, such an extension of the side panel lining 20 can lead to difficulties in entering or exiting the vehicle through the door opening 18, particularly for children and / or elderly persons or persons with limited mobility. This problem can become more pronounced if the side door 12 cannot be fully opened, for example in confined parking situations. In this case, in particular, uncomfortable entry and exit can occur, with the attendant soiling of clothing, particularly trouser legs.

[0040] However, the aforementioned problems can now be avoided in a very simple and space-saving manner. Figure 6-8 As can be seen in the figure, when the trim members 22, 24 are pivoted from the decorative position V to the comfort position K, the uppermost or uppermost edge K1 of the trim member 22 in the decorative position V in the vehicle vertical direction or the uppermost region B1 in the vehicle vertical direction in the decorative position V is pivoted inward in the vehicle transverse direction, and the outermost or outermost edge K2 of the trim member 24 in the vehicle transverse direction or the outermost or outermost region B2 in the vehicle transverse direction in the decorative position V is pivoted downward in the vehicle vertical direction and inward in the vehicle transverse direction. As a result, the trim members 22, 24 in the comfort position K open up a space or region that was surrounded by the trim members 22, 24 in the decorative position V. As a result, a person can move at least one of their legs into the space or region opened up in the comfort position K, thereby easily and comfortably getting in and out of the car. It is also possible to Figure 6 , the edges K1 , K2 in the decoration position V are particularly directly adjacent to each other and / or particularly directly against each other. In other words, the edges K1 and K2 in the decoration position V are particularly directly facing each other.

[0041] from Figure 2 -4, it is particularly clear that the spindle 32 and the motor 34 are pivotable along with the trim parts 22 and 24 about a rotation axis S3, also referred to as the third pivot axis, relative to the side panel 16 and relative to the trim part 28 fixed to the side panel. In the first embodiment, the trim parts 22 and 24 are each individually mounted so as to be rotatable relative to the trim part 28 about their respective pivot axes S1 and S2, and thereby mounted on the side panel 16. Here, the spindle 32 and the motor 34 are mounted so as to be rotatable relative to or on the trim part 28 about the rotation axis S3, and thereby mounted on the side panel 16. Here, the rotation axis S3 extends parallel to the pivot axes S1 and S2, with the rotation axis S3 being spaced apart from the pivot axes S1 and S2, particularly in the vehicle vertical direction and / or vehicle transverse direction. In the first embodiment, the rotation axis S3 is arranged further inwards than the pivot axes S1 and S2 in the vehicle transverse direction.

[0042] Figure 9 and Figure 10 The second embodiment of the lining device 10 is shown. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment particularly with regard to the drive unit, but the embodiments can otherwise correspond to one another. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As can be seen in FIG, the trim device 10 has a curved or arcuate guide groove 40. The guide groove 40 is formed in a wall 42 of the trim part 28 fixed to the side panel and passes completely through the wall 42, so that the guide groove 40 is a through hole or a through slot. The wall 42 is the web of the trim part 28, which web extends in particular at least substantially in a planar manner in the transverse direction and in the vertical direction of the vehicle. Figure 5 As can be seen in FIG, the transmission member 36 is connected or coupled to a connecting member 44, also referred to as a connecting rod, so that the connecting member 44 can move with the transmission member 36 along the spindle and relative to the spindle 32. As will be explained below, the transmission member 36, and consequently the spindle 32 and the motor 34, are forcibly guided by the connecting member 44 via the guide slot 40 as the transmission member 36 moves along the spindle 32. As a result, the movement of the transmission member 36 along the spindle 32 causes the spindle 32 and the motor 34 to pivot about the rotation axis S3. To this end, the connecting member 44 is inserted into the guide slot 40. In the first embodiment, the connecting member 44 is inserted into the corresponding guide slot 40 in such a manner that the connecting member 44 passes through the guide slot 40.

[0043] The connecting member 44 is particularly articulated to the trim part 24, so that the trim part 24 can be pivoted relative to the trim part 28 about its pivot S2 by moving the transmission member 36 and the connecting member 44. Furthermore, the trim device 10 includes a connecting groove 46, for example, designed as a second guide groove, which is formed in the first trim part 22. The connecting groove 46 is formed in the wall of the trim part 22 such that it passes through the wall and, therefore, the trim part 22. In the embodiment shown, the connecting groove 46 is designed as a straight guide having at least one straight or linearly extending guide portion within or along which the connecting member 44 is movable relative to the trim part 22. The connecting member 44 is inserted through the connecting groove 46 so that the connecting member 44 is also inserted into the connecting groove 46. As a result, the trim member 22 is also coupled to the connecting member 44 and, via it, to the transmission member 36 , so that the transmission member 36 and, consequently, the connecting member 44 are moved, thereby also causing the trim member 22 to pivot relative to the trim member 28 about its pivot axis S1 .

