Protective device for a window opening of a motor vehicle

Abstract

Protective device (2, 2') for a window opening (3, 4) of a motor vehicle, comprising a window pane (5) which is linearly displaceable between a closed position, in which the window pane (5) closes the window opening (3, 4), and an open position, in which the window opening (3, 4) is open, at least one shading structure (6) which is linearly displaceable between a shading position in which the shading structure (6) shades the window opening (3, 4) and a release position in which the shading structure (6) releases the window opening (3, 4), and comprising a cable drive system (7) which is designed for the driven displacement of the window pane (5) and / or the shading structure (6) and has a drive (9) and a cable strand (10) which is movable by means of the drive (9) and laid along a laying path (V), wherein a mechanical coupling arrangement (8) is provided which, depending on the position of the window pane (5), the position of the shading structure (6) and the movement of the cable strand (10), can be transferred between a first coupling state, in which the shading structure (6) is coupled to the cable strand (10) for driven displacement and the window pane (5) is decoupled from the cable strand (10), and a second coupling state, in which the shading structure (6) is decoupled from the cable strand (10) and the window pane (5) is coupled to the cable strand (10) for driven displacement, wherein the coupling arrangement (8) has a first coupling device (11, 11') connected to the shading structure (6) and a second coupling device (12) connected to the window pane (5), which are each linearly guided on a guide rail arrangement (15, 16), wherein the first and the second coupling device (11, 11', 12) in the respective coupling state interact in a force- and movement-transmitting, releasably form-fitting manner with at least one driver element (13, 14) which is connected to the cable strand (10), characterized in that the laying path (V) of the cable strand (10) has at least one first bend (C1) formed by means of a first deflection roller (22) and a second bend (C2) formed by means of a second deflection roller (18), wherein the coupling and uncoupling of the first coupling device (11, 11') takes place in the region of the first bend (C1), and wherein the coupling and uncoupling of the second coupling device (12) takes place in the region of the second bend (C2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a protective device for a window opening of a motor vehicle having the preamble features of claim 1.

[0002] From DE 10 2005 012 208 A1 a protective device with the generic features of claim 1 is known.

[0003] Another protective device is known from DE 10 2006 037 594 A1 and is intended for a side window opening of a passenger car. The known protective device has a movable window pane for opening and closing the side window opening. In addition, the known protective device has a shading structure in the form of a roller blind that can be wound up and unwound on a winding shaft. In a shading position, unwound from the winding shaft, the roller blind shades the side window opening. In a release position, rolled up on the winding shaft, the roller blind uncovers the side window opening. Furthermore, the known protective device has a cable drive system with a drive and a cable strand that is movable by means of the drive. The cable drive system forms a window lifter for moving the window pane and thus for opening and closing the side window opening.The known safety device generally provides for manual movement of the roller blind between the shading and release positions. A semi-automatic movement from the shading to the release position is also possible. This semi-automatic movement of the roller blind is achieved via a drive element connected to the drive of the cable drive system. This drive element is separate from the cable strand and designed as a type of Bowden cable.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a protective device of the type mentioned above, which has a simple structure and enables a simple and reliable drive movement of the window pane and the shading structure.

[0005] This object is achieved by providing a protective device having the features of claim 1. The solution according to the invention enables a "fully automatic" driven movement of the shading structure between the shading and release positions, while simultaneously achieving or at least maintaining the simplest possible design of the cable drive system. For the fully automatic driven movement of the shading structure, in particular, an additional drive, an additional cable strand, or the like is not required. Instead, the cable drive system serves as a joint drive for the window pane and the shading structure, with the window pane and the shading structure being coupled to the cable strand for certain periods of time and / or decoupled from it for certain periods of time.In other words, the window pane and the shading structure are alternately releasably connected to and detached from the cable strand. For this purpose, the mechanical coupling arrangement is provided according to the invention. The mechanical coupling arrangement can be transferred between the first coupling state and the second coupling state. In the first coupling state, the cable drive system drives, preferably exclusively, the window pane. In the second coupling state, the cable drive system drives, preferably exclusively, the shading structure. The mechanical coupling arrangement is preferably designed for the releasable non-positive and / or positive coupling of the window pane and the shading structure, each to the cable strand. The transfer between the first and second coupling states can also be understood as a switching process or coupling process.The transfer of the mechanical coupling arrangement between the first and second coupling states occurs depending on whether the window pane assumes its closed or open position, the shading structure assumes its shading or release position, and depending on the movement, in particular the direction of movement, of the cable strand. The transfer occurs automatically and / or is mechanically controlled. The cable strand is movable by means of the drive, wherein the movement is preferably possible in a first drive direction and in an opposite second drive direction, each along the installation path. Preferably, a movement along the first drive direction causes the window opening to be closed and / or shaded, and a movement in the opposite second drive direction causes the window opening to be released and / or opened.Preferably, a guide rail arrangement is provided for the linear guidance of the window pane and / or the shading structure. The linear guidance of the window pane and the shading structure preferably takes place along parallel guide directions. The shading structure is preferably designed as a flexible sheet, for example, as a roller blind or Venetian blind, or as a dimensionally stable light-protection panel.Further preferably, the coupling arrangement is designed such that the first coupling state is assumed when the shading structure is displaced between its shading and release positions and is canceled when the cable strand moves beyond the release position to move the window pane into the opening position, and that the second coupling state is assumed when the window pane is displaced between its opening and closing positions and is canceled when the cable strand moves beyond the closing position to move the shading structure into the shading position.

