Method for manufacturing a drive cable retainer for a vehicle roof and components for a vehicle roof

By using foam technology or low-pressure injection molding to directly surround the conduit with plastic during the manufacturing of the roof drive cable retainer, the problems of complex manufacturing, high cost and large space requirements in traditional methods are solved, achieving the effects of simplified manufacturing, reduced cost and improved noise insulation.

CN116648340BActive Publication Date: 2026-04-03WEBASTO AG
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-10-19
Publication Date
2026-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing technologies for manufacturing roof drive cable retainers present problems such as complex manufacturing, high cost, the need for additional fastening components and large space requirements, and high operating noise.

Method used

One approach involves pre-positioning the conduit in a molding tool and then using a foaming process or low-pressure injection molding to allow the plastic to directly surround the conduit, forming a material-locked connection. This eliminates the need for additional fastening components and seals or covers longitudinal gaps during manufacturing, simplifying the manufacturing process, reducing noise, and saving space.

Benefits of technology

It enables a direct and secure connection between the duct and the roof components, simplifying the manufacturing process, reducing costs, minimizing space requirements, and improving noise insulation during operation, while also meeting the requirements for visibility and installation.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention describes a method for manufacturing a drive cable retainer (101) for a vehicle roof, comprising the following steps: - providing a component (100) for the roof; - positioning the component (100) in a molding tool; - providing a conduit (112) for a drive cable for operating a vehicle sunshade system (104), wherein the conduit (112) has a longitudinal slit (121); - positioning the conduit (112) in the molding tool; - introducing plastic (114) into the molding tool such that - the plastic (114) at least partially surrounds the conduit (112), wherein the plastic (114) is prevented from entering the conduit (112) through the longitudinal slit (121); and - locking the plastic (114) to the surface (102) material of the component (110), thereby - constituting the drive cable retainer (101) fastened to the component (100). A component (100) is also described.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention provides a method for manufacturing a drive cable retainer for a vehicle roof. Furthermore, a component for a vehicle roof having a drive cable retainer is also provided. Background Technology

[0002] The motor vehicle may have a roof opening that can be closed and at least partially opened by means of a movable cover. For example, the movement of the cover is driven by an actuator coupled to the cover by means of a drive cable. Alternatively, the motor vehicle may have a roller shutter that is movable by means of an actuator and a drive cable. The drive cable is guided, for example, in a conduit, as described in document DE 10144 742A1. Summary of the Invention

[0003] It is desirable to propose a method for manufacturing a drive cable retainer for a vehicle roof, which has simple manufacturing and good integration. Furthermore, it is desirable to propose a component for a vehicle roof having a drive cable retainer, wherein the component is cost-effectively and relatively simple to manufacture.

[0004] According to one aspect, a method for manufacturing a drive cable retainer for the roof of a vehicle is disclosed. The method comprises the following steps:

[0005] -Provide components for the roof;

[0006] - Position the component in the forming tool;

[0007] - A conduit for a drive cable of a shading system for operating a vehicle, wherein the conduit has a longitudinal slit or a perforation for the longitudinal slit;

[0008] - Position the conduit in the forming tool;

[0009] - Introduce the plastic into the molding tool, thereby

[0010] --The plastic at least partially surrounds the conduit, wherein it prevents the plastic from entering the conduit through longitudinal slits or from surrounding the conduit within the area of ​​the perforation; and

[0011] --The plastic is locked to the surface material of the component, and thereby

[0012] - This constitutes a drive cable retainer, which is fastened to the component, especially in the case of hardened plastic.

[0013] This method allows for direct attachment of the conduit to the component, eliminating the need for additional fastening elements such as rivets, bolts, or adhesive connections. It also eliminates the need for subsequent insertion of the conduit into the formed channel. Furthermore, fewer method steps are required. Compared to conventional manufacturing methods—where the conduit is subsequently fastened to a plastic part manufactured using injection molding—this method saves steps and thus reduces costs. Additionally, auxiliary mechanisms, typically necessary for inserting the tube into the plastic part, are not required. Moreover, the drive cable holder is more space-efficient than conventional plastic parts. Furthermore, the drive cable holder has smaller installation space requirements and provides particularly good sound insulation relative to the operating noise of the drive cable moving within the conduit. It also enables a small installation space for the drive element. This, for example, allows for increased transparency in the case of a transparent car roof.

