Locking device for a motor vehicle

Abstract

Locking device (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a drive unit (17) with at least one electric motor (4), a locking lever (5) wherein the locking lever (5) is movable by means of the drive unit (17), a flap element (2) wherein the flap element (2) can be locked by means of the locking lever (5), wherein the locking lever (5) can be inserted into the flap element (2) so that a position (P1, P2) of the flap element (2) can be fixed, characterized in that the drive unit has a pinion (18) arranged on a motor shaft of the electric motor (4) by means of which the locking lever (5) can be driven directly.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a locking device for a motor vehicle, comprising a drive unit with at least one electric motor, a locking lever wherein the locking lever is movable by means of the drive unit, and a flap element wherein the flap element is lockable by means of the locking lever.

[0002] Modern motor vehicles are equipped with central locking systems. The vehicle is typically locked or unlocked via a control function, preferably integrated into a car key, by means of a control command. Locking the vehicle refers not only to the side doors or tailgate, but also to compartments located inside the vehicle. For example, a convertible might have a compartment with a lid in the center console, which can also be locked using the control function. Other compartments or areas on the vehicle with lids include, for example, a glove compartment or a fuel filler flap. These lids can be locked using a latch, which engages with the lid, thus preventing it from being opened.

[0003] A locking unit for a motor vehicle, and in particular for a fuel filler flap, is known from DE 10 2011 116 067 A1. To lock the fuel filler flap, a locking bolt is guided axially and rotated, the rotational movement enabling a bayonet-like closure of the fuel filler flap. The locking bolt is guided in a housing via a cam track, so that a defined movement of the locking bolt is achieved with each actuation of the locking bolt. For activating or opening the fuel filler flap, the locking device has an electric drive unit that interacts with the locking bolt in such a way as to enable the fuel filler flap to be closed or opened.

[0004] Another locking device and a method for controlling a locking device are known from DE 103 30 503 A1. The locking device is intended for fuel filler flaps, glove compartments, or door locks and for connection to central locking systems of motor vehicles. A pivotally mounted rotary latch is driven by an electric drive and a three-stage gear stage. The rotary latch is mounted on a shaft in a housing, so that a pivoting movement of the shaft enables the flap to be locked and unlocked. The rotary latch is designed as a hook element and has an inclined surface, so that, in conjunction with the flap element, the rotary latch can be actuated and control commands can be executed simultaneously.To open the flap, for example, pressure is applied to the fuel filler flap from the outside, initiating a rotary movement in the rotary latch, the shaft comprising a disc-shaped segment that interacts with a pressure switch, so that the control unit receives a command to activate the electric drive, which in turn actuates the electric drive, ultimately initiating a pivoting movement of the rotary latch.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 10 2012 004 078 A1 describes an actuating device for a flap movably mounted on a component between a closed position and an open position, in particular for a flap movably mounted on a recess of an automobile, comprising: a first actuating part and a second actuating part designed to engage with each other in a direction of movement, locking means with a locking recess provided in the first or second actuating part and a locking element provided on the other of the first or second actuating part, wherein the locking element engages in the locking recess during an engagement of the actuating parts and thus holds the actuating parts together in a locking position, wherein the locking recess is sufficiently large,so that in the locked position a relative movement between the locking element and the locking recess in the direction of movement of the actuating parts and thus a corresponding relative movement of the actuating parts to each other in their direction of movement is possible, and a sensor device which is designed to detect a relative movement between the locking element and the locking recess in the direction of movement in the locked position.

[0006] One problem that can arise with known locking devices is that secure movement of the flap element cannot be guaranteed at every time and in every position of the flap element. Depending on the design of the locking elements in the prior art, it can happen that the flap element is not closed properly, or that, due to insufficient interaction of the components of the locking devices, opening of the flap element is prevented. Furthermore, the drive unit has a pinion (18) arranged on a motor shaft of the electric motor (4), by means of which the locking lever (5) can be directly driven.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide an improved locking device for a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the invention aims to enable the secure closing and locking of the flap element. It also aims to provide a structurally simple and cost-effective solution.

