Roller blind system for a motor vehicle and method for manufacturing a roller blind system

Abstract

Roller blind system (16) for covering a roof opening (12) of a motor vehicle, comprising a flat roller blind body (20) and at least one guide strip (22) made of plastic, which extends along an edge of the roller blind body (20), characterized in that the guide strip (22) is provided with two or more electrical conductors (34a, 34b, 34c), wherein the two or more electrical conductors (34a, 34b, 34c) are independent of each other.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a roller blind system for a motor vehicle, comprising a flat roller blind body and at least one guide strip made of plastic. The guide strip extends along an edge of the roller blind body.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing a roller blind system for a motor vehicle.

[0003] Such roller blind systems and methods for their manufacture are known from the prior art.

[0004] Both manually operated roller blind systems, where the flat roller blind body is extended and retracted by hand, and electrically operated roller blind systems, which include an electric drive motor that serves to extend and retract the flat roller blind body, are common.

[0005] The trend toward functional integration, widespread in the automotive sector, has also extended to roller blind systems. In this context, roller blind systems are evolving into complex functional units that, in addition to their classic or standard function, also perform tasks such as lighting. However, this makes roller blind systems more complex to manufacture, leading to increased production costs. Consequently, there is a conflict of objectives between providing additional functions beyond the basic roller blind function and the effort required to manufacture the roller blind system.

[0006] The object of the invention is therefore to resolve or at least mitigate this conflict of objectives. The aim is to provide a roller blind system into which additional functions, meaning functions that go beyond the pure roller blind function, can be easily integrated. At the same time, the roller blind system should be easy and inexpensive to manufacture.

[0007] The problem is solved by a roller blind system of the type mentioned above, in which the guide tape is equipped with at least one electrical conductor. Such a conductor can be used to supply any electrical devices, which can be used for the functions of the roller blind system itself and / or for additional functions. An example of an additional function is lighting. Since the guide tape is made of plastic, as is typical, the electrical conductor can be attached to it simply and cost-effectively. Consequently, a high degree of functional versatility achievable with the roller blind system is combined with low manufacturing costs.

[0008] The electrical conductor preferably runs essentially along the guide belt. The electrical conductor is therefore oriented essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the guide belt. This allows the electrical conductor to be integrated into the guide belt in a space-saving manner.

[0009] Preferably, the flat roller blind body is welded or glued to the plastic guide strip. This allows for simple and cost-effective manufacturing of the roller blind system.

[0010] The guide belt can be equipped with two or more electrical conductors. In particular, the electrical conductors run essentially parallel. The two or more electrical conductors can be independent of each other and, in this context, can be assigned to different functional units. It is also possible to replace a multi-core cable assigned to a single functional unit with the two or more electrical conductors. In the simplest case, one conductor can carry a positive terminal and another a negative terminal. In this way, a virtually unlimited number of functional units can be electrically connected and thus supplied with electrical energy.

[0011] Preferably, the electrical conductor(s) is / are fully or partially embedded in the guide tape. Full embedding means that a cross-section of the conductor is completely enclosed by the plastic forming the guide tape. Partial embedding occurs when a cross-section of the conductor is only partially enclosed by the plastic forming the guide tape. Thus, a portion of the electrical conductor lies wholly or partially within the guide tape. This results in a comparatively small space requirement for the electrical conductor and, consequently, for the guide tape itself. Furthermore, the plastic from which the guide tape is made can act as electrical insulation for the electrical conductor, at least in certain sections. This also contributes to a smaller installation space requirement.

[0012] Alternatively, the electrical conductor(s) can run along a surface of the guide belt. In particular, the electrical conductor(s) can be attached to the surface. This method also allows for the simple and cost-effective integration of electrical conductors into plastic guide belts. The electrical conductor(s) can, for example, be glued to the surface. Optionally, electrical conductors located on the surface of the guide belt can be electrically insulated from the environment by means of an insulating layer or an insulating varnish.

[0013] According to one variant, the electrical conductor(s) are printed onto the surface of the guide belt. This allows for simple and cost-effective application of the electrical conductors to the surface. Furthermore, this method makes it possible to apply electrical conductors to the surface in a variety of ways.

