Safety device of vehicle door handle assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly, comprising:-a support (10) configured to be fixed to a column of a vehicle door,-a door handle structure configured to move relative to the support (10) between a stationary handle position and a movable handle position allowing the vehicle door to be opened, -a blocking element (12) configured to move relative to the support (10) between a blocking position and an emergency position, in which the blocking element comprises first guide means configured to cooperate with complementary first guide means of the support (10), to allow a translational movement of the blocking element relative to the support (10) along a translational axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a door handle assembly, particularly in the case of an automatic door lock controlled by an electric device, and to a vehicle including such a safety device.

[0002] Without limitation, the present invention is particularly applicable to vehicle wing door handles. Background Art

[0003] An automatic door latch selectively locks or releases a door panel in an automatic manner. The automatic door latch is herein designated as a door latch provided with a sensor configured to detect a user's hand to open the door latch. Once the door panel is released, the user or an electric door panel actuator swings or slides the door panel to allow physical access to the vehicle.

[0004] However, in such an electrical system, problems may arise when the door can no longer be electrically opened, particularly in the case of a collision accident or due to a depleted vehicle battery.

[0005] To attempt to solve this problem, a handle device can be provided in which a rotatable transmission rod connected to a handle element is locked against rotation by a safety system when the handle element is operated with a force below a predetermined threshold. Thus, if a user operates the handle element with a force below the predetermined threshold, they activate the electrical opening system of the handle device. If a user operates the handle element with a force above the predetermined threshold, the user disengages the safety system of the handle device.

[0006] However, this involves complex rotational mechanical interactions between components, particularly between the reversible deformation legs of a locking member that cooperate with a cam on the mechanical part of the handle for release.

[0007] Furthermore, while such a safety system can be adapted to a conventional handle, it cannot be seamlessly integrated into any handle, such as into a wing door handle.

[0008] Wing door handles are popular due to their unique appearance and enhanced functionality, thus providing easier gripping for drivers and passengers. However, smaller wing door handles can pose challenges when incorporating mechanical components, such as integrating a handle safety system as described above.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a safety system for a door handle assembly that is easier to design and integrate into a handle.

[0010] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a safety system for a door handle assembly that can be integrated with a door handle assembly of a wing door handle and preferably with any type of door handle assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0011] To this end, the present invention relates to a safety device for a door handle assembly, the safety device comprising:

[0012] - a support member configured to be fixed to a pillar of the door,

[0013] - a door handle structure configured to move relative to the support member between a rest handle position and an active handle position allowing the vehicle door panel to open,

[0014] - a blocking element configured to move relative to the support member between a blocking position and an emergency position, in the blocking position, the blocking element prevents the door handle structure from moving relative to the support member, in the emergency position, the blocking element allows the door handle structure to move relative to the support member from the rest handle position to the active handle position, for example when the door handle structure is subjected to a pulling or pushing strain,

[0015] wherein the blocking element comprises a first guiding means configured to cooperate with a complementary first guiding means of the support member to allow translational movement of the blocking element relative to the support member along a translation axis.

[0016] Thanks to the safety device according to the invention, it is possible to provide a locking of the door handle structure which does not require a rotating element known from the prior art for this purpose.

[0017] Although the invention is not limited thereto, the invention finds a particular application in wing door handles. In fact, the cooperation of the guiding means of the blocking element with the guiding means of the support member to define a translational movement allows a simplified mechanical connection to be integrated with a wing door handle.

[0018] According to various features of the invention which can be taken alone or in combination with each other, the invention can comprise the following features:

[0019] - the safety device is configured to be electrically activated,

[0020] - the blocking element comprises at least one element, such as at least one longitudinal element, such as a first longitudinal

[0021] element and a second longitudinal element, which are arranged to cooperate with the door handle structure only in the blocking position to

[0022] prevent the door handle structure from moving, for example relative to the support member, in the blocking position,

[0023] - more particularly, the blocking element comprises at least one longitudinal element, the first longitudinal element; and another longitudinal element, the second longitudinal element being arranged to be in the blocking position or in the emergency

[0024] position, and

[0025] fits with the support member at the position and with the door handle structure at the blocking position,

[0026] - The blocking element includes the first longitudinal element; and the second longitudinal element,

[0027] - The support member includes at least two parts, each part having a surface extending in a plane,

[0028] The surfaces have receiving means each intended to cooperate with a respective one of the longitudinal elements, the planes being different from each other,

[0029] - At least one longitudinal element has a shape that tapers downwards towards its end (e.g. its end),

[0030] - The safety device includes an activation element configured to activate the blocking element and capable of moving between a non-activated position and an activated position, the blocking element being configured to cooperate with the activation element such that when the activation element moves from the non-activated position to the activated position, the blocking element moves from the blocking position to the emergency position,