[0006] According to the invention, the coupling arrangement comprises a first coupling device connected to the shading structure and a second coupling device connected to the window pane, each of which is linearly guided on a guide rail arrangement, wherein the first and second coupling devices, in the respective coupled state, releasably interact in a form-fitting manner with at least one driver element connected to the cable strand, transmitting force and movement. This results in a particularly simple and robust construction of the mechanical coupling arrangement. The connection of the first coupling device to the shading structure is independent of the respective coupling state. The same applies analogously with regard to the connection between the second coupling device and the window pane and the connection between the at least one driver element and the cable strand.In the first coupling state, the at least one driver element cooperates with the first coupling device for transmitting force and movement. In the second coupling state, the at least one driver element cooperates accordingly with the second coupling device. The at least one driver element can thus cooperate alternately with the first or the second coupling device. Preferably, a further driver element is connected to the cable strand, so that one can speak of a first and a second driver element. In this case, the first driver element can be assigned to the first coupling device and the second driver element to the second coupling device.In such a configuration, it can be provided that, upon transition from the first coupling state to the second coupling state, the first driver element disengages from the first coupling device and the second driver element engages with the second coupling device. The same applies conversely upon transition from the second coupling state to the first coupling state.

[0007] Furthermore, according to the invention, the laying path of the cable strand has at least one first bend formed by a first deflection pulley and a second bend formed by a second deflection pulley, wherein the coupling and decoupling of the first coupling device takes place in the region of the first bend, and wherein the coupling and decoupling of the second coupling device takes place in the region of the second bend. In the region of the respective bend, the laying path of the cable strand has a directional deflection of greater than 90°, preferably between 130° and 180°, particularly preferably 180°. If the driver element moves in the region of one of the two bends due to the drive movement of the cable strand, it experiences a corresponding directional deflection. This directional reversal or deflection allows for particularly simple and robust coupling and decoupling of the respective coupling device.

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the first coupling device and / or the second coupling device each have a carriage unit that is linearly guided on the guide rail arrangement and has a driver profile that is designed for releasably form-fitting interaction with the at least one driver element. The carriage unit is preferably slidably guided linearly on the guide rail arrangement. In a ready-to-use state, the guide rail arrangement is preferably integrated into a door module of the motor vehicle and arranged below a sill of the window opening. If both coupling devices have a carriage unit, they can also be referred to as a first carriage unit and a second carriage unit. The guide rail arrangement is preferably longitudinally extended in the vertical direction of the vehicle and / or in a vertical direction of the window opening.In the coupled state, the driver profile interacts with the at least one driver element. The driver profile is preferably designed as a slot, groove, web, or the like. Further preferably, the guide rail arrangement comprises a first guide rail associated with the first coupling device and a second guide rail associated with the second coupling device. Preferably, the first and second guide rails extend longitudinally parallel to one another. Further preferably, the closing, opening, shading, and release positions correspond to different end positions of the respective coupling device and / or slide unit in the region of a lower and / or upper end face of the respective guide rail.

[0009] In a further embodiment of the invention, the driver profile is designed as a driver slot that is open on one side, into which the at least one driver element enters for coupling and is held in a form-fitting manner, and from which the driver element exits for decoupling. This ensures simple and robust coupling and decoupling. At the same time, unintentional decoupling is counteracted. If the coupling and decoupling according to one of the preceding embodiments takes place in the region of a bend in the installation path, the driver slot that is open on one side is preferably longitudinally extended at least in sections parallel to the bend. In other words, the driver slot in this case is preferably longitudinally curved, angled, bent, or the like at least in sections.The driver slot is open on one side and has an inlet opening into which the at least one driver element enters the driver slot for coupling. During uncoupling, the driver element exits the driver slot through the inlet opening.

[0010] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first coupling device and / or the second coupling device each has a locking unit, by means of which the respective coupling device can be releasably locked to the guide rail arrangement in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner under the controlling action of the driver element. The locking unit counteracts any unintentional displacement of the first coupling device and thus the shading structure and / or the second coupling device and thus the window pane. If both coupling devices each have a locking unit, one can also speak of a first locking unit and a second locking unit. In this embodiment of the invention, the at least one driver element has a particularly advantageous multiple function. On the one hand, the at least one driver element serves to alternately couple and / or drive the window pane and the shading structure.Secondly, the at least one driver element simultaneously serves as a control element for transferring the locking unit between a locking state and a release state. In the locking state, the respective coupling device is locked to the guide rail arrangement by means of the respective locking unit and is thus immobile. In the release state, the locking unit enables the mobility of the respective coupling device along the guide rail arrangement. Preferably, the at least one driver element controls the locking such that the window pane can be releasably locked in the closed and / or opened position, and such that the shading structure can be releasably locked in its shading and / or release position.

[0011] In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking unit has a locking element that can be moved between a locked state and a released state, with a control profile, with which the at least one driver element cooperates to move the locking element between the locked state and the released state. The locking element cooperates with the guide rail arrangement for the purpose of locking. Preferably, the locking element can be moved linearly, pivotally, and / or rotationally between the locked and released states. The displacement movement preferably occurs relative to the respective coupling device, in particular its carriage unit, if one is present. For cooperation with the at least one driver element, the locking element has the control profile, which can be designed in particular as a slot, groove, web, or the like.

