Motor vehicle lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock with a lock latch (4) and at least one locking pawl (5) for locking the lock latch (4), wherein the locking pawl (5) is associated with a release lever (8), wherein an actuating lever (10) is provided for manual actuation, which can be mechanically coupled to the release lever (8) via a coupling arrangement (11), wherein the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a locking state in which an actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) is a free stroke, wherein the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a double stroke state in which a first actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) is a free stroke and the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a coupled state, wherein an electric drive (17) is provided.It is proposed that the electric drive (17) brings the coupling arrangement (11) into the locked state in a locking operation, that the electric drive (17) brings the coupling arrangement (11) into the double-stroke state in an unlocking operation, and that the electric drive (17) effects the opening operation, the locking operation and the unlocking operation each by adjusting the release lever (8).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a motor vehicle lock according to the preamble of claim 1 and to a method for operating a motor vehicle lock according to the preamble of claim 12.

[0002] The motor vehicle lock in question is used for all types of locking elements on a motor vehicle. This includes, in particular, locking elements such as side doors, rear doors, tailgates, trunk lids, hoods, and the like. These locking elements can generally be designed as hinged or sliding doors.

[0003] The prior art (EP 2 799 648 A2), from which the invention is based, relates to a motor vehicle lock comprising a latch and a pawl as locking elements. The latch can be moved into a closed position in which it engages with a locking element and is secured by the pawl. The motor vehicle lock has an operating lever which can be coupled to a door handle for manual operation of the lock. The operating lever moves a release lever of the motor vehicle lock, which disengages the pawl.

[0004] The known vehicle lock is further equipped with a double-stroke function (two-stroke opening) for manual operation, which is implemented by means of a clutch arrangement in the coupling of the actuating lever and the release lever. In the double-stroke state, the first actuating stroke of the actuating lever is merely a free stroke; however, the clutch arrangement is moved into an engaged state, so that the locking pawl can be released with a subsequent, second actuating stroke and the vehicle lock can be opened. An adjusting drive is provided in the prior art for activating the double-stroke function and for converting to other locking states.

[0005] One challenge is that the design of the coupling assembly and the adjustment drive for implementing the double-stroke function is relatively complex and requires additional installation space. Furthermore, the engagement of the double-stroke function must be ensured by controlling the adjustment drive.

[0006] The invention is based on the problem of designing and further developing the known motor vehicle lock in such a way that the lock states for manual operation, including a double stroke state, are implemented in a simple manner.

[0007] The above problem is solved by the features of claim 1.

[0008] The invention assumes that the vehicle lock has an electric drive for electromechanical actuation, which can also disengage the locking pawl by means of the release lever. The essential consideration is that the same drive is used to perform both the double-stroke function and, by means of the coupling arrangement, to activate a locking state that serves in particular as an anti-theft device. To reduce the complexity of the coupling arrangement, the locking state and the double-stroke state are also achieved by adjusting the release lever.

[0009] Specifically, it is proposed that the electric drive brings the coupling arrangement into the locked state in a locking process, that the electric drive brings the coupling arrangement into the double-stroke state in an unlocking process, and that the electric drive effects the opening process, the locking process and the unlocking process each by adjusting the release lever.

[0010] According to claim 2, the electric drive requires only one drive motor, thereby reducing the system's complexity, resulting in a simpler design and fewer moving parts. This, in addition to reducing costs, can improve the reliability of the vehicle lock.

[0011] Particularly preferably, the locking state and the double stroke state can be effected by adjusting the release lever against a release direction according to claims 3 and 4, so that the coupling arrangement can be influenced independently of the opening process.

[0012] The preferred embodiments according to claims 6 to 11 relate to the further implementation of the coupling arrangement and its interaction with the release lever. A storage element is particularly preferred, which can hold a coupling element in a passive state for the double-stroke function, wherein the coupling element can be released by means of the storage element with the first actuation stroke. The coupling element can preferably retain the passive state permanently in the locked state of the coupling arrangement. Overall, this ensures a particularly simple design of the coupling arrangement, requiring a small number of components.

[0013] According to a further teaching as claimed in claim 12, which has independent significance, a method for operating a motor vehicle lock is claimed. It is essential that the electric drive brings the coupling arrangement into the locked state in a locking process and that the electric drive brings the coupling arrangement into the double-stroke state in an unlocking process. Reference may be made to all embodiments of the proposed motor vehicle lock.

[0014] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing that merely illustrates exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows Fig. 1. A motor vehicle door with a), b) a proposed motor vehicle lock in perspective drawings, Fig. 2 a) to d) States of the motor vehicle lock during the motorized opening process in side views, Fig. 3 a) to c) States of the motor vehicle lock during the locking process in side views, Fig. 4 a) to c) States of the motor vehicle lock during the unlocking process in side views, Fig. 5 a) to c) States of the motor vehicle lock in the first actuation stroke in side views, Fig. 6 a), b) States of the motor vehicle lock in the second actuation stroke in side views, Fig. 7 a) to f) a further embodiment of the coupling arrangement in respective side views and Fig. 8 a) to f) States of the motor vehicle lock in further side views.

