Closure element for a ball joint, ball joint with such a closure element and / or method for producing such a closure element

Abstract

The invention relates to a closure element (1, 19) for a ball joint (17) and having a contact surface (8), wherein the contact surface (8) has a plurality of form-locking elements (5). In order for the form-locking elements (5) to withstand any subsequent treatment that may be required during the manufacture of the closure element (1, 19) and / or to improve the connection between a bearing shell (21) and the closure element (1, 19), the closure element (1, 19) is characterized in that each form-locking element (5) has at least one projecting and / or protruding edge (6) relative to the contact surface (8).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a closure element for a ball joint and having a contact surface, wherein the contact surface has a plurality of positive-locking elements. Furthermore, the invention relates to a ball joint with such a closure element and a method for producing such a closure element.

[0002] Such a closure element or a ball joint with such a closure element is known from DE 10 2006 061 974 A1. Here, the multiple closure elements are implemented as positive-locking elements by means of a toothing, for example in the form of knurling. The closure element has the toothing on the contact surface or end face facing a bearing shell, whereby the toothing penetrates the material of the bearing shell when installed. This provides a rotation lock for the bearing shell.

[0003] However, the toothing, realized, for example, by knurling, is sensitive to any subsequent treatment that may be required during the production of the locking element, such as vibratory grinding and / or coating. This poses the risk that the toothing may be partially or completely ground down and / or that recesses in the toothing may be refilled. Furthermore, there may be a risk that, when the ball joint is assembled, the toothing, as known from the prior art, may not effectively penetrate the bearing shell.

[0004] Furthermore, there may be specified requirements regarding the straightness of the closure element. In this case, there is a risk that the specified straightness cannot be met, particularly in the area of the contact surface, due to the manufacturing of the toothing and / or the use of the necessary tools.

[0005] Depending on the design of the toothing, higher assembly forces may be necessary to manufacture or assemble the ball joint with the locking element than is the case without the toothing, in particular to ensure that the bearing shell fits snugly against the contact surface.

[0006] The object underlying the invention is to further develop a closure element and / or a ball joint and / or a method of the type mentioned above such that the positive locking elements withstand any subsequent treatment that may occur during manufacture of the closure element. In particular, grinding of the positive locking elements due to the subsequent treatment is to be avoided. Preferably, the assembly of a ball joint with such a closure element and / or a positive connection between the positive locking elements of the closure element and a bearing shell is to be improved. In particular, penetration or engagement of the positive locking elements into the bearing shell is to be improved. Preferably, an alternative embodiment is to be provided.

[0007] The object underlying the invention is achieved with a closure element according to claim 1 and / or by means of a ball joint according to claim 9 and / or by means of a method according to claim 10. Preferred developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims and in the following description.

[0008] The locking element is designed for a ball joint, particularly in a vehicle. Preferably, the locking element and / or the ball joint is designed for a chassis component in a chassis of a motor vehicle. Thus, the ball joint and / or the locking element can be a component of a chassis and / or a chassis component. Ball joints are used in a variety of ways in vehicle construction. Particularly in the chassis, ball joints are used to connect chassis components or parts, such as control arms, wheel carriers, tie rods, or the like, to each other or to the vehicle body or an axle carrier attached thereto.

[0009] The closure element can be designed as a closure cover or as a closure ring. As a closure cover, the closure element can close a joint housing or a housing opening of the joint housing. The closure cover can have an indentation and / or a bulge. In particular, the indentation and / or bulge serves to stiffen the closure cover. The indentation and / or bulge can be formed centrally or as a center of the closure cover. As a closure ring, the closure element can also close a joint housing, although in this case an inner joint part, in particular a pivot pin, can extend outwards from the joint housing and through the closure ring. In particular, the closure element is formed from a metal, steel, or aluminum.

[0010] The closure element has a contact surface, wherein the contact surface has a plurality of positive-locking elements. In particular, the closure element has a disk-shaped configuration or an annular-disk-shaped section, wherein the annular-disk-shaped section has the contact surface with the plurality of positive-locking elements. The contact surface can be designed as an annular-disk-shaped surface. Preferably, the plurality of positive-locking elements are designed to form a positive-locking connection with a bearing shell. In particular, due to the positive-locking connection between the bearing shell and the closure element, an anti-twist device for the bearing shell in relation to a joint housing can be formed or is formed at the same time.

[0011] According to the invention, each form-locking element has at least one projecting and / or protruding edge relative to the contact surface. In particular, the form-locking elements are formed as integral components of the closure element.

[0012] The advantage here is that the form-locking elements are separated from the contact surface by means of the edge, with each form-locking element protruding outwards in relation to the contact surface. In particular, any engagement, penetration, cutting or pressing of the form-locking elements into the bearing shell is improved by means of the edge. Thus, a form-locking connection between the closure element or the form-locking elements and a bearing shell is improved by means of the edges. The assembly force required for this can be reduced compared to toothings known from the prior art. Preferably, the form-locking elements can better withstand any subsequent treatment that may occur during manufacture of the closure element. In particular, the form-locking elements are at most partially or only slightly removed due to subsequent treatment, so that a sufficient portion of the form-locking element remains to penetrate the bearing shell.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the edge is at least partially or completely designed as a cutting edge. This improves the production of the positive connection with the bearing shell. In particular, this reduces the assembly force required to produce the positive connection between the bearing shell and the closure element. The edge is preferably formed by two flanks of the positive locking element that are aligned at an acute angle to one another. In particular, this means that the edge is implemented as a cutting edge. The cutting edge preferably provides security against rotation, so that relative rotation of the bearing shell to the closure element is prevented. A first flank of the positive locking element can be aligned perpendicular to the contact surface and a second flank of the positive locking element can be aligned obliquely to the contact surface. In particular, the first flank is designed as a steep flank and / or the second flank as a flat flank.To achieve the steep flank configuration, the angle between the contact surface and the first flank preferably ranges from 45° to 90°, in particular from 90° or more than 90°. To achieve the flat flank configuration, the angle between the contact surface and the second flank can range from 0° to 45°.

