Sealing element for a motor vehicle and arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to a sealing element (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one first contact area (14) by means of which the sealing element (1) is to be arranged on a front flap (4) of the motor vehicle which is pivotable between a closed position (3) and at least one open position, and comprising at least one second contact area (15) by means of which the sealing element (1) is to be arranged at least indirectly on a component (16) of the motor vehicle which is formed separately from the front flap (4), wherein in the closed position (3) the front flap (4) can be supported at least indirectly on the component (16) via the sealing element (1) by means of the contact areas (14, 15), and wherein a fold (10) of the front flap (4) arranged at a front end (12) of the front flap (4) arranged in the longitudinal direction (11) of the vehicle is to be surrounded at least partially by the first contact area (14).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a sealing element for a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement of a sealing element on a front area of ​​a motor vehicle according to the preamble of claim 7.

[0002] DE 11 2017 006 736 T5 discloses a motor vehicle comprising a vehicle body, an engine compartment which accommodates an engine, a hood which is movably coupled to the vehicle body and arranged to provide a closing element for the engine compartment, wherein the hood is movable between open and closed states.

[0003] Furthermore, a sealing element for an automobile is known from JP S63-232 050 A.

[0004] Furthermore, KR 20 1998 0 045 375 U reveals the hood of a motor vehicle.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 10 2013 003 529 A1 discloses a front arrangement for a motor vehicle.

[0006] Furthermore, a sealing material for an automobile hood is known from JP H03-224 845 A.

[0007] Finally, the JP S62-33 954 U reveals a seal.

[0008] The object of the invention is to create a sealing element for a motor vehicle and an arrangement of a sealing element on a front area of ​​a motor vehicle, so that the comfort of the motor vehicle can be particularly increased.

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention by a sealing element for a motor vehicle with the features of claim 1 and by an arrangement of a sealing element on a front area of ​​a motor vehicle with the features of claim 7. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the description.

[0010] A first aspect of the invention relates to a sealing element for a motor vehicle, in particular for a hood of the motor vehicle. The sealing element can therefore be referred to as a hood seal. The motor vehicle is, for example, a passenger car. Preferably, the motor vehicle, particularly in its fully manufactured state, has the sealing element.

[0011] The fact that the sealing element is designed or intended for the front hood of the motor vehicle can be understood, in particular, to mean that the sealing element is designed or intended for placement on the front hood. Thus, the sealing element can be placed, or is placed, specifically on the front hood.

[0012] The sealing element has at least one first contact area, which can be understood to be, in particular, a first sealing area of ​​the sealing element. The sealing element is to be arranged, for example, at least indirectly or directly, via the first contact area on a front flap of the motor vehicle that is pivotable between a closed position and at least one open position, for example, about at least one pivot axis, whereby the sealing element bears against the front flap, for example, at least in the closed position of the front flap, and in particular directly, via the first contact area. In other words, the contact area is designed or provided for arrangement, and in particular for bearing against, the front flap, especially at least in the closed position.

[0013] For example, the hood must be pivotable, at least between the closed position and at least one open position, and in particular, must be held or supported, at least indirectly or directly, on the body of the motor vehicle, that is, for example, on at least one body component of the body or the motor vehicle. Pivoting the hood between the closed and open positions can be understood, in particular, as pivoting the hood from the closed position to the open position and / or from the open position to the closed position. Furthermore, pivoting the hood can be understood, in particular, as pivoting the hood relative to the body, for example, to the body component.

[0014] The term "front flap" can refer in particular to a front hood, which can also be called a bonnet. The front flap is designed, for example, to cover, and in particular to close, at least one front-facing compartment of the motor vehicle. Preferably, in the closed position, the front-facing compartment, and in particular at least one opening leading into the front-facing compartment, can be closed or sealed by means of the front flap. In other words, in the closed position, the front-facing compartment, and in particular the opening, can be covered, for example, at least upwards in the direction of the vehicle's height. Preferably, in the open position, the compartment, and in particular the opening, is at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, uncovered by the front flap.In other words, when the vehicle is in the open position, the compartment, especially the opening, is not closed or covered. The front compartment could be, for example, an engine compartment. Alternatively, the front compartment could be a front storage compartment, also known as a "frunk".

