Flap device for a vehicle as well as vehicle

Abstract

A flap device (10) for a vehicle, comprising a housing (12) which has a channel (K) through which a fluid can flow, a shaft (16) rotatable about an axis of rotation (D) relative to the housing (12), and a flap (18) which is non-rotatably connected to the shaft (16) about the axis of rotation (D) relative to the housing (12) between a closed position (ST) which fluidically blocks at least a partial area (TB1, TB2) of a flow cross-section (Q) of the channel (K) through which the fluid can flow, and at least an open position (O) which releases at least the partial area (TB1, TB2), characterized in that: - the shaft (16) has at least one first length section (L1) arranged in a corresponding receptacle (A) of the housing (12), the receptacle (A) of which opens into the channel (K) when considering only the housing (12). The first length section (L1) has a first outer diameter and a second length section (L2) extending axially from the shaft (16) towards the flap (18) and the channel (K), with a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter. - at least part of the second length range (L2) is arranged in the recording (A); - at least one additional element (26) is provided, which is formed separately from the shaft (16) and separately from the flap (18) and is connected to the shaft (16) in a rotationally fixed manner, which is arranged at least partially in the part of the second length range (L2) and extends outwards in the radial direction of the shaft (16) so far away from the shaft (16) that the additional element (26) ends outwards in the radial direction of the shaft (16) at the first outer diameter; - in a plane in which the flow cross-section (Q) runs, and in the radial direction of the shaft (16), on both sides of the part of the second length region (L2), a gap (S) extending in the plane and arranged in the radial direction of the shaft (16) between the part of the second length region (L2) and a respective wall region (W) of the housing (12) partially limiting the intake (A) is arranged as a respective part of the intake (A); wherein - the additional element in the closed position (ST) of the flap (18) at least predominantly fluidically blocks the respective gap (S), and wherein the additional element (26) in the open position (O) of the flap (18) releases the respective gap (S) which opens into the channel (K).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a flap device for a vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, with at least one such flap device.

[0002] DE 37 26 332 C1 discloses an intake manifold of an internal combustion engine, with a crankcase ventilation line opening upstream of a throttle valve and with a heated outlet area.

[0003] DE 10 2019 119 937 A1 discloses a flap device for a vehicle, comprising a housing with a channel through which a fluid can flow and a shaft rotatable about an axis of rotation relative to the housing. A flap is non-rotatably connected to the shaft and is rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to the housing between a closed position that fluidically blocks at least a portion of a flow cross-section of the channel through which the fluid can flow and at least one open position that releases at least that portion.

[0004] US 3 670 071 A, DE 199 09 922 A1 and DE 32 13 890 A1 each disclose, considered separately, a flap device with a shaft which has at least one first longitudinal section arranged in a corresponding receptacle of a housing, the receptacle of which, when considering only the housing, opens into a channel, and a second longitudinal section adjoining the first longitudinal section in the axial direction of the shaft towards the flap and the channel, with a second outer diameter smaller than the first outer diameter.In this arrangement, at least a part of the second length range is arranged in the receptacle and at least one additional element is provided, which is formed separately from the shaft and separately from the flap and is rotationally fixed to the shaft, and which is arranged at least partially in the part of the second length range and extends radially outwards from the shaft so far that the additional element ends radially outwards at the first outer diameter.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to create a flap device for a vehicle and a vehicle with at least one such flap device, so that the probability of corrosion of the flap device can be kept particularly low.

[0006] This problem is solved by a flap device with the features of claim 1 and by a vehicle with the features of claim 8. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the remaining claims.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention relates to a flap device, also referred to as a flap system, for a vehicle preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a motor car, and most especially as a passenger car. This means that the vehicle, in its fully manufactured state, has the flap device. The flap device has a housing which has a channel through which flow can pass. In particular, the channel is bounded, in particular directly, by an inner circumferential surface, in particular a cylindrical inner circumferential surface, of the housing. The flap device also has a shaft which is rotatable about an axis of rotation relative to the housing. The flap device also has a flap connected to the shaft in a rotationally fixed manner. In principle, it is conceivable that the flap is designed separately from the shaft and connected to the shaft in a rotationally fixed manner.Furthermore, it is conceivable that the flap is formed integrally with the shaft. The flap can be rotated with the shaft around the axis of rotation relative to the housing between a closed position and at least one open position. In other words, the flap can be rotated around the axis of rotation relative to the housing between the closed and open positions. More specifically, by rotating the shaft around the axis of rotation relative to the housing, the flap can be rotated around the axis of rotation relative to the housing and thereby rotated between the open and closed positions. For example, an actuator is provided by means of which the shaft can be driven and thus rotated around the axis of rotation relative to the housing.By rotating the shaft around its axis of rotation and relative to the housing, the actuator can rotate the flap around this axis and relative to the housing between the closed and open positions. In the closed position, the flap fluidically blocks at least a portion of the channel's flow cross-section, preventing the fluid from flowing through this blocked area. Specifically, in the closed position, the flap extends in an imaginary plane, in which, for example, the axis of rotation runs. This plane is perpendicular to the flow direction in which the fluid can flow through the channel and thus its cross-section, or in the direction of flow during vehicle operation.In the open position, the flap releases at least the partial area, so that in the open position the fluid, especially in the direction of flow, can flow through the releasing partial area.

