Air vents for a vehicle, especially for a motor vehicle, as well as vehicles

Abstract

Air outlet (1) for directing air into the interior of a vehicle, comprising a rigid channel element (2) designed as a solid body and through which air can flow, which has an outlet opening (5) through which the air flowing through the channel element (2) can be discharged from the channel element (2) to direct the air into the interior, characterized by: - a foil (6) which contains: ◯ a first area (B1) which has a first airflow opening (7a) through which the air flows and causes the air flowing through the first airflow opening (7a) to flow away from the film (6) in at least one first flow direction; and ◯ a second area (B2) adjoining the first area (B1), which has a second flow opening (7b) through which air can flow and causes the air flowing through the second flow opening (7b) to flow away from the film (6) in at least one second flow direction different from the first flow direction; and - an actuator (8) by means of which the foil (6) can be moved relative to the channel element (2) between: ◯ a first position in which the first flow opening (7a) is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening (5), whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening (5) can be supplied to and guided through the first flow opening (7a); and ◯ a second position in which the second flow opening (7b) is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening (5), whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening (5) can be supplied to the second flow opening (7b) and can be guided through the second flow opening (7b).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an air outlet for a vehicle, in particular for a motor 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 air outlet.

[0002] DE 10 2017 113 906 B4 discloses an air outlet comprising a housing, an air guide element, and a shut-off device. DE 10 2015 101 097 A1 discloses a known air guide element made of a flexible material for installation in a housing. DE 10 2014 205 692 A1 discloses an air outlet for a motor vehicle. DE 10 2010 001 811 A1 also discloses an air outlet for a vehicle interior ventilation system. DE 60 2005 002 098 T2 discloses roller blind control devices. DE 198 37 341 C1 discloses a control element for an air distribution device for passenger compartments. JP H05 - 124 432 A discloses an air conditioning device for an automobile. JP 2024 - 72 989 A also reveals an air conditioning unit. DE 10 2013 205 980 A1 reveals a control flap for an air conditioning system.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide an air outlet for a vehicle and a vehicle with at least one such air outlet, so that advantageous ventilation of an interior of the vehicle can be achieved.

[0004] This problem is solved according to the invention by an air outlet having the features of claim 1 and by a vehicle having the features of claim 11. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0005] A first aspect of the invention relates to an air outlet for a vehicle whose interior, also referred to as passenger compartment, passenger cell, or cabin, is formed by a vehicle structure, particularly one designed as a self-supporting body. In particular, at least one person, such as the driver of the vehicle, can be present in the interior, especially while the vehicle is in motion. Air, also referred to as interior air or cabin air, can be introduced into the interior by means of the air outlet. This introduction of air into the interior is also referred to as ventilation of the interior. In other words, the interior can be ventilated by introducing the aforementioned cabin air into the interior by means of the air outlet.

[0006] The air outlet has a channel element that is inherently rigid and therefore dimensionally stable. Furthermore, the channel element is designed as a solid body. The channel element is permeable to air and has, in particular, at least or exactly, an outlet opening through which the air flowing through the channel element can be discharged, i.e., channeled out, and thus introduced into the interior space, thereby ventilating the interior space. For example, the channel element has, in particular, at least or exactly, an air-permeable channel that is bounded, for example, by an inner circumferential surface of the channel element, in particular directly. The outlet opening, also referred to as the discharge opening, is an outlet opening of the channel that opens into the surroundings of the channel element.The duct is permeable to air, and the air flowing through the duct and thus the duct element can be discharged from the duct and therefore from the duct element via the outlet opening, and in particular can be introduced into the interior space. More specifically, the duct element has, in particular at least or exactly, an inlet opening, also referred to as an inlet opening, through which air can be introduced into the duct element. For example, the inlet opening is an inlet opening of the duct, such that air can be introduced into the duct and thus into the duct element via the inlet opening.

[0007] When the vehicle is fully assembled, a blower may be provided by means of which the air can be conveyed.

[0008] In order to achieve particularly advantageous ventilation of the interior, the invention provides that the air outlet has a film, which is made, for example, of a plastic or a metallic material. For example, the film has a wall thickness, also referred to as wall thickness, which is, for example, in the range of 2 µm to 4 mm, in particular in the range of 2 µm to 2 mm, and most particularly in the range of 2 µm to 1 mm.

[0009] In particular, the wall thickness is at least 2 µm, more particularly at least 4 µm, wherein the wall thickness is preferably at most 4 mm, more particularly at most 2 mm and most particularly at most 1 mm. Most preferably, the wall thickness is at most 80 µm, more particularly at most 40 µm and most particularly at most 20 µm.

[0010] The film has a first region which features a first airflow opening and causes the air flowing through this opening to flow away from the film in a first direction, thereby, for example, entering the interior space in that first direction. In other words, the first region is designed to cause the air flowing through the first airflow opening to flow away from the film in the first direction, thereby entering the interior space. The film also has a second region adjoining the first region, which features a second airflow opening and causes the air flowing through this second opening to flow away from the film in a second direction, different from the first, and thereby entering the interior space.In other words, the time period is designed so that the air flowing through the second flow opening flows away from the foil in a second flow direction that differs from the first flow direction, and in particular flows into the interior space as a result.

[0011] The air outlet also features a preferably electrically operated actuator by means of which the film can be moved relative to the channel element between at least or exactly two positions, namely a first position and a second position. For example, the actuator allows the film to be moved between the positions solely rotationally relative to the channel element and thus relative to the outlet opening. It is also conceivable that the actuator allows the film to be moved between the positions solely translationally relative to the channel element and thus relative to the outlet opening. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the actuator allows the film to be moved both rotationally and translationally between the positions relative to the channel element and thus relative to the outlet opening.

[0012] In the first position, the first flow opening is arranged in at least partial, in particular at least predominant or preferably complete, overlap with the outlet opening, whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening can be supplied to and guided through the first flow opening. Preferably, in the first position, the second flow opening is arranged completely offset from the outlet opening, so that preferably in the first position, the second flow opening does not overlap the outlet opening.Preferably, it is provided that, by arranging the first flow opening in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening in the first position, the air flowing through the outlet opening can be directed to and through the first flow opening and not the second. Thus, for example, it is provided that in the first position, the air flowing through the outlet opening is prevented from being directed to the second flow opening, so that preferably in the first position, the air flowing through the outlet opening is prevented from passing through the second flow opening.

[0013] In the second position, the second flow opening is arranged in at least partial, and in particular at least predominant or complete, overlap with the outlet opening, whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening can be supplied to and guided through the second flow opening. Preferably, in the second position, the first flow opening is arranged completely offset from the outlet opening, so that preferably in the second position, the first flow opening does not overlap the outlet opening.Furthermore, it is preferably provided that, in the second position, the second flow opening is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening, allowing the air flowing through the outlet opening to be directed to the second flow opening and not the first. Thus, for example, it is provided that in the second position, the air flowing through the outlet opening is prevented from being directed to the first flow opening, so that, preferably in the second position, the air flowing through the outlet opening is prevented from being directed through the first flow opening.