[0012] In a further embodiment of the invention, the locking element is a rotary wheel rotatable about a rotational axis, in particular mounted on the respective carriage unit, having a locking profile which, for locking, releasably engages with a front end of the guide rail arrangement in a form-fitting manner. The rotational axis is preferably oriented perpendicular to a guide direction of the respective coupling device extending along the guide rail arrangement. The rotary wheel is rotatably displaceable relative to the other components and / or sections of the respective coupling device, in particular its carriage unit. For the purpose of form-fitting locking, the locking profile of the rotary wheel engages with the front end of the guide rail arrangement. The locking profile is preferably formed on a radially outer edge region of the rotary wheel. The locking profile can be designed in particular as a groove, slot, web or the like.Preferably, the front end of the guide rail arrangement has a profile complementary to the locking profile.

[0013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the control profiling is designed as a control slot on the locking element that is open on one side and / or the control profiling and the driver profiling are arranged to overlap one another at least in sections, forming a link arrangement for controlling the movement of the locking element. To control the displacement movement of the locking element between the locking and the release state, the at least one driver element enters the control slot that is open on one side. In other words, the control slot that is open on one side preferably acts as a control link for controlling the locking unit. The link arrangement formed by the at least partially overlapping arrangement of the control and driver profiling enables, in particular, improved and particularly precise control of the locking unit between the locking and the release state.

[0014] In a further embodiment of the invention, at least one further shading structure is provided and connected to a further cable strand of the cable drive system, wherein the further shading structure is assigned to a secondary section of the window opening, and wherein the further cable strand is connected to the first coupling device, whereby a towed forced movement of the further shading structure is achieved as a function of the displacement movement of the shading structure. In this embodiment of the invention, the shading structure can also be referred to as the main shading structure and the further shading structure as the secondary shading structure. The further shading structure serves to shade a secondary section of the window opening, for example, a triangular section in the region of a C-pillar of the motor vehicle in the broadest sense. In contrast to the cable strand, the further cable strand cannot be driven directly by the drive.Instead, the additional cable strand is connected to the first coupling device for forced, towed movement. This embodiment of the invention makes it possible to achieve shading of the window opening over as large an area as possible and, at the same time, a "fully automatic" drive of the two shading structures required for this purpose that is as simple as possible. The additional shading structure is linearly guided and can be moved between a shading position, in which the shading structure shades the adjacent section of the window opening, and a release position, in which the additional shading structure releases the adjacent section of the window opening. Preferably, the additional shading structure is linearly guided on the guide rail arrangement. The guide rail arrangement preferably has a guide rail assigned to the additional shading structure, which is longitudinally extended along a further guide direction.The further guide direction of the secondary shading structure is preferably oriented obliquely to a guide direction assigned to the main shading structure.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the shading structure is a dimensionally stable light-protection panel that is comparatively less translucent than the window pane and / or is at least predominantly, particularly preferably completely, opaque. The inventors have recognized that designing the shading structure as a dimensionally stable light-protection panel is associated with numerous advantages. These include, in particular, improved protection against damage and structurally simple adaptability to the contour of the window opening to be shaded. This is particularly true when compared to shading structures in the form of a flexible sheet, such as a roller blind. The dimensionally stable light-protection panel preferably has an outer contour that at least largely corresponds to the outer contour of the window pane.The dimensionally stable light protection screen can be made of a glass or plastic material with opaque properties tailored to the desired shading and / or darkening.

[0016] The invention also relates to a coupling arrangement for a protective device according to the preceding description, comprising at least a first coupling device and a second coupling device, each with a carriage unit, which is configured for slidable linear guidance on a guide rail arrangement and has a driver profile for releasably positively engaging with a driver element of a cable drive system, wherein the first coupling device and / or the second coupling device each have a locking unit, by means of which the respective coupling device can be releasably locked in a positive and / or non-positive manner on the guide rail arrangement under the controlling action of the driver element. Features of the mechanical coupling arrangement of the protective device according to the invention and its embodiments can be features of the coupling arrangement according to the invention and / or vice versa.With regard to the advantages associated with the coupling arrangement according to the invention, reference is made to the preceding description in order to avoid repetition.

[0017] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle door with a protective device according to the preceding description. The protective device is preferably arranged below a parapet of a window opening of the motor vehicle door. The motor vehicle door preferably has an inner panel facing the interior of the motor vehicle and an outer door skin facing the surroundings, which forms a portion of the body of the motor vehicle. The protective device is mounted in a space formed between the outer door skin and the inner panel.

[0018] Further advantages and features of the invention emerge from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which are illustrated with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a motor vehicle door according to the invention for a passenger car, which is provided with an embodiment of a protective device according to the invention, Fig. 2 a schematic external view of the protective device according to Fig. 1, Fig. 3 a perspective external view of the protective device according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 with a window pane and a shading structure hidden in the drawing and with a graphical indication of a guide rail arrangement of the protective device, Fig. 4 a schematic internal view of the protective device according to the Fig. 1 to 3, Fig. 5 a perspective inside view of the protective device according to the Fig. 1 to 4 with the window pane and the shading structure hidden in the drawing and with the guide rail arrangement indicated in the drawing, Fig. 6 in perspective exploded view a detail of the protective device according to the Fig. 1 to 5 in the area of ​​a coupling device assigned to the window pane, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 schematic exterior views of the Fig. 6 shown part of the protective device in different states, Fig. 10 in one with Fig. 2 corresponding representation a variant of the protective device according to the Fig. 1 to 9, comprising a further shading structure, Fig. 11 the protective device according to Fig. 10 with the window pane, the shading structure and the other shading structures hidden in the drawing, Fig. 12 the protective device according to Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 in one with Fig. 4 corresponding representation and Fig. 13 the protective device according to Fig. 10 to 12 in one with Fig. 12 corresponding interior view and with the window pane, the shading structure and the other shading structure hidden in the drawing.

