Closure device for a filling or connection opening on a vehicle

Abstract

Closure device for closing a through-opening (O) on a vehicle, wherein an interior space (I) with a filling or connection opening is accessible via the through-opening (O) and the through-opening (O) is closable by a cover element (1) which is adjustable on the vehicle by external power between at least one closed position for closing the through-opening (O) and a release position for releasing the through-opening (O), wherein control electronics are provided for triggering an adjustment of the cover element (1) with at least one sensor device (S1, S2; S1*, S2*; 5, 6), characterized in that at least one first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) and second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) are provided, wherein - an operating event for opening the cover element (1) can be detected via the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) and an operating event for closing the cover element (1) can be detected via the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) which is spatially spaced from the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5), - the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) is provided at least in part on a cover section (10) of the cover element (1) which at least partially closes the through-opening (O) in the closed position, and that the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) is provided at least in part on a section (11, 14) of the cover element (1) which is different from the cover section and which faces the through-opening (O) in the release position.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a closure device according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Such a closure device, as known, for example, from DE 10 2008 040 001 A1, is provided for closing a through-opening on a vehicle, e.g., in the area of ​​the vehicle body. An interior space having a filling or connection opening is accessible via the through-opening, wherein the through-opening can be closed by a cover element. This cover element is adjustable on the vehicle between at least one closed position for closing the through-opening and a release position for releasing the through-opening. A cover element of the closure device can thus be, for example, a tank cap or a tank flap, which covers or conceals an interior space provided on the vehicle body, within which interior space a filler neck with a filling opening for a fuel tank is located.Analogously, a cover element can be formed by an adjustable cover or a lid to form a through-opening for access to a filling opening for filling a washer fluid reservoir or to a connection opening for connecting a charging cable of an electric charging station for a battery drive of the vehicle.

[0003] In conventional closure devices, in addition to a cover element, a separate closure element is provided to close the filling opening or connection opening. For example, a fuel tank filler neck usually has a separate tank cap to tightly close the filling opening. This cap must be unscrewed from the filler neck after the fuel flap or tank cap has been opened in order to refill fuel via the filling opening. With conventional closure devices, a user therefore has to perform several manual operations to access a filling or connection opening on the vehicle. To increase ease of use, vehicles are now often equipped with an external power-operated adjustment of at least the cover element, for example by means of a spring drive or a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric drive motor.In this way, at least the adjustment of the lid element into its release position no longer has to be done manually.

[0004] DE 199 19 251 A1 further proposes mechanically coupling a cover element in the form of a movable fuel filler flap to a closure element for closing a filling opening on a filler neck of the fuel tank, so that when the fuel filler flap is opened, the closure element is automatically adjusted, thereby releasing the filling opening. The closure element is part of a valve device with a ball valve, so that the closure element is rotated when the fuel filler flap is moved as a cover element. In DE 199 19 251 A1, the closure element and the cover element in the form of the fuel filler flap are formed by two separate components. However, these are coupled to one another, so that their adjustment movements influence each other. A mechanical gear with at least one lever is provided for the coupling.Although the locking device proposed in DE 199 19 251 A1 achieves an increase in comfort compared to conventional locking devices, it still has several disadvantages. In particular, due to the proposed mechanical coupling via a gear mechanism, the design and assembly of the locking device is comparatively complex and, due to the large number of required components, costly and prone to errors.

[0005] From DE 10 2009 058 864 B4, it is also known to provide a single sensor device on a closure device with a cover element in the form of a fuel cap. Once activated, this sensor device controls the contactless opening of the fuel cap and the closing of the fuel cap. The fuel cap is opened when a person or object approaches a proximity sensor of the sensor device within a defined distance. It closes automatically when the person or object moves away from the proximity sensor.

[0006] Such a locking device is potentially prone to errors. For example, a user approaching a fuel cap might initially trigger its opening, but the cap might close again as soon as the user reaches for a fuel nozzle and moves too far away from the proximity sensor. Furthermore, the sensor device cannot easily be installed on the adjustable fuel cap itself, as adjusting the fuel cap also moves the proximity sensor. Thus, the influence of the vehicle body on the proximity sensor in the different adjustment positions might have to be compensated for, especially in order to correctly control the closing of the fuel cap.

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a closure device with which the aforementioned disadvantages can be avoided or at least reduced and with which, in particular, the ease of use for a user can be increased.

[0008] This object is achieved with a closure device of claim 1.

[0009] A closure device according to the invention is provided for closing a through-opening on a vehicle, wherein an interior space having a filling or connection opening is accessible via the through-opening, and the through-opening can be closed by a cover element which can be positioned on the vehicle by external power between at least one closed position for closing the through-opening and a release position for releasing the through-opening. A filling or connection opening is generally preferably designed and provided for filling a consumable on a vehicle, wherein a consumable is, for example, an energy source for the vehicle drive, such as fuel, in particular gasoline, diesel, or hydrogen, or a consumable fluid, such as engine oil, coolant, or windshield wiper fluid.Accordingly, a liquid reservoir, in particular a washer fluid reservoir, a coolant reservoir or an oil reservoir or a fuel tank can be filled via a filling opening and a connection opening can be provided for connection to a charging station, in particular a charging station for battery or fuel cell drives.

[0010] According to the invention, control electronics for triggering an adjustment of the cover element are provided with a first and a second sensor device, wherein an operating event for opening the cover element can be detected via the first sensor device and an operating event for closing the cover element can be detected via a second sensor device spatially spaced from the first sensor device.

[0011] By using two different sensor devices, one for adjusting the lid element to the release position and thus opening it, and the other for adjusting the lid element to the closed position and thus closing it, and by arranging these at least two sensor devices at a distance from one another, the sensor devices can be better adapted to their respective functions and easily positioned on the lid element itself. The first sensor device for opening the lid element is provided at least partially on a section of the lid element that is easily accessible to a user when the lid element is in the closed position and / or on which a monitoring area can be created in the vicinity of the through-opening when the lid element is in the closed position.In contrast, the second sensor device is arranged at least partially on another section of the cover element which is easily accessible by the user, especially in the release position, and / or on which, when the cover element is open, another monitoring area can be generated in the vicinity of the through-opening for detecting an operating event which leads to the closing of the cover element.

[0012] This avoids the need to arrange a single sensor device on a section of the lid element that is easily accessible to a user both when the lid element is open and closed, and / or in whose vicinity an adequate monitoring area can be created in both cases. Instead, the individual spatially spaced sensor devices can be specifically adapted to their respective functions, designed, and positioned specifically on the lid element. This makes the control electronics of the locking device more robust against changes in ambient conditions, and any false triggering can be more easily avoided. At the same time, the ease of use for a user of the locking device can be significantly increased.