[0015] The embodiment shown in the figures, and thus the preferred embodiment, relates to a motor vehicle lock 1 for a locking element 2 of a motor vehicle 3. With regard to the design of the locking element 2, reference may be made to the introductory descriptions, whereby in the present case in Fig. Figure 1 illustrates the operation of the motor vehicle lock 1 for a locking element 2 designed as a side door. However, all descriptions also apply to all other types of locking elements 2 of the motor vehicle 3.

[0016] The vehicle lock 1 is equipped with a latch 4 and at least one locking pawl 5. The latch 4 is adjustable to at least one locked position, preferably a main locked position and optionally a pre-locking position, for holding the locking element 6, and to an open position for releasing the locking element 6. The latch 4 is preferably designed to pivot about a geometric latch axis 7.

[0017] The locking pawl 5, which interacts with the latch 4, can be moved into an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the locking pawl 5 prevents the latch 4, which is in the closed position, from being moved in its opening direction. In the disengaged position, the locking pawl 5 releases the latch 4 in its opening direction, so that the latch 4 can, for example, be spring-loaded and / or moved into the open position by extending the locking element 6.

[0018] A release lever 8 is provided, which generally serves to move the pawl 5 into the released position. The release lever 8 is associated with the pawl 5 such that moving the release lever 8 in a release direction from a starting position to a release position causes the pawl 5 to be released.

[0019] The release lever 8 is here and preferably from the starting position ( Fig. 2a)) into the trigger position ( Fig. 2c)) is designed to pivot about a geometric release lever axis 9. The initial position and the release position can correspond to the respective rotational positions of the release lever 8 about the release lever axis 9. The pivoting from the initial position to the release position occurs during an opening movement, with the release direction corresponding to the pivoting direction of the release lever 8 during the opening movement. In the Fig. In sections 2 to 6, 7b), 7d), 7f), and 8, the release direction corresponds to a clockwise pivoting of the release lever 8 around the release lever axis 9. The opening movement of the release lever 8 causes the release lever 8 to lift the locking pawl 5 and thus move it into the lifted position.

[0020] An actuating lever 10 is provided for manual operation, which can be mechanically coupled to the release lever 8 via a coupling arrangement 11. The actuating lever 10 is designed for coupling with a control element such as a door handle and, in the installed state of the vehicle lock 1, is mechanically connected to, for example, an interior door handle 12, an exterior door handle 13, and / or an emergency operating element via a connecting element 14, such as a Bowden cable or a linkage. An actuating force manually applied to the control element can be transmitted to the actuating lever 10, causing the actuating lever 10 to perform an actuating stroke.

[0021] The actuating lever 10 is here, and preferably during the actuating stroke, manually pivotable about a geometric actuating lever axis 15 from an unactuated position to an actuated position. Preferably, the actuating lever 10 is biased towards the unactuated position by an actuating lever spring 16, so that, for example, the unactuated position is returned under spring tension when the door handle is released.

[0022] By mechanically coupling the actuating lever 10 to the release lever 8, the release lever 8 can be pivoted by means of the coupling arrangement 11 to perform the opening movement with the actuating stroke, so that the actuating lever 10 manually lifts the locking pawl 5 by means of the release lever 8. However, whether the actuating stroke is transferred to moving the release lever 8 into the release position depends on the state of the coupling arrangement 11.

[0023] The coupling assembly 11 can be brought into a locked position in which the actuation stroke of the actuating lever 10 is a free stroke relative to the release lever 8. During this free stroke, the actuating stroke does not move the release lever 8 into the release position. Because of this free stroke, manual release via the actuating lever 10 is not possible. If the actuating lever 10 is intended for internal operation, for example, the locked position can be used to achieve a childproof and / or theft-proof locking state with respect to manual operation. If the actuating lever 10 is intended for external operation, for example, the locked position can be used to achieve a centrally locked and / or theft-proof locking state with respect to manual operation.

[0024] An exemplary sequence of the actuation stroke with the coupling arrangement 11 in the locked state is the sequence of Fig. 3b) on Fig. 3c). The movement of the actuating lever 10 does not result in any adjustment of the release lever 8. Subsequently, the actuating lever 10 can be returned from the actuated position to the unactuated position, so that the state from 3c) is restored. Fig. 3b) is assumed. The release lever 8 and the locking pawl 5 remain unaffected by the actuation stroke in the locked state.

[0025] Furthermore, a double-stroke function is implemented via the coupling assembly 11. The coupling assembly 11 can be brought into a double-stroke state in which the first actuation stroke of the actuating lever 10 with respect to the release lever 8 is a free stroke. During this free stroke, the release lever 8 is not moved into the release position. Manual lifting via the first actuation stroke is thus prevented due to the free stroke. However, the coupling assembly 11 is brought into a engaged state via this free stroke following the first actuation stroke.