[0008] The problem is solved according to the invention by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the exemplary embodiments described below are not limiting. Rather, any number of variations of the features described in the description, the dependent claims, and the figures are possible. Although a fuel filler flap closure is preferably shown in this exemplary embodiment, the invention is not limited to this application but also extends to locking devices, such as glove compartments, center armrests, or comparable flap elements in which a locking device can be used.

[0009] According to claim 1, the object of the invention is achieved by providing a locking device for a motor vehicle, comprising a drive unit with at least one electric motor, a locking lever, wherein the locking lever is movable by means of the drive unit, a flap element, wherein the flap element can be locked by means of the locking lever and wherein the locking lever can be inserted into the flap element so that a position of the flap element can be fixed, wherein the drive unit has a pinion (18) arranged on a motor shaft of the electric motor (4), by means of which the locking lever (5) can be directly driven. The design of the locking device according to the invention now makes it possible to securely close and fix or position a flap element correctly.In particular, inserting the locking lever into the flap element prevents further movement of the flap element after it has been locked. This is advantageous, for example, when noise emissions, such as those caused by moving the flap element in the closed position, need to be prevented.

[0010] The invention claims a locking device for a motor vehicle. This is preferably, but not exclusively, a locking device for a fuel filler flap; however, other flaps, such as those for an electrical connection, a glove compartment flap, or a flap for a storage compartment, such as in a center armrest of a motor vehicle, are also possible. Preferably, the locking device can be used in a motor vehicle, but it is also conceivable that, for example, flaps of aircraft, such as those used for hand luggage, could be equipped with a locking device according to the invention.

[0011] The locking device can comprise a housing in which at least the drive unit and a locking lever are received, but it is also conceivable that the locking device is arranged in a component of a housing or support belonging to the flap.

[0012] The locking lever is arranged in the locking device such that it can be moved by the drive unit. The drive, preferably an electric motor, interacts directly or indirectly with the locking lever, causing it to engage with the flap element. The engagement of the locking lever with the flap element can be partial or such that the locking lever extends, for example, completely through an opening in the flap element. The locking lever then secures the flap element, preventing it from remaining in its closed position and thus preventing further movement. Preferably, the flap element can assume a closed position, an open position, and a fully open position.The closed position, open position and fully open position can also be referred to as positions.

[0013] A preferred embodiment of the invention arises when the locking device includes a pressure piece that allows the flap element to be positioned. A pressure piece is characterized by a force that can be exerted on the flap element. The pressure piece can be spring-loaded, so that it acts directly or indirectly on the flap element. For example, the pressure piece can serve to ensure that, when the locking lever is released from the flap element (i.e., when the locking lever is no longer engaged with the flap element), the pressure piece exerts a force on the flap element and moves the flap element into an open position.The open position here means that the flap element is open at least far enough that it is immediately apparent to an operator of the locking device that the flap element has been opened, and / or open far enough that an operator can grasp the flap element with their fingers and open it completely. The pressure piece thus serves to assist with ease of use and opening the flap element. Preferably, the pressure piece is designed as a hollow cylinder, incorporating a compression spring that biases the pressure piece towards the flap element.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, the locking lever is linearly movable within the locking device. A linear movement of the locking lever offers the advantage of a simple design and a structurally advantageous assembly of the drive unit for the locking lever. Preferably, a linear movement can also advantageously facilitate engagement between the locking lever and the flap element, particularly enabling secure fixing of the flap element.

[0015] An advantageous embodiment of the invention arises when the locking lever is arranged in a closed position of the flap element almost or parallel to the flap element. On the one hand, the linear actuation of the locking lever can be advantageously implemented structurally, and on the other hand, a parallel or almost parallel arrangement of the locking lever to the flap element offers the possibility of designing the locking device in a very compact form. Furthermore, the engagement between the locking lever and the flap element is easily represented structurally, since the locking lever can engage directly with the flap element. Preferably, the flap element and the locking lever are arranged parallel to each other, whereas the pressure piece is arranged at right angles to the flap element or the locking lever.