[0013] Preferably, sensor elements of the first sensor device and the second sensor device, via which an electromagnetic field of a proximity sensor or a sensor surface of a touch sensor to be touched is defined, are arranged on the cover element and spatially spaced from at least one sensor element of the other of the first and second sensor devices.

[0014] According to the invention, the first sensor device is further provided for opening the cover element, at least in part, on a cover section of the cover element that at least partially closes the through-opening in the closed position. The second sensor device is in turn provided, at least in part, on a different section of the cover element that faces the through-opening in the release position of the cover element. Depending on the adjustment position of the cover element, a different section of the adjustable cover element is therefore arranged in or on the through-opening, on which section the appropriate sensor device is then also arranged, partially or completely, via which a control signal for adjustment to the other adjustment position can be generated.The first and second sensor devices are therefore each arranged on the section which is more easily accessible in the closed position or in the released position and / or is closer to the through opening.

[0015] Each of the sensor devices used can be based on different measuring principles. For example, a sensor device can operate capacitively, inductively, and / or optically, particularly camera-based. Different measuring principles can, of course, also be combined in each of the sensor devices. Preferably, however, at least one of the sensor devices operates contactlessly, allowing the detection of an operating event for opening or closing the lid element without the user having to touch any part of the closure device or the vehicle.

[0016] In one embodiment, a closure section—preferably adapted to the dimensions of the filling or connection opening—is formed on the cover element, via which the through-opening can be closed. This closure section closes the filling or connection opening when the cover element is in the closed position. Thus, a closure section for the filling or connection opening is integrated into the cover element and, for example, is molded onto or formed from it. The cover element thus forms at least one cover section for closing the through-opening and a closure section for separately closing the filling or connection opening, which is provided within the interior space accessible via the through-opening.

[0017] The filling or connection opening within the interior space can also be accessible in the release position of the cover element via at least one aid provided by the closure device and in particular by the cover element. Using the at least one aid, the filling or connection opening can be more easily accessed from the outside through the through-opening, for example for refilling a reservoir or tank or for connecting a connecting line or cable. For this purpose, one embodiment provides for the adjustable cover element to form a connecting section with a connecting channel which, in the release position of the cover element, ends at or in the filling or connection opening. The closure device therefore forms a connecting section with a connecting channel on an adjustable cover element.One channel end of this connecting channel is accessible at the through-opening and at the other channel end of this connecting channel a connection to the filling or connection opening is established when the cover element is in a release position for releasing the through-opening.

[0018] Via such a connecting channel, for example in the case of a filling opening, a consumable in the form of a fluid, for example a fuel such as gasoline, diesel or hydrogen, can be guided specifically to the filling opening. In the case of a connection opening, for example, a guide for a cable or line and / or a connection plug to be connected to the connection opening, via which a connection to a charging station is provided, is provided via the connecting channel. A connecting channel can, for example, have a circular cross-section and / or at least one funnel-shaped section in order to facilitate filling via a filling opening or the connection of a cable or line to a connection opening.

[0019] In the case of a filling opening for a windshield washer fluid reservoir or a fuel tank, an extension for a filler neck having the filling opening can be provided via the connecting channel when the cover element is in its release position. For example, a fuel nozzle, a fuel nozzle, or a refill funnel can then simply be inserted into the connecting channel, which protrudes further than the filler neck, to refill a vehicle's tank with windshield washer fluid or fuel.

[0020] In one embodiment, the lid element is constructed in one piece, so that a closure section and / or connecting section formed on the lid element is not detachably attached thereto, but is molded onto or formed from the lid element. For example, the lid element is designed as a plastic part with at least a cover section (for the through opening), a closure section (for the filling or connection opening), and a connecting section (with a connecting channel) molded onto it.

[0021] In a further embodiment, the cover element is constructed in multiple parts. It thus comprises at least two parts fastened to one another. Preferably, a cover part is provided with a cover section (for the through-opening) formed thereon and a closure section and / or connecting section, as well as a screen panel attached thereto. The screen panel forms an outer surface of the cover element, which, in the closed position, is visible in or above the closed through-opening. The screen panel can be inserted, in particular clipped, onto the cover section of the cover part. This allows the screen to be not only easily installed but also quickly and easily replaced if necessary.

[0022] By using a separate screen, the cover part with the covering section and a closure section and / or connecting section can be manufactured with a focus on mechanical strength, while the screen is manufactured with a particularly advantageous aesthetic effect or appearance in mind. For example, in the closed position of the cover element, the screen is located on the outer skin of the vehicle and is made of a high-quality metallic material or a high-quality plastic material.

[0023] For the externally powered adjustment of the lid element, a hydraulic, pneumatic or electric motor drive can be provided, for example, so that the lid element can be adjusted - at least from a closed position to a released position - in a motor-controlled manner without the user having to manually apply force to the lid element. Ease of use can be considerably increased by externally powered adjustment of the lid element, such as a tank cap. Preferably, the lid element is adjusted in both adjustment directions, i.e. from the closed position to the released position and vice versa. This can prevent a user from coming into contact with contaminated components of the closure device when refilling a consumable via the filling opening or when connecting a cable or line to a connection opening, e.g.an outside of a fuel cap.

[0024] In a closure device with a power-operated adjustment mechanism, at least one proximity sensor can also be provided, by means of which a user can trigger a power-operated adjustment of the cover element without contact. Such a proximity sensor can operate capacitively, optically, or inductively, for example. Via one or more proximity sensors, a signal for adjusting the cover element can be triggered, for example, by a user performing a specific gesture in the area of ​​the cover element. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding sensor system can detect a specific object in the area of ​​the cover element and then trigger the adjustment of the cover element. For example, the adjustment of a fuel cap can occur automatically if a fuel nozzle or charging plug is detected by sensors in the area of ​​the cover element.

[0025] In one embodiment, the closure device can comprise at least one sensor device with at least one touch sensor—optionally in addition to a contactless proximity sensor. The touch sensor can be used by a user to trigger a power-operated adjustment of the lid element by touching a sensor surface. The provision of a touch sensor provides a way for a user to control the adjustment of the lid element more precisely. The user must actively touch or actuate a sensor surface defined by the touch sensor before a specific adjustment of the lid element is carried out. For example, a combination of sensor devices with proximity and touch sensors can be provided.

