Rail slider assembly for window lifter

Abstract

The invention relates to a rail slide assembly for a window lifter, comprising: an electrical connection cable (34) which can be connected to a functionalized window pane (10) of the window lifter (8) for energization and / or control; a rail slide (30) for guiding a movable movement on a guide rail (16) of the window lifter (8) and for mechanically coupling to the window pane (10); and a holding device (46) arranged on the rail slide (30) for the connection cable (34), the holding device having a holding section (50) and a pressing device (52), the pressing device being provided and configured to limit, at least in sections, a deformation or a tilt of a cable section (42) of the connection cable (34) between the rail slide (30) and the window pane (10) in a holding direction (H) oriented perpendicular to the rail slide (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a track slider assembly for a window regulator, the track slider assembly comprising: an electrical connection cable for connecting to a functional window pane of the window regulator for power supply and / or control; and a track slider for guiding movable movement on a guide rail of the window regulator and for mechanical coupling with the window pane. The invention also relates to a retaining adapter for such a track slider assembly and a door module having such a track slider assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle doors typically have a door body or door frame that serves as a support or basic structure. This door frame has an outer door panel that forms the outer skin of the door and an inner door panel that connects to the inner side of the vehicle. A cavity is constructed between the outer and inner door panels as an assembly space in which functional elements or door components (such as window regulators, door locks, airbags, or similar components) can be assembled.

[0003] The door components are traditionally guided from the inside of the door through an assembly opening on the inner door panel into the cavity or assembly space between the outer and inner door panels, and then guided to their functional position (final assembly position).

[0004] To simplify the assembly of door components within the vehicle door, it is possible to pre-assemble these components onto a plate-shaped assembly carrier, also known as a door module carrier or support plate. The assembled assembly carrier, also called a door module, can then be fitted onto the door's mounting opening. The door module or assembly carrier covers the mounting opening and typically also separates the dry and wet spaces of the door. Electronic components, particularly functional components, are housed in the dry space, while mechanical components are integrated in the wet space. Therefore, fewer components are required overall, reducing the possibility of errors and making the sealing of individual electronic components redundant. Furthermore, the door module or assembly carrier also provides moisture protection and shields the vehicle interior from dust intrusion and external noise. Additionally, this door frame provides a resonance space that improves the acoustics of the integrated speakers.

[0005] Today, movable car windows typically move between a closed and open position via an electrically operated or motorized adjustment device that functions as a window regulator. In the case of side windows, such window regulators, typically installed in the corresponding door, usually include at least one movable or adjustable track slider, which functions as an actuating element for the connection position of the window glass.

[0006] During the assembly of the car door, the window glass is mechanically coupled to the window regulator or the track slider. To do this, the track slider is moved to the upper assembly position below the glass channel (door guardrail gap) of the door frame, and the window glass is guided from above through the glass channel, at which point it is mechanically coupled (e.g., locked or clipped) to the track slider in the interior space of the door (i.e., within the assembly space).

[0007] In addition to traditional window glass, increasingly more car doors are incorporating so-called functional or electrified window glass. Here and below, "functional window glass" is specifically understood as electrically switchable or controllable (motor vehicle) vitrified glass, that is, window glass with electrically switchable or controllable functional layers (especially electrotransparent, heat-generating, or light-emitting layers). In other words, window glass is equipped with functional layers, especially optical and / or thermal, whose functions can be influenced, altered, switched, or controlled by electrical control signals. Furthermore, "functional window glass" is also understood as color-changing vitrified glass of the type installed with electroactive or electrochromic glass (smart glass).

[0008] To control such functional windows, these windows must be coupled to an energy source and / or a control device (controller) as an electronic component for transmitting control signals. Especially in the case of movable or adjustable windows in motor vehicles, such as side windows or sliding sunroofs, the signal transmission connection between the window and the electronics is associated with structural and assembly-related costs. Furthermore, guiding electrical wiring or cables with such wiring to the window for current and / or signal transmission is typically associated with complex auxiliary devices and significant structural space requirements.

[0009] Electrical contacts for transmitting current / data to window glass are typically only feasible at a high cost. This is because the contact points of the door module electronics are located within the enclosed interior space of the door (assembly space). After the door module and window glass are installed in the door frame, the electrical transfer or contact points between the door module and the functionalized window glass are no longer visible, making contact difficult during window glass installation. This results in, in mass production applications, typically only functionalized windows with permanently installed glass can be achieved, i.e., without window regulators or without door modules.

[0010] Here, for example, as known from WO 2022 / 018093 A1 or DE 10 2020 205 551 A1, a connecting cable having a connecting plug (plug connector) for contacting the glass follows or remains on the track slider of the window lifter.

[0011] For functionalized vehicle windows with simple window regulators (without door modules), contact with the window glass interface can be achieved, for example, through the mounting opening for the window regulator. However, in variants with door modules, holes are required in the door frame, the door module, or the assembly carrier, through which a plug is inserted into the window glass interface. This eliminates the need for redundant cable length between the plug and the track slider.