[0014] In particular, the actuator allows the foil to be moved relative to the channel element and thus relative to the outlet opening along a movement path between the positions, with the areas and thus the flow openings preferably connecting to each other along the movement path.

[0015] In the invention, the foil can be moved relative to the channel element as needed by means of the actuator, and thus selectively moved into either the first or second position. This allows the interior to be supplied with air and thus ventilated in a particularly targeted and advantageous manner. In the first position of the foil, the air flows into the interior in the first direction. In the second position, the air flows into the interior in the second direction. This enables targeted and advantageous ventilation of the interior. For example, the airflow directions can be oblique or perpendicular to each other. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the airflow directions are parallel to each other but spaced apart. It is also conceivable that the airflow directions are skew to each other.For example, the respective flow direction runs along a respective imaginary straight line.

[0016] It is evident that the foil allows the air flowing through the outlet to be directed as needed, since in its first position the foil creates the first flow direction and in its second position the second flow direction. The foil thus acts as an air guide, enabling particularly effective and demand-based ventilation of the interior. Furthermore, a very simple and therefore cost-effective design for the air outlet can be achieved. In particular, the actuator can be designed to be compact, lightweight, and inexpensive. Moreover, this single actuator is the only component that can move the foil between positions, effectively controlling the different flow directions with just one actuator.Conventional solutions typically require multiple actuators to move air guide elements in one direction (e.g., vertically) and another direction (e.g., horizontally), thereby creating different airflow directions. In contrast to these conventional solutions, a single actuator is sufficient to achieve the different airflow directions, enabling a space-saving, lightweight, and cost-effective design for the air outlet.

[0017] To enable particularly advantageous ventilation of the interior, one embodiment of the invention provides that the first area, in particular, has inherently rigid and thus dimensionally stable first lamellae of the film, wherein the first lamellae are arranged in overlap with the first flow opening, at least in the first position of the film, and thereby cause the air flowing through the first flow opening to flow off the film in the first flow direction and, in particular, to flow into the interior. This allows the first flow direction to be achieved in a particularly space-saving, weight-efficient, and cost-effective manner.

[0018] It has proven particularly advantageous if the first lamella of each foil is pivotable relative to the base body, especially without damage and / or around an imaginary pivot axis. This allows for a particularly space-saving, lightweight, and cost-effective design of the air outlet, thus enabling effective ventilation of the interior.

[0019] In principle, it would be conceivable for the first lamella to be formed integrally with the base body, so that, for example, the first lamellae and the base body are formed as a single unit and thus made from a single piece. In other words, it is intended that the first lamellae and the base body are formed by a single, integrally manufactured body, thus forming an engine block. Alternatively, it would be possible for the first lamella to be formed separately from the base body and connected to it, for example, by welding, in particular by ultrasonic welding and / or laser welding. Preferably, the first lamella protrudes from the base body, at least in the first position of the film.By preferably holding the first lamella pivotably relative to the base body, a particularly space-saving design of the air outlet can be achieved.

[0020] To achieve a particularly space-saving design of the air outlet and especially advantageous ventilation of the interior, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the air outlet has a guide element which is inherently rigid and therefore dimensionally stable. Preferably, the guide element is designed as a solid body. The foil is movable between positions relative to the channel element and relative to the guide element by means of the actuator. When the foil moves from the first position to the second position, the guide element causes or allows the first louvers to pivot towards the base body and away from the first flow opening, thereby moving relative to the base body from a respective guided position (also referred to as the first guide position) to a respective stowed position (also referred to as the first stowed position).In other words, the guide element is designed to cause, or allow, the first slats to pivot towards the base body and away from the first flow opening when the foil moves from the first position to the second position, thereby moving relative to the base body from the respective guide position to the respective stowed position. In the stowed position, the first slats overlap the first flow opening less than in the guide position. This means, for example, that the first slats do not overlap the first flow opening at all in the stowed position, or that in the first position the first slats do overlap the first flow opening, but less significantly, that is, less far, than in the guide position.When the film moves from the second position to the first position, the guide element causes, or allows, the first slats to pivot towards the first flow opening and away from the base body, thereby moving relative to the base body from their respective stowed position to their respective guided position. In other words, the guide element is designed to cause, or allow, the first slats to pivot towards the first flow opening and away from the base body when the film moves from the second position to the first position, thereby moving relative to the base body from their respective stowed position to their respective guided position. In the guided position, the first slats overlap the first flow opening more extensively, i.e., over a larger area, than in their respective stowed position.This allows for a particularly space-saving and simple design of the air outlet.

[0021] To enable particularly advantageous ventilation of the interior, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the second area, in particular, has inherently rigid and thus dimensionally stable second lamellae of the film, wherein the second lamellae are arranged in overlap with the second flow opening, at least in the second position, and thereby cause the air flowing through the second flow opening to flow away from the film in the second flow direction and thus, in particular, into the interior. In other words, the second lamellae are designed to cause the air flowing through the second flow opening to flow away from the film in the second flow direction and thus, in particular, into the interior.

[0022] To achieve a particularly advantageous second flow direction and thus provide especially beneficial ventilation of the interior, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the respective second lamella is pivotably mounted on the base body of the film relative to the base body, particularly non-destructively and / or about an imaginary pivot axis. The preceding and following descriptions of the respective first lamella can readily be applied to the respective second lamella and vice versa. Thus, it is conceivable that the second lamellae are formed integrally with the base body, so that the second lamellae and the base body are formed from a single piece. Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the respective second lamella is formed separately from the base body and connected to it, particularly by welding, and especially by ultrasonic welding or laser welding.It is conceivable that the first lamellae are formed from a single piece and thus constitute a first body formed from a single piece. It is conceivable that the first body and the base body are formed in one piece, thus forming from a single piece. Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the first body and the base body are formed separately from one another and joined together, for example by welding, in particular by ultrasonic welding or laser welding. It would also be conceivable that the first lamellae are formed separately from one another, with it being preferably provided that each first lamella is formed separately from the base body and joined to the base body.It is conceivable that the second lamellae are formed as a single unit, thus being made from a single piece, so that, for example, the second lamellae are formed by a second body formed from a single piece. It is conceivable that the second body and the base body are formed separately and joined together, for example, by welding, and in particular by ultrasonic or laser welding. Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the second body and the base body are formed as a single unit, thus being made from a single piece. It would also be conceivable that the second lamellae are formed separately from each other, with, for example, each second lamella being formed separately from the base body and joined to it, particularly by welding, and especially by ultrasonic or laser welding.For example, the base body is formed from a single piece and is therefore manufactured in one piece, so that, for example, the base body is a one-piece, and thus integrally manufactured, third body.