[0019] According to Fig. 1, a motor vehicle door 1 is provided in the form of a rear side door for a passenger car (not shown in detail) and is equipped with a protective device 2. The protective device 2 is shown in detail in the Fig. 2 to 9 and is assigned to a window opening 3, 4 of the motor vehicle door 1. In the embodiment shown, the window opening 3, 4 has a main opening 3 and a secondary opening 4. The motor vehicle door 1 has a supporting structure T, which forms a component of the body of the passenger car. The supporting structure T has a design and function that are generally known to those skilled in the art, so that further explanations in this regard are unnecessary.

[0020] The protective device 2 comprises a window pane 5, a shading structure 6, a cable drive system 7 and a mechanical coupling arrangement 8.

[0021] The window pane 5 can also be referred to as a side window, more precisely: rear side window, and is movable between a closed position and an open position by means of the cable drive system 7. In the closed position, the window pane 5 closes the window opening 3, 4, more precisely: the main opening 3 of the window opening 3, 4. In the open position, the window pane 5 releases the window opening 3, 4 in the area of ​​the main opening 3. The secondary opening 4, which can also be referred to as a triangular window, is usually closed with a fixed glazing (not shown in detail) that cannot be opened. The closed position is determined by the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and 4. In the open position, the window pane 5 is lowered downward along a vehicle vertical direction Z in a generally known manner, so that an unspecified upper edge of the window pane 5 is located approximately in the region of a parapet of the window opening 3, 4. The opening position is not shown in detail in the drawing here. Furthermore, the window pane 5 is manufactured from a transparent glass or plastic material in a manner known to those skilled in the art.

[0022] The shading structure 6 is displaceable between a shading position and a release position by means of the cable drive system 7. In the release position, the shading structure 6 releases the window opening 3, 4 closed by the window pane 5 in the area of ​​its main opening 3. The release position is defined in the present case by means of the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 and 4. In the release position, the shading structure 6 is arranged along the vehicle vertical direction Z below the parapet of the window opening 3, 4. In the shading position, the window opening 3, 4 closed by the window pane 5 is shaded in the region of its main opening 3 by the shading structure 6. In the shading position, the shading structure 6 is displaced upwards along the vehicle vertical direction Z and positioned approximately flush with the window pane 5. The shading position is not shown in detail in the present drawing.

[0023] In the embodiment shown, the shading structure 6 is a dimensionally stable light-protection panel L. The dimensionally stable light-protection panel L is comparatively less translucent than the window pane 5. In the present case, the light-protection panel L is at least predominantly, particularly preferably completely, opaque. This makes it possible to achieve the greatest possible shading or even darkening of the interior of the passenger car. The dimensionally stable light-protection panel L can, for example, be made of a tinted glass material or plastic material. In the embodiment shown, an unspecified outer contour of the light-protection panel L corresponds at least largely to an unspecified outer contour of the window pane 5, which in turn is adapted to an unspecified inner contour of the main opening 3 of the window opening 3, 4.

[0024] The cable drive system 7 serves for the driven displacement of the window pane 5 and the shading structure 6 between the said positions and comprises a drive 9 and at least one cable strand 10. The drive 9 and the cable strand 10 are designed as such in a manner known to those skilled in the art. The drive 9 has an unspecified electric motor unit and a gear unit, by means of which the motor unit acts on the cable strand 10 to transmit force and movement. In the embodiment shown, the cable strand 10 is designed as a circumferential cable strand and enters the drive 9 at one end and exits it at the other. The steep strand 10 is laid along a laying path V inside the vehicle door 1 and below the parapet of the window opening 3, 4. In addition, the cable strand 10 is prestressed in a manner not shown in detail but known to those skilled in the art.The installation path V is formed in the present case by means of deflection pulleys (described in more detail below) and a tensile and compressive-resistant sheath that encloses the cable strand at least in sections. The cable strand 10 is movable along the installation path V by means of the drive 9 and can be moved either clockwise or counterclockwise along the installation path V by appropriately controlling the drive 9. In this respect, one can also speak of a first direction of movement R1 (counterclockwise) and a second direction of movement R2 (clockwise). Fig. 2).

[0025] The coupling arrangement 8 serves to alternately couple the cable drive system 7 to the window pane 5 and to the shading structure 6, transmitting force and movement. This alternate coupling eliminates the need for separate cable drive systems for the window pane 5, on the one hand, and the shading structure 6, on the other. In other words, the cable drive system 7 functions according to the invention, on the one hand, as a window lifter and, on the other hand, as a drive for the shading structure 6. In order to enable functional displacement of the window pane 5 and the shading structure 6 with one and the same drive, the mechanical coupling arrangement can be transferred between a first coupling state and a second coupling state. In the first coupling state, the shading structure 6 is coupled to the cable strand 10 for driven displacement, and the window pane 5 is decoupled from the cable strand 10.In the second coupling state, the shading structure 6 is decoupled from the cable strand 10, and the window pane 5 is coupled to the cable strand 10 for driven displacement. This coupling and re-coupling is mechanically controlled depending on the position of the window pane 5, the position of the shading structure 6, and the movement of the cable strand 10.