[0014] The edge can have a straight, angular, round, or oval contour. Thus, the edge can have a closed or circumferential contour. Alternatively, the edge can be formed as a single straight line. The edges of the plurality of form-locking elements can be aligned radially to a center point of the closure element. This can prevent or block relative rotation of a bearing shell resting on the contact surface with respect to the closure element. This contour of the edge preferably results from a plan view of the edge and / or the contact surface. Alternatively, polygonal or elliptical contours are possible, in particular with respect to a plan view of the edge. In particular, the form-locking element has a ramp-like, rectangular, or cylindrical shape. In particular, the ramp-like shape results from a cross-section of the form-locking element.The rectangular or cylindrical shape preferably results from a top view of the form-locking element. The form-locking element and / or an outer circumference of the form-locking element can be delimited by the edge. The shape preferably determines an outer circumference and / or an outer contour of the respective form-locking element.

[0015] According to a further development, each form-locking element has one, in particular a single, recess. The edge surrounds and / or delimits the recess of the respective form-locking element. Preferably, the edge delimits and / or defines the recess or an outer contour or an outer circumference of the recess. In particular, the recess is concave in terms of its cross-section. The recess can curve inwards with respect to the closure element and / or starting from the edge. The recess can be designed as a spherical segment and / or as a spherical surface section. Preferably, the recess has a hemispherical or ramp-like or cylindrical or rectangular contour.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the plurality of form-locking elements are formed at a distance from one another on the contact surface. Thus, the form-locking elements do not merge directly into one another in the sense of knurling. Rather, the form-locking elements are spaced from one another or spatially separated from one another, with a partial region of the contact surface being located between each form-locking element. In particular, the plurality of form-locking elements are arranged relative to one another on a common and / or imaginary circular line. Preferably, the plurality of form-locking elements each have a center point, with the centers of the plurality of form-locking elements lying on the common and / or imaginary circular line.

[0017] In particular, in the case of a plurality of non-rotationally symmetrical, preferably ramp-like, form-locking elements, at least two form-locking elements can be designed to be mirror-symmetrical to one another. Preferably, one of these two form-locking elements designed to be mirror-symmetrical to one another counteracts a relative rotation of the bearing shell to the closure element in relation to a direction of rotation. In particular, the first of these two form-locking elements counteracts a rotation in a first direction of rotation, and the second of these two form-locking elements counteracts a rotation in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation. This ensures, for example in the case of ramp-like form-locking elements, that a bearing shell engaging with the form-locking elements cannot slide along the ramp-like surface of the form-locking element.Instead, the ramp-like surfaces of at least one pair of form-locking elements are arranged mirror-symmetrically to each other, which prevents slipping.

[0018] According to a further development, a counter-recess arranged and / or formed corresponding to the form-locking element is realized on a side of the closure element facing away from the contact surface. In particular, the side facing away from the contact surface is an outer side of the closure element. Preferably, the contour and / or an inner circumference and / or an inner contour of the counter-recess is formed corresponding to the contour and / or the outer contour and / or the outer circumference of the form-locking element. In particular, the counter-recess has a groove-like or ramp-like or cylindrical or angular or round, preferably a rectangular or circular, contour. Alternatively, the counter-recess has a polygonal or elliptical or spherical contour.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, a maximum outer diameter of the form-locking element and a maximum inner diameter of the counter-recess corresponding to the form-locking element are different. Thus, the size of the outer diameter of the form-locking element and the size of the inner diameter of the associated counter-recess can differ from each other. In particular, the outer diameter of the form-locking element is larger than the inner diameter of the corresponding and / or associated counter-recess.

[0020] A ball joint with a closure element according to the invention is particularly advantageous. In particular, the ball joint has a joint housing. The closure element is fixed in the joint housing. Preferably, the joint housing and / or a housing opening is closed by means of the closure element. Furthermore, the ball joint has an inner joint part that is movably mounted in the joint housing. A bearing shell is arranged in the joint housing. In particular, the bearing shell is arranged between the joint housing and the inner joint part. The contact surface of the closure element rests on the bearing shell. The inner joint part can be designed as a ball stud or a ball sleeve. Accordingly, the ball joint can be designed as a ball-and-socket joint or as a ball-and-socket joint. A stud section or a joint stud of the inner joint part can protrude from the joint housing.Furthermore, the joint housing can be open on at least one side. The positive locking elements of the closure element penetrate into the bearing shell, thereby forming a positive connection between the positive locking elements of the closure element and the bearing shell.

[0021] The ball joint preferably has a joint axis and / or a central longitudinal axis about which the ball joint and / or the inner joint part is movable. The joint axis and / or the central longitudinal axis preferably extend in the axial direction of the joint housing. In particular, the ball joint and / or the inner joint part is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the joint axis and / or the central longitudinal axis. The joint axis and / or the central longitudinal axis can extend through a center point of the, in particular spherical or spherical, inner joint part, preferably a joint ball of the inner joint part.

[0022] In the context of the present application, the term "radial" can refer to one or any direction that runs perpendicular to the axial direction of the ball joint, the joint axis, and / or the central longitudinal axis. In particular, the inner joint part is rotatably and / or tiltably mounted in the joint housing and / or the joint shell.