[0012] Another feasible solution for achieving contact between the functionalized window glass and the assembly carrier without holes is to make contact during the installation of the door module into the door frame. Here, the contact is manually completed while the door module or assembly carrier is in an inclined position relative to the door frame. However, this contact requires redundant length of the connecting cable between the window interface and the cable guide on the track slider, so that the additional distance caused by the module's inclined position can be bridged by the connecting cable during contact.

[0013] Here, in any assembled state and during operation, this redundant length must be safely guided. Especially in the contact state, the redundant length of the connecting cable exists in an enclosed, wet space, where there is a risk of the redundant length warping or deforming, particularly in the vehicle's lateral (Y) direction (e.g., in the case of twisting during contact). Such warping in the Y direction may result in damage or breakage of the connecting cable during window movement. Furthermore, there is a risk of generating unwanted noise during door opening and closing (door impact). Therefore, it is necessary to reliably and safely guide the connecting cable (especially the redundant length) within the wet space, even after glass contact is complete. For this purpose, it is necessary to coordinate the positioning of the plug on the window glass with the design of the cable guide on the track slider. Summary of the Invention

[0014] The objective of this invention is to describe a particularly suitable track slider assembly for window lifters. In particular, it aims to reliably and safely limit the redundant length of the connecting cables during window glass movement and upon door impact. Furthermore, the objective of this invention is to describe a particularly suitable retaining adapter for the track slider assembly, and a particularly suitable door module having such a track slider assembly.

[0015] According to the present invention, this task is solved, in terms of the track slider assembly, by the track slider assembly for a window regulator, and in terms of the retaining adapter, by the retaining adapter for the track slider assembly of the present invention, and in terms of the door module, by the door module for a vehicle door having a window glass.

[0016] The track slider assembly according to the present invention has:

[0017] - An electrical connection cable, which can be connected to the functional window glass of the window regulator for power supply and / or control.

[0018] - A track slider, which guides movable movement on the guide rail of the window lifter and is mechanically coupled to the window glass.

[0019] - A retaining device for the connecting cable arranged on the track slider, the retaining device having a retaining section and a clamp, the clamp being configured and set to: at least sectionally limit the deformation or warping of the cable section of the connecting cable between the track slider and the window glass along a retaining direction perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider.

[0020] The retaining adapter according to the invention can engage with the track slider in a form-locking and / or force-locking manner. The retaining adapter has a retaining device for connecting cables, the retaining device having a retaining section and a clamp, the clamp being configured and set to: at least partially restrict the deformation or warping of the cable section of the connecting cable between the track slider and the window glass along a retaining direction perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider.

[0021] The door module according to the invention comprises: an assembly carrier on which at least one guide rail is arranged; and a track slider assembly according to the invention.

[0022] The advantages and design schemes listed for the track slider assembly can also be applied to retaining adapters and / or gate modules, and vice versa.

[0023] The conjunction “and / or” is understood here and in the following text as meaning that the features linked by this conjunction can both constitute together or serve as alternatives to each other.

[0024] This invention relates to a track slider assembly for a window regulator, particularly for window regulators of motor vehicles, such as for side doors of motor vehicles. The window regulator is configured to adjust functional, particularly electrically switchable or controllable, window glass.

[0025] The track slider assembly has a track slider as a drive element for (functionalized) window glass to be adjusted by means of a window regulator. The track slider is configured to guide movable movement, particularly sliding movement, on the guide rails of the window regulator, and to mechanically couple with the window glass. For example, the track slider has a track enclosure as a guide section that, in the assembled state, at least partially and shape-lockingly surrounds the guide rail, thereby enabling stable guidance of the track slider along the guide rail. The track slider also has an engagement profile for mechanically holding or securing the window glass so that it can be moved in the engaged state.

[0026] The track slider assembly also includes an electrical connection cable that connects to a functionalized window slab for energizing and / or controlling the slab. For this purpose, the window slab has a corresponding window interface, and the connection cable has a cable interface. These interfaces are implemented, for example, for plug-in connections; the window interface is implemented as a socket, and the cable interface is implemented as a corresponding plug or plug connector.

[0027] The connecting cable is particularly implemented as a wire harness or cable bundle having one or more core wires or electrical lines. For example, the connecting cable has a signal line for transmitting control signals and at least one line for energizing the window glass. Especially in the case of multi-phase power supply, multiple lines are conceivable, such as one line per phase. The connecting cable is guided on the track slider and connected to the window glass in a contact state. The connecting cable contacts an interface on the door module or assembly carrier, for example, wherein the cable section between the assembly carrier and the track slider is guided to the track slider, for example, via a corrugated pipe or cable chain.

