Opening vehicle roof

Abstract

The invention relates to an openable vehicle roof, comprising a roof element and a cover movable relative to the roof element, via which a roof opening formed in the vehicle roof can be at least partially opened and closed upon relative movement of the cover to the roof element into different positions, and a sensor configured to detect a position or change in position of the cover with respect to the roof element by the sensor detecting the presence of a detection element located within a predetermined distance from the sensor, wherein one element of the sensor and the detection element is arranged on the roof element side and the other element of the sensor and the detection element is arranged on the cover side, wherein the sensor is configured to detect the presence of the detection element, 1. in that the detection element is designed as a magnet or made of ferromagnetic material and is integrally connected to an element of the cover or is formed monolithically from the element of the cover and the sensor is attached to the roof element and, in cooperation with the detection element, detects the position or change in position of the cover in relation to the roof element, or 2. by the sensor being formed by a magnetic field sensor and the detection element formed as a magnet detects on the basis of electromagnetic induction, or 3. by forming the sensor by an inductive sensor and detecting the detection element formed of ferromagnetic material based on a change in inductance.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an openable vehicle roof with at least one cover that can be moved into different positions relative to a roof element.

[0002] Such openable vehicle roofs are widely known as openable or opening panoramic or sliding roofs for vehicles such as motor vehicles from the state of the art.

[0003] For example, in the case of openable panoramic roofs, a translucent cover, for example in the form of a glass element or glass cover, is mounted so that it can be moved into different positions by means of a bearing device.

[0004] In a conventional panoramic roof design, the cover can be moved between a closed position covering a roof opening, a ventilation position with the rear edge of the cover raised relative to an adjacent and fixed roof section, and an open position in which the cover is positioned above the adjacent and fixed roof section. The adjacent and fixed roof section is formed, for example, by an adjacent fixed roof element such as a fixed glass element or glass cover.

[0005] Conventionally, a sensor is also provided that detects the position or a change in position of the cover relative to the adjacent roof element. For example, the sensor can detect a change in position of the cover by non-contacting the presence or absence of a detection element located within a predetermined distance from the sensor. For this purpose, the sensor is typically arranged on the (roof) body side or on the roof element side, while the detection element to be detected is arranged on the cover that is movable relative to the roof element, i.e., on the cover side.

[0006] One specific application where the position of the lid is necessary is, for example, the activation and deactivation of a lighting device provided in the front glass lid. This can be designed, for example, to perform a lighting function when the lid is in the closed position, such as ambient lighting for the vehicle interior.

[0007] However, due to legal or regulatory safety requirements, this lighting function may only be activated when the roof opening is closed, which requires reliable position detection using a sensor and detection element. Accordingly, it is necessary to reliably deactivate the lighting function when the lid equipped with this function is opened.

[0008] The prior art document DE 10 2021 112 592 A1 discloses a vehicle roof with a cover which is movably mounted on roof-side guide rails and is adjustable between a closed position in a roof opening and at least one open position along guide rails, and with a contact device which has at least one cover-side contact and at least one vehicle-side contact which establish an electrical connection to a lighting device in order to be able to supply the lighting device with power when the cover is closed.

[0009] Further prior art is represented by DE 10 2005 060 043 B3, DE 101 07 999 A1 and DE 10 2014 019 188 A1.

[0010] The invention is based on the object of providing an openable vehicle roof which enables reliable detection of a change in position or position of the movable cover.

[0011] This problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claim.

[0012] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent patent claims.

[0013] The openable vehicle roof according to the invention is preferably formed by a translucent or opaque sliding roof or a panoramic roof for a vehicle, in particular a land or water vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle. The vehicle roof according to the invention comprises a roof element and a cover movable relative to the roof element, via which a roof opening formed in the vehicle roof can be at least partially opened and closed upon movement of the cover relative to the roof element into different positions. The roof element preferably forms the roof opening at least in sections.

[0014] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention comprises a sensor which is configured to detect a position or change in position of the cover with respect to the roof element by the sensor detecting, preferably contactlessly detecting, the presence of a detection element located within a predetermined distance from the sensor.

[0015] The predetermined distance between the detection element and the sensor is a distance within which the sensor can detect the position or change in position of the lid by detecting the detection element. The predetermined distance thus defines a detection range of the sensor within which the detection of the detection element is possible.

[0016] Furthermore, one element consisting of the sensor and the detection element is arranged on the roof element side and the other element consisting of the sensor and the detection element is arranged on the cover side.