[0023] To achieve a particularly space-saving design of the air outlet and to provide particularly advantageous ventilation of the interior, a further embodiment of the invention provides that, when the foil moves from the second position to the first position, the guide element causes or allows the second louvers to pivot towards the base body and away from the second flow opening, thereby moving relative to the base body from their respective second guide position to their respective second stowed position. For example, in the second stowed position, the second louvers overlap the second flow opening less, i.e., less significantly, than in the second guide position.It is conceivable that in the second stowed position, the second lamellae do not overlap the second flow-through opening, or that in the second stowed position, the second lamellae do overlap the second flow-through opening, but less significantly than in the second guided position. Therefore, the guide element is preferably designed to cause or allow the second lamellae to pivot towards the base body and away from the second flow-through opening when the film moves from the second position to the first position, thereby moving relative to the base body from the respective second guided position to the respective second stowed position.When the film moves from the first position to the second position, the guide element causes or allows the second slats to pivot towards the second flow opening and away from the base body, thereby moving relative to the base body from the respective second stowed position to the respective second guided position. Thus, the guide element is preferably designed to cause or allow the second slats to pivot towards the second flow opening and away from the base body when the film moves from the first position to the second position, thereby moving relative to the base body from the respective second stowed position to the respective second guided position. In the second guided position, the second slats overlap the second flow opening more extensively, i.e., over a larger area, than in the second stowed position.This allows the second flow direction to be advantageously achieved, so that the interior can be advantageously ventilated.

[0024] The air is directed particularly advantageously by means of the second louvers, thus creating a second flow direction that allows for advantageous ventilation of the interior.

[0025] In order to guide the air particularly advantageously by means of the second lamellae and thus to advantageously effect the second flow direction, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the second lamellae overlap each other in the second position of the film. For example, the second lamellae overlap each other in the second position in a scale-like manner, that is, like the scales of a fish.

[0026] Another embodiment is characterized in that the first lamellae overlap each other in the first position of the film, in particular in a scale-like manner, i.e. like the scales of a fish, whereby the air can be advantageously guided by means of the first lamellae and thus the first flow direction can be advantageously effected.

[0027] For example, each first lamella, in particular at least or exactly, has a first connection area, wherein, for example, the first lamellae are connected to each other via the first connection areas, in particular via the base body. This is done, for example, by holding each first lamella to the base body via its respective first connection area. This applies to an embodiment in which each first lamella is formed integrally with the base body, as well as to an embodiment in which each first lamella is formed separately from the base body and connected to the base body. Furthermore, each first lamella, in particular at least or exactly, has a first separation area, which, for example, in particular, adjoins the respective first connection area directly.It is conceivable that the first separation areas are separated from each other, i.e., not connected to each other, which means, for example, that the first lamellae can move relative to each other.

[0028] It is conceivable that, for example, between the first lamellae, especially between adjacent first lamellae, a wall area of ​​the film extends, particularly in the manner of a webbing membrane, which allows the air to be guided particularly advantageously.

[0029] Insert the above green paragraphs again below, but refer to the second set of slats!

[0030] For example, each second lamella has, in particular at least or exactly, a second connection area, wherein, for example, the second lamellae are connected to each other via the first lamellae via the second connection areas, in particular via the base body. This is done, for example, by holding each second lamella to the base body via its respective second connection area. This applies to an embodiment in which each second lamella is formed integrally with the base body, as well as to an embodiment in which each second lamella is formed separately from the base body and connected to the base body. Furthermore, each second lamella has, in particular at least or exactly, a second separation area, which, for example, in particular directly, adjoins the respective second connection area.It is conceivable that the second separation areas are separated from each other, i.e., not connected to each other, which means, for example, that the second lamellae can move relative to each other.

[0031] It is conceivable that, for example, between the second lamellae, especially between adjacent second lamellae, a respective wall area of ​​the film extends, particularly in the manner of a webbing membrane, whereby the air can be guided particularly advantageously.

[0032] Finally, it has proven particularly advantageous if the actuator is designed as a piezoelectric stepping drive, as disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2016 104 803 A1 or in US 2019 / 0 074 778 A1. This allows the film to be moved between positions as needed, in particular back and forth, by means of exactly one actuator, thus enabling a particularly simple and space-saving, lightweight, and cost-effective design of the air outlet.

[0033] A second aspect of the invention relates to a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle, in particular a motor car, and most especially a passenger car, whose interior, also referred to as the passenger cell, passenger compartment, or cabin, is formed by a structure designed, for example, as a self-supporting body. The vehicle according to the second aspect of the invention has at least one air outlet according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the air flowing through the duct element can be introduced into the interior by means of the air outlet. This allows for particularly advantageous ventilation of the interior. Advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0034] The invention is based in particular on the following findings and considerations: Conventionally, air outlets, and thus air ducts delimited by the air outlets, are used to introduce air into the respective interior of a vehicle and thereby ventilate the interior, in particular to air-condition it. The respective air outlet is also used, in particular, to distribute the air within the interior. It is conceivable that the air is cooled and / or heated by means of an air conditioning system, for example, by means of at least one heat exchanger of the air conditioning system, and thus air-conditioned, with the conditioned air flowing into the interior via the air outlet. A conventional air outlet typically has a fresh air grill, also simply referred to as a grill, by means of which the air can be directed, i.e., guided.Each grill has a grid structure by means of which the air can be directed as needed and thus introduced into the interior.

[0035] The grid structure typically features horizontally oriented, rigid louvers and vertically oriented, rigid louvers. Moving these louvers allows the airflow to be directed, particularly three-dimensionally. For example, the horizontal louvers create a first direction for the airflow, while the vertical louvers create a second direction. A specific combination of these directions results in a corresponding outflow direction for the air entering the interior. For instance, if the vertical louvers are oriented downwards, the air is directed downwards. If the vertical louvers are oriented to the left, the air flows to the left, and if the horizontal louvers are simultaneously oriented downwards, the air flows to the lower left.To position the louvers of the grille structure as needed and thus adjust the airflow direction accordingly, a control element is typically used, allowing a person to manually move the louvers to the desired position. Solutions that do not use control elements are also known. In these solutions, for example, a person can operate a touchscreen to adjust the position of the louvers. This usually involves the use of electric motors, which are activated by the user's touchscreen input, thereby moving and positioning the louvers.Because the airflow direction is determined by a combination of vertical and horizontal louvers, at least two electric motors are typically used: one to move the vertical louvers and another to move the horizontal louvers. Even in a modern, buttonless cockpit, controls must be operated manually to adjust the airflow direction. This can lead to situations where, for example, the driver's attention is diverted to these controls. Since solutions with touchscreens also typically use two electric motors, this results in a large number of actuators, leading to a significant space requirement, increased weight, and higher costs.Due to their large number, electric motors consume a significant amount of electrical energy and result in considerable weight and space requirements. Furthermore, the conventionally used louvers of the grid structure are mechanical components that are coupled to and / or moved by other mechanical parts such as hinges, levers, knobs, turntables, etc. This can lead to a complex structure and friction, and such designs are prone to failure. The invention avoids the aforementioned problems and disadvantages. The film allows the air to be directed as needed, i.e., guided and thus introduced into the interior space as required. The film itself, and in particular the air outlet, can be considered a so-called compliant mechanism, i.e., a component without hinges or other mechanical connections such as levers, etc.The design ensures that the air outlet remains robust over a long service life, thus maintaining its desired functionality. Furthermore, a lightweight and cost-effective design for the air outlet can be achieved, and the actuator allows for particularly energy-efficient movement of the foil.