[0026] In the embodiment shown, the mechanical coupling arrangement 8 is designed such that the first coupling state is assumed when the shading structure 6 is moved between its shading and release positions. If the cable strand 10 moves beyond the release position, the coupling of the cable strand 10 to the shading structure 6 is released. Further displacement of the cable strand 10 then does not cause any further displacement of the shading structure 6. Furthermore, the mechanical coupling arrangement 8 is designed such that the second coupling state is assumed when the window pane 5 is moved between its open and closed positions. If the cable strand moves beyond the closed position, the second coupling state is released, so that further movement of the cable strand 10 does not cause any further movement of the window pane 5.

[0027] In the embodiment shown, a driven movement of the cable strand 10 along the first direction of movement R1 causes the window pane 5 and / or the shading structure 6 to be raised to close or shade the window opening 3, 4. Conversely, a displacement along the second direction of movement R2 causes the window pane 5 and / or the shading structure 6 to be lowered to open or uncover the window opening 3, 4.

[0028] In the embodiment shown, the mechanical coupling arrangement 8 has a first coupling device 11 connected to the shading structure 6 and a second coupling device 12 connected to the window pane 5. In addition, at least one driver element 13, 14 connected to the cable strand 10 is provided. The at least one driver element 13, 14 is assigned to the mechanical coupling arrangement 8 and / or the cable drive system 7. The at least one driver element 13, 14 is moved together with the cable strand 10 when it moves along the installation path V and thus interacts in a releasably form-fitting manner with the first coupling device 11 and / or the second coupling device 12 for the purpose of transmitting force and movement.

[0029] In the embodiment shown, two driver elements 13, 14 are present, which can also be referred to as the first driver element 13 and the second driver element 14. Such a design with two driver elements is advantageous, but not essential. Accordingly, in an embodiment not shown in the drawing, only a single driver element is present.

[0030] The first coupling device 11 is arranged below a lower edge of the shading structure 6 with respect to the vehicle vertical direction Z and is joined to the shading structure 6 or to a component firmly connected to the shading structure 6 by means of suitable joining connections. The same applies analogously with regard to the connection of the second coupling device 12 to the window pane 5. The driver elements 13, 14 are firmly connected to the cable strand 10 in a manner known to those skilled in the art.

[0031] The movement of the window pane 5 and the shading structure 6 between the said positions is carried out in a linear manner. In order to achieve or at least support a linear guide that meets the requirements, the first coupling device 11 and the second coupling device 12 are in this case arranged on a Fig. 3 and Fig. 5 schematically indicated guide rail arrangement 15, 16. Additionally, a linear guide device formed in the area of ​​the supporting structure T and configured to guide the window pane 5 and / or the shading structure 6 may be present.

[0032] In the embodiment shown, the guide rail arrangement 15, 16 comprises a first guide rail 15, which is assigned to the first coupling device 11, and a second guide rail 16, which is assigned to the second coupling device 12. The first and second guide rails 15, 16 extend in their respective main extension directions along the vehicle vertical direction Z and parallel to one another. The guide rail arrangement 15, 16 is fastened to the support structure T below the parapet of the window opening 3, 4 in a manner not shown in detail.

[0033] In the release position of the shading structure 6, the first coupling device 11 assumes a lower end position with respect to the longitudinal extent of the first guide rail 15. In the shading position, the first coupling device 11 assumes an upper end position. In the closed position of the window pane 5, the second coupling device 12 assumes an upper end position with respect to the longitudinal extent of the second guide rail 16. In the open position, the second coupling device 12 assumes a lower end position. The coupling and uncoupling by means of the mechanical coupling device 8 is carried out in such a way that the second coupling device 12 remains in its upper end position even when the first coupling device 11 is displaced between its lower and upper end positions.Conversely, the first coupling device 11 can only be moved between its lower and upper end positions when the second coupling device 12 assumes its upper end position and the window opening 3, 4 is closed. This can, in particular, counteract damage to the shading structure 6 caused by the wind of the passenger car. In other words, the mechanical control of the coupling arrangement 8 is designed such that the window opening 3, 4 can only be shaded when it is closed by the window pane 5.

[0034] In the embodiment shown, the direction of the laying path V is deflected several times by means of several deflection rollers 17 to 23. Hereinafter, the deflection roller 22 is referred to as the first deflection roller and the deflection roller 18 as the second deflection roller.

[0035] The first deflection pulley 22 is arranged on the front end of the first guide rail 15 in the region of the lower end position of the first coupling device 11. The installation path V has a first bend C1 formed by the first deflection pulley 22. In the region of the bend C1, the installation path V is angled by 180°. The installation path V is subdivided by the first deflection pulley 22 into a first path section V1 and a second path section V2. The path sections V1, V2 are longitudinally extending antiparallel. In the embodiment shown, the coupling and decoupling of the first coupling device 11 to the cable strand 10 takes place in the region of the first bend C1, more precisely: when the first driver element 13 and the first coupling device 11 are positioned in the region of the first bend C1.

[0036] In the area of ​​the second deflection pulley 18, the installation path V forms a second bend C2. The cable strand 10 is deflected by 180° in the area of ​​the second bend C2. The bend C2 and / or the second deflection pulley 18 subdivides the installation path V into a third path section V3 and a fourth path section V4. The third and fourth path sections V3, V4 extend antiparallel longitudinally. In the embodiment shown, the coupling and uncoupling of the second coupling device 12 takes place in the area of ​​the second bend C2, more precisely: when the second coupling device 12 and the second driver element 14 are positioned in the area of ​​the second bend C2.