[0028] The connecting cable has an axial length, that is, a length extending along the longitudinal direction or longitudinal axis of the cable, which defines the length of the connecting cable from one end of the connecting cable to the other end of the connecting cable. The connecting cable here has a (axial) redundant length for contact with the window glass. Herein and below, "redundant length of the connecting cable" is specifically understood to mean a section of the connecting cable whose axial length exceeds the dimensions required for a stress-free connection between the track slider and the window interface to be contacted, wherein this additional length forms a targeted functional reserve, which is achieved, for example, by a defined loop, arc, or reserved construction, and is taken into consideration in the design to enable manual contact, especially when the track slider assembly is installed in the door.

[0029] The track slider assembly has a retaining device for connecting cables arranged on the track slider. The retaining device guides the connecting cable at least segmentally on the track slider and, according to the invention, is configured to: at least segmentally limit deformation or warping of the (cable) segment of the connecting cable extending between the track slider and the window glass along a retaining direction perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider. The retaining device has a retaining section and a clamping device.

[0030] The connecting cable, in particular, has a redundant length for contact in the (axial) section between the track slider and the window glass. For example, this (connecting cable) section has a maximum free cable length of approximately 150 mm between the plug (cable interface) and the final fastening point on the track slider. Therefore, a retaining device is provided and configured to prevent deformation or warping of the redundant length of the connecting cable in the axial direction between the track slider and the window glass. Thus, the retaining device's clamping mechanism prevents the redundant length of the connecting cable (e.g., in the event of plug twisting upon contact) from "warping" or potentially deforming or shifting uncontrollably, thereby largely avoiding collisions with the (door) frame, door module, or the general periphery of the vehicle door. This results in a particularly suitable track slider assembly.

[0031] Therefore, especially in applications with door modules, it enables the contact of the plug on the window side of the connecting cable without the need for additional holes in the assembly carrier or vehicle frame.

[0032] The retaining device is preferably designed to guide the connecting cable at least partially or partially throughout the entire (door module) assembly and contact process. However, the retaining device guides and limits deformation or warping of the redundant length of the connecting cable at least in the final (assembly) position (i.e., with the track slider assembly installed inside the door).

[0033] In the following description, the indication of spatial orientation, especially in the coordinate system of the motor vehicle (vehicle coordinate system), is illustrated by reference to an exemplary installation of the window regulator in the side door of the motor vehicle. The horizontal axis (X-axis, X direction) is oriented along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (driving direction), the vertical axis (Y-axis, Y direction) is oriented along the lateral direction of the vehicle, and the vertical axis (Z-axis, Z direction) is oriented along the height of the vehicle.

[0034] The track slider has a longitudinal direction that is substantially parallel to the vehicle height direction (Z) and a transverse direction that is substantially parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction (X).

[0035] The retaining direction of the retaining device (along which cable movement is restricted) is oriented substantially transversely to the axial length direction of the connecting cable. Therefore, the connecting cable is guided substantially loosely in the axial direction within the retaining device. However, the connecting cable is preferably retained or secured in sections of the retaining device, for example via retaining elements implemented as cable ties, clips, or schikane mechanisms.

[0036] The holding direction is perpendicular to the track slider, that is, perpendicular to both the longitudinal and lateral directions of the track slider. Preferably, the holding section is arranged, or can be arranged, parallel to the track slider, such that the holding direction is perpendicular to the holding section. The holding direction is preferably substantially parallel to the thickness direction of the track slider, that is, parallel to the lateral (Y) direction of the vehicle.

[0037] The retaining direction can be oriented, for example, towards the door frame, i.e., towards the outside of the vehicle (+Y), and / or towards the door module (-Y), i.e., towards the inside of the vehicle. Therefore, the retaining direction can only extend in one Y direction (+ or -). However, preferably, the retaining direction is oriented in both the +Y and -Y directions. This ensures that the redundant length of the retaining device is limited by the retaining device in at least one Y direction, thereby reliably preventing damage or breakage of the connecting cables during window movement. Furthermore, it reduces or completely eliminates the risk of unwanted noise during door opening and closing (door impact).

[0038] In an advantageous embodiment, the clamp overlaps the connecting cable in the retaining direction. Therefore, the movement of the connecting cable is restricted in both the +Y and -Y directions due to the form-locking mechanism between the clamp and the retaining section.

[0039] In a suitable design, the clamp has at least one bridge-type (and splice-type, beam-type, or roof-type) retaining bow, which engages with a retaining section at at least one end of the bow, wherein the connecting cable is guided through the free space formed between the retaining bow and the retaining section. Thus, the retaining bow and retaining section achieve closed guidance of the connecting cable in the (radial) lateral direction of the cable.

[0040] In one conceivable embodiment, the clamp has retaining bow-shaped members that engage with retaining sections at the ends of the two bow-shaped members, thereby forming a surrounding, closed, generally window-like free space through which the connecting cable is threaded.