[0036] For example, the film has a third area adjoining the first and second areas, particularly along its path of movement, which is, in particular, completely airtight and therefore not permeable to air. For example, the film can be moved by means of the actuator into a third position and thus between the first, second, and third positions relative to the channel element, wherein in the third position the third area is in, in particular, complete overlap with the outlet opening. In particular, it is provided that in the third position the outlet opening, in particular the entirety, is, in particular, completely overlapped by the third area towards the interior.In the third position, the outlet opening can be fluidically separated from the interior, thus preventing air from being introduced through the outlet opening. This allows the ventilation of the interior to be deactivated or disabled entirely.

[0037] The invention enables a particularly advantageous voice control system, allowing a person inside the vehicle to control the air vent via voice command, thereby moving the foil to either the first, second, or third position. This allows the person to concentrate on the road, for example, while driving. All settings can be stored, for instance, in a vehicle key, and these settings are then applied when the vehicle is unlocked using the key, ensuring the vehicle is configured as desired, especially before each journey.The existing sections, as well as any additional sections of the foil, allow for any airflow direction in which the air flows from the foil and thus into the interior. The foil can, for example, be in the form of a ribbon and therefore rectangular. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the foil could be shaped like a circular disc, allowing it to be rotated between positions relative to the duct element by means of an actuator.

[0038] Further details of the invention will become apparent from the following descriptions of preferred embodiments with the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of an air outlet for a vehicle; Fig. 2 a schematic perspective view of a foil of the air outlet according to the first embodiment; Fig. 3 a schematic front view of the film according to a second embodiment of the air outlet; Fig. 4 a schematic rear view of the foil according to Fig. 3; Fig. 5 a schematic perspective view of the slide according to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4; Fig. 6 a schematic and cutaway side view of the air outlet according to the second embodiment; Fig. 7 a schematic perspective view of the foil according to a third embodiment of the air outlet; Fig. 8 a schematic perspective view of the foil according to a fourth embodiment of the air outlet; Fig. 9 another schematic perspective view of the air outlet according to a fifth embodiment of the air outlet, wherein the foil is in a closed position; Fig. 10 a schematic perspective view of the air outlet according to the fifth embodiment, wherein the foil is in a first position different from the closed position; Fig. 11 a schematic perspective view of the air outlet according to the fifth embodiment, wherein the foil is in a second position different from the closed position and the first position; Fig. 12 a schematic perspective view of the air outlet according to the fifth embodiment, wherein the foil is in a fourth position different from the closed position, the first position and the third position; Fig. 13 a schematic perspective view of the air outlet according to the fifth embodiment, wherein the foil is in a fifth position different from the closed position, the first position, the second position and the fourth position; Fig. 14. Partially a schematic perspective view of an actuator of the air outlet, wherein the foil can be moved between the positions by means of the actuator; Fig. 15. A further schematic perspective view of the actor, shown in part; Fig. 16. A further schematic perspective view of the actor, shown in part; and Fig. 17. A further schematic perspective view of the actor is shown in part.

[0039] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0040] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of an air outlet 1 for a vehicle whose interior, also referred to as passenger compartment, passenger cell, or cabin, is formed by a vehicle structure designed, for example, as a self-supporting body. Preferably, the vehicle is a motor vehicle, in particular a motor car, and most especially a passenger car. The air outlet 1 is designed or provided for ventilating the interior. Ventilating the interior means that air, also referred to as interior air or cabin air, can be directed into the interior by means of the air outlet 1. For this purpose, the air outlet 1 has a channel element 2, also referred to as a duct element, which is inherently rigid and thus dimensionally stable and designed as a solid body.For example, the duct element 2 is made of a plastic. The duct element 2 has, in particular, a channel 3, also referred to as an air duct, through which air can flow. This channel 3 has, in particular, an inlet opening 4 and, in particular, an outlet opening 5. The inlet opening 4 is also referred to as the inlet opening, and the outlet opening 5 is also referred to as the outlet opening. Thus, the duct element 2 has the inlet opening 4 and the outlet opening 5. The air to be supplied to the interior space can be introduced into the duct 3, and thus into the duct element 2, via the inlet opening 4. The air can then flow through the duct 3 and thus through the duct element 2. Therefore, the duct element 2 is permeable to the air supplied to the interior space.The air flowing through channel 3 and thus channel element 2 can be discharged from channel 3 and thus from channel element 2 via the outlet opening 5 and thereby introduced into the interior, thus ventilating the interior, and thus allowing air to be introduced into the interior.

[0041] In order to achieve particularly advantageous ventilation of the interior, the air outlet 1 has a particularly good Fig. 2 recognizable slide 6 on. During Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shows a first embodiment of the air outlet 1, is in Fig. Figures 3 to 6 show a second embodiment of the air outlet 1. Fig. Figure 7 shows the foil according to a third embodiment of the air outlet 1, and Fig. Figure 8 shows the foil according to a fourth embodiment of the air outlet 1. Fig. Figures 9 to 13 show a fifth embodiment of the air outlet 1.

[0042] In the first embodiment, the film 6 has several successively arranged regions, wherein the first region is designated B1, the second B2, the third B3, the fourth B4, and the fifth B5. In the first embodiment, regions B1, B2, and B3 each have, in particular, exactly, a flow-through opening 7a-c through which air can flow. Regions B4 and B5, on the other hand, are, in particular, completely airtight, i.e., sealed with respect to air, and thus cannot be penetrated by air, as will be explained in more detail below. The first region B1 is designed to cause the air flowing through the flow-through opening 7a and into the interior to flow away from the film 6 in at least one or exactly one flow direction and thereby into the interior in that first flow direction.The second area B2, which is located between areas B1 and B3, is designed to cause the air flowing through the opening 7b to flow away from the film 6 in at least one or exactly one second flow direction different from the first flow direction, and thereby to flow into the interior space in this second flow direction. Area B3 is designed to cause the air flowing through the opening 7c to flow away from the film 6 in at least one or exactly one third flow direction different from both the first and second flow directions, and thereby to flow into the interior space in this third flow direction.