[0008] To minimize the probability of corrosion of the valve assembly, and thus the probability of excessive and / or excessively rapid corrosion of the valve assembly caused, for example, by condensation, the invention provides that the shaft has a first longitudinal section with a first outer diameter arranged in a corresponding receptacle in the housing, also referred to as a shaft receptacle, and a second longitudinal section with a second outer diameter, which extends axially along the shaft and thus along the axis of rotation towards the valve and the channel. This second longitudinal section has a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter. When considering only the housing, the receptacle opens into the channel. In other words, when considering only the housing, the receptacle and the channel are fluidically connected.In particular, the shaft is cylindrical on its outer circumference in the first length section, so that it has the shape of a right circular cylinder in this section. Thus, the first length section has the first outer diameter completely around the shaft's axis of rotation, and therefore over a full 360 degrees. For example, the first length section has a first outer circumference, which is preferably circular and has the first outer diameter. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the second length section has a second outer circumference, which is preferably circular and has the second outer diameter. Thus, for example, the shaft is cylindrical on its outer circumference in the second length section, so that it has the shape of a right circular cylinder in this section.At least a portion of the second length of the shaft is located within the receptacle. This portion is also referred to as the first portion. When the term "the portion" is used previously and subsequently, it refers, unless otherwise specified, to this portion. It is conceivable that a second portion of the second length, extending axially from the shaft, and in particular directly adjacent to the first portion, could be located within the channel and thus outside the receptacle.

[0009] Preferably, the flow cross-section, particularly when viewed in the aforementioned plane, is circular or circular segment-shaped and thus arranged within a circular envelope, wherein the intake, for example, particularly in the axial direction of the shaft, adjoins the flow cross-section or the envelope and, viewed in the aforementioned plane, is rectangular. Viewed three-dimensionally, the intake is, for example, cylindrical on its inner circumference, thus in the form of a right circular cylinder.

[0010] Furthermore, according to the invention, at least one additional element is provided, formed separately from the shaft and the flap and non-rotatably connected to the shaft, which is rotatable with the shaft and the flap about the axis of rotation relative to the housing between the open position and the release position. The additional element is arranged at least partially within the second length region and extends radially outwards from the shaft and so far away from the shaft that the additional element terminates radially outwards at the first outer diameter. In other words, a radially spaced, and in particular free, end of the additional element, which terminates radially outwards at its end, is arranged on a third outer diameter that corresponds to the first outer diameter.In other words, the aforementioned end of the additional element, viewed radially outwards along the shaft, is flush with the first outer diameter or the first length section. Where the radial direction is mentioned before and below, this refers, unless otherwise specified, to the radial direction of the shaft. Where the axial direction is mentioned before and below, this refers, unless otherwise specified, to the axial direction of the shaft.

[0011] In particular, it is provided that the intake, when considering only the housing in the radial direction of the shaft, is limited outwards, especially directly, by an inner circumferential surface of the housing, wherein preferably the inner circumferential surface of the housing is cylindrical and thus in the form of a straight circular cylinder.Since the second outer diameter is smaller than the first outer diameter, the second length section—that is, the first part of an outer circumferential surface of the shaft located in the second length section—is set back radially inwards along the shaft and thus towards the axis of rotation compared to the first length section, that is, compared to a second part of the outer circumferential surface of the shaft located in the first length section. Therefore, the second length section, or rather the first part of the outer circumferential surface of the shaft, is set back radially inwards along the shaft and thus away from the inner circumferential surface of the housing. Thus, when considering the shaft alone, the shaft has a greater radial distance to the inner circumferential surface of the housing in the second length section than in the first length section.This prevents excessive, undesirable capillary action in the intake, thus avoiding the excessive intake of undesirable substances that could condense and potentially form a corrosive condensate. Furthermore, it ensures, for example, that the fluid can advantageously flow between the second longitudinal section of the shaft and the inner circumferential surface of the housing, at least during vehicle operation. This allows, for instance, the advantageous drying of an area located radially along the shaft between the second longitudinal section and the inner circumferential surface of the housing.This prevents the formation of an excessive amount of condensate, particularly in the intake, thus minimizing the likelihood of corrosion of the valve mechanism caused by such condensate.

