Control unit for an electric door lock of a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a control unit (22) for an electric door lock (12) of a motor vehicle (2), with a circuit board (28) arranged in a reference plane (40), to which an energy storage device (32) with two terminals (36) and a body (34) is attached and electrically contacted.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a control unit for an electric door lock of a motor vehicle. The control unit comprises a printed circuit board.

[0002] Motor vehicles, such as passenger cars, typically have several doors that cover an opening in the vehicle's body. The door is usually mounted to the vehicle's body by means of a hinge, allowing the opening to be opened by adjusting the door. If the door is a side door, this enables entry into the vehicle's interior and / or loading items into the interior. For increased convenience, the door is usually driven by an electric motor, part of an electric door opener. When the electric motor is operating, the door moves along a path defined by the hinge that mounts it to the body.

[0003] To activate the electric door drive, an input device in the form of a door handle is usually present, mounted on the outside of the door. To reduce costs and size, there is usually no mechanical component whose actuation is detected. Instead, this is achieved using an inductive sensor. When the door handle is operated, a control element, such as an electrically conductive surface, is moved a small distance, usually less than 1 mm, relative to an electrical coil of the inductive sensor. The resulting change in the inductance of the electrical coil is detected, and the electric door drive is then activated.

[0004] To prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle, a door lock is typically provided, comprising a handle mounted on the door, also known as a bolt. When access is not desired, the handle engages a corresponding counterpart secured to the vehicle body. To open the door, the handle is disengaged from the counterpart. For ease of use, this is usually achieved by operating the door handle.

[0005] Since the door handle's operation is detected solely electronically, an electric door lock design is advantageous, where the handle is driven by an actuator, usually an electric motor. A mechanical connection between the door handle and the lock is therefore generally unnecessary, reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, this allows the door handle to be designed as essentially rigid, with the exception of the slight movement of the inductive sensor, increasing robustness and further reducing manufacturing costs.

[0006] The electric door lock is typically powered by the vehicle's electrical system, which is supplied by a vehicle battery providing either 12V or 48V. However, if the vehicle battery is discharged, the electric door lock will no longer function, and the vehicle cannot be unlocked. This makes transporting the vehicle to a repair shop or even recharging the battery difficult. Similarly, in the event of a vehicle accident and damage to the electrical system or at least the connection to the door lock, it will no longer be possible to open the door and, for example, reach an injured person inside the vehicle.

[0007] To remedy this, a mechanical coupling is usually present, allowing for emergency release. It is necessary to protect this emergency release mechanism to prevent unauthorized access during normal operation. Furthermore, the door lock must be adapted to accommodate this emergency release. This, in turn, leads to increased costs and a greater susceptibility to malfunctions.

[0008] The invention is based on the objective of providing a particularly suitable control unit for an electric door lock of a motor vehicle, advantageously reducing manufacturing costs and / or installation space.

[0009] According to the invention, this problem is solved by the features of claim 1. Advantageous further developments and embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] The control unit is suitable for, and in particular designed and configured for, an electric door lock of a motor vehicle. In other words, when installed, the control unit is preferably an integral part of the electric door lock. The electric door lock, in turn, is expediently an integral part of the motor vehicle when installed and is suitable, in particular designed and configured for this purpose.

[0011] The motor vehicle is primarily designed for land use and preferably has multiple tracks. It is advantageously possible to position the motor vehicle essentially freely, particularly on a roadway. For this purpose, the motor vehicle is suitably equipped with appropriate wheels. In summary, it is preferably possible to position the motor vehicle on land essentially independently of other conditions. In other words, the motor vehicle is preferably not guided by rails. The motor vehicle is preferably a passenger car or a commercial vehicle, such as a truck or bus.

[0012] The electric door lock, which is also referred to simply as a door lock, preferably comprises an actuator that drives a latch, also known as a bolt. When required, the actuator engages the latch with a counterpart, thus locking the door. The counterpart is, for example, a recess or the like, which, when installed, is expediently fixed to the vehicle body if the latch is mounted on a door. Preferably, the actuator is an electric motor. The electric motor is, for example, a commutator motor or, more preferably, a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. Alternatively, the actuator is a linear actuator.

[0013] In summary, the control unit primarily serves to provide and / or execute functions, in particular the control and / or regulation of the individual components of the control unit, for example, the actuator. Alternatively or in combination with this, the control unit can be used to read any sensors of the electric door lock. The control unit is suitable for this purpose, and in particular designed and configured for this.

[0014] The control unit comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) arranged in a reference plane. This reference plane is advantageously defined by the PCB, which is suitably designed to be planar. The reference plane is, in particular, simply a (geometric) plane. The PCB is preferably rigid and, for example, has a glass-fiber-reinforced epoxy resin on which several conductor tracks are arranged externally and / or embedded. The conductor tracks are advantageously made of copper. Several electrical and / or electronic components are advantageously arranged on the PCB and are suitably interconnected, for example, by means of one or more of the conductor tracks on the PCB.

[0015] The control unit suitably has one or more interfaces, which are, for example, located on the circuit board. In the installed state, the actuator, for example, is electrically connected to the interface(s). Alternatively or in combination with this, an interface for electrical contact with the vehicle's electrical system is provided, by means of which a DC voltage of, for example, 12 V, 24 V, or 48 V is expediently supplied. In particular, the control unit includes a converter, which is, for example, located on the circuit board, and by means of which the voltage can be reduced or at least changed. Alternatively or in combination with this, a communication interface is provided, by means of which the control unit is connected to other components of the vehicle, in particular an on-board computer, via signals in the installed state.It is advantageous for the communication interface to be designed according to a specific bus standard.