[0017] According to the invention, different designs of the vehicle roof are provided: According to a first embodiment, the sensor is configured to detect the presence of the detection element in that the detection element is designed as a magnet or from ferromagnetic material and is integrally connected to an element of the lid or is formed monolithically from the element of the lid. Preferably, the detection element is integrally connected to an inner lid sheet or is formed monolithically from the inner lid sheet. The inner lid sheet is preferably arranged on an underside of the lid, for example in the form of a glass pane, or fastened to its underside, can be designed as a sheet metal frame, and is preferably embedded at least partially or completely in a lid foam. The inner lid sheet usually serves as a reinforcement of the lid to provide the required rigidity of the lid.The detection element can thus be integrally coupled to the inner cover sheet or formed monolithically from it. In the latter case, the detection element can protrude, for example, as a projection or tab from adjacent sections of the inner cover sheet, which are intended, for example, to reinforce the cover to increase its rigidity or stability.

[0018] The detection element is thus preferably formed on the inner cover sheet, which is optionally designed as a sheet metal frame, i.e. a component which is already provided on the cover as a stiffening frame, and can be designed, for example, in the form of a date pin or information pin or a tab in order to be guided past the sensor or, in the case of a sensor with a coil, to be inserted into the coil.

[0019] For the purposes of this disclosure, integral connections are, in particular, one-piece connections that cannot be removed without destroying the connecting means or connection partners. Welding the detection element to the inner cover sheet is preferably referred to as an integral connection.

[0020] Within the scope of this disclosure, the material connection of the magnet with the element of the lid, in particular with the inner lid sheet, is to be understood as including, among other things, a connection of at least two connection partners made of different materials, which can be achieved, for example, by welding or forming processes such as pressing, forging, cold forming, etc.

[0021] In contrast to a material connection, the monolithic design of an element or component is understood in the context of this disclosure to mean that it is made in one piece from the same material.

[0022] Due to the aforementioned material connection or monolithic design of the detection element and the inner cover sheet, there are advantages compared to force- or form-fitting connections.

[0023] However, each additional component itself has tolerances, which can compromise the positioning accuracy of the sensor and detection element, especially if the detection element is designed as a separately mountable component. By reducing the number of separate, relatively positioned components through the integral connection or monolithic design of the detection element and the inner cover plate, the interaction between the sensor and detection element can be improved.

[0024] In addition, the detection element inserted into the lid foam is located in an area visible to a vehicle occupant and can also impair the lid's aesthetic appearance, which is avoided by the integral connection or monolithic design of the detection element and the lid's inner panel. Accordingly, the vehicle roof according to the invention is further optimized by the integral connection or monolithic design of the detection element and the lid's inner panel, since there are fewer components and thus fewer material pairings in the vehicle roof; for example, the provision of a detection element designed as an inserted magnet can be avoided.

[0025] Furthermore, components mounted with positive and force-fitting connections can lead to wind noise at the mounting interfaces. It's also conceivable that plugged-in components could become detached from the vehicle over time due to heat or aging, which should be avoided if possible. At the same time, however, the easy manual and deliberate removal of these components should also be prevented.

[0026] Thanks to the integral connection or monolithic design, additional components, e.g. in the form of pluggable magnets in an existing foam, can be avoided, which enables a more cost-effective production of the vehicle roof.

[0027] This means that a corresponding assembly step can be omitted, which reduces the risk of faulty assembly; for example, for the following reasons: The wiring harness for the ambient lighting or light-in-glass technology is usually designed on one side. Conventionally, when light is coupled into the glass on both sides of the glass cover, i.e. on the left and right sides of the glass cover, LED strips are also positioned on the left and right of the glass cover. For cost and space reasons, the wiring harness is designed on one side, and the respective LED strips on the left and right sides of the glass cover are then controlled via a separate transverse cable duct on the cover. Consequently, it is practical to also attach the magnetic sensor arrangement to the corresponding side, which increases process reliability.However, the corresponding PU foam (polyurethane foam) is designed symmetrically with respect to the cover, i.e. equally on the left and right sides of the cover, as this results in more uniform foam flow and fewer defects in the PU foam. Accordingly, the PU foam for the plug-in elements of the magnetic sensor arrangement, for example the detection element in the form of a magnetic element in the movable cover, is preferably also designed symmetrically. This results in the problem that respective plug-in geometries or slots are designed on both sides of the cover, on the left and right, with only one of these slots being used for operating the magnetic sensor arrangement. This means that the fitter must know the correct side of the cover, i.e. the side of the wiring harness and the sensor, in order to carry out correct assembly.

[0028] If the detection element can also be configured as a date pin, data pin, or information pin, specific information can be read from it; for example, information that allows conclusions to be drawn about the traceability of the component in the delivery or assembly process. This can simplify assembly in the factory using existing alignment elements in the form of date pins or data pins, which contributes to increased product robustness.

[0029] In particular, the date pin can have several functions, for example as the aforementioned alignment element, for identifying the lid, which is thus provided with a code, for example with product information or the information that it is an ambient light lid, etc. Thus, in addition to the function of detection by the sensor within the predetermined area, the detection element can fulfill the further function of data readability, whereby the data type can be determined depending on the application.

