Device for regulating airflow

The device with a clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism addresses inconsistent material stress in airflow regulation systems, achieving reliable and adaptable reduction of turbulent flows in motor vehicle front-end modules.

DE102020107958B4Active Publication Date: 2026-03-12HBPO GMBH
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2020-03-23
Publication Date
2026-03-12

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing airflow regulation systems in motor vehicle front-end modules suffer from inconsistent material stress, leading to partial sealing and inadequate reduction of turbulent flows due to component-specific tolerances, diameter differences, and wear and tear.

Method used

A device with a closure element, guide element, control elements, and drive elements, featuring a multi-part integrated clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism to ensure a substantially constant tension, minimizing turbulent flows and wear.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides a structurally simple, cost-effective, and adaptable means to reliably reduce turbulent flows by compensating for variable preloads, ensuring optimal aerodynamic properties and durability.

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Abstract

Device (2) for regulating an airflow for a front-end module (1) of a motor vehicle, comprising - a closure element (4) for closing air inlets (38) of a front-end module (1) of a motor vehicle, - a guide element (6) for guiding the locking element (4) during an opening and a closing movement of the locking element (4), - a first and a second control element (8a, 8b) for controlling an opening and a closing movement of the locking element (4), - a first and second drive element (10a, 10b) for driving an opening and a closing movement of the locking element (4), wherein the first and second control element (8a, 8b) has a multi-part integrated clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism (12) for compensating a variable preload of the first and second drive element (10a, 10b), wherein the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism (12) has at least one elastic element (18) for compensating a variable preload, wherein the elastic element (18) is formed in the form of a torsion spring, characterized in that a plurality of front and / or rear retaining points (7, 9) are provided to ensure the setting of different spring preload forces.
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Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for regulating an airflow for a front module of a motor vehicle, a front-end module with such a device, and a motor vehicle comprising such a device.

[0002] In modern motor vehicles, fresh air entering through the vehicle's radiator grille or its openings is channeled and directed onto the vehicle's cooling module. This targeted, channeled airflow to the cooling module ensures that, depending on the module's design, the vehicle's engine and / or charge air for that engine can be efficiently cooled, and / or the vehicle interior can be efficiently air-conditioned.

[0003] Unfortunately, the incoming airflow generates turbulent flows, which counteract the propulsion of the vehicles in question and lead to reduced range or increased fuel consumption. To solve this problem, roller shutter systems are known from the prior art, e.g., from documents DE 10 2014 109 342 A1, DE 10 2009 043 028 A1, DE 10 2017 120 631 A1 or DE 35 22 591 A1. These systems can close the air inlets located within the engine compartment when necessary and thus reduce the generation of turbulent flows.

[0004] However, existing systems for regulating airflow in a vehicle's front-end module often suffer from the problem that maintaining constant material stress in the sealing elements is difficult. This results in the air inlets located within the engine compartment sometimes being only partially sealed, and consequently, the generation of turbulent flows is only inadequately reduced. The reasons for these inconsistent material stresses are typically component-specific tolerances, diameter differences during the winding and unwinding of the roller blind systems, and, in particular, wear and tear on individual components.

[0005] Based on the prior art, the invention aims to at least partially overcome the aforementioned disadvantages of known devices for regulating airflow in a front-end module of a motor vehicle. In particular, the invention aims to provide a device for regulating airflow in a front-end module of a motor vehicle that enables the most effective and reliable reduction of turbulent flows in a structurally simple and cost-effective manner, and is especially flexible and adaptable.

[0006] The foregoing problem is solved by a device having the features of the independent device claim, a front-end module according to claim 35, and a motor vehicle according to claim 36. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the respective dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0007] According to the invention, a device for regulating an airflow for a front-end module of a motor vehicle is provided, comprising a closure element for closing air inlets of a front-end module of a motor vehicle, a guide element for guiding the closure element during an opening and a closing movement of the closure element, a first and a second control element for controlling an opening and a closing movement of the closure element, and a first and second drive element for driving an opening and a closing movement of the closure element.According to the invention, the device for regulating an airflow is characterized in that the first and second control element has a multi-part integrated clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism for compensating for a variable preload of the first and second drive element in order to ensure a substantially constant tension of the closure element.