[0012] The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: In order to achieve particularly low-emission operation, modern combustion engines utilize the temporary recirculation of a portion of the exhaust gas from the respective combustion engine into an intake tract of the respective combustion engine, also referred to simply as the engine. Systems, especially control systems, for adjusting, i.e., for controlling or regulating the supply of air to the combustion chambers of the respective combustion engine are thus, by their very nature, exposed to combustion residues contained in the recirculated exhaust gas. These residues, due to the lower temperatures in the intake tract compared to the exhaust system through which the exhaust gas flows, can condense with water vapor contained in the exhaust gas and / or the air, thus forming a condensate.One of the aforementioned systems for adjusting the air supply is, for example, a throttle valve, and the aforementioned valve according to the invention can be designed as such a throttle valve. EGR valves, by means of which the amount of recirculated exhaust gas can be adjusted, are also exposed to the aforementioned combustion residues. The condensation of these combustion residues produces, in some cases, highly acidic exhaust gas condensates on the material surfaces of components that come into contact with these acidic condensates. These acidic condensates lead to corrosive attacks on the structural materials from which the components are formed. With regard to EGR valves, EGR flaps, and throttle valves, narrow gaps, such as those found in, for example, [the following], are particularly vulnerable to damage from the resulting condensates.Condensation can occur in a passage through a shaft passing through a housing wall, also known as a housing wall. The aforementioned fitting is one such example. To accommodate small bypass gas flows, very tight tolerances of, for example, less than 1 mm are used in these areas. However, these very tight tolerances can cause capillary action for the accumulating condensates, leading to very high condensate levels. Due to the crevice geometry, condensates introduced in this way can only evaporate with great difficulty and can therefore lead to severe corrosion. Additionally, oxygen ingress into these crevices is restricted, which can lead to the formation of vents and subsequent crevice corrosion of the materials used.The corrosion products that form in the gap subsequently lead to an impairment of the mechanical function of the actuating element, up to and including complete failure by preventing the adjustment movement.

[0013] Conventional damper systems are predominantly constructed with housings made of aluminum alloys, which house a damper, usually also made of high-alloy steel, driven by a shaft made of high-alloy chromium or chromium-nickel steel. During assembly, the damper is inserted into a slot in the shaft and screwed in place via a bore drilled into the shaft perpendicular to the damper surface. To seal the gas flow to the damper actuator, the shaft is guided and sealed by two bearings mounted in the housing. In the contact area between the damper and the housing, the shaft is typically guided through a bore in the housing. This bore is designed to minimize gas ingress into the gap area, thus preventing gas flow around the damper.When acidic exhaust gas condensates enter this area, especially during extended periods of inactivity, intense corrosion of the shaft and the surface of the bore in the housing repeatedly occurs if no countermeasures are taken. The resulting voluminous corrosion products enter the gap and disrupt the mechanical function of the flap, potentially leading to complete blockage of its movement if no appropriate countermeasures are implemented. While it would theoretically be possible to significantly widen the gap between the shaft and the housing to avoid these problems, this would result in undesirable airflow around the closed flap and is unsuitable for the requirements of future engine generations.Alternative solutions include the use of expensive, highly resistant inserts made of polymers or high-alloy steels, or switching the housing materials to polymers or highly alloyed materials, which, however, may restrict the application range of the components or involve significant cost increases.

[0014] The aforementioned problems and disadvantages can be avoided by the invention. Firstly, the smaller second outer diameter compared to the first allows for a significantly larger distance between the shaft and the inner circumferential surface of the housing, thus preventing excessive capillary action that could draw condensate or condensate-forming substances into the receptacle. Secondly, the area located between the second longitudinal section and the inner circumferential surface of the housing, the receptacle of which is, for example, a bore, can be advantageously flushed, particularly with the fluid, to prevent the accumulation of excessive amounts of condensate or condensate-forming substances.The additional element makes it possible to prevent undesirable, excessive fluid flow around the flap, particularly when the flap is closed. This prevents the fluid from flowing through the area between the second longitudinal section and the inner circumferential surface of the housing, thus bypassing the flap. In particular, the invention allows for the avoidance of an excessively large circumferential gap in the contact area between the shaft and the housing, especially by modifying the existing shaft without structural changes to the existing housing, bearings, etc., compared to conventional solutions.