[0026] Thus, an operating event for opening the lid element, for example the approach of the user or a specific object to the lid element - in the case of a fuel cap, for example the bringing of a fuel nozzle - or a gesture by the user in the area of ​​the lid element, can be detected contactlessly by at least one proximity sensor of the first sensor device and trigger the opening of the closed lid element. To subsequently close the lid element, however, the user must then touch a sensor field - preferably on the lid element - which is defined by a touch sensor of the second sensor device. In one exemplary embodiment, a sensor device can detect whether an object, e.g. a fuel nozzle, has been inserted into the connecting channel. Automated closing of the lid element can occur here depending on whether an object is still detected in the connecting channel.For example, removing a fuel nozzle from the connecting channel can trigger an adjustment signal that leads to the closure of the cover element. Alternatively, only a further operating event triggered by a user and the associated adjustment signal will close the cover element if the removal of the object from the connecting channel has also been detected. This provides an additional safety routine that prevents the cover element from being inadvertently adjusted while an object is still in the connecting channel and, for example, a fuel nozzle is still inserted into an open tank cap as a cover element.

[0027] In a further development, the control electronics of the closure device can have an evaluation logic that only triggers closure of the cover element when it has been detected that no object has been in the connecting channel for a predetermined period of time. The first or second sensor device or at least one additional third sensor device can thus (additionally) detect when an object has been removed from the connecting channel. If a (delay or safety) period stored in the evaluation logic, e.g., of at least three, five, or seven seconds, elapses without an object being inserted into the connecting channel again, an adjustment of the cover element is triggered or permitted.This can be particularly advantageous in an embodiment with a lid element designed as a tank cap, in order to only close the tank cap automatically after a sensor has detected that a fuel nozzle is no longer inserted into a connecting channel integrated in the tank cap, which ends at the filler neck of the fuel tank when the tank cap is in the release position. In this case, the tank cap can be closed automatically after the fuel nozzle has been removed and a predetermined period of time has elapsed. In a further development, the tank cap is only closed after the predetermined period of time has elapsed and if, in addition, a corresponding operating event was detected beforehand or afterwards, either contactlessly or via a touch sensor.

[0028] In this embodiment in particular, an (additional) operating event for closing the cover element can be detected via vehicle electronics, and a corresponding control signal can be transmitted to the control electronics. For example, a cover element that is still open closes automatically after the vehicle's engine has been started or when the vehicle reaches a stored driving speed. This can, for example, ensure that a cover element in the form of a fuel cap is automatically closed when the evaluation logic of the control electronics of the closure device has detected that there is no object in the connecting channel - possibly for a predetermined period of time - and, in addition, the vehicle engine has been started or the vehicle is already moving. This prevents the fuel cap from remaining inadvertently open while driving.

[0029] An embodiment variant of the present invention, which can be readily combined with one of the previously mentioned variants, relates to a closure device in which the cover element has an external screen which is fastened to the cover section of the cover element which at least partially closes the through opening in the closed position and at least one sensor device of the closure device at least in parts - in a space formed between the cover section and the screen, and / or - is accommodated in a cavity of the cover section and / or in a cavity of the screen.

[0030] For example, in such a design of the cover element, a proximity sensor and / or a touch sensor of a sensor device for the power-operated adjustment of the cover element can be at least partially, preferably completely, accommodated in an intermediate space formed between the cover section for closing the through-opening and a screen. In this way, a proximity sensor and / or a touch sensor can be accommodated on the cover element in a particularly space-saving manner. Alternatively or additionally, a proximity sensor and / or a touch sensor can be at least partially accommodated in a cavity of the cover section or the screen. For example, a recess for receiving at least one proximity sensor and / or touch sensor is formed on the cover section of a cover part, and this recess is covered by the screen.

[0031] In addition, an externally powered adjustment of the cover element can be triggered mechanically by a user, for example by actuating an actuating element in the vehicle interior or on the cover element.

[0032] At least one electrical line for one or more sensor devices can be at least partially embedded in the material of the cover element. For example, an electrical line can be injected and / or vapor-deposited onto a surface of the cover element, thus simplifying cabling and eliminating the need for shielding. Alternatively or additionally, at least one electrical line can be subsequently routed on the cover element and held thereon, for example, by reinforcing ribs of the cover element. For example, an electrical line can be clipped on via at least one retaining clip integrated into the cover element.

[0033] The cover element can generally be rotatably mounted via a bearing shaft. In one embodiment, it is further provided that at least one electrical line for a sensor device is routed at least partially in a hollow bearing shaft section within such a bearing shaft. The electrical line is thus routed at least in part within the bearing shaft in order to accommodate and route the line in a space-saving manner. The bearing shaft can be hollow completely or only in one section to accommodate the electrical line or multiple electrical lines.

[0034] In a further development, a lighting and / or a display element can be provided on a cover element.

[0035] A lighting element comprises at least one light source, for example, an LED, to illuminate the lid element in its closed position and / or in its released position. For example, when the tank cap is open, a filler opening for the fuel nozzle can be illuminated to make it easier for the user to insert the fuel nozzle even in low ambient light.

[0036] A display element can be used to provide a user with additional visual information, for example, when the cover element is in the release position. If the cover element closes a filling opening for a fluid reservoir, such as a tank cap or a cap for a windshield washer fluid reservoir, a coolant reservoir, or an oil reservoir, the fill level of the fluid reservoir can be displayed, for example, via one or more display elements. Specifically for this purpose, the display element can comprise one or more lamps to visually indicate the fill level. For example, a different number of lamps can be activated depending on the fill level.Alternatively or additionally, a user can be visually signaled via at least one display element as to whether the cover element has assumed its closed position and / or its release position as intended and / or whether an object is located in a connecting channel that may be present.

[0037] In one embodiment, a display element can indicate whether a fuel nozzle has been correctly inserted into and / or removed from a connecting channel of a tank cap.

[0038] A display element can also include a screen that displays information, e.g., vehicle data such as tire pressure or the type of fuel to be filled. A display can also show, e.g., in the form of a video, how the closure device is to be operated or how a connection between a connection opening that can be closed via the cover element and a charging station, in particular a charging station for battery or fuel cell drives, is to be established.

[0039] In principle, a closure device having a cover element on which a closure section is formed can be used to easily close both an internal filling or connection opening, i.e. within the interior, and an external through-opening. In its closed position, the cover element thus closes both the through-opening and the filling or connection opening behind it. For example, a through-opening visible on an external side, e.g. on the vehicle body, is closed in one exemplary embodiment by a cover element which, within the interior accessible via the through-opening, simultaneously closes another opening at a distance therefrom in the form of a filling opening or connection opening.According to the invention, a cover element thus assumes two functions which, for example, in the case of a filler neck of a fuel tank, are assumed by two different components, e.g. a tank flap or lid on the one hand and a tank cap on the other.

[0040] A cover section and a closure section can be formed on the cover element in such a way that a through-opening and a filling or connection opening that are not located in mutually parallel planes can be closed. For example, in a filler neck for a fuel tank, a tank flap, when closed, extends essentially along a vertical line on the outside of the vehicle body, while the filling opening of the filler neck runs at an angle to this line to facilitate the insertion of a fuel pump nozzle or fuel nozzle.