[0008] The device in question, for regulating airflow for a front-end module of a motor vehicle, can preferably be arranged in the front area of ​​a motor vehicle, in particular between a radiator grille or hood and a vehicle cooling module. Besides use in passenger cars and trucks, the device according to the invention can also be used in other motorized vehicles, such as ships, aircraft, or the like. Preferably, the opening and closing of a closure element can be effected by an interaction between the control elements in question, the drive elements, and the guide element according to the invention, in order to close or open air inlets arranged along the height of the vehicle. Such air inlets can, for example, be in the form of brake cooling ducts or air intake ducts for the engine compartment or for an air conditioning system, or the like.

[0009] According to the invention, the guide element is preferably arranged between the first and second control elements, and in particular directly between them. Within the scope of the invention, an open position is understood to be a state in which the closure element is completely wound onto the guide element and air can enter the front-end module almost unimpeded. Similarly, within the scope of the invention, a closed position is understood to be a state in which the closure element is completely unwound from the guide element and the path for airflow is at least partially, preferably completely, blocked.Within the scope of the invention, a substantially constant tension of the closure element is understood to mean, in particular, a substantially constant tensile stress on the closure element, which results in substantially constant and, where possible, optimal aerodynamic properties and, in particular, the most effective possible reduction of turbulent flows. A constant preload is especially important here to prevent the closure element from fluttering in the airflow, as well as from wrinkling or the like, and thus to ensure clean winding. Within the scope of the invention, a multi-part arrangement is understood to mean, in particular, an arrangement formed from a plurality of separately manufactured parts, which can be positively locked, frictionally locked, or materially locked together.

[0010] Within the scope of the invention, it has been recognized that by arranging a clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism according to the invention, a variable preload of the drive elements can be compensated for, so that even under different environmental and system conditions a substantially constant tensile stress on a closure element according to the invention can be ensured. In particular, the multi-part design provided according to the invention makes it possible to make adjustments to the wear of parts of the device in a structurally simple and quick manner, thereby further improving the durability of the airflow regulating systems.

[0011] Within the framework of a structurally simple design and simultaneously effective power transmission, the invention particularly provides that the first and second control elements have end-mounted receiving means with a receiving area for receiving the drive elements, wherein the receiving means are preferably identical. The drive elements can preferably be guided or directed over the receiving area of ​​the receiving means while ensuring the lowest possible static friction.

[0012] In order to guarantee the simplest, most flexible and adaptable connection of the control elements to the guide element, it is also conceivable that the control elements each have a connecting means for connecting the receiving means to the guide element, wherein the connecting means are preferably form-fittable and can be connected to the guide element, and wherein the connecting means differ at least partially in their shape.

[0013] In a structurally simple design, it can also be provided according to the invention that the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism is connected to the drive elements, preferably in engagement with the drive elements.

[0014] With a view to a simple, cost-effective and adaptable way of compensating for a variable preload, the invention further provides that the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism has at least one elastic element for compensating for a variable preload, wherein the elastic element is formed in the form of a torsion spring.

[0015] In the context of an application according to the invention, it is advantageously conceivable that the spring force of the elastic element is between 28 and 22 N, preferably between 26 and 24 N, in particular 25 N.

[0016] In the context of a structurally simple way of ensuring a releasable fixation of an elastic element within a control element in question, it can be advantageously provided in particular that the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism has at least one front and one rear holding point for fixing a front and a rear end of the elastic element, wherein the holding points are preferably formed in the form of recesses and / or projections.

[0017] It is advantageously conceivable that the front holding point is arranged within the receiving means, wherein the front holding point is preferably formed in the form of an elongated recess for the insertion of the front end of the elastic element.

[0018] At the same time, it is also conceivable that the rear holding point is arranged within the connecting means, wherein the rear holding point is preferably formed in the form of an elongated recess for the insertion of the rear part of the elastic element.

[0019] To create a particularly simple structural method for compensating for wear of parts of the airflow-regulating device according to the invention, a plurality of front and / or rear retaining points are further provided to ensure the adjustment of different spring preload forces, wherein the front and / or rear retaining points are preferably distributed symmetrically, in particular arranged symmetrically along a cross-sectional plane of the receiving means and / or the connecting means. The retaining points can, in particular, be designed in the form of an adjustment mechanism to compensate for wear.

[0020] In order to minimize wear on the parts of a device for regulating an airflow, in particular the elastic elements, it is also conceivable that the receiving means and / or connecting means have limiting means for limiting a working area of ​​the elastic elements, wherein the limiting means preferably have end stop surfaces for limiting a working area, in particular formed in the form of recesses and corresponding projections.