[0026] With the coupling assembly 11 engaged, a second actuation stroke of the actuating lever 10 moves the release lever 8 into the release position for disengaging the locking pawl 5. Therefore, the vehicle lock 1 can be opened manually via the actuating lever 10. The second actuation stroke can occur sequentially with the first actuation stroke, which moved the coupling assembly into the engaged position.

[0027] An exemplary sequence of the first actuation stroke is the sequence of Fig. 4c), 5a), 5b), 5c). In the sequence of Fig. 5a), Fig. 5b), Fig. Figure 5c) shows the return of the actuating lever 10 from the actuated position to the unactuated position following the first actuating stroke. The release lever 8 and the locking pawl 5 remain unaffected by the first actuating stroke. An exemplary sequence of the second actuating stroke is shown in the following sequence: Fig. 5c), 6a), 6b). The second actuation stroke moves the release lever 8 into the release position and thus releases the locking pawl 5 ( Fig. 6a)). In the sequence of Fig. 6a), Fig. Figure 6b) shows the return of the actuating lever 10 from the actuated position to the unactuated position from the second actuating stroke.

[0028] The terms "first" actuation stroke and "second" actuation stroke are used here to clarify the significance of the actuation stroke for the double-stroke function. In fact, the first actuation stroke, the second actuation stroke, and the actuation stroke mentioned in connection with the locking state can all occur in the same way with respect to the movement of the actuating lever 10, for example, as a respective pivoting from the unactuated position to the actuated position.

[0029] An electric drive 17 is provided which, during a motorized opening process, moves the release lever 8 into the release position to disengage the locking pawl 5. During the motorized opening process, the electric drive 17 thus serves as the opening actuator for the vehicle lock 1. For example, a door handle of the locking element 2 is equipped with a sensor, such as a push button, which detects when the door handle is operated. The drive 17 can then be activated to disengage the locking pawl 5.

[0030] An example of the motorized opening process is the Fig. 2 to be taken from, whereby here a driving force of the electric drive 17 moves the release lever 8 from the starting position ( Fig. 2a)) into the trigger position ( Fig. 2c)) brings about the release of the locking pawl 5. Preferably, this is carried out in the sequence of Fig. 2c), 2d) shown, the return of the release lever 8 to its initial position, in particular by means of the electric drive 17 and / or via a spring load. Preferably, the motorized opening process and the manual opening process with respect to the release lever 8 and the locking pawl 5 are carried out in the same way.

[0031] It is essential that the electric drive 17 brings the coupling assembly 11 into the locked state in a locking operation and that the electric drive 17 brings the coupling assembly 11 into the double-stroke state in an unlocking operation. The electric drive 17 therefore performs not only the motorized lifting of the pawl 5 but also the generation of both the locked and the double-stroke states.

[0032] Furthermore, it is essential that the electric drive 17 effects the opening, locking, and unlocking processes by adjusting the release lever 8. Adjusting the release lever 8 is therefore causally responsible for the motorized release of the pawl 5, the locking state, and the unlocking state. Additional components for further action chains between the drive 17 and the coupling assembly 11 are therefore unnecessary. Preferably, the drive 17 can selectively—regardless of the previous state—cause the motorized release of the pawl 5, the locking state, or the double-stroke state by adjusting the release lever 8 in a manner specifically designed for each of these actions.

[0033] Here, and preferably, it is provided that the electric drive 17 comprises exactly one electric drive motor 18 by means of which the opening, locking, and unlocking processes can be carried out. The electric drive motor 18 is, in particular, a rotary electric motor, which acts, in particular, indirectly on the release lever 8. An output movement of the drive motor 18 is translated into the adjustment of the release lever 8 during the opening, locking, and unlocking processes. No further actuators are required for the opening, locking, and unlocking processes.

[0034] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electric drive 17 adjusts the release lever 8 in the locking process into a locking position which is provided opposite to the release direction from the initial position.

[0035] The locking position can be achieved here – in contrast to adjusting the release lever 8 in the release direction during the motorized opening process – by operating the drive 17 in the opposite direction. The locking process is described in the sequence of Fig. 3a), Fig. 3b) is shown, where the release lever 8 is adjusted counterclockwise via the drive 17. The actuation stroke thus represents a free stroke with respect to the release lever 8, which can be seen from the Fig. 3b), Fig. 3c).

[0036] A sensor arrangement is particularly preferred which detects at least when the release lever 8 assumes the initial position, and preferably also when it assumes the locking and / or release positions. The actuator 17 can be controlled based on the sensor arrangement's detection.

[0037] Furthermore, and preferably, it is provided here that the electric drive 17 moves the release lever 8 from the locked position to the initial position during the unlocking process. The unlocking process puts the coupling assembly 11 into the double-stroke state. Here, and preferably, the release lever 8 is moved from the locked position to the initial position in the release direction ( Fig. 4b), Fig. 4c)).