[0041] The closure section preferably rests against an edge of the filling or connection opening within the interior space when the through-opening is closed by the cover element. This ensures secure and preferably complete closure of the filling or connection opening via the closure section. For this purpose, the entire filling or connection opening can be covered by the closure section when the cover element is in the closed position.

[0042] Furthermore, it is preferred that the closure section tightly closes the filling or connection opening when the lid element is in the closed position. For this purpose, a preferably circumferential seal, e.g., in the form of a sealing lip, can be provided on an edge of the filling or connection opening against which the closure section rests in the closed position. Alternatively or additionally, the closure section can have a seal for tightly closing the filling or connection opening.

[0043] In order to make not only the interior accessible via the through-opening but also the filling or connection opening in the release position of the cover element, one embodiment provides that the filling or connection opening is exposed by the closure section in the release position of the cover element. Consequently, when the cover element is adjusted, the closure section of the cover element is displaced such that the closure section no longer (fully) closes the filling or connection opening.

[0044] The formation of a connecting section with a connecting channel, which is connected to the filling or connection opening in a release position of the cover element, can also be advantageous in the case of an adjustable cover element that does not form a closure section for closing the filling or connection opening in the closed position of the cover element. Thus, in such a design, a separate closure element could in principle still be provided in addition to the cover element in order to (sealingly) close the filling or connection opening via the separate closure element. This separate closure element would therefore have to be removed from the filling or connection opening when the cover element is adjusted to its release position or has already been adjusted.Preferably, in such an embodiment variant, the lid element and the separate closure element are mechanically coupled to one another or controlled via an externally powered adjustment mechanism in such a way that the release of the filling or connection opening via a separate closure element takes place together with the adjustment of the lid element into its release position.

[0045] In a cover element with a connecting channel, one embodiment provides for the connecting section, with one end of the connecting channel, to protrude through the through-opening into the interior space when the cover element is in its release position. A filling or connection opening can be made more easily accessible to a user via a connecting section that at least partially protrudes beyond an edge of the through-opening in the release position. Thus, a fluid can be added or a cable or line can be connected at or via the protruding connecting channel, so that a user no longer has to directly access the filling or connection opening.

[0046] In embodiments considered advantageous, the cover element is adjustable within the interior space. The adjustment of the cover element is preferably carried out such that the cover element is adjustable within the interior space between a closed position and a release position, and the cover element, particularly in its release position, is arranged almost entirely within the interior space and not intrusively outside the interior space. In particular, a closure section of the cover element for closing the through-opening can be accommodated entirely within the interior space in such an embodiment when the cover element is in its release position.In this way, for example, a cover section with an outer side visible in the closed position on a cover element in the form of a tank cap can be moved completely into the interior and / or within the interior, via which the filler neck of the vehicle fuel tank is accessible.

[0047] To ensure adjustability, the cover element can be mounted on a rotatable support. A rotatable support for the cover element can be implemented, for example, via at least one plain bearing and / or a ball joint.

[0048] With a rotatable mounting of the cover element, a sealing surface for sealingly closing the filling or connection opening can be designed concentrically or in a circular arc to the rotational axis of the cover element. Alternatively, a sealing surface is not designed concentrically or in a circular arc to the rotational axis, but extends at a predetermined angle to the rotational axis and / or to a plane in which the through-opening is located. Here, the cover element is preferably mounted such that a rotational movement of the cover element leads to a nearly linear adjustment movement of the closure section onto the sealing surface provided at an edge of the filling or connection opening.

[0049] In addition to the power-operated adjustment of the lid element via an electric motor drive, a mechanical emergency release can be provided. This ensures accessibility to the filling or drive opening even if the drive fails or no electrical power is available to operate the drive, for example, if a vehicle battery is discharged.

[0050] A mechanical emergency release can be provided, for example, by an unlocking mechanism in which locking elements coupled to a drive element of the drive can be manually moved from an automatically assumed locking position to an unlocking position. A flexible traction means, in particular a Bowden cable, can be provided for manual actuation of the unlocking mechanism.

[0051] In one embodiment, a drive element rotatable about a drive axis is coupled to at least one locking element that is adjustable substantially vertically, in particular radially, with respect to the drive axis. This at least one locking element is pre-tensioned into a locking position in which the locking element blocks rotation of the drive element and thus prevents unintentional or improper adjustment of the cover element connected thereto. When the cover element is adjusted via the drive, the locking element is moved into its unlocked position by external force, thus enabling rotation of the drive element. The locking element or several locking elements are provided with a manually operable actuating element, e.g.in the form of a Bowden cable, so that transfer to an unlocking position can also be carried out manually and the drive element is not locked in the event of a drive failure.

[0052] In one embodiment, the drive element is adjustable along the drive axis, and at least one locking element is coupled to the drive element and slidably mounted on a guide section in such a way that the locking element can be adjusted from its locking position to its unlocking position by axially adjusting the drive element. A manual adjustment force can then be transmitted to the drive element via an actuating element in order to manually release a lock and manually adjust the cover element if necessary.

[0053] By providing a power-operated adjustment mechanism for adjusting a cover element, increased security can be provided against unauthorized or misused opening of the cover element. For example, the adjustment mechanism and the associated drive are designed to be self-locking, preventing adjustment of the cover element without controlling the drive.

[0054] The idea underlying the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the figures.

[0055] Here we show: Fig. 1A - 1B a first example of a closure device with a pivotable cover element in the form of a tank cap, via which both a through-opening in a vehicle body and a filling opening of a filler neck can be closed and, in addition, when the tank cap is open, a connecting channel is provided for filling fuel, which is connected to the filling opening of the filler neck and passes through the tank cap, wherein the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B show the fuel cap in different positions as viewed from the outside of the vehicle body; Fig. 2A - 2B in enlarged scale the locking device of the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, in particular showing an interior space within the vehicle body in which the filler neck of the vehicle tank ends and which can be closed by the tank cap; Fig. 3A - 3B the closure device viewed from the inside and in different positions of the tank cap; Fig. 4A - 4B the locking device in with the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B corresponding views without showing the interior in which the tank cap is adjustably mounted; Fig. 5A - 5B another view of the locking device viewed from the inside; Fig. 6A - 6B additional views of the locking device in the different positions of the tank cap; Fig. 7A - 7D four variants of the locking device of the Fig. 1A - 1B in perspective view and with the tank cap in a release position and with differently arranged first and second sensor devices for the automated opening and closing of the tank cap; Fig. 8A - 8C show, in different views, an embodiment of a closure device according to the invention with a pivotable cover element in the form of a tank cap with a viewing panel and a module housing on which the pivotable tank cap with its drive is mounted; Fig. 9A - 9C the locking device of the Fig. 8A - 8C in different views, illustrating the arrangement of several sensor elements of a first sensor device in a cavity closed by the screen; Fig. 10A - 10D the locking device of the Fig. 8A - 8C in various views, in particular illustrating the arrangement of a second sensor device on the tank cap; Fig. 11A - 11B in different views a further development of the embodiment of the Fig. 8A - 10D with a circuit board for the first sensor device integrated into the tank cap; Fig. 12A - 12B a further, alternative development of the locking device of the Fig. 8A - 10D with a circuit board for the first sensor device also integrated into the tank cap.