[0014] It should be particularly emphasized that the conduit has been slotted before the drive cable retainer is formed. The longitudinal slot extends over a section of the conduit and does not necessarily extend over its entire length. During the manufacture of the drive cable retainer, the longitudinal slot is suitably covered, sealed, or closed before plastic is introduced into the interior of the conduit. For example, the conduit is positioned accordingly and the forming tool is configured such that the wall of the forming tool covers the longitudinal slot. Alternatively or additionally, the forming tool has a protrusion that enters the conduit through the longitudinal slot during manufacturing and thereby protects the longitudinal slot from the entry of plastic. Alternatively or additionally, a sealing element or the like is provided to prevent plastic from entering the conduit.

[0015] Alternatively, perforations are provided for longitudinal slots, allowing for their subsequent introduction with particular ease. Thus, no special measures are required during manufacturing to seal the conduit. A "perforation" is understood as a weak point in the material that allows for easy opening of the tube and / or introduction of the slot.

[0016] For example, it may involve point-like or continuous weak points in the material along the longitudinal / drawing direction. For example, one or more slots (Kerbens) may be provided along the drawing direction.

[0017] After the drive cable retainer is manufactured, the longitudinal slot can therefore be freely accessed directly or introduced later in a simple manner. For example, this eliminates the need for costly subsequent slotting or removal of auxiliary components. The manufacturing process of drive cable retainers with slotted conduits is thus particularly efficient and resource-saving.

[0018] The longitudinal gap is configured, for example, to couple a drive cable within a conduit to a movable element, such as a slider or slide that can be movably guided in a guide rail. Thus, the movable element can be directly coupled and moved. This, for example, enables the operation of a shading system, such as a roller blind, for shading a glass cover or fixed glass component.

[0019] A material-locking connection is formed between the plastic and the component used to fasten the drive cable retainer to the component. Specifically, the plastic is introduced into the molding tool to form the material-locking connection. This eliminates the need for additional mechanical connections to hold the drive cable retainer to the component.

[0020] The drive cable retainer can also serve as an attachment point for frames, edges, and / or components on a vehicle or roof. For this purpose, the drive cable retainer, for example, has a receiving portion and / or a fastening element integrated during manufacturing. This allows for the saving of additional components by integrating the attachment and manufacturing of the drive element, which is required in existing manufacturing processes.

[0021] The catheter is, for example, surrounded by plastic as completely as possible, except for areas where longitudinal slits or perforations are located. Because longitudinal slits or perforations extend only, for example, over a small circumferential area of ​​the catheter, i.e., have a small width or opening in the circumferential direction, even so, the catheter is sufficiently surrounded by plastic in the areas of longitudinal slits or perforations. For example, the plastic surrounds the catheter at least 180°, e.g., 270°, thereby reliably holding the tube in place.

[0022] The component is, for example, a fixed glass element. In this case, the drive cable retainer, together with the conduit, is directly and material-locked to the fixed glass element. Alternatively, the component may be a frame element or multiple frame elements fixedly connected to each other.

[0023] The molding tool is formed, for example, by two molding tool parts or molding tool halves, into which the aforementioned components are inserted and positioned. The molding tool is then, for example, closed, and plastic is introduced. After the plastic has hardened, the molding tool is opened, allowing the component, along with the drive cable retainer, to be demolded and removed.

[0024] If longitudinal slits are mentioned below, then, where applicable, they are similarly referred to as perforations used for longitudinal slits.

[0025] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes: providing a retaining element in the forming tool for retaining the conduit on one side, particularly by the side facing away from the member.

[0026] The conduit is held in place before the plastic is introduced, i.e., its position is fixed during positioning by means of retaining elements. Unilateral fixation means that the conduit is held from one side only by means of a retaining element. Thus, no other retaining element is needed to hold the conduit from the other side. In other words, a single retaining element is provided in the forming tool, which is sufficient to hold the conduit in a defined area within the forming tool. The retaining element is particularly located on the side of the forming tool opposite to the component. Multiple retaining elements can also be provided, spaced apart from each other in a point-like manner, each holding the conduit unilaterally in the forming tool. Between the retaining elements, the conduit is freely accessible within the forming tool. Therefore, the conduit can be completely surrounded by plastic in the area below the retaining element, up to complete enclosure except for longitudinal gaps or perforations. The conduit is not completely surrounded by plastic on the retaining element, but only partially. This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the component is a fixed glass element. In such a case, the retaining element for holding the tube from a second side must either remain in the component after the plastic is introduced, or the retaining element must protrude through the component so that it can be removed from the component later. In both cases, this would severely disrupt the visual appearance of a typically transparent fixed glass element, which is unacceptable to the customer, not to mention the potential mechanical weaknesses that could lead to the glass breaking in the worst-case scenario.