[0023] Preferably, a movable and / or articulated mounting of the inner joint part in the joint housing and / or in the joint shell is understood to mean pivoting, tilting, and / or rotating mobility. "Tilting" or "tilting" of the inner joint part is understood to mean, in particular, a movement of the inner joint part relative to the joint housing, during which a change in an angle enclosed between a longitudinal axis of the inner joint part and a longitudinal axis of the housing occurs. "Rotating" or "twisting" of the inner joint part is understood to mean, in particular, a movement of the inner joint part in which the inner joint part is rotated relative to the joint housing about the longitudinal axis of the inner joint part.

[0024] Furthermore, a method for producing a closure element according to the invention is advantageous, wherein first a preform is provided with the contact surface and for forming the closure element. The preform can be ring-shaped or lid-shaped. Alternatively, the preform can be plate-shaped, in particular band-shaped. Subsequently, and for forming the respective form-locking element, a tool punch cooperates with a tool counterholder. In particular, the tool counterholder has an opening. The tool counterholder rests against a first side of the preform, and the tool punch is pressed into a second side of the preform facing away from the first side. Due to the pressing in of the tool punch, the form-locking element is formed together with the at least one projecting and / or protruding edge, in particular in the opening of the tool counterholder.In particular, the tool punch is designed as a punching tool. In the case of a plate-like or strip-like preform, separation can occur after the production of the form-locking element, whereby individual closure elements are produced from the preform by cutting or punching.

[0025] In particular, the edge is created as a result of cutting or initial cutting. The tool punch and the tool counterholder can thus be designed or referred to as a first cutting tool and as a second cutting tool. Preferably, the tool punch and the tool counterholder are positioned relative to one another, in particular as viewed perpendicular to the contact surface, in such a way that a suitable gap difference results for the production and / or cutting of the edge and between the tool punch and the tool counterholder. This gap difference can be in the range between 0.01 mm and 0.5 mm. In particular, the tool punch and the tool counterholder are arranged relative to one another in such a way that they do not overlap, preferably as viewed perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0026] According to a further development, after the preform has been provided and in order to form the respective form-locking element, a first tool punch is used to first form a depression in the contact surface, whereby a, in particular corresponding and / or associated, elevation is formed on the side of the preform facing away from the contact surface. Subsequently, the elevation is pressed back in the direction of the depression by means of a second tool punch, and a counter-depression arranged corresponding to the depression is formed in the side facing away from the contact surface. Due to the formation of the counter-depression, the depression is at least partially pressed out of the contact surface, whereby the form-locking element with the protruding and / or projecting edge is formed.

[0027] In this case, the first tool punch can be designed as a punching tool and / or the second tool punch as a cutting tool. Preferably, the second tool punch and the tool counterholder interacting with the second tool punch, preferably in the design as a second cutting tool, are positioned parallel to one another to the contact surface in such a way that a suitable gap difference results for the production and / or cutting of the edge and between the tool punch and the tool counterholder. The gap difference between the second tool punch and the, in particular second, tool counterholder can be greater than a gap difference between the first tool punch and a, in particular first, tool counterholder interacting with the first tool punch.

[0028] Alternatively, during the formation of the recess or for forming the recess using the first tool punch, a support tool can rest flatly on the side of the preform facing away from the contact surface. This ensures that the introduction of the recess using the first tool punch does not lead to any change in shape on the side facing away from the contact surface. In particular, the support tool serves as a counter-holder. In this case, the support tool can be flat. Subsequently, using a second tool punch, the counter-recess corresponding to the recess is formed in the side facing away from the contact surface, whereby the recess is at least partially pressed out of the contact surface and the form-fitting element with the protruding and / or projecting edge is formed.

[0029] The recess remains intact when pressed out, but is displaced relative to the contact surface. This causes the recess's edge to protrude from the contact surface.

[0030] In particular, the desired form-locking element is formed by pressing the recess out of the contact surface and forming the protruding edge. The contour of the recess can be retained when pressing the recess out. Preferably, the recess is merely displaced when pressing it out of the contact surface. In particular, the recess is displaced such that the recess protrudes relative to the contact surface, with the recess and / or the form-locking element being delimited by the peripheral edge.

[0031] According to a further development, a tool counterholder rests against the contact surface when forming the counter-recess. The recess is pressed into the opening of the tool counterholder by means of the second tool punch. In particular, during this pressing and / or displacement of the recess into the opening of the tool counterholder, the edge, in particular the sharp edge, of the form-locking element is simultaneously formed or cut. Preferably, the edge and / or an outer circumference of the respective form-locking element is predetermined by the inner circumference of the opening. In particular, the opening of the tool counterholder has an inner diameter that is at least as large as or larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the tool counterholder is 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch.

[0032] According to a first alternative embodiment, after the preform has been provided and to form the respective form-locking element, a counter-recess is first formed on the side of the preform facing away from the contact surface by means of a first tool punch. At the same time, a first tool counter-holder bears against the contact surface, whereby an elevation with a first edge is formed in the opening of the first tool counter-holder. In particular, the first edge determines and / or defines a maximum outer diameter of the elevation. Subsequently, a central portion of the elevation is pressed back toward the counter-recess by means of a second tool punch. A second tool counter-holder bears against the side of the counter-recess in the region of the counter-recess facing away from the contact surface.Due to the pressing back of the central portion of the elevation, a depression is formed in the contact surface of the elevation, corresponding to and / or associated with the counter-depression. Due to the formation of the depression, the form-fitting element is formed with the protruding and / or projecting first edge and a protruding and / or projecting second edge. In particular, the second edge determines and / or defines an inner diameter of the depression.

[0033] Preferably, the outer diameter of the form-locking element is larger than the inner diameter of the corresponding and / or associated counter-recess. In particular, the first tool punch has an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch.