[0041] In an alternative design, the clamp has at least two retaining bows, each engaging the retaining section only at one end. This creates two open (i.e., not fully closed) free spaces between the retaining bows and the retaining section for guiding the connecting cable, allowing the cable to be positioned at the open ends of the bows, rather than passing under them, as if placed in a labyrinthine retaining mechanism. For example, generally L-shaped retaining bows are arranged offset from each other in the retaining section, for instance, in the transverse (X) direction of the track slider, to protect the entire range of motion of the connecting cable from movement in the retaining direction (±Y). The retaining bows can also be arranged parallel to each other or rotated relative to each other in the retaining section.

[0042] In one conceivable improvement, the retaining bow has an arcuate orientation along the longitudinal (Z) and / or transverse (X) direction of the track slider. Therefore, the orientation of the retaining bow between its ends is curved or arcuate. Specifically, the ends of the retaining bow on the retaining section are staggered relative to each other along the longitudinal (Z) and / or transverse (X) direction of the track slider, thereby enabling the retaining bow to also restrict cable movement in the ±X and / or ±Z directions due to form locking.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the retaining device has a guide chute in which the connecting cable is guided. The guide chute is formed by a retaining section and a clamping device, particularly by the free space arranged between the retaining bow and the retaining section. The guide chute enables targeted orientation guidance of the connecting cable within a predetermined guide area defined by the free space, wherein an effective mechanical boundary is achieved by the edges of the guide chute (retaining bow, bow end, retaining section), which reliably and simply by design limits or completely prevents the redundant length of the connecting cable from deforming or warping in the retaining direction (particularly in the ±Y direction), whether during (door module) assembly and glass contact, or during operation of the window lifter in the installed state.

[0044] The retaining device, particularly the guide groove, can be integrally implemented with the track slider. In other words, the retaining device is formed, for example, integrally, one-piece, or monolithically on the track slider body. However, an additional or further aspect of the invention provides a retaining adapter with a retaining device for the track slider assembly, which is implemented separately from the track slider. Thus, the retaining adapter is a component manufactured independently of the track slider, for example, an injection-molded part, which is only arranged on the track slider during the assembly of the track slider assembly. The retaining adapter here can engage with the track slider in a form-locking and / or force-locking manner.

[0045] The term "shape-locking" or "shape-locking connection" between at least two interconnected parts refers in particular, to the holding of the two interconnected parts together in at least one direction by direct interlocking of the contours of the parts themselves or by indirect interlocking via additional connectors. Thus, the "prevention" of mutual movement in that direction is caused by the shape.

[0046] The term "force-locked" or "force-locked connection" between at least two interconnected parts refers in particular, here and below, to a connection in which the interconnected parts are prevented from sliding against each other due to friction acting between them. If the "connecting force" that causes this friction (which means the force that presses the parts together, such as a tightening force or gravity itself) is absent, then the force-locked connection cannot be maintained and will therefore become loose.

[0047] In one possible construction, the retaining adapter and / or track slider have shaped engagement profiles for establishing a locking or snap-fit ​​connection. For example, the retaining adapter has multiple engagement profiles corresponding to the engagement profiles on the slider side for establishing a locking or snap-fit ​​connection.

[0048] The retaining adapter according to the invention is provided for the aforementioned track slider assembly and is adapted and configured for use therein. The retaining adapter is capable of form-locking and / or force-locking engagement with the track slider and has a retaining device for the connecting cable of the track slider assembly. Therefore, the retaining device of the retaining adapter in the assembled state corresponds to the retaining device of the track slider assembly. The retaining device of the retaining adapter has a retaining section and a clamp. The clamp is provided and configured to at least sectionally limit the deformation or warping of the section of the connecting cable extending between the track slider and the window glass along a retaining direction perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider.

[0049] The door module according to the invention is configured for use in vehicle doors, particularly for side doors of motor vehicles, and is suitable for and configured for use in this context. The door has a functional window glass that can be adjusted by means of a window regulator pre-assembled on the door module.

[0050] The door module has an assembly carrier (functional carrier, support plate). Herein and below, "assembly carrier" is particularly understood as a surface-type, essentially plate-type component on which door components or functional elements (e.g., window regulators or glass guides) can be (pre-)assembled. The assembly carrier is made of metal, for example, particularly steel or aluminum alloy. Preferably, the assembly carrier is at least sectionally made of composite or plastic material. For example, this means that one or more parts of the assembly carrier are made of plastic material. Preferably, the vast majority of the assembly carrier (i.e., more than 40% or 50% of the assembly carrier) is formed of plastic material. In the assembled state, the assembly carrier particularly provides the separation of the wet and dry spaces of the door.

[0051] At least one guide rail is arranged on the assembly carrier. The guide rail is pre-assembled or integrated into the assembly carrier, for example, integrally formed onto it. The door module also has the aforementioned track slider assembly, wherein the track slider of the track slider assembly is movably guided on the guide rail, and wherein the connecting cable is guided in the retaining device in such a way that, when the connecting cable is in contact with the window glass, the movement of the connecting cable in a direction perpendicular to the orientation of the assembly carrier (±Y) is restricted. This achieves a particularly suitable door module.