[0015] The second outer diameter, which is smaller than the first outer diameter, need not necessarily extend completely around the shaft in the circumferential direction about the axis of rotation. Preferably, the smaller second outer diameter extends around the shaft in the circumferential direction about the axis of rotation over less than 360 degrees, and in particular over less than 180 degrees. Preferably, in the second length region, the shaft has at least or exactly two successive sections, also referred to as shaft regions, extending around the circumference of the shaft. These sections have the smaller second outer diameter than the first, and it is provided that the shaft regions are opposite each other in the radial direction of the shaft.Preferably, the respective wall section extends circumferentially around the shaft for less than 180 degrees, and in particular less than 160 degrees. It is particularly provided that the additional element, in particular the respective additional part of the additional element, is arranged circumferentially between the shaft sections, such that the additional parts of the additional element and the shaft sections are preferably arranged alternately in succession in the circumferential direction of the shaft around the axis of rotation.

[0016] To prevent excessive condensation in the intake and to avoid an excessive amount of fluid flowing through the intake and thus bypassing the flap when it is closed, the invention provides that, in the aforementioned plane in which the flow cross-section and preferably also the axis of rotation run, and viewed radially along the shaft, a gap extending in the plane and radially along the shaft is arranged on both sides of the portion of the second length section arranged in the intake, between the portion of the second length section arranged in the intake and a respective wall section of the housing that partially and, in particular, directly delimits the intake in the radial direction of the shaft, is arranged as a respective part of the intake, wherein the additional element, in the closed position of the flap, at least predominantly,in particular, completely and fluidically blocked, and wherein the additional element, in the open position of the flap, in particular completely opens the respective gap that opens into the channel. In particular, for example, in the closed position, a first gap is at least predominantly, that is, at least more than halfway or completely, fluidically blocked by a first of the additional parts and a second gap by a second of the additional parts of the additional element, so that it can be prevented that, in the closed position of the flap, an excessive amount of fluid flows through the respective gap and thus bypasses the flap. In the open position, however, the fluid can flow through the gap and thus carry condensate or substances that can lead to unwanted condensate out of the gap and thus remove them. In addition, this prevents unwanted capillary forces,This would prevent condensate or substances that could be drawn into the intake.

[0017] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the additional element is arranged, in the axial direction of the shaft, extending along the flap and, in particular, aligned with the flap, so that, for example, in the axial direction of the shaft, i.e., in a second plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the additional element and the flap are congruent. It is particularly advantageous that, in the second plane, the flap and the additional element have the same thickness extending radially along the shaft. This allows, for example, in the open position of the flap, the fluid to flow advantageously between the portion of the second longitudinal region and the inner circumferential surface of the wall, and in the closed position, it prevents an excessive amount of fluid from bypassing the flap.

[0018] Another embodiment is characterized by the fact that the additional element is disc- or plate-shaped. For example, in the open position, the additional element can release the area located between the second longitudinal section and the inner circumferential surface of the housing, and in the closed position, it can advantageously block it fluidically. This allows the fluid to flow advantageously through the area, particularly in the open position, and in the closed position, it prevents an excessive amount of fluid from bypassing the flap.

[0019] To minimize the risk of corrosion of the valve assembly, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the additional element is made of a plastic, i.e., a polymer. The polymer is, for example, a fluoropolymer or a high-temperature-resistant polymer such as PEEK. Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the additional element is made of a metallic material. Preferably, the metallic material from which the additional element is made is a high-alloy chromium-nickel steel (CrNi steel).

[0020] The additional element, which is formed separately from the shaft and is non-rotatably connected to the shaft, is mechanically connected to the shaft, for example by clamping and / or screwing and / or welding such as spot and / or laser welding.

[0021] In order to advantageously block the area located between the portion of the second longitudinal section and the inner circumferential surface of the housing, particularly in the closed position of the flap, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the additional element extends axially along the shaft over the entire portion of the second longitudinal section located in the receptacle. This prevents, in particular, an excessive amount of fluid from bypassing the flap in the closed position, thus ensuring the optimal function of the flap mechanism while simultaneously keeping the probability of corrosion to a minimum.