[0034] Preferably, the opening of the first tool holder has an inner diameter that is at least as large as or larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the first tool holder is 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch.

[0035] Preferably, the opening of the second tool holder has an inner diameter that is at least as large as or larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the second tool holder is 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch. Preferably, the inner diameter of the opening of the second tool holder is smaller than the outer diameter of the first tool punch and / or smaller than the inner diameter of the counter-recess.

[0036] According to a second alternative embodiment, after the preform has been provided and to form the respective form-locking element, a depression is formed in the contact surface by means of a first tool punch. At the same time, a first tool counterholder bears against the side of the preform facing away from the contact surface, whereby a raised portion is formed in the opening of the first tool counterholder. Subsequently, the raised portion, together with an area surrounding the raised portion, in particular the side facing away from the contact surface, is pressed in the direction of the depression by means of a second tool punch. As a result, the depression is at least partially pressed out of the contact surface, with a second tool counterholder bearing against the contact surface in the region of the depression. Due to the pushing back and / or pushing out of the depression, the form-locking element with the projecting and / or protruding edge is formed.

[0037] Preferably, the opening of the first tool holder has an inner diameter that is at least as large as or larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the first tool holder is 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch.

[0038] Preferably, the opening of the second tool holder has an inner diameter that is at least as large as or larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the second tool holder is 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch.

[0039] Preferably, the inner diameter of the opening of the second tool holder is larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch and / or larger than the inner diameter of the recess. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the second tool holder is 0.5 mm to 2 mm larger than the inner diameter of the recess.

[0040] Preferably, the outer diameter of the second tool punch is larger than the inner diameter of the first tool counterholder and / or larger than the outer diameter of the elevation. In particular, the outer diameter of the second tool punch is 0.5 mm to 2 mm larger than the outer diameter of the elevation.

[0041] According to a further alternative embodiment, after the preform has been prepared and to form the respective form-locking element, a counter-recess is formed in the side of the preform facing away from the contact surface by means of a ramp-like tool punch. In particular, the ramp-like tool punch has an end face inclined to the contact surface. At the same time, a tool counterholder rests against the contact surface of the preform, thereby forming a ramp-like elevation, preferably in the opening of the tool counterholder. Thus, the ramp-like elevation simultaneously creates the form-locking element with the projecting and / or protruding edge.

[0042] Preferably, the opening of the tool counterholder has an inner diameter that is at least as large as or larger than the outer diameter of the ramp-like tool punch. In particular, the inner diameter of the opening of the tool counterholder is 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm larger than the outer diameter of the ramp-like tool punch.

[0043] Since the form-locking element according to this embodiment is non-rotationally symmetrical, at least two ramp-like form-locking elements can be designed mirror-symmetrically to each other. This prevents or blocks the bearing shell from slipping when the ball joint is assembled.

[0044] As an alternative to using a tool counterholder with a central opening, a multi-part tool counterholder can be used in this exemplary embodiment, wherein the multi-part tool counterholder has a first counterholder element for forming the edge and a further counterholder element. In particular, the first counterholder element and the further counterholder element are not designed to be circumferentially closed. Preferably, the first counterholder element and the further counterholder element each act on one side to form the form-locking element. The first counterholder element can be edged and / or the further counterholder element can be round. In this case, the further counterholder element can be supported at least partially on the ramp-like surface of the form-locking element. The formation of the ramp-like surface can be assisted by means of the further counterholder element.The additional counterholding element can be designed to correspond to the tool punch in a ramp-like, cylindrical, or cylindrical manner. The additional counterholding element can extend parallel to the contact surface with its longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the additional counterholding element can have an ellipsoidal, polygonal, or trapezoidal cross-section. In particular, the additional counterholding element is provided only optionally. Thus, the additional counterholding element can be omitted if necessary.

[0045] In particular, the closure element produced according to the method according to the invention is a previously described closure element according to the invention. The method is preferably further developed according to the embodiments explained in connection with the closure element according to the invention described here. Furthermore, the closure element and / or ball joint described here can be further developed according to the embodiments explained in connection with the methods.

[0046] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. Like reference numerals refer to like, similar, or functionally identical components or elements. They show: Fig. 1 a sectional side view of a first closure element according to the invention, Fig. 2 a plan view of the closure element according to the invention according to Fig. 1, Fig. 3 a schematic first process for producing the closure element according to the invention according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b shows a plan view and a cross-section of a form-locking element for a closure element according to the invention, Fig. 5 a sectional, perspective view of a ball joint according to the invention with a closure element according to the invention, Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b shows a schematic second process for producing a second closure element according to the invention, Fig. 7a, Fig. 7b shows a schematic third process for producing a third closure element according to the invention, Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b shows a schematic fourth process for producing a fourth closure element according to the invention, and Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b shows a schematic fifth process and a further process for producing a fifth closure element according to the invention and a further closure element according to the invention.

[0047] Fig. 1 shows a sectional side view of a first closure element 1 according to the invention. In this exemplary embodiment, the closure element 1 is designed as a closure lid. Here, the closure element 1 has a bulge 3 centered on a central longitudinal axis 2. The bulge 3 is thus realized in a center of the closure element 1. The bulge 3 stiffens the closure element 1. Furthermore, the installation space required for a ball joint with such a closure element 1 is improved or reduced. Alternatively, the closure element 1 can be designed as a closure ring.

[0048] In this embodiment, the closure element 1 has an annular disc-shaped section 4. The annular disc-shaped section 4 is formed as a one-piece component of the closure element 1. In this embodiment, the annular disc-shaped section 4 surrounds the bulge 3. Furthermore, the annular disc-shaped section 4 is concentric with the central longitudinal axis 2. In this embodiment, an outer diameter of the annular disc-shaped section 4 simultaneously determines an outer diameter of the closure element 1.