[0038] The engaged state of the coupling arrangement 11 with the release lever 8 in the starting position ( Fig. 4a)), the unlocking process can initially involve moving the release lever 8 into the locking position, followed by a subsequent movement from the locking position back to the initial position. This again creates the double-stroke state.

[0039] Furthermore, and preferably, it is provided here that the electric drive 17, during the motorized opening process, brings the clutch assembly 11 into the engaged state by moving the release lever 8 into the release position. Here, and preferably, the release lever 8 has a switching contour 19 which, when the release lever 8 is moved from its initial position to the release position, can be brought into mechanical contact with the clutch assembly 11 in order to bring the clutch assembly 11 into the engaged state. The switching contour 19 is in Fig. 2 highlighted Fig. 2b) shows a switching position of the release lever 8 provided between the starting position and the release position, in which the clutch arrangement 11 is brought into the engaged state.

[0040] Preferably, during the opening process, the electric drive 17, following the adjustment of the release lever 8 to the release position, brings the coupling arrangement 11 into the double-stroke state, preferably by returning the release lever 8 to its initial position. As described above, the double-stroke state can be achieved here, and preferably, by adjusting the release lever 8 to the locking position and then returning it to its initial position.

[0041] It is particularly preferred that the coupling arrangement 11 has a coupling element 20 which, in the engaged state, is in an active state in which the coupling element 20 converts an actuating stroke of the actuating lever 10 into adjusting the release lever 8 into the release position, and which, in the locked state and / or in the double stroke state, is in a passive state in which the coupling element 20 allows the actuating stroke to run freely.

[0042] The clutch element 20 can therefore serve as a force converter between actuating lever 10 and release lever 8 in the active position, but allow free running in the passive position, for example by the clutch element 20 being without contact to the release lever 8 and / or to the actuating lever 10.

[0043] Furthermore, and preferably, the coupling element 20 is provided to be pivotable. Preferably, the active state and / or the passive state correspond to respective angular positions of the coupling element 20 about a geometric coupling element axis 21. The active state and / or the passive state correspond, or preferably correspond, to respective angular positions of the coupling element 20, particularly relative to the actuating lever 10. Here, and preferably, the coupling element 20 is biased in the direction of the active state by means of a coupling element spring 22.

[0044] In the representation from the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 and, according to a preferred embodiment, the coupling element 20 is mounted coaxially with the release lever 8. Thus, the release lever axis 9 corresponds to the coupling element axis 21. Here, and preferably, the actuating lever 10 has an actuating element 23 which can be brought into mechanical contact with the coupling element 20 when it is in the active state, in order to translate the actuating stroke into the adjustment of the release lever 8. In the passive state of the coupling element 20, on the other hand, the actuating element 23 passes the release lever 8, so that the free stroke is effected.

[0045] Preferably, a pivoting limiter 24 is provided between the coupling element 20 and the release lever 8. Here, and preferably, the pivoting limiter 24 is implemented with a bend on the release lever 8, against which the coupling element 20 can be brought into contact. The coupling element 20 is spring-loaded relative to the release lever 8 against the pivoting limiter 24 via the coupling element spring 22 (in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 clockwise). The pivot limiter 24 causes the coupling element 20 to rotate freely in one direction, here against the spring load. In the other direction of rotation, the coupling element 20 can move the release lever 8 via the pivot limiter 24 and thus adjust it. Likewise, the release lever 8 can move the coupling element 20 via the pivot limiter 24, here and preferably into the passive state.

[0046] The Fig. Figures 3a) and b) show the locking process in which the coupling element 20 is removed from the active state ( Fig. 3a)) into the passive state ( Fig. 3b)). The release lever 8 is moved from its initial position to the locking position by means of the drive 17, whereby the pivot limiter 24 pivots the coupling element 20 into the passive state. With a subsequent actuating stroke, the actuating element 23 moves past the release lever 8 ( Fig. 3c)). If, on the other hand, the clutch element 20 is in the active state during the actuation stroke, the actuation stroke is translated into the adjustment of the release lever 8 by means of the clutch element 20 ( Fig. 6a)), here and preferably via the swivel limit 24.

[0047] Furthermore, and preferably, it is provided here that the coupling arrangement 11 has a storage element 25 which, in the double-stroke state, is in a storage state in which the storage element 25 holds the coupling element 20 in the passive position, and which can be brought into a release state via the idle stroke from the first actuation stroke in which the storage element 25 releases the coupling element 20 to assume the active position.

[0048] Here, and preferably, the storage element 25 is designed to pivot about a geometric storage element axis 26. The storage state and / or the release state can correspond to respective angular positions about the storage element axis 26. Here, and preferably, the storage element 25 is biased in the direction of the storage state by means of a storage element spring 27.