[0016] The control unit further comprises an energy storage device with two terminals and a housing. For example, the energy storage device is designed like a battery and is expediently a secondary battery. However, the energy storage device is particularly preferably a capacitor, preferably an electrolytic capacitor and expediently a so-called supercapacitor. An electrical voltage, preferably a DC voltage, is applied to the two terminals when the energy storage device is electrically charged. This voltage is, for example, between 0.5 V and 5 V. The housing preferably comprises electrical storage elements that can be electrically charged and by means of which the electrical energy is stored. For example, the storage elements are chemically or physically designed. For example, the housing comprises one or more galvanic cells and / or electrodes.Ideally, the body incorporates an energy storage casing that surrounds the individual storage elements. This protects them and prevents unwanted reactions with the environment.

[0017] The body is advantageously cylindrical. In this case, the cross-section perpendicular to the cylinder axis is, for example, rectangular or square, so that the body is a cube. However, a circular cross-section is more advantageous. For example, the height of the cylinder is less than the diameter of the circle. Particularly preferred is the height of the cylinder, i.e., its extent along the cylinder axis, being greater than the diameter.

[0018] The energy storage device is connected to the printed circuit board (PCB) and electrically contacted with it. For example, the energy storage device is preferably rigidly attached directly to the PCB. Alternatively, the energy storage device, or at least its body, is spaced apart from the PCB. Furthermore, the electrical voltage supplied at the terminals is applied to the PCB, in particular to two conductor tracks of the PCB. For example, the terminals are electrically contacted with the conductor tracks directly or indirectly via other components. Preferably, the control unit comprises a circuit that is formed, for example, at least partially by means of the PCB, in particular its conductor tracks and the electrical and / or electronic components connected to the PCB.The circuit is advantageously designed such that, if the control unit is not supplied with power from any other source (for example, if a cable or similar component is disconnected from the associated interface, or if the cable is no longer carrying electrical voltage, for example, due to an accident or the discharge of the vehicle's main battery), the energy storage device can and advantageously does supply power to the control unit. In particular, the capacity of the energy storage device is dimensioned such that the associated actuator can be operated at least once. The energy storage device is also suitably wired in such a way that, if the control unit is supplied with power from any other source (for example, if electrical energy is supplied via the relevant cable), the energy storage device is charged or can be charged. This makes it possible, in particular, to compensate for any self-discharge of the energy storage device.

[0019] Therefore, the control unit incorporates an additional energy storage device, which conveniently serves as an emergency power supply. Since the electrical energy provided by the storage device is preferably sufficient for at least one operation of the door lock, i.e., the actuator, the door can be opened even if the control unit is not otherwise powered, particularly via the vehicle's electrical system. Consequently, it is unnecessary to include a mechanical coupling as an emergency release, and the associated design measures are not required. This reduces installation space and manufacturing costs.

[0020] Preferably, the control unit comprises a housing in which the circuit board is arranged. This protects the circuit board from damage and environmental influences. Advantageously, the housing is designed to be sealed, thus preventing the ingress of foreign particles and / or moisture.

[0021] The connections are made of an electrically conductive material, preferably a metal such as aluminum or copper. For example, one or both connections are formed by a conductor, such as a cable, wire, or the like. In this case, the conductor is an integral part of the energy storage device. Alternatively, a conductor is electrically attached to one of the connections, for example, by soldering or welding. A cable lug is attached to the end of the conductor, for example, by crimping. The cable lug is designed as a ring or fork terminal. The cable lug is then electrically connected to the circuit board and expediently screwed to it.Alternatively, the wires are soldered to the circuit board or electrically contacted with the circuit board by means of other contact methods, such as screw terminals or insulation displacement connectors.

[0022] Alternatively, for example, a plug is attached to the cable, which is electrically contacted at least at one of the terminals. This plug is inserted into a corresponding mating plug that is attached to the circuit board. Alternatively, the mating plug is electrically connected to the circuit board via another cable. In particular, the energy storage device, or at least its body, is spaced away from the circuit board but connected to it electrically by means of the cable, the plug, and the mating plug.

[0023] For example, the energy storage device is also located within the housing. Alternatively, the housing may have an opening within which the energy storage device, preferably the body, is located. Advantageously, the housing and the body are sealed to prevent the ingress of foreign particles. This allows the energy storage device to be replaced without having to open the housing.

[0024] Alternatively, the cable may protrude through the housing, or the mating connector may be integrated into the housing. The energy storage device itself is then located outside the housing. Ideally, the mating connector and / or the plug should be suitable for wet environments, allowing them to be used in damp conditions. This eliminates the need for separate sealing, simplifying installation. Furthermore, this design facilitates the replacement of the energy storage device if, for example, it becomes defective or is of advanced age.

[0025] For example, the energy storage device is houseless. Preferably, the energy storage device is arranged in a further housing, which is, for example, attached to the outside of the housing or, for example, spaced apart from it. This allows for a comparatively flexible arrangement, while also protecting the energy storage device from damage and / or foreign particles / moisture. For example, the energy storage device may be associated with charging, diagnostic, and / or protection circuitry and / or other electronics, which are expediently arranged in the further housing. Thus, an energy storage module is provided, which is preferably only electrically contacted and connected to the circuit board via the connector. Preferably, the housing within which the circuit board is arranged is present.This allows the housing and the inner housing to be mounted essentially independently of each other, simplifying manufacturing and enabling installation even in relatively narrow or angled doors. It also makes it possible, for example, to use different energy storage modules for different vehicles or vehicle types, specifically tailored to the actuator being powered. The housing with the circuit board inside can always be used unchanged. This increases modularity and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0026] In one further development, the energy storage device is, for example, located within the housing and electrically connected directly to the circuit board. For instance, the connections are soldered to the circuit board, perhaps using a reflow soldering process. Alternatively, or in combination with this, the connections are glued to the circuit board, for which an electrically conductive adhesive is typically used. In another further development, at least one of the connections, or perhaps both, is welded to the circuit board. This is achieved using, for example, ultrasonic, laser, or resistance welding processes. Welding improves temperature resistance and increases robustness. Consequently, the unintentional detachment of the energy storage device from the circuit board is prevented.As a result, it is ensured that, even in the event of an accident or similar incident, the energy storage device remains electrically connected to the circuit board, allowing, for example, the actuator to be powered once. Thus, the control unit provides a comparatively high level of safety.