[0031] - The blocking element includes elastic means that cooperate with the support member to hold the blocking element in the blocking position when the activation element is in the non-activated position, the activation element being configured to rotate about an activation axis, for example the activation axis forms an angle of 70 degrees to 110 degrees, for example 90 degrees, with the translation axis such that the activation

[0033] axis is orthogonal to the translation axis,

[0034] - The activation element is configured to be activated by an electronic device,

[0035] - The door handle structure includes second guiding means configured to cooperate with complementary second guiding means of the support member to allow a rotational movement of the door handle structure relative to the support member,

[0036] - The second guiding means of the door handle structure includes slots, and the complementary second guiding means of the support member

[0037] includes guiding pins, each guiding pin cooperating with one of the slots, for example each guiding pin

[0038] cooperates with one of the slots,

[0039] - The second guiding means of the door handle structure includes slots, and the complementary second guiding means of the support member

[0040] includes guiding pins, each guiding pin cooperating with one of the slots, for example each guiding pin

[0041] cooperates with one of the slots, for example each guiding pin

[0042] extends at least partially within one of said slots

[0043] - wherein said support member includes arms, each arm supporting one of said guide pins

[0044] - said slots of said second guiding means have a curved shape

[0045] - the slots are designed such that for example the ratio of the length of a first slot to the length of a second slot in the slots is

[0046] defined so as to allow rotational movement of the door handle structure relative to the support member and / or so as to allow movement of the actuating element of the door handle assembly, for example the movement of the actuating element of the door handle as defined below, such that the actuating element can cooperate with an activation lever, for example with a control cam of the activation lever, for example so as to open the door panel

[0047] On the other hand, the present invention relates to a door handle assembly, for example including a pillar, for example a pillar of a vehicle door, and a safety device according to the present invention, wherein the safety device is for example attached to the pillar of the vehicle door, preferably the attached pillar is the B-pillar

[0048] The door handle assembly may include a door handle, the door handle may include a door handle structure and a sensing device, the sensing device including for example one or more sensors, the door handle assembly being configured such that detection of a user's hand (for example the user's hand touching the door handle) by the sensing device triggers opening and / or unlocking and / or locking of the door, for example electrically or in an automated manner

[0049] On the other hand, the present invention relates to a vehicle including such a door handle assembly

[0050] The present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. The drawings illustrate specific examples of the present invention, but other embodiments are possible without departing from the spirit of the claimed invention. In the different drawings, the same or similar elements may be denoted by different reference numerals BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Figure 1 A perspective view of a safety device for a door handle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention is depicted, the safety device being shown in a blocking position and including a support member

[0052] Figure 2 Depicts Figure 1 A perspective view of the safety device shown, in which the door handle structure of the door handle is shown

[0053] Figure 3 Depicts Figure 1Perspective view of the safety device as shown, wherein the blocking element of the safety device is shown in relation to the support.

[0054] Figure 4 Depicts Figure 1 An enlarged view of the support of the safety device.

[0055] Figure 5 Depicts in more detail Figure 1 The blocking element of the safety device.

[0056] Figure 6 Depicts in more detail Figure 1 The fixing rod of the support of the safety device.

[0057] Figure 7 Depicts the safety device without the blocking element Figure 1 Top view of the safety device.

[0058] Figure 8 Depicts Figure 1 The blocking element of the safety device in the blocking position, the fixed plate of the support, and the movable plate of the door handle structure.

[0059] Figure 9 Depicts Figure 8 The element, representing the blocking element in the emergency position.

[0060] Figure 10 Depicts an example of a door handle assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, in particular Figure 1 The attachment of the safety device to the pillar of the door.

[0061] Figure 11 Depicts Figure 1 The perspective view of the safety device, shown in the emergency position.

[0062] Figure 12 Depicts Figure 1 The rear view of the door handle assembly.

[0063] Figure 13 Depicts Figure 12 The perspective view of the housing of the handle of the door handle assembly.

[0064] Figure 14 Depicts Figure 12 The perspective view of the activation rod of the door handle assembly.

[0065] Figure 15 Depicts a view of the door handle assembly including a rod or bar and an actuator.

[0066] Figure 16 Depicts the Figure 12 Rear view of the door handle assembly in the emergency position. Detailed implementation manners

[0067] Reference Figures 1 to 11 In particular, reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 which show, for example, a safety device 1 for a door handle assembly 100, the door handle assembly, a door 400 and a vehicle 3 including the door handle assembly. In Figure 1 and Figure 2 a safety device 1 for a door handle assembly 100 is depicted. The safety device 1 includes a support 10, a door handle structure 11 of a door handle 110, and a blocking element 12. The safety device may include an activation element 13.