[0030] In addition, the material-to-material connection or monolithic design helps to prevent mechanical disassembly of the detection element, thereby preventing manipulation and intentional removal of the detection element.

[0031] In the case of a detection element designed as a magnet, the sensor is preferably a Hall sensor. It is also conceivable in this case for the sensor to be a magnetic field sensor based on magnetic induction.

[0032] According to this first embodiment, the sensor is thus attached to the roof element side or the body side and, in cooperation with the detection element attached to the cover side, detects the position or change in position of the cover in relation to the roof element.

[0033] According to a second embodiment, the sensor is configured to detect the presence of the detection element by forming the sensor by a magnetic field sensor and detecting the detection element configured as a magnet on the basis of electromagnetic induction.

[0034] In this case, the sensor has, for example, a coil body (coil) past which the detection element designed as a magnet is guided or is at least partially immersed in the latter, so that due to the movement of the detection element designed as a magnet, an electrical voltage is induced in the coil body, which is measurable and on the basis of which conclusions can be drawn to detect the presence of the detection element.

[0035] According to a third embodiment, the sensor is configured to detect the presence of the detection element in a contactless manner, in that the sensor is formed by an inductive sensor and the detection element formed from ferromagnetic material detects the presence of the detection element on the basis of a change in inductance or on the basis of a change in a magnetic field generated by the sensor.

[0036] Such inductive sensors generally operate with an inductance (open coil). This generates a magnetic field, the change in which can be detected by an object, such as the ferromagnetic detection element, that is brought into the magnetic field's range. The change in inductance or the magnetic field can be attributed in particular to the fact that eddy currents are generated in the ferromagnetic and electrically conductive detection element as it passes by, which in turn generate an opposing magnetic field in the detection element and weaken the coil's magnetic field, from which conclusions can be drawn about the detection of the detection element.

[0037] Analogously, the inductive sensor can also be designed with a coil and an iron core provided therein and protruding from the coil, onto which a ferromagnetic element such as a ferromagnetic ring or a ferromagnetic sleeve is placed, which likewise leads to a change in the generated magnetic field.

[0038] Of course, in connection with the second and third embodiments, it is also conceivable that the detection element is also materially connected to an element of the lid, for example the inner lid sheet, or is formed monolithically from the element of the lid, for example the inner lid sheet.

[0039] According to the invention, a sensor system is provided in the vehicle roof, which can reliably determine whether the roof opening is at least partially open by means of the movable cover, open a crack by means of the cover raised in the ventilation position, or closed, in particular whether the cover is moved from the closed position to the ventilation position. It is precisely by moving the cover between the closed position and the ventilation position that the detection element moves within or outside the sensor's detection range, allowing conclusions to be drawn about the position or change in position of the cover.

[0040] As already explained above, the sensor system can have a sensor designed as a magnetic field sensor, Hall sensor or inductive sensor, which is arranged on the fixed part of the roof, ie on the roof element side or (roof) body side, and a magnetic or ferromagnetic counterpart in the form of a detectable detection element, which is arranged on the part of the roof to be opened, ie on the cover element side, on the cover.

[0041] It is particularly advantageous if the ferromagnetic or magnetic detection element is integrated into an encapsulation of the lid, for example partially or completely embedded in a lid foam.

[0042] The detection element, designed as a magnet, can in particular be a ferromagnetic, diamagnetic, or paramagnetic permanent magnet. Alternatively, a controllable electromagnet can also be provided as the detection element.

[0043] Preferably, the detection element, designed as a magnet, is implemented as a ferromagnetic permanent magnet and enclosed in the foamed cover, thus being out of the field of vision of the vehicle occupants. Accordingly, deliberate manipulation or damage to the sensor by detaching the detection element can be largely prevented, resulting in greater product robustness.

[0044] The vehicle roof according to the invention can advantageously be designed such that the sensor formed by the Hall sensor or magnetic field sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element designed as a magnet is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element at least partially forms a magnetic projection on an underside of the cover.

[0045] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be realized in such a way that the sensor formed by the inductive sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element formed from ferromagnetic material is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element at least partially forms a ferromagnetic projection on an underside of the cover.

[0046] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be implemented in such a way that the sensor formed by the inductive sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element formed from ferromagnetic material is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element is formed by a ferromagnetic hollow cylinder which is formed monolithically from the cover inner sheet or is integrally connected to the cover inner sheet.

[0047] In this context, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be realized in such a way that the sensor formed by the inductive sensor has a coil body (coil) which has a coil axis which is aligned substantially parallel to the vehicle height direction, preferably exactly parallel or at a predetermined acute angle to a z-axis of the vehicle coordinate system.

[0048] Alternatively, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be designed such that the sensor formed by the inductive sensor has a coil body which has a coil axis which is aligned substantially parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction, preferably exactly parallel or at a predetermined acute angle to an x-axis of the vehicle coordinate system.

