Vehicle roof for a motor vehicle with sensor device and method for mounting a sensor device on a vehicle roof

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle roof (10) for a motor vehicle with a glass roof area, which has a glass pane (12) with an overmolding (14) and / or foaming on a corresponding socket (16) for the glass pane (12), wherein the glass pane (12) has a through-opening (18) for a cable for a sensor device (20), via which a fastening element (22) for the sensor device (20) is injection-molded onto a fastening area. The invention further relates to a method.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a vehicle roof for a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for mounting a sensor device with a cover.

[0002] For passenger cars, a variety of vehicle roofs are known that feature an integrated glass pane. Such vehicle roofs, commonly known as panoramic glass roofs, have, for example, at least one openable glass pane section and at least one fixed glass pane section. Also known are glass roofs that cannot be opened and whose glass pane can be shaded with a switchable film.

[0003] From WO 2021 / 008 728 A1, a vehicle roof for a motor vehicle with a glass roof area is already known, which has a glass pane with a foam coating on a corresponding frame for the glass pane.

[0004] DE 10 2017 220 732 A1 discloses a vehicle roof for a motor vehicle with a glass roof area which has a glass pane, wherein the glass pane has a passage opening for cabling.

[0005] The object of the invention is to make the positioning of sensor devices on glass panes as simple as possible, while taking particular account of safety measures against weather damage.

[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention by a vehicle roof having the features of claim 1 and by a method having the features of claim 10. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

[0007] One aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle roof for a motor vehicle with a glass roof area, which has a glass pane with an outer peripheral overmolding or foam coating on a corresponding frame for the glass pane.

[0008] Alternatively, only the frame or a passage for the glass pane can be injection-molded, molded-on, overmolded, or foam-enclosed; the glass pane would therefore be ground along its outer circumference, for example. In addition, the glass pane is provided with a passage opening or cutout through which wiring for a sensor device can be passed, via which a fastening element for the sensor device is injection-molded or foam-enclosed to a mounting area.

[0009] In other words, a vehicle roof for a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger car, can be provided with a glass roof area that, for example, has a glass pane with an overmolding or foam coating on a suitable frame for the glass pane. The glass pane has a through-opening for the wiring of the sensor device, so that wiring or a cable feedthrough, or even, for example, a hose for cleaning and / or cooling, can be passed through the through-opening. Furthermore, it is provided to attach a fastening element and / or a cover to the glass pane and above the through-opening.

[0010] It is possible to overmold or foam-coat glass panes with plastic to create a high-quality appearance and improve sealing at the interfaces. Using such a plastic, adhesive, overmold, or foam material, a particularly round through-opening for cabling or cable feedthroughs for sensors or sensor devices can be created or fixed. However, the through-opening can also have a more complex contour. In this case, it is also possible to attach a fastening element in this area using the overmold, foam, or plastic or adhesive, by means of which the sensor device can be attached.The through-opening is thus designed for the alignment, pre-fixing, or attachment of the external component or sensor device. The sensor device can be designed in particular as a camera, sensors, for example, lidar or radar, or antennas on a glass roof or on a glass roof outer skin. By attaching or fixing the fastening element in the exterior area or on the glass roof, positioning of the sensor device is possible, thereby enabling improved installation of such a sensor device and improved use of this sensor device.

[0011] One example would be the positioning or installation of a rear-view camera for Level 2+ or Level 3+ autonomous driving on the vehicle roof. Using this proposed vehicle roof design, a mount for the sensor device and a cover or hood could be injection-molded, glued, clipped, or screwed onto the glass element. During the assembly phase, the sensor or sensor device can then be attached, and the hood can be secured with additional adhesive if necessary until the adhesive has fully cured. A particular advantage of this design is the simple installation and reliable bonding of the respective components to the glass roof area or onto the glass pane, as well as the wiring through the opening, without the possibility of weather damage due to the overmolding or foam encapsulation.

[0012] Furthermore, it is possible to arrange the sensor device on both parts of an openable and a fixed glass pane, depending on the design. Also known are glass roofs that cannot be opened and whose glass pane can be shaded with the switchable film, on which such a sensor device can be arranged.

[0013] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the fastening element has an inherent curvature that corresponds to the curvature of the glass pane in the fastening area. Accordingly, the fastening element has a suitable curvature, which ensures that the fastening element fits particularly well on the glass pane and improves bonding.

[0014] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor device can be attached to the fastening element in a non-destructive manner, either detachably or permanently. Accordingly, it is possible to first attach and attach the fastening element to the glass pane, and then to attach the sensor device to the fastening element. Positioning on the fastening element is also possible, so that the sensor device can be positioned independently of the fastening element in such a way that a particularly advantageous alignment of sensor signals is enabled.

[0015] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, a seal or sealing adhesive for a cover for the sensor device is bonded to the glass pane around the fastening element on the outer circumference. Accordingly, this sealing adhesive is used to adhere or fasten the cover, which is designed to protect the sensor device, without it falling off over time. In particular, sealing adhesive or other adhesive options or other fastening options are used for this purpose. In addition to sealing adhesive, double-sided adhesive tapes or other designs could also be possible, whereby not only the sealing against weather damage but also the bonding is paramount.