[0068] The support 10 is configured, for example, to be fixed to a pillar 200 of the door 400. The door 400 may include a door panel 30.

[0069] The door handle structure 11 is configured to move relative to the support 10 between a rest handle position and an active handle position that allows the door to be opened. The blocking element 12 is configured to move relative to the support 10 between a blocking position and an emergency position. In the blocking position, the blocking element 12 prevents the door handle structure 11 from moving relative to the support 10. In the emergency position, the blocking element 12 allows the door handle structure 11 to move relative to the support 10 from the rest handle position to the active handle position, for example when the door handle structure 11 is subjected to a pulling or pushing strain.

[0070] The blocking element 12 includes first guiding means 121a, 121b which are configured to cooperate with complementary first guiding means 101 of the support 10 to allow translational movement of the blocking element (12) relative to the support (10) along a translation axis (T).

[0071] The door handle assembly 100 may include a door handle 110 which includes the door handle structure 11.

[0072] The vehicle may include one or more such door handle assemblies. The vehicle may include one or more doors. One or each of the doors may include such a door handle assembly.

[0073] Although Figure 1 shows the safety device, in particular the blocking element 12, in the blocking position, however Figure 11 shows the safety device, in particular the blocking element, in the emergency position. Such positions will be described in connection with the support 10, the door handle structure 11 of the door handle 110, the blocking element 12 and, for example, the activation element 13.

[0074] When the door handle assembly 100, such as the door handle, is in normal operation, the safety device, in particular the blocking element 12, is in the blocking position. When normal operation is not available, for example in a degraded state, such as in a damaged state, the safety device, in particular the blocking element 12, can be in the blocking position and can be adapted to switch from the blocking position to the emergency position.

[0075] The safety device 1 can be configured to be electrically activated such that the blocking element 12 is controlled between the blocking position and the emergency position.

[0076] The door handle assembly 100, such as the door handle 110, can be an automatic handle or a handle assembly, such as of the e-handle type, such as of the electronic handle type, which is designed to electronically unlock the door in normal operation.

[0077] The door handle assembly 100 can include an automatic door latch, for example controlled by an electrical device in normal operation. The door handle assembly 100 can be configured to lock or release the door panel 30 in an automatic manner.

[0078] The door handle 110 can include a sensing device that includes, for example, one or more sensors. The door handle assembly 1 can be configured such that detection of a user's hand (e.g., the user's hand touching the door handle) by the sensing device triggers the opening and / or unlocking and / or locking of the door.

[0079] In normal operation, for example in normal mode, the door handle can be in the blocking position, for example where the blocking element 12 prevents the door handle structure 11 from moving relative to the support 10. In such a position, the door handle 110 is a fixed element and does not transmit any mechanical pulses to the lock. In this case, the electric latch of the door is activated by one or some sensors in the handle, which are triggered by the user touching the handle itself. The possibility of mechanical pulses is only for emergency situations, for example in a degraded state, and the emergency position can thus correspond to an emergency mode.

[0080] The door handle 110 can include a housing that includes, for example, an upper housing 110a and a lower housing 110b, for example an internal structure 111 that surrounds the door handle structure 11 between the upper housing 110a and the lower housing 110b, as Figure 2 shown. The internal structure 111 can include a plate 112 fixed to a moving plate 113, for example a curved plate. The curved plate 112 can be designed to reinforce the door handle 110. The moving plate 113 can be fixed to the plate 112.

[0081] The moving plate 113 can be configured to allow the door handle structure 11 to move relative to the support 10 between a rest handle position and an active handle position, thereby allowing the opening of the vehicle door 400, for example mechanically, for example by a user (e.g., with the user's hand) pushing and / or pulling on the door handle structure 11 and / or the door handle 110.

[0082] The support 10 can be configured to be fixed to the pillar 200 of the vehicle door 30 by means of a fixing member 104. Without limitation, the pillar 200 of the vehicle door is a B-pillar and / or a C-pillar. When fixed to the pillar 200 of the vehicle door 30, the support 10 cannot move relative to the pillar 200.

[0083] The activation element 13 can include or consist of an activation lever 13, which is configured to rotate about an activation axis A, for example about an activation pin 13a defining the activation axis A. The activation pin 13a can be fixed to the support 10. The activation element 13 can move between a non-activated position and an activated position.

[0084] The blocking element 12 is configured to move relative to the support 10 between a blocking position and an emergency position. In the blocking position, the blocking element 12 prevents the door handle structure 11 from moving relative to the support 10. In the emergency position, the blocking element 12 allows the door handle structure 11 to move relative to the support 10 from the rest handle position to the active handle position, for example when the door handle structure (11) is subjected to a constraint (tensile stress or compressive stress) by a user (e.g., the user's hand).