[0049] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be further developed if the detection element is formed by a ferromagnetic hollow cylinder, such that the sensor formed by the inductive sensor has the coil body with a coil core accommodated therein, which protrudes beyond the coil body and can be inserted into the ferromagnetic hollow cylinder when the cover is within the predetermined distance. For example, the coil core can be inserted into the hollow cylinder when the cover is in its closed position, while the coil core is guided out of the hollow cylinder when the cover is moved from the closed position to the ventilation position.

[0050] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be designed such that the sensor is held by means of a roof element-side sensor holder which is formed monolithically from a section or projection of a foam embedding the roof element or is fastened to the foam embedding the roof element by means of a material, form-fitting and / or force-fitting connection.

[0051] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be implemented such that the sensor and / or the detection element are arranged in a corner section of a frame-like, single- or multi-part inner cover panel. In principle, the sensor and detection element can be arranged at any location on the inner cover panel. However, their arrangement at a rear corner section is advantageous in that both elements (sensor and detection element) are arranged concealed at the corner section; in particular, their arrangement at a rear corner section is preferred because, when moving from the closed position to the ventilation position, the cover initially lifts the rear corners or corner sections, so that detection can be performed at the point where the first initial movement of the cover occurs.However, detecting the movement of the lid at the front corner sections would be more difficult, since the relative movement of the lid section to the fixed roof element or the body initially only represents a change in angle when the lid is moved from its closed position to its ventilated position, making detection more difficult. Accordingly, one of the rear corner sections is preferred for the location of the sensor and detection element, since there, a greater relative movement of the lid occurs compared to the front corner sections and these are not within the field of vision and manipulation of the vehicle occupant.

[0052] Furthermore, the vehicle roof according to the invention can be further developed such that the sensor is configured to detect a change in position of the cover from a closed position to a ventilation or open position in relation to the roof opening, wherein the vehicle roof further comprises a control device configured to receive detection signals from the sensor, and a lighting device arranged in the cover and activatable and deactivatable via the control device, wherein the control device is configured to deactivate the lighting device upon detection of a position from the closed position and the open position, and to activate the lighting device upon detection of another position from the closed position and the open position.

[0053] The vehicle according to the invention, preferably a motor vehicle, comprises the vehicle roof according to the invention.

[0054] As a result, the properties and advantages explained in connection with the vehicle roof according to the invention result in the same or similar way, which is why, in order to avoid repetition, reference is made to the above statements in connection with the vehicle roof according to the invention.

[0055] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained below by way of example with reference to the figures.

[0056] They show: Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of an openable vehicle roof according to the invention with a cover arranged in a roof opening in a closed position; Fig. 2 in an isometric view the openable vehicle roof of Fig. 1, wherein the lid is pivoted out with its rear edge into a ventilation position; Fig. 3 in an isometric view the openable vehicle roof of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, wherein the extended lid is displaced rearward into an open position; Fig. 4a a schematic representation of an underside of the cover of the vehicle roof of the Fig. 1 to 3; and Fig. 4b a schematic representation of a section of Fig. 4a, which shows a section of the underside of the lid; Fig. 5 a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a first embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6 a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a second embodiment of the invention; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a third embodiment of the invention; Fig. 8a is a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a fourth embodiment of the invention; Fig. 8b a further schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof according to the invention of Fig. 8a in a longitudinal section according to the fourth embodiment of the invention; Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof in a longitudinal section according to a fifth embodiment of the invention; and Fig. 10 a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a sixth embodiment of the invention.

[0057] Fig. Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an openable vehicle roof 10 according to the invention with a cover 24 which is mounted in a roof opening 11 (see Fig. 3) is arranged in a closed position. Furthermore, Fig. 2 in an isometric view the openable vehicle roof 10 of Fig. 1, wherein the cover 24 is pivoted out with its rear edge or its rear edge 25 into a ventilation position or is raised relative to a fixed roof element 14. Furthermore, in Fig. 3 in an isometric view the openable vehicle roof 10 of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, wherein the extended cover 24 is displaced into an open position rearwardly over the fixed roof element 14.

[0058] As in the Fig. 1 to 3, the openable or openable vehicle roof 10 according to the invention is, in the case shown, an openable and translucent panoramic roof for a motor vehicle such as a passenger car.

[0059] The vehicle roof 10 comprises a fixed roof element 14 in the form of a fixed glass element (glass cover) or a fixed rear cover and a front cover 24 which is movable relative to the roof element 14 and is in the form of a movable glass element or a movable glass pane (glass cover), via which - as mentioned above - the roof opening 11 formed in the vehicle roof can be at least partially opened and closed when the cover 24 moves relative to the roof element 14 into different positions.