[0021] In order to ensure a substantially constant tension of the closure element even in different opening and closing states, and thus to prevent a possible cause of insufficiently sealed air inlets, it can further be provided that the first and second control elements are shaped in such a way as to compensate for an increase and decrease in the diameter of the guide element caused by the winding and unwinding of the closure element, in order to minimize a difference in web speed during the winding of the closure element and the unwinding of the drive elements, and during the winding of the drive elements and the unwinding of the closure element.

[0022] As part of such compensation for diameter increases and decreases caused by the winding and unwinding of the locking element, it can advantageously be provided that the first and second control elements have varying diameters to compensate for the diameter increases and decreases of the guide element caused by the winding and unwinding of the locking element, wherein the first and second control elements preferably have a barrel-shaped or a frustoconical geometry. A barrel-shaped geometry exhibits an at least partially parabolic cross-section, whereas a frustoconical geometry has, in particular, a linear slope in its cross-section.

[0023] To ensure precisely controllable guidance of the drive elements, in such a design with varying diameter of the control elements it is particularly conceivable that the first and second control elements have a winding spiral for receiving the drive elements, wherein the winding spiral preferably has a constant pitch.

[0024] As an alternative to compensate for diameter changes caused by the winding and unwinding of the locking element, the first and second control elements can have a constant diameter, preferably with a cylindrical geometry. To ensure precise control of the drive elements, in an embodiment with constant diameter control elements, it is particularly conceivable that the first and second control elements have a winding spiral for receiving the drive elements, wherein the winding spiral has a variable pitch to compensate for diameter changes of the guide element caused by the winding and unwinding of the locking element.By adapting the shape and geometry of the control elements, it is particularly possible to use the most suitable geometry for the winding area of ​​the tension material in the respective installation situation. The geometry can depend on various factors, such as the available installation space or additional components.

[0025] In order to ensure the least wear-prone and most flexibly arranged guidance of the drive elements, it can also be provided according to the invention that a first and a second deflection element are provided for deflecting the drive elements, wherein the deflection elements are preferably formed in the form of deflection rollers.

[0026] To achieve a stable arrangement of the individual components and reliable control of the locking element in question, the invention further provides for a frame to accommodate the deflection elements, wherein the frame preferably has two lateral frame parts for guiding the deflection elements and a lower frame part for arranging a finishing strip. The lateral frame parts are preferably detachably connected to the lower frame part, in particular by means of a form-fit or force-fit connection.

[0027] With a view to a simple and compact arrangement as well as a simultaneously precise and effective control of the locking element during an opening and a closing movement, the invention may further provide that the frame is additionally provided to support the locking element, wherein the frame preferably has a grid-like structure to support the locking element.

[0028] To provide a simple, reliable, and cost-effective method for the releasable fixing of a closure element within a device for regulating airflow, the invention may, in particular, provide that the frame and / or the guide element is positively and / or force-fit connected to the closure element, wherein the closure element is preferably releasably connected to the frame and / or the guide element via a clamping connection. In the case of clamping via a clamping connection, a closure element is preferably fixed by generating an increased frictional force.

[0029] With regard to a structurally simple detachable connection between a closure element and a device for regulating an airflow, it is particularly conceivable that a mounting element is provided for connecting the frame and / or the guide element to the closure element, wherein the mounting element preferably has at least one slit-shaped recess for inserting the closure element, and in particular has at least two slit-shaped recesses.

[0030] The mounting element can be multi-part, preferably at least three-part.

[0031] For a simple yet reliable fastening, it is advantageous to provide that the frame and / or the guide element has a longitudinally arranged recess for inserting the locking element and the mounting element. The recess is preferably designed such that, when the locking element is positioned within the recess, it is securely fixed to the frame and / or the guide element together with the mounting element in the direction of load on the locking element. For fastening the locking element to the frame and / or the guide element, the locking element can, for example, be secured by the slot-shaped recess or...The mounting element is inserted and positioned into the slot-shaped recesses before the mounting element, together with the inserted part of the locking element, is laterally inserted into the longitudinally arranged recess of the frame and / or the guide element, so that the locking element is securely fixed to the frame and / or the guide element in the direction of load. For secure fixation, the locking element can also be pushed through two slots and, in a multi-part version of the mounting element, can also be guided past parts of the mounting element on both sides for greater force transmission.