[0049] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the storage element 25 assumes the memory state during the locking process, which, among other things, Fig. 4b) is shown. The storage element 25 engages here, and preferably in the storage state, the coupling element 20, which is in the passive state. The storage element 25 retains the storage state with a subsequent unlocking process ( Fig. 4c)). Due to the engagement by the storage element 25, the coupling element 20 remains in a passive state, preferably. Accordingly, the first actuation stroke is a free stroke, since the actuating lever 10 passes by the coupling element 20 ( Fig. 5a)). With the first actuation stroke, however, the storage element 25 is brought into the released state, here via a mechanical contact to the actuating lever 10 and preferably to the actuating element 23. In the sequence of the Fig. 5a), Fig. 5b), Fig. 5c) It can be recognized that the actuating element 23 can be guided past the clutch element 20 via the freewheel of the clutch element 20 when the actuating lever 10 is reset. The release state enables the clutch element 20 to assume the active state. The clutch element 20 prevents the storage element 25 from returning to the storage state. The second actuating stroke can then be effective with respect to adjusting the release lever 8 ( Fig. 6a)).

[0050] As in Fig. As can be seen in 3a), with an actuation stroke in the locked state, the storage element 25 is indeed adjusted via the release lever 8. However, since the coupling element 20 is held in the passive state via the release lever 8, the storage element 25 returns to its stored state with the actuation stroke in the locked state.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the storage element 25 assumes or retains the released state during the opening process. The previously mentioned switching contour 19 of the release lever 8 can thereby come into mechanical contact with the storage element 25 in order to bring the storage element 25 into the released state ( Fig. 2b)). Therefore, the motorized opening process can be carried out by pivoting the coupling element 20 with the release lever 8 while it rests against the pivoting limit 24. This advantageously avoids the electric drive 17 having to work against the force of the coupling element spring 22.

[0052] In the representation from Fig. 7 and according to a further preferred embodiment, the coupling element 20 is pivotably mounted on the actuating lever 10. Fig. Figures 7a) - 7b); 7c) - 7d); 7e) - 7f) each show the same states in side views from different viewing angles. The drawing plane of the Fig. 7a), Fig. 7c), 7e) is perpendicular to the actuating lever axis 15 and the drawing plane of the Fig. 7b), Fig. 7d), 7f) is perpendicular to the release lever axis 9. Here, and preferably, the storage element axis 26 is aligned parallel to the actuating lever axis 15.

[0053] The Fig. 7a), Fig. Figure 7b) shows the engaged state of the coupling arrangement 11. The coupling element 20 is in the active position and can be brought into mechanical contact with the release lever 8 by pivoting the actuating lever 10 in the actuating stroke (not shown), so that the release lever 8 is adjusted.

[0054] The Fig. Figures 7c and 7d show the locked state of the coupling assembly 11, which is achieved by moving the release lever 8 into the locked position. The release lever 8 moves the storage element 25 into the stored state via a mechanical contact. The storage element 25, in turn, moves the coupling assembly 11 back into the passive state via a mechanical contact. In the locked position, the release lever 8 holds the storage element 25 in the stored position. Any subsequent actuation stroke is a free stroke, as the coupling element 20 passes the release lever 8.

[0055] The Fig. 7e), Fig. Figures 7f) show the double-stroke state of the clutch assembly 11, which is achieved by moving the release lever 8 from the locked position to the initial position. The storage element 25 initially remains in the storage state, in particular due to a spring load with a tilting spring. However, unlike in the locked state, the storage element 25 is not held by the release lever 8. A first actuation stroke then performed is indeed a free stroke, since the clutch element 20 again passes the release lever 8. With this first actuation stroke, the storage element 25 is brought into the release state via the clutch element 20, for example by exceeding the tipping point of the tilting spring. This releases the clutch element 20 to assume the active position, thus exiting the engaged state. Fig. 7a), Fig. 7b) is achieved. A subsequent second actuation stroke then opens the vehicle lock 1.

[0056] The release lever 8 can be coupled to the pawl 5 via a direct mechanical contact for lifting. According to further preferred embodiments, the pawl 5 is part of a pawl system, which is further described by means of Fig. 8 is explained. These configurations can be further developments of all the above-mentioned configurations of the motor vehicle lock 1.

[0057] Fig. Figure 8a) shows the vehicle lock 1 in the open state with the latch 4 in the open position. With the latch 4 in the open position, the locking element 6 can be inserted into a locking element receptacle 28 of the latch 4. The locking element 6 can be a locking bolt, a locking pin, or the like. Here, and preferably, the vehicle lock 1 is arranged on the locking element 2, while the locking element 6 is fixed to the vehicle body 3, although a reverse arrangement is conceivable. The locking element 6 allows the latch 4 to be adjusted into at least one closed position, here the main closed position ( Fig. 8b)) and further, in particular, the pre-closing position ( Fig. 8f)) is achieved here, preferably by pivoting the lock latch 4 about the lock latch axis 7 in the closing direction, in Fig. 8 counterclockwise.

[0058] The lock latch 4 is preferably associated with a lock latch spring 29 which loads the lock latch 4 in the direction of the open position, which according to a further embodiment can also load the locking pawl 5 in the direction of the inset state, further preferably via a sensor lever 31 which can be pivoted about a geometric sensor lever axis 30 (cf. Fig. 1) The sensor lever 31 can serve for the sensory detection of a state of the locking pawl 5, in particular the engagement state and / or the lifting state.