[0060] As in particular the Fig. 1 to 3, the front cover 24 is from a closed position as shown in Fig. 1 is shown, can be lifted by means of a roof mechanism or storage device not described in detail and can be adjusted to a ventilation position, as shown in Fig. 2, and from the ventilation position with raised rear edge 25 over a roof section 15 adjoining the roof opening 11 in the vehicle or roof longitudinal direction L, which in the illustrated case is formed by the fixed roof element 14 in the form of the rear cover, into an open position, as shown in Fig. 3 is illustrated.

[0061] Such a roof is also widely referred to as a spoiler roof.

[0062] The rear roof section 15 can, in principle, be formed as a fixed roof surface or with a movable roof part or roof element. In the illustrated case, however, the roof section 15 contains the fixed roof element 14 in the form of the rear cover or glass cover.

[0063] The axis and direction designations used in the description, such as "front" and "rear", "top" and "bottom", "outside" and "inside", "horizontal" and "vertical", as well as "lateral", "transverse" and "longitudinal" or in the transverse and longitudinal directions, refer to a conventional three-dimensional xyz vehicle coordinate system. The front cover 24 is movable on both sides of the roof opening 11 by means of a front bearing device 8 arranged below its front area 7 along a lateral longitudinal guide arranged on the roof, such as a front guide rail 9 (in Fig. 3 only the left-hand guide rail 9 is shown) and by means of a rear bearing device into its ventilation and spoiler position (see Fig. 2) can be swung out and in the swung out position along a rear guide rail to the rear over the rear fixed roof element 14 (glass cover) ( Fig. 3).

[0064] The roof structure is largely symmetrical to a longitudinal center line of the vehicle roof 10. Between a windscreen (not shown) and the front cover 24 extends a front roof surface 13, which is formed by a roof section 12 on the vehicle body side.

[0065] As will be explained in more detail below, the cover 24 in the form of a glass cover has a lighting device 28. This is supplied with power by means of a power supply (not shown) in order to perform a lighting function in an activated state and to adjust the lighting function in a deactivated state.

[0066] Furthermore, a control device (not shown) is provided, which is configured to receive detection signals from a sensor 34, which will be explained in more detail below. The lighting device 28 integrated in the cover 24 can be activated and deactivated via the control device. Accordingly, the control device can deactivate the lighting device 28 upon detecting a position change from the closed position to the open position, and activate the lighting device 28 upon detecting a position change from the open position to the closed position.

[0067] Fig. 4a shows a schematic representation of an underside of the front cover 24 of the vehicle roof 10 of the Fig. 1 to 3, whereas Fig. 4b a schematic representation of a section of Fig. 4a, which shows a section of the underside of the front cover 24.

[0068] As can be seen in particular from the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b, a frame-like element of the cover 24, namely a frame-like inner cover plate 30, is fastened to the underside of the front cover 24. This inner cover plate 30 has, among other things, the function of providing sufficient rigidity for the cover 24. For example, the inner cover plate 30 assumes a supporting function for a glass pane of the cover. In particular, the inner cover plate 30 contributes to the rigidity and stability of the glass pane of the cover, which is particularly useful when using laminated safety glass (VSG), i.e., laminated safety glass, as the glass pane of the cover, since VSG is extremely unstable. The inner cover plate 30 contributes in particular to the rigidity and stability of the glass pane of the cover 24 when it is designed with a curvature in order to be able to produce the cover together with the glass pane within very small curvature tolerance fields.But the inner cover panel 30 also serves to increase or maintain the rigidity of the vehicle roof in the event of a vehicle crash. In particular, the inner cover panel 30 forms a cover frame, via which the cover 24, including the glass pane, is connected to the bearing device, which in turn can be attached to a vehicle-side or body-side roof frame or body-side cover support.

[0069] In this case, the inner cover plate 30 is made up of several parts and is designed as a sheet metal frame and has Fig. 4a has four inner cover sheet metal frame parts 301, 302, 303 and 304, which, when assembled, form a closed, approximately rectangular frame. Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b shows a purely schematic section of the inner lid sheet 30, namely a corner section at the rear edge 25 of the inner lid sheet 30, on which a detection element 34, described in more detail below, and the associated sensor 35 are arranged.

[0070] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. 5 shown section in the Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b shown corner section in a longitudinal section through components of the vehicle roof 10 explained in more detail below.

[0071] In the illustrated case, the cover 24 is moved relative to the fixed roof element 14 from the closed position of Fig. 1 into the ventilation position of Fig. 2 and is accordingly slightly raised with its rear edge 25 relative to the fixed roof element 14.

[0072] As from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the vehicle roof 10 comprises the roof element 14 (glass cover) formed in the form of a fixed glass element, as well as the front cover 24 (glass cover) which is movable in the form of the glass element relative to the roof element 14 and via which the roof opening 11 formed in the vehicle roof 10 can be at least partially opened and closed upon movement of the front cover 24 relative to the roof element 14 into different positions. The cover 24 essentially comprises two panes or glass elements 26 with the aforementioned lighting device 28 provided between the panes 26. In particular, the cover 24 in the form of the glass cover comprises a laminated glass, preferably VSG (laminated safety glass), or several ESG (tempered safety glass) panels or plastic glass such as polycarbonate glass, acrylic glass, or transparent polyurethane glass, etc.