[0027] For example, the energy storage device's connections are formed using pads or tabs, which are specifically designed and configured for SMD mounting. In other words, the energy storage device is an SMD component. The energy storage device is conveniently attached to the circuit board using SMD technology, for example, via a reflow process. This enables automated manufacturing. In summary, the connections are mounted to the circuit board using surface mount technology (SMD), simplifying circuit board production. This also allows for mechanized manufacturing, and the placement of the energy storage device on the circuit board is conveniently performed in a single step along with the connection of other components to the circuit board. This reduces manufacturing time.

[0028] Particularly preferably, the energy storage device is designed as a wired component. Thus, the connections are formed by means of a wire, which is preferably inserted into the body. For example, the connections are arranged on different sides of the body, which is preferably cylindrical and has a round cross-section. Alternatively, they are arranged on a common (end) face.

[0029] For example, the wires are electrically connected to the circuit board via a through-hole mounting, and the circuit board has corresponding holes for this purpose. However, it is particularly preferred in this case to have several pads attached to the circuit board, to which the wire(s) are electrically connected and attached using SMD technology. This makes it possible, in particular, to design the circuit board solely for SMD mounting, which reduces manufacturing costs.

[0030] For example, both connections are directly electrically connected to the circuit board. Alternatively, only one of the two connections is electrically connected to the circuit board. The other connection is electrically contacted, for example, by a cable, which is electrically connected to the circuit board and preferably to its end. Alternatively, another circuit board is present to which the remaining connection is electrically contacted, for example, by means of through-hole or surface mounting. Thus, a sandwich structure consisting of the two circuit boards and the energy storage device is realized, resulting in a comparatively compact control unit.The two circuit boards are electrically contacted with each other, for example by means of a stamped grid or electrical conductors, so that the electrical voltage provided by the energy storage device is applied to the circuit board.

[0031] Alternatively, for example, the connection not directly electrically contacted with the circuit board is routed to another electrically conductive component, which is, for example, connected to the inside of the housing. In this case, the other component is electrically contacted with the circuit board, for example, directly or indirectly. Preferably, the other component is at the electrical potential of ground.

[0032] For example, the body is spaced apart from the printed circuit board. Preferably, however, it rests directly on the circuit board, thus reducing stress on the connections. Advantageously, the connections are arranged on a common end face of the body. If, however, the connections are arranged on opposite sides of the body, the body also rests on the circuit board, and the connections are advantageously bent towards the circuit board. This provides a comparatively stable connection for the energy storage device. Alternatively, a recess is provided, for example, within which the body is inserted, with the connections running in a straight line, preferably parallel to the reference plane, and particularly resting on a surface of the circuit board. This further increases compactness and simplifies assembly.

[0033] For example, the wires are at least in contact with the surface of the printed circuit board. Alternatively, the printed circuit board has a slot that extends through the entire board and runs in the reference plane. The slot is suitably essentially straight. One of the two wires is placed in the slot and is preferably fixed there. The wire is also preferably arranged parallel to the reference plane. Fixing is preferably achieved by soldering or welding. This also results in electrical contact between the wire and the slot, which is, for example, metallized at the edges or to whose edge a conductor of the printed circuit board extends. For example, there may be only a single slot in which the associated wire is placed.Preferably, two corresponding slots are provided, with each slot corresponding to one of the connections. In particular, the slots run parallel to each other and are offset perpendicular to their orientation, especially if the two connections are located on the common end face of the body. If the connections are located on opposite end faces of the body, the slots run along a common straight line that lies in the reference plane. In this configuration, the slots extend into any recess, thus reducing the space required. The slots facilitate positioning of the energy storage device. Furthermore, robustness is increased because mechanical shearing of the connections from the surface of the printed circuit board is prevented.

[0034] Alternatively or in combination with this, a clamping contact is attached to the printed circuit board. The clamping contact is, for example, a surface-mount component or a through-hole component and is attached to the circuit board, for example, by means of through-hole mounting. One of the wires is clamped by the clamping contact, thus securing it. In this way, both mechanical fastening and electrical contact are achieved. For example, there may be only a single such clamping contact, or preferably two, with each wire having its own clamping contact. For example, the two clamping contacts may be designed differently or, preferably, be identical in construction, so that identical parts can be used. This also simplifies assembly.

[0035] For example, the clamping contact(s) are designed like screw terminals. This provides a detachable connection, thus simplifying disassembly. Alternatively, or in combination with this, at least one, or for example both, of the clamping contacts are designed like spring-clamp terminals, also known as spring or cage clamp terminals. This eliminates the need for additional tools during assembly, further simplifying the process. In a further development, one or both clamping contacts are designed like insulation displacement contacts (IDCs). This provides a relatively secure hold for the wire, and any existing insulation is also effectively cut. This allows the wires to be insulated, and when inserted into the IDC, the insulation is locally opened, thus establishing electrical contact. Separate insulation removal is not required.This makes assembly easier, while the continued insulation prevents short circuits or similar problems.

[0036] For example, the clamping contact is open perpendicular to the reference plane, so that for assembly, the respective wire is inserted into the clamping contact perpendicular to the reference plane. This simplifies assembly. Quality control is also facilitated, as the correct positioning of the wire can be visually verified. Alternatively, the opening is parallel to the reference plane, and the wire is moved parallel to the reference plane for contact. Such a design reduces the required installation height of the control unit.