[0027] According to at least one embodiment, the method has:

[0028] -The retaining element is removed after the plastic is introduced; and thus...

[0029] - A free passage to the conduit is formed at the position of the drive cable retainer corresponding to the retaining element.

[0030] After the plastic is introduced, the retaining element is removed. This creates a free channel to the conduit at the position corresponding to the retaining element on the drive cable retainer. This free channel is maintained without adversely affecting the stability of the drive cable retainer. The retaining element is configured, for example, as a cone or funnel shape. The free channel is therefore formed concave (negativ), i.e., funnel-shaped, after the component is demolded.

[0031] According to at least one embodiment, the method has:

[0032] - In the case of introducing plastic, the retaining element is at least partially embedded along with the plastic; and thereby

[0033] - Retaining element (107) is retained in the manufactured drive cable retainer.

[0034] In this embodiment, one or more retaining elements are retained within the drive cable retainer, thereby eliminating the need for additional steps, such as steps for removing these retaining elements. Based on their unilateral arrangement on the side facing away from the component, the retaining elements do not further interfere. In particular, the retaining elements can be covered by a finish, such as a canopy.

[0035] According to at least one embodiment, the retaining element is a clamping or locking element or adhesive tape. The clamping or locking element is locked to the tube during or after conduit positioning, but before plastic introduction. The retaining element has a corresponding molding and / or a corresponding material, such as a side recess. Alternatively, the retaining element is adhesive tape, such as double-sided adhesive tape, thereby enabling the retaining element to be secured in the molding tool and to maintain the position of the conduit until the plastic is finally introduced into the molding tool.

[0036] According to at least one embodiment, the forming tool has an integral retaining element configured to retain the conduit on one side, particularly from the side opposite to the member. The method has the following characteristics:

[0037] - After the plastic is introduced into the molding tool, the molding tool with integrated retaining elements is removed; and thus

[0038] - A free passage to the conduit is formed at the position of the drive cable retainer corresponding to the integrated retaining element.

[0039] Therefore, the molding tool itself has a corresponding retaining element, which is removed during demolding. The same applies to the above.

[0040] Combinations of the above-described embodiments of the retaining element can also be considered. For example, different retaining elements can be used.

[0041] According to at least one embodiment, the drive cable holder is frame-shaped and has a longitudinal frame section that extends along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and is associated with a guide rail for a sunshade system in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable holder. Longitudinal slots or perforations are formed along the longitudinal frame section. The longitudinal slots thereby enable direct coupling to or within the guide rail of a drive element, such as a slider or slide block. The drive cable holder is thus a one-piece frame of the component. The frame extends, for example, entirely or partially along the component, in the edge region of the component, for example, around a roof opening in the predetermined installation state of the component. For example, the drive cable holder has one or more receiving portions, which are formed by a molding tool during the manufacture of the drive cable holder. Alternatively or additionally, one or more fastening elements are positioned in the molding tool and are correspondingly surrounded and held by the plastic after the plastic is introduced. The receiving portions and / or fastening elements are used, for example, for coupling with the guide rail. The frame can also be used to attach components, such as fixed glass elements, to a vehicle, where additional receiving parts and / or fastening elements can be provided, as described above. Therefore, the drive cable retainer can achieve a multi-functional, one-piece component.

[0042] According to at least one embodiment, after manufacturing the drive cable holder, the guide rail for the roof shading system is fastened to the drive cable holder in the longitudinal frame section. Thus, the guide rail is directly mounted on the drive cable holder, wherein longitudinal slots or perforations are open / oriented or accessible to the guide rail, particularly to the guide rail channel. This allows for direct connection between the slider / slider and the drive cable in the guide tube to drive the slider / slider and thereby operate the shading system.

[0043] According to at least one embodiment, the drive cable retainer has a transverse frame section that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state and is integrally formed with the longitudinal frame section. The one-piece drive cable retainer thus has two sections that seamlessly transition into each other. A conduit, for example, also extends in the transverse frame section. The transverse frame section, for example, is configured as a supply area for the drive cable from the electric actuator to the longitudinal section and thus to the guide rail.