[0044] As can be seen, the guide groove 40 and the connecting groove 46 are separate grooves that are arranged one behind the other or one behind the other along their respective pivot axes S1 or S2. The connecting element 44 is connected to the trim 24 on a first side of the trim 22, particularly the wall forming the connecting groove 46 and the web forming the guide groove 40, facing away from the transmission element 36 or the main shaft 32. The main shaft 32 and the transmission element 36 are arranged on a second side of the trim 22, particularly the wall or web of the trim 22, facing away from the first side. Furthermore, the wall forming the connecting groove 46 is arranged between the trim 24 and the web, or between the trim 24 and the transmission element 36 or the main shaft 32, along their respective pivot axes S1 or S2. This results in a simple, robust, and space-saving design.

[0045] In particular, because the connecting groove 46 is designed as a linear guide, when the trim parts 22, 24 are pivoted, the spindle 32, motor 34, and trim parts 22, 24 perform a pivoting motion, i.e., a rotation. This results in, for example, the following motion sequence: The trim part 22 is pivoted, for example, in a first pivoting direction to move the trim part 22 from the comfort position K to the decorative position V. To move or pivot the trim part 22 from the decorative position V to the comfort position K, the trim part 22 is pivoted in a second pivoting direction opposite to the first pivoting direction. To pivot the trim part 24 from the comfort position K to the decorative position V, for example, the trim part 24 is pivoted in a third pivoting direction. To move or pivot the trim part 24 from the decorative position V to the comfort position K, the trim part 24 is pivoted in a fourth pivoting direction opposite to the third pivoting direction. Here, the first pivoting direction and the third pivoting direction are opposite, and the second pivoting direction and the fourth pivoting direction are opposite. If, starting from the decorative position V, the spindle 32 is now rotated such that the transmission element 36 is moved, causing the trim parts 22, 24 to pivot from the decorative position V to the comfort position K, the trim part 22 is first pivoted a short distance in the first pivot direction from the decorative position V before being pivoted in the second pivot direction and into the comfort position K. Correspondingly, the trim part 24 is first pivoted a short distance in the third pivot direction from its decorative position V before being pivoted in the fourth pivot direction and thus into the comfort position K. The opposite applies when pivoting the trim parts 22, 24 from the comfort position K to the decorative position V. To this end, the spindle 32 is rotated such that the transmission element 36 is moved, causing the trim parts 22, 24 to pivot into the decorative position V. However, starting from the comfort position K, the trim part 22 is first pivoted a short distance in the second pivot direction before being pivoted in the first pivot direction and thus into the decorative position V. Accordingly, starting from the comfort position K, the trim part 22 is first rotated a short distance in the fourth pivot direction, and then the trim part 24 is pivoted in the third pivot direction into the decorative position V. Thus, the decorative position V and the comfort position K are, for example, respective dead centers, at which the trim parts 22 and 24 lie flat. However, during the respective adjustment or pivoting, the respective trim part 22 or 24 is not rotated directly from the respective dead center into the respective pivot direction and thus toward the respective other dead center. Instead, the respective trim part 22 or 24 is first moved a short distance beyond the respective dead center, thus leaving the respective other dead center, and then moved back toward the respective dead center, into the respective dead center, beyond the respective dead center, and toward the respective other dead center. The respective position hereinafter is also referred to as "passing the dead center" or "passing the dead center position", i.e., when the respective lining part 22 or 24 moves from the respective dead center to the respective other dead center, the respective lining part 22 or 24, for example, passes the respective dead center and enters this position, wherein the respective lining part 22 or 24 is reversed, so to speak, in this position and then returns again to the respective dead center, enters the respective dead center, passes the respective dead center and finally enters the respective other dead center.

[0046] Furthermore, for example, respective stops are provided against which the respective trim part 22 or 24 bears at least indirectly, in particular directly, when the trim part 22 or 24 is pivoted into the decorative position V or the comfort position K. This is done, for example, when the respective trim part 22 or 24 reaches its respective over-dead center position or its respective dead center. As a result, the trim parts 22 and 24 can be securely held in the decorative position V and the comfort position K.

[0047] The drive unit is controlled, for example, by the passenger car's electronic computer system, so that the drive unit pivots the trim elements 22, 24 accordingly. Pivoting the trim elements 22, 24 between the decorative position V and the comfort position K is, for example, part of a comfort function, which can also include displacing a steering wheel located in the passenger car interior, particularly at least in the vertical direction of the vehicle, to facilitate particularly easy and comfortable entry and exit. For example, this comfort function involves shifting the steering wheel upward in the vertical direction of the vehicle and pivoting the trim elements 22, 24 from the decorative position V to the comfort position K when a person wishes to enter or exit the vehicle. Once the person has entered or exited the vehicle, the steering wheel is again shifted downward in the vertical direction of the vehicle, and the trim elements 22, 24 are moved from the comfort position K to the decorative position V.