[0015] The sealing element further comprises at least one second contact area, which is distinct from the first contact area and can be understood to be, in particular, a second sealing area of ​​the sealing element. The sealing element is to be arranged, at least indirectly, and in particular directly, via the second contact area on at least one component of the motor vehicle that is separate from the front flap, whereby, in particular at least in the closed position, the sealing element bears against the component, at least indirectly, and in particular directly, via the second contact area. In other words, the second contact area of ​​the sealing element is designed for arrangement, and in particular for at least indirect contact, with the component.The sealing element, in particular its arrangement over the respective contact area on the front flap and the component, allows the front receiving area to be sealed, at least partially, from the vehicle's surroundings, for example, in the closed position. For instance, the first contact area is to be arranged, in particular directly, on the front flap in both the closed and open positions, and the second contact area is to be arranged, for example, with respect to both the open and closed positions, at least indirectly, in particular directly, on the component in the closed position.Alternatively, for example, the second attachment area can be arranged or positioned at least indirectly on the component in the closed position and in the open position, and the first attachment area can be arranged or positioned exclusively on the front flap in the closed position with regard to the open position and the closed position.

[0016] Furthermore, it is provided that, in particular to seal a gap extending, especially in the closed position, between the front flap and the component, at least partially, the front flap can be supported or braced against the component, for example, at least downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction, via the sealing element and the contact areas, in particular at least indirectly or directly, in the closed position. In other words, because the first contact area is arranged on the front flap in the closed position and the second contact area is arranged at least indirectly on the component in the closed position, the front flap can be supported or braced against the component, at least indirectly, in particular directly, via the sealing element and the contact areas, in the closed position.This means that the front flap and the component can be bridged, or are bridged, at least partially by means of the sealing element.

[0017] To significantly enhance the comfort of the motor vehicle, and in particular to improve its acoustic performance, the invention provides that a fold in the front of the hood, arranged or formed at the front end of the hood in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, is at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly, surrounded by the first contact area, preferably directly, and preferably at least in the closed position, and in particular in both the closed and open positions. This means, for example, that the first contact area, particularly in the installation position of the sealing element in or on the motor vehicle, extends to at least two, and in particular different, sides of the fold, whereby, for example, the first contact area surrounds the fold at least partially on these sides.In other words, the sealing element is to be arranged or positioned to surround the fold of the front flap, at least partially, and in particular predominantly, across the contact area. Put another way, the first contact area is designed to surround the fold of the front flap, at least partially.

[0018] The term "fold" can refer specifically to a bent or folded section of the front panel. Thus, the fold is formed, for example, by bending or folding over, particularly by flanging, the initial geometry of the front panel. The fold is therefore specifically a fold formed or produced by flanging.

[0019] The invention is based in particular on the following insights and considerations: Seamless or near-seamless transitions between an outer skin in or on the front of a motor vehicle and the hood can appear very precise and clean within the design language of a vehicle. Therefore, particular emphasis can be placed on this aspect in exterior design. For this reason, in the known prior art, for example, a bumper cover, a decorative grille, or a headlight is designed at the transition to the hood in such a way that a gap is formed which does not disrupt the seamless or near-seamless transition, which is in particular a flush transition.However, this can lead to a transition from laminar to turbulent flow at the fold, particularly at a crimped edge, of the hood, which can cause, for example, acoustic disturbances even at low speeds. The flow in this context refers specifically to the airflow that passes over the vehicle while it is in motion. This airflow can be described as the slipstream.

[0020] In contrast, the aforementioned disadvantages can be overcome by means of the sealing element according to the invention. The sealing element, which can also simply be referred to as a seal, is attached to the front flap, for example, in such a way that it closes the aforementioned joint in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle particularly far forward, especially as far forward as possible, and, in particular, simultaneously surrounds, for example, the folded edge of the front flap by means of at least one contour, in particular formed by the first contact area. By surrounding the folded edge with the first contact area, the flow characteristics of the airflow during the vehicle's operation can thus be significantly improved, in particular to such an extent that the transition from laminar to turbulent flow can be avoided or kept to a minimum.This allows for the avoidance or minimal reduction of unwanted noise, thereby significantly improving the vehicle's acoustic performance. This, in turn, greatly enhances the vehicle's comfort, particularly its acoustic comfort. Furthermore, the first contact area allows for the centering of the sealing element on or above the fold of the hood, enabling the sealing element to be precisely positioned on the hood, especially at the fold. This ensures a particularly precise installation position of the sealing element, which can also positively impact the acoustic performance. Finally, the manufacturing quality of the vehicle can be significantly improved and / or the manufacturing effort minimized.