[0014] The roller blind system can include a lighting unit, which is electrically connected to the electrical wiring. This lighting unit can be either ambient or functional lighting. Furthermore, the lighting unit can be located on virtually any part of the roller blind system. For example, the lighting unit could include one or more LEDs integrated into the flat roller blind body. It is also possible to position the lighting unit in the frame. From there, it can serve, for example, as entry lighting or reading lighting. At each of these installation locations, the lighting unit can be easily and reliably supplied with electrical power by connecting it to the electrical wiring.The roller blind system thus has an additional function provided by the lighting unit, yet it is simple and inexpensive to manufacture.

[0015] Alternatively or additionally, the roller blind system includes a sensor unit, which is electrically connected to the electrical line(s). The sensor unit can also be located in any part of the roller blind system. It can include a light sensor that detects light exposure. Based on this sensor reading, the roller blind can then be moved, i.e., extended or retracted. Another embodiment of the sensor unit is designed as an anti-pinch device. In this case, the sensor unit is preferably located in the frame. Regardless of its installation location, the sensor unit can be easily and reliably supplied with electrical power by connecting it to the electrical line. The roller blind system thus has an additional function provided by the sensor unit.Nevertheless, it can be produced easily and inexpensively.

[0016] Furthermore, the problem is solved by a method for manufacturing a roller blind system for a motor vehicle, which includes the following steps: a) Manufacturing at least one plastic guide belt which is equipped with at least one electrical conductor, and b) Attaching the guide tape to an edge of a flat roller blind body.

[0017] In this context, the guide tape is attached to the roller blind body, primarily by means of a welding or adhesive bonding process. Manufacturing the guide tape from plastic and equipping it with an electrical conductor is simple and inexpensive.

[0018] Preferably, the guide belt is manufactured using an extrusion process, whereby the electrical conductor is fully or partially embedded in the guide belt by means of this extrusion process. In other words, the electrical conductor is extruded into or onto the guide belt. In this context, the electrical conductor can be processed as a roll material. This is particularly simple and cost-effective. In particular, embedding the electrical conductor during the extrusion process is especially well-suited for mass and series production. Such a process can be fully automated.

[0019] The electrical conductor can also be printed onto the guide belt. As already explained, electrical conductors in a wide variety of designs can be applied to the guide belt using a printing process. This process can be fully automated, making it well-suited for mass and series production.

[0020] Furthermore, the electrical conductor can be electrically connected to an electrical component. In particular, a section of the electrical conductor is stripped beforehand. For example, the electrical component could be a lighting unit or a sensor unit. If the electrical conductor is embedded or extruded, the plastic sheathing around the conductor is locally removed. This results in a simple and cost-effective roller blind system equipped with electrical components that perform additional functions.

[0021] The invention is explained below with reference to various embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. These show: - Fig. 1 a roller blind system according to a first embodiment, which was manufactured using a method according to the invention, - Fig. 2 the roller blind system Fig. 1 along a section II-II, - Fig. 3 a roller blind system according to a second embodiment in one of the Fig. 2 corresponding view, - Fig. 4 a roller blind system according to a third embodiment in one of the Fig. 2 corresponding views, and - Fig. 5 a roller blind system according to a fourth embodiment in one of the Fig. 2 corresponding views.

[0022] In Fig. 1 is schematically a vehicle roof 10 with a roof opening 12to see, which is achieved by means of a sliding lid. 14 A sunroof system that can be optionally closed or opened. Such sunroof systems are well-known and therefore will not be discussed further here.

[0023] Below the lid 14 is a roller blind system 16 positioned, the two schematically indicated guide rails 18 exhibits features that extend along a longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0024] Furthermore, the roller blind system includes 16 a roller blind body 20 , which has an essentially rectangular shape, as well as two guide bands 22 made of plastic, extending along two parallel side edges of the roller blind body 20 extend.

[0025] The two guide belts 22 are in their respective assigned guide rails 18 absorbed in such a way that the roller blind body 20It is mounted in a movable position.

[0026] The roller blind system 16 , more precisely, the roller blind body 20 , thus, when fully extended, it covers the roof opening. 12 essentially completely.

[0027] To the roof opening 12 To release, the roller blind body can 20 to be shifted backwards, whereby it then forms a coil that is only schematically represented. 24 rolls up.

[0028] Covering and uncovering the roof opening 12 can be considered a classic or actual function of the roller blind system 16 be designated.