[0073] In particular, the term glass cover in the context of this disclosure includes transparent panes or panes made of predominantly transparent material, but also non-transparent panes made of laminate or pane laminate, which, instead of the lighting device 28 mentioned above and mentioned as an example, may also have solar cells or electrically switchable elements for shading (switchable glass), a display, etc.

[0074] In this preferred embodiment, however, the glass cover is equipped with the lighting device 28, thus has at least one light-conducting layer and is preferably designed as laminated glass.

[0075] The cover 24 is embedded in a cover foam 32, at least on its underside and edge sections. In particular, the cover foam 32 covers an edge of the cover 24 that faces the fixed roof element 14 in the form of the glass cover, as well as a section on the underside of the cover 24 that faces a vehicle interior. Preferably, the cover foam 32 is mirror-symmetrical with respect to the vehicle's longitudinal axis L, with the exception of the area in which the detection element 34 is accommodated, which is only required on one side of the cover.

[0076] Furthermore, at least a section of the frame-like inner cover sheet 30 is embedded in the cover foam 32 on the underside of the cover.

[0077] In the case shown by Fig. 5, the inner lid sheet 30 is only partially embedded in the lid foam 32, and an end section of the inner lid sheet 30 protrudes from the lid foam 32 and is thus exposed. This end section of the inner lid sheet 30 forms a detection element 34, described in more detail below, which can be detected by the sensor 35.

[0078] Furthermore, the vehicle roof 10 has the sensor 35, which is configured to detect a position or change in position of the cover 24 with respect to the fixed roof element 14 using the detection element 34.

[0079] In the illustrated case, the sensor 34 is held by a roof element-side sensor holder 36, which is fastened by means of a positive and non-positive connection to a foam encapsulating the roof element 14, in particular to a section 22 of the foam encapsulating 16 extending below the cover 24. In particular, the fixed roof element 14 is embedded in the foam encapsulating 16 at its front edge 20 (front edge), which faces the cover 24 or the rear edge 25 of the cover 24, and which extends forward with the projection-like section 22 toward the cover 24. The foam encapsulating 16 of the fixed roof element 14 thus extends with the section 22, together with the holder 36, below the cover 24 into the area of ​​the detection element 34.

[0080] For example, the positive and non-positive connection of the sensor holder 36 is formed by a coupling projection 38 and a coupling opening 18, wherein the coupling projection 38 engages in the coupling opening 18 in a positive and non-positive manner, for example in the manner of a dovetail connection.

[0081] Thus, in the case shown, the sensor 35 is arranged on the roof element side or roof body side and the detection element 34 is arranged on the cover side.

[0082] The sensor 35 and the detection element 34 are positioned in the closed position of the lid 24 such that the sensor 24 can detect the presence or absence of the detection element 34 located within a predetermined distance from the sensor 24 without contact, for example when the lid 24 moves from its closed position to the ventilation position.

[0083] The sensor 35 for contactless detection of the detection element 34 can be designed in different ways.

[0084] In particular, the sensor 35 can be formed by a Hall sensor, a magnetic field sensor or an inductive sensor, wherein the detection element 34 is designed accordingly depending on the type of sensor.

[0085] In the first embodiment, the detection element 34 is formed integrally with the inner cover plate 30. Depending on the type of sensor 35, the detection element 34 is formed integrally with the inner cover plate 30 in different ways. Thus, the detection element 34 is in the form of a magnet and materially connected to the inner cover plate 30 if the sensor 35 is formed by a Hall sensor or a magnetic field sensor, while the detection element 34 is monolithic, i.e., formed from the same material as the inner cover plate 30, if the inner cover plate 30 is formed from ferromagnetic material and the sensor 35 is formed by an inductive sensor.

[0086] As in Fig. 5, the detection element 34, depending on the design, thus at least partially forms a magnetic projection 40 or a ferromagnetic projection 40 on a lid underside.

[0087] Depending on the design of the detection element 30 (as a magnet or monolithic component of the inner cover sheet 30 made of ferromagnetic material), a specific type of sensor must be used.

[0088] In the case of a detection element 34 designed as a magnet, the sensor is formed, for example, by a Hall sensor known from the prior art, which is fastened on the roof element side, for example by means of the holder 36, and in cooperation with the detection element 34 detects the position or change in position of the cover 24 with respect to the roof element 14.

[0089] Alternatively, in the case of a detection element 30 designed as a magnet, the sensor 35 can be formed by a magnetic field sensor which can detect the magnetic detection element 30 on the basis of electromagnetic induction.