[0037] Before going into further details of the functioning and design of the first and second coupling devices 11, 12, the basic functioning of the mechanical coupling arrangement 8 is first explained, starting from the Fig. The configuration shown in Figures 1 to 5 is described.

[0038] In the configuration shown, the various components and / or sections of the protective device 2 assume the following positions: window pane 5 in the closed position; second coupling device 12 in the upper end position; second driver element 14 in the region of the fourth travel section V4; shading structure 6 in the release position; first coupling device 11 in the lower end position; first driver element 13 in the region of the first travel section V1. Furthermore, in this configuration, there is no force- and motion-transmitting active connection between the second driver element 14 and the second coupling device. The same applies to the first driver element 13 and the first coupling device 11. As a result, the mechanical coupling arrangement 8 in the configuration shown assumes a type of transition position in which both the window pane 5 and the shading structure 6 are decoupled from the cable strand 10.

[0039] Starting from the aforementioned configuration, the cable strand 10 is displaced along the first direction of movement R1 by means of the drive 9. The second driver element 14 is thereby displaced downward along the fourth path section V4. There is no interaction with the second coupling device 12, which remains in its upper end position. The first driver element 13 passes through the first bend C1 and thereby enters into a force- and motion-transmitting operative connection with the first coupling device 11. Upon further movement of the cable strand 10 in the first direction of movement R1, the first coupling device 11 is displaced upward from its lower end position along the guide rail arrangement 15, 16. In other words, the first coupling device 11, together with the shading structure 6, is dragged upward by the first driver element 13.The first driver element 13 moves upward along the second path section V2. The shading structure 6 can thereby be displaced into its shading position. To remove the shading, the cable strand 10 is displaced along the second direction of movement R2. As a result, the first driver element 13, together with the coupled first coupling device 11 and the shading structure 6, is displaced downward along the second path section V2 or the guide rail arrangement 15, 16. After reaching the lower end position (. Fig. 2) of the first coupling device 11, the first driver element 13 passes through the first bend C1. After passing through the first bend C1, the positive and / or non-positive operative connection between the first driver element 13 and the first coupling device 11 is released, and the shading structure 6 is decoupled from the cable strand 10. It remains in the release position even upon further displacement of the cable strand 10 along the second direction of movement R2. Starting from the configuration shown in the figures, the second driver element 14 then reaches the region of the second bend C2 and thus comes into positive and / or non-positive engagement with the second coupling device 12. This couples the window pane 5 to the cable strand 10. After passing through the second bend C2, the second driver element 14 moves downward along the third path section V3.The second coupling device 12, together with the window pane 5, is dragged downwards along the guide rail arrangement 15, 16 toward its lower end position. In this way, the window pane 5 can be moved into its open position. By reversing the direction of movement of the cable strand 10 again, the window pane 5 can be moved into its closed position. Moving the cable strand 10 beyond the closed position causes the second coupling device 12 to disengage from the second driver element 14. At the same time, the first driver element engages the first coupling device 11, so that the shading structure 6—with the window opening 3, 4 now closed—can be moved into its shading position.

[0040] The detailed design and functioning of the coupling devices 11, 12 is explained below with reference to the Fig. 6 to 9. This primarily relates to the second coupling device 12. What has been said about the second coupling device 12 applies mutatis mutandis to the first coupling device 11. Its structure will not be explained in detail. Instead, explicit reference is made to what has been said about the second coupling device 12.

[0041] The second coupling device 12 has a carriage unit 24 with a driver profile 25, which is linearly guided on the guide rail arrangement 15, 16, more precisely: the second guide rail 16. The driver profile 25 is designed for releasably positively engaging with the second driver element 14. Furthermore, the second coupling device 12 has a locking unit 26, by means of which the second coupling device 12 can be releasably locked to the second guide rail 16 in a positively and / or non-positively engaging manner under the controlling action of the second driver element 14.

[0042] In the embodiment shown, the carriage unit 24 has a carriage body 241 that interacts directly with the second guide rail 16 for sliding movement. For this purpose, the carriage body 241 has guide slots 242 arranged opposite one another in the transverse direction of the carriage body 241, which are open towards the inside and extend longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second guide rail 16. In the fully assembled state, the carriage body 241 sits on or at the second guide rail 16, with lateral guide webs 161 of the second guide rail 16 engaging in the guide slots 242. Of course, a design with only one guide slot is also conceivable. In this way, the second coupling device 12 is slidably movable along the second guide rail 16 and is held thereon in a form-fitting manner in the other directions.

[0043] In the embodiment shown, the driver profile 25 is formed directly on the carriage body 241. In addition, the driver profile 25 is designed as a driver slot S1 that is open on one side. To couple the second coupling device 12, the second driver element 14 enters the driver slot S1 at one end. To uncouple, the second driver element 14 exits the driver slot S1. The driver slot S1 has an inlet section 251, a longitudinal section 252, and a transverse section 253. In the embodiment shown, the second driver element 14 has a driver extension 141 that is cylindrical. The driver slot S1 is dimensionally matched to the driver extension 141. The longitudinal section 252 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction of the second guide rail 16.The same applies to the installation path of the cable strand 10 formed in the area of ​​the second bend C2, with the path sections V3, V4. The transverse section 253 is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal section 252. The longitudinal section 252 and the transverse section 253 are connected to each other by means of a curved section (not further specified).