[0016] If the locking lever can be driven directly by means of a pinion arranged on a motor shaft of the electric motor, this results in an essential embodiment of the invention. Such a design of the drive unit offers the advantage of an extremely cost-effective and structurally simple design for moving the locking lever. Preferably, a pinion arranged on the motor shaft engages directly with teeth arranged on the locking lever or even formed integrally with the locking lever. If the locking lever is linearly displaceable within the locking unit, a drive for the locking lever can be implemented with the fewest possible components.The electric motor can be driven in different directions to move the locking lever, thus enabling the flap element to be locked and unlocked using the locking lever. In the locked position of the locking lever, the flap element is in the closed position and the locking lever is engaged with the flap element, thus fixing the flap element in its position.

[0017] If the locking lever interacts with the flap element in a positive-locking manner, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention results. The flap element can be moved into its closed position by means of a positive locking mechanism. For example, if an end of the locking lever interacting with the flap element is provided with a chamfer, the interaction between the locking lever and the flap element can be optimized, and secure locking of the flap element can be ensured.For example, if the locking lever is cylindrical at the end interacting with the flap element, and the flap element has a bore, then a slight engagement at the beginning of the locking process can be ensured by means of a geometric design of the locking lever's end. At the end of the locking process, a secure fixation of the flap element can be ensured by a positive fit between the cylindrical locking lever and the bore in the flap element. Of course, it is also conceivable that a geometric shape, such as a slope, chamfer, cone, or pyramid, to name just a few examples, could be designed to enable a positive fit between the locking lever and the flap element.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking lever has a spring element, wherein the spring element interacts with the drive unit, in particular the motor shaft, so that a position of the locking lever can be stabilized. The locking lever is moved by means of the drive unit. Depending on the requirements placed on the flap element, different closing and / or opening processes can be achieved. Starting from a closed position of the flap element, the locking lever is engaged with the flap element. If an operator of the locking unit now sends a control command to the locking unit, for example by actuating a switch or activating a radio remote control, the drive unit moves the locking lever in such a way that the locking lever disengages from the flap element.If the flap element is spring-loaded, for example, it will move itself into an open position or open completely. If the locking unit is designed with a pressure piece, the pressure piece can move the flap element into the open position after it has been unlocked. From the open position, the operator can then fully open the flap element. If, according to the invention, the locking unit and, in particular, the locking lever are equipped with a spring element, the locking lever can move itself back into its locking position. In this case, no separate control command from an operator is required to move the locking lever back. This, of course, presupposes that no self-locking gear is used in the area of ​​the drive unit between the electric drive and the locking lever.If the locking lever is now back in the locked position and the flap element remains open, the operator can manually close the flap element to re-engage it with the locking lever. To do this, the locking lever is slightly moved out of its locked position and, under the action of the spring element, engages with the flap element, thus enabling the flap element to be locked.

[0019] If the pressure piece is bistable within the locking device, a further embodiment of the invention results. If the pressure piece is bistable, it is capable of assuming two different positions. On the one hand, the pressure piece is in a stable end position when the flap element is closed, and on the other hand, it is capable of assuming a second stable position when the flap element is in an open position. For this purpose, the pressure piece can be equipped with a compression spring and interact with a control contour. A control contour can, for example, be designed on the pressure piece in the form of a ballpoint pen mechanism. In this case, the flap element can be spring-loaded in the direction of the closing position.If the operator sends an opening command to the flap element, the drive unit moves the locking lever so that the locking lever and the flap element disengage. The flap element remains in its closed position. Only when the operator manually operates the flap element by pressing on it is the locking mechanism activated, causing the pressure piece to move from the closed to the open position, or vice versa, and thus moving the flap element into the open position.