[0044] According to one configuration, a retainer for an actuator is provided. The retainer is positioned in a molding tool before the introduction of plastic. The plastic is introduced into the molding tool such that, if constituting an actuator retainer, the plastic holds the retainer. The retainer is positioned, in particular, relative to a component and a conduit, in a predetermined position where the actuator should be mounted in the completed drive cable retainer. The actuator is, for example, an electric actuator and has, for example, an electric motor. The electric motor, in a ready state, contacts, in particular, the drive cable guided in the conduit, enabling the actuator to move the guide cable along the conduit. Alternatively, the retainer is manufactured as a one-piece, integrated component of the drive cable retainer. Thus, an interface for mounting the actuator is integrated into the drive cable retainer.

[0045] According to at least one embodiment, a plurality of conduits are provided, each configured to guide a drive cable. The plurality of conduits are positioned in a forming tool. Similarly adapted to the above, the conduits are positioned side-by-side and / or stacked in different layers. The layers are spaced apart from each other and parallel to the main extension direction of the conduits. In particular, the conduits are vertically arranged in different layers relative to each other in a ready-to-go state. This allows for a small installation space requirement for the drive cable holder. Furthermore, a narrow spacing between the conduits can be achieved.

[0046] According to at least one embodiment, the conduits are positioned in a forming tool with at least partial overlap. This allows for the crossing and overlapping of the conduits. Consequently, the small installation space requirement for the drive cable holder can be achieved.

[0047] According to at least one embodiment, a drive cable is provided. After a drive cable holder is constructed, the drive cable is introduced into a conduit. It is feasible to first construct the drive cable holder on a component, the drive cable holder having one or more conduits. Then, one or more drive cables can be easily introduced into the respective conduits.

[0048] According to at least one embodiment, the drive cable retainer is constructed using a foaming process. Specifically, plastic is foamed relative to a molding tool. The plastic is, for example, polyurethane. The conduit is covered by plastic foam within the molding tool. For example, a so-called RIM (Reaction Injection Moulding) process or another low-pressure process is applied. For example, two different components, such as isocyanates or polyols, are introduced in liquid form into a convection mixing head, homogenized, and introduced into the molding tool under a low pressure, for example, up to a maximum of 6 bar. There, the components react to form polyurethane. The low pressure applied in the foaming process prevents deformation of the conduit. The conduit is, for example, a plastic tube. It is thus possible to use a flexible, relatively thin-walled conduit. The low internal pressure within the molding tool prevents bending and deformation of the conduit in the case of the drive cable retainer.

[0049] According to another aspect, a component for the roof of a vehicle is disclosed, having a drive cable retainer according to the above embodiment. The embodiments, features, and advantages described for the method also apply to the component, and vice versa. The component essentially achieves the aforementioned advantages and functions.

[0050] According to another aspect, a component for a vehicle roof is disclosed, comprising a drive cable retainer. The drive cable retainer has a retaining body made of plastic. The drive cable retainer has a conduit, which is at least partially embedded in the retaining body. The retaining body is integrally formed and is locked to the component material. The retaining body has a transverse member that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer in the vehicle. The transverse member has a first profile that forms a receiving portion for one or more components of a sunshade system, particularly for receiving the vehicle roof.

[0051] The implementation methods, features, and advantages described in the method also apply to the component, and vice versa. The component is manufactured in a manner similar to the method described above. The component essentially achieves the aforementioned advantages and functions.

[0052] The directly molded retainer allows for relatively small installation space requirements while providing reliable support for the conduit. Furthermore, it enables flexible configurations of the conduit's position relative to the component. No additional fasteners are needed to secure the drive cable retainer to the component. This results in a high degree of integration.

[0053] In particular, advantageously, in the case of components, one or more receiving parts for the shading system are provided directly during the manufacturing process of the drive cable retainer. Such receiving parts thus become an integral part of the integrated drive cable retainer. In particular, receiving parts that enable connection between the component and the drive cable retainer are involved. In other words, the receiving part is a specially shaped part of the retainer for mounting components, such as vehicle roofs. For example, in the case of form-locking, installation is achieved by locking, where, in particular, no additional fastening elements are provided. For example, a vehicle roof with a top opening for decorating the roof can be easily assembled into one or more receiving parts. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving part can be provided as a storage location, for example, for a tow hook (Zugspriegel). Alternatively or additionally, the receiving part can be configured as a guide channel or rail in which or on the components of the shading system can slide.

[0054] Transverse members can involve the aforementioned transverse sections or individual elements. Transverse members can be crossbars or beams. Transverse members can be part of a frame, mounted to the structural members, especially foamed ones.

[0055] According to at least one embodiment, the drive cable retainer is frame-shaped and has a longitudinal frame section that extends along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer. The longitudinal frame section and the transverse member are integrally formed. A guide rail for a roof shading system is fastened to the drive cable retainer in the longitudinal frame section. A conduit has a longitudinal slot or perforation in the longitudinal frame section, which is associated with the guide rail and freely accessible, i.e., open outwards or toward the guide rail. The guide rail has a second profile that forms a receiving portion for one or more components of the shading system.