[0043] Furthermore, air outlet 1 has a Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 not shown, but for example from Fig. 9 identifiable and, in particular, electrically operable actuator 8, by means of which the foil 6 can be moved between several different positions relative to the channel element 2. In a first of the positions, the flow opening 7a of area B1 is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, in particular while the other flow openings 7b and 7c are arranged completely offset from the outlet opening 5 and thus do not overlap the outlet opening 5. As a result, the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be directed to the flow opening 7a and preferably not to the other, remaining flow openings 7b and 7c, and can be guided through the flow opening 7a and preferably not through the other, remaining flow openings 7b and 7c.In a second position, the flow opening 7b is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, in particular while the other, remaining flow openings 7a and 7c are arranged completely offset from the outlet opening 5 and thus do not overlap the outlet opening 5, whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be supplied to the flow opening 7b and not to the other, remaining flow openings 7a and 7c, and can be directed through the flow opening 7b and not through the flow openings 7a and 7c.In a third position, the flow opening 7c is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, particularly while the other, remaining flow openings 7a and 7b are arranged completely offset from the outlet opening 5 and thus do not overlap the outlet opening 5. This means that the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be directed to and through the flow opening 7c and not through the other, remaining flow openings 7b and 7a. This means that in the first position, the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 flows through the flow opening 7a, whereby area B1 causes the air to flow into the interior in the first flow direction, i.e., with the first flow direction.In the second position, the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 passes through the flow opening 7b. This is caused by region B2, which directs the air flowing through the flow opening 7b in the second flow direction, i.e., away from the film 6 and into the interior. In the third position, the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 passes through the flow opening 7c. This is caused by region B3, which directs the air flowing through the flow opening 7c in the third flow direction, i.e., away from the film 6 and into the interior. In a fourth position, the outlet opening 5 is, in particular, completely, overlapped by region B4 towards the interior and is thus fluidically blocked or fluidically separated from the interior.In a fifth position, the outlet opening 5 is completely overlapped by area B5 towards the interior and is thus fluidically blocked and fluidically separated from the interior. This means that in the fourth and fifth positions, the outlet opening 5 is fluidically blocked by the foil 6, thus preventing the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 from entering the interior. In other words, in the fourth and fifth positions, the air outlet 1 is closed, so that air cannot be introduced into the interior via the air outlet 1. In the first, second, and third positions, the air outlet 1 is open, allowing air to be introduced into the interior via the air outlet 1.

[0044] Out of Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows that the respective areas B1, B2, and B3 each have lamellae 9a-c of the film 6. The lamellae 9a of area B1 are arranged in overlap with the flow opening 7a of area B1, at least in the first position. In this first position, the lamellae 9a of area B1 cause the air flowing through the flow opening 7a to flow away from the film 6 in the first flow direction and into the interior. The lamellae 9b of area B2 are arranged in overlap with the flow opening 7b, at least in the second position. In this second position, the lamellae 9b of area B2 cause the air flowing through the flow opening 7b to flow away from the film 6 in the second flow direction and into the interior.The louvers 9c of area B3 are arranged in overlap with the flow opening 7c at least in the third position, whereby the louvers 9c of area B3 in the third position cause the air flowing through the flow opening 7c to flow away from the foil 6 and into the interior.

[0045] Each lamella 9a, 9b, 9c is pivotably mounted on a base body 10 of the film 6, which is common to all lamellae 9a-c, about a respective pivot axis. Preferably, the base body 10 is made of a plastic or a metallic material. Preferably, the base body 10 is formed in one piece, i.e., from a single piece. Preferably, each lamella 9a-c is formed in one piece, i.e., from a single piece. Each lamella 9a-c can be made of a plastic, in particular the same plastic as the base body 10, or each lamella 9a-c can be made of a metallic material, in particular the same metallic material as the base body 10.In principle, it would be conceivable that the respective lamellae 9a-c are formed separately from the base body 10 and connected to the base body 10, for example, by a material bond, such as welding, particularly ultrasonic or laser welding. Furthermore, it would be conceivable that the respective lamellae 9a-c and the base body 10 are formed as a single unit and thus made from a single piece. It is also apparent that, for example, the lamellae 9a, at least in the first position, project from the base body 10 and are thereby arranged in overlap with the flow opening 7a. The lamellae 9b project from the base body 10, at least in the second position, and are therefore arranged in overlap with the flow opening 7b. The lamellae 9c project from the base body 10, at least in the third position, and are therefore arranged in overlap with the flow opening 7c.

[0046] In the first embodiment, the foil 6 mi of the actuator 8 is movable, and in particular displaceable, relative to the channel element 2 along a path of movement 11 between the positions, in particular translationally and, more importantly, exclusively translationally. It can be seen that the path of movement 11 is at least partially arc-shaped and, in this case, U-shaped in a viewing plane. For example, the viewing plane is perpendicular to a plane in which the outlet opening 5 extends.

[0047] The air outlet 1 has a rigid guide element 12 designed as a solid body, along which the film 6 can be moved between positions relative to the channel element 2 by means of the actuator 8. This means that the film 6 is guided by the guide element 12 during its movements between positions effected by the actuator 8. Thus, the guide element 12 defines the path of movement 11.

[0048] For example, it is provided that when the foil 6 moves from the first position to the second position, the third position, the fourth position or the fifth position, the guide element 12 causes or allows the lamellae 9a to pivot towards the base body 10 and away from the flow opening 7a, thereby moving relative to the base body 10 from a respective first guiding position to a respective first stowed position, in which the lamellae 9a do not overlap the flow opening 7a or at least less than in the first guiding position.When the foil 6 moves from the second position, the third position, the fourth position or the fifth position into the first position, the guide element 12 causes or allows the guide element 12 to pivot towards the flow opening 7a and away from the base body 10 and thereby move relative to the base body 10 from the respective first stowed position into the respective first guided position, in which the lamellae 9c overlap the flow opening 7a more strongly, i.e. over a larger area, than in the respective first stowed position.When the foil 6 moves from the second position to the first position, the third position, the fourth position or the fifth position, the guide element 12 causes or allows the guide element 12 to pivot towards the base body 10 and away from the flow opening 7b and thereby move relative to the base body 10 from a respective second guiding position to a respective second stowed position, in which the lamella 9b overlaps the flow opening 7b or at least less than in the second guiding position.When the foil 6 moves from the first position, the third position, the fourth position or the fifth position into the second position, the guide element 12 causes or allows the guide element 12 to pivot towards the flow opening 7b and away from the base body 10, thereby moving relative to the base body 10 from the respective second stowed position into the respective second guiding position, in which the lamellae 9b overlap the flow opening 7b more strongly, i.e., over a larger area, than in the respective second stowed position.When the foil 6 moves from the third position to the first position, the second position, the fourth position or the fifth position, the guide element 12 causes or allows the guide element 12 to pivot towards the base body 10 and away from the flow opening 7c and thereby move relative to the base body 10 from a respective third guiding position to a respective third stowed position, in which the lamellae 9c do not overlap the flow opening 7c or at least do so less than in the third guiding position.When the foil 6 moves from the first, second, fourth, or fifth position to the third position, the guide element 12 causes or allows the guide element 12 to pivot towards the flow opening 7c and away from the base body 10, thereby moving relative to the base body 10 from the respective third stowed position to the respective third guided position, in which the lamellae 9c overlap the flow opening 7c more extensively than in the respective third stowed position. In the first embodiment, each lamella 9a-c is pivotable and thus movable about its respective pivot axis relative to the base body 10 between the respective guided position and the respective stowed position of the respective lamella 9a-c.For example, in the respective stowed position of each lamella 9a-c, at least a respective sub-section of the respective lamella 9a-c and / or the base body 10 is elastically deformed, such that an internal spring force acts in the respective sub-section, by means of which the respective lamella 9a-c can be moved from the respective stowed position to the respective guide position. The guide element 12 holds the respective lamella 9a-c in the respective stowed position against the respective spring force. When the foil 6 moves into the corresponding position, the guide element 12 allows, for example, the respective sub-section to relax at least partially, thereby moving the respective lamella 9a-c from the respective stowed position to the respective guide position by means of the respective spring force.During the movement of the foil 6 into the respective corresponding position, the respective lamella 9a-c is moved by the guide element 12 from its respective guide position to its respective stowed position relative to the base body 10, thereby elastically deforming the respective section. Against this elastic deformation, and thus against the spring force, the respective lamella 9a-c is held in its respective stowed position by the guide element 12. During the movement of the foil 6 into the respective corresponding position, the guide element 12 allows at least partial relaxation of the respective section, causing the respective lamella to essentially stand upright and thus move from its respective stowed position to its respective guide position relative to the base body 10.