[0056] The Fig. 1A to 6B are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict embodiments of the invention.

[0057] With the Fig. 1A - 6B, 7A - 7D, 8A - 8C, 9A - 9C, 10A - 10D, 11A - 11B and 12A - 12B show different examples and embodiments of closure devices according to the invention, in which a cover element in the form of a tank cap 1 is rotatably mounted, so that the tank cap 1 can be pivoted between a closed position for closing a through-opening O on the outer skin of a vehicle body K and a release position for releasing this through-opening O. Each tank cap 1 forms a cover section 10, via which the through-opening O is at least partially closed as intended. In addition, each tank cap 1 forms at least one closure section 13 for (tightly) closing a filling opening of a tank nozzle 20 and / or a connecting section 110 with a connecting channel 111 for filling with fuel.

[0058] The Fig. 1A - 6B show an example of a closure device with a pivotable tank cap 1, which forms both a closure portion 13 and a connecting portion 110. The figures labeled "A" show the tank cap 1 in its closed position, while the figures labeled "B" show the tank cap 1 in its release position in a corresponding view.

[0059] The fuel cap 1 has a plate-shaped cover section 10, via which the through-opening O in the vehicle body K is completely closed when the fuel cap 1 is in a closed position. It goes without saying that the cover section 10 can also have a geometry different from that shown and, for example, can have a circular base. The fuel cap 1 is rotatably mounted within an interior space I about a rotation axis D, so that the cover section 10 can be pivoted from a closed position, in which it (almost) completely fills the through-opening O, into the interior space I into an open position.

[0060] For the rotatable mounting, cylindrical bearing sections 12A and 12B are formed on the tank cap 1. A sliding bearing can be realized via these bearing sections 12A and 12B, for example, by designing them as hollow cylinders and each being slipped over a bearing journal, or by these cylindrical bearing sections 12A and 12B each being slidably mounted in a bearing bush.

[0061] In its closed position, the fuel cap 1 seals a filling opening of a fuel filler neck 20 via a closure section 13 inside the interior I. The fuel filler neck 20 forms the end of a filler pipe 2 through which fuel can be filled into a fuel tank of the vehicle. The closure section 13 of the fuel cap 1 is adapted to the geometry of the filling opening on the fuel filler neck 20, so that in the closed position of the fuel cap 1, the closure section 13 lies sealingly against a sealing surface defined by the edge of the filling opening. In the present case, the fuel filler neck 20 is designed with a concave curvature on its end face facing the fuel cap 1. The closure section 13 formed on the fuel cap 1 is correspondingly convexly curved here.The end face of the filler neck 20, against which the closure portion 13 rests in the closed position of the tank cap 1, is also arranged at an angle to the through-opening O. The concave curvature of the end face of the tank neck 20 and the convex curvature of the closure portion 13 of the tank cap 1 each run along a circular path around the rotation axis D, so that the closure portion 13 can be easily displaced relative to the tank neck 20 in order to release the filling opening.

[0062] To release the filling opening and the through-opening O, the tank cap 1 is adjusted in a direction of rotation about the rotation axis D, whereby the plate-shaped cover section 10 is pivoted into the interior of the interior I. The adjustment of the tank cap 1 is carried out via an externally powered adjustment mechanism, by which a torque generated by a drive motor is applied, for example, to a bearing section 12A or 12B, to adjust the tank cap 1. The adjustment is triggered, in particular via a capacitive proximity sensor, for example, in a contactless manner by the detection of gestures from a user or the detection of a specific object, such as a fuel nozzle or a charging plug.Proximity sensors for contactless triggering of an adjustment movement of an adjustment part on a motor vehicle are widely known, for example in connection with the automated adjustment of a vehicle side door, a tailgate, or a trunk lid. In addition, a mechanical trigger can be provided to pivot the fuel tank cap 1 by external power.

[0063] If the tank cap 1 is pivoted into a release position in which the cover section 10 no longer covers the through-opening O, a functional section 11 of the tank cap 1 with a visible surface faces the through-opening O. The edge of a channel end 110A of a connecting channel 111 protrudes from this flat functional section 11 in the manner of a collar. The connecting channel is circular-cylindrical in the example shown. The circular-cylindrical connecting channel 111 is formed by a connecting section 110 of the tank cap 1. While one channel end 110A is accessible at the through-opening O, so that a fuel nozzle, for example, can be inserted here, a connection to the tank nozzle 20 of the filler pipe 2 is established via the other channel end 110B located in the interior I.Thus, the fuel cap 1 defines an extension or connecting piece for the filler pipe 2 through its connecting section 110 with the connecting channel 111, so that in the release position of the fuel cap 1, fuel can be refilled via this extension or connecting piece and the filling opening of the fuel filler pipe 20 is accessible. Since the channel end 110A is located in the area of ​​the through-opening O and is thus easily accessible to a user on the vehicle body K, this facilitates refilling of fuel.

[0064] In the released position of the tank cap 1, the functional section 11 facing the through-opening O is additionally concavely curved. This can, for example, facilitate fluid flow from the functional section 11. Thus, the frontal visible surface of the functional section 11 is inclined to the vertical in the released position of the tank cap 1, so that any dirty or rainwater or fuel residues can flow toward the through-opening O through its concave curvature.

[0065] At a lower area of ​​the functional section 11, below the curved visible surface, a transversely extending strip section 14 is also provided on the fuel cap 1. This strip section 14 can be designed to protect against contamination and / or to prevent unwanted or unhindered access to the interior I. When the fuel cap 1 is in its release position, the strip section 14 can prevent a user from reaching past the fuel cap 1 below the functional section 11 into the interior I. In addition, the strip section 14 makes it more difficult for dirt to penetrate into the interior I below the functional section 11.

[0066] The interior space I can be formed within the vehicle body K by a corresponding formation. Alternatively, the interior space can be formed by a separate housing of the closure device, which is fastened internally to the vehicle body K. The only important aspect of the embodiment shown is that the fuel cap 1, which integrates different functions via its cover section 10, its connecting section 110, and its closure section 13, is rotatably mounted within this interior space I. In this way, the fuel cap 1 not only assumes the function of a conventional fuel cap or a conventional fuel filler flap, but also the function of a closure for the fuel filler neck 20 and provides a connecting channel with its own filler opening, which opens into the filler opening of the fuel filler neck 20.Rather, in a closure device with such a tank cap 1, it is also avoided that parts of the closure device protrude from the vehicle body K, regardless of whether the tank cap is open or closed.