[0029] The roller blind system shown 16 However, it also includes other, additional functions.

[0030] It includes a first lighting unit. 26 , which are in the roller blind body 20is integrated and serves to illuminate the interior of a motor vehicle, for example in the form of so-called ambient lighting.

[0031] Furthermore, the roller blind system 16 with a second lighting unit 28 equipped with lighting elements 28a , 28b encompasses and into a bow 30 is integrated. The second lighting unit 28 It serves as a reading light or as entry lighting.

[0032] Furthermore, a sensor unit 32 provided, which are also in the bows 30 is integrated. The sensor unit 32 It serves to detect obstacles when extending the roller blind body. 20 and thus provides pinch protection.

[0033] The first lighting unit includes 26 , the second lighting unit 28 and the sensor unit 32 electrical consumers.

[0034] These are each connected via an assigned electrical line. 34a , 34b , 34c supplied with electrical energy. The electrical appliances are therefore electrically connected to their respective electrical lines. 34a , 34b , 34c tied together.

[0035] In a first embodiment, which is in Fig. As shown in 2, the electrical lines 34a , 34b , 34c completely into the guide belt 22 embedded.

[0036] Based on this, the first lighting unit 26 via a connecting line 36a , which pass through the roller blind body 20 runs electrically with the line 34a connected (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 2).

[0037] The second lighting unit 28 is via a connecting line 36b with the management 34belectrically connected. The connecting cable 36b runs through the roller blind body in sections 20 and section by section through the bow 30 .

[0038] The same applies to the sensor unit. 32 This is connected via a service line. 36c with the management 34c electrically connected. The connecting cable 36c runs through the roller blind body in sections 20 and section by section through the bow 30 .

[0039] A second embodiment of the roller blind system 16 is in Fig. 3 shown.

[0040] The second embodiment differs only in terms of the embedding of the electrical conductors. 34a , 34b , 34c from the first embodiment. Only these differences will be discussed below. For further details, please refer to the preceding explanations.

[0041] In the second embodiment, the electrical wires 34a , 34b , 34c only partially into the guide belt 22 embedded. This means that a circumferential section of each of the lines 34a , 34b , 34c not from the guide belt 22 is surrounded by forming plastic.

[0042] These sections of the pipes 34a , 34b , 34c are electrically insulated from their environment by means of an insulating varnish which is not shown in detail.

[0043] The roller blind system 16 It can also be designed according to a third embodiment, which is described in the Fig. Figure 4 illustrates this. Again, only the differences from the two aforementioned embodiments are discussed. For further details, please refer to the preceding explanations.

[0044] The lines 34a , 34b , 34cIn the third embodiment, they are on a surface 22a of the guide belt 22 printed on. They therefore run on the surface. 22a and are attached to the surface because the material of the pipes 34a , 34b , 34c exhibits certain adhesion properties, i.e., on the surface 22a sticks.

[0045] The lines are involved. 34a , 34b , 34c on their guide belt 22 opposite side with an insulating layer 38 excessive.

[0046] The roller blind system can also be used 16 according to a fourth embodiment, which is described in the Fig. Figure 5 is shown. Again, only the differences from the aforementioned embodiments are discussed. For further details, please refer to the explanations of the first three embodiments.

[0047] In the fourth embodiment, the lines34a , 34b , 34c back onto a surface 22a of the guide belt 22 printed on it. However, this surface 22a compared to the third embodiment (see Fig. 4) on the opposite side of the guide belt 22 arranged.

[0048] The surface falls. 22a , where the lines 34a , 34b , 34c are intended to be in conjunction with the surface to which the roller blind body is attached. 20 is connected to the guide belt.

[0049] The roller blind body 20 is with the guide belt 22 glued together.

[0050] Furthermore, the roller blind body 20 so on the guide belt 22 attached so that he could secure the lines 34a , 34b , 34c on one of the guide belts 22 The far side is completely covered. This serves to conceal the cables. 34a , 34b ,34c covering section of the roller blind body 20 also to the lines 34a , 34b , 34c to electrically insulate against its surroundings. The roller blind body 20 It therefore forms an insulating layer, at least in this section.