[0037] Alternatively, a mating connector with two sockets is attached to the printed circuit board (PCB). The mating connector is mounted to the PCB, for example, by through-hole technology (THT) or surface mount technology (SMD), and is thus directly attached to and electrically connected to the PCB. Due to the two sockets, the mating connector is designed as a female connector. The wires are inserted into the sockets, thus establishing electrical contact with the PCB. Preferably, a mechanical connection is also provided. In a further development, the two sockets are arranged within a cup-shaped opening of the mating connector, particularly at its base. In the assembled state, the body is at least partially surrounded by the hollow cylindrical rim of the mating connector, for example, forming a clearance fit or interference fit.For example, the body is clamped into the mating connector. In this configuration, one end face of the body is positioned towards the base of the housing, to which the wires are conveniently connected. This design allows for the energy storage device to be mounted downstream. It also enables relatively simple replacement. Furthermore, different energy storage devices can be used in this way, each conveniently adapted to the specific actuator being used. This increases flexibility, and the control unit – with the exception of the energy storage device – can be used for different vehicle types, with the adaptation to the respective vehicle type achieved through the selection of the energy storage device.

[0038] Alternatively, one of the connections is screwed to the circuit board. For example, both connections are screwed to the circuit board, or the other connection is electrically contacted to the circuit board via a clamping contact or another component. In this case, the other connection is in contact at its end with any electrically conductive component, which is, for example, connected to the inside of the housing. Alternatively, both connections are screwed to the circuit board. Here, each connection is designed, for example, like a cable lug and has at least one ring or fork through which a screw is inserted. Preferably, however, the connection itself has a thread, especially an external thread. This reduces the number of components required and simplifies assembly.

[0039] For example, the connector is designed like a bolt and has an external thread. The bolt / external thread is guided through an opening in the circuit board, and a nut or similar component is placed on the connector on the side of the circuit board opposite the body and screwed into place. This creates a frictional connection between the nut and the body, ensuring a relatively stable connection and electrical contact, while still allowing for relatively easy replacement. The opening on the side opposite the body is conveniently surrounded by a conductor track, such as a ring-shaped one, against which the nut also rests.This conductor track is suitably connected to the other side of the printed circuit board by means of one, preferably several, vias. This makes it possible, in particular, to populate the printed circuit board on only one side, with the nut conveniently located on the unpopulated side. A large number of vias are advantageously provided to improve electrical contact and robustness.

[0040] Alternatively, a metal plate with a mating thread is attached to the circuit board, to which the connector is screwed. For example, the mating thread is an internal thread, located, for instance, above the opening of the circuit board. In this case, the bolt-like connector is conveniently screwed into the internal thread, with it at least partially inserted into the opening of the circuit board. This results in a comparatively low profile. Alternatively, the internal thread can be spaced away from the circuit board, so that when the connector is screwed in, there is no mechanical contact between the connector and the circuit board, thus preventing damage. Another alternative is that the mating thread is designed, for example, like a bolt with an external thread, while the connector has an internal thread and is, for instance, designed like a nut.This design allows for a comparatively stable connection while reducing the number of components required. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for an opening in the circuit board. Additionally, this method enables relatively simple positioning of the connection relative to the mating thread, simplifying manufacturing. The metal sheet is contacted with the circuit board, for example, via press-fit connections and mechanically bonded to it. Alternatively, the metal sheet can be soldered to the circuit board. Preferably, the metal sheet is a surface-mount component or attached to the circuit board via through-hole mounting. This improves robustness.

[0041] Alternatively or in combination with this, the control unit includes, for example, a die-cut grid that is connected to the printed circuit board. Advantageously, the die-cut grid is electrically contacted with the printed circuit board. Preferably, the die-cut grid includes a contact pad or the like that is soldered to the printed circuit board. Alternatively, a press-fit connector is provided, so that the die-cut grid can be mounted to the printed circuit board simply by inserting the press-fit connector into one or more corresponding holes. In particular, at least one of the energy storage device's terminals is electrically connected to the die-cut grid and suitably mechanically bonded. Preferably, for example, the terminal is welded or soldered to the die-cut grid. Alternatively, the die-cut grid is preferably equipped with an insulation displacement connector (IDC) for electrical contact with the terminal. Preferably, the terminal is designed in the form of a wire.The punched grid makes it possible to distribute the electrical energy provided by the energy storage device to different areas of the printed circuit board (PCB). This is achieved without using the PCB's conductor tracks, but rather the appropriately shaped punched grid. Thus, it is possible to distribute comparatively high voltages and / or currents without requiring modifications to the entire PCB. Preferably, two punched grids are provided, with one grid assigned to each terminal.

[0042] In a further development, the punched grids are comb-like in design, and several energy storage devices are advantageously present. Here, a connection for one of the energy storage devices is placed between the teeth of each comb-like punched grid, thus connecting them electrically in parallel. This provides a comparatively high electrical capacity and simplifies assembly. It is also possible, for example, to use a different number of energy storage devices for different vehicle types or at least different actuators.

[0043] In one variant, for example, the terminals are designed as flat surfaces and arranged on opposite sides of the body. In particular, these sides form the end faces of the body, which preferably has a cylindrical shape with a rectangular or, preferably, circular cross-section. Specifically, the terminals cover essentially the entire end face of the body. For example, the terminals are designed to be flat. Alternatively, a slight protrusion may be present to facilitate electrical contact. For example, additional contacts are welded or soldered to the terminals, by means of which electrical contact with the printed circuit board (PCB) is established. In particular, the contacts are attached to the PCB by means of through-hole or surface mounting and electrically connected to it.For example, the contacts are first attached to the energy storage device, and then these are attached to the circuit board. Alternatively, the contacts are attached to the circuit board, and then the energy storage device is connected to the contacts.