[0032] In this context, for a fastening that is both stable and easy to manufacture, it is conceivable that the recess is wedge-shaped and the mounting element is at least partially shaped to correspond to the wedge-shaped recess in order to prevent the locking element from being pulled out in the direction of the load. The mounting element can preferably also be at least partially wedge-shaped so that it can be positively locked within the recess. In a multi-part design, for example, only individual parts can be wedge-shaped.

[0033] In this context, it is particularly conceivable that the mounting element is formed in three parts, wherein the mounting element has a first cuboid-shaped part and a second and third part that are at least partially shaped to correspond to the recess, wherein the parts are preferably designed and arranged within the recess in such a way that the arrangement of the second and third part forms a gap for the passage of the closure element, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the first cuboid-shaped part, so that the closure element is prevented from being pulled out in the direction of the load on the closure element when the cuboid-shaped part is wrapped with the closure element and the wrapped cuboid-shaped part is arranged in the recess.

[0034] To ensure particularly reliable fixation of the locking element, the mounting element can be provided with a recess for partial insertion of the locking element. This recess preferably includes clip connections for securing the locking element within the recess. In this way, the locking element can be fixed within the mounting element and, for secure fixation, wrapped around the mounting element one or more times before the wrapped portion of the locking element is preferably pushed laterally into the recess of the frame or guide element. The recess can be wedge-shaped or cuboid, and in the cuboid version, it may have a locking projection to prevent the portion of the locking element connected to the mounting element from being dislodged in the direction of force.

[0035] To ensure a drive mechanism for the locking element that is both flexible and easy to integrate structurally, the invention advantageously provides that the first and second drive elements are designed as cables, particularly Bowden cables. A Bowden cable design for the drive elements is particularly suitable for achieving a robust design of the device.

[0036] With a view to a space-saving and compact arrangement as well as an effective and low-wear guidance of the locking element during an opening and a closing movement, it can advantageously be provided within the scope of the invention that the guide element is formed in the form of a winding shaft onto which the locking element can be wound during an opening movement and from which the locking element can be unwound during a closing movement.

[0037] According to the invention, for simple and cost-effective manufacturing, particularly for mass production, the guide element can further be formed in the form of an extruded profile, preferably in the form of an extruded hollow profile. Using conventional extrusion processes, even complex hollow profile structures can be produced in a single step.

[0038] To ensure a simple, compact, and material-saving connection between the guide element and the control elements according to the invention, it is particularly advantageous if the guide element has two recesses arranged on its outer sides for receiving the control elements. These recesses can either be incorporated into the guide element as an extruded profile or created by additional machining of the guide element.

[0039] In addition, as part of a particularly simple type of connection between the guide element and the control elements, it can be provided that the recesses arranged on the outer sides are shaped to correspond to the outer shape of the control elements.

[0040] With a view to a particularly lightweight design of the device according to the invention, it can further be provided that the guide element is made of a lightweight material with a density of less than 3g / cm³. 3 is formed, wherein the lightweight material is in particular an aluminum alloy and / or a plastic.

[0041] With regard to a structurally simple introduction and control of a locking element via two control elements, it can also be advantageously provided according to the invention that the guide element is arranged between the first and second control elements in such a way that the main alignment direction of the guide element is oriented essentially perpendicular to an opening and closing movement of the locking element.

[0042] With a view to a simple and compact arrangement as well as a simultaneously precise and effective control of the locking element during an opening and a closing movement, the invention may further provide that the control elements are connected to the locking element via the drive elements, wherein the connection is preferably designed such that the drive elements are wound up by the control elements during an opening movement and unwound by the control elements during a closing movement.

[0043] To enable remotely controlled opening and closing of a locking element, it is further advantageous to provide a drive element for powering the drive elements. This drive element can preferably be in the form of an actuator, particularly a rotary actuator.

[0044] The invention also relates to a front-end module for a motor vehicle, comprising a device described above for regulating an airflow for a front-end module.

[0045] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising a device described above for regulating an airflow for a front-end module, in particular comprising a front-end module described above for a motor vehicle.

[0046] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description can each be essential to the invention individually or in any combination.