[0067] Although this Fig. 1A - 6A is not shown in detail, an externally powered adjustment mechanism is provided for adjusting the tank cap 1 in order to be able to adjust it, for example, via an electric motor drive and automatically, e.g. with the aid of at least one proximity sensor.

[0068] In a further development, it can be provided that the tank cap 1 is designed in several parts and a separate screen 100 is attached to the cover section 10 as one of at least two parts (see also the embodiments of the Fig. 8A - 8C, 9A - 9C, 10A - 10D, 11A - 11B and 12A - 12B). The screen 100 can be disc-shaped and / or made of a higher-quality material in order to form an aesthetically pleasing outer surface that is adapted to the outer skin of the vehicle, without having to manufacture the entire tank cap 1 from a higher-quality material.

[0069] Between a screen 100 and a cover section 10 to which the screen is attached, an intermediate space can also be provided, in which a proximity sensor or at least parts thereof are housed in a protected manner. In this way, a proximity sensor can be arranged, for example, during the assembly of a multi-part cover element on the cover section 10 or the screen 100, before the screen 100 is attached and the proximity sensor is covered by the screen 100. It can be advantageous, particularly for supporting and attaching the screen 100, if the cover section 10, as shown in the attached figures, is plate-shaped or has a flat end face facing the through-opening. However, this is not mandatory.

[0070] The Fig. 7A - 7D illustrate inventive arrangements of two different sensor devices S1, S2 and S1*, S2* on a tank cap 1 of the adjusting device of the Fig. 1A - 6B. In this case, a first sensor device S1 or S1* is provided for detecting an operating event for opening the fuel cap 1 and a second sensor device S2 or S2* spatially spaced therefrom for detecting an operating event for closing the fuel cap 1. Sensor elements of the first sensor device S1 or S1* are arranged for this purpose on the cover section 10, whereas sensor elements of the second sensor device S2 or S2* are arranged on the functional section 11 and / or the strip section 14 of the fuel cap 1.In this case, at least the parts of a first or second sensor device S1, S1* or S2, S2* are arranged on a section 10 or 11, 14 located in the through-opening O in the closed position or in the release position of the tank cap 1, which define a monitoring area for the contactless detection of an operating event and / or a sensor surface for an operating event detectable by touching the sensor surface.

[0071] In the version of the Fig. 7A, two elongated sensor fields or sensor electrodes S1A and S1B are provided on the cover section 10 as part of the first sensor device S1 in order to detect an operating event for opening the fuel cap 1 when the fuel cap 1 is closed. The two sensor fields or sensor electrodes S1A, S1B each run essentially parallel to the axis of rotation D over a part of the cover section 10 and allow, for example, the approach of a hand or a specific gesture of a user, e.g. a wiping motion, to be detected without contact in order to drive the fuel cap 1 to open it. For contactless detection of an operating event, for example, the change in an electromagnetic field generated by the sensor electrodes S1A, S1B and / or in an electrical capacitance that can be evaluated via this field is detected.Alternatively, a touch sensor can be defined via the sensor fields S1A and S1B, via which it can be detected when a user touches the cover section 10 with his hand, so that the tank cap is opened as a result of this touch.

[0072] Analogously, sensor fields or sensor electrodes S2A and S2B are provided on the strip section 14 below the functional section 11, running parallel to one another, in order to detect, as part of the second sensor device S2, an operating event for closing the tank cap 1 when the tank cap 1 is open and to control the drive accordingly.

[0073] In the version of the Fig. 7B, the two spatially spaced-apart sensor devices S1 and S2 each have a transmitting electrode S1A or S2A and a receiving electrode E1B or E2B in order to capacitively detect an operating event, such as a specific gesture, for opening or closing the fuel cap 1 without contact. An electrode pair formed from a sensor electrode S1A and a receiving electrode E1B of the first sensor device S1 or formed from a sensor electrode S2A and a receiving electrode E2B of the second sensor device S2 is provided in each case at an edge region of the cover section 10 or the functional section 11. The respective electrodes of an electrode pair S1A, E1B or S2A, E2B each run parallel to one another and substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis D.In addition, the two electrode pairs S1A, E1B and S2A, E2B are arranged offset from one another on the tank cap 1 with respect to the rotation axis D, so that the electrodes S1A, E1B of the first sensor device S1 are arranged on the cover section 10 to the left of the channel end 110A, and the electrodes S2A, E2B of the second sensor device S2 are arranged on the functional section 11 to the right of the cover section 10. This makes it easier to prevent mutual interference between the electrode pairs S1A, E1B or S2A, E2B.

[0074] In the version of the Fig. 7C, capacitively operating sensor devices S1 and S2 are also provided. A single transmitting electrode S is provided to define the respective proximity sensors. This sensor electrode S interacts with both a receiving electrode E1A of the first sensor device S1 on the cover section 10 and with another receiving electrode E2A of the second sensor device S2 on the functional section 11 in order to detect an operating event in the respective area around the receiving electrode E1A or E2A when the fuel cap 1 is closed or opened. The single sensor electrode S thus runs partially along both the cover section 10 and the functional section 11 of the fuel cap 1.

[0075] In the version of the Fig. 7D, a sensor surface - here circular - is defined on the cover section 10 and the functional section 11 via two sensor devices S1* and S2* and is monitored for contact by a user. The sensor devices S1* and S2* detect the touching of the corresponding sensor surface on the surface of the tank cap 1 by a user, which then triggers the opening or closing of the tank cap 1. In order to make the sensor surfaces visible to a user on the tank cap 1, markings are provided at the corresponding locations on the cover section 10 and the functional section 11, e.g. in the form of (colored) symbols and / or relief-like contours. Of course, a haptic sensor system according to the embodiment of the Fig. 7D can also be combined with a sensor system for contactless detection of an operating event. For example, opening the fuel cap 1 can be controlled contactlessly via a user gesture, while closing the fuel cap 1 requires touching or even pressing the corresponding sensor surface on the fuel cap 1.

[0076] With the Fig. 8A - 8C, 9A - 9C and 10A - 10D illustrate a second embodiment of a closure device according to the invention.

[0077] In contrast to the previously explained embodiments, in this embodiment, a module housing in the form of a housing frame 15 is provided, to which not only the tank cap 1 is pivotably mounted, but also its drive A is attached. The tank cap 1 can thus be pre-assembled with its drive A on the housing frame 15 and inserted as a module into a body opening, in the interior I of which the tank nozzle 20 is arranged. For this purpose, several fastening points BS are provided on the housing frame 15, both on an upper and a lower housing frame section 15o and 15u.