[0085] The blocking element 12 can include a blocking pin 12a, which is configured to cooperate with an opening 13b (e.g., an oval opening 13b) of the activation element 13 such that the blocking element 12 cooperates with the activation element 13. The blocking pin 12a can extend at least partially within the opening 13b.

[0086] Furthermore, the blocking element 12 includes first guiding means 121a, 121b, which are configured to cooperate with complementary guiding means 101 of the support 10 to allow the blocking element 12 to translate relative to the support 10 along a translation axis T.

[0087] In Figure 3 the blocking element 12 is shown cooperating with the support 10. The guiding means 121a, 121b of the blocking element 12 can include or be formed by two guiding members 121a, 121b, for example two lateral profiles 121a, 121b. The two lateral profiles 121a, 121b can extend from the same face of the blocking element 12, for example project from the same face of the blocking element 12. The two lateral profiles 121a, 121b can be parallel to each other.

[0088] The two lateral profiles 121a, 121b can be configured to cooperate with the fastening lugs 101a, 101b of the support 10. The fastening lugs 101a, 101b can have a hook shape, such as an "L" shape ( Figure 4 ), such that the lateral profiles 121a, 121b of the locking element are allowed to be held against the support 10. The cooperation of the lateral profiles 121a, 121b with the fastening lugs 101a, 101b allows the translational movement of the blocking element 12 relative to the support 10 along the translation axis T to be blocked. At least one of the fastening lugs 101a, 101b, such as each of the fastening lugs 101a, 101b, can extend from the same face of the support 10, such as being configured to abut the same face where the blocking element 12 is located. At least one fastening lug 101a, 101b, such as each of the fastening lugs 101a, 101b, can have a first part extending away from the same face of the support 10, and a second part extending from the distal end of the first part, such as in a direction different from the extension direction of the first part, such as according to a direction parallel to the same face of the support, and the extension direction and orientation of the second part are, for example, the same for the two second parts.

[0089] Furthermore, the blocking element 12 can include an elastic means 122 that cooperates with the support 10 to hold the blocking element 12 in the blocking position when the activation element 13 is in the non-activated position. The elastic means 122 can include or form a spring, such as a helical spring. The elastic means 122 can be configured to be compressed and / or apply a resistance against compression in the compression direction, which is, for example, the same as the direction in which at least one (e.g., two) of the lateral profiles 121a, 121b extend.

[0090] As Figure 3 or Figure 5 shown, the blocking element 12 can include a frame 120 having an opening 120a laterally defined by two lateral frame portions 121f, 121g of the open frame 120. The two lateral profiles 121a, 121b extend, for example, from the two lateral frame portions 121f, 121g respectively.

[0091] The opening 120a can be defined by an upper profile 121c of the frame 120, such as a blocking pin 12a extending from the upper profile 121c. The upper profile 121c connects, for example, the two lateral profiles 121a, 121b, such as the upper ends of the lateral profiles 121a, 121b. The opening can be defined by a lower profile 121d of the frame 120. Longitudinal elements 124a, 124b, as described below, can extend from the lower profile 121d, such as extending away from the opening 120a, such as extending parallel to the two lateral profiles 121a, 121b. The upper profile can have a curved shape, such as a concave shape, at its ends, complementary to the shape (such as a circular shape) of the activation pin 13a.

[0092] Terms such as upper, lower, vertical, horizontal, top, etc. are defined, for example, relative to the position that an element is configured to have within a vehicle when in place within the vehicle when the vehicle is in a normal operating position. For example, lower means that, for example, when the vehicle is in a normal operating position and in place within the vehicle, the element is relatively closer to the ground compared to a higher element.

[0093] The protrusion 121e extends from the lower contour 121d into the open frame 120. The protrusion 121e is designed, for example, to at least partially support an elastic device 122 formed, for example, by a coil spring, and is designed to at least partially, for example, completely extend within the elastic device 122. The protrusion can be configured, for example, to position the elastic device 122 and / or maintain the position and / or orientation of the elastic device 122. The protrusion can have the shape of a cylinder cut by a plane parallel to the axis of the cylinder. This plane is, for example, orthogonal to the direction in which the lower contour 121d extends.

[0094] The support 10 can also have a protrusion 102, which is designed to hold the elastic device 122 in a compressed state. The protrusion 121e can extend from the lower contour 121d, for example, extend within the opening 120a, for example, extend vertically, for example, extend away from the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b, as described below, for example, extend parallel to the two lateral contours 121a, 121b.