[0052] By using the track slider assembly according to the invention, plug contact can be achieved without additional holes in the assembly carrier or door frame. This results in cost reduction, structural space saving, and additional design freedom in the design of the door module. Furthermore, this allows the door module to be assembled onto the door frame not only by lateral screwing but also by rotation about a horizontal axis at the lower end of the assembly carrier. Attached Figure Description

[0053] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0054] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrates a car door with a door module and functional window glass.

[0055] Figure 2 The door module and window glass are shown in partial front view.

[0056] Figure 3 The track slider assembly is shown in a front view.

[0057] Figure 4 The track slider assembly is shown in perspective.

[0058] Figure 5 The track slider assembly is shown in a front view, featuring cable sections at different cable positions.

[0059] Figure 6 The retaining adapter of the track slider assembly is shown in a front view.

[0060] Figure 7 A perspective view shows a retaining adapter with a connecting cable.

[0061] Figure 8 The retaining adapter is shown in perspective.

[0062] Figure 9 The retaining adapter is shown in a top-down view from a top-side perspective.

[0063] Figure 10 The retaining adapter is shown in a top view from the bottom side.

[0064] Figures 11a-11c The track slider assembly is shown in successive perspective views under different cable movement conditions during module assembly.

[0065] Figures 12a-12c The retaining adapter is shown in successive perspective views under different cable movement conditions during module assembly.

[0066] Figures 13a-13c The door module is shown in successive perspective views in detail under different cable movement conditions during module assembly.

[0067] Figure 14 The perspective view shows the door module assembly performed by a side-sliding method, and

[0068] Figure 15 The perspective view shows the door module assembly performed by horizontal rotation.

[0069] All corresponding parts and dimensions in all drawings are always labeled with the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0070] Figure 1 A simplified schematic diagram shows a vehicle door 2 with a door module 4. Here, the vehicle door 2 is specifically a side door of a motor vehicle. The door module 4 has an assembly carrier 6, on which an electric window regulator 8 is (pre-)assembled as an adjustment device for the functional (vehicle) window glass 10.

[0071] The window lifter 8 has a servo motor (window lifter motor) 12, which acts on the window glass 10 via a servo mechanism (window lifter mechanism) 14. The servo mechanism 14 has a guide rail 16 and a track slider assembly 18 coupled to the window glass 10.

[0072] exist Figure 1 In the illustrative embodiment, the window lifter 8 is designed as a single-cable guided window lifter. In addition to the guide rail 16, the servo mechanism 14 also has a cable traction element 20.

[0073] The regulating motor 12 of the window lifter 8 drives the cable drum 24 of the servo mechanism 14 via a transmission device 22. The transmission device 22 is specifically designed as a worm gear drive or a spur gear drive. The cable of the cable traction member 20 is arranged on the cable drum 24, and the cable is wound up and unwound when the cable drum 24 is rotated by the transmission device 22.

[0074] The guide rail 16 has an upper cable reversing roller or an upper cable roller 26 and a lower cable roller 28 fastened to it, which are arranged on opposite (track) end sides or at the end of the track. The cable of the cable traction member 20 is guided around the cable rollers 26 and 28 parallel to the guide rail 16.

[0075] When the servo motor 12 is operated, the window glass 10 will move along its (window glass) positioning P. Here, the window glass 10 can reversibly move between a closed position S, representing its highest possible position, and an open position O, representing its lowest possible position. Figure 1 In the diagram, the window glass 10 is represented by dashed lines at positions S and O. Solid lines indicate that the window glass 10 is in the half-open, intermediate position.

[0076] The following provides an explanation of spatial orientation, particularly regarding door 2, which is designed as a side door in the vehicle coordinate system (vehicle coordinate system). Here, the transverse axis (X-axis, X direction) is oriented along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (driving direction), the longitudinal axis (Y-axis, Y direction) is oriented along the lateral direction of the vehicle, and the application axis (Z-axis, direction) is oriented along the height (direction) of the vehicle.

[0077] Here, the assembly carrier 6 is basically arranged in the XZ plane, wherein in the assembled state, the assembly carrier 6 serves, for example, as a dry and wet space separation for the door 2. The longitudinal direction of the guide rail 16 is arranged basically along the vehicle height Z, wherein the transverse direction of the guide rail 16 extends along the vehicle longitudinal direction X, and the height direction of the guide rail 16 is oriented approximately parallel to the vehicle transverse direction Y.

[0078] The track slider assembly 18 has a track slider 30, which serves as a drive for the (functionalized) window glass 10 to be adjusted by means of the window lifter 8. The track slider 30 is designed to be movable, particularly slidable, on the guide rail 16 and mechanically coupled to the window glass 10.

[0079] The track slider 30 has a track enclosure (not shown in detail) as a guide section, which, in the assembled state, at least partially and form-locks around the guide rail 16, thereby achieving stable guidance of the track slider 30 along the guide rail 16. The track slider 30 also has an engagement profile for mechanically retaining or securing the window glass 10, so as to move the window glass in the engaged state. In particular, the track slider 30 has a window glass retainer 32 for form-locking and / or force-locking the window glass 10.