[0020] If the flap element has an extension, in particular a cylindrical extension, and the locking element can be inserted into the extension, a further advantageous embodiment of the invention results. An extension on the flap element in the direction of the locking unit offers the advantage that the locking unit can be arranged at any desired distance from the flap element, for example, in a motor vehicle. This makes it possible, for example, for a fuel filler neck or a charging socket to be optimally aligned with respect to the opening released by the flap element. Furthermore, the extension can also be designed such that it not only interacts with or can be engaged by the locking lever, but it is also possible for the extension to interact directly with the pressure piece.If the axes of action of the pressure piece and the extension are collinear or even coincident, at least in the closed position, optimal interaction between the extension and the pressure piece can be achieved. For example, if the extension and pressure piece act collinearly and are in a closed position, the pressure piece can simultaneously act as a stop for the flap element. Preferably, the locking lever engages directly with the extension, so that the flap element can be locked or fixed. For this purpose, a blind or through hole can be formed or machined into the cylindrical extension of the flap element, into which the locking lever can be inserted. Preferably, the locking lever is also cylindrical, so that an optimal positive fit between the extension on the flap element and the locking lever can be achieved.

[0021] If the pressure piece is monostable within the locking device and the locking lever interacts with a spring element so that the locking lever can automatically return to its locking position, a further preferred embodiment of the invention results. Monostable means that the pressure piece can only assume one end position.

[0022] An end position is defined as the position in which the flap element is in the open position. The pressure piece is thus pre-tensioned by the pressure piece in the closed position of the flap element. In this embodiment, the locking lever is preferably also equipped with a spring element, so that after being actuated by the drive unit, the locking lever automatically returns to its locked position. If an operator now sends an opening command to the locking device, the drive unit moves the locking lever so that it disengages from the flap element. The pressure piece is in the closed position and, after the flap element is unlocked, moves it into its open position. From the open position, the flap element can now be fully opened.After the drive unit is deactivated, the locking lever automatically returns to the locked position under the influence of the spring element. The pressure piece holds the flap element in the open position, allowing the operator to grasp and fully open it. To close the flap element, the operator moves it to its closed position, which pre-tensions the pressure piece and causes the locking lever to re-engage with the flap element, securing it in the closed position.

[0023] If at least one switching device is arranged on the locking lever and / or pressure piece and / or flap element, a further embodiment of the invention results. A switching device serves to detect the positions of the components of the locking device, so that, on the one hand, control commands can be executed and / or, for example, a signal can be provided with which the operator of the locking device can receive, for example, a visual signal in the form of a display, so that the status quo of the locking device is easily ascertainable for the operator.

[0024] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and a preferred embodiment. However, it is important to note that this embodiment does not limit the invention but merely represents an advantageous configuration. The features shown can be implemented individually or in combination with other features described in the description and claims.

[0025] They show: Fig. 1 a three-dimensional view of a locking device with a housing and a flap element in a closed position of the flap element, Fig. 2 a three-dimensional view of a locking device with a flap element, showing a fixed state of the flap element, and Fig. 3 another view of the locking device according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, wherein the flap element is also shown in a closed position and in a locked position.

[0026] In the Fig. Figure 1 shows a three-dimensional view of a locking device 1 in conjunction with a flap element 2. The locking unit 1 comprises a housing 3, an electric motor 4, a locking lever 5, a pressure piece 6, and a switching element 7 in the form of a microswitch. The locking unit 1 is shown with a housing 3, which is designed as a separate housing 3 and can be mounted, for example, on the body of a motor vehicle. In this preferred embodiment, the flap element 3 is a fuel filler cap.

[0027] The flap element 2 is in its closed position P1 and is pivotally mounted about the pivot point D, so that the flap element 2 can be moved in the direction of arrow P into an open position BP2. Beyond the open position P2, the flap element 2 can be fully opened, thus enabling, for example, refueling with fuel or electricity.

[0028] The flap element 2 has an extension 8 that interacts with the pressure piece 6. The pressure piece 6 is arranged to be linearly displaceable in a guide 9 of the housing 3 and, in this embodiment, is designed as a bistable pressure piece 6. Bistable here means that the pressure piece 6 can move the flap element 2 via the extension 8 from the closed position P1 to the open position P2.