[0048] As already explained, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in particular in its drive unit. In the second embodiment, the drive unit is not designed as a spindle drive, for example, but rather the drive unit is configured as in Figure 9 and Figure 10The device denoted by A includes a motor 48, which is typically designed as an electric motor, and a drive shaft 50. The drive shaft can be driven by the motor 48 and thus can rotate about a drive axis 52 relative to the trim part 28, which is fixed to the side panel, and thus relative to the side panel 16. The drive shaft 50 is particularly non-rotatably connected to at least one first link 54, which can rotate about the drive axis 52 relative to the trim part 28. The first link 54 is articulated to a second link 56 such that the links 54 and 56 can rotate relative to each other about a connection axis 58. The connection axis 58 extends parallel to the drive axis 52 and is spaced apart from the drive axis 52. The drive axis 52 and / or the connection axis 58 also extend parallel to the pivot axes S1 and S2. Furthermore, the connection axis 58 and / or the drive axis 52 are spaced apart from the pivot axes S1 and S2. The second link 56 is in turn articulated to the trim part 24 such that the second link 56 and the trim part 52 can rotate relative to each other about a second connection axis 60. The connecting axis 60 extends parallel to the connecting axis 58 and / or to the drive axis 52 and / or to the pivot axes S1 and S2. Furthermore, the connecting axis 60 is preferably spaced apart from the pivot axis S1 and / or the pivot axis S2 and / or the connecting axis 58 and / or the drive axis 52. In the second embodiment, the connecting element 44, which is inserted into the guide groove 40 and the connecting groove 46, and in particular passes through the guide groove 40 and / or the connecting groove 46, is retained on the trim part 24 and thus pivots along the trim part 24, in particular about the second pivot axis S2, relative to the trim part 28. Thus, the trim part 24 is positively guided, for example, by means of the guide groove 40 and by means of the connecting element 44, in particular at least during pivoting of the trim part 24 or the trim parts 22, 24. During the pivoting of the trim part 24, the connecting element 44 is displaced within and along the guide groove 40 and within and along the connecting groove 46. Thus, when the trim part 24 is driven by the motor 48 via the connecting rods 54, 56 and the drive shaft 50 and thus rotates, the connecting part 44 drives the trim part 22, so that the trim part 22 pivots along with the trim part 24. As a result, the trim parts 22, 24 are pivoted, in particular, at least partially jointly or synchronously. As in the first embodiment, when the trim parts 22, 24 are pivoted from the decorative position V to the comfort position K, or vice versa, in the second embodiment, the trim parts also pivot in opposite directions. This allows for a very simple and space-saving design.

Claims

1. A lining device for a car side panel (16), comprising: - a side panel trim (20) comprising a first trim element (22) arranged below the door opening (18) in the longitudinal area (L) of the side panel (16) and a second trim element (24) arranged below the door opening (18) in the longitudinal area (L), and a drive unit (A) by means of which the first trim part (22) can be pivoted about a first pivot axis (S1) and the second trim part (24) can be pivoted about a second pivot axis (S2) spaced apart from and extending parallel to the first pivot axis (S1) relative to the side panel (16) between a decorative position (V) and a comfort position (K), Its characteristics are: The drive unit (A) is designed as a spindle drive device (30), which includes a motor (34) shared by the lining parts (22, 24), a spindle (32) shared by the lining parts (22, 24) and rotatable by means of the motor (34), and a transmission member (36) shared by the lining parts (22, 24) and screwed onto the spindle (32). By rotating the spindle (32) relative to the transmission member (36), the transmission member can be moved along the spindle (32), so that the lining parts (22, 24) can be pivoted.

2. The decorative device according to claim 1, wherein: The main shaft (32) can pivot about the rotation axis (S3) relative to the side panel (16) together with the lining parts (22, 24).

3. The lining device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The rotation axis (S3) is spaced apart from the pivot axis (S1, S2) in the vehicle transverse direction and / or the vehicle vertical direction.

4. The decorative device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The motor (34) is also capable of pivoting about the rotation axis (S3) relative to the side panel (16) along with the trim parts (22, 24) and along with the main shaft (32).

5. The decorative device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: A guide groove (40) is provided, by means of which the transmission member (36) is forcibly guided when the transmission member (36) moves along the main shaft (32), and the main shaft (32) is forcibly guided by the transmission member, so that the main shaft (32) is pivoted about the rotation axis (S3) by the movement of the transmission member (36) along the main shaft (32).

6. The decorative device according to claim 5, wherein: A connecting member (44) is provided which can move along with the transmission member (36). The connecting member is connected to one of the lining members (22, 24) and passes through a corresponding connecting groove (46) of the other lining member, so that the other lining member is also connected to the connecting member (44). The lining members (22, 24) can pivot by means of the connecting member (44) by moving the transmission member (36) along the main shaft (32).

7. The decorative device according to claim 6, wherein: The guide groove (40) and the connecting groove (46) are grooves separated from each other and arranged side by side along their respective pivot axes (S1, S2), wherein the connecting member (44) also passes through the guide groove (40), so that the transmission member (36) is forcibly guided by the guide groove (40) through the connecting member (44).

8. The decorative device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The trim parts (22, 24) are pivotable in opposite directions relative to one another between the decorative position (V) and the comfort position (K).

9. The decorative device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The pivot axes (S1, S2) are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction of the vehicle.

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