[0044] In one alternative configuration, for example, an elastically deformable clamp is arranged on the circuit board, to which one of the two terminals is frictionally connected. Preferably, two such clamps are provided, between which the energy storage device is arranged and frictionally connected. In particular, the clamps are at least slightly elastically deformed by means of the energy storage device. The clamps are expediently directly electrically contacted with the circuit board. For example, the clamps are designed in the form of leaf springs. Alternatively, for example, only one clamp is deformable. In another alternative, for example, an additional retaining structure is provided, which is expediently made of a plastic, and by means of which the body is held relatively stably on the circuit board.In another alternative, for example, one of the contacts is held in place by the retaining structure, while the other is designed, at least partially, like a coil spring. In particular, the clamps allow for a detachable fastening, enabling a comparatively quick replacement of the energy storage device.

[0045] In another alternative configuration, for example, one of the terminals rests flat on one of the surfaces of the printed circuit board (PCB). This surface is, in particular, parallel to the reference plane. The terminal may be attached to the PCB at this point, for example, by soldering or welding. Alternatively, it may simply rest loosely on the surface. Specifically, the PCB has a conductive trace in the area where the terminal rests, so that the terminal is electrically connected to the PCB. Advantageously, the control unit includes a spring tongue that grips the terminal and rests, for example, against the terminal spaced apart from the PCB. Thus, the energy storage device is held securely to the PCB by the spring tongue. The spring tongue is preferably formed by a strip of sheet metal.

[0046] For example, the spring tongue is Z-shaped. In this configuration, one end of the spring tongue is attached to the circuit board, and the other end advantageously rests against one of the terminals. Alternatively, the metal strip is, for example, U-shaped or hat-shaped, and both free ends are attached to the circuit board, for example, detachably or permanently. In this case, the terminal spaced from the circuit board, preferably the entire body, is advantageously enclosed by the spring tongue, so that the energy storage device is held relatively securely. Alternatively, for example, a cable or the like is welded or soldered to the terminal spaced from the circuit board. In a further alternative, this terminal supports, for example, any additional component, which is advantageously supported / arranged on the inside of any housing, preferably a housing cover.Thus, when the lid is mounted to other components of the housing, i.e., when the housing is closed, the energy storage device is electrically connected.

[0047] For example, the circuit board to which the energy storage device is connected is the only circuit board, and any electrical and electronic components are expediently connected to it, thus forming a control unit or at least an electrical circuit. This preferably provides the individual functions of the control unit, in particular at least the control and / or regulation functions for any actuator. The circuit board is therefore the main circuit board, i.e., the one by which the main functions of the control unit are provided.

[0048] Alternatively, the control unit has an additional circuit board, which at least partially forms the control unit. The bridge circuit is attached to this additional circuit board, and / or at least some of the control unit's functions are performed via this circuit board. The circuit board to which the energy storage device is electrically connected is, however, connected to and electrically energized by the additional circuit board. Thus, this circuit board primarily serves to supply power to the additional circuit board. For example, the two circuit boards are soldered together, or one of the two circuit boards has a so-called edge connector into which the circuit board is inserted at its edge, or vice versa. This allows for replacement, and no tools are required for assembly. For example, only the energy storage device is connected to the circuit board.Alternatively, a charging circuit, diagnostic circuit, and / or interference suppression circuitry may also be present, at least partially formed by the printed circuit board and its connected components. Thus, the printed circuit board provides the functions required for the energy storage device. The other functions, particularly the control of the actuator, are handled by the additional printed circuit board. For example, the printed circuit board may be assigned only the energy storage device, or preferably, multiple energy storage devices. Therefore, the printed circuit board and the energy storage device(s) form a module that is, for example, adapted to the specific application and / or that can be replaced relatively easily and cost-effectively, for example, due to aging effects.Conveniently, the necessary housing is already present, and the two circuit boards are arranged within it. This reduces the number of components required.

[0049] The invention further relates to an electric door lock for a motor vehicle, which is expediently a passenger car. The electric door lock, which is also referred to simply as a door lock, is installed on a door of the motor vehicle, for example, a side door or a hatch such as a tailgate. Preferably, it is possible to lock the door of the motor vehicle by means of the electric door lock. The electric door lock has a latch or bolt driven by an actuator. The actuator is suitably an electric motor, and a spindle is arranged, for example, between the actuator and the latch / bolt. Alternatively, the bolt has, for example, teeth that engage with a gear mounted on a shaft of the electric motor.At least the actuator drives the bolt in a longitudinal direction, allowing it to engage with a counterpart that is fixed to the vehicle body. When the bolt is engaged with this counterpart, the door to which the door lock is assigned cannot be moved relative to the vehicle body.

[0050] Furthermore, the electric door lock includes a control unit that operates the actuator. The control unit comprises a circuit board arranged in a plane, to which an energy storage device with two terminals and a housing is connected and electrically contacted. For example, the control unit is designed solely to perform the functions required for the electric door lock. Alternatively, it is also possible to operate other actuators using the control unit, and the control unit is specifically a door control unit.

[0051] The electric door lock expediently comprises a latch and a locking pawl. To create a holding effect between the door and the vehicle body, the latch is adjustable along a geometric latch axis to an open position, to at least one closed position, in particular a main closed position, and to a pre-locked position between the open and main closed positions. The latch interacts with a locking element, preferably in the form of a strike plate, to hold the door in its respective closed position. The latch is located on the door, while the door is located on the vehicle body. This can also be arranged in reverse. To achieve the holding effect described above, the door lock includes the locking pawl. For example, the locking pawl, particularly in conjunction with the latch, forms the bolt / blade.In particular, the bolt / latch comprises the locking latch and / or the latch bolt. The counterpart is preferably formed by means of the locking element / bolt, or the counterpart comprises at least the locking element, or vice versa.

[0052] The invention further relates to a door with such an electric door lock and to a motor vehicle with such an electric door lock, which is expediently assigned to a door of the motor vehicle.