[0080] exist Figure 2 In the embodiments, the window lifter 8 is designed as a double-cable-guided window lifter, wherein the window glass retainer 32 is specifically configured to engage with the window glass opening 33 of the window glass 10. Figure 13a ) Locking or clamping. Alternatively, the window glass retainer 32 can also be designed to clamp and fix to the lower edge of the window glass.

[0081] The track slider assembly 30 also has an electrical connection cable 34 that can be connected to the functionalized window glass 10 for power supply and / or control. For this purpose, the window glass 10 has a corresponding window interface 36, and the connection cable 34 has a cable interface 38. Interfaces 36 and 38 are designed, for example, for plug connections; specifically, the window interface 36 is designed as a socket, while the cable interface 38 relates to a corresponding plug or plug connector.

[0082] The connecting cable 34 is guided and held, at least in sections, on the track slider 30 and is connected to the window glass 10 in a contact state. The connecting cable 34 contacts, for example, the carrier interface 40 of the assembly carrier 6, wherein the cable section between the assembly carrier 6 and the track slider 30 is guided to the track slider 30, for example, in a guide element 31. The guide element 31 may be designed, for example, as a cable chain, wherein... Figure 2 In particular, the guide element 31 is shown as an alternative embodiment of the bellows.

[0083] The section of connecting cable 34 extending between the track slider 30 and the window glass 10 or window interface 36 is also referred to as cable section 42. Figure 2 In one embodiment, the window interface 36 is arranged, for example, on the window glass adapter 44.

[0084] The connecting cable 34 or cable segment 42 has an axial redundant length that contacts the window glass 10. The connecting cable 34 or cable segment 42 may have one or more wiring harnesses (see example...). Figure 5 For example, it can be used for different phases.

[0085] The track slider assembly 18 has a retaining device 46 disposed on the track slider 30 for connecting the cable 34 or the cable segment 42. The retaining device 46 guides the connecting cable 34 at least in sections on the track slider 30, and the retaining device is configured and established to at least in sections limit the deformation or warping of the cable segment 42 along a retaining direction H perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider 30.

[0086] The track slider 30 has a longitudinal direction L oriented substantially parallel to the vehicle's height direction Z and a transverse direction Q oriented substantially parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal direction X. The direction H is kept perpendicular to the track slider 30, that is, perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction Q. In other words, the direction H is kept substantially parallel to the vehicle's transverse direction Y.

[0087] Keeping device 46 will be aided by Figures 3 to 10 To elaborate further.

[0088] In the embodiment shown, the retaining device 46 is specifically configured as a retaining adapter 48 designed separately from the track slider 30. However, in embodiments not shown, the retaining device 46 may be designed as an integral part of the track slider 30.

[0089] exist Figures 7 to 10 Each of the shown retaining adapters 48 has a retaining section 50 oriented parallel to the track slider 30 and a clamp 52 formed thereon. For example, a retaining element 53 is provided on the retaining section 50 for segmented fastening of the cable 34 or cable section 42. The retaining element 53 is designed, for example, as a cable tie, (cable) clip, or labyrinth-type limiting mechanism.

[0090] The retaining section 50 is formed with an engagement profile 54, which is used to establish a locking or clamping connection with the corresponding engagement profile or mating profile of the track slider 30, thereby fastening the retaining adapter 48 to the track slider 30 in a form and / or force locking manner.

[0091] The retaining section 50 also has a coupling region 56, where the end of the guide rail element 31 on the track slider side is coupled or can be coupled. Therefore, as the track slider moves along the guide rail 16, the guide rail element 31—and thus the connecting cable 34 guided therein—is also guided. The connecting cable 34 exits from this end of the guide rail element 31 and, by means of the retaining device 46, is reversed from a direction substantially oriented in the Z direction to the X direction, and guided towards the window interface 36 by means of the clamp 52.

[0092] exist Figures 3 to 5 On the front side of the track slider 30 or on the retaining section 50 oriented parallel to it, the connecting cable 34 is guided substantially loosely and its movement is restricted only by the clamp 52.

[0093] Here, Figure 5 Three different cable positions A, B, and C are shown for the connecting cable 34 or cable segment 42 during the assembly of the door module (where the door module 4 is installed in the door 2).

[0094] Such as especially Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the coupling region 56 is arranged on the back side of the retaining section 50 and has a vertical offset perpendicular to the retaining section 50. Therefore, the connecting cable 34 emerges from the guide element 31 on the back side of the track slider 30 and is guided towards the front side of the clamp 52 via the wall-type or tab-type guide profile 57 in the corner region of the retaining portion 50 (see...). Figure 7 ).

[0095] The clamp 52 bridging the connecting cable 34 or cable segment 42 in the holding direction H. Therefore, due to the form-locking, the movement of the cable segment 42 is restricted in the +H and -H directions between the clamp 52 and the holding segment 20. In the inserted state, the holding direction H is oriented substantially parallel to the Y direction, thus achieving restriction of cable segment movement in the ±Y directions in the inserted state.