[0049] The annular disc-shaped section 4 has several form-locking elements 5. In this sectional view, two form-locking elements 5 are visible in a sectional representation. The form-locking elements 5 are formed as integral components of the closure element 1 or the annular disc-shaped section 4. In this exemplary embodiment, each form-locking element 5 has an edge 6 and a recess 7.

[0050] Here, the form-locking element 5 is delimited by means of the edge 6 which protrudes or projects in relation to a contact surface 8 of the closure element 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the contact surface 8 is realized as an annular disk-shaped surface of the annular disk-shaped section 4. The edge 6 runs around the recess 7 of the respective form-locking element 5. The edge 6 thus delimits and / or defines the recess 7 or an outer contour or an outer circumference of the recess 7. In this exemplary embodiment, the recess 7 is concave or curved inwards with respect to the closure element 1 or starting from the edge 6. Here, the recess 7 is in the form of a spherical segment or a spherical surface section. Here, the edge 6 is designed as a cutting edge running around the recess 7.

[0051] To create the cutting edge, the edge 6 is formed by two flanks 26, 27 of the respective form-locking element 5, aligned at an acute angle to each other. In this embodiment, a first flank 26 is aligned perpendicular to the contact surface 8, and a second flank 27 is aligned obliquely to the contact surface 8.

[0052] On a side 9 of the annular disk-shaped section 4 facing away from the contact surface 8 or the form-locking elements 5, a counter-recess 10 is arranged and / or formed correspondingly to the form-locking element 5. The contour or shape and an inner circumference of the counter-recess 10 are formed correspondingly to the contour or shape and the outer circumference of the form-locking element 5. In this embodiment, the counter-recess 10 has a rectangular contour or shape.

[0053] Fig. 2 shows a plan view of the closure element 1 according to the invention according to Fig. 1. The annular disc-shaped section 4 with the multiple form-locking elements 5 is clearly visible. In this exemplary embodiment, a total of eight form-locking elements 5 are formed, which protrude relative to the contact surface 8. For better clarity, not all form-locking elements 5 are provided with a reference symbol.

[0054] The plurality of positive locking elements 5 are formed spaced apart from one another on the contact surface 8. Thus, a partial region 11 of the contact surface 8 is located between each of the positive locking elements 5. In this exemplary embodiment, the plurality of positive locking elements 5 are arranged on a common, imaginary circular line relative to one another. Furthermore, in this example, the positive locking elements 5 are aligned radially to the central longitudinal axis 2.

[0055] In this embodiment, the form-locking element 5 and the edge 6 have a rectangular contour. This contour determines the shape of the outer circumference or the outer contour of the respective form-locking element 5.

[0056] Fig. 3 shows a schematic first process for producing the closure element 1 according to the invention according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. In a first step, a preform 12 of the closure element 1 to be produced is provided. In this exemplary embodiment, the preform 12 already has the annular disc-shaped section 4 with the contact surface 8. Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, the preform 12 also already has the bulge 3 and is designed like a lid. Alternatively, the preform 12 can be plate-like or strip-like, with the form-locking elements being produced first, as explained below, and only then is the corresponding closure element 1 separated from the plate-like or strip-like preform by cutting or punching.

[0057] Following the first step, in a second step and to form the respective form-locking element 5, the recess 7 is first formed in the contact surface 8 by means of a first tool punch 13. According to this example, the first tool punch 13 is a punching tool. During or to form the recess 7, according to this exemplary embodiment, a support tool 14 also rests flat on the side 9 of the annular disk-shaped section 4 facing away from the contact surface 8. This ensures that the introduction of the recess 7 by means of the first tool punch 13 leads to no, or at least no significant, change in shape on the side 9 facing away from the contact surface 8.

[0058] In the illustration of the second step shown here, the recess 7 has already been produced, and the first tool punch 13 and the support tool 14 have been lifted off the annular disk-shaped section 4. Furthermore, the first tool punch 13 and the support tool 14 are shown here only with respect to a single recess 7. However, the first tool punch 13 and the support tool 14 can also be designed such that all recesses 7 are produced simultaneously in the second step.

[0059] Following the second step, in a third step, a counter-recess 10 corresponding to the recess 7 is formed on the side 9 of the annular disk-shaped section 4 facing away from the contact surface 8 by means of a second tool punch 15. For this purpose, the second tool punch 15 is designed as a cutting tool according to this exemplary embodiment. During the formation of the counter-recess 10, the recess 7 is pressed out of the contact surface 8. However, the recess 7 remains as such. At the same time, the edge 6 protruding outwards with respect to the contact surface 8 is formed or cut during this process.

[0060] Thus, by pressing the recess 7 out of the contact surface 8 and forming the outwardly projecting edge 6, the desired form-locking element 5 is formed. In the third step, the recess 7 is displaced as it is pressed out of the contact surface 8 while maintaining its contour. The recess 7 can be displaced such that, after the third step, the recess 7 protrudes relative to the contact surface 8, or lies on a level with the contact surface 8, or recesses relative to the contact surface 8. In this case, the recess 7 or the form-locking element 5 is delimited by the circumferential edge 6.

[0061] According to this exemplary embodiment, during the formation of the counter-recess 10 in the third step, a tool counter-holder 16 rests against the annular disk-shaped surface 8. The tool counter-holder 16 has an opening 25. In the third step, the recess 7 is pressed into the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16 by means of the second tool punch 15. During this pressing or displacement of the recess 7 into the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16, the edge 6 of the form-locking element 5 is simultaneously formed or cut.