[0059] Furthermore, it is preferably provided here that the pawl 5 is pivotably mounted on a pivotable pawl lever 32, which can be moved from a normal position ( Fig. 8a), Fig. 8b), Fig. 8c), 8f)), in which the pawl 5 can be moved into the inset position, by means of the release lever 8 into a deflected position ( Fig. 8e)), in which the pawl 5 is moved into the lifted position. The pawl lever 32 is designed to pivot about a geometric pawl lever axis 33.

[0060] In the open position of the vehicle lock 1, the locking pawl lever 32 is in its normal position. The locking pawl 5 rests against the lock latch 4 under spring pressure ( Fig. 8a)). When the latch 4 is moved into a closed position, the spring-loaded locking pawl 5 can fall further in and thus enter the closed position. In the closed position, the locking pawl 5 locks the latch 4, which is in the closed position, against moving in its opening direction. By falling into this position, the locking pawl 5 engages a main latch 34 (main closed position). Fig. 8b)) or pre-latch 35 (pre-closing position; Fig. 8f)) the castle trap 4.

[0061] By adjusting the locking pawl lever 32 to the deflection position using the release lever 8, the locking pawl 5 is brought into the lifted position, in which the locking pawl 5 releases the lock latch 4 in its opening direction (see sequence of Fig. 8b), Fig. 8c), 8d), 8e)).

[0062] Preferably, the locking lever 32 and the locking pawl 5 form a first toggle lever mechanism 36. The pivotable mounting of the locking pawl 5 on the locking lever 32 constitutes the first toggle joint 37 of the first toggle lever mechanism 36. The release lever 8, with its opening movement, causes the first toggle lever mechanism 36 to buckle, moving the locking pawl 5 into the lifted position.

[0063] The release lever 8 can be coupled to the locking pawl lever 32 via a direct mechanical contact for adjusting it into the deflection position. Fig. 8 and, according to a preferred embodiment, the release lever 8 is coupled to the locking pawl lever 32 by means of an intermediate lever 38. The intermediate lever 38 engages here, and preferably at the first knee joint 37.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, a coupling arrangement 39 is provided which couples the intermediate lever 38 and the release lever 8. A coupling lever 41 pivotable about a geometric coupling lever axis 40 is further preferably provided. Here, and preferably, the intermediate lever 38 is rotatably connected to the coupling lever 41. The intermediate lever 38 can form a second toggle lever mechanism 42 with the coupling lever 41, which folds during the opening movement. The coupling lever 41 and the intermediate lever 38 are connected to each other via a second toggle joint 43, with the coupling arrangement 39 preferably being arranged at the second toggle joint 43. The first toggle lever mechanism 36 and the second toggle lever mechanism 42 are in Fig. 8 is highlighted with simple lines for clarity, but is actually implemented using the components mentioned.

[0065] A toggle lever mechanism is a mechanical transmission system with levers connected by two joints. This allows a small input force to be introduced into the lever mechanism over a large stroke, resulting, according to the lever principle, in a small stroke with a large output force. The transmission ratio changes, and in particular increases, with increasing stroke. In this way, a relatively large transmission ratio from the drive side to the output side, i.e., to the pawl 5, can be achieved. This ensures that the locking mechanism can be opened with low force. The proposed multiple functions of the release lever 8—to disengage the pawl 5, bring about the locking state, and to achieve the double-stroke state—can thus be implemented with a compact drive motor 18.

[0066] The release lever 8 is preferably equipped with a release contour 44. During an opening movement of the release lever 8, the release contour 44 guides the coupling arrangement 39 such that the locking pawl 5 is moved from the engaged state to the disengaged state. The coupling arrangement 39 is guided by direct mechanical contact with the release contour 44, preferably by sliding or rolling along the release contour 44.

[0067] The release lever 8 is here and preferably equipped with a locking contour 45 which, in the initial position of the release lever 8, prevents the pawl 5 from being moved into the lifted position ( Fig. 8b) and Fig. 8e)) and which, with the opening movement, releases the locking pawl 5 into the lift-out position ( Fig. 8c)). Preferably, the locking pawl lever 32 has an opening tendency in the engaged state of the locking pawl 5, whereby the locking pawl lever 32 is biased in the direction of the deflection position by means of the locking pawl 5 when a force acts on the lock latch 4 in the opening direction.

[0068] In particular, the first toggle lever mechanism 36 and / or the second toggle lever mechanism 42 are not moved past a dead center during the opening movement. Preferably, and as shown in the illustration below, Fig. 8b), Fig. 8f) When a force acts on the latch 4 in the opening direction, the first toggle lever mechanism 36 is loaded in the direction of buckling. Here, and preferably, the second toggle lever mechanism 42 is also loaded in the direction of buckling. The locking pawl 5 can be loaded in the direction of the inward fall-in state.