[0056] According to at least one embodiment, the first profile of the transverse member and the second profile of the guide rail transition into each other, particularly regarding the shape configuration of the receiving portion. In other words, the profiles are aligned and / or flush. In other words, the profiles transition into each other “seamlessly”.

[0057] According to at least one embodiment, the retainer has a transverse frame section that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer in the vehicle and is integrally formed with the longitudinal frame section. A conduit is at least partially embedded in the transverse frame section. A retainer for the actuator of the shading system is formed in the transverse frame section. The transverse frame section is thus also integrally formed with the transverse member.

[0058] According to at least one embodiment, the component is a frame element, a plurality of connected frame elements, or a fixed glass element for a roof opening.

[0059] According to at least one embodiment, the retainer is elastically configured such that the drive cable retainer has a head injury coefficient below 1500. In particular, it is feasible to construct a retainer with elastic, energy-absorbing rigidity by applying PUR foam, thereby making the retainer a plastic foam that acts as an absorber. This allows a head injury coefficient below 1500 in the roof area. The head injury coefficient (HIC) is, for example, legally predetermined. For example, it is feasible to achieve a head injury coefficient below 1000 by means of a retainer made of foamed plastic. Thus, the drive cable retainer serves not only to retain the conduit and (if necessary) the drive, but also as an absorber, so that the required head injury coefficient can be achieved in the roof area. This eliminates the need for additional absorber foam components that would otherwise be required, thereby reducing assembly and component costs. Furthermore, this allows for a high degree of integration.

[0060] The above-described extensions of the method and components are similarly applicable. For example, multiple conduits can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0061] Further advantages, features, and extensions arise from the embodiments illustrated below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Identical, similar, or functional elements can be provided with the same reference numerals across the drawings. This is shown as follows:

[0062] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the components according to one embodiment; and

[0063] Figures 2 to 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of the component. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Figure 1 A component 100 for the roof of a motor vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Component 100 relates to a fixed glass element that is inserted into a top opening in the roof. Component 100 can also be a single or multi-piece roof frame component, for example, made of plastic or metal such as sheet metal.

[0065] Component 100 has a drive cable retainer 101, which is integrally formed and directly foamed onto the surface 102 of component 100. The drive cable retainer 100 has a retainer body 103 made of plastic. The retainer body 103 is formed, for example, of polyurethane. The retainer body 103 is materially locked to component 100.

[0066] Component 100 has a shading system 104, which, in a predetermined installation state, is positioned on the front side 106 of component 100 in the vehicle's longitudinal direction 105 (X direction, i.e., the longitudinal direction). The shading system 104 is, for example, a roller blind structure for shading component 100 and has corresponding components such as traction hooks, roller blind tracks, sliders, and / or others. Furthermore, component 100 also has two longitudinal sides 107 and a rear side 108.

[0067] The drive cable holder 101 is configured as a frame and has two opposing longitudinal frame sections 109 and at least one transverse frame section 110 in a region of the rear side 108. The longitudinal frame sections 109 are respectively associated with guide rails for operating the shading system 104 and are configured, for example, symmetrically with each other. Furthermore, the drive cable holder 101 has transverse members 111 arranged almost parallel inwards and offset relative to the transverse frame sections 110 in a region of the rear side 108. All sections of the drive cable holder 101 are constructed as a single piece and foamed onto the member 100.

[0068] The drive cable holder 100 has one or more conduits 112, as will be described below. The conduits 112 are configured to guide the drive cable through which the shading system 104 can be operated. The drive cable is driven by a driver 113.

[0069] The retainer 103 is specifically constructed of foamed plastic 114. The retainer 103 is manufactured using a foaming process, in which a relatively small pressure of up to a maximum of 6 bar exists in the molding tool. In the case of foaming in the molding tool, the plastic 106 expands, correspondingly surrounding the component within the molding tool. This eliminates the need for injection molding of the plastic part. The retainer 103 is also manufactured without the aid of an injection molding process, in which a relatively high internal pressure exists in the molding tool. This relatively high internal pressure, for example, can cause the relatively thin-walled conduit 112 to bend and deform.

[0070] According to the following text Figures 2 to 7 Further details are described in all figures, which show schematic cross-sectional views of component 100 at different locations.