[0022] To achieve an advantageous, rotationally fixed connection between the flap and the shaft, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the additional element is partially arranged in a recess of the shaft. The recess of the shaft is, for example, designed as a slot. Compared to conventional solutions, the recess of the shaft is, for example, extended in such a way that it extends axially along the shaft, at least partially within the receptacle. In particular, the recess extends axially along the shaft such that a portion of the recess is located in the second longitudinal region of the shaft. It is particularly conceivable that the additional element is arranged within the recess, especially in a portion of the recess located in the second longitudinal region of the shaft.This allows, for example, the additional element to be advantageously and, in particular, directly connected to the flap in the axial direction of the shaft, especially in such a way that the additional element is directly supported against the flap in the axial direction of the shaft. This prevents an excessive amount of fluid from surrounding the flap, especially in the closed position.

[0023] Finally, it has proven particularly advantageous if the first section is rotatably mounted on the housing via a bearing that is separate from both the shaft and the housing. This ensures the optimal functioning of the valve assembly. Since the second section, which has a smaller outer diameter than the first, adjoins the first section axially along the shaft, undesirable capillary action—which would transport condensate and condensate-forming substances into the receptacle and to the bearing—can be avoided, thus minimizing the risk of corrosion in the valve assembly.

[0024] A second aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle, preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a motor car and most especially as a passenger car, which has at least one flap device according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention and vice versa.

[0025] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment and from the drawing. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as those mentioned below in the figure description and / or shown in the figures alone, can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0026] The drawing shows in: Fig. 1 a schematic cross-sectional view of a flap device for a vehicle, wherein one flap of the flap device is in a closed position; Fig. 2. A further schematic cross-sectional view of the flap assembly, with the flap in an open position; and Fig. 3 A schematic longitudinal section view of the flap mechanism, with the flap in the closed position.

[0027] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0028] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a flap device 10, also referred to as a flap system, for a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle. The flap device 10 has a housing 12, which has a channel K through which a fluid, in particular a gas, can flow. In particular, the channel K is or is flowed through by the fluid in a flow direction during operation of the vehicle, wherein the flow direction is, for example, Fig. 2 is illustrated by an arrow 14. The flow direction, and thus arrow 14, runs perpendicular to the image plane of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. From Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. It is evident that the channel K, viewed in a plane perpendicular to the flow direction, is circular, thus having a circular cross-section and therefore, in particular, running entirely within a circle, i.e., a circular envelope. The channel K has a flow cross-section Q through which the fluid can flow, which, viewed in the plane that is, for example, the image plane of Fig. 1 or 2 is circular, that is, circular in shape and, in particular, lies completely within the envelope. The channel K or the flow cross-section Q is bounded, in particular directly, by an inner circumferential surface M1 of the housing 12, wherein the inner circumferential surface M1 is cylindrical and thus forms a right circular cylinder. Viewed in the plane, the inner circumferential surface M1 is circular.

[0029] The flap assembly 10 further comprises a shaft 16 which is rotatable about an axis of rotation D relative to the housing 12. The flap assembly 10 also includes a flap 18 which is non-rotatably connected to the shaft 16 and is therefore rotatable with the shaft 16 about the axis of rotation D relative to the housing 12 between a closed position and at least one open position. Fig. Figure 1 shows the ST-designated closed position of flap 18, and in Fig. Figure 2 shows the open position of the flap 18, labeled O. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the closed position ST and the open position O are the respective end positions of the flap 18, which can be rotated to its respective end position but not beyond it. In the closed position ST, the flow cross-section Q is maximally closed by the flap 18, and in the open position O, the flap 18 maximally opens the flow cross-section Q. The flap 18 can be locked relative to the housing 12 in both the closed position ST and the open position O, in particular by means of an actuating device, which is not shown in the figures.It is conceivable that the flap 18 can be rotatably positioned, in particular by means of the actuating device, into at least one or more intermediate positions between the closed position ST and the open position O, and in particular can be fixed in the respective intermediate position relative to the housing 12, wherein the flap 18 in the respective intermediate position further opens the flow cross-section Q compared to the closed position ST and more fluidically blocks it compared to the open position O.

[0030] The flap 18 has two flap sections 20 and 22. Viewed in the radial direction of the shaft 16, whose radial direction is perpendicular to the axis of rotation D, flap section 20 is located on this side and flap section 22 on the other side of the shaft 16. Each flap section 20, 22 projects radially from the shaft 16. Furthermore, viewed radially from the shaft 16, a first sub-section TB1 of the flow cross-section Q is located on this side of the shaft 16, and a second sub-section TB2 of the flow cross-section Q is located on the other side of the shaft 16.In the closed position ST of the flap 18, the flap section 20 at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly, that is, at least more than halfway or completely, obstructs the sub-section TB1. Similarly, in the closed position ST, the flap section 20 at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly, obstructs the sub-section TB2 of the flow cross-section Q, and thus at least more than halfway or completely. In the open position O, the flap sections 20 and 22 release the sub-sections TB1 and TB2, respectively, completely, so that in the open position O the fluid can flow through the released sub-sections TB1 and TB2. Viewed in the circumferential direction of the shaft 16 around the axis of rotation D, each flap section 20 or 22 is followed by a corresponding circumferential section of the shaft 16, with the surrounding areas being free of the flap 18.In the circumferential direction of shaft 16, the surrounding areas of shaft 16 and the flap parts 20 and 22 are arranged alternately. This allows the flap 18 to at least partially block the sub-areas TB1 and TB2 in the closed position ST and to release them in the open position O.