[0021] To ensure a particularly effective seal of the front receiving area by means of the sealing element, the contact areas, i.e., the first and second contact areas, are connected to each other at least indirectly, and in particular directly, via at least one predetermined bending point. In other words, the sealing element has the predetermined bending point through which the contact areas are coupled to each other at least indirectly, and in particular directly. It is provided that when the front flap is pivoted, particularly from the open position to the closed position, the contact areas can be pivoted, or are pivoted, relative to each other by at least indirect, for example, direct, and in particular mechanical, action on the sealing element from the component, for example, via a rigid component, under, in particular, at least elastic, deformation of the sealing element.In other words, when the front flap is pivoted, especially from the open position to the closed position, the pivoting of the contact areas, especially around the intended bending point, is accompanied by this, which, for example, makes it possible or causes the, especially at least indirectly, arrangement of the second contact area on the component, for example by means of the hard component.This means, for example, that the sealing element has a first shape in the open position of the front flap and a second shape different from the first in the closed position of the front flap. In the second shape, the contact areas, particularly at or around the predetermined bending point, are pivoted relative to each other compared to the first shape. A change in shape from the first shape to the second shape results from a deformation of the sealing element, particularly an elastic one, especially mediated by the predetermined bending point. A force to be applied to effect this deformation is introduced, or is introduced, at least indirectly from the component, for example via the rigid component, into the sealing element, particularly into the second contact area. The term "each shape" can refer to a specific geometry.The predetermined bending point thus forms, in particular, a predetermined bending axis, which can also be referred to as a second pivot axis. This ensures, with particular care, that in the closed position the sealing element rests against the component via the second contact area, for example, mediated by the hard component. Furthermore, the aforementioned deformation can generate a restoring force by which the sealing element presses against the component, especially via the second contact area, for example, mediated by the hard component, thereby significantly improving the sealing effect of the sealing element.

[0022] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the second contact area, particularly in the installation position of the sealing element on or in the vehicle, is arranged further down in the vehicle's vertical direction, at least partially, for example predominantly or completely, than the first contact area. In other words, the second contact area extends further down in the vehicle's vertical direction than the first contact area, at least partially, so that the sealing element bridges the front hood and the component, for example, starting from the front hood and extending downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction, particularly down to the component. This, and in particular the resulting shape of the sealing element, can positively influence the airflow, thereby preventing or significantly minimizing the aforementioned transition to turbulent flow.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the first system area is provided to have two sub-areas extending obliquely or perpendicularly to each other. In other words, the sub-areas of the first system area extend obliquely or perpendicularly to each other. For example, the sub-areas adjoin each other, particularly by projecting obliquely or perpendicularly from one another, at least indirectly, and especially directly. Due to the obliquely or perpendicularly extending sub-areas, the first system area can surround the fender edge, particularly the rolled edge, in a particularly well-defined manner, at least in part, thereby positively influencing the airflow and thus significantly improving the acoustic performance and comfort of the vehicle.

[0024] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the sealing element is arranged or positioned via a first of the sub-areas on an inner side of the fold, particularly one facing the front receiving space in the closed position, and in particular directly on the fold, for example on at least one fold surface of the fold, whereby the first sub-area abuts, for example, directly on the fold, and in particular on the fold surface. In other words, the first sub-area extends onto or along the inner side of the fold. The inner side of the fold can be understood to be, in particular, a side of the fold facing away from the surroundings of the vehicle in the closed position. Furthermore, the aforementioned fold surface of the fold can be understood to be, in particular, a surface facing the front receiving space at least in the closed position and / or a surface facing away from the surroundings.The second section of the sealing element is to be positioned, in particular directly, on a folded edge, especially a flanged edge, of the fold, so that the second section rests, for example, directly on the flanged edge. In other words, the second section of the first contact area extends, in particular directly, along the folded edge or flanged edge of the fold. This allows the sealing element to be positioned in a particularly defined manner on the fold via the first contact area, enabling the fold to be surrounded particularly well, and in particular extensively, by the first contact area. This significantly improves the acoustic performance. Furthermore, the aforementioned centering can be significantly improved. The inside of the fold, in particular the aforementioned folded surface, faces downwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle and / or rearwards in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.The folded edge, for example, points forward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and / or downward in the vertical direction of the vehicle. The folded edge has a radius, which can be referred to as the fold radius or bending radius. Therefore, the folded edge can be called the fold radius. Before the fold is formed, the aforementioned folded surface points outwards, meaning that before the fold is formed, the folded surface is, for example, a surface of the original geometry of the hood facing its surroundings, particularly in the closed position.