[0071] Figure 2 The cross section XX of the transverse frame member 110 is shown, in which two conduits 112 are held side by side in the retainer 103. The conduits 112 are, for example, plastic tubes and are materially locked to the retainer 103. The retainer 103 segmentally and completely surrounds the conduits 112 to retain them. Particularly transverse to the longitudinal direction 105 of the vehicle, the conduits 112 are segmentally and radially completely surrounded by the retainer 103.

[0072] The conduit 112 is held in place by fastening it directly within the foamed plastic 114 of the retainer 103, eliminating the need for later insertion of the conduit into the retainer 103. This eliminates the need for structural auxiliary mechanisms for later insertion of the conduit. It also allows for smaller installation space requirements and is less expensive and more efficient in manufacturing and assembly. This reduces the installation space required for the component 100 and the drive cable retainer 101. It also improves transparency when the component 100 is used as a fixed glass element. Furthermore, it reduces the area occupied by the component 100 within the top opening.

[0073] The conduits 112 can be arranged side-by-side, overlapping, or staggered. The retainer 103, after the plastic 114 has hardened, provides sufficient support for the conduits 112, thereby ensuring reliable guidance of the drive cable during operation. It reliably supports tensile and / or compressive forces.

[0074] In the described foaming process, plastic 114 expands in the molding tool such that it sufficiently surrounds conduit 112 to hold it in place. It is also possible for three, four, or more tubes to be arranged overlapping at small intervals, as the plastic can also surround such a geometry by means of foaming. Conduit 112 must be held in only a few locations in the molding tool during the foaming process. In the remaining areas, plastic 114 radially and completely surrounds conduit 112 after hardening.

[0075] The drive cable retainer 100 is configured on the other side of the driver 113 according to the cross section XX.

[0076] Figure 3 An exemplary illustration shows how the conduit 112 is held in a forming tool during the manufacture of the retainer 103. For this purpose, a retaining element 115 is provided. This retaining element is fixedly arranged in the forming tool and holds the conduit 112 on one side, i.e., from the side opposite to the member 100. For this purpose, the retaining element 115 has a side recess 116 to lock the conduit 112 in a locking manner. For example, the retaining element 115 is implemented in a clip-on manner.

[0077] In the molding tool, the conduit 112 is held point-by-point by a plurality of retaining elements 115. The retaining elements 115 can be an integrated component of the molding tool or a separate element. For example, the retaining elements 115 are removed after the plastic 114 has hardened. In the finished retainer 103, free passages 117 to the conduit 112 are formed at positions corresponding to the retaining elements 115. These free passages, however, are formed only in a small portion of the conduit 112, thereby providing sufficient support for the conduit 112 via the retainer 103.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, the retaining element 115 is retained in the completed retainer 103 and thus in the drive cable retainer 100.

[0079] Figure 4 The diagram shows a cross-section AA through the longitudinal frame section 109, in which two conduits 112 are stacked. Furthermore, a guide rail 118 is mounted on the longitudinal frame section 109 of the drive cable holder 100. The guide rail 118 has a guide rail channel 119 in which the slider 120 of the shading system 104 is movably supported. The lower conduit 112 has a longitudinal slot 121 along the longitudinal frame section 109. The longitudinal slot 121 opens toward the guide rail channel 119, thereby allowing the drive cable to be directly and shortly coupled to the slider 120. The longitudinal slot 121 extends at least along the length corresponding to the movement of the slider 120.

[0080] The longitudinal slit 121 is provided in the manufacture of the drive cable retainer 100, that is, the conduit 112 together with the longitudinal slit 121 is positioned in the forming tool, wherein, in the case of the introduction of plastic 114, the longitudinal slit 121 is sealed or covered, so that the plastic 114 cannot flow into the conduit 112. This achieves the advantages and functions mentioned at the beginning.

[0081] Figure 5 The cross-section BB through the longitudinal frame section 109 is shown, which is substantially similar to the cross-section AA, with the addition that the fastening of the guide rail 118 is shown. For this purpose, a fastening receiver 122 is integrated into the retainer 103. The fastening receiver 122 has, for example, a threaded insert by which the guide rail 118 is screwed to the retainer 103 in the longitudinal frame section 109. The fastening receiver 122 is manufactured in the foaming process. The threaded insert can be installed before and after foaming. Various other configurations for fastening are also conceivable.