[0049] In order to direct the air particularly advantageously, it is preferably provided that the respective lamellae 9a-c overlap each other, at least in their respective guiding positions, for example like fish scales.

[0050] It is evident that, by means of the air outlet 1, and in particular by means of the louvers, virtually any desired airflow direction in which the air is to flow into the interior can be set, i.e., effected. Furthermore, the overlap, i.e., the covering of the outlet opening 5 by the film 6 towards the interior, can be adjusted as required. For example, in the second position, a first section of the outlet opening 5 towards the interior is overlapped by the film 6, and a second section of the outlet opening 5 adjoining the first section towards the interior is arranged without overlap with the film 6, since the second section towards the interior is overlapped by the flow opening 7b.In the first position, for example, a smaller third section of the outlet opening 5 towards the interior is overlapped by the film 6. Conversely, in the first position, a larger fourth section of the outlet opening 5, adjoining the third section, is not overlapped by the film 6 and is arranged without overlap with the film 6, since, for example, the fourth section of the outlet opening 5 towards the interior is overlapped by the flow opening 7a. This allows, for example, the coverage of the outlet opening 5 towards the interior by the film 6 to be adjusted within a range from 0% to 100%, thus enabling the generation of either a stronger or weaker airflow, and consequently, the introduction of either a large or small quantity of air into the interior.

[0051] It is conceivable that the film 6 has a further area, not shown in the figures, which, for example, has at least or exactly two additional flow openings arranged next to each other and through which air can flow, wherein, for example, a wall section of the film 6 is arranged between the additional flow openings, such that the additional flow openings are separated from each other by the wall section of the film 6. Thus, the additional flow openings are spaced apart from each other.For example, in a seventh position of the foil 6, the additional flow openings are arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, so that, for example, in the seventh position, a first part of the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be directed to a first of the additional flow openings and thus through the first of the additional flow openings, and so that, for example, a second part of the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be directed to a second of the additional flow openings and thus through the second of the additional flow openings. This allows for advantageous, demand-based ventilation of the interior space.

[0052] Fig. Figure 3 shows slide 6 according to the second embodiment in a schematic front view. Fig. Figure 4 shows the slide 6 according to the second embodiment in a schematic rear view. Fig. Figure 5 shows the foil 6 according to the second embodiment in a schematic perspective view. In contrast to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment the area B4 is not provided for fluidically blocking the outlet opening 5, but rather the area B4 has, in particular, two airflow openings 7d and 7e, wherein, in particular along the path of movement 11, a first wall section W1 of the foil 6 is arranged between the airflow openings 7d and 7e. This separates the airflow openings 7d and 7e from each other, i.e., they are not fluidically connected, and the airflow openings 7d and 7e are spaced apart from each other.The area B4 is designed to ensure that the air flowing through the flow openings 7d and 7e flows away from the foil 6 and into the interior in at least or exactly one fourth flow direction different from the first, second and third flow directions.

[0053] In the second embodiment, area B5 is also not configured to fluidically block the outlet opening 5, but rather area B5 also has, in particular, exactly two airflow openings 7f and 7g, wherein, in particular along the path of movement 11, a second wall section W2 of the film 6 is arranged between the airflow openings 7f and 7g. This also separates the airflow openings 7f and 7g from each other and arranges them side by side. The fifth area B5 is configured to cause the air flowing through the airflow openings 7f and 7g to flow away from the film 6 and into the interior in at least or exactly one fifth flow direction, different from the first, second, third, and fourth flow directions.

[0054] In the second embodiment, a sixth area of ​​the film 6 is designated B6. Area B6 also has, in particular exactly, two airflow openings 7h and 7i. Area B6 is configured to cause the air flowing through the airflow openings 7h and 7i to flow away from the film 6 and into the interior in at least or exactly one sixth flow direction, different from the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth flow directions. In the second embodiment, a seventh area of ​​the film 6, designated B7, is configured to block the outlet opening 5, thus fluidically separating it from the interior. Therefore, area B7 in the second embodiment is like area B4 or area B5 in the first embodiment.In a fourth position of the foil 6, the flow openings 7d and 7e are arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be directed to and through the flow openings 7d and 7e. In a fifth position of the foil 6, the flow openings 7f and 7g are arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be directed to and through the flow openings 7f and 7g. In a sixth of the positions of the foil 6, the flow openings 7h and 7i are arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening 5, whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening 5 can be supplied to the flow openings 7h and 7i and can be guided through the flow openings 7h and 7i.The respective areas B4, B5, and B6 also each have lamellae 9d-f that determine the respective flow direction. The flow directions achievable by the respective areas B1-B6 are shown in . Fig. Figures 3 to 5 are illustrated by the respective arrows. In a seventh position of the foil 6 according to the second embodiment, the outlet opening 5 is completely overlapped by the area B7, particularly towards the interior, thereby fluidically blocking the outlet opening 5 and thus fluidically separating it from the interior. Fig. Figure 6 shows the air outlet 1 according to the second embodiment in a schematic and cutaway side view.

[0055] Fig. Figure 7 shows a schematic perspective view of the film 6 according to the third embodiment. For example, to achieve a space-saving design, the film 6 is selectively wound or unwound by means of the guide element 12 during each movement of the film 6 relative to the guide element 12.