[0025] In order to be able to fix the sealing element particularly securely, it is further provided that the sealing element has at least one fastening surface, formed for example by the first contact area, in particular the first sub-area, for, for example, direct fastening to the front flap.

[0026] This means that the sealing element can be attached to the front panel via the mounting surface, in particular at least indirectly or directly, and specifically in both the closed and open positions. For example, the sealing element is arranged on the front panel via the first contact area, in particular via its sub-areas, in both the open and closed positions. For example, the first contact area, in particular the first sub-area, comprises the mounting surface.

[0027] To ensure particularly secure attachment of the sealing element to the front flap, a further embodiment provides that the mounting surface is an adhesive surface for attaching the sealing element to the front flap by means of adhesive. In other words, the sealing element can be bonded to the front flap via the mounting surface or the adhesive surface, or is already bonded to the front flap.

[0028] In a further embodiment, it is provided that the sealing element above the second contact area is arranged, at least indirectly, and in particular directly or via at least one rigid component, on a component of a headlight. In other words, the component is designed as the headlight component. This allows the receiving space to be kept particularly airtight, and at the same time, the aforementioned joint can be closed particularly advantageously, especially with a particularly favorable airflow, thereby keeping the noise level especially low or even eliminating it altogether. The headlight component is, for example, a lens of the headlight. The lens is designed, in particular, to allow light generated by the headlight to pass through.This means that the light produced, for example, by at least one bulb in the headlight, can pass through the lens and into the vehicle's surroundings, particularly to illuminate the area. The lens is made of materials such as plastic and / or glass.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the sealing element is provided to have at least one support area, in particular one facing away from the first and / or the second sub-area of ​​the first contact area, over which the sealing element can be supported or is supported on at least one hard component arranged, for example, at least indirectly or directly, on the front flap, which can be referred to as the second hard component and is in particular designed separately from the sealing element. In other words, the sealing element rests against the second hard component over the support area, in particular at least indirectly or directly.This allows a centering effect for the sealing element, enabling it to be centered via the support area of ​​the second hard component, or on the hard component itself, for example, in addition to the folded edge, particularly when positioned or attached to the front flap. Centering can thus be achieved, for instance, via the folded edge and the support area of ​​the second hard component. To ensure particularly precise alignment of the sealing element within the vehicle, the second hard component is, for example, designed with an alignment mechanism. Centering on or by means of the hard component can significantly improve the manufacturing quality of the vehicle and / or minimize manufacturing costs.The sealing element is supported on the second hard component via the support area, for example, by at least one rib of the second hard component, which can be referred to as an alignment rib. The at least one rib projects, for example, in particular obliquely or perpendicularly, from a base body of the second hard component. The second hard component has, for example, a higher stiffness and / or a higher strength than the sealing element. This means that the second hard component is made of a harder and / or less elastic and / or less flexible material than the sealing element.

[0030] A second aspect of the invention relates to an arrangement of a sealing element, particularly according to the first aspect of the invention, on or in a front area of ​​a motor vehicle. The front area can be understood to be, in particular, a forward end area in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, which can also simply be referred to as the front or vehicle front of the motor vehicle. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first aspect of the invention are to be regarded as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa. Furthermore, the arrangement can be understood to be, in particular, an arrangement of the sealing element on a front hood of the motor vehicle.

[0031] The sealing element is arranged via at least a first contact area of ​​the sealing element on a front flap of the motor vehicle which can be pivoted between a closed position and at least one open position, in particular at least indirectly or directly, at least in the closed position, in particular in the closed position and in the open position.Furthermore, the sealing element is arranged, at least indirectly, in particular directly, via at least a second contact area of ​​the sealing element, at least in the closed position, on at least one component of the motor vehicle that is designed separately from the front flap, wherein, in particular by which, for example to seal a gap extending at least partially between the front flap and the component, the front flap is supported in the closed position via the sealing element by means of the contact areas, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on the component, for example at least downwards in the vehicle's upward direction.

[0032] In order to improve the comfort of the motor vehicle, in particular its acoustic behavior, it is provided according to the invention that the first attachment area surrounds a fold of the front flap, in particular a fold edge or a fold radius of the fold, at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly, which is arranged or formed at a front end of the front flap in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0033] The system areas are connected to each other at least indirectly via a predetermined bending point, at which the system areas can be pivoted relative to each other when the front flap is pivoted into the closed position by at least indirectly acting on the sealing element of the component, thereby deforming the sealing element.