[0082] Figure 6 and 7 The cross sections CC and DD of the transverse member 111 are shown at two different locations. The transverse member 111 does not have a conduit. At a defined location, the transverse member 111 has a first profile 123 according to cross section CC, which constitutes a receiving portion 124 for one or more components of the shading system 104. The receiving portion 124 is configured in particular to allow the canopy to form-lock with the transverse member 111, especially in the absence of additional fastening elements. Furthermore, the first profile 123 of the transverse member 111 is configured in cross section CC to form a support portion 125 for the hook 126. At other locations, the transverse member 111 is configured according to cross section DD to form only the support portion 125.

[0083] According to Figure 4 and 5As can be seen, the guide rail 118 has a second profile 127, which also constitutes the receiving part 128, so that the canopy can also be form-locked and fastened to the guide rail 118. The first and second profiles 123 and 127 can transition into each other, for example, seamlessly.

[0084] The fastening of the canopy to the transverse member 111 and the guide rail 118 allows for a particularly simple and space-saving compact construction.

[0085] The actuator 113 is fastened, for example, to a retainer (not explicitly shown), which is an integrated part of the drive cable retainer 100. This retainer is, for example, part of the retainer body 103 and has a corresponding molding. Alternatively, the retainer, similar to the conduit 112, is co-positioned in a molding tool during manufacturing and connected to the retainer body 103 by the introduction of plastic 114, for example, material locking. Thus, for example, it is possible for the drive cable retainer 100, together with the retainer and the conduit 112, to be directly molded onto the component 100. Multiple retainers and actuators can also be provided.

[0086] The driver 113 is, in particular, an electric driver and, for example, has an electric motor. The electric motor engages with the drive cable in a ready state, thereby enabling the driver 113 to move the drive cable relative to the corresponding conduit 112 along the longitudinal direction 105 of the vehicle.

[0087] The manufacture of the component along with the drive cable retainer is briefly discussed again below. Component 100, together with conduit 112 and, if necessary, other components, such as the aforementioned retainer and additional conduit, is introduced into a molding tool. Conduit 112 is held in a predetermined position relative to component 100 by retaining element 115. The inner wall of the molding tool has a shape that should subsequently face the retainer 103. Then, a plastic to be foamed is introduced into the molding tool; this plastic, for example, is composed of multiple components. In particular, plastic 114 is introduced into the molding tool under a low pressure below 10 bar, especially between 1 bar and 6 bar. There, the components react and foam into polyurethane. Here, plastic 114 expands such that it surrounds conduit 112 and forms a material-locked connection with component 100, particularly on surface 102.

[0088] Cost-effective manufacturing and a high degree of integration can be achieved by directly foaming the drive cable retainer 101 on the component 100.

[0089] Figure label:

[0090] 100 components

[0091] 101 Drive Cable Retainer

[0092] 102 Surface

[0093] 103 Maintain body

[0094] 104 Shading System

[0095] 105 Vehicle longitudinal direction

[0096] 106 Front

[0097] 107 longitudinal and lateral

[0098] 108 rear side

[0099] 109 Longitudinal Frame Section

[0100] 110 Transverse Frame Section

[0101] 111 Horizontal component

[0102] 112 catheter

[0103] 113 drive

[0104] 114 Plastic

[0105] 115 Holding element

[0106] 116 Lateral concave portion

[0107] 117 Free Passage

[0108] 118 guide rail

[0109] 119 Guide Rail Channel

[0110] 120 Slider

[0111] 121 Longitudinal gap

[0112] 122 Fastening receiving part

[0113] 123 First outline

[0114] 124 Receiving Department

[0115] 125 Support section

[0116] 126 Hook Frame

[0117] 127 Second Shape

[0118] 128 Receiving Department

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a drive cable retainer (101) for the roof of a vehicle, comprising the following steps: - Provide a component (100) for the roof; - Position the component (100) in the forming tool; - A conduit (112) is provided for the drive cable of the shading system (104) of the vehicle, wherein, The catheter (112) has a longitudinal slit (121) or a perforation for the longitudinal slit (121); - Position the conduit (112) in the forming tool; - Plastic (114) is introduced into the molding tool, thereby -- The plastic (114) at least partially surrounds the conduit (112), wherein the plastic (114) prevents the plastic (114) from entering the conduit (112) through the longitudinal slit (121) or from surrounding the conduit (112) within the range of the perforation; and -- The plastic (114) is locked to the surface (102) material of the component (100), and thereby - The drive cable retainer (101) is formed and is fastened to the member (100). The drive cable holder (101) is frame-shaped and has a longitudinal frame section (109) that extends along the longitudinal direction (105) of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable holder (101) and is associated with a guide rail for the sunshade system (104). The longitudinal slot (121) or the perforation is formed along the longitudinal frame section (109). After manufacturing the drive cable holder (101), a guide rail (118) for the sunshade system (104) for the roof is fastened to the drive cable holder (101) in the longitudinal frame section (109). The guide rail (118) has a guide rail channel (119) in which a slider (120) of the sunshade system (104) is movably supported and extends through the longitudinal slot (121).