[0078] In addition, the embodiment of the Fig. 8A - 8C, 9A - 9C and 10A - 10D, a screen 100 is attached to the cover section 10. The screen 100 is attached to the cover section 10 and, in the present case, completely closes the through-opening O when the tank cap 1 is in its closed position. The screen 100 can be made of a higher-quality material, for example a metallic material or a plastic material, and / or can be replaceably attached to the cover section 10 in order to be easily replaced and adapted to customer requirements. In order to make the tank neck 20 accessible via the connecting channel 111 of the tank cap 1, the cover section 10 with the screen 100 attached thereto can be retracted along the upper housing frame section 15o when the tank cap 1 is opened, so that the screen 100 is also largely or completely located inside the interior space I when the tank cap 1 is open.

[0079] As can be seen in particular from the Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C, the screen 100 closes a cavity H formed on the cover section 10. A honeycomb structure W is formed in this cavity H to stiffen the cover section 10, which is open on one side. Furthermore, parts of a first sensor device 5 are arranged in the cavity H, which serves to detect an operating event for opening the tank cap 1. In the present case, several sensor electrodes 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 of the first sensor device 5 are arranged one below the other within the cavity H and covered by the screen 100 when the latter is fixed to the cover section 10 as intended. The individual sensor electrodes 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 are thus located within the cover section 10 and on the rear side of the screen 100 when the latter closes the cavity H as intended.3, a gesture of a user, which is carried out in front of the screen 100 of the closed tank cap 1, can be capacitively detected without contact and, with the aid of an evaluation logic, evaluated as an operating event for opening the tank cap 1.

[0080] As in the Fig. 10A - 10C, the closure device with the tank cap 1 has, in addition to the first sensor device 5 in the area of ​​the cover section 10, a second sensor device 6 in the area of ​​the functional section 11. This second sensor device 6 serves to detect an operating event for closing the tank cap 1. The second sensor device 6 for this purpose also has at least two sensor electrodes, via which an operating event by a user in the area of ​​the functional section 11 can be capacitively detected in order to close the open tank cap 1. In this case, a plurality of spirally wound sensor electrode sections 6.1 of these sensor electrodes are provided on the rear side of the functional section 11. Via these sensor electrode sections 6.1, an influence of the electromagnetic field generated in the area of ​​the functional section 11 by the hand of a user orA resulting change in electrical capacitance can be detected. From this, it is concluded that an operating event for closing the fuel cap 1 has occurred, and the drive A of the fuel cap 1 is controlled accordingly. Contactless detection or sensing of one or more operating events for adjusting the fuel cap 1 can, of course, be achieved not only capacitively, but also inductively and / or optically.

[0081] Furthermore, the second sensor device 6—or alternatively a third sensor device—can detect whether a fuel nozzle is inserted into the connecting channel 111 when the tank cap 1 is open. For this purpose, two sensor electrode sections 6.2 and 6.3 of the sensor electrodes of the second sensor device 6 are provided on the lateral surface of the connecting channel 111 and thus on an outer surface of the connecting section 110. The sensor electrode sections 6.2 and 6.3 extend essentially along the longitudinal axis of the connecting channel 111. These sensor electrode sections 6.2 and 6.3 can be used to detect, without contact, whether a fuel nozzle has been inserted into the connecting channel 111 or removed from it.Accordingly, the externally actuated closing of the fuel cap 1 can be made dependent on whether or not a fuel nozzle signal is present at the evaluation logic of the associated control electronics, indicating that the connecting channel 111 is free and thus no fuel nozzle is (any longer) inserted into the connecting channel 111. This can prevent the fuel cap 1 from being closed automatically even though the fuel nozzle—or another object inserted into the connecting channel 111 from the outside—is still inserted into the connecting channel 111.

[0082] In one embodiment, the closing of the fuel cap 1 can be triggered by detecting the removal of a fuel nozzle after the insertion of the fuel nozzle into the connecting channel 111 has been detected. Since it can be assumed that the refueling process is completed with the removal of the fuel nozzle, the fuel cap 1 is then closed automatically. However, the closing can also occur only after a predefined period of time has elapsed after the removal of the fuel nozzle has been detected. Accordingly, the fuel cap 1 is not closed immediately, but only several seconds after the removal of the fuel nozzle.

[0083] In one embodiment, the fuel cap 1 can also be closed - with or without a time delay - depending on a fuel nozzle signal. However, in order to activate the drive A to close the fuel cap 1, the detection of a (further) operating event is also necessary. Consequently, not only the removal of the fuel nozzle must have been detected by sensors, but also, for example, a corresponding swiping gesture of a user in the area of ​​the second sensor device 6 and / or the touching of a corresponding sensor surface, such as the sensor surface defined by the second sensor device S2* on the functional section 11 according to the Fig. 7D.

[0084] In order to lay electrical lines for coupling the sensor devices 5 and 6 to control electronics and / or to a power supply in a space-saving, secure and rattling-free manner along the closure device and in particular along the tank cap 1, in the embodiment variant shown, a bearing axis 120, which is preferably formed on the tank cap 1 and extends along the axis of rotation D, is at least partially hollow. The bearing axis 120, which on the one hand is rotatably mounted on the upper housing frame section 15o and on the other hand is coupled to the electric motor drive A via a connecting region 1202, can thus accommodate at least one line in its interior.One or more lines can be led out of the interior of the bearing axis 120 via a lateral line opening 1201 in the casing of the bearing axis 120 and are connected to the first sensor device 5 on the cover section 10 and / or the second sensor device 6 on the functional section 11. The line opening 1201 on the bearing axis 120 can also be dimensioned large enough to allow a cable connector provided on the line to be passed through it.

[0085] In this case, on the rear side of the cover section 10, as well as on the rear side of the functional section 11, several reinforcing ribs are provided for stiffening, each of which terminates at the central connecting section 110. Alternatively or additionally, at least one electrical line for one of the sensor devices 5 or 6 can also be laid along these reinforcing ribs.

[0086] In the Fig. 11A - 11B and 12A - 12B are possible further developments of the design variant of the Fig. 8A - 8C, 9A - 9C and 10A - 10D, in each of which a circuit board 50, on which the sensor electrodes 5.1, 5.1 and 5.3 are arranged, is also housed in the cavity H of the cover section 10. Each of the sensor electrodes 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 is connected via a line 51, 52 or 53 to an electronic component 54 or 55 arranged on the rear side of the cover section 10. Each of the electronic components 54, 55 is connected to the circuit board 50 and electrically via the respective lines 51, 52 and 53 to the sensor electrodes 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3. For example, the respective electronic component 54, 55 is plugged into the circuit board 50, for example via press-fit pins.

[0087] In the version of the Fig. 11A and Fig. 11B, the electronic component 54 is formed, for example, by a connector. A cable connector can be plugged into this connector to connect the sensor electrodes 5.1, 5.2, and 5.3 to external control electronics and / or a power supply.