[0069] In the initial position of the release lever 8, the locking contour 45 blocks the opening tendency and thus, in this case, the buckling. The locking can be effected by a direct or indirect interaction between the release lever 8 and the locking pawl 5. It is particularly preferred that the locking contour 45 locks the locking pawl 5 via the coupling arrangement 39.

[0070] Preferably, the coupling arrangement 39 is provided in a recess in the release lever 8 forming the release contour 44 and the locking contour 45; further preferably, the recess is formed by an outer contour of the release lever 8.

[0071] In particular, the release contour 44 can have an output section 46 against which the coupling arrangement 39 rests in the initial position. The output section 46 can be designed as a circular arc segment around the release lever axis 9, so that, for example, at the beginning of the opening movement, the release lever 8 can be pivoted without adjusting the coupling arrangement 39. Starting from the inset state ( Fig. 8b)) The opening movement initially results in a release through the locking contour 45 ( Fig. 8c)), so that the locking pawl 5 reaches the lifted state via the interaction with the lock latch 4 and / or by means of the release lever 8 ( Fig. 8e)).

[0072] A folding action of the first toggle lever mechanism 36 preferably causes a rolling movement of the locking pawl 5 on the lock latch 4, here the main latch 34 ( Fig. 8c), 8d)). Preferably, the pawl 5 is guided against pivoting relative to the pawl lever 32 during lifting by means of a stop 47, which is provided in particular on the intermediate lever 38 ( Fig. 8d), 8e). Here, and preferably, the pivot angle of the pawl 5 relative to the pawl lever 32 is limited by the stop 47.

[0073] The release contour 44 can have a lifting section 48 which, during the opening movement, moves the coupling arrangement 39 to adjust the locking pawl 5 into the open position. After lifting, the locking pawl lever 32 can be moved back into its normal position, in particular by means of the release lever 8 via the locking contour 45 and / or by spring action (open position from Fig. 8a)). By closing the latch 4 again, especially if the locking lever 32 remains in the normal position, the main locking state can be restored. Fig. 8b) or the pre-closing state from Fig. 8f) can be achieved.

[0074] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the electric drive 17 preferably comprises an electric drive motor 18 which acts on the release lever 8 via a drive train. Here, and preferably, the drive train comprises a gearbox 49 designed as a worm gear, in which a worm 50 associated with a drive motor 18 of the gearbox 49 meshes with the teeth of a tooth element 51. Preferably, the release lever 8 is rotationally fixed to the tooth element 51. In particular, the gearbox 49 is designed to be non-self-locking, so that the release lever 8 can also be moved manually by reversing the action of the drive motor 18.

[0075] The electric drive 17 can be controlled via a control arrangement 52, which is, for example, integrated into a lock housing 53 of the vehicle lock 1. Alternatively, the control arrangement 52 can be implemented via a control unit external to the vehicle lock 1, as exemplified in Fig. Figure 1 shows that the vehicle lock 1 can form a vehicle locking system 3 with the control unit.

[0076] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the control arrangement 52 is provided with an electrical energy storage device for supplying the electric drive 17 in emergency operation. In emergency operation, discharging the energy storage device is used to supply the drive 17 with electrical energy. For example, the control arrangement 52 is equipped with at least one capacitor, such as at least one double-layer capacitor, and / or with a primary cell, thereby ensuring an energy supply for the opening drive. The emergency operation is intended for situations in which a normal supply voltage may not be sufficient to control the drive 17. Examples of this include a failure of the vehicle's electrical system, such as due to a significant discharge of a central battery or a failure of electrical lines in the vehicle's electrical system, and a crash involving the vehicle 3.The energy storage device ensures, in particular, that at least one unlocking process is carried out, which is done, for example, when emergency operation is initiated by means of the control unit 52. Accordingly, the vehicle 3 can be manually opened in emergency operation by means of a double stroke.

[0077] According to a further teaching, a method for operating a motor vehicle lock 1 with a lock latch 4 and at least one pawl 5 for locking the lock latch 4 is proposed, wherein the pawl 5 is associated with a release lever 8 such that moving the release lever 8 in a release direction from a starting position to a release position causes the pawl 5 to be lifted, wherein an actuating lever 10 is provided for manual actuation, which can be mechanically coupled to the release lever 8 via a coupling arrangement 11, wherein the coupling arrangement 11 can be brought into a locking state in which an actuating stroke of the actuating lever 10 is a free stroke with respect to the release lever 8, wherein the coupling arrangement 11 can be brought into a double stroke state.in which a first actuation stroke of the actuating lever 10 with respect to the release lever 8 is a free stroke and the clutch arrangement 11 can be moved from the first actuating stroke into a engaged state via the free stroke, in which a second actuation stroke of the actuating lever 10 moves the release lever 8 into the release position for disengaging the pawl 5, wherein an electric drive 17 is provided which moves the release lever 8 into the release position for disengaging the pawl 5 in a motorized opening process.