[0031] In the axial direction of the shaft 16, whose axial direction coincides with the axis of rotation D, a receptacle A of the housing 12 adjoins the circular flow cross-section Q on both sides. The respective receptacle A is bounded radially outwards, in particular directly, by a second inner circumferential surface M2 of the housing 12. Viewed three-dimensionally, the respective inner circumferential surface M2 is cylindrical, i.e., in the form of a right circular cylinder. Viewed in the aforementioned plane, which here corresponds to the plane of the image of Fig. Since 1 coincides, the respective inlet A is cylindrical and thus formed in the form of a right circular cylinder. It can be seen that the respective inlet A connects to the channel K and thus to the flow cross-section Q in the axial direction of the shaft 16 away from the flap 18. Thus, viewed three-dimensionally, the respective inlet A and thus the respective circumferential surface M2 are cylindrical, and therefore formed in the form of a right circular cylinder, and viewed in the aforementioned plane, the respective inlet A and thus the respective inner circumferential surface M2 are rectangular.

[0032] When considering only the housing 12, the respective intake A opens into the channel K; therefore, the respective intake A is fluidically connected to the channel K.

[0033] Each mounting A of the shaft 16 has a first length section L1 arranged in the respective mounting A, with a first outer diameter. The respective first length section L1 is, for example, completely cylindrical in the circumferential direction of the shaft 16 and thus formed in the form of a right circular cylinder, such that, for example, the shaft 16 has the first outer diameter in the respective length section L1 completely circumferentially, i.e., over 360 degrees. The circumferential direction of the shaft 16 around the axis of rotation D is illustrated by an arrow 24. The aforementioned plane is also referred to as the first plane. The circumferential direction of the shaft 16 runs, for example, in a second plane, which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation D and thus perpendicular to the aforementioned first plane.Viewed from the second plane, for example, the respective intake A and thus the respective inner circumferential surface M2 are cylindrical, i.e., shaped like a right circular cylinder. The flow direction runs parallel to or within the second plane.

[0034] In the axial direction of the shaft 16, a second length section L2 of the shaft 16 adjoins each length section L1 towards the flap 18. Within each second length section L2, the shaft 16 has a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter. For example, as shown in the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the second outer diameter can extend completely around the shaft 16 in the circumferential direction, so that the shaft 16 has the second outer diameter completely circumferentially in each length section L2, thus completing a 360-degree rotation.Alternatively, it would be conceivable that the wave 16, in the respective second length region L2, has at least or exactly two successive and spaced-apart wave regions in the circumferential direction of the wave 16, also referred to as further circumferential regions, wherein the respective wave region extends around the wave 16 by less than 180 degrees, in particular less than 160 degrees. The aforementioned wave regions are also referred to as first wave regions. In the circumferential direction of the wave 16, for example, second wave regions can be connected to each first wave region on both sides, arranged in the wave region L2.Viewed in the circumferential direction of shaft 16, the first and second shaft sections are arranged alternately, wherein, for example, each second shaft section has a third outer diameter, which is preferably larger than the second outer diameter. For example, the third outer diameter corresponds to the first outer diameter.

[0035] Since the second outer diameter is smaller than the first outer diameter, the respective second length range L2 is offset inwards in the radial direction of the shaft 16 and thus towards the axis of rotation D compared to the respective first length range L1 and pointing away from the respective cylindrical surface M2.

[0036] It is also apparent that at least a portion of each second length section L2 is arranged in the respective receptacle A. In the embodiment shown in the figures, a first portion of each length section L2 is arranged in the respective receptacle A, and a second portion of each length section L2 is arranged in the channel K. The second portion of each second length section L2 connects directly to the first portion of each second length section L2 in the axial direction of the shaft 16.