[0034] Another aspect relates to a method for manufacturing a motor vehicle and / or for arranging a sealing element, particularly according to the first aspect of the invention, on the front hood. Advantages and advantageous embodiments of the first or second aspect of the invention are to be considered as advantages and advantageous embodiments of the further aspect, and vice versa. Also disclosed is a motor vehicle which has at least one sealing element according to the first aspect of the invention and / or at least one arrangement according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0035] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the claims, the figures, and the description of the figures. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown in the figures alone, are not only usable in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own.

[0036] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a preferred embodiment and the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a schematic and perspective partial view of an arrangement according to the invention; and Fig. 2 a schematic partial sectional view of an arrangement according to the invention.

[0037] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0038] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic and perspective partial view of the arrangement of a sealing element 1 on a front area 2 of a motor vehicle. Thus, in Fig. 1 of the motor vehicles, shown in particular in part. In Fig. Figure 2 shows the arrangement in a schematic partial sectional view.

[0039] The motor vehicle has a front flap 4 that can be pivoted between a closed position 3 and at least one open position, for example about at least one pivot axis. Fig. 1 and in Fig. 2. The front flap 4 is in the closed position 3. Preferably, and especially with regard to the open and closed positions 3, at least one front-facing storage compartment 5 of the vehicle can be covered, for example, at least predominantly, and especially completely, by means of the front flap 4. The front-facing storage compartment 5 is thus located, particularly in the closed position 3, behind, for example, in the vehicle's vertical direction 7 below, the front flap 4, relative to its surroundings 6 of the vehicle. The front-facing storage compartment 5 is, for example, designed as an engine compartment or as a front storage compartment.

[0040] The front flap 4 is, for example, designed in multiple parts, in particular in two parts. Thus, the front flap has, for example, at least a first front flap part 8 and at least one second front flap part 9, which is attached, in particular, to the first front flap part 8. The front flap parts 8 and 9 are, for example, designed separately from each other. The first front flap part 8 is, for example, designed as an outer part. The second front flap part 9 is, for example, designed as an inner part. Thus, the second front flap part 9 is, for example, covered, at least partially, in particular with respect to the surroundings 6, by the first front flap part 8.

[0041] Furthermore, the front flap 4, in particular the first front flap section 8, has a folded edge 10, which is arranged or formed at a front end 12 of the front flap 4, in particular of the first front flap section 8, in the longitudinal direction 11 of the vehicle. The folded edge 10 is preferably produced by means of crimping, whereby the folded edge 10 has, for example, a crimped edge, in particular formed by a radius, which can also be referred to as a crimp radius. The crimped edge is therefore in particular a rounded edge, which is thus in particular not angular in shape.

[0042] According to the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the second front flap section 9 is arranged or received in the fold 10 in certain areas. This means that the fold 10 at least partially, and in particular at least predominantly, defines a receiving area 13 in which the second front flap section 9 is arranged or received in certain areas. The first front flap section 8 is thus, for example, bent around the second front flap section 9 in certain areas, particularly in or through the fold 10.

[0043] How particularly good in Fig. As can be seen from Figure 2, the sealing element 1 has at least one first contact area 14, via which the sealing element 1 is arranged on the front flap 4, for example on the first front flap part 8, particularly at least in the closed position 3, preferably in the closed position 3 and in the open position of the front flap 4, so that, for example, the sealing element 1 bears against the front flap 4, for example the first front flap part 8, via the first contact area 14, in order to seal the front flap 4 from the environment 6. The first contact area 14 is, for example, designed as a sealing lip.

[0044] Furthermore, the sealing element 1 has at least one second contact area 15, which is distinct from the first contact area 14 and is preferably spaced apart from the first contact area 14. Via the second contact area 15, the sealing element 1 is, or can be, arranged at least indirectly on a component 16 of the motor vehicle that is formed separately from the front flap 4, at least in the closed position 3, for example, with respect to the closed position 3 and the open position exclusively in the closed position 3. The sealing element 1 is formed separately from the front flap 4 and separately from the component 16.In the closed position 3, and specifically in relation to the closed position 3 and the open position exclusively in the closed position, the front flap 4 is supported at least indirectly on the component 16, for example at least downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction 7, via the sealing element 1 and the contact areas 14 and 15. Thus, in the closed position 3, a gap extending, at least partially, in the vehicle's vertical direction 7, between the front flap 4 (for example, the first front flap section 8) and the component 16 is closed or bridged by the sealing element 1. The second contact area 15 is, for example, designed as a sealing lip.