[0044] The second deflection roller 18 is arranged at an upper end 162 of the second guide rail 16 and is rotatably fastened thereto by means of an axle element 181 which engages in an axle receptacle 163 of the second guide rail 16.

[0045] To couple the second coupling device 12, the second driver element 14 moves from bottom to top along the third path section V3 into the inlet section 251, moves along the longitudinal section 252, and is moved into the transverse section 253 upon passing through the second bend C2. After passing through the second bend C2, the second driver element 14 moves from top to bottom along the fourth path section V4, with the driver extension 141 being held in a form-fitting manner in the transverse section 253 in the longitudinal direction of the second guide rail 16. As a result, the second coupling device 12 is coupled to the cable strand 10 and dragged downwards along the second guide rail 16 under the action of the second driver element 14. The uncoupling of the second coupling device takes place in a kinematically reverse manner.

[0046] The locking unit 26 serves to releasably lock the second coupling device 12 in the upper end position. This allows the window pane 5 to be reliably held in the closed position after being uncoupled from the cable strand 10. The locking unit 26 can be transferred between a locked state and a released state under the action of the second driver element 14. In the locked state, the second coupling device 12 is locked to the second guide rail 16. In the released state, this locking is released, and the second coupling device 12 can accordingly be displaced linearly along the second guide rail 16.

[0047] For transitioning between the locking and release states, the locking unit 26 has a relatively movable locking element 261. The locking element 261 interacts with the second driver element 14 and, in the locked state, with the front end region 162.

[0048] For interaction with the second driver element 14, the locking element 261 has a control profile 262. This is designed in this case as a control slot S2 open on one side.

[0049] For interaction with the front end region 162, the locking element 261 has a locking profile 263. In the locked state, this profile interacts positively with a locking web 164 of the second guide rail 16. The locking web 164 is bent by approximately 90° from the longitudinal extension of the second guide rail and forms an upper end of the second guide rail 16.

[0050] In the embodiment shown, the locking element 261 is Fig. 6, the rotary wheel 264 is rotatably mounted on the carriage unit 24, or more precisely, on its carriage body 241, by means of a rotational axis D shown in dashed lines. The locking element 261 is designed as a rotary wheel 264 and has a substantially circular disk-shaped basic form. In its fully assembled state, the rotary wheel 264 is fitted into a receiving recess (not further designated) in the carriage body 241, which is arranged transversely between the two guide slots 242. The rotary wheel 264 is attached to the carriage body 241 by means of a wheel axle 265 so as to be rotatable about the rotational axis D. For this purpose, the wheel axle 265 engages in a receiving bore (not further designated) in the carriage body 241.

[0051] The control slot S2, which is open on one side, forms a radial notch of the rotary wheel 264 and has an inlet section 266 and an end section 267 which, in the longitudinal direction of the control slot 262, directly adjoins the inlet section 266. The locking profile 263 is formed on the edge of the rotary wheel 264. In the present case, the locking profile 263 is a radially inwardly open, undercut groove N which extends longitudinally in the circumferential direction of the rotary wheel 264. The groove N extends over approximately 150° in the present case. In the locked state, an edge region of the rotary wheel 264 (not further designated) provided with the groove N engages over the front end 162. The locking web 164 engages positively in the groove N in the longitudinal direction of the second guide rail 16. The locking web 164 is curved longitudinally in a manner adapted to the radius of the groove.

[0052] Fig. 9 shows a decoupled and locked state of the second coupling device 12. To release the locking and to couple the second coupling device 12, the second driver element 14 is displaced along the first direction of movement R1 within the third path section V3. The slots S1, S2 form a link arrangement. The driver extension 141 initially enters the inlet section 251 of the driver slot S1. After passing through the longitudinal section 252, the driver extension 141 engages the control slot S2 of the rotary wheel 264. By further displacement, the driver extension 141 is moved along the curved section of the driver slot S1, whereby the rotary wheel 264 is rotated counterclockwise about the rotation axis D ( Fig. 8). The edge region of the rotary wheel 264 releases the upper end face 162. The groove N disengages from the locking web 164. After passing through the second bend C2, the driver extension 141 is located in the transverse section 253. A further displacement along the fourth path section V4 causes the second coupling device 12 to be coupled and dragged downward along the second guide rail 16 under the influence of the second driver element 14. The uncoupling and locking takes place in a kinematically reverse manner.

[0053] Based on the Fig. 11 to 13, a further embodiment of a protective device 2' is shown, which is a variant of the protective device 2 according to the Fig. 1 to 9. The protective device 2' has essentially an identical structure to the protective device 2. Only the essential differences will be discussed below.

[0054] In contrast to the protective device 2, the protective device 2' has an additional shading structure 30 and an additional cable strand 50. The additional shading structure 30 is assigned to the secondary opening 4 of the window opening 3, 4 and can be displaced between a corresponding shading and release position. The additional cable strand is connected to the additional shading structure 30 by means of a connecting device 40, transmitting force and movement. The connecting device 40 is linearly guided on a guide rail not shown in detail in the drawing. The additional cable strand 30 is - in contrast to the cable strand 10 - not directly driven by the drive 9. Rather, the additional cable strand 30 is connected to the first coupling device 11'. This achieves a forced, dragged movement of the additional shading structure 30 depending on the displacement movement of the shading structure 6.For connection to the further cable strand 30, the first coupling device 11' has a connecting section 111. The connecting section 111 is connected to the further cable strand 30 in a force- and movement-transmitting manner.