[0053] The further training and advantages explained in connection with the control unit can also be applied analogously to the electric door lock / the door / the motor vehicle and to each other and vice versa.

[0054] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1. Schematic side view of a motor vehicle with an electric door lock that has a control unit, Fig. 2 schematically in a top view a circuit board with two slots and an energy storage device of the control unit, Fig. 3 schematically in a sectional view an alternative of the control unit, wherein a mating connector is attached to the circuit board, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 schematically in a top view or a side view another variant of the control unit, wherein a stamped grid is attached to the circuit board, and Fig. 6 - 10 each in a schematic sectional view further alternatives of the control unit.

[0055] Corresponding parts are marked with the same reference symbols in all figures.

[0056] In Fig. Figure 1 schematically simplifies the representation of a motor vehicle 2 in the form of a passenger car. The motor vehicle 2 has several wheels 4, by means of which it makes contact with a road surface (not shown in detail), and which are connected to a body 6 by means of a chassis. A door 10 is pivotally mounted on the body 6 by means of a hinge 8.

[0057] The motor vehicle 2 also has an electric door lock 12, which is partially attached to the door 10. The electric door lock 12 prevents the door 10 from pivoting relative to the body 6 when it is locked. When unlocked, however, the door 10 is released and can pivot relative to the body 6.

[0058] For locking / unlocking, the electric door lock 12 includes a bolt 14, also referred to as a latch, which is longitudinally mounted on the door 10. The bolt 14 is a component of an actuator 16 of the electric door lock 12 and is driven by an electric motor 18 of the actuator 16, which is a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. When the electric motor 18 is energized, the bolt 14 is moved so that it either engages with a counterpart 20 or is released from it. The counterpart 20 forms a receptacle for the bolt 14 and is rigidly attached to the body 6. When the bolt 14 engages the counterpart 20, the electric door lock 12 is locked. When the electric motor 18 is energized in the opposite direction, the bolt 14 is released from the counterpart 20, so that they are movable relative to each other. In this case, the electric door lock 12 is open, which is also simply referred to as a door lock.

[0059] The electric motor 18 is powered by a control unit 22, which includes a bridge circuit (not shown) through which the electric motor 18 is energized. The control unit 22 regulates the electric motor 18 to a specific, predetermined direction of rotation and a specific speed. The control unit 22 is connected to the vehicle's electrical system 24, which is powered by a vehicle battery 26. The vehicle battery 26 provides a direct current voltage of 12 V.

[0060] The control unit 22 comprises an essentially rectangular circuit board 28, which is in Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view. The bridge circuit and other electrical and / or electronic components (not shown) are connected to the circuit board 28, which operate the electric motor 18. This motor is used to regulate the current and monitor its status. For this purpose, the components and the circuitry on the circuit board 28 read several sensors associated with the electric motor 18 and the latch 14. The control unit 22 also monitors whether an input device (not shown), such as a sensor or button, is being activated by a user. The electric motor 18 is then energized accordingly. In summary, the circuit board 28 and the connected components (i.e., the circuitry) form a control unit 30 for operating the actuator 16.The control unit 22, in particular the control unit 30, monitors the electrical voltage applied to the vehicle electrical system 24, on the basis of which the control unit 22 is operated in normal operation.

[0061] The control unit 22 also includes an energy storage device 32 in the form of a capacitor, specifically a supercapacitor. The energy storage device 32 is charged, or at least maintained, by means of the electrical voltage supplied via the vehicle electrical system 24, by means of a circuit (not shown) provided by the circuit board 28 and one of the components connected to it. If no electrical voltage is supplied by the vehicle electrical system 24, for example, because the vehicle battery 26 is completely discharged or damaged due to an accident, or because the vehicle electrical system 24 is disconnected or unintentionally interrupted, the energy storage device 32 is used to power the electric motor 18, thus moving the latch 14 out of engagement with its counterpart 20. The amount of energy stored by the energy storage device 32 is sufficient to operate the actuator 16 at least once.Thus, door 10 can be opened even if no electrical energy is supplied via the vehicle's electrical system 24.

[0062] The energy storage device 32 has a substantially cylindrical body 34 with a rounded end face. The body 34 comprises an energy storage housing, which forms the outer boundary of the body 34 and in which several storage elements are arranged, adapted to the physical design of the capacitor. The energy storage device 32 also includes two terminals 36, each formed by a wire that projects into the body 34 and is electrically contacted with the storage elements. Thus, the energy storage device 32 is a wired component. The electrical voltage provided by the energy storage device 32 is applied to the terminals 36, and the energy storage device 32 can be charged via the terminals 36. The two terminals 42 are located on a common end face of the body 34 and run parallel to each other and to the axis of the cylindrical body 34.

[0063] The body 34 of the energy storage device 32 is arranged in a substantially rectangular recess 38 of the printed circuit board 28, which is located in a reference plane 40. The recess 38 extends through the entire printed circuit board 28 and transitions into two parallel slots 42. The slots 42 are parallel to each other and extend through the printed circuit board 28. Each slot 42 also contains one of the terminals 36, which is welded to a conductor extending to the edge of the respective slot 42. Consequently, each of the wires forming the terminals 36 is welded into one of the slots 42 of the printed circuit board 28, which extend in the reference plane 40, and is thus fixed there. Therefore, the energy storage device 32 is connected to the printed circuit board 28 and electrically contacted with it.

[0064] In Fig. Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the control unit 22 in a sectional view perpendicular to the reference plane 40. Here, too, the circuit board 28 is still arranged in the reference plane 40, and the control unit 30 is at least partially formed by means of the circuit board 28. A mating connector 44 is attached to the surface of the circuit board 28, which has a connector body 46 made of plastic. The connector body 46 has a cup-shaped opening 48, the bottom of which is parallel to the reference plane 40. The bottom transitions into a rim of the cup-shaped opening 48, by means of which the body 34 of the energy storage device 32 is enclosed circumferentially, forming a clearance fit. The energy storage device 32 is unchanged compared to the previous embodiment and is still designed as a wired component.