[0088] In the version of the Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B, an electronic component 55 is provided on the rear side of the cover section 10, which in particular carries the evaluation logic for detecting an operator input event. Additionally, the electronic component 55 arranged on the rear side of the cover section 10 and connected to the circuit board 50 can also house the control electronics for controlling the drive A and the evaluation logic for both sensor devices 5 and 6. The connection to the second sensor device 6 can be established via at least one additional line.

[0089] For the connection to the drive A and / or an electrical power supply, a cable can be provided, for example, through the cable opening 1201 of the bearing axis 120. Alternatively or additionally, electrical cables for power supply or signal transmission can be injected into the tank cap 1 and / or vapor-deposited onto its (plastic) material.

[0090] In a further development, a lighting and / or a display element can be provided on a tank cap 1.

[0091] A lighting element comprises at least one light source, for example, an LED, to illuminate the fuel cap 1 in its closed position and / or in its released position. In this way, for example, when the fuel cap is open, the channel end 110A for inserting the fuel nozzle can be illuminated. A corresponding light source or multiple light sources can be provided for this purpose, for example, on the functional section 11 or on the rear side of the cover section 10.

[0092] A display element can also provide a user with additional visual information. For example, this can provide information about the fill level of the tank. In one exemplary embodiment, a display element can indicate whether a fuel nozzle has been correctly inserted into the connecting channel 111 and / or removed therefrom. A display element can also comprise a display on the tank cap 1, which displays information such as vehicle data, such as tire pressure or the type of fuel to be filled. List of reference symbols 1 cover element, tank cap) 10 Cover section 100 screen 11 Functional section 110 connecting section 110A, 110B channel end 111 connecting channel 120 bearing axle 1201 Line opening 1202 connection area 12A, 12B bearing section 13 Closure section 14 groin section 15 housings 15o, 15u housing section 2 Filler pipe 20 fuel filler necks 5 1. Sensor setup 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 Sensor electrode 50 circuit boards 51-53 Line 54, 55 Connector / control electronics with evaluation logic 6 2. Sensor device 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 Sensor electrode section A drive BS fastening point D axis of rotation E, E1A, E2A, E1B, E2B receiving electrode, sensor element H cavity I Interior K Vehicle body O Passage opening S Transmitting electrode, sensor element S1, S1* 1. Sensor device S1A, S1B, S2A, S2B sensor field, sensor electrode, sensor element S2, S2* 2. Sensor device V Adjustment direction W honeycomb structure

Claims

[1] Closure device for closing a through-opening (O) on a vehicle, wherein an interior space (I) with a filling or connection opening is accessible via the through-opening (O) and the through-opening (O) is closable by a cover element (1) which is adjustable on the vehicle by external power between at least one closed position for closing the through-opening (O) and a release position for releasing the through-opening (O), wherein control electronics are provided for triggering an adjustment of the cover element (1) with at least one sensor device (S1, S2; S1*, S2*; 5, 6), characterized by that at least one first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) and second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) are provided, wherein - an operating event for opening the cover element (1) can be detected via the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) and an operating event for closing the cover element (1) can be detected via the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) which is spatially spaced from the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5), - the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) is provided at least in part on a cover section (10) of the cover element (1) which at least partially closes the through-opening (O) in the closed position, and that the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) is provided at least in part on a section (11, 14) of the cover element (1) which is different from the cover section and which faces the through-opening (O) in the release position. [2] Closure device according to claim 1, characterized bythat at least one of the first sensor devices (S1, S1*, 5) and the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) of the closure device comprises at least one proximity sensor, by means of which an externally powered adjustment of the cover element (1) can be triggered by a user without contact. [3] Closure device according to claim 2, characterized by that at least one of the first sensor device (S1 S1*) and the second sensor device (S2, S2*) of the closure device comprises at least one touch sensor, by means of which a user can trigger an externally operated adjustment of the cover element (1) by touching a sensor surface. [4] Closure device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized bythat the cover element (1) is designed in several parts and has an external viewing panel (100) which is fastened to the cover section (10) of the cover element (1) which at least partially closes the through opening (O) in the closed position. [5] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cover element (1) has an external screen (100) which is fastened to the cover section (10) of the cover element (1) which at least partially closes the through opening (O) in the closed position and the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) at least in parts - in a space formed between the cover section (10) and the screen (100), and / or - is accommodated in a cavity (H) of the cover section (10) and / or in a cavity of the screen (100). [6] Closure device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized bythat a cavity (H) of the cover section (10), in which the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) is at least partially accommodated, is closed by the screen (100). [7] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a connecting channel (111) is formed on the adjustable cover element (1), wherein one channel end (110A) of this connecting channel (111) is accessible at the through opening (O) and a connection to the filling or connection opening is established at the other channel end (110B) of this connecting channel (111) when the cover element (1) is in its release position. [8] Closure device according to claim 7, characterized by that the second sensor device (6) can detect whether an object is located in the connecting channel (111). [9] Closure device according to claim 8, characterized bythat the second sensor device (6) for detecting an object in the connecting channel (111) has at least one sensor electrode with sensor electrode sections (6.2, 6.3) on a lateral surface of the connecting channel (111). [10] Closure device according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized by that the control electronics has an evaluation logic which only triggers a closing of the cover element (1) when it has been detected that there is no object in the connecting channel (111). [11] Closure device according to claim 10, characterized by that the control electronics has an evaluation logic which only triggers a closing of the cover element (1) when it has been detected that there has been no object in the connecting channel (111) for a predetermined period of time. [12] Closure device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized bythat the control electronics has an evaluation logic which only triggers a closing of the cover element (1) when it has been detected that there is no object in the connecting channel (111) and an additional operating event has been detected. [13] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one electrical line for the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5 6) and / or the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) is at least partially embedded in the material of the cover element (1). [14] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the cover element (1) is rotatably mounted via a bearing axis (120) and at least one electrical line for the first sensor device (S1, S1*, 5) and / or the second sensor device (S2, S2*, 6) is guided at least partially in a hollow bearing axis section within the bearing axis (120). [15] Closure device according to claim 14, characterized by that a line opening (1201) is provided on the bearing axis (120), through which an electrical line can be led out of the interior of the hollow bearing axis section, and the line opening (1201) is dimensioned such that a line plug provided on the electrical line can be led through the line opening (1201). [16] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the control electronics are provided on the cover element (1), in particular integrated therein. [17] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a liquid reservoir, in particular a washer fluid reservoir, a coolant reservoir or an oil reservoir or a fuel tank, can be filled via a filling opening. [18] Closure device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a connection opening is provided for connection to a charging station, in particular a charging station for battery or fuel cell drives.

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