[0062] In the illustration of the third step shown here, the form-locking elements 5 have already been manufactured, and the second tool punch 15 and the tool counterholder 16 have been lifted off the annular disk-shaped section 4. Furthermore, the second tool punch 15 and the tool counterholder 16 are shown here only with regard to a single form-locking element 5. However, the second tool punch 15 and the tool counterholder 16 can also be designed such that all form-locking elements 5 are manufactured simultaneously in the third step.

[0063] In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the form-locking element 5 is larger than the inner diameter of the corresponding counter-recess 10. For this purpose, the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch 15.

[0064] Fig. 4a, Fig. 4b each show a plan view and a cross section of a form-locking element for a closure element according to the invention.

[0065] The Fig. 4a shows in the upper figure a top view of the counter-recess 10. In this embodiment, the counter-recess 10 has a rectangular contour. The lower figure of the Fig. 4a shows a cross section of the associated form-locking element 5. The form-locking element 5 and the edge 6 also have a rectangular outer contour or shape corresponding to the shape of the counter-recess 10 in this embodiment.

[0066] The Fig. Figure 4b shows an alternative embodiment, with the upper figure again showing a plan view of the counter-recess 10. According to this embodiment, however, the counter-recess 10 has a circular contour. The lower figure of the Fig. 4b shows a cross section of an associated form-locking element 5. The form-locking element 5 and the edge 6 accordingly also have a circular outer contour or shape corresponding to the shape of the counter-recess 10 in this embodiment.

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a sectional, perspective view of a ball joint 17 according to the invention with a closure element 19 according to the invention according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The ball joint 17 is designed as a ball and socket joint according to this embodiment. The closure element 19 is designed as a closure ring in this example and is only indicated schematically here. The closure element 19 has an annular disk-shaped section 4 with form-locking elements 5 corresponding to the closure element 1 according to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. To avoid repetition, reference is also made to the previous description.

[0068] The ball joint 17 has a joint housing 18. The closure element 19 is fixed in the joint housing 18. The ball joint 17 also has an inner joint part 20. A bearing shell 21 is arranged in the joint housing 18. The bearing shell 21 is arranged between the joint housing 18 and the inner joint part 20. Here, the inner joint part 20 is designed as a ball pivot with a joint ball 22 and a pivot portion 23. The joint ball 22 is articulated in the bearing shell 21. The pivot portion 23 of the inner joint part 20 protrudes through the closure element 19 and out of the joint housing 18.

[0069] The positive locking elements 5 of the closure element 19, not shown in detail here, penetrate the bearing shell 21, thereby forming a positive locking or a positive connection 24 between the positive locking elements 5 of the closure element 19 and the bearing shell 21. This simultaneously provides an anti-twist device for the bearing shell 21. The anti-twist device prevents unwanted twisting of the bearing shell relative to the joint housing 18. At the same time, the bearing shell 21 rests against the contact surface 8 of the closure element 19.

[0070] The Fig. 6a, Fig. 6b show a schematic second process for producing a second closure element according to the invention. The process largely corresponds to the process according to Fig. 3. Identical features bear the same reference numerals as before. To avoid repetition, reference is also made to the previous description.

[0071] In contrast to the procedure according to Fig. 3 is in accordance with Fig. 6a, the use of the support tool 14 is omitted. Thus, after the preform 12 has been prepared, a recess 7 is first formed in the contact surface 8 by means of a first tool punch 13. This forms a corresponding or associated elevation 28 on the side 9 of the preform 12 facing away from the contact surface 8.

[0072] According to Fig. 6b, the elevation 28 is then pressed back toward the recess 7 by means of a second tool punch 15. This creates a counter-recess corresponding to the recess 7 in the side 9 facing away from the contact surface 8. During the formation of the counter-recess 10, a tool counter-holder 16 rests against the contact surface 8. The recess 7 is pressed into the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16 by means of the second tool punch 15. During this pressing and displacement of the recess 7 into the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16, the edge 6 of the form-locking element 5 is simultaneously formed or cut. The edge 6 and an outer circumference of the respective form-locking element 5 are predetermined by the inner circumference of the opening 25. In this exemplary embodiment, the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch 15.

[0073] Figures 7a and 7b show a schematic third process for producing a third closure element according to the invention. Identical features bear the same reference numerals as before. To avoid repetition, reference is also made to the preceding description.

[0074] According to this embodiment and Fig. 7a, after the preform 12 has been provided to a first tool punch 13, a counter-recess 10 is first formed on the side 9 of the preform 12 facing away from the contact surface 8. During this step, a first tool counter-holder 16.1 simultaneously rests against the contact surface 8. This forms a protrusion 28 with a first edge 6.1 in the opening 25.1 of the first tool counter-holder 16.1. A maximum outer diameter of the protrusion 28 is determined by means of the first edge 6.1.

[0075] According to Fig. 7b, a central portion of the elevation 28 is subsequently pressed back toward the counter-recess 10 by means of a second tool punch 15. During this step, a second tool counterholder 16.2 rests in the area of the counter-recess 10 on the side 9 facing away from the contact surface 8. Due to the pressing back of the central portion of the elevation 28, a recess 7 is formed in the elevation 28, corresponding to and belonging to the counter-recess 10, in the contact surface 8. Due to the formation of the recess 7, the form-locking element 5 is simultaneously formed with the first edge 6.1 and a second edge 6.2. The second edge 6.2 defines an inner diameter of the recess 7.

[0076] In this exemplary embodiment, the first tool punch 13 has an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch 15. Here, the opening 25.1 of the first tool counterholder 16.1 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch 13. Furthermore, in this exemplary embodiment, the opening 25.2 of the second tool counterholder 16.2 has an inner diameter that is larger than or equal to the outer diameter of the second tool punch 15. The inner diameter of the opening 25.2 of the second tool counterholder 16.2 is smaller than the outer diameter of the first tool punch 13 and smaller than the inner diameter of the counter recess 10.