[0047] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a front-end module of a motor vehicle, comprising a device according to the invention for regulating an airflow for a front-end module of a motor vehicle, Fig. 2 A schematic representation of a device according to the invention for regulating an airflow for a front-end module of a motor vehicle in an open state in an exploded view according to a first embodiment, Fig. 3 a schematic representation of a device according to the invention for regulating an airflow for a front-end module of a motor vehicle in a closed form according to a first embodiment, Fig. 4 a schematic representation of an enlarged view of a part of the in Fig. 3 device shown, Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a guide element according to the invention for guiding a closure element in a spatial representation (top) and a sectional representation along a longitudinal direction (bottom) according to a first embodiment, Fig. 6 a schematic representation of a control element according to the invention in the assembled state (top) and in a disassembled state (bottom) according to a first embodiment, Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a control element according to the invention together with a guide element according to the invention in the assembled state (top) and in a disassembled state (bottom) according to a first embodiment, Fig. 8 a schematic representation of a control element according to the invention in a top view of the winding axis according to a first embodiment, Fig. 9 a schematic representation of a first control element with a variable diameter according to a first embodiment, Fig. 10 a schematic representation of a first control element with a variable diameter according to a second embodiment, Fig. 11 a schematic representation of the cross-section of the control elements according to the invention Fig. 9 ( Fig. 11a) and Fig. 10 ( Fig. 11b), Fig. 12 a schematic representation of a first control element with a constant diameter according to a first embodiment, Fig. 13 a schematic representation of a possibility of a positive locking fixation of a locking element according to a first embodiment, Fig. 14 a schematic representation of a possibility of a positive locking fixation of a locking element according to a second embodiment, Fig. 15 a schematic representation of a possibility of a positive locking fixation of a locking element according to a third embodiment, Fig. 16 a schematic representation of a possibility of a positive locking fixation of a locking element according to a fourth embodiment, Fig. 17 a schematic representation of a possibility of a positive locking fixation of a locking element according to a fifth embodiment.

[0048] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a front-end module 1 of a motor vehicle, comprising a device according to the invention for regulating an airflow for a front-end module 1 of a motor vehicle, wherein the device 2 regulates an airflow by closing air inlets 38 of the front-end module 1.

[0049] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic exploded view of a device 2 according to the invention for regulating airflow for a front-end module 1 of a motor vehicle, according to a first embodiment. The device 2 comprises a closing element 4 for closing air inlets 38 of a front-end module of a motor vehicle, a guide element 6 for guiding the closing element 4 during an opening and closing movement, a first and a second control element 8a, 8b for controlling an opening and a closing movement of the closing element 4, and a first and a second drive element 10a, 10b for driving an opening and a closing movement of the closing element 4.Here, the first and second control element 8a, 8b has a (not discernible here) multi-part integrated clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism 12 to compensate for a variable preload of the first and second drive element 10a, 10b in order to ensure a substantially constant tension of the locking element 4.

[0050] The guide element 6 can, in particular, be formed in the form of a winding shaft onto which the closure element 4, which may preferably be in the form of a tear-resistant textile, is wound during an opening movement and from which the closure element 4 is unwound during a closing movement. The guide element 6 is arranged between the first and second control elements 8a, 8b such that the main alignment axis X of the guide element 6 is oriented essentially perpendicular to both the opening and closing movements of the closure element 4.

[0051] The first and second drive elements 10a, 10b are designed in particular in the form of cables, in this case in the form of Bowden cables, with which the locking element 4 can be wound up and unwound.

[0052] According to the present embodiment, the control elements 8a, 8b are preferably connected to the locking element 4 via the drive elements 10a, 10b, so that the drive elements 10a, 10b are wound up by the control elements 8a, 8b during an opening movement and unwound by the control elements 8a, 8b during a closing movement.

[0053] The device 2 further comprises a frame 30 for receiving the deflection elements 20, wherein the frame 30 in this case has two lateral frame parts 31 for guiding the drive elements 10a, 10b and a lower frame part 32 for arranging a finishing strip 34.

[0054] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a device 2 according to the invention for regulating an airflow for a front end module 1 of a motor vehicle in a closed form according to a first embodiment.

[0055] In contrast to the one in Fig. The illustration shown in section 2 is from Fig. 3 in particular the winding spiral 13 for unwinding the drive elements 10a, 10b is recognizable, which is part of the first and second control element 8a, 8b.

[0056] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of an enlarged view of a part of the in Fig. 3 device 2 shown, from which the winding spiral 13 of the second control element 8b can be seen in more detail.

[0057] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a guide element 6 according to the invention for guiding a closure element 4 in a spatial representation (top) and a sectional representation along a longitudinal direction (bottom) according to a first embodiment.

[0058] Out of Fig. 5 It is particularly evident that the first and second control elements 8a, 8b have end-arranged receiving means 14 with a receiving area 14' for receiving the drive elements 10a, 10b, which are identical to each other in this case.