[0037] In each length range L2, the flap assembly 10 has a separate additional element 26, which is formed separately from the shaft 16, the flap 18, and the housing 12, and is rotationally fixed to the shaft 16. Each additional element 26 has at least or exactly two additional parts Z1 and Z2, wherein each additional part Z2 is arranged radially on this side of the shaft 16, and each additional part Z1 is arranged radially on the other side of the shaft 16. This means, in particular, that each additional part Z1, Z2 projects outwards from the shaft 16 in the radial direction. For example, the additional elements 26 and the flap 18 are arranged in a common plane, which, for example, coincides with the aforementioned first plane at least in the closed position ST.In particular, it is conceivable that if the shaft 16 has the aforementioned wave regions, the additional parts Z1, Z2 of the respective additional element 26 are arranged in the circumferential direction of the shaft 16 offset from the first wave regions and, for example, in the second wave regions.

[0038] The respective additional element 26, in particular the respective additional part Z1, Z2, extends in the radial direction of the shaft 16 outwards so far away from the shaft 16 that the respective additional element 16 ends in the radial direction of the shaft 16 outwards at the first outer diameter and is thus arranged flush with or terminates with the respective length range L1, in particular viewed in the radial direction of the shaft 16 outwards.

[0039] Out of Fig. 2 It is evident that, because the shaft 16 has a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter in the respective length range L2, a gap is arranged in the first plane and in the radial direction of the shaft 16 on both sides of the respective part of the second length range L2 arranged in the respective receptacle A, extending in the radial direction of the shaft 16 between the respective part of the second length range L2 arranged in the respective receptacle A and a respective wall area W of the housing 12 which partially and directly delimits the respective receptacle A outwards in the radial direction of the shaft 16, as a respective part of the respective receptacle A.wherein the additional elements 26, also referred to as intermediate elements, at least predominantly and thus at least more than half or completely obstruct the gap S in the closed position ST of the flap 18. In the open position O, the additional elements 26 release the gap S.

[0040] This prevents the fluid from flowing through gap S and thus bypassing flap 18 when ST is closed. However, in the open position O, the fluid can flow not only through the released sections TB1 and TB2 of the flow cross-section Q, but also through gap S. This allows the fluid to, for example, carry condensate or condensate-forming substances out of gap S and thus remove them. Furthermore, since the respective second outer diameter is smaller than the respective first outer diameter, capillary action in the respective inlet A is avoided, preventing an excessive amount of condensate or condensate-forming substances from being drawn into inlet A by capillary action.Thus, the probability of excessive and / or excessively rapid corrosion of the flap assembly 10 caused by condensate can be kept particularly low or even avoided.

[0041] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view in a section plane labeled AA, which could, for example, be the second plane. Fig. In position 3, flap 18 is in its closed position ST. It looks particularly good. Fig.As can be seen in Figures 1 to 3, the respective additional element 26, viewed axially along the shaft 16, extends along the flap 18 and is aligned with it, so that, viewed in the second plane, the respective additional element 26 and the flap 18 are congruent. Furthermore, it is provided that the respective additional element 26 extends axially along the shaft 16 over the entire portion of the respective second length range L2 located in the respective receptacle A. This allows the respective gap to be advantageously closed in the closed position ST.

[0042] The shaft 16 has, for example, a slot-shaped recess 28 in which the flap 18 and the respective additional element 26 are arranged. For example, the flap parts 20 and 22 are formed integrally, i.e., from a single piece. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the respective additional parts Z1 and Z2 of the respective additional element 26 are formed integrally, i.e., from a single piece. It is also conceivable that the recess 28 is designed as a through-opening that completely penetrates the shaft 16 in the radial direction. In this case, for example, the flap 18 and the additional elements 26 penetrate the recess 28 in the radial direction of the shaft 16, such that, viewed in the radial direction of the shaft 16, the additional elements 26 and the flap 18 project from and away from the shaft 16 on both sides.

[0043] The first wave sections are local areas with a reduced outer diameter compared to the first outer diameter. Since the respective additional element 26 extends radially outwards along the shaft 16 up to and ends at the first outer diameter, the smaller second outer diameter compared to the first outer diameter is, in effect, compensated for by the respective additional element 26.

[0044] Preferably, the flap 18 is straightened on its respective side facing the respective additional element 26 in the axial direction of the shaft 16, and thus is planar, and preferably the respective additional element 26 is straightened on its respective side facing the flap 18 in the axial direction of the shaft 16, and thus is planar. For example, the side of the respective additional element 26 facing the flap 18 rests, in the axial direction of the shaft 16, in particular directly, against the respective side of the flap 18 facing the respective additional element 26 in the axial direction of the shaft 16, thereby preventing an excessive amount of fluid from bypassing the flap 18 and the additional elements 26, particularly in the closed position ST. In particular, the sides of the flap 18 and the respective additional element 26 interact in a positive-locking manner.