[0095] The cooperation between the blocking element 12 and the activation element 13 can allow the activation element 13 to control the movement of the blocking element 12 such that when the activation element 13 moves from a non-activated position to an activated position, the blocking element 12 moves from a blocking position to an emergency position.

[0096] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The blocking element 12 in the blocking position is shown.

[0097] In Figure 2 it is shown that the support 10 can include a fixing part or fixing rod 103 attached to the support 10. The fixing rod 103 is shown in more detail in Figure 6 The fixing rod 103 is fixed to the support 10 by fixing means, which include, for example, one or more openings 103a1, 103a1', which are configured to, for example, respectively, through the connecting means of the safety device 1 (such as one or more screws) with the support 10 ( Figure 3One or more receiving openings 103a2, 103a2' as shown cooperate. The connecting device can be inserted, for example, from one or more of the openings 103a1, 103a1' of the fixed rod 103 to cooperate with the corresponding receiving openings 103a2, 103a2' of the support 10, for example, each cooperating with the corresponding receiving openings 103a2, 103a2'.

[0098] The blocking element 12 can be designed to cooperate with the support 10. More precisely, the blocking element 12 can include at least one element, such as at least one longitudinal element 124a, 124b, for example two longitudinal elements 124a, 124b, for example a first longitudinal element (124a) and a second longitudinal element (124b). The at least one element can have a trapezoidal cross-section, for example in a plane orthogonal to the extension direction of the corresponding element, for example in a direction parallel to the lateral profiles 121f, 121g. The at least one element can have a cross-section of another shape, such as a rectangular shape, for example in a plane orthogonal to the extension direction of the corresponding element, for example in a plane orthogonal to the direction parallel to the lateral profiles 121f, 121g. The longitudinal elements 124a, 124b can be arranged to cooperate with the door handle structure 11, for example, in the blocking position, for example, only in the blocking position, for example, to prevent the movement of the door handle structure 11 relative to the support 10.

[0099] As Figure 6 As depicted, the fixed rod 103 of the support 10 can include receiving means 103b1, 103b2 of the support 10, which are intended to cooperate with elements (such as the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12). The receiving means 103b1, 103b2 of the fixed rod 103 can be through-holes 103b1, 103b2. The through-holes 103b1, 103b2 preferably have a trapezoidal shape. The trapezoidal shape allows no play for the handle 110 and / or the door handle structure 11.

[0100] The through-holes 103b1, 103b2 can have a shape complementary to the shape of the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12, here a trapezoidal shape.

[0101] Alternatively, although the through-holes 103b1, 103b2 have a shape that mates with the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12, the through-holes 103b1, 103b2 can have a shape that is not complementary to the shape of the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12. For example, the through-holes 103b1, 103b2 can have a trapezoidal shape, while the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12 have a cross-section of a different shape, such as a rectangular shape, for example, in a plane orthogonal to the extension direction of the corresponding element, for example, in a plane orthogonal to the direction parallel to the lateral profiles 121f, 121g.

[0102] The longitudinal elements 124a, 124b can have a shape that tapers downwards towards their ends (e.g., towards their ends, e.g., towards their distal ends). Thus, it is possible to gradually engage the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12 in cooperation with the receiving means 103b1, 103b2 of the support 10 until the cross-section of the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b is held by the receiving means 103b1, 103b2 of the support 10, which corresponds to the blocking element 12.

[0103] The longitudinal element can extend between a proximal end and a distal end, for example, the proximal end is closer to the lower profile 121d than the distal end.

[0104] The fixing rod 103 of the support 10 can include at least two parts 103b1’, 103b2’, each part 103b1’, 103b2’ extending in a respective plane 103b1”, 103b”, for example, presenting respective receiving means 103b1, 103b2, and the planes 103b1’, 103b2’ are different from each other. In other words, the planes 103b1’, 103b2’ are not the same plane. Such parts 103b1’, 103b2’ of the fixing rod 103 can allow at least the longitudinal element 124a of the blocking element 12 to be arranged, for example, in the blocking position, for example, to cooperate with the door handle structure 11 only in the blocking position to prevent the door handle structure 11 from moving relative to the support 10, and for example, the second longitudinal element 124b of the blocking element 12 to be arranged to cooperate with the support 10 in the blocking position or the emergency position, for example, also to cooperate with the door handle structure 11 in the blocking position, as described below.