[0077] Fig. 8a, Fig. 8b show a schematic fourth process for producing a fourth closure element according to the invention. Identical features bear the same reference numerals as before. To avoid repetition, reference is also made to the preceding description.

[0078] According to this embodiment and Fig. 8a, after the preform 12 has been provided, a recess 7 is formed in the contact surface 8 by means of a first tool punch 13. During this step, a first tool counterholder 16.1 simultaneously bears against the side 9 of the preform 12 facing away from the contact surface 8. This forms a protrusion 28 in the opening 25.1 of the first tool counterholder 16.1.

[0079] According to Fig. 8b, the elevation 28 is then pressed, together with a region of the side 9 facing away from the contact surface 8 surrounding the elevation 28, in the direction of the recess 7 by means of a second tool punch 15. As a result, the recess 7 is at least partially pressed out of the contact surface 8, with a second tool counterholder 16.2 resting against the contact surface 8 in the region of the recess 7. Due to the pushing back and displacement of the recess 7, the form-locking element 5 with the edge 6 is formed or cut.

[0080] In this exemplary embodiment, the opening 25.1 of the first tool holder 16.1 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch 13. Furthermore, the opening 25.2 of the second tool holder 16.2 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the second tool punch 15. According to this example, the inner diameter of the opening 25.2 of the second tool holder 16.2 is larger than the outer diameter of the first tool punch 13 and larger than the inner diameter of the recess 7. The outer diameter of the second tool punch 15 is larger than the inner diameter of the first tool holder 16.1 and larger than the outer diameter of the elevation 28.

[0081] Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b show a schematic fifth process and a further process for producing a fifth closure element according to the invention and a further closure element according to the invention. Identical features bear the same reference numerals as before. To avoid repetition, reference is also made to the preceding description.

[0082] The Fig. 9a shows that, after the preform 12 has been prepared, a counter-recess 10 is formed in the side 9 of the preform 12 facing away from the contact surface 8 by means of a ramp-like tool punch 29. The ramp-like tool punch 29 can be easily manufactured or replaced, for example, by oblique grinding. At the same time, a tool counter-holder 16 rests against the contact surface 8, forming a ramp-like elevation 30 in the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16. Thus, the ramp-like elevation 30 simultaneously forms the form-locking element 5 with the edge 6. In this example, the edge 6 is linear or rectilinear. According to this exemplary embodiment, the opening 25 of the tool counter-holder 16 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the ramp-like tool punch 29.

[0083] Since the form-locking element 5 according to this embodiment has only a one-sided and non-circumferential edge 6, the form-locking element 5 in this example and in combination with a bearing shell 21 (not shown in detail here) is only effective in one direction of rotation. Therefore, in this embodiment, two form-locking elements 5 arranged mirror-symmetrically to one another are formed (not shown in detail here). This prevents the bearing shell 21 from sliding or twisting in the assembled state of the ball joint 17 in the sense of the embodiment according to Fig. 5 prevented or blocked.