[0016] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the hood can also be fastened to the fastening element and / or to the sensor device, accordingly the hood is not only glued or fastened by the sealing adhesive, but is also fastened to the fastening element or to the sensor device, thereby enabling an improved fastening option and also a coherent aesthetically pleasing design of the respective components.

[0017] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor device can be attached to the fastening element by means of a locking element. Accordingly, the sensor device is not glued to the fastening element, but rather can be attached by means of the locking element or a screw element or other elements. In particular, it is possible to subsequently disassemble the sensor device or remove it from the fastening element without destroying it or having to use a new component.

[0018] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor device can be non-destructively detachably or permanently bonded to the fastening element. For this purpose, the sensor device or the fastening element comprises respective clip elements that can be clipped or clipped into a corresponding socket in the other component. This makes it possible to clip the sensor device to the fastening element and, if necessary, remove it again without risking damage to the components.

[0019] In yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor device has at least one guide element for attachment to the fastening element. This allows the sensor device to be positioned on the fastening element, thereby enabling the alignment of sensor signals from the sensor device to be configured particularly advantageously. In particular, it is also possible to configure the attachment using the guide elements in such a way that various positionings of the sensor device relative to the fastening element are possible.

[0020] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, a plurality of guide elements designed as guide pins are arranged. The various guide pins make it possible to arrange the sensor device in a predetermined position on the fastening element, so that the predetermined alignment is possible depending on the fastening element's attachment to the glass pane.

[0021] A further aspect of the invention relates to a method for mounting a sensor device on a glass pane with an outer peripheral overmolding or foam coating for arrangement on a corresponding frame for the glass pane in a glass area of ​​a vehicle roof for a motor vehicle. The method provides for a wiring for the sensor device to be passed through a through-opening in the glass pane, and a fastening element for the sensor device to be injection-molded onto a fastening area.

[0022] Further features of the invention emerge from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the figures, can be used not only in the respective specified combination, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0023] The invention will now be explained in more detail using a preferred embodiment and with reference to the drawings. It shows: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a vehicle roof with a mountable sensor device; Fig. 2 shows a further schematic perspective view of a fastening element on a glass roof; Fig. 3 one to Fig. 2 corresponding cross-section of the fastening element; Fig. 4 shows a further schematic perspective view of the vehicle roof with a further embodiment of the fastening element; and Fig. 5 one to Fig. 4 corresponding cross-section of the fastening element.

[0024] In the figure, identical and functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0025] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a vehicle roof 10 for a motor vehicle. This vehicle roof 10 comprises a glass roof area having a glass pane 12. The glass pane 12 is attached to a corresponding frame 16 with an outer peripheral overmolding 14 or foam coating. The glass pane 12 is formed with a through-opening 18, which is manufactured or arranged for the wiring of a sensor device 20. This sensor device 20 is attached to a mounting area by injection molding via a fastening element 22.

[0026] The fastening element has respective fastening options for attaching or non-destructively detaching the sensor device 20.

[0027] It is possible for the fastening element 22 to have a curvature, or rather an inherent curvature, that corresponds to the curvature of the glass pane 12 in the fastening area. This enables a particularly precise adjustment and fastening of the fastening element 22 to the glass pane 12.

[0028] Furthermore, the sensor device 20 can be non-destructively and removably attached to the fastening element 22, thereby enabling flexibility in assembly, and the sensor device 20 can be easily replaced if necessary. A sealing adhesive 25 is provided around the fastening element 22 in order to fasten a cover 24 for the sensor device 20 to the glass pane 12. The cover 24 can also be fastened to the fastening element 22 and / or to the sensor device 20 by means of the sealing adhesive 25, in particular fastened in a non-destructively and removably manner; for example, solvents can loosen the bond. Furthermore, the sensor device 20 can also be fastened to the fastening element 22 by means of a locking element 26.

[0029] For the fastening of the sensor device 20 to the fastening element 22, various possibilities can be used, for example the use of a locking element 26 or the use of a detachable clip. Accordingly, Fig. 1 shows a sensor device 20 which can be releasably clipped to the fastening element 22.

[0030] Furthermore, the sensor device 20 comprises guide elements 28 that enable secure positioning on the fastening element 22. These guide elements 28 are shown in the form of guide pins. By using these guide pins as the guide elements 28, it is possible to position the sensor device 20 such that sensor signals are emitted in a predetermined direction.

[0031] In summary, this construction enables particularly reliable fastening and sealing of the sensor device 20 to the vehicle roof 10 and also enables flexible installation and maintenance of the sensor device 22.