[0051] In one variant of the fourth embodiment, the printed lines are replaced by... 34a , 34b , 34c partially into the guide belt 22 embedded lines 34a , 34b , 34c used, which are already in connection with the second embodiment (see Fig. 3) explained. In this variant, too, a section of the roller blind body can be used. 20 serve as electrical insulation.

[0052] In all the described embodiments, the position of the electrical conductors is 34a , 34b , 34cThis is to be understood as an example. Of course, the electrical wiring can be... 34a , 34b , 34c also elsewhere, wholly or partially into the guide belt 22 be embedded or located elsewhere on a surface of the guide belt 22 be planned.

[0053] The roller blind system 16 is produced as follows.

[0054] If the roller blind system 16 In accordance with the first or second embodiment, the guide belt is first extruded. 22 Made of plastic, with the electrical wires 34a , 34b , 34c by means of the extrusion process completely (see first embodiment according to Fig. 2) or partially (see second embodiment according to Fig. 3) into the guide belt 22 be embedded.

[0055] Then the guide belt 22with the embedded lines 34a , 34b , 34c at one edge of the flat roller blind body 20 attached.

[0056] To the lines 34a , 34b , 34c with their respective connecting cables 36a , 36b , 36c To connect them electrically, the wires are 34a , 34b , 34c in the relevant sections, i.e. locally, insulated.

[0057] Consequently, the electrical wires 34a , 34b , 34c with their respective associated electrical components, i.e., with the first lighting unit 26 , the second lighting unit 28 or the sensor unit 32 be electrically connected.

[0058] If the roller blind system 16 is designed according to the third embodiment (see Fig. 4) the guide belt 22made of plastic and the electrical wires 34a , 34b , 34c are placed on the guide belt 22 printed.

[0059] Following this, the lines will be 34a , 34b , 34c with their respective connecting cables 36a , 36b , 36c electrically connected, so that the lines 34a , 34b , 34c are electrically connected to their respective electrical components.

[0060] All of the above embodiments of the roller blind system 16 include a first lighting unit 26 , a second lighting unit 28 and a sensor unit 32 The explanations always refer to only one of the guide bands. 22 (see section II-II in Fig. 1).

[0061] It goes without saying that, alternatively or additionally, the other of the guide bands can be used.22 can be trained according to the above explanations.

[0062] In addition, the roller blind system can 16 They may also have only one or two additional functions, i.e., only one or two from the first lighting unit. 26 , the second lighting unit 28 and the sensor unit 32 include.

Claims

[1] Roller blind system (16) for a motor vehicle, comprising a flat roller blind body (20) and at least one guide strip (22) made of plastic, which extends along an edge of the roller blind body (20), characterized by that the guide band (22) is provided with at least one electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c). [2] Roller blind system (16) according to claim 1, characterized by that the guide strip (22) is provided with two or more electrical lines (34a, 34b, 34c). [3] Roller blind system (16) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) or the electrical lines (34a, 34b, 34c) is or are completely or partially embedded in the guide strip (22). [4] Roller blind system (16) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) or the electrical lines (34a, 34b, 34c) run or run on a surface (22a) of the guide strip (22), in particular is or are fastened to the surface (22a). [5] Roller blind system (16) according to claim 4, characterized by that the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) or the electrical lines (34a, 34b, 34c) is or are printed on the surface (22a) of the guide strip (22). [6] Roller blind system (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a lighting unit (26, 28), wherein the lighting unit (26, 28) is electrically connected to the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) or the electrical lines (34a, 34b, 34c). [7] Roller blind system (16) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bya sensor unit (32), wherein the sensor unit (32) is electrically connected to the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) or the electrical lines (34a, 34b, 34c). [8] Method for producing a roller blind system (16) for a motor vehicle, comprising the following steps: a) producing at least one guide strip (22) made of plastic, which is provided with at least one electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c), and b) Fastening the guide strip (22) to an edge of a flat roller blind body (20). [9] Method according to claim 8, characterized by that the guide strip (22) is produced by means of an extrusion process, wherein the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) is completely or partially embedded in the guide strip (22) by means of the extrusion process. [10] Method according to claim 8, characterized by that the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) is printed onto the guide strip (22). [11] Method according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by that the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) is electrically connected to an electrical component, in particular wherein a section of the electrical line (34a, 34b, 34c) is previously stripped.

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