[0084] According to Fig. 9b, as an alternative to using a tool counterholder 16 with a central opening 25, a multi-part tool counterholder 31 can be used. The multi-part tool counterholder 31 has a first counterholder element 32 for forming the edge 6 and a further counterholder element 33. In this case, the edge 6 is formed by means of the counterholder element 32. The further counterholder element 33 can at least partially bear against the ramp-like surface of the form-locking element 5. The formation of the ramp-like surface is supported by means of the further counterholder element 33. In this embodiment, the further counterholder element 33 is cylindrical, wherein the further counterholder element 33 is aligned with respect to its longitudinal axis parallel to the contact surface 8. The embodiment according to Fig. 9b is particularly advantageous because the form-locking element 5 with the edge 6 can be manufactured in a single work step. Reference symbol 1 locking element 2 Central longitudinal axis 3 Bulge 4 annular disc-shaped section 5 Form-locking element 6 edge 7 Deepening 8 contact surface 9 Page 10 Counter-deepening 11 sub-area 12 Preform 13 first tool stamp 14 Support tool 15 second tool stamp 16 tool holders 17 Ball joint 18 joint housing 19 Closure element 20 inner joint part 21 bearing shell 22 joint ball 23 Tenon section 24 Form-fitting connection 25 Opening 26 first cross 27 second flank 28 Survey 29 ramp-like tool stamp 30 ramp-like elevation 31 tool holder 32 first counter-holding element 33 second counter-holding element QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] DE 10 2006 061 974 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Closure element for a ball joint (17) and with a contact surface (8), wherein the contact surface (8) has several form-locking elements (5), characterized by that each form-fitting element (5) has at least one projecting and / or protruding edge (6) in relation to the contact surface (8). [2] Closure element according to claim 1, characterized by that the edge (6) is at least partially or completely designed as a cutting edge, in particular the edge (6) is formed by means of two flanks (26, 27) of the form-locking element (5) which are aligned at an acute angle to one another, preferably a first flank (26) of the form-locking element (5) is aligned perpendicular to the contact surface (8) and a second flank (27) of the form-locking element (5) is aligned obliquely to the contact surface (8). [3] Closure element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the edge (6) has a straight or angular or round or oval contour, in particular the form-locking element (5) has a ramp-like or rectangular or cylindrical shape, preferably the form-locking element (5) is limited by means of the edge (6). [4] Closure element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that each form-locking element (5) has a recess (7), wherein the edge (6) surrounds and / or delimits the recess (7) of the form-locking element (5), in particular the recess (7) is concave, preferably the recess (7) has a hemispherical or ramp-like or cylindrical or rectangular contour. [5] Closure element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the plurality of form-locking elements (5) are formed spaced apart from one another on the contact surface (8), in particular the plurality of form-locking elements (5) are arranged on a common circular line, preferably the plurality of form-locking elements (5) each have a center point, wherein the centers of the plurality of form-locking elements (5) lie on the common circular line. [6] Closure element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that in the case of a plurality of non-rotationally symmetrical, in particular ramp-like, form-locking elements (5), at least two form-locking elements (5) are mirror-symmetrical to one another. [7] Closure element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat on a side (9) of the closure element (1) facing away from the contact surface (8), a counter-recess (10) is arranged and / or formed corresponding to the form-locking element (5), in particular the counter-recess (10) has a groove-like or ramp-like or cylindrical or rounded or spherical or angular contour. [8] Closure element according to claim 7, characterized by that a maximum outer diameter of the form-locking element (5) and a maximum inner diameter of the counter-recess (10) corresponding to the form-locking element (5) are different, in particular the outer diameter of the form-locking element (5) is larger than the inner diameter of the counter-recess (10). [9] Ball joint with a closure element (1, 19) according to one of the preceding claims, with a joint housing (18), wherein the closure element (1, 19) is fixed in the joint housing (18), and with an inner joint part (20) which is movably mounted in a bearing shell (21), wherein the bearing shell (21) is arranged in the joint housing (18), the contact surface (8) bears against the bearing shell (21), and the form-locking elements (5) of the closure element (1, 19) penetrate into the bearing shell (21), whereby a form-locking connection is formed between the form-locking elements (5) of the closure element (1, 19) and the bearing shell (21). [10] Method for producing a closure element (1, 19) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a preform (12) with the contact surface (8) and for forming the closure element (1, 19) is provided, and subsequently, for forming the respective form-locking element (5), a tool punch (13, 15, 29) cooperates with a tool counter-holder (16), wherein the tool counter-holder (16) bears against a first side of the preform (12), in particular, the tool counter-holder (16) has an opening (25), and the tool punch (13, 15, 29) is pressed into a second side of the preform (12) facing away from the first side, wherein due to the pressing in of the tool punch (13, 15, 29), the form-locking element (5), in particular in the opening (25) of the tool counter-holder (16), and at the same time the at least one protruding and / or projecting edge (6) is formed. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized bythat, after the preform (12) has been provided and in order to form the respective form-locking element (5), a first tool punch (13) is used to first form a recess (7) in the contact surface (8), as a result of which an elevation (28) is formed on the side (9) of the preform (12) facing away from the contact surface (8), and then, by means of a second tool punch (15), the elevation (28) is pressed back in the direction of the recess (7) and a counter-recess (10) arranged corresponding to the recess (7) is formed in the side (9) facing away from the contact surface (8), wherein, due to the formation of the counter-recess (10), the recess (7) is at least partially pressed out of the contact surface (8), as a result of which the form-locking element (5) with the projecting and / or protruding edge (6) is formed. [12] Method according to claim 11, characterized bythat when forming the counter-recess (10) the tool counter-holder (16) rests against the contact surface (8), wherein the recess (7) is pressed into the opening (25) of the tool counter-holder (16) by means of the second tool punch (15), in particular during this pressing in the edge (6) of the form-locking element (5) is formed at the same time, preferably the edge (6) and / or an outer circumference of the respective form-locking element (5) is predetermined by means of the inner circumference of the opening (25). [13] Method according to claim 10, characterized bythat after the preform (12) has been provided and in order to form the respective form-locking element (5), a counter-recess (7) is formed on the side (9) of the preform (12) facing away from the contact surface (8) by means of a first tool punch (13), wherein at the same time a first tool counter-holder (16.1) bears against the contact surface (8), whereby an elevation (28) with a first edge (6.1) is formed in the opening (25.1) of the first tool counter-holder (16.1), and then a central partial area of the elevation (28) is pressed back in the direction of the counter-recess (10) by means of a second tool punch (15), wherein a second tool counter-holder (16.2) in the region of the counter-recess (10) rests on the side (9) facing away from the contact surface (8), and a recess (7) arranged corresponding to the counter-recess (10) is formed in the elevation (28), wherein due to the formation of the recess (7) the form-fitting element (5) is formed with the projecting and / or protruding first edge (6.1) and a projecting and / or protruding second edge (6.2). [14] Method according to claim 10, characterized bythat after the preform (12) has been provided and in order to form the respective form-locking element (5), a depression (7) is formed in the contact surface (8) by means of a first tool punch (13), wherein at the same time a first tool counter-holder (16.1) bears against the side (9) of the preform (12) facing away from the contact surface (8), as a result of which an elevation (28) is formed in the opening (25.1) of the first tool counter-holder (16.1), and then by means of a second tool punch (15) the elevation (28) is pressed together with an area surrounding the elevation (28) in the direction of the depression (7) and as a result the depression (7) is at least partially pressed out of the contact surface (8), wherein a second tool counter-holder (16.1)2) rests against the contact surface (8) in the region of the recess (7), wherein the form-fitting element (5) with the projecting and / or protruding edge (6) is formed due to the displacement and / or pressing out of the recess (7). [15] Method according to claim 10, characterized by that after the preform (12) has been provided and in order to form the respective form-locking element (5), a counter-recess (10) is formed in the side (9) of the preform (12) facing away from the contact surface (8) by means of a ramp-like tool punch (29), wherein at the same time a tool counter-holder (16) bears against the contact surface (8) of the preform (12), whereby a ramp-like elevation (30) is formed, in particular in the opening (25) of the tool counter-holder (16), wherein the form-locking element (5) with the projecting and / or protruding edge (6) is simultaneously realized with the ramp-like elevation (30).

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