[0065] The end face of the body 34, on which the terminals 36 are arranged, rests on the bottom of the cup-shaped opening 48, into which two sockets 50 of the mating connector 44 open, extending perpendicular to the reference plane 40. One of the terminals 36 is inserted into each of the sockets 50 and, for example, clamped there. Thus, the wires that form the terminals 36 are inserted into the sockets 50 of the mating connector 44, which is connected to the circuit board 28. The mating connector 44 is designed as a surface-mount component, and each of the sockets 50 is electrically contacted by one of the conductor tracks (not shown). Consequently, the energy storage device 32 is connected to the circuit board 28 and indirectly electrically contacted with the circuit board 28 via the mating connector 44.

[0066] In Fig. 4 is shown in a top view and in Fig. Figure 5 schematically shows another variant of the control unit 22 in a side view. Again, the printed circuit board 28, arranged in the reference plane 40, is present, and the control unit 30 is formed by means of this board. Two stamped grids 52 are attached to the printed circuit board 28 by means of press-fit connections (not shown in detail) and are electrically contacted with it. The two stamped grids 52 are oriented perpendicular to the reference plane 40 and arranged parallel to each other. The stamped grids 52, which are identical in construction, are essentially comb-like in design and, in the example shown, have three V-shaped slots 54 that terminate in a respective clamping contact 56, namely an insulation displacement contact.

[0067] In the illustrated example, three identical energy storage devices 32 are present, each with a cylindrical body 34. The terminals 36 are formed by wires, which are located on opposite end faces of the body 34. The two terminals 36 of each energy storage device 32 are assigned to different stamped grids 52 and are inserted into one of the clamping contacts 36, which are open perpendicular to the reference plane 40, and clamped there. Thus, the three energy storage devices are electrically connected in parallel, providing a comparatively large electrical capacitance. In summary, in this variant, the two stamped grids 52 are connected to the circuit board 28, by means of which the energy storage devices 32 are connected to the circuit board 28 and electrically contacted with it.In this process, three clamping contacts 56 are provided by means of the punched grids 52, into which one of the wires is clamped, by means of which one of the connections 36 of the respective energy storage device 32 is provided.

[0068] In Fig. Figure 6 shows another variant of the control unit 22 in a sectional view perpendicular to the reference plane 40, in which the circuit board 28 is located, by means of which the control unit 30 is still provided. The circuit board 28 has a substantially round opening 58 extending through it, through which one of the terminals 36 is guided, which is now designed like a bolt. This terminal 36 is arranged on one of the end faces of the cylindrical body 34 and parallel to the axis of the cylinder. An external thread is provided in this terminal 36, and a nut 60 is placed on the end passing through the circuit board 28 and screwed in place. Thus, the circuit board 28 is held in a force-fit connection between the nut 60 and the body 34. In summary, one of the terminals 36 of the energy storage device 32 is screwed to the circuit board 28.

[0069] On the side of the body 34 opposite the circuit board 28, the remaining connection 36 is arranged. This connection is flat and completely covers the end face of the body 34. It is parallel to the reference plane 40 and supported by another component (not shown) integrated into a cover 62 of the control unit housing 22. This component is connected to the circuit board 28 by means of lines (not shown), so that the electrical voltage supplied by the energy storage device 32 is also applied to the circuit board 28. However, when the cover 62 is removed, the electrical voltage is deactivated, so that the circuit board 28 is then, for example, de-energized, which facilitates maintenance.

[0070] In Fig. Figure 7 shows a section of the control unit 22, also in a sectional view perpendicular to the circuit board and reference plane 40, with the circuit board 28 again lying in reference plane 40. The control unit 30 is also provided by means of this circuit board. A metal plate 64 is now attached to one of the surfaces of the circuit board 28 using SMD technology. A bolt 65, extending perpendicular to reference plane 40, is provided by means of this plate. This bolt has a mating thread 66 in the form of an external thread. One of the terminals 36, which has a corresponding internal thread and is angled perpendicular to the axis of the body 34, is screwed to this bolt. The body 34 of the energy storage device 32 is not modified compared to the previous embodiment, nor is the remaining terminal 36. A conductor 68 is welded to this terminal, which is attached to the circuit board 28 at its end and electrically contacted there.Thus, the energy storage device 32 is screwed to and attached to the circuit board 28. Furthermore, the terminals 36 are electrically connected to the circuit board 28.

[0071] In Fig. Figure 8 shows a further embodiment of the control unit 22 in a sectional view perpendicular to the reference plane 40, in which the circuit board 28 is arranged. The control unit 30 is still provided by means of the circuit board 28. The energy storage device 32 is modified, but still has the body 34, which essentially corresponds to that of the previous embodiment. The planar connection 36 is unchanged, and the associated end face of the body 34 is covered by it. The remaining connection 36 is also designed in this way and covers the other end face of the body 34. Thus, the connections 36 are planar and are arranged on opposite sides, namely the opposite end faces, of the body 34 and connected there. In this way, the connections 36 completely cover the end faces and are flush with the edge of the body 32.

[0072] The axis of the cylindrical body 32 is arranged parallel to the reference plane 40, and the body 34 rests on the circuit board 28 or is at least partially gripped by a retaining structure 70, which has a corresponding receptacle within which the energy storage device 32 is located. The retaining structure 70, which is made of plastic, is attached to the circuit board 28 and is open on the side opposite the circuit board 28, thus allowing the insertion of the energy storage device 32.