[0056] To achieve, for example, the previously described elastic deformation or deformability of the respective sub-area, it is provided, for instance, that the respective lamella of the foil 6 and / or the base body 10 are made of a resilient, and thus elastically deformable, material. This allows the respective lamella 9a-f to spring back to its desired nominal shape even after a prolonged period of standing or remaining in its respective position, and consequently to at least partially overlap the respective flow opening 7a-i and create the respective flow direction. The lamellae do not require complete clearance, but only enough space to fit into a storage area with minimal friction in their respective stowed position, in which, for example, the respective lamellae are folded together or on top of each other.

[0057] The in Fig. Figure 7 illustrates that the winding and unwinding of the film 6 can be done at exactly one end of the film 6 or at both ends of the film 6.

[0058] At the in Fig. In the fourth embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, for example, the guide element 12, when the film 6 is moved relative to the guide element 12, causes the film 6 to be twisted, for example, about a torsional axis, either at exactly one end or at both ends of the film 6. This allows for a particularly space-saving design.

[0059] For example, by allowing the slats to overlap, jamming and noise can be prevented. Particularly when moving from their stowed position to their operating position and vice versa, the slats can slide over each other in a scale-like manner and / or slide against one another. The slats can be made of the same material as the foil 6 or of a different material. Thus, it is conceivable that each slat is made of a different material and the base body 10 of a different material. The slats can be luminous, especially self-illuminating. Furthermore, it is conceivable to use direct or indirect lighting for the slats.

[0060] Fig. Figures 10 to 13 show a fifth embodiment of the air outlet 1. Fig. In position 9, the foil 6 is in the fifth position, in which the outlet opening 5 is completely overlapped by area B5 and thus closed and fluidically separated from the interior. Fig. In position 9, the foil 6 is in the first position, in which the flow opening 7a of area B1 is arranged in overlap with the outlet opening 5. Fig. In the second position (11), the foil 6 is located in the flow-through opening 7b of area B2, in which it overlaps the outlet opening 5. By appropriately arranging and sizing the flow-through opening 7b, the outlet opening 5 is partially overlapped by the flow-through opening 7b and partially by an airtight wall section of the foil 6 in the second position, so that the outlet opening 5 is only partially exposed. In the fifth embodiment, air can only flow upwards in the second position. Fig. In the third position (12), the foil 6 is located in an overlapping arrangement with the flow-through opening 7c of area B3. By appropriately arranging the flow-through opening 7c and by appropriately defining its size, it is achieved in the present fifth embodiment that, in the third position, the outlet opening 5 towards the interior is partially overlapped by the flow-through opening 7c and partially by a further, airtight wall section of the foil 6, so that even in the third position the outlet opening 5 towards the interior is only partially, i.e., only partially, open.In the installed position of the air outlet 1, which assumes its installed position when the vehicle is fully manufactured, the flow opening 7c is, for example, arranged further down in the vehicle's vertical direction than the flow opening 7b, so that in the fifth embodiment and in the third position of the foil 6, the air can only flow downwards. Fig. In section 13, the foil 6 is in the fourth position, in which the outlet opening 5 of the channel element 2, in particular its entirety, is overlapped by the area B4, which is completely airtight, towards the interior. This means that the outlet opening 5, in particular its entirety, is fluidically separated from the interior, thus preventing air from entering the interior from the outlet opening 5.

[0061] Out of Fig. Figure 6 shows that, for example, the louvers form a particularly flexible ramp that directs the air in the desired direction of flow.

[0062] Finally, they show Fig. Figures 14 to 17 show a possible embodiment of the actuator 8. The actuator 8 is preferably designed as a piezo actuator, which, when in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figures 14 to 17 is designed as a piezoelectric walking actuator. This means that the actuator 8 has first legs 13a, second legs 13b, third legs 14a, and fourth legs 14b. It can be seen that legs 13a and 14a are arranged on a first side S1 of the film 6, while legs 13b and 14b are arranged on a second side S2 of the film 6 opposite the first side S1. Each leg 13a, b, 14a, b is or comprises, for example, at least one piezoelectric element or several stacked piezoelectric elements. Each leg 13a, b, 14a, b is deformable at its respective end E, in particular by applying an electrical voltage to the respective leg 13a, b, 14a, b. By deforming the respective end E, the respective end E can be moved between a respective first position ST1 and a respective second position ST2, in particular moved back and forth.It is also evident that each leg 13a located on side S1 is assigned exactly one of the legs 13b located on the second side S2, thus forming a pair of legs. Similarly, each leg 14a located on side S1 is assigned exactly one of the legs 14b located on side S2, so that each leg 14a located on side S1 and each leg 14b located on side S2 form another pair of legs. The respective legs 13a and 13b, 14a and 14b of each leg pair are arranged opposite each other, such that one leg of each pair is located on side S1 and the other leg of each pair is located on side S2.

[0063] To move the film 6 relative to the channel element 2 by means of the actuator 8, which is designed as a piezoelectric stepping drive, the legs 13a are moved in support position with side S1 and the legs 13b in support position with side S2, while legs 13a and 13b are in their respective first position ST1, so that legs 13a and 13b are in direct support position with the film 6 and in their respective first position ST1, while legs 13a and 13b are spaced away from the film 6 and thus do not touch the film 6. This is due to Fig. 14. In other words, for example, in a first step S1 of a method for operating the air outlet 1, the legs 13a and 13b are moved into direct contact with the foil 6 while the legs 13a and 13b are in their respective first position ST1, such that the legs 13a are moved into direct contact with side S1 while the legs 13a are in their respective first position ST1, and that the legs 13b are moved into direct contact with side S2 while the legs 13b are in their respective first position ST1. Thus, in the first step S1, the legs 13a and 13b touch the foil 6 while the legs 13a and 13b are in their respective first position ST1 and while the legs 13a and 13b are spaced away from the foil 6. It is also evident that in step S1, legs 13a and 13b are initially in their respective second position ST2.

[0064] At a Fig. In the second step S2 of the procedure shown in Figure 15, the ends E of legs 13a and 13b are moved from their respective first position ST1 to their respective second position ST2 while the ends E of legs 13a and 13b, and thus the legs 13a and 13b, are directly touching the foil 6. This moves the foil 6 along the path of movement 11 in a first direction of movement illustrated by arrow 15. Furthermore, for example, in the second step S2, particularly while the ends E of legs 13a and 13b are moved from their respective first position ST1 to their respective second position ST2, the ends E of legs 14a and 14b are moved from their respective second position ST2 to their respective first position ST1, particularly while the ends E of legs 14a and 14b, and thus the legs 14a and 14b, are spaced away from the foil 6. The second step S1 follows the first step S1 in time. In a Fig. In the third step S3 of the procedure, which follows the second step S2, illustrated in Figure 16, legs 13a and 13b are moved away from the film 6, and legs 14a and 14b are moved into direct contact with the film 6, so that in the third step S3 the ends E of legs 14a and 14b directly touch the film 6, and legs 13a and 13b, and thus their ends E, are spaced away from the film 6. The ends E of legs 14a and 14b are moved into direct contact with the film 6, while the ends E of legs 14a and 14b are in their respective first position ST1. The legs 14a and 14b, that is, their ends E, are moved into direct support with the foil 6 in such a way that the ends E of legs 14a directly touch the side S1 of the foil 6 and that the ends E of legs 14b directly touch the side S2 of the foil 6.Thus, in the third step S3, the ends E of legs 14a are in direct support with side S1, while the ends E of legs 14b are in direct support with side S2 of film 6, and while legs 13a and 13b, and thus their ends E, are completely spaced away from film 6.