[0105] The fixed rod 103 may include two arms 103c, 103d. Portions 103b1’ and 103b2’ may extend along the fixed rod 103 between the two arms 103c, 103d. At least one of the arms (e.g., each of the arms 103c, 103d) may support the guide pins 103e, 103e’ of the fixed rod 103. The guide pins 103e, 103e’ may extend from the same side of the fixed rod 103, for example, project from the same side of the fixed rod 103. As will be described below, the guide pin 103e may be configured to cooperate with the door handle structure 11 to allow the door handle structure 11 to move relative to the support 10, for example, in the emergency position of the blocking element 12. As Figure 7 shown, the arms 103c, 103d may be mounted between the moving plate 113 and the bent plate 112.

[0106] Figure 7 depicts the Figure 1 safety device 1 without the blocking element 12 in a top view. The door handle structure 11 is shown as having a lower housing 110b fixed to the moving plate 113.

[0107] The moving plate 113 of the door handle structure 11 may include second guiding means 113a, 113b, such as one or more guiding elements 113a, 113b, such as linear guiding means or elements, such as curved linear guiding means or elements, such as slots, such as curved slots. The second guiding means 113a, 113b (such as one or more guiding elements 113a, 113b) may be configured to cooperate with complementary second guiding means (such as complementary guiding elements of the support 10) to allow rotational movement of the door handle structure 11 relative to the support 10.

[0108] The complementary second guiding means (such as complementary guiding elements) of the support 10 may include the arms 103c, 103d of the fixed rod 103 and / or the guide pins 103e, 103e’. The guide pin 103e may cooperate with the second guiding means 113a, 113b (such as the second guiding elements 113a, 113b) respectively, for example, at least partially inserted therein.

[0109] As shown, the second guiding means 113a, 113b (such as guiding elements 113a, 113b, such as linear guiding elements 113a, 113b) may have a curved shape to allow guiding of the door handle structure 11 relative to the support 10 and to cause rotational movement of the door handle structure 11 relative to the support 10 when the door handle structure 11 is pulled.

[0110] Of course, it should be understood that the door handle can only be pulled when the blocking element 12 is in the emergency position.

[0111] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9, the moving plate 113 may include a body 113c having, for example, guiding elements 113a, 113b. The moving plate 113 may include one or more portions 113f, 113f', for example two, extending from the body 113c of the moving plate 113. Each of the extending portions 113f, 113f' has receiving means 113f1, 113f2 including, for example, an opening.

[0112] The longitudinal elements 124a, 124b may be designed to cooperate with the receiving means 113f1, 113f2 of the moving plate 113 so as to prevent the door handle structure 11 from moving relative to the support 10.

[0113] Thus, the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b of the blocking element 12 may, for example, progressively engage the receiving means 113f1, 113f2 of the moving plate 113, for example after engaging the receiving means 103b1, 103b2, until the cross-section of the longitudinal elements 124a, 124b is held by the receiving means 113f1, 113f2 of the moving plate 113, which corresponds to the blocking element 12.

[0114] Reference Figures 12 to 16 , other elements related to the operation of the door handle assembly are presented.

[0115] The door handle assembly 100, for example the door handle 110, may include an actuating element 201. The actuating element 201 may extend from the housing, for example from the lower housing 110b. The actuating element 201 may be hook-shaped. The actuating element 201 may include a first portion extending from the housing (for example horizontally) and a second portion extending from the first portion (for example towards the bottom).

[0116] The door handle assembly 100, for example the door handle 110, may include an activation lever 202 for a cable 203, which is, for example, a Bowden cable. The actuating element 201 may be configured to be connected to and / or cooperate with the activation lever 202 for the cable 203. The cable 203 may be connected to and / or cooperate with the door latch so as to allow selective opening of the door latch.

[0117] The activation lever 202 may include an activation lever body. The body may be curved.

[0118] The activation lever 202 may include an elastic means 204 cooperating with the activation lever, such as a spring. The elastic means 204 may be configured to exert a thrust on the activation lever body, for example in the direction of the normal position / non-activated position of the activation lever body, as Figure 12 shown.

[0119] The activation lever 202 may include a control cam 205. The control cam 205 may be located on the body. The control cam may be configured to interact with the actuating element 201.

[0120] The door handle assembly 100, such as the door handle 110, may include a rod or bar 206. The door handle assembly 100, such as the door handle 110, may include an actuator 207. The rod or bar 206 is connected to the activation element 13 and / or the actuator 207, for example, functionally connecting the activation element 13 and the actuator 207.

[0121] If there is a power failure or any other problem with the handle, emergency actuation can be activated, for example, by pulling the handle 110. However, this is only possible, for example, when the blocking element 12 and the activation element 13 are in the emergency position. The rod / bar 206 may be provided for this purpose.

[0122] Once a failure occurs, the actuator 207 can actuate the rod 206, for example, and then the handle 110 can be actuated manually. For this purpose, the actuator 207 may also have its own power source, for example, through a supercapacitor, which supplies voltage to activate the actuator 207.