[0032] Fig. 2 shows a further schematic perspective view of the fastening element 22 on a glass roof or on the glass pane 12, which has the through-opening 18 into which the fastening element 22 is inserted. The fastening element 22 is inserted into the through-opening 18 on the outer circumference, whereby the glass pane 12 and the fastening element 22 form a substantially planar plane or a curved surface that corresponds to an outer roof skin. Alternatively, a region of the fastening element 22 can be inserted into the through-opening 18; alternatively, the fastening element 22 can be formed in two or more parts, wherein respective parts or partial regions can be combined to form the fastening element 22, which can, however, be individually fastened, adhesively bonded, or otherwise attached to the glass pane 12.

[0033] Alternatively, the fastening element 22 can also be molded directly onto the glass pane 12. In this case, the use of a two-component adhesive or a similar compound would be possible, with the fastening element 22 being molded at least partially, in particular completely, onto a surface facing the glass pane 12 and placed and bonded to the glass pane 12. Furthermore, the fastening element 22 can be molded using a corresponding tool and inserted into a cutout in the glass roof 12.

[0034] Accordingly, the fastening element 22 is inserted into the passage opening 18 and overmolded and fastened. The fastening element 22 comprises Fig. 2 respective alignment openings 30 for fastening and aligning the sensor device 20 to the fastening element 22. Furthermore, the fastening element 22 also comprises its own locking elements 26 in the form of clip elements for clipping the sensor device 20 to the fastening element 22. The fastening element 22 itself has a passage opening 32 through which the cabling or other objects can be passed.

[0035] Fig. 3 shows the Fig. 2 corresponding cross sections V1, V2 of the fastening element 22, through which the passage opening 32 and the alignment openings 30 are shown in a first cross section V1. Here, the fastening element 22 is shown at the same height as the glass pane 12. An overmolding 14 or foam coating holds the fastening element 22 in the passage opening 18.

[0036] In a second cross section V2, which is oriented in particular at right angles to the first cross section V1, the locking elements 26 are clearly shown. These locking elements are barb-shaped and are arranged on the fastening element 22 for clipping the sensor device 20. Further embodiments of such locking elements 26 are also possible; for example, the fastening element 22 could also have receiving openings corresponding to such locking elements 26 in order to arrange these locking elements 26 on the sensor device 20.

[0037] Fig. Fig. 4 shows a further schematic perspective view of the vehicle roof 10 with a further embodiment of the fastening element 22 on which respective individual clip elements 34 are arranged and are designed to be clipped into respective corresponding receiving openings on the sensor device 20. Furthermore, it is provided here that a first region 22a of the fastening element 22 rests above the glass pane 12 and a second region 22b, which in the Fig. 4 is not visible, can be arranged in the passage opening 18 and can be overmolded or foamed on the outer circumference for fastening. Furthermore, the fastening element 22 can be designed to be flush or cover the outer / inner side of the glass pane 12.

[0038] Fig. 5 to Fig.4 corresponding cross sections V1, V2 of the fastening element 22 with the first region 22a and the second region 22b, wherein respective contact surfaces of both regions 22a, 22b with the glass pane 12 can have the overmolding 14 or foam coating.

[0039] In summary, the invention proposes a connection concept for sensors or sensor devices or antennas on a glass roof or on a glass roof outer skin. List of reference symbols 10 Vehicle roof 12 glass pane 14 Overmolding 16th version 18 Passage opening 20 Sensor device 22 Fastening element 22a, 22b areas 24 hood 25 Sealing bonding 26 Locking element 28 Guide element 30 alignment opening 32 passage opening V1, V2 cross sections

Claims

[1] Vehicle roof (10) for a motor vehicle with a glass roof area, which has a glass pane (12) with an overmolding (14) and / or foam coating on a corresponding frame (16) for the glass pane (12), characterized by that the glass pane (12) has a passage opening (18) for a wiring for a sensor device (20), via which a fastening element (22) for the sensor device (20) is injection-molded onto a fastening area. [2] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 1, characterized by that the fastening element (22) has an intrinsic curvature corresponding to a curvature of the glass pane (12) in the fastening region. [3] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the sensor device (20) can be non-destructively detachably or permanently fastened to the fastening element (22). [4] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat an outer peripheral seal or sealing adhesive (25) for a hood (24) for the sensor device (20) is glued to the glass pane (12) around the fastening element (22). [5] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 4, characterized by that the hood (24) can also be fastened to the fastening element (22) and / or to the sensor device (20). [6] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sensor device (20) can be fastened to the fastening element (22) by means of a locking element (26). [7] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sensor device (20) can be releasably clipped to the fastening element (22). [8] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sensor device (20) has at least one guide element (28) for attachment to the fastening element (22). [9] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 8, characterized by that a plurality of guide elements (28) designed as guide pins are arranged. [10] Method for mounting a sensor device (20) on a glass pane (12) with an overmolding (14) and / or foam coating for arrangement on a corresponding frame for the glass pane (12) in a glass roof area of ​​a vehicle roof (10) for a motor vehicle, in which a wiring for the sensor device (20) is passed through a passage opening (18) on the glass pane (12) and a fastening element (22) for the sensor device (20) is attached by injection molding to a fastening area.

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