[0059] Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a control element 8b according to the invention in the assembled state (top) and in a disassembled state (bottom) according to a first embodiment.

[0060] According to the disassembled state shown below, it can be seen that the control element 8b according to the invention has an end-arranged receiving means 14 with a receiving area 14' for receiving the drive elements 10a, 10b, a connecting means 16b for connecting the receiving means 14 with the guide element 6, and a clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism 12 arranged between the receiving means 14 and the connecting means 16b, which has an elastic element 18 as well as a front 7 and a rear retaining point 9 for fixing a front and a rear end 18a, 18b of the elastic element 18.The front retaining point 7 is arranged within the receiving means 14 and is designed in the form of an elongated recess for the insertion of the front end 18a of the elastic element 18, whereas the rear retaining point 9 is arranged within the connecting means 16b and is designed in the form of an elongated recess for the insertion of the rear part 18b of the elastic element 18.

[0061] The receiving device 14 also has two further front retaining points 7 to ensure the adjustment of different spring preload forces, which are arranged symmetrically to each other in this case. Furthermore, it is made of Fig. It is evident that the connecting element 16b has a limiting element 17 for insertion into a limiting element 17 arranged within the receiving element 14 in order to limit a working area of ​​the elastic element 18. The limiting element 17 of the connecting element 16b can be formed in the form of a projection, whereas the limiting element of the receiving element can, for example, be formed in the form of a corresponding recess. Finally, the bearing 19, via which the connecting element 16b can be connected to the guide element 6, is also visible.

[0062] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a control element 8b according to the invention together with a guide element 6 according to the invention in the assembled state (top) and in the disassembled state (bottom) according to a first embodiment.

[0063] As per Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the second control element 8b can be connected to the guide element 6 via the extrusion profile arranged within the guide element 6 by means of the bearing 19.

[0064] Fig. Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a control element 8b according to the invention in a top view of the winding axis according to a first embodiment.

[0065] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the front holding points 7 arranged within the receiving means 14 are arranged symmetrically (trigonally planar) to each other, so that the front part 18a of the elastic element 18 can also be arranged in a different holding point 7 in order to generate different spring preload forces.

[0066] Fig. Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of a first control element 8a with a variable diameter according to a first embodiment.

[0067] As per Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the first control element 8a has a barrel-shaped geometry for winding the first drive element 10a, which serves in particular to compensate for an increase and decrease in diameter of the guide element 6 caused by the winding and unwinding of the closure element 4.

[0068] Fig. Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a first control element 8a with a variable diameter according to a second embodiment. According to the present second embodiment, the first control element 8a has a frustoconical geometry to compensate for an increase and decrease in the diameter of the guide element 6 caused by the winding and unwinding of the closure element 4.

[0069] Fig. Figure 11 shows a schematic representation of the cross-section of the control elements according to Fig. 9 ( Fig. 11a) and Fig. 10 ( Fig. 11b).

[0070] According to Fig. 11a shows that the barrel-shaped geometry according to Fig. 9 has a parabolic cross-section opposite the extended axis 11 of the guide element 6, whereas the frustoconical geometry according to Fig. 10 has a linear slope relative to the extended axis 11 of the guide element 6.

[0071] Fig. Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of a first control element 8a with a constant diameter according to a first embodiment.

[0072] The first control element 8a according to Fig. Figure 12 shows a cylindrical geometry and, in contrast to the embodiments according to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. The winding spiral 13 does not have a constant slope, but a variable slope in order to compensate for the increase and decrease in diameter of the guide element 6 caused by the winding and unwinding of the closure element 4.

[0073] Fig. Figure 13 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a possible form-fitting fixing of a locking element 4 according to a first embodiment.

[0074] According to the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, a locking element 4 is fixed within a lower frame section 32 of a frame 30 by means of a three-part mounting element 44. For this purpose, the locking element 4 is inserted into a first and a second slot-shaped recess 48 of the multi-part mounting element 44 before the mounting element 44, together with the inserted part of the locking element 4, is inserted laterally into the longitudinally arranged recess 46 of the lower frame section 32, so that the locking element 4 is securely fixed to the frame 30 in the load direction B of the locking element 4. The recess 46 is wedge-shaped, and the mounting element 44 is shaped to correspond to the wedge shape in order to prevent the locking element 4 from being pulled out in the load direction B of the locking element 4.