[0096] The clamp 52 has a bridge-type, i.e., tab-type, beam-type, or roof-type retaining bow-shaped member 58, which is connected to the retaining section 50 at both ends 60 of the retaining bow-shaped member. In particular, the clamp 52 is integrally formed on the retaining section 50, i.e., piece by piece or single piece.

[0097] A window-like free space 62 is formed between the clamping member 52 and the retaining section 50, through which the cable section 42 passes. Thus, by means of the retaining bow member 58 and the retaining section 50, a closed guidance is achieved for the connecting cable 34 in terms of the (radial) transverse direction of the cable.

[0098] In an alternative embodiment not shown, the clamp 52 has at least two retaining bow-shaped members 58, each engaging with the retaining section 50 at only one bow-shaped end 60. Therefore, the connecting cable 34 does not need to pass underneath the retaining bow-shaped members 58, but can be inserted through the open bow-shaped ends as in a labyrinthine retaining mechanism. For example, the generally L-shaped retaining bow-shaped members 58 are arranged offset from each other in the transverse direction (X) of the track slider on the retaining section 50 to protect the entire movement space of the connecting cable 34 from movement in the retaining direction H. Here, the retaining bow-shaped members 58 can be arranged in a mutually (anti)parallel orientation or twisted relative to each other on the retaining section 50.

[0099] In this embodiment, the retaining bow-shaped member 58 has a curved, generally C-shaped profile. Here, the retaining bow-shaped member 58 extends both along the longitudinal direction L of the track slider and along the transverse direction Q of the track slider, wherein the ends 60 of the bow-shaped member are staggered from each other in the longitudinal direction L and transverse direction Q of the track slider on the retaining section 50. Here, the free space 62 forms a guide groove for the cable section 42 placed therein, and is hereinafter also referred to as the guide groove.

[0100] Therefore, the guide chute 62 also restricts cable movement in the direction perpendicular to the holding direction H via the bow-shaped end 60. In particular, this also restricts cable movement in the ±X and / or ±Z directions due to shape locking. Thus, the guide chute 62 ensures reliable guidance of excessively long cable sections 42 during door module assembly, window glass contact, and final installation. The guide chute 62 particularly prevents the cable section 42 from warping or deforming in the ±Y direction.

[0101] Since the cable segment 42 is open or loosely guided from the coupling profile 56 to the clamp 52, the cable can move virtually freely in the guide spool 62, which simplifies the contact of the interfaces 38, 40 during the insertion of the door module 4.

[0102] Figure 5 , Figures 11a to 11c , Figures 12a to 12c as well as Figures 13a to 13c This illustrates the cable movement or cable positions A, B, and C of cable segment 42 within guide groove 62 during the assembly of the door module into door 2. Figures 11a to 11c The track slider assembly 18 is shown. Figures 12a to 12c The retainer adapter 48 is shown, while Figures 13a to 13c The door module 4 and window glass 10 are shown in sections.

[0103] Figure 14 and Figure 15 The diagram shows a vehicle door 2 designed as a side door, specifically a swing door, with parts of it removed from the rest. The door 2 has a door assembly 64, which has a door frame 66 that serves as the door body and a door module 4 that can be fitted thereon.

[0104] The door frame 66 forms the door body, which houses the functional components and door parts of the door 2. The door body opens from the inside of the vehicle through an assembly opening 68, which is closed or covered by the assembly carrier 6 of the door module 4 in the assembled state. In the assembled state, the assembly carrier 6 serves as a dry and wet space divider for the door 2.

[0105] During the assembly of door module 4 to the door frame 64 of door 2, the assembly carrier 6 of door module 4 is first hung on the edge of the assembly opening 68, and then pivoted so that the connecting cable 34 of the track slider assembly 18 can be accessed from the dry space side. Subsequently, in the tilted position of the module, the cable interface 38 is brought into contact with the window interface 36. For this purpose, in the delivery or transport state of door module 4, the track slider assembly 18 is moved to the upper end of the window regulator track 16, thereby bridging the distance to the window glass adapter 44 by the redundant length of the cable segment 42. Figure 11c , 12c 13a shows cable location A, where interfaces 36 and 38 are in contact in the tilted position of the module.

[0106] After contact, the assembly carrier 6 is pivoted onto the door frame 64, thereby closing the assembly opening 68. The resulting cable position B is shown in... Figure 11b , 12b 13b.

[0107] Finally, the parked window glass 10 is lowered, causing the window glass opening 33 to lock or clamp with the window glass retainer 32. This establishes an electrical and mechanical connection between the window glass 10 and the track slider assembly 18. The resulting cable position C is as follows: Figure 11a , 12a As shown in 13c.