[0029] The housing 3 comprises, in addition to the guide 9, a housing part 11 for receiving the electric motor 4, the locking lever 5, and the switching element 7. The locking lever 5 is also linearly displaceable within the housing part 11 and additionally has an actuating lever 12, which allows the locking lever 5 to be manually actuated in the event of a power failure. The actuating lever 12 rests against the housing 3 with a collar 13.

[0030] In the Fig. Figure 2 shows the locking device 1 without the housing 3. The locking device 1 is depicted in a position where the locking lever 5 is engaged with the extension 8 of the flap element 2. For this purpose, the extension 8 has an opening 14 into which one end 15 of the locking lever 5 can be inserted. In this closed position P1 of the flap element 2, the extension 8 and the pressure piece 6 are aligned coaxially with respect to the axis A, meaning that the central axes of the extension 8 and the pressure piece 6 lie on a common axis A. A control contour 16 is formed in the pressure piece 6, which interacts with a pin arranged on the guide 9 of the housing 3, so that the pressure piece 6 follows a defined sequence of movements.

[0031] The locking lever 5 is arranged virtually parallel to the flap element 2 and is mounted to be linearly displaceable within the housing 3 of the locking device 1. In addition to the electric motor 4, the drive unit includes a pinion 18 and a toothed section 19 on the locking lever 5. This provides an extremely simple method for driving the locking lever 5. The locking lever 5 also features a spring element 20, which in this embodiment is formed integrally with the locking lever 5. When the locking lever 5 is linearly displaced, the spring element 20 interacts with the axial end of the motor shaft 21. Thus, a force can be exerted on the locking lever 5 via the spring element 20, thereby securing the locking lever 5 in its correct position.Also integrally formed on the locking lever 5 is a contour 22 which interacts with the microswitch 7, so that the position of the locking lever 5 can be determined and evaluated for control purposes.

[0032] In the Fig.Figure 3 shows another view of the locking device 1 with a compression spring 23 associated with the locking lever 5. Identical components are also represented by the same reference numerals. The pressure piece 6 is designed as a hollow cylinder with one end closed in the direction of the extension 8. A compression spring 25 is also arranged inside 24 of the pressure piece 6, so that, in conjunction with the control contour, a bistable position of the pressure piece 6 can be achieved. The compression spring 23, which interacts with the locking lever 6, causes the locking lever to move back into its locking position independently. The locking lever 5 only needs to be moved out of the locking position by means of the drive unit 17. Advantageously, the compression spring 23 is thus used in a monostable pressure piece 6.

Claims

[1] Locking device (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a drive unit (17) with at least one electric motor (4), a locking lever (5) wherein the locking lever (5) is movable by means of the drive unit (17), a flap element (2) wherein the flap element (2) is lockable by means of the locking lever (5), wherein the locking lever (5) is insertable into the flap element (2) so that a position (P1, P2) of the flap element (2) can be fixed, characterized by , that the drive unit has a pinion (18) arranged on a motor shaft of the electric motor (4), by means of which the locking lever (5) can be driven directly. [2] Locking device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the locking device (1) has a pressure piece (6) so that the flap element (2) can be positioned. [3] Locking device (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by, that the locking lever (5) is linearly movable within the locking device (1). [4] Locking device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the locking lever (5) is arranged in a closed position (P1) of the flap element (2) almost parallel or parallel to the flap element (2). [5] Locking device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the locking lever (5) engages positively with the flap element. [6] Locking device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that the locking lever (5) has a spring element (20), wherein the spring element (20) interacts with the drive unit (17), in particular the motor shaft (21), so that a position of the locking lever (5) can be stabilized. [7] Locking device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that the pressure piece (6) is bistable in the locking device (1). [8] Locking device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the flap element (2) has an extension (8), in particular a cylindrical extension (8), and that the locking element (5) can be inserted into the extension (8). [9] Locking device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6 and 8, characterized by , that the pressure piece (6) is monostablely received in the locking device (1) and the locking lever (5) interacts with a spring element (23) so that the locking lever (5) can be automatically reset to its locking position. [10] Locking device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by , that at least one switching device (7) is arranged on the locking lever (5) and / or on the pressure piece (6) and / or on the flap element (2).

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