[0090] If the detection element 30 is formed as a monolithic component of the inner cover sheet 30 made of ferromagnetic material, the sensor 35 is preferably formed by an inductive sensor that can detect the detection element 34 on the basis of a change in inductance.

[0091] As continued in Fig. 5, the sensor 35, if it is formed by the inductive sensor or magnetic field sensor, has a coil body 39 (coil) which has a coil axis a which is aligned substantially parallel to the vehicle height direction H or exactly parallel to the vehicle height direction H, i.e. to a z-axis of the vehicle coordinate system. It can be provided that the detection element 34, which is designed as a magnet or from ferromagnetic material, is brought up to a coil body end face in the closed position of the cover 24 without touching it, or is immersed in the coil body 36.

[0092] Due to the above embodiments, the sensor 34 is thus configured to detect a change in position from a closed position of the lid to an open position of the lid 24.

[0093] As already mentioned above, the vehicle roof 10 further comprises the control device (not shown), which is configured to receive detection signals from the sensor 34, wherein the lighting device 28 integrated in the cover 24 can be activated and deactivated via the control device.

[0094] Accordingly, the control device can deactivate the lighting device 28 upon detecting a change in position from the closed position to the open position and activate the lighting device 28 upon detecting a change in position from the open position to the closed position.

[0095] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0096] In order to avoid repetition, the description of this second embodiment will only focus on the differences from the first embodiment described above, with the same components being designated by the same reference numerals.

[0097] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the sensor 35 is held by means of a roof element-side sensor holder 36, which is formed monolithically from the projection-like section 22 of the foam 16 embedding the roof element 14.

[0098] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0099] In order to avoid repetition, the description of this third embodiment will only focus on the differences from the second embodiment described above, with the same components being designated by the same reference numerals.

[0100] The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the inner cover plate 30 and its associated detection element 34 are completely accommodated in the cover foam 32.

[0101] Fig. Fig. 8a shows a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, while Fig. 8b a further schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 according to the invention of Fig. 8a in a longitudinal section according to the fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0102] In order to avoid repetition, the description of this fourth embodiment will only focus on the differences from the third embodiment described above, with the same components being designated by the same reference numerals.

[0103] The fourth embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that the sensor 35 is held by means of a roof element-side sensor holder 36, which is fastened by means of a positive and non-positive connection to the foam 16 embedding the fixed roof element 14.

[0104] As continued in the Fig. 8a and Fig. As can be seen schematically in Figure 8b, the sensor 35, which is preferably designed as an inductive sensor or magnetic field sensor in this case, has a coil body 39 (coil) in the form of a hollow cylinder. Fig. 8a schematically shows the ventilation position of the cover 24, in which the detection element 34 is arranged above the coil body 39, near its front side, while Fig. 8b schematically illustrates the closed position of the cover 24, in which the detection element 34 is immersed or inserted into the coil body 39.

[0105] Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 in a longitudinal section according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.

[0106] In order to avoid repetition, the description of this fifth embodiment will only focus on the differences from the fourth embodiment described above, with the same components being designated by the same reference numerals.

[0107] The fifth embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment in the structural design of the sensor 35 and the detection element 34.

[0108] In this case, the sensor 35 formed by the inductive sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element 34 formed from ferromagnetic material is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element 34 is formed by a ferromagnetic hollow cylinder which is formed monolithically from the cover inner sheet 30 or is integrally connected to the cover inner sheet 30.

[0109] In contrast, the sensor 35 formed by the inductive sensor has the coil body 39 (coil) with a coil core 37 accommodated therein, which protrudes beyond the coil body 39 and can be inserted into the ferromagnetic hollow cylinder when the cover is within the predetermined distance, for example, in the closed position of the cover 24. The coil body 39 is thus designed as a type of pin that can be inserted into the hollow cylinder.

[0110] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of a section of the vehicle roof 10 according to the invention in a longitudinal section according to a sixth embodiment of the invention.

[0111] In order to avoid repetition, the description of this sixth embodiment will only focus on the differences from the third embodiment described above, with the same components being designated by the same reference numerals.

[0112] The sixth embodiment differs from the third embodiment of Fig.7 in the orientation of the coil axis a of the coil body 39 of the sensor 35. In particular, in this case the sensor 35 formed by the inductive sensor has the coil body 39 whose coil axis is aligned essentially parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction L, i.e. essentially parallel to the x-axis of the vehicle coordinate system. Accordingly, the detection element 34 is also arranged accordingly and is only brought to the end face of the coil body 39 without being immersed in it, in order not to impede the movement of the cover 24 from the closed position into the ventilation position. In the case shown, respective sealing elements 501 and 502 are also provided on the front edge 20 of the fixed roof element 14 and on the rear edge 25 of the cover 24, which sealing elements 501 and 502, in the closed position of the cover 24, seal a gap between the front edge 20 and the rear edge 25.