[0065] In a fourth step S4 of the process, which follows the third step S3, the ends E of legs 14a and 14b are deformed while directly touching the foil 6, and thereby moved from their respective first position ST1 to their respective second position ST2. This moves the foil 6, in particular again, in the first direction of movement relative to the guide element 12, illustrated by arrow 15, i.e., it is shifted. In the fourth step S4, the ends E of legs 13a and 13b are moved from their respective second position ST2 to their respective first position ST1, and in particular, the ends E of legs 14a and 14b are moved from their respective first position ST1 to their respective second position ST2.The fourth step S4 can then be followed by the first step S1 again; thus, after the fourth step S4, the procedure can be continued with the first step S1 in order to move the film 6, in particular successively, in the first direction of movement. For example, to move the film 6, in particular along the path of movement 11, in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement and illustrated by an arrow 16, particularly relative to the channel element 2, the respective ends E, while directly touching the film 6, are moved from the respective second position ST2 to the respective first position ST1, and correspondingly and in particular simultaneously, the respective ends E, which do not touch the film 6 and are therefore completely spaced from the film 6, are moved from the respective first position ST1 to the respective second position ST2.Then, the ends E located in the respective first position ST1 are moved away from the film 6, and the ends E initially spaced away from the film 6 and located in the respective second position ST2 are moved into direct contact with the film 6. If the ends E initially located in the respective second position ST2 and directly touching the film 6 are then moved from the respective second position ST2 to the respective first position ST1, the film 6 is moved again in the second direction of movement relative to the channel element 2, in this case translationally. In this way, the film 6 can be selectively moved by means of the actuator 8 either in the first or in the second direction of movement relative to the channel element 2 and thus moved back and forth, allowing the film 6 to be moved into the respective position as required.Since actuator 8 is designed as a piezoelectric actuator, it can move the foil 6 with very high precision relative to the channel element 2, thus enabling high positioning accuracy. Furthermore, actuator 8 can move the foil 6 at a very high speed relative to the channel element 2, which is achieved through a high frequency of the respective piezoelectric element, particularly in the two- to three-digit kilohertz range.

[0066] Out of Fig. Figure 5 also clearly shows that the foil 6 allows the air to flow away from the foil 6 in at least or exactly two different flow directions simultaneously, which is not possible with conventional solutions. Reference symbol list 1 air outlet 2 channel element 3-channel 4 Entrance opening 5 Exit opening Slide 6 7a-i Flow opening 8 Actuator 9a-f lamella 10 basic shapes 11 Movement path 12 Guide element 13a, b leg 14a, b leg 15 Arrow 16 Arrow B1-7 area W1 wall area W2 wall area S1 page S2 page SR1 first step SR2 second step SR3 third step SR4 fourth step ST1 first position ST2 second position E ends

Claims

Air outlet (1) for directing air into the interior of a vehicle, comprising a rigid channel element (2) designed as a solid body and through which air can flow, which has an outlet opening (5) through which the air flowing through the channel element (2) can be discharged from the channel element (2) to direct the air into the interior, characterized by: - ​​a film (6) which has: ◯ a first area (B1) which has a first flow opening (7a) through which air can flow and causes the air flowing through the first flow opening (7a) to flow away from the film (6) in at least one first flow direction;and a second area (B2) adjoining the first area (B1), which has a second flow opening (7b) through which air can flow and causes the air flowing through the second flow opening (7b) to flow away from the film (6) in at least one second flow direction different from the first flow direction; and an actuator (8) by means of which the film (6) is movable relative to the channel element (2) between: a first position in which the first flow opening (7a) is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening (5), whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening (5) can be supplied to and guided through the first flow opening (7a);and◯ a second position in which the second flow opening (7b) is arranged in at least partial overlap with the outlet opening (5), whereby the air flowing through the outlet opening (5) can be supplied to the second flow opening (7b) and can be guided through the second flow opening (7b). Air outlet (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first area (B1) has first lamellae (9a) of the film (6), the first lamellae (9a) of which are arranged in overlap with the first flow opening (7a) at least in the first position and thereby cause the air flowing through the first flow opening (7a) to flow away from the film (6) in the first flow direction. Air outlet (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the respective first lamella (9a) is pivotably held on a base body (10) of the film (6) relative to the base body (10). Air outlet (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that: - a rigid guide element (12) is provided; - the foil (6) is movable between the positions relative to the guide element (12) by means of the actuator (8), which: ◯ when the foil (6) moves from the first position to the second position, causes or allows the first louvers (9a) to pivot towards the base body (10) and away from the first flow opening (7a), thereby moving relative to the base body (10) from a respective guide position to a respective stowed position; and ◯ when the foil (6) moves from the second position to the first position, causes and allows the first louvers (9a) to pivot towards the first flow opening (7a) and away from the base body (10), thereby moving relative to the base body (10) from the respective stowed position to the respective guide position. Air outlet (1) according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the second area (B2) has second lamellae (9b) of the film (6), the second lamellae (9b) of which are arranged in overlap with the second flow opening (7b) at least in the second position and thereby cause the air flowing through the second flow opening (7b) to flow away from the film (6) in the second flow direction. Air outlet (1) according to claim 5 and according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the respective second lamella (9b) is pivotably held on the base body (10) of the film (6) relative to the base body (10). Air outlet (1) according to claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the guide element (12): - when the film (6) moves from the second position to the first position, causes or allows the second louvers (9b) to pivot towards the base body (10) and away from the second flow opening (7b), thereby moving relative to the base body (10) from a respective second guide position to a respective second stowed position; and - when the film (6) moves from the first position to the second position, causes and allows the second louvers (9b) to pivot towards the second flow opening (7b) and away from the base body (10), thereby moving relative to the base body (10) from the respective second stowed position to the respective second guide position. Air outlet (1) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the second lamellae (9b) overlap each other in the second position of the film (6). Air outlet (1) according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the first lamellae (9a) overlap each other in the first position of the film (6). Air outlet (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuator (8) is designed as a piezoelectric walking drive. Vehicle, comprising at least one air outlet (1) according to one of the preceding claims.

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