[0123] Once the handle is manually moved, the actuating element 201 moves along the control cam 205, thereby actuating the cable 203, for example, to open the door panel.

[0124] The slots 113a, 113b may be designed, for example, to define the ratio of the length of the first slot 113a in the slot to the length of the second slot 113b in the slot, so as to allow rotational movement of the door handle structure 11 relative to the support 10 and / or so as to allow movement of the actuating element 201 of the door handle assembly 100 (such as the door handle 110), for example, such that the actuating element 201 can cooperate with the activation lever 202, for example, with the control cam 205 of the activation lever 202, for example, to open the door panel 30.

[0125] Reference Figures 1 to 7 and Figure 8 and Figure 9 and Figures 12 to 16 The operation of the safety device 1 according to the present invention is further described, Figure 8 and Figure 9 and Figures 12 to 16 The configurations of the blocking element 12 in the blocking position and in the emergency position are depicted respectively.

[0126] In normal operation, the door handle structure 11 is locked by the blocking element 12. Then, the activation element 13 is in its non-activated position.

[0127] Activating element 13 allows the control of blocking element 12 by means of a clearance fit between the blocking pin 12a of blocking element 12 and the oval opening 13b of activating element 13.

[0128] In the non-actuated position of activating element 13, blocking element 12 is in its blocking position, in which the first longitudinal element 124a and the second longitudinal element 124b of blocking element 12 engage in a clearance-free and cooperative manner with the receiving devices 103b1, 103b2 of the fixed rod 103 of support 10 and also engage in a clearance-free and cooperative manner with the receiving devices 113f1, 113f2 of the moving plate 113 of the door handle structure 11. An elastic device (e.g., a helical spring) 122 is in a compressed state between the projection 121e of blocking element 12 and the projection 102 of support 10.

[0129] Thus, in the non-activated position of activating element 13 corresponding to the blocking position of blocking element 12, blocking element 12 prevents any movement of door handle structure 11 relative to support 10. Note that the blocking position of blocking element 12 corresponds to the normal operating position, especially when the vehicle has not been in an accident.

[0130] In normal operation, the opening and / or closing and / or locking and / or unlocking of the door, especially the opening and / or closing and / or locking and / or unlocking of the door latch, can be triggered automatically, e.g., in response to the user touching the handle as described above.

[0131] In the case of a vehicle accident, the rod 206 connected to the notch 13c in activating element 13 allows the control of the rotation of activating element 13 about the activation pin 13a defining the activation axis A.

[0132] The travel of activating element 13 about activation axis A can be limited by a ring 105 arranged around the fixing device 104 of support 10. More specifically, a recess 13d can be provided in activating element 13 to cooperate with ring 105 and thus stop the travel of activating element 13.

[0133] The cooperation of recess 13d with ring 105 can correspond to the activated position of activating element 13.

[0134] The clearance of blocking pin 12a in the oval opening 13b in combination with the inclination of activating element 13 causes blocking pin 12a to slide in the oval opening 13b, thereby guiding the first guiding devices 121a, 121b of blocking element 12 in the fastening lugs 101a, 101b of support 10 such that blocking element 12 translates relative to support 10 along the translation axis T to move blocking element 12 into its emergency position.

[0135] The translation of the blocking element 12 from its blocking position to its emergency position can, on the one hand, cause the first longitudinal element 124a of the blocking element 12 to disengage from the receiving devices 103b1, 103b2 of the fixed rod 103 of the support 10 and also from the receiving devices 113f1, 113f2 of the moving plate 113 of the door handle structure 11, and on the other hand, can cause the second longitudinal element 124b of the blocking element 12 to disengage from the receiving devices 113f1, 113f2 of the moving plate 113 of the door handle structure 11, while still keeping the second longitudinal element 124b engaged in the receiving devices 103b1, 103b2 of the fixed rod 103 of the support 10.

[0136] The elastic mechanism 122 (such as a helical spring) in compression in the blocking position of the blocking element 12 can relax during the tilting of the blocking element 12 towards the emergency position, thus facilitating the disengagement of the first longitudinal element 124a and the second longitudinal element 124b of the blocking element 12.

[0137] Thus, in the activation position of the activation element 13 corresponding to the emergency position of the blocking element 12, the blocking element 12 can release the movement of the door handle structure 11 relative to the support 10. Note that the emergency position of the blocking element 12 can correspond to the operating position in the case of a vehicle accident.

[0138] Then, the door handle structure 11 can move relative to the support 10. More specifically, now released from the blocking element 12, the moving plate 113 of the door handle structure 11 can rotate by sliding the second guiding devices 113a, 113b (such as guiding elements 113a, 113b) relative to the guiding pins 103e of the arms 103c, 103d of the fixed rod 103 of the support 10.