[0045] The component 16 is, for example, designed as component 17 of a headlight 18 of the motor vehicle, whereby the sealing element 1 is arranged, or is arranged, at least indirectly on component 17, particularly via the second contact area 15, and / or the front flap 4 is supported, at least indirectly, on component 17 in the closed position 3 via the sealing element 1 and the contact areas 14 and 15. Component 17 is, for example, designed as the lens of the headlight 18. The lens is, for example, formed at least partially, and in particular predominantly or completely, from a plastic, in particular from polycarbonate.

[0046] In the Fig. 1 and in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the sealing element 1 is arranged over the second contact area 15 and / or supported over the second contact area 15 on the component 16 by at least one hard component 19, that is, by means of the hard component 19, which is arranged, for example, in particular at least indirectly or directly, on the component 16, and in particular attached to it, preferably on a side of the component 16 that points upwards in the vehicle vertical direction 7. The hard component 19 thus extends, for example, in particular in the vehicle vertical direction 7, between the sealing element 1 and the component 16, and in particular when the front flap 4 is in the closed position 3.The hard component 19 thus serves, for example, as a bearing surface for the sealing element 1, so that the sealing element 1 does not rest directly on the component 16, but rather is supported by the component 16 via the hard component 19. The stiffness of the hard component 19 is, for example, higher than the stiffness of the sealing element 1. Alternatively or additionally, the sealing element 1 may be more elastic or flexible, and in particular softer, than the hard component 19. The hard component 19 can also be referred to as the first hard component 19.

[0047] Furthermore, the in Fig. 1 and in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the sealing element 1 has at least one predetermined bending point 20, via which the contact areas 14, 15 are connected to each other at least indirectly, and in particular directly. Preferably, when the front flap 4 is pivoted, in particular from the open position to the closed position 3, the contact areas 14, 15 are pivotable or foldable relative to each other by at least partial deformation of the sealing element 1, that is, by at least partial deformation of the sealing element 1, relative to each other, for example about at least one bending axis running through the predetermined bending point 20. The bending axis can also be referred to as the second pivoting axis.The pivoting about the bending axis or the deformation of the sealing element 1 is, in particular, a controlled pivoting or a controlled deformation. This is achieved, for example, by the sealing element 1 having at least one material weakening in the area of ​​the intended bending point 20, especially at the intended bending point 20. In other words, the intended bending point 20 is designed as a material weakening, in particular a local material weakening, of the sealing element 1. Thus, the intended bending point 20 is, for example, thinned. The pivoting of the contact areas 14, 15 is, in this case, a pivoting of the contact areas 14, 15 relative to each other from a first position 21 to a second position 22 that differs from the first position 21.In the first position 21, for example, the sealing element 1 has a first form, and in the second position 22, for example, the sealing element has a second form that differs from the first form. In . Fig. 2 shows the sealing element 1 in the first position 21. The second position 22 is shown in Fig.However, this is further illustrated by means of dashed lines 23. Thus, the sealing element 1 is in the first position 21 when the front flap 4 is in the open position. Furthermore, the sealing element 1 is in the second position 22 when the front flap 4 is in the closed position 3. Thus, for example, in the second position 22, the sealing element 1 rests, in particular directly, against the hard component 19, whereby the sealing element 1 in the second position 22 is arranged on the component 16 via the second contact area 15 mediated by the hard component 19.

[0048] To significantly improve the comfort of the vehicle, particularly its acoustic performance, at least the first contact area 14 of the sealing element 1 surrounds the fold 10, especially the crimped edge, at least partially. Thus, the sealing element 1, or rather the first contact area 14, extends, for example, in the longitudinal direction 11 of the vehicle at the front around the crimped edge of the hood 4, with the sealing element 1 bearing against the hood 4 and, for example, against the component 16. This allows the airflow passing over the component and / or the hood 4 during vehicle travel to be influenced, in a targeted manner, by means of the sealing element 1, thereby preventing or minimizing, for example, the transition from laminar to turbulent airflow.Thus, turbulence in the airflow in the area of ​​the sealing element 1, particularly in the area between the sealing element 1 and the front flap 4, is especially low, and in particular lower than if the sealing element 1 did not extend around the flanged edge. This results in particularly low levels of noise, especially that caused by wind. The sealing element 1 is therefore, in particular, a front flap seal with a sound-dampening function.