[0075] Fig. Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of a possibility for a positive locking fixation of a locking element 4 according to a second embodiment.

[0076] In contrast to the one according to Fig. In the first embodiment shown in 13, the locking element 4 is used as shown in the illustration. Fig. 14 for greater force transmission, passed on both sides of the first and second part of the assembly element 44, which is designed in three parts.

[0077] Fig. Figure 15 shows a cross-sectional view of a possibility for a positive locking fixation of a locking element according to a third embodiment.

[0078] According to the third embodiment, the mounting element 44 is also formed in three parts, comprising a first cuboid part 44a and a second and third part 44b which are at least partially form-corresponding to the recess 46 of the lower frame part 32, wherein the parts 44a, 44b are formed in relation to each other and are arranged within the recess 46 such that the arrangement of the second and third part 44b forms a gap 48 for the passage of the locking element 4, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the first cuboid part 44a, so that the locking element 4 is prevented from being pulled out in the load direction B of the locking element 4 when the cuboid part 44a is wrapped with the locking element 4 and the wrapping cuboid part 44 is arranged in the recess 46.

[0079] Fig. Figure 16 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a possible form-fitting fixation of a locking element 4 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0080] According to the fourth embodiment, the mounting element 44 has a recess 50 for the partial insertion of the locking element 4, which may, for example, additionally include clip connections or the like (not shown). In such an embodiment, the locking element 4 can, for example, be wrapped around the mounting element 44 one or more times for secure fixing before the part of the locking element 4 wrapped with the mounting element 44 is pushed laterally into the recess 46 of the lower frame part 32.

[0081] Fig. Figure 17 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a possible form-fitting fixation of a locking element 4 according to a fifth embodiment.

[0082] According to this fifth embodiment, the longitudinally arranged recess 46 is not wedge-shaped but cuboid and additionally has a locking projection to prevent the insertion of a mounting element 44, which is also cuboid in shape. The mounting element 44 can be, according to the embodiments, Fig. For example, the part of the locking element 4 connected to the mounting element 44 can either be simply wrapped and inserted into a recess 50, or it can be additionally inserted into a recess before the part of the locking element 4 connected to the mounting element 44 is placed laterally in the recess 46. It is also possible to attach the locking element 4 to the mounting element 44 without wrapping the mounting element, simply by inserting it into the recess 50. Reference symbol list 1 Frontend module 2 Device for regulating an airflow 4 locking element 6 Guide element 7 front stopping point 8a first control element 8b second control element 9 rear stopping point 10a first drive element 10b second drive element 11 extended axis of the guide element 12 integrated clamping and tolerance compensation mechanisms 13 winding spiral 14 recording devices 14' recording area 16a first connecting element 16b second connecting element 17 Limiting devices 18 elastic element 18a front part of the elastic element 18b rear part of the elastic element 19 Storage 20 Deflection element 30 frames 31 side frame part 32 lower frame part 34 End strip 38 air intakes 44 Mounting element 44a first cuboid part of the assembly element 44b second and third part of the assembly element 46 longitudinally arranged recesses 48 slit-shaped recess 50 recess B Load direction X Main alignment axis