[0055] In the Fig. In the configuration shown in Figures 10 to 13, the additional shading structure 30 assumes its release position. The connecting device 40 assumes a lower end position with respect to its direction of displacement and the guide rail (not shown in detail). When the first coupling device 11' is displaced from its lower end position toward the upper end position, the connecting device 40, together with the additional shading structure 30 connected to it, is forcibly dragged along. The forced movement occurs in both directions.

[0056] Furthermore, the further shading structure 30 is designed as a dimensionally stable light protection panel in accordance with the shading structure 6.

Claims

[1] Protective device (2, 2') for a window opening (3, 4) of a motor vehicle, comprising a window pane (5) which is linearly displaceable between a closed position, in which the window pane (5) closes the window opening (3, 4), and an open position, in which the window opening (3, 4) is open, at least one shading structure (6) which is linearly displaceable between a shading position in which the shading structure (6) shades the window opening (3, 4) and a release position in which the shading structure (6) releases the window opening (3, 4), and comprising a cable drive system (7) which is designed for the driven displacement of the window pane (5) and / or the shading structure (6) and has a drive (9) and a cable strand (10) which is movable by means of the drive (9) and laid along a laying path (V), wherein a mechanical coupling arrangement (8) is provided which, depending on the position of the window pane (5), the position of the shading structure (6) and the movement of the cable strand (10), can be transferred between a first coupling state, in which the shading structure (6) is coupled to the cable strand (10) for driven displacement and the window pane (5) is decoupled from the cable strand (10), and a second coupling state, in which the shading structure (6) is decoupled from the cable strand (10) and the window pane (5) is coupled to the cable strand (10) for driven displacement, wherein the coupling arrangement (8) has a first coupling device (11, 11') connected to the shading structure (6) and a second coupling device (12) connected to the window pane (5), which are each linearly guided on a guide rail arrangement (15, 16), wherein the first and the second coupling device (11, 11', 12) in the respective coupling state interact in a force- and movement-transmitting, releasably form-fitting manner with at least one driver element (13, 14) which is connected to the cable strand (10), characterized by in that the laying path (V) of the cable strand (10) has at least one first bend (C1) formed by means of a first deflection roller (22) and a second bend (C2) formed by means of a second deflection roller (18), wherein the coupling and uncoupling of the first coupling device (11, 11') takes place in the region of the first bend (C1), and wherein the coupling and uncoupling of the second coupling device (12) takes place in the region of the second bend (C2). [2] Protective device (2, 2') according to claim 1, characterized by that the first coupling device (11, 11') and / or the second coupling device (12) each have a carriage unit (24) which is linearly guided on the guide rail arrangement (15, 16) and has a driver profile (25) which is designed for releasably positive interaction with the at least one driver element (13, 14). [3] Protective device (2, 2') according to claim 2, characterized by that the driver profile (25) is designed as a driver slot (S1) open on one side, into which the driver element (13, 14) enters for coupling and is held in a form-fitting manner and from which the driver element (13, 14) exits for decoupling. [4] Protective device (2, 2') according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the first coupling device (11, 11') and / or the second coupling device (12) each have a locking unit (26) by means of which the respective coupling device (11, 11', 12) can be releasably locked in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner on the guide rail arrangement (15, 16) under the controlling action of the driver element (13, 14). [5] Protective device (2, 2') according to claim 4, characterized by that the locking unit (26) has a locking element (261) which can be displaced between a locking state and a release state and which has a control profile (262) with which the at least one driver element (13, 14) cooperates to displace the locking element (261) between the locking state and the release state. [6] Protective device (2, 2') according to claim 5, characterized bythat the locking element (261) is a rotary wheel (264) which is rotatable about an axis of rotation (D), in particular mounted on the respective slide unit (24), and has a locking profile (263) which, for locking purposes, cooperates in a releasably form-fitting manner with a front end (162) of the guide rail arrangement (15, 16). [7] Protective device (2, 2') according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that the control profiling (262) is designed as a control slot (S2) open on one side on the locking element (261) and / or that the control profiling (262) and the driver profiling (25) are arranged to overlap one another at least in sections, forming a link arrangement (262, 25) for controlling the movement of the locking element (261). [8] Protective device (2') according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat at least one further shading structure (30) is present and is connected to a further cable strand (50) of the cable drive system (7), wherein the further shading structure (30) is assigned to a secondary section (4) of the window opening (3, 4), and wherein the further cable strand (50) is connected to the first coupling device (11'), whereby a towed forced movement of the further shading structure (30) is achieved as a function of the displacement movement of the shading structure (6). [9] Protective device (2, 2') according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the shading structure (6) is a dimensionally stable light protection pane (L) which is comparatively less translucent than the window pane (5) and / or is at least predominantly, particularly preferably completely, opaque. [10] Coupling arrangement (8) for a protective device (2, 2') according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a first coupling device (11, 11') and a second coupling device (12), each having a carriage unit (24) which is designed for slidable linear guidance on a guide rail arrangement (15, 16) and has a driver profile (25) for releasably positively engaging with a driver element (13, 14) of a cable drive system (7), wherein the first coupling device (11, 11') and / or the second coupling device (12) each have a locking unit (26) by means of which the respective coupling device (11, 11', 12) can be releasably locked in a positively and / or force-fitting manner on the guide rail arrangement (15, 16) under the controlling action of the driver element (13, 14). [11] Motor vehicle door (1) with a protective device (2, 2') according to one of claims 1 to 9.

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