[0073] One of the terminals 36 is supported by a spring tongue 72, which is arranged perpendicular to the reference plane 40 and within the holding structure 70, and is electrically contacted with one of the conductor tracks of the printed circuit board 28. The spring tongue 72 is formed by a strip of sheet metal. The opposite terminal 36 is electrically contacted with another conductor track of the printed circuit board 28 by a spiral spring 74, which runs parallel to the axis of the body 34, is made of metal, and is supported on the inside of the holding structure 70. Thus, the energy storage device 32 is held within the holding structure 70 by a force-fit connection.

[0074] In Fig. Figure 9 shows a further development of the control unit 22, also schematically depicted in a sectional view perpendicular to the reference plane 40, within which the printed circuit board 28 is arranged. Here again, the control unit 30 is provided by means of the printed circuit board 28. The energy storage device 32 still has the cylindrical body 34, the opposite end faces of which are completely covered by the two terminals 36, which are aligned with the edge of the body 32. However, here the axis of the body 34 is arranged perpendicular to the reference plane 40, and the extent of the body 34 along the axis is less than the diameter of the body 34. One of the terminals 36 lies flat on one of the surfaces of the printed circuit board 28 and is electrically contacted there with a conductor track of the printed circuit board 28 (not shown in detail).The spring tongue 72 is now bent into a hat shape, and its ends are attached to the circuit board 28 and rest on a conductor track (not shown). The energy storage device 32 is gripped by the spring tongue 72, which rests against the terminal 36 spaced apart from the circuit board 28. Thus, the energy storage device 32 is held against the circuit board 28 by the spring tongue 72. It is possible to release the energy storage device 32 from its grip by the spring tongue 72 parallel to the reference plane 40, so that it can be disassembled.

[0075] In Fig.Figure 10 shows another embodiment of the control unit 22. Here, too, the printed circuit board 28 is present, arranged parallel to the reference plane 40. The energy storage device 32, with its cylindrical body 34, is attached to the printed circuit board 28 and electrically connected to it. For this purpose, two terminals 36 are arranged on one of the two end faces and are formed by means of solder tabs or the like. The terminals 36 are surface-mounted and soldered to the printed circuit board 28, thus enabling automated manufacturing. Diagnostic and charging functions for the energy storage device 32 are provided by means of the printed circuit board 28 and the electrical and / or electronic components attached to it (not shown in detail).

[0076] The control unit 22 also has an additional circuit board 76, to which the bridge circuit (not shown) and the other electrical and / or electronic components required for providing the desired functions of the control unit 30 are connected and appropriately interconnected. In other words, the control unit 30 is now partially formed by means of the additional circuit board 76. Furthermore, a circuit board edge connector 78 is attached to the additional circuit board 76 and electrically contacted with conductor traces (not shown) of the additional circuit board 76. The circuit board 28 is inserted into the edge of the circuit board edge connector 78, so that it is electrically connected to the circuit board 76. Here, the circuit board 28 and the energy storage device 32 connected to it essentially only provide the emergency power supply for the control unit 30.The functions required for the normal operation of the actuator 16 are performed by means of the additional circuit board 76. In variants not shown in detail, one of the previously described configurations is used to attach the energy storage device 32 to the circuit board 28, with the circuit board 28 being attached to the additional circuit board 76. In these cases, however, the functions provided by the circuit board 28 are reduced compared to the previously described examples, as these are provided by means of the additional circuit board 78.

[0077] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, other variants of the invention can also be derived by a person skilled in the art without departing from the subject matter of the invention. In particular, all individual features described in connection with the individual embodiments can also be combined with one another in other ways without departing from the subject matter of the invention. Reference symbol list 2 motor vehicles 4-wheeler 6 Bodywork 8 hinge 10 Door 12 electric door lock 14 bars 16 Actuator 18 Electric motor 20 counterpart 22 Control unit 24 On-board electrical system 26 Motor vehicle battery 28 circuit boards 30 control unit 32 energy storage devices 34 bodies 36 connection 38 recess 40 Reference plane 42 slots 44 mating plugs 46 plug bodies 48 Opening 50 socket 52 punched grids 54 gap 56 terminal contacts 58 Opening 60 mother 62 lids 65 bolts 66 counter threads 68 Management 70 Support structure 72 spring tongue 74 spiral spring 76 more circuit boards 78 PCB edge connectors

Claims

[1] Control unit (22) for an electric door lock (12) of a motor vehicle (2), comprising a circuit board (28) arranged in a reference plane (40), to which an energy storage device (32) with two terminals (36) and a body (34) is attached and electrically contacted. [2] Control unit (22) according to claim 1, characterized by , that one of the connections (36) is welded to the circuit board (28). [3] Control unit (22) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the energy storage device (32) is designed as a wired component, and the connections (36) are each formed by means of a wire. [4] Control unit (22) according to claim 3, characterized by , that one of the wires is fixed in a slot (42) of the circuit board (28) extending in the reference plane (40). [5] Control unit (22) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by , that a clamping contact (56) is attached to the circuit board (28), into which one of the wires is clamped. [6] Control unit (22) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized by , that a mating connector (44) with two sockets (50) is attached to the circuit board (28), into which the wires are inserted. [7] Control unit (22) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that one of the connections (36) is screwed to the circuit board (28). [8] Control unit (22) according to claim 7, characterized by , that a sheet (64) with a mating thread (66) is attached to the circuit board (28), to which the connection (36) is screwed. [9] Control unit (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by , that a stamped grid (52) is attached to the circuit board (28), by means of which the energy storage device (32) is attached to the circuit board (28) and electrically contacted with it. [10] Control unit (22) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the connections (36) are designed to be flat and are arranged on opposite sides of the body (34). [11] Control unit (22) according to claim 10, characterized by , that one of the connections (36) rests flat on a surface of the circuit board (28). [12] Control unit (22) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by a further circuit board (76), by means of which a control unit (30) is partially formed, and to which the circuit board (28) is connected and electrically contacted.

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