[0049] Preferably, the first contact area 14 has two partial sections 24, 25 extending obliquely or perpendicularly to each other. A first partial section 24 abuts, for example, a first sealing surface of the front flap 4, for example, of the first front flap section 8, in particular the folded edge 10. The second partial section 25 abuts, for example, a second sealing surface of the front flap 4, in particular of the first front flap section 8, for example, the folded edge 10. The first contact area 14 is therefore designed to correspond, in particular, to the front flap 4, preferably to the folded edge 10. The partial sections 24, 25 project, for example, obliquely or perpendicularly, from each other. The second partial section 25 projects, for example, at least as far from the first partial section 24 as the distance extending between the first partial section 24 and a bending axis of the folded edge 10.The bending axis can be understood in particular as an axis around which the front flap 8 is to be bent, or is bent, or has been bent to form the fold 10. For example, the second sub-area 25 is designed as a sealing nose, in particular as a sealing nose around the flanged edge.

[0050] For example, the sealing element 1 is to be arranged on an inner surface 10a of the fold 10, for example, a previously mentioned first sealing area, via the first sub-area 24. Via the second sub-area 25, the sealing element 1 is to be arranged, for example, in particular directly, on a fold edge 10b, in particular a flanged edge, of the fold 10. The fold edge 10b is, for example, the previously mentioned second sealing surface. The first sealing surface, for example, faces downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction 7 and backwards in the vehicle's longitudinal direction 11 when the vehicle is closed 3. The second sealing surface, for example, faces downwards in the vehicle's vertical direction 7 and forwards in the vehicle's longitudinal direction 11 when the vehicle is closed 3. Thus, the sealing surfaces extend, for example, obliquely or perpendicularly to each other.

[0051] Preferably, the sealing element 1, in particular the first sub-section 24, has at least one mounting surface 26 for attaching the sealing element 1 to the front flap 4, in particular to the first front flap part 8, preferably to the fold 10. The mounting surface 26 is designed, for example, as an adhesive surface 27 for attaching the sealing element 1 to the front flap 4 by means of adhesive. Thus, the mounting surface 26 is designed, for example, as a bearing surface, i.e., as a shoulder, for an adhesive tape by means of which the sealing element 1, in particular the first sub-section 24, and the front flap 4, for example, a further front flap part 8, in particular the fold 10 or the first sealing surface, can be bonded together or are bonded together or are bonded together.

[0052] Preferably, the sealing element 1 has at least one support area 28, via which the sealing element 1 can be supported, for example, upwards in the vehicle's vertical direction 7 and / or rearwards in the vehicle's longitudinal direction 11, particularly directly, against a hard component 29 arranged on the front flap 4, which can be referred to as the second hard component 29. This support is preferably provided by at least one rib 30 of the second hard component 29. Preferably, however, several such ribs 30 are provided. This means that the sealing element 1 can be supported, for example, directly, on the hard component 29 via the support area 28 and the ribs 30. The rib 30, or the respective rib 30, rests, for example, directly, against the support area 28 and against the first front flap part 8, particularly against the fold 10.This is achieved, for example, via one and the same surface of rib 30 or the respective rib 30. Thus, the sealing element, for example, connects to the second hard component 29 in one and the same direction, in particular directly, via the support area 28 and the fold 10. For example, the second hard component 29 is arranged on the second front flap section 9, in particular attached to it. The sealing element 1 can be aligned or centered by means of the respective rib 30, which can therefore also be referred to as the respective alignment rib. Accordingly, the alignment ribs are provided, for example, on a trim edge of an outer skin of the front flap 4, with a tolerance to the flanging radius of, for example, ± 0.7 mm.The second hard component 29 is therefore in particular a component with alignment ribs in the form of the alignment ribs, whereby these alignment ribs are to be arranged, for example, on a trim edge of the flange edge.

[0053] The following describes an exemplary assembly sequence. For example, the second rigid component 29 is first positioned, and in particular attached, to the front flap 4, for example, the second front flap section 9. The rigid component 29, for example, with its ribs 30, is aligned with the trim edge of the flanged edge and tightened, for example, with screws. For example, a release liner is then removed from the aforementioned adhesive tape, allowing the sealing element 1 to be pressed against the front flap 4, in particular to achieve the aforementioned adhesion. The release liner can be understood to be, in particular, a liner of the adhesive tape. Any remaining tolerances can be compensated for, for example, subsequently by compressing the sealing element 1.For example, a soft component of another seal is omitted, as it can be replaced by the first hard component 19.