[0108] Here, the retaining device 46 of the track slider assembly 18 can assemble the door module onto the door frame 66 by lateral rotation, wherein the assembly carrier 6 is hung on the vertical side of the assembly opening 68 and pivots substantially about a rotation axis oriented parallel to the Z direction. Figure 14 Alternatively, the door module can be mounted on the door frame by rotating it about a horizontal axis approximately parallel to the X-direction. Figure 15 ).

[0109] The claimed invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, those skilled in the art can derive other variations of the invention from these embodiments within the scope of the disclosed claims without departing from the subject matter of the claimed invention. In particular, within the scope of the disclosed claims, all individual features associated with the various embodiments can also be combined in other ways without departing from the subject matter of the claimed invention.

[0110] List of reference numerals

[0111] 2 car doors

[0112] 4-door module

[0113] 6. Assembly Carrier

[0114] 8 Window lifters

[0115] 10 window glass

[0116] 12 servo motors

[0117] 14 Servo Mechanism

[0118] 16 guide rails

[0119] 18 Track slider assembly

[0120] 20 Cable traction components

[0121] 22 Transmission device

[0122] 24 Cable winches

[0123] 26 Cable pulleys

[0124] 28 Cable pulleys

[0125] 30 Track Slider

[0126] 31 Guiding element

[0127] 32 Window glass retainer

[0128] 33 Window glass holes

[0129] 34 Connecting cables

[0130] 36 Window Interfaces

[0131] 38 Cable interface

[0132] 40 Carrier Interface

[0133] 42 cable sections

[0134] 44 Window Glass Adapter

[0135] 46. ​​Maintain equipment

[0136] 48. Keep the adapter in place.

[0137] 50 Maintaining Section

[0138] 52 clamping device

[0139] 53 Holding element

[0140] 54 Joining Profile

[0141] 56 Coupling Profile

[0142] 57. Guiding Outline

[0143] 58. Maintain the bow shape.

[0144] 60 Bow-shaped end

[0145] 62 Free space, guide chute

[0146] 64-door assembly

[0147] 66-door frame

[0148] 68 Assembly opening

[0149] S Close position

[0150] O Open location

[0151] P Window Glass Positioning

[0152] X Vehicle longitudinal direction

[0153] Y (Vehicle lateral direction)

[0154] Z Vehicle height direction

[0155] H Maintain direction

[0156] L-track slider longitudinal direction

[0157] Q. Horizontal direction of the track slider

[0158] Location of cables A, B, and C

Claims

1. A track slider assembly (18) for a window lifter (8), the track slider assembly having: - Electrical connection cable (34), which can be connected to the functional window glass (10) of the window lifter (8) for power supply and / or control. - A track slider (30), which guides the movable movement of the window lifter (8) on the guide rail (16) and is mechanically coupled to the window glass (10). - A retaining device (46) for the connecting cable (34) arranged on the track slider (30), the retaining device having a retaining section (50) and a clamp (52), the clamp being provided and configured to: at least sectionally limit the deformation or warping of the cable section (42) of the connecting cable (34) between the track slider (30) and the window glass (10) along a retaining direction (H) perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider (30).

2. The track slider assembly (18) according to claim 1. Its features are, The clamp (52) overlaps with the connecting cable (34) in the holding direction (H).

3. The track slider assembly (18) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The clamp (52) has at least one bridge-type retaining bow (58) that is connected to the retaining section (50) at at least one bow end (60), wherein the connecting cable (34) passes through the free space (62) formed between the retaining bow (58) and the retaining section (50).

4. The track slider assembly (18) according to claim 3. Its features are, The retaining bow-shaped member (58) has an arcuate orientation along the longitudinal direction (L) and / or the transverse direction (Q) of the track slider.

5. The track slider assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 4. Its features are, The retaining device (46) has a guide groove (62) in which the connecting cable (34) is guided.

6. The track slider assembly (18) according to claim 5. Its features are, The guide groove (62) is formed by the free space arranged between the retaining bow-shaped member (58) and the retaining section (50).

7. The track slider assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 6. Its features are, A retaining adapter (48) implemented separately from the track slider (30) has the retaining device (46), wherein the retaining adapter (48) can engage with the track slider (30) in a form-locking and / or force-locking manner.

8. The track slider assembly (18) according to claim 7. Its features are, The retaining adapter (48) and / or the track slider (30) have an engagement profile (54) for establishing a locking or snap-fit ​​connection.

9. A retaining adapter (48) for a track slider assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, the retaining adapter being form-locked and / or force-locked to engage with a track slider (30), the retaining adapter having a retaining device (46) for a connecting cable (34), the retaining device having a retaining section (50) and a clamp (52), the clamp being configured and set to at least sectionally limit deformation or warping of the connecting cable (34) in the cable section (42) between the track slider (30) and the window glass (10) along a retaining direction (H) perpendicular to the orientation of the track slider (30).

10. A door module (4) for a vehicle door (2) having a window glass (10), the door module having: an assembly carrier (6) on which at least one guide rail (16) is arranged; and a track slider assembly (18) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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