[0113] The features of the invention disclosed in the above description, in the drawings and in the claims may be essential for the realization of the invention both individually and in any combination. List of reference symbols 10 Vehicle roof 11 Roof opening 12 vehicle body-side roof section 13 front roof area 14 fixed roof element (e.g. rear glass cover) 15 rear roof section 16 Foaming of the fixed roof element 18 Coupling opening 20 Front edge of the fixed roof element 22 protrusion-like section of a foam embedding the fixed roof element 24 (front) cover 25 Rear edge of the lid 26 pane elements (glass panes) 28 Lighting equipment 30 inner cover sheet 32 Lid foam 34 Detection element 35 Sensor 36 Sensor holder 37 coil core 38 coupling projection 39 coil bodies 40 magnetic or ferromagnetic projection 501 sealing element 502 sealing element H Vehicle height axis L Longitudinal axis of the vehicle a coil axis QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2021 112 592 A1

[0008] DE 10 2005 060 043 B3

[0009] DE 101 07 999 A1

[0009] DE 10 2014 019 188 A1

[0009]

Claims

[1] Openable vehicle roof (10), preferably openable panoramic roof or sliding roof for a vehicle, wherein the vehicle roof (10) has a roof element (14) and a cover (24) movable relative to the roof element (14), via which a roof opening (11) formed in the vehicle roof (10) can be at least partially opened and closed into different positions upon relative movement of the cover (24) to the roof element (14), and a sensor (35) configured to detect a position or change in position of the cover (24) relative to the roof element (14) by the sensor (24) detecting the presence of a detection element (34) located within a predetermined distance from the sensor (24), wherein one element of the sensor (35) and the detection element (34) is arranged on the roof element side and the other element of the sensor (35) and the detection element (34) is arranged on the cover side, wherein the sensor (35) is arranged to detect the presence of the detection element (34), 1. in that the detection element (34) is designed as a magnet or from ferromagnetic material and is integrally connected to an element of the cover (24) or is formed monolithically from the element of the cover and the sensor (35) is attached to the roof element side and, in cooperation with the detection element (34), detects the position or change in position of the cover (24) in relation to the roof element (14), or 2. in that the sensor (35) is formed by a magnetic field sensor and the detection element (34) designed as a magnet detects on the basis of electromagnetic induction, or 3. in that the sensor (35) is formed by an inductive sensor and the detection element (34) formed from ferromagnetic material detects on the basis of a change in inductance. [2] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 1, wherein the sensor (35) formed by a Hall sensor or magnetic field sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element (34) designed as a magnet is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element (34) at least partially forms a magnetic projection (40) on an underside of the cover (24). [3] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 1, wherein the sensor (35) formed by the inductive sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element (34) formed from ferromagnetic material is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element (34) at least partially forms a ferromagnetic projection (40) on an underside of the cover (24). [4] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the sensor (35) formed by the inductive sensor is fastened on the roof element side and the detection element (34) formed from ferromagnetic material is fastened on the cover side, wherein the detection element (34) is formed by a ferromagnetic hollow cylinder which is formed monolithically from the cover inner sheet or is integrally connected to the cover inner sheet. [5] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor (35) formed by the inductive sensor or magnetic field sensor has a coil body (39) having a coil axis (a) which is aligned substantially parallel to the vehicle height direction (H), preferably exactly parallel or at a predetermined acute angle to a z-axis of the vehicle coordinate system. [6] Vehicle roof (10) according to claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor (35) formed by the inductive sensor has a coil body (39) having a coil axis (a) which is aligned substantially parallel to the vehicle longitudinal direction, preferably exactly parallel or at a predetermined acute angle to an x-axis of the vehicle coordinate system. [7] Vehicle roof (10) according to claim 5 or 6 in conjunction with claim 4, wherein the sensor (35) formed by the inductive sensor has the coil body (39) with a coil core (37) received therein, which projects beyond the coil body (39) and can be inserted into the ferromagnetic hollow cylinder when the cover is within the predetermined distance. [8] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (35) is held by means of a roof element-side sensor holder (36) which is formed monolithically from a section or projection of a foam (22) embedding the roof element (14) or is fastened to the foam (22) embedding the roof element (14) by means of a material, form-fitting and / or force-fitting connection. [9] Vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor and / or the detection element is arranged in a corner section of a frame-like, single-part or multi-part inner cover panel. [10] Vehicle roof according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (34) is arranged to detect a change in position of the cover (24) from a closed position to a ventilation position or open position with respect to the roof opening (11), wherein the vehicle roof further comprises a control device configured to receive detection signals from the sensor, and a lighting device which is arranged in the cover (24) and can be activated and deactivated via the control device, wherein the control device is configured to deactivate the lighting device upon detection of one position from the closed position and the open position, and to activate the lighting device upon detection of another position from the closed position and the open position. [11] Vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle, with a vehicle roof (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

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