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising: A retaining element (115) is provided in the forming tool for retaining the conduit (112) on one side.

3. The method according to claim 2, comprising: A retaining element (115) is provided in the forming tool for unilaterally retaining the conduit (112) from the side facing away from the member (100).

4. The method according to claim 2, comprising: - Remove the retaining element (115) after introducing the plastic (114); and thereby - A free passage (117) to the conduit (112) is formed at the position of the drive cable retainer (101) corresponding to the retaining element (115).

5. The method according to claim 2, comprising: - When the plastic (114) is introduced, at least part of it is embedded in the retaining element (115); and thereby - The retaining element (115) is retained in the manufactured drive cable retainer (101).

6. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The retaining element (115) is a clamping or locking element or an adhesive tape.

7. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The forming tool has an integrated retaining element (115) configured to retain the conduit (112) on one side, and the method has the following characteristics: - After the plastic (114) is introduced into the molding tool, the molding tool with the integrated retaining element (115) is removed; and thereby - A free passage (117) to the conduit (112) is formed at the position of the drive cable retainer (101) corresponding to the integrated retaining element (115).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The drive cable retainer (101) has a transverse frame section (110) that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction (105) of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer (101) in the vehicle and is integrally formed with the longitudinal frame section (109).

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The drive cable retainer (101) is constructed using a foaming process.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, comprising: - Provide multiple conduits (112) for each drive cable.

11. A component (100) for a vehicle roof (200) having a drive cable retainer (101) manufactured by the method according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein: - The drive cable retainer (101) has a retainer (103) made of plastic (114); - The drive cable holder (101) has a conduit (112) for the drive cable of the vehicle’s shading system (104), wherein the conduit (112) has a longitudinal slit (121) or a perforation that is freely accessible. - The retainer (103) is constructed in one piece and is locked to the surface (102) material of the component (100).

12. A component (100) for a vehicle roof (200) having a drive cable retainer (101), wherein: - The drive cable retainer (101) has a retainer (103) made of plastic (114); - The drive cable retainer (101) has a conduit (112) that is at least partially embedded in the retainer (103); - The retainer (103) is constructed as a single piece and is materially locked to the component (100); - The retainer (103) has a transverse member (111) that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction (105) of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer (101) in the vehicle; and - The transverse member (111) has a first profile (123) that forms a receiving portion (124) for one or more components of the shading system (104). - The drive cable retainer (101) is frame-shaped and has a longitudinal frame section (109) that extends along the longitudinal direction (105) of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer (101). - The guide rail (118) for the shading system (104) for the roof is fastened to the drive cable holder (101) in the longitudinal frame section (109); - The conduit (112) has a longitudinal slit (121) or a perforation in the longitudinal frame section (109), the longitudinal slit or the perforation being associated with the guide rail (118) and freely accessible; - The guide rail (118) has a guide rail channel (119) in which the slider (120) of the shading system (104) is movably supported and extends through the longitudinal slit (121).

13. The component (100) according to claim 12, wherein, The receiving unit (124) is configured to receive the vehicle roof.

14. The component (100) according to claim 12, wherein: - The longitudinal frame section (109) and the transverse member (111) are integrally formed; and - The guide rail (118) has a second profile (127) that forms a receiving portion (128) for one or more components of the shading system (104).

15. The component (100) according to claim 14, wherein, The first profile (123) of the transverse member (111) and the second profile (127) of the guide rail (118) transition into each other therein.

16. The component (100) according to claim 15, wherein, The first profile (123) of the transverse member (111) and the second profile (127) of the guide rail (118) transition into each other in terms of the shape configuration of the receiving part (124, 128).

17. The component (100) according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein, - The retainer (103) has a transverse frame section (110) that extends transversely to the longitudinal direction (105) of the vehicle in a predetermined installation state of the drive cable retainer (101) in the vehicle and is integrally formed with the longitudinal frame section (109). - The conduit (112) is at least partially embedded in the transverse frame section (110); and - A retainer for the actuator (113) of the shading system (104) is formed in the transverse frame section (110).

18. The component (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the component is a frame element, a plurality of connected frame elements, or a fixed glass element for a roof opening of the roof.

Citation Information

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