[0078] It is provided that the electric drive 17 brings the coupling assembly 11 into the locked state in a locking operation, and that the electric drive 17 brings the coupling assembly 11 into the double-stroke state in an unlocking operation. Preferably, the electric drive 17 can effect the opening, locking, and unlocking operations by adjusting the release lever 8. Reference may be made to all embodiments of the proposed motor vehicle lock 1. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] EP 2 799 648 A2

[0003]

Claims

[1] Motor vehicle lock with a latch (4) and at least one locking pawl (5) for locking the latch (4), wherein the locking pawl (5) is associated with a release lever (8) such that moving the release lever (8) in a release direction from a starting position to a release position causes the locking pawl (5) to be lifted, wherein an actuating lever (10) is provided for manual actuation, which can be mechanically coupled to the release lever (8) via a coupling arrangement (11), wherein the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a locking state in which an actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) is a free stroke with respect to the release lever (8), wherein the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a double-stroke state in which a first actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) is a free stroke with respect to the release lever (8) and the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a engaged state via the free stroke from the first actuating stroke in which a second actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) moves the release lever (8) into the release position for lifting the pawl (5), wherein an electric drive (17) is provided which, in a motorized opening process, moves the release lever (8) into the release position to lift the locking pawl (5), characterized by , that the electric drive (17) brings the coupling arrangement (11) into the locked state in a locking process, that the electric drive (17) brings the coupling arrangement (11) into the double stroke state in an unlocking process, and that the electric drive (17) effects the motorized opening process, the locking process and the unlocking process each by adjusting the release lever (8). [2] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 1, characterized by , that the electric drive (17) has exactly one electric drive motor (18) by means of which the motorized opening process, the locking process and the unlocking process can be carried out. [3] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the electric drive (17) moves the release lever (8) into a locking position during the locking process, which is provided from the initial position opposite to the release direction. [4] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 3, characterized by , that the electric drive (17) moves the release lever (8) from the locked position to the starting position during the unlocking process. [5] Motor vehicle lock according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the electric drive (17) in the motorized opening process brings the clutch arrangement (11) into the engaged state by adjusting the release lever (8) into the release position, preferably that the electric drive (17) in the motorized opening process brings the clutch arrangement (11) into the double-stroke state following the adjustment of the release lever (8) into the release position, preferably by returning the release lever (8) to its initial position. [6] Motor vehicle lock according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the coupling arrangement (11) has a coupling element (20) which, in the engaged state, is in an active state in which the coupling element (20) converts an actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) into adjusting the release lever (8) into the release position, and which, in the locked state and / or in the double stroke state, is in a passive state in which the coupling element (20) allows the actuating stroke to run freely. [7] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 6, characterized by , that the coupling element (20) is provided to be pivotable, preferably that the active state and / or the passive state correspond in particular to the respective angular positions of the coupling element (20). [8] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 7, characterized by, that the coupling element (20) is mounted coaxially with the release lever (8), preferably that a pivoting limit (24) is provided between the coupling element (20) and the release lever (8), by means of which the coupling element (20) can be adjusted into the passive position by adjusting the release lever (8). [9] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 7, characterized by , that the coupling element (20) is pivotably mounted on the actuating lever (10). [10] Motor vehicle lock according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized by , that the coupling arrangement (11) has a storage element (25) which in the double stroke state is in a storage state in which the storage element (25) holds the coupling element (20) in the passive position, and which can be brought into a release state via the idle stroke from the first actuation stroke in which the storage element (25) releases the coupling element (20) to assume the active position. [11] Motor vehicle lock according to claim 10, characterized by that the storage element (25) assumes the storage state during the locking process and retains the storage state in a subsequent unlocking process, preferably that the storage element (25) assumes or retains the release state during the opening process. [12] Method for operating a motor vehicle lock (1) with a lock latch (4) and at least one locking pawl (5) for locking the lock latch (4), wherein the locking pawl (5) is associated with a release lever (8) such that moving the release lever (8) in a release direction from a starting position to a release position causes the locking pawl (5) to be lifted, wherein an actuating lever (10) is provided for manual actuation, which can be mechanically coupled to the release lever (8) via a coupling arrangement (11), wherein the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a locking state in which an actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) is a free stroke with respect to the release lever (8), wherein the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a double-stroke state in which a first actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) is a free stroke with respect to the release lever (8) and the coupling arrangement (11) can be brought into a engaged state via the free stroke from the first actuating stroke in which a second actuating stroke of the actuating lever (10) moves the release lever (8) into the release position for lifting the pawl (5), wherein an electric drive (17) is provided which, in a motorized opening process, moves the release lever (8) into the release position to lift the locking pawl (5), characterized by , that the electric drive (17) brings the coupling arrangement (11) into the locked state in a locking process, that the electric drive (17) brings the coupling arrangement (11) into the double stroke state in an unlocking process, and that the electric drive (17) effects the opening process, the locking process and the unlocking process each by adjusting the release lever (8).

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