[0045] In comparison to conventional solutions, the respective gap S is an extended area between the recessed or offset length section L2 and the inner circumferential surface M2 of the housing 12. The respective gap S is a non-critical area or circumference for the closing behavior of the flap device 10 and prevents capillary action in the respective receptacle A. It allows for the drying of media, especially liquids, in the respective receptacle A and gas exchange in the respective gap S between the shaft 16 and the housing 12. Thus, excessive corrosion stress and the formation of crevice corrosion in the respective gap S, and especially in the respective receptacle A as a whole, can be effectively prevented.In addition, compared to conventional solutions, a critical area with narrow gaps can be reduced by at least 70%, so that in the event of deposits forming in the respective gap S, significantly less motor force is required to release a jamming of the flap 18 caused by such deposits. The motor is, for example, an electric motor by which the shaft 16 and, via the shaft 16, the flap 18 can be driven and thus rotated about the axis of rotation D relative to the housing 12.

[0046] Each length section L1 is assigned a bearing 30, which is designed separately from the flap 18, separately from the housing 12, and separately from the shaft 16. The length sections L1 are rotatably mounted on the housing 12 via the bearings 30, so that the shaft 16 and the bearings 30 are rotatably mounted on the housing 12 along their length sections L1. Reference symbol list 10 flap mechanism 12 cases 14 Arrow 16 wave 18th flap 20 flap section 22 flap section 24 Arrow 26 Additional element 28 Exclusion A recording D axis of rotation D K Channel M1 inner circumferential surface M2 inner circumferential surface O disclosure Q Flow cross-section S gap ST Closed position TB1 Sub-area TB2 Sub-area W wall area Z1 Additional part Z2 Additional part

Claims

[1] A flap device (10) for a vehicle, comprising a housing (12) which has a channel (K) through which a fluid can flow, a shaft (16) rotatable about an axis of rotation (D) relative to the housing (12), and a flap (18) which is non-rotatably connected to the shaft (16) about the axis of rotation (D) relative to the housing (12) and which is rotatable with the shaft (16) about the axis of rotation (D) relative to the housing (12) between a closed position (ST) which fluidically blocks at least a partial area (TB1, TB2) of a flow cross-section (Q) of the channel (K) through which the fluid can flow and at least an open position (O) which releases at least the partial area (TB1, TB2), characterized by , that: - the shaft (16) has at least one first length section (L1) arranged in a corresponding receptacle (A) of the housing (12), the receptacle (A) of which opens into the channel (K) when considering only the housing (12). The first length section (L1) has a first outer diameter and a second length section (L2) extending axially from the shaft (16) towards the flap (18) and the channel (K), with a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter. - at least part of the second length range (L2) is arranged in the recording (A); - at least one additional element (26) is provided, which is formed separately from the shaft (16) and separately from the flap (18) and is connected to the shaft (16) in a rotationally fixed manner, which is arranged at least partially in the part of the second length range (L2) and extends outwards in the radial direction of the shaft (16) so far away from the shaft (16) that the additional element (26) ends outwards in the radial direction of the shaft (16) at the first outer diameter; - in a plane in which the flow cross-section (Q) runs, and in the radial direction of the shaft (16), on both sides of the part of the second length region (L2), a gap (S) extending in the plane and arranged in the radial direction of the shaft (16) between the part of the second length region (L2) and a respective wall region (W) of the housing (12) partially limiting the intake (A) is arranged as a respective part of the intake (A); wherein - the additional element in the closed position (ST) of the flap (18) at least predominantly fluidically blocks the respective gap (S), and wherein the additional element (26) in the open position (O) of the flap (18) releases the respective gap (S) which opens into the channel (K). [2] Valve device (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the additional element (26) is arranged in the axial direction of the shaft (16) in extension of the flap (18) following the flap (18). [3] Valve device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the additional element (26) is designed in the shape of a disc or plate. [4] Valve device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the additional element (26) is made of a metallic material or of a plastic. [5] Valve device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the additional element (26) extends in the axial direction of the shaft (16) over the entire part of the second length range (L2) arranged in the receptacle (A). [6] Valve device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the additional element (26) is partially arranged in a recess (28) of the shaft (16). [7] Valve device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the first length section (L1) is rotatably mounted on the housing (12) via a bearing (30) which is designed separately from the shaft and separately from the housing. [8] Vehicle, comprising at least one flap device (10) according to any of the preceding claims.

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