[0139] The curved shape of the second guiding devices 113a, 113b (such as guiding elements 113a, 113b) can allow the sliding movement of the moving plate 113 relative to the guiding pins 103e of the arms 103c, 103d of the fixed rod 103 of the support 10 to be converted into a rotational movement of the moving plate 113 relative to the fixed rod 103 of the support 10.

[0140] In Figure 10 the door handle assembly 100 represented by its safety device 1 is shown mounted on the B-pillar 200 of the vehicle door 400.

[0141] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described, but includes all possible embodiments and modifications within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A safety device (1) for a door handle assembly (100), the safety device (1) comprising: - a support (10) configured to be fixed to a pillar (200) of a vehicle door (400), - a door handle structure (11) configured to move relative to the support (10) between a rest handle position and an active handle position allowing the vehicle door to be opened, - a blocking element (12) configured to move relative to the support (10) between a blocking position and an emergency position, in which blocking position the blocking element (12) prevents the door handle structure (11) from moving relative to the support (10), and in which emergency position the blocking element (12) allows the door handle structure (11) to move relative to the support (10) from the rest handle position to the active handle position, for example when the door handle structure (11) is subjected to a pulling or pushing strain, wherein the blocking element (12) comprises first guiding means (121a, 121b) configured to cooperate with complementary first guiding means (101) of the support (10) to allow translational movement of the blocking element (12) relative to the support (10) along a translation axis (T).

2. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to claim 1, wherein, The blocking element (12) comprises at least one element, such as at least one longitudinal element (124a, 124b), for example a first longitudinal element (124a) and a second longitudinal element (124b), the at least one element being arranged to cooperate with the door handle structure (11) in the blocking position, for example only in the blocking position, to prevent movement of the door handle structure (11) relative to the support (10).

3. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one longitudinal element (124a, 124b) has a shape tapering downwards towards its end.

4. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The blocking element (12) comprises the first longitudinal element (124a) and the second longitudinal element (124b).

5. The safety device (1) for a door handle assembly (100) according to claim 4, wherein, The support (10) comprises at least two parts (103b1’, 103b2’), each part (103b1’, 103b2’) having a surface extending in a plane (103b1’, 103b2’) and having receiving means (103b1, 103b2) for cooperating with a respective longitudinal element, the planes (103b1’, 103b2’) being different from each other.

6. The safety device (1) for a door handle assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The safety device comprises an activation element (13) configured to activate the blocking element (12) and capable of moving between a non-activated position and an activated position, wherein the blocking element (12) is configured to cooperate with the activation element (13) such that when the activation element (13) moves from the non-activated position to the activated position, the blocking element (12) moves from the blocking position to the emergency position.

7. The safety device (1) for a door handle assembly (100) according to claim 6, wherein, The blocking element (12) comprises elastic means (122) which cooperate with the support (10) to keep the blocking element (12) in the blocking position when the activation element (13) is in the inactive position.

8. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The activation element (13) is configured to rotate about an activation axis (A), for example the activation axis (A) forms an angle of 70 to 110 degrees, for example 90 degrees, with the translation axis (T).

9. The safety device (1) for a door handle assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The door handle structure (11) comprises second guide means (113a, 113b) configured to cooperate with complementary second guide means of the support (10) to allow rotational movement of the door handle structure (11) relative to the support (10).

10. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to claim 9, wherein, The second guiding means (113a, 113b) of the door handle structure (11) comprises slots (113a, 113b), and the complementary second guiding means (103c, 103d) of the support (10) comprises guide pins (103e), each guide pin (103e) cooperating with one of the slots (113a, 113b), for example each guide pin (103e) extends at least partially within one of the slots (113a, 113b).

11. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to claim 10, wherein, The support (10) includes arms (103c, 103d), each arm (103c, 103d) supporting one of the guide pins (10e).

12. The safety device (1) for a vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein, The elongated recesses (113a, 113b) of the guide elements (113a, 113b) have a curved shape.

13. A vehicle door handle assembly (100), comprising: - a door pillar (200), and - A safety device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, Wherein, the safety device (1) is attached to the pillar (200) of the vehicle door (400).

14. The vehicle door handle assembly (100) according to the preceding claim comprises a door handle (110), the door handle comprising a door handle structure (11) and a sensing device, the sensing device comprising, for example, one or more sensors, the vehicle door handle assembly being configured to detect a user's hand through the sensing device, for example, by detecting that the user's hand touches the door handle, thereby triggering the opening and / or unlocking and / or locking of the door.

15. A vehicle (3) comprising at least one door handle assembly (100) according to claim 13 or 14.

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