Claims

[1] Device (2) for regulating an airflow for a front-end module (1) of a motor vehicle, comprising - a closure element (4) for closing air inlets (38) of a front-end module (1) of a motor vehicle, - a guide element (6) for guiding the locking element (4) during an opening and a closing movement of the locking element (4), - a first and a second control element (8a, 8b) for controlling an opening and a closing movement of the locking element (4), - a first and second drive element (10a, 10b) for driving an opening and a closing movement of the locking element (4), wherein the first and second control element (8a, 8b) has a multi-part integrated clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism (12) for compensating a variable preload of the first and second drive element (10a, 10b), wherein the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism (12) has at least one elastic element (18) for compensating a variable preload, wherein the elastic element (18) is formed in the form of a torsion spring, characterized by , that a plurality of front and / or rear mounting points (7, 9) are provided to ensure the adjustment of different spring preload forces. [2] Device (2) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the first and second control elements (8a, 8b) have end-arranged receiving means (14) with a receiving area (14') for receiving the drive elements (10a, 10b). [3] Device (2) according to claim 2, characterized by , that the control elements (8a, 8b) each have a connecting means (16a, 16b) for connecting the receiving means (14) to the guide element (6). [4] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism (12) is operatively connected to the drive elements (10a, 10b). [5] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the spring force of the elastic element (18) is between 28 and 22 N. [6] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the clamping and tolerance compensation mechanism (12) has at least one front (7) and one rear holding point (9) for fixing one front and one rear end (18a, 18b) of the elastic element (18). [7] Device (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized by , that the front holding point (7) is arranged within the receiving means (14). [8] Device (2) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized by , that the rear holding point (9) is arranged within the connecting means (16a, 16b). [9] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the front and / or rear holding points (7, 9) are symmetrically distributed. [10] Device (2) according to any one of claims 3 to 9, characterized by , that the receiving means (14) and / or connecting means (16a, 16b) have limiting means (17) for limiting a working area of ​​the elastic elements (18). [11] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first and second control elements (8a, 8b) are shaped in such a way that an increase and decrease in diameter of the guide element (6) caused by the winding and unwinding of the closure element (4) is compensated in order to minimize a difference in web speed during the winding of the closure element (4) and the unwinding of the drive elements (10a, 10b) and during the winding of the drive elements (10a, 10b) and the unwinding of the closure element (4). [12] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first and second control element (8a, 8b) have a varying diameter to compensate for an increase and decrease in the diameter of the guide element (6) caused by the winding and unwinding of the closure element (4). [13] Device (2) according to claim 12, characterized by, that the first and second control elements (8a, 8b) have a winding spiral (13) for receiving the drive elements (10a, 10b). [14] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first and second control elements (8a, 8b) have a constant diameter. [15] Device (2) according to claim 14, characterized by , that the first and second control elements (8a, 8b) have a winding spiral (13) for receiving the drive elements (10a, 10b), wherein the winding spiral (13) has a variable pitch to compensate for an increase and decrease in diameter of the guide element (6) caused by the winding and unwinding of the locking element (4). [16] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a first and a second deflection element (20) is provided for deflecting the drive elements (10a, 10b). [17] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a frame (30) is provided to accommodate the deflection elements (20). [18] Device (2) according to claim 17, characterized by , that the frame (30) is additionally provided to support the locking element (4). [19] Device (2) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized by , that the frame (30) and / or the guide element (6) is positively and / or force-fit connected to the locking element (4). [20] Device (2) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized by , that a mounting element (44) is provided for connecting the frame (30) and / or the guide element (6) to the locking element (4). [21] Device (2) according to claim 20, characterized by , that the assembly element (44) is formed in multiple parts. [22] Device (2) according to one of claims 20 or 21, characterized by, that the frame (30) and / or the guide element (6) has a longitudinally arranged recess (46) for the insertion of the locking element (4) and the mounting element (44). [23] Device (2) according to claim 22, characterized by , that the recess (46) is wedge-shaped and the mounting element (44) is at least partially shaped to correspond to the wedge-shaped recess in order to prevent the locking element (4) from being pulled out in the direction of load (B) of the locking element (4). [24] Device (2) according to any one of claims 20 to 23, characterized by , that the mounting element (44) is formed in three parts, wherein the mounting element has a first cuboid part (44a) and a second and third part (44b) which are at least partially formed in a shape corresponding to the recess (46). [25] Device (2) according to any one of claims 20 to 24, characterized by, that the mounting element (44) has a recess (50) for the partial insertion of the locking element (4). [26] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first and second drive elements (10a, 10b) are designed in the form of cable pulls. [27] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guide element (6) is formed in the form of a winding shaft onto which the locking element (4) can be wound during an opening movement and from which the locking element (4) can be unwound during a closing movement. [28] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guide element (6) is formed in the form of an extruded profile. [29] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the guide element (6) has two recesses arranged on the outer sides for receiving the control elements (8a, 8b). [30] Device (2) according to claim 29, characterized by , that the recesses arranged on the outer sides are shaped to correspond to the outer shape of the control elements (8a, 8b). [31] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guide element (6) is made of a lightweight material with a density of less than 3 g / cm³ 3 is educated. [32] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the guide element (6) is arranged between the first and second control elements (8a, 8b) such that the main alignment axis (X) of the guide element (6) is oriented substantially perpendicular to an opening and closing movement of the locking element (4). [33] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the control elements (8a, 8b) are connected to the locking element (4) via the drive elements (10a, 10b). [34] Device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a drive means is provided for driving the drive elements (10a, 10b). [35] Front end module (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising a device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 34. [36] Motor vehicle comprising a device (2) for regulating an airflow for a front end module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 34.

Citation Information

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