[0054] Preferably, the motor vehicle has headlights 18 spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction 31. This means that the motor vehicle has, for example, the aforementioned headlight 18 and at least one second headlight 18, which is designed separately from the headlight 18 and is spaced apart from the headlight 18, also referred to as the first headlight 18, particularly in the transverse direction 31. For example, it is provided that the sealing element 1 does not extend between the headlights 18 in the transverse direction 31. This means that an area extending between the headlights 18 in the transverse direction 31 is, for example, free of the sealing element 1.Preferably the motor vehicle has two such sealing elements 1, wherein the respective sealing element 1 is arranged in particular in the area of ​​the respective front headlight 18.

[0055] Numerals, such as "first," "second," "third," etc., are intended solely for differentiation and do not, in particular, indicate a sequence. This means that the corresponding numerals can be interchanged at will. Reference symbol list 1 sealing element 2 Front area 3. Closed position 4 Front flap 5 front recording area 6 Environment 7 Vehicle uphill 8 first front flap section 9 second front flap section 10 fold 10a Inside 10b Folded edge 11 Vehicle longitudinal direction 12 front end 13 Recording area 14 first investment area 15 second investment area 16 building elements 17 components 18 headlights 19 first hard component 20 Target bending point 21 first position 22 second position 23 dashed line 24 first sub-area 25 second sub-area 26 Mounting surface 27 adhesive surface 28 Support area 29 Hard component 30th rib 31 Vehicle transverse direction

Claims

[1] Sealing element (1) for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one first contact area (14) by means of which the sealing element (1) is to be arranged on a front flap (4) of the motor vehicle which is pivotable between a closed position (3) and at least one open position, and comprising at least one second contact area (15) by means of which the sealing element (1) is to be arranged at least indirectly on a component (16) of the motor vehicle which is formed separately from the front flap (4), wherein in the closed position (3) the front flap (4) can be supported at least indirectly on the component (16) via the sealing element (1) by means of the contact areas (14, 15), characterized by, that a fold (10) of the front flap (4) arranged at a front end (12) of the front flap (4) in the longitudinal direction (11) of the vehicle is to be surrounded at least partially by the first contact area (14), wherein the contact areas (14, 15) are connected to each other at least indirectly via a predetermined bending point (20), at which the contact areas (14, 15) can be pivoted relative to each other when the front flap (4) is pivoted into the closed position (3) by the component (16) at least indirectly acting on the sealing element (1) under deformation of the sealing element (1). [2] Sealing element (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the second installation area (15) is located further down in the vehicle upward direction (7) than the first installation area (14). [3] Sealing element (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the first installation area (14) has two sub-areas (24, 25) extending obliquely or perpendicularly to each other [4] Sealing element (1) according to claim 3, characterized by , that via a first of the sub-areas (24) the sealing element (1) is to be arranged on an inside (10a) of the fold (10) on the fold (10) and via the second of the sub-areas (25) the sealing element (1) is to be arranged on a fold edge (10b) of the fold (10). [5] Sealing element (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the sealing element (1) has at least one mounting surface (26) for attachment to the front flap (4). [6] Sealing element (1) according to claim 5, characterized by , that the mounting surface (26) is an adhesive surface (27) for attaching the sealing element (1) to the front flap (4) by means of adhesive bonding. [7] Arrangement of a sealing element (1) on a front area (2) of a motor vehicle, wherein the sealing element (1) is arranged via a first contact area (14) of the sealing element (1) on a front flap (4) of the motor vehicle which is pivotable between a closed position (3) and at least one open position, at least in the closed position (3), and the sealing element (1) is arranged via a second contact area (15) of the sealing element (1) at least indirectly on a component (16) of the motor vehicle which is formed separately from the front flap (4), wherein in the closed position the front flap (4) is supported at least indirectly on the component (16) via the sealing element (1) by means of the contact areas (14, 15), characterized by, that the first attachment area (14) surrounds at least partially a fold (10) of the front flap (4) arranged at a front end (12) of the front flap (4) in the longitudinal direction (11) of the vehicle, wherein the attachment areas (14, 15) are connected to each other at least indirectly via a predetermined bending point (20), at which the attachment areas (14, 15) can be pivoted relative to each other when the front flap (4) is pivoted into the closed position (3) by the component (16) at least indirectly acting on the sealing element (1) with deformation of the sealing element (1). [8] Arrangement according to claim 7, characterized by , that the sealing element (1) is arranged at least indirectly on a component (17) of a headlight (18) as the component (16) via the second mounting area (15). [9] Arrangement according to claim 7 or 8, characterized byat least one support area (28) by which the sealing element (1) is supported on a hard component